Washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of improving drainage performance of a solid agent case for storing a solid agent.SOLUTION: A washing machine according to the present disclosure is a washing machine configured to allow a water-soluble solid formulation to be put therein, and includes a washing tub rotatably provided in a housing, a solid formulation case configured to accommodate the solid formulation, and a water supply path configured to supply water to the solid formulation case, wherein the solid formulation case includes an accommodation space including a solid formulation accommodation space configured to accommodate the solid formulation, and a drainage space partitioned from the accommodation space, including a space communicating with the accommodation space, and including a first drainage portion configured to drain water supplied to the solid formulation case.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10A

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 tablets to neutralize free chlorine in tap water.

[0003] The washing machine described in Patent Document 1 includes a rotating drum, a detergent case for introducing detergent into the rotating drum, and a tablet case provided in the detergent case for storing tablets for neutralizing free chlorine in tap water. The tablet case has holes formed therein, through which water is drained. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-272294 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, there is still room for improvement in terms of drainage performance of the solid medicine case that accommodates the solid medicine.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above-mentioned problems and to provide a washing machine that can improve the drainage performance of a solid medicine case that contains a solid medicine. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A washing machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a washing machine configured to be able to accept water-soluble solid agents, and includes a washing tub rotatably arranged within a housing, a solid agent case having a storage space for storing the solid agent, and a water supply path for supplying water to the solid agent case, wherein the solid agent case allows water to flow in through a water supply opening arranged above the storage space and allows water to flow out through a first drain section arranged below the water supply opening.

[0008] A washing machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a washing machine configured to be able to load water-soluble solid agents, and includes a washing tub rotatably arranged within a housing, a solid agent case for storing the solid agent, and a water supply path for supplying water to the solid agent case, wherein the solid agent case has a solid agent inlet provided at an upper part, a storage space for storing the solid agent, and a drainage space that is separated from the storage space and has a space communicating with the storage space, and in which a first drain section for draining water supplied to the solid agent case is formed, and the water supply path supplies water to the storage space through the solid agent inlet. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine capable of improving the drainage performance of a solid-medicine case that accommodates a solid medication can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [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] Perspective view of the manual insertion unit [Figure 6] Perspective view of the manual insertion unit [Figure 7] Perspective view of a pill case [Figure 8] A perspective view of a pill case in an open state. [Figure 9] Cross-section of a tablet case [Figure 10A]Cross-section of a tablet case [Figure 10B] Cross-section of a tablet case [Figure 11A] Cross section of manual feeding unit [Figure 11B] Cross section of manual feeding unit [Figure 12A] Perspective view of a tablet [Figure 12B] Perspective view of a tablet [Figure 13] Top view of detergent supply unit [Figure 14] Cross-sectional view of detergent supply unit [Figure 15] Enlarged perspective view of the water supply section [Figure 16A] Cross-sectional view of detergent supply unit [Figure 16B] Enlarged view of the pill case in Figure 16A [Figure 16C] Cross-sectional view of detergent supply unit [Figure 17] Schematic diagram of a tablet case according to Modification 1 [Figure 18] Schematic diagram of a tablet case according to Modification 2 [Figure 19] Schematic diagram of a washing machine according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] Perspective view of a detergent supply unit [Figure 21] Perspective view of the manual insertion unit [Figure 22] Perspective view of a pill case DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors arrived at the present disclosure, water-soluble solid agents containing sodium dichloroisocyanurate were known as technology for disinfectants for cleaning bathtubs. Inspired by the technology of 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 loaded and the components of the solid agent are applied to laundry. The inventors then discovered a problem: when a solid agent case for housing the solid agent is configured compactly, it is difficult to completely dissolve the solid agent while preventing water from overflowing from the solid agent case. Furthermore, they discovered a problem: when the portion of the solid agent case for housing the solid agent is configured large relative to the size of the solid agent, it is difficult to completely dissolve the fragments of the solid agent that have dissolved in water and become smaller. The subject matter of the present disclosure was created to solve these problems.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) Washing machine 51 according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure will be described. Washing machine 51 according to embodiment 1 is a washing machine with a drying function.

[0013] [Overall configuration] 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine 51 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 51 includes a housing 2, a water tub 3, a washing tub 4, a detergent supply unit 55, a drying device 58, and a control unit C.

[0014] <Case> Housing 2 is a member that forms the exterior of washing machine 51. An opening 20 and a door 21 that covers opening 20 and can be opened and closed freely are provided on the top surface of housing 2.

[0015] <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.

[0016] <Washing tub> The washing tub 4 is a roughly cylindrical member that is rotatably provided inside the water tub 3 and that accommodates laundry such as clothes. The washing tub 4 has a number of through-holes (not shown) that communicate with the water tub 3. The through-holes allow the movement of wash water and detergent between the water tub 3 and the washing tub 4. The washing tub 4 may also be called a drum or an inner tub.

[0017] <Laundry agent supply unit> The laundry agent supply unit 55 is a unit that supplies laundry treatment agents such as liquid agents, powder detergents, and solid agents to the washing tub 4. Supplying a laundry treatment agent means discharging it downward toward the washing tub 4. The liquid agent is a liquid agent used to wash laundry such as clothes. The liquid agent may include a detergent, a fabric softener, and a neutral detergent.

[0018] The detergent supply unit 55 includes a manual supply unit 56 and an automatic supply unit 7.

[0019] <Drying equipment> Drying device 58 is a mechanism for circulating drying air in washing tub 4. In order to form a closed air circulation path between drying device 58 and washing tub 4, washing machine 51 has lid 52 that covers the open tops of washing tub 4 and water tub 3. Lid 52 may seal the open tops of washing tub 4 and water tub 3.

[0020] <Control unit> Control unit C is a component that controls the operation of washing machine 51. 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.

[0021] Next, the configuration of the detergent supply unit 55 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views of the detergent supply unit 55.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2, 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. 3).

[0023] 3, the unit case 100 is a member that houses the manual feeding unit 56, the automatic feeding unit 7, and a flow path member 101. The top of the unit case 100 is open and is covered with a lid 100a.

[0024] Manual dosing unit 56 is a mechanism that allows the user to manually dosing a single dose of laundry agent, such as a liquid agent, powder detergent, or solid agent, every time washing machine 51 is operated. The laundry agent dosed into manual dosing unit 56 is supplied to washing tub 4 in the amount that has been dosed.

[0025] The laundry agent for one dose dispensed into the manual dispenser unit 56 is contained in a plurality of cases 110, 111, 112, and 113 formed by the manual dispenser unit 56. In the first embodiment, the cases 110, 111, 112, and 113 respectively contain a fabric softener, a liquid bleach, a powder detergent, and a water-soluble solid agent (e.g., a tablet) for one dose.

[0026] 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 supplies an appropriate amount of an appropriate type of liquid agent to 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 (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.

[0027] The water supply member 10 is a mechanism that supplies water to the detergent supply unit 55 via a flow path member 101. The water supply member 10 is composed of a plurality of water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c (only water supply valve 10a is shown), 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 cases 111 and 112; when the water supply valve 10b is opened, water is supplied to cases 110 and 113; 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.

[0028] Flow path member 101 is a member that guides water supplied from water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c to the supply destinations. Flow path member 101 is connected to water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c, and is provided above cases 110, 111, 112, and 113. More specifically, flow path member 101 forms multiple independent paths that connect water supply valves 10a, 10b, and 10c to the supply destinations.

[0029] The water supplied to the cases 110, 111, 112, and 113 of the manual feeding unit 56 flows into the washing tub 4 together with the detergent contained therein.

[0030] Next, the configuration of the manual insertion unit 56 will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 3 to 6. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the manual insertion unit 56. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the manual insertion unit 56 with the case 113 and the flow path members 115 and 116 removed. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the manual insertion unit 56.

[0031] 3, the manual insertion unit 56 includes a main body 114. The main body 114 is a member held in the unit case 100 so as to be able to be pulled out in the front-rear direction L.

[0032] 4, 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 detachable manner.

[0033] 5, main body 114 forms cases 110, 111, and 112. As described above, case 110 (hereinafter, fabric softener case 110) contains fabric softener, case 111 (hereinafter, bleach case 111) contains liquid bleach, and case 112 (hereinafter, powder detergent case 112) contains powder detergent.

[0034] In the main body 114, the fabric softener case 110 and the bleach case 111 are arranged side by side in the width direction K. The powder detergent case 112 has an input space 117 formed on the front side L1 of the cases 110 and 111, and a flow path 118 extending between the fabric softener case 110 and the bleach case 111. The flow path 118 is in communication with the input space 117. The flow path 118 extends from a connection position with the input space 117 toward the rear side L2 to an outlet 119 (FIG. 11A), and has an outlet (not shown) at its lower end that is in communication with the washing tub 4. The flow path 118 is defined by the outer walls of the fabric softener case 110, the outer walls of the bleach case 111, and the bottom surface of the main body 114 (inclined surface 118b shown in FIG. 6).

[0035] The upper portions of the cases 110 and 111 form input ports 110a and 111a, and the upper portion of the input space 117 forms an input port 117a.

[0036] The upper part of the flow path 118 is also open, and the tablet case 113 is placed above the flow path 118. That is, the tablet case 113 is placed between the cases 110 and 111.

[0037] An insertion port 113a is formed at the top of the tablet case 113, and tablets J (FIG. 4) are inserted into the insertion port 113a. When the tablet case 113 is placed in the main body 114, the insertion port 113a is located between the insertion ports 110a and 111a which are aligned in the width direction K.

[0038] 6, the bleach case 111 has a storage space 78 that stores liquid bleach, 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 bleach case 111, 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 a discharge opening 74b formed in the bottom surface 78a of the storage space 78.

[0039] 5, the fabric softener case 110 has a storage space 77 for storing fabric softener, 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.

[0040] Flow path members 115, 116 are arranged to cover liquid agent discharge flow paths 73, 74 of cases 110, 111, respectively. When flow path members 115, 116 cover liquid agent discharge flow paths 73, 74, a flow path is formed between flow path members 115, 116 and liquid agent discharge flow paths 73, 74. With this structure, when the liquid level in cases 110, 111 exceeds a predetermined height, water and liquid agent can exceed the apex of liquid agent discharge flow paths 73, 74 and flow out of cases 110, 111. In other words, by opening water supply valve 10a or water supply valve 10b and supplying water to case 110 or case 111, the detergent or fabric softener will not flow out of cases 110, 111 but can be retained in cases 110, 111 until the liquid level exceeds a predetermined height. Furthermore, even after the water supply valve 10a is closed to stop the water supply, the solution and water in the bleach case 111 are discharged from the discharge opening 74b due to the siphon effect in the flow path between the flow path member 116 and the solution discharge flow path 74. This prevents water from remaining in the bleach case 111. The same applies to the fabric softener case 110.

[0041] The tablet case 113 is a component that contains a water-soluble solid agent used in one sterilization washing course. The solid agent is a solid that is solid or hollow. For example, the solid agent is a solid formed from compressed 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] In the first embodiment, tablet J contains sodium dichloroisocyanurate as a disinfecting component. Regarding the constituent materials of tablet J, tablet J may contain other components that generate hypochlorous acid. Tablet J may further contain a component that reacts with water to produce foam.

[0044] Regarding the shape of the tablet J, the tablet J may have a shape that allows it to be moved to a predetermined position in the tablet case 113, 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. 12A and 12B) with a diameter D0 greater than a thickness T0.

[0045] The tablets J placed in tablet case 113 may be specific tablets J intended for use by the manufacturer of washing machine 51. For example, the tablets J are one or more specified types of tablets J. Also, for example, the types of tablets J are types selected from a catalog or list stored in control unit C.

[0046] 6, the tablet case 113 is fixed by being hooked onto the side walls of the cases 110 and 111 that define the flow path 118. Specifically, the tablet case 113 has hook portions 122 that protrude in the width direction K and are hooked onto the upper portions of the side walls of the cases 110 and 111.

[0047] Next, the tablet case 113 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 7 to 11B. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the tablet case 113. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the tablet case 113 in an open state. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the tablet case 113 along the width direction K. Figure 10A is a cross-sectional view of the tablet case 113 along the front-rear direction L. Figure 10B is a cross-sectional view of the tablet case 113 in the drainage space R12 along the width direction K. Figure 11A is a cross-sectional view of the manual feeding unit 56 along the front-rear direction L. Figure 11B is a cross-sectional view of the manual feeding unit 56 along the width direction K.

[0048] As shown in Figures 7 and 8, tablet case 113 is an openable and closable member and has a first side wall 140 and a second side wall 142. First side wall 140 and second side wall 142 are connected to each other by a rotation axis X. The position of tablet case 113 can be changed between a position in which first side wall 140 and second side wall 142 face each other (Figure 7) and a position in which first side wall 140 and second side wall 142 are aligned with each other (Figure 8). Specifically, second side wall 142 can rotate around rotation axis X along peripheral wall 141 (see arrow G). By rotating second side wall 142 to release the opposing state, the inner wall of tablet case 113 can be more easily accessed, making it easier to clean and maintain the inner wall of tablet case 113.

[0049] 8, the first side wall 140 forms a mesh 132a penetrating in the thickness direction (width direction K), and the second side wall 142 forms a mesh 132c penetrating in the thickness direction (width direction K). The dissolved tablet J flows out from the meshes 132a and 132c together with water and is supplied to the washing tub 4.

[0050] The first side wall 140 further defines a mesh 132b on the front side L1 of the mesh 132a.

[0051] The first side wall 140 is provided with a peripheral wall 141 and a narrowed portion 137. The second side wall 142 is provided with the narrowed portion 137, a holding portion 138, and a water-removing portion 81.

[0052] The peripheral wall 141 is connected to the outer periphery of the first side wall 140 and forms a front surface 139 of the tablet case 113 and a bottom wall portion 136 extending in the front-to-rear direction L (horizontally). The bottom wall portion 136 below the insertion port 113a forms a water supply position K2 that supports the inserted tablet J.

[0053] Here, the water supply position K2 is the position on the bottom wall portion 136 where the tablet J is placed when water is being supplied. Therefore, the water supply position K2 is larger than the outer shape of the tablet J. Specifically, the dimension of the water supply position K2 in the front-rear direction L (corresponding to the dimension D4 of the storage space R11 described below) is larger than the diameter D0 of the tablet J ( FIG. 10A ). The water supply position K2 may be a position where the tablet J is expected to reach after being added. The water supply position K2 is an area having a vertically elongated shape that is long in the front-rear direction L in a plan view. The water supply nozzles 12 and 13 of the flow path member 101 are formed above the water supply position K2. The water supply position K2 may be provided directly below the water supply nozzles 12 and 13.

[0054] The front surface 139 and the bottom wall portion 136 are smoothly connected at the peripheral wall 141. The corner between the front surface 139 and the bottom wall portion 136 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 remaining undissolved tablet J can be suppressed.

[0055] Narrowed portion 137 is a wall portion that protrudes in the width direction K from the inner wall of side walls 140, 142 toward the opposing side wall. Narrowed portion 137 prevents tablets J and large fragments generated from tablets J from leaving water supply position K2 and flowing into the depths of tablet case 113. Large fragments refer to fragments that are large enough to be unable to pass through meshes 132a, 132c and block meshes 132a, 132c. This structure prevents large fragments from adhering to meshes 132a, 132c, thereby maintaining the drainage properties of meshes 132a, 132c.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 9, the narrowed portion 137 provided in the first side wall 140 and the narrowed portion 137 provided in the second side wall 142 have a gap R4 in the width direction K. The gap R4 becomes smaller in the direction approaching the bottom wall portion 136. Therefore, the structure of the narrowed portion 137 can more reliably restrict the passage of broken pieces of a large and heavy tablet J.

[0057] 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 narrower than the gap R4, the tablet J can be prevented from moving away from the water supply position K2.

[0058] 10A, the holding portion 138 and the narrowing portion 137 together have the function of storing the tablet J at the water supply position K2. The holding portion 138 and the narrowing portion 137 store the tablet J in a fixed space by restricting the movement of the tablet J. The holding portion 138 and the narrowing portion 137 have the function of separating the storage space R11 in which the tablet J is stored from the drainage space R12 in which the entry of the tablet J is restricted.

[0059] The holding portion 138 is spaced upward from the bottom wall portion 136, and a gap R3 is provided between the holding portion 138 and the bottom wall portion 136. Therefore, the storage space R11 and the drainage space R12 also communicate through the gap R3 below the holding portion 138. By providing the gap R3, when the water level is low, water supplied to the water supply position K2 can flow into the drainage space R12. While restricting the entry of tablets J into the drainage space R12, the flow of water into the drainage space R12 is promoted, and the water is drained through the meshes 132a and 132c.

[0060] The storage space R11 and the drain space R12 are also in communication with each other above the holding portion 138. Therefore, when the water level becomes high, the inflow of water into the drain space R12 is further promoted while restricting the tablet J from entering the drain space R12, and more water is drained through the meshes 132a and 132c.

[0061] The water flowing into the drain space R12 contains the dissolved tablets J. In this case, the storage space R11 is a space for storing and dissolving the tablets J, and the drain space R12 is a space for discharging the tablets J dissolved in the storage space R11 through the meshes 132a and 132c.

[0062] Here, focusing on the fact that the space where drainage mainly occurs is the drainage space R12, the drainage space R12 is the space where the meshes 132a and 132c are formed, while the storage space R11 is the space where the mesh 132b is formed.

[0063] The meshes 132a and 132c are formed on substantially the entire surfaces of the side walls 140 and 142 in the drainage space R12. The area of ​​the mesh 132a may be 60% or more and 90% or less of the area of ​​the first side wall 140 in the drainage space R12, and the area of ​​the mesh 132c may be 60% or more and 90% or less of the area of ​​the second side wall 142 in the drainage space R12. The side walls 140 and 142, together with the meshes 132a and 132c, have reinforcing parts 144 that maintain the strength of the tablet case 113.

[0064] The mesh 132b is formed only on a portion of the first side wall 140 in the storage space R11. For example, the mesh 132b is formed only on the lower part of the first side wall 140. The area of ​​the mesh 132b may be 10% or more and 50% or less of the area of ​​the first side wall 140 in the storage space R11. Furthermore, the area of ​​the mesh 132b is smaller than the area of ​​the mesh 132a or the mesh 132c. For example, the area of ​​the mesh 132b is 25% or less of the area of ​​the mesh 132a or the mesh 132c. The opening area of ​​the mesh 132b may be smaller than the opening area of ​​the mesh 132a or the mesh 132c.

[0065] The height of the apex of the mesh 132b from the bottom wall portion 136 toward the insertion port 113a is formed to be lower than the apex of the mesh 132a or the mesh 132c. The height of the apex of the mesh 132b may be formed to be equal to or less than half the diameter D0 of the tablet J.

[0066] In the storage space R11, mesh 132b is formed only on the first side wall 140, so water tends to collect in the storage space R11. This structure makes it easier for the tablets J to dissolve. Meanwhile, in the drainage space R12, meshes 132a, 132c are formed on each of the side walls 140, 142. This structure allows water to be drained from both side walls 140, 142, preventing water from overflowing from the insertion port 113a of the tablet case 113. Furthermore, by ensuring a drainage path through the drainage space R12, residual water in the storage space R11 can be reduced.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 10B, the meshes 132a and 132c of the side walls 140 and 142 are inclined relative to the vertical. The meshes 132a and 132c of the side walls 140 and 142 form a V-shaped cross section, with the distance between the mesh 132a of the first side wall 140 and the mesh 132c of the second side wall 142 narrowing downward. With this structure, in addition to the narrowed portion 137, the meshes 132a and 132c themselves also function as narrowed portions, preventing the tablet J from entering the drainage space R12. The inclination angle of the meshes 132a and 132c may be equal to the inclination angle of the narrowed portion 137.

[0068] On the outside of tablet case 113, mesh 132a faces outer wall 110c of fabric softener case 110, and mesh 132c faces outer wall 111c of bleach case 111. A gap R4 is formed in the width direction K between mesh 132a and outer wall 110c, and a gap R6 is formed in the width direction K between mesh 132c and outer wall 111c. Water is drained from tablet case 113 through gaps R4 and R6. Due to the inclination of meshes 132a and 132c, gaps R4 and R6 increase downward. Therefore, the drainage properties of meshes 132a and 132c can be ensured even in the lower part of tablet case 113, where many fragments of tablets J accumulate.

[0069] The mesh 132b is provided vertically and is in contact with the outer wall 110c of the fabric softener case 110 (FIG. 16A). The mesh 132b is spaced apart from the outer wall 111c of the bleach case 111.

[0070] The difference between the storage space R11 and the drain space R12 will be explained from another perspective. As shown in Fig. 10A, when attention is paid to the fact that the space into which the tablet J is inserted is the storage space R11, the space formed directly below the insertion port 113a is the storage space R11, and the space offset from the insertion port 113a is the drain space R12. A part of the drain space R12 faces the insertion port 113a.

[0071] The insertion port 113a is formed to extend in the front-rear direction L from the front surface 139 of the tablet case 113. The insertion port 113a may have a vertically elongated shape when viewed from above, that is, the width D2 (FIG. 9) of the insertion port 113a may be smaller than the length D3 of the insertion port 113a in the front-rear direction L. Therefore, the storage space R11 may also have a vertically elongated shape when viewed from above.

[0072] The dimension D4 of the storage space R11 in the front-to-rear direction L is smaller than and approximately equal to the dimension D3 of the insertion port 113a in the front-to-rear direction L. The dimension D4 of the storage space R11 in the front-to-rear direction L may be 0.7 to 1.2 times the dimension D3.

[0073] The dimension D6 of the drainage space R12 in the front-to-rear direction L is larger than the dimension D4 of the storage space R11 in the front-to-rear direction L. For example, the dimension D6 is greater than or equal to 1 time and less than or equal to 3 times the dimension D4. In addition, the volume of the drainage space R12 may be larger than the volume of the storage space R11.

[0074] A dimension D4 in the front-rear direction L of the storage space R11 is approximately equal to a vertical dimension D5 of the tablet case 113. Dimension D5 is the vertical distance from the bottom wall 136 to the insertion port 113a. With this structure, the tablet case 113 can be made more space-saving.

[0075] Returning to FIG. 7, the first side wall 140 has a hook portion 122 that hooks onto the edge of the insertion opening 110a of the case 110, and the second side wall 142 has a hook portion 122 that hooks onto the edge of the insertion opening 111a of the case 111. By hooking the hook portion 122 onto the cases 110, 111, the tablet case 113 is supported by the main body portion 114 (FIG. 6). The hook portion 122 has a restricting portion 123 that protrudes further in the width direction K than the hook portion 122. The restricting portion 123 partially covers the insertion openings 110a, 111a of the cases 110, 111 (FIG. 6). The restricting portion 123 forms an edge 124 that faces in the front-rear direction L so as to prevent a tablet J that has been mistakenly inserted into the case 110 from moving toward the rear side L2.

[0076] 11A, when hook portion 122 is hooked onto cases 110 and 111 and tablet case 113 is placed in main body 114, tablet case 113 is positioned above the bottom surface of flow path 118. Flow path 118 is a flow path for discharging powder detergent and tablets J from discharge port 119 and supplying them to washing tub 4, i.e., a non-liquid agent supply flow path. When tablet case 113 is housed in main body 114, storage space R11 is located on the front side L1 of drainage space R12, i.e., closer to input space 117 than drainage space R12.

[0077] The bottom surface of the flow path 118 is configured with an inclined surface 118b that is inclined downward relative to the horizontal toward the rear side L2. In the first embodiment, the inclined surface 118b is inclined downward toward the rear side L2 with respect to the bottom wall portion 136 that extends horizontally in a straight line. The inclination angle of the inclined surface 118b may be constant or may change along the way of the inclined surface 118b.

[0078] The bottom wall 136 of the tablet case 113 is disposed over its entire surface above the inclined surface 118b with a distance D1 therebetween. The distance D1 is the vertical distance between the bottom wall 136 of the tablet case 113 and the inclined surface 118b. Because the inclined surface 118b is inclined relative to the bottom wall 136, the distance D1 gradually increases toward the rear side L2. In other words, the distance between the bottom wall 136 and the inclined surface 118b increases as the distance approaches the rear side L2.

[0079] Here, the bottom wall portion 136 does not include the curved corner portion that forms the lower end of the front surface 139 of the tablet case 113 .

[0080] Distance D1 is smallest at front surface 139 of tablet case 113 located near connection part P between input space 117 and flow path 118. Considering that water flows from input space 117 to flow path 118, distance D1 is smallest at the inlet of flow path 118 located at connection part P. Connection part P is a part where input space 117 and flow path 118 are connected to each other, and is, for example, a part where the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path is narrower than that of input space 117. Downstream from connection part P, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow path may be approximately constant up to outlet 119.

[0081] When water is supplied to the input space 117, the water level S1 rises (see arrow V1). If the amount of water supplied is large, the water level S1 becomes higher than the front surface 139 of the tablet case 113.

[0082] A water separator 81 is provided on the front side L1 of the front surface 139 of the tablet case 113. The water separator 81 is a plate-like member that faces the flow from the input space 117 toward the flow path 118. Therefore, the water separator 81 prevents water from directly hitting the front surface 139 of the tablet case 113, and can prevent water from flowing into the tablet case 113.

[0083] Water removal portion 81 is inclined relative to the vertical. Water removal portion 81 is inclined so as to push lower end 81a of water removal portion 81 from front surface 139 toward front side L1. By moving lower end 81a of water removal portion 81 away from front surface 139, water can be kept away from bottom wall portion 136 of tablet case 113. Therefore, water is less likely to flow into the interior of tablet case 113 through mesh 132b formed near bottom wall portion 136.

[0084] Lower end 81a of water removing portion 81 is located at a height lower than front surface 139. In the first embodiment, lower end 81a of water removing portion 81 is located at a height lower than bottom wall 136. Furthermore, the height dimension between water removing portion 81 and inclined surface 118b is smaller than the height dimension between bottom wall 136 and inclined surface 118b. Therefore, when water hits water removing portion 81, the height of water level S1 downstream of water removing portion 81 is limited to a height lower than lower end 81a. This structure can further prevent water from hitting tablet case 113 and flowing in.

[0085] As shown in Figure 11B, water separator 81 covers front surface 139 (Figure 11A) of tablet case 113. Width W1 of water separator 81 is larger than width W2 of the inlet of flow path 118 located at connection part P. This structure makes it possible to prevent water in input space 117 from flowing around from both sides of water separator 81 and into tablet case 113.

[0086] The tablet case 113 has a restricting portion 121 that protrudes downward near a connection part P (FIG. 11A) between the insertion space 117 and the flow path 118. The restricting portion 121 extends intersecting the direction from the insertion space 117 toward the flow path 118 so as to prevent a tablet J that has been mistakenly inserted into the insertion space 117 from entering the flow path 118. In other words, the restricting portion 121 has the function of reducing the opening area of ​​the entrance of the flow path 118. In the first embodiment, the distance from the lower end of the restricting portion 121 to the inclined surface 118b of the flow path 118 is smaller than the diameter D0 of the tablet J.

[0087] The width W3 of the restricting portion 121 is smaller than the width W2 of the flow path 118. With this configuration, it is possible to restrict the entry of the tablet J into the flow path 118 while preventing the inflow of water into the flow path 118 from being excessively restricted.

[0088] The water removal section 81 may indicate that the insertion port 113a is an opening for inserting the tablets J. For example, the words "insert tablets" may be printed on the water removal section 81.

[0089] Side walls 140, 142 each have gripping portions 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 portions 113b and lift tablet case 113. In the first embodiment, linearly extending protrusions 113c are formed on the side surfaces of gripping portion 113b so that the user can easily recognize that gripping portion 113b is a member that can be grasped. Grip portion 113b may have a pattern different from that of protrusions 113c.

[0090] As shown in Figures 12A and 12B, tablet J has a disk shape with a diameter D0 and a thickness T0. Figure 12A shows tablet J placed vertically with its thickness direction perpendicular to the input direction A2. Figure 12B shows tablet J placed horizontally with its thickness direction parallel to the input direction A2.

[0091] The vertically placed position is a position in which the vertical dimension is larger than the dimension in the short direction (for example, thickness direction) of the tablet J in a horizontal cross section. In order to store a vertically placed tablet J in the storage space R11, the vertical dimension D5 (FIG. 10A) of the tablet case 113 is larger than the width D2 (FIG. 9) in the width direction K, and the dimension D4 (FIG. 10A) of the storage space R11 in the front-rear direction L is also larger than the width D2 in the width direction K. Since the dimension D4 in the front-rear direction L of the storage space R11 is approximately equal to the vertical dimension D5 of the tablet case 113, the vertically placed tablet J can be stored in the storage space R11 while making effective use of space. Furthermore, the vertically placed position is a position in which the movable contour is in contact with the placement surface. In the first 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.

[0092] In the first embodiment, the width D2 of the insertion port 113a 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 113a is larger than the diameter D0 of the tablet J. Therefore, the tablet J passes through the insertion port 113a in a vertically placed position. In other words, it is difficult for the tablet J to pass through the insertion port 113a in a horizontally placed position.

[0093] 10A, meshes 132a, 132b, and 132c are configured with ribs 82 and 83 extending in two intersecting directions. In the first embodiment, meshes 132a, 132b, and 132c are configured with a plurality of ribs 82 extending in the horizontal direction (front-rear direction L) and a plurality of ribs 83 extending in the vertical direction.

[0094] In the meshes 132a, 132b, 132c, the ribs 82 (FIG. 8) extending laterally form the inner wall of the tablet case 113, and the ribs 83 (FIG. 7) extending vertically form the outer wall of the tablet case 113.

[0095] Here, the supply of water to the tablet J will be described.

[0096] When a vertically placed tablet J is inserted into the insertion port 113a, the tablet J falls downward to reach the water supply position K2 and is held at the water supply position K2 by the holding part 138. The tablet J is dissolved by water supplied from the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 (FIG. 8).

[0097] FIG. 13 is a top view of the laundry agent supply unit 55 with the lid 100a removed. As shown in FIG. 13, the water supply valves 10a and 10b (FIG. 3) of the water supply member 10 are connected to the paths F1 and F2 of the flow path member 101, respectively. The paths F1 and F2 are formed independently of each other. The path F1 connected to the water supply valve 10a forms a path for supplying water to the bleach case 111 and the powder detergent case 112. The path F2 connected to the water supply valve 10b forms a path for supplying water to the fabric softener case 110 and the tablet case 113. 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.

[0098] Path F2 may supply water to powder detergent case 112 in addition to fabric softener case 110 and tablet case 113.

[0099] Path F2 forms opening 14 facing tablet case 113, multiple openings 15 facing fabric softener case 110, and opening 16 facing powder detergent case 112. When water supply valve 10a is opened and communicates with path F2 (see arrow B), water flows into tablet case 113 through opening 14 and into fabric softener case 110 through opening 15. Meanwhile, water that exceeds openings 14 and 15 then flows into powder detergent case 112 through opening 16.

[0100] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the detergent supply unit 55. As shown in Fig. 14, above the water supply position K2 and the inlet 113a, a water supply nozzle 12 and a water supply nozzle 13 are provided, extending downward from different openings 14, respectively. The water supply nozzles 12 and 13 form a flow path therein, and water is discharged into the tablet case 113 through the water supply nozzles 12 and 13. Therefore, water is supplied to the tablet case 113 through the inlet 113a.

[0101] In such a structure, the insertion port 113a is used for supplying water in addition to inserting the tablets J. The opening area at the top of the tablet case 113 can be made small.

[0102] The water supply nozzles 12, 13 are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction L and are provided above the water supply position K2. More specifically, the water supply nozzles 12, 13 are provided at positions facing the water supply position K2.

[0103] Figure 15 is an enlarged perspective view of water supply nozzles 12, 13. As shown in Figure 15, water supply nozzles 12, 13 have a similar shape, and discharge openings 24, 25 for discharging water are formed at the bottom end of each. Discharge openings 24, 25 are inclined in a direction deviated from directly below. Discharge opening 24 is inclined in the opposite direction to discharge opening 25. Therefore, water is discharged from each of water supply nozzles 12, 13 in the inclined direction opposite to the direction in which it is inclined.

[0104] Figure 16A is a cross-sectional view of the manual feeding unit 56 taken along the width direction K passing through the storage space R11. Figure 16B is an enlarged view of the tablet case 113 in Figure 16A. Figure 16C is a cross-sectional view of the manual feeding unit 56 taken along the width direction K passing through the drainage space R12.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 16A, the water discharged from the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 hits the side surface of the tablet J.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 16B, water discharged from water supply nozzles 12 and 13 collides with side walls 140 and 142 along arrows B1 and B2, respectively, and then flows downward along the wall surfaces. Colliding with side walls 140 and 142 reduces the flow rate of the water. Because the water first collides with side walls 140 and 142 and then indirectly hits the side of tablet J, the flow rate and force of the water hitting tablet J can be reduced compared to when water hits tablet J directly from water supply nozzles 12 and 13. This water supply method can prevent tablet J fragments from scattering due to water supply. Tablet J is dissolved by the water supply, and the water containing the dissolved tablet J is discharged through mesh 132b or flows into drainage space R12 (FIG. 16C).

[0107] 14, the water discharged from the mesh 132b flows into the flow path 118 and flows along the inclined surface 118b toward the rear side L2. A gap D11 is formed between the bottom wall portion 136 of the storage space R11 and the inclined surface 118b.

[0108] At the same time that water is supplied to the tablet case 113, water is also supplied to the fabric softener case 110. Therefore, the liquid level in the containing space 77 rises.

[0109] 16B, since the tablet case 113 is provided so as to be removable, a small gap is formed between the softener case 110 and the hook portion 122 of the tablet case 113. Therefore, when the liquid level rises, there is a possibility that water will flow from the softener case 110, through under the hook portion 122, into the flow path 118 and the tablet case 113 due to capillary action.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 16A, a notch 145 that functions as an overflow structure is provided at the top of the back surface 110d of the softener case 110. The notch 145 is a structure for discharging water out of the softener case 110 before the liquid level reaches the top of the softener case 110. Specifically, the notch 145 is a recess in which part of the upper edge of the back surface 110d is recessed downward. With this structure, even if the liquid level in the storage space 77 rises, the water is discharged from the notch 145 to the outside of the softener case 110 before flowing into the flow path 118. This makes it possible to prevent water from flowing from the softener case 110 into the tablet case 113. Instead of or in addition to the back surface 110d, the notch 145 may be provided on a side surface away from the tablet case 113.

[0111] At the same time that water is supplied to the tablet case 113, water is also supplied to the powder detergent case 112. Therefore, the liquid level in the flow path 118 rises.

[0112] Returning to Figure 14, when water is supplied to powder detergent case 112, the water flows into input space 117 and then flows from input space 117 into flow path 118. Therefore, even if the liquid level S1 in input space 117 rises, the water attempting to flow into flow path 118 hits water separator 81 and flows into flow path 118 from below water separator 81. Due to the arrangement of water separator 81, the height of liquid level S1 in flow path 118 is limited to be lower than the height of lower end 81a of water separator 81.

[0113] Water is also supplied to the bleach case 111 at a timing different from the timing at which water is supplied to the tablets J. Therefore, the liquid level in the containing space 78 rises.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 16A, a notch 146 is provided at the top of the back surface 111d of the bleach case 111, similar to the fabric softener case 110. This prevents water from flowing from the bleach case 111 into the tablet case 113. Furthermore, mesh 132b is formed only on the second side wall 142 facing the bleach case 111 and the first side wall 140 opposite it. This makes it difficult for water to pass through the second side wall 142 in the storage space R11 and enter the tablet case 113. This prevents water from flowing from the bleach case 111 into the storage space R11 and coming into contact with the tablets J, further preventing the tablets J from starting to dissolve at a time when water supply to the tablets J is not planned.

[0115] As shown in Figure 16C, water that has flowed from the storage space R11 into the drainage space R12 is discharged through the meshes 132a, 132c and flows into the flow path 118. A distance D12 is formed between the bottom wall 136 of the drainage space R12 and the inclined surface 118b, and the distance D12 is greater than the distance D11 (Figure 16A). In other words, the bottom wall 136 of the drainage space R12 is farther from the liquid level S1 (Figure 14) flowing through the flow path 118 than the bottom wall 136 of the storage space R11. Therefore, even when the meshes 132a, 132c are formed over a wide range of the side walls 140, 142, it is possible to prevent water from flowing back from the flow path 118 into the tablet case 113.

[0116] [summary] The above explanations are summarized to describe the features of the present disclosure.

[0117] The washing machine 51 according to the first embodiment has a tablet case 113 into which the disinfecting tablets J are manually inserted.

[0118] Because tablet J is a solid processing agent, tablet J needs to be dissolved in order to be supplied to washing tub 4. On the other hand, if water flows into tablet case 113 at an undesired time, tablet J will be dissolved at that time and supplied to washing tub 4. As a result, tablet J may adhere to clothes and damage the clothes. Therefore, in order to dissolve tablet J at the appropriate time, it is necessary to prevent water from flowing into tablet case 113 at times other than the appropriate time.

[0119] In the present disclosure, a distance D1 is provided between the tablet case 113 and the flow path 118. Furthermore, the distance D12 between the drainage space R12 in which the meshes 132a and 132c are formed and the inclined surface 118b is larger than the distance D11 between the storage space R11 for the tablet J and the inclined surface 118b. By separating the meshes 132a and 132c, through which water may flow in from the outside, from the liquid surface of the water flowing through the flow path 118, the inflow of water through the meshes 132a and 132c can be suppressed.

[0120] Water separator 81 is provided on front surface 139 of tablet case 113, where the distance from inclined surface 118b is smallest and where the risk of water inflow is greatest. This structure prevents water from directly hitting front surface 139 and prevents water from flowing into tablet case 113 through mesh 132b formed near front surface 139. Furthermore, water separator 81 can keep the height of liquid level S1 downstream from water separator 81 below lower end 81a of water separator 81. Because lower end 81a is located lower than bottom wall 136, liquid level S1 is separated from bottom wall 136, making it difficult for water to flow into tablet case 113.

[0121] Furthermore, when water is supplied to tablet case 113 to dissolve tablet J, if the water supply flow rate is high, the liquid level inside tablet case 113 rises. If the liquid level rises significantly, water will flow out from inlet 113a, and fragments of tablet J may overflow from inlet 113a along with the flow of water. Therefore, in the present disclosure, it is required to promote drainage through meshes 132a and 132c so as to prevent the liquid level inside tablet case 113 from rising up to inlet 113a.

[0122] The tablet case 113 is divided by a narrowed portion 137 into a storage space R11 that stores tablets J and a drainage space R12 that restricts the entry of tablets J. Because the entry of tablets J into the drainage space R12 is restricted, it is possible to prevent tablets J or tablet J fragments from adhering to the meshes 132a and 132c and blocking the openings. This maintains the drainage properties of the meshes 132a and 132c in the drainage space R12, ensuring a drainage path. In addition, by providing gaps R4 and R6 between the meshes 132a and 132c and the outer walls 110c and 111c of the cases 110 and 111, water can pass through the meshes 132a and 132c and fall downward into the flow path 118.

[0123] [Effect 1] According to the washing machine 51 according to the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0124] As described above, washing machine 51 of this embodiment is a washing machine configured to allow water-soluble tablets J (solid tablets) to be loaded. Washing machine 51 includes washing tub 4 rotatably provided within housing 2, tablet cases 113 (solid tablets cases) that accommodate tablets J, and path F2 (water supply path) that supplies water to tablet cases 113. Tablet cases 113 have storage space R11 and drainage space R12. Storage space R11 accommodates tablets J. Drainage space R12 is separated from storage space R11 and has a space that communicates with storage space R11, and is formed with meshes 132a, 132c (first drainage section) that drain water supplied to tablet cases 113.

[0125] With this configuration, it is possible to separate storage space R11 that stores tablets J from drainage space R12 where drainage occurs. Therefore, it is possible to prevent fragments of tablets J from clogging meshes 132a and 132c, and improve the drainage performance of tablet case 113. By improving the drainage performance, tablets J can be efficiently dissolved and efficiently supplied to washing tub 4. Furthermore, compared to a configuration in which the volume of tablet case 113 is increased so as to increase the area of ​​the mesh, it is possible to ensure drainage performance with a compact configuration.

[0126] In the washing machine 51 of this embodiment, the tablet case 113 has a narrowing portion 137 and a holding portion 138 (restriction portion) between the storage space R11 and the drainage space R12 to restrict the tablet J from entering the drainage space R12.

[0127] With this configuration, the tablet J can be held in the storage space R11.

[0128] In the washing machine 51 of this embodiment, the tablet case 113 has, as a restricting portion, a narrowed portion 137 whose width is narrower than the accommodation space R11.

[0129] With this configuration, the narrowed portion 137 can hold the tablet J in the storage space R11.

[0130] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, narrowed portion 137 has a shape in which interval R4 (width of opening) narrows downward.

[0131] With this configuration, the tablet J can be more reliably held in the storage space R11 by the narrowed portion 137. Even when the tablet J has an elongated shape and is placed upright, it can be held in the storage space R11.

[0132] In washing machine 51 of this embodiment, tablet case 113 has, as a regulating portion, a retaining portion 138 (extending portion) extending from second side wall 142 (one side) of tablet case 113 toward first side wall 140 (the other side).

[0133] With this configuration, even if the tablet J melts and becomes thinner, the tablet J can be more reliably held in the storage space R11.

[0134] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, cases 110, 111 (first members) having outer walls 110c, 111c (first wall portions) facing meshes 132a, 132c are arranged outside the tablet cases. Distances R4, R6 between meshes 132a, 132c and outer walls 110c, 111c increase downward.

[0135] With this configuration, drainage can be improved even below the meshes 132a and 132c, where many fragments of tablets J are located and prone to clogging. When the inclination angle of the meshes 132a and 132c is large, the opening area of ​​the meshes 132a and 132c viewed from below can be increased. When the inclination angle of the meshes 132a and 132c is equal to or greater than the angle of the narrowed portion 137, the meshes 132a and 132c themselves function as the narrowed portion.

[0136] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, the storage space R11 and the drain space R12 are connected in the front-rear direction L (lateral direction).

[0137] This configuration can reduce the vertical dimension of the tablet case 113. Therefore, the tablet case 113 can be made more space-saving.

[0138] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, the areas of meshes 132a and 132c are 70% or more of the total area of ​​side walls 140 and 142 of drain space R12, respectively.

[0139] This configuration further improves the drainage performance of tablet case 113. Furthermore, if meshes 132a, 132c are also formed on the upper parts of side walls 140, 142 of drainage space R12, even when the liquid level rises, the liquid can be efficiently drained through meshes 132a, 132c.

[0140] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, tablet case 113 is provided with an inlet 113a (tablet inlet) at the top.

[0141] This configuration, compared to a configuration in which the inlet 113a is provided in the center of the tablet case 113, makes it possible to prevent fragments of tablet J that have partially dissolved in water from overflowing from the inlet 113a without passing through the meshes 132a and 132c.

[0142] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, path F2 supplies water to accommodation space R11 through inlet 113a.

[0143] With this configuration, the input port 113a can also be used as a water supply port, which minimizes the opening area of ​​the tablet case 113, thereby preventing broken pieces of the tablets J from leaking out of the tablet case 113.

[0144] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, input port 113a is provided at the top of storage space R11 and has a vertically elongated shape. A vertical dimension D5 of storage space R11 is approximately the same as a longitudinal dimension D3 of input port 113a.

[0145] With this configuration, the vertical dimension of the storage space R11 can be reduced while ensuring a space for storing the disk-shaped tablets J. Therefore, the tablet case 113 can be made more space-saving.

[0146] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, mesh 132b (second drainage portion) is formed in accommodation space R11.

[0147] With this configuration, water can also be drained from the storage space R11, and the drainage performance of the tablet case 113 can be further improved.

[0148] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, the area of ​​mesh 132b is smaller than the areas of meshes 132a and 132c.

[0149] With this configuration, the storage space R11 can retain a certain amount of water while draining it appropriately, thereby allowing the tablets J to be dissolved efficiently.

[0150] [Effect 2] Washing machine 51 of this embodiment is a washing machine configured to be able to load water-soluble tablets J (solid agents). Washing machine 51 includes washing tub 4, tablet case 113 (solid agent case), powder detergent case 112 (first detergent case), path F2 (first water supply path), and path F1 (second water supply path). Washing tub 4 is rotatably provided within housing 2. Tablet case 113 accommodates tablets J. Powder detergent case 112 includes: a loading space 117 adjacent to tablet case 113 into which powder detergent (first detergent) is loaded; a flow path 118 located below tablet case 113 and communicating with loading space 117; and an outlet 119 located downstream of flow path 118. Path F2 (first water supply path) supplies water to tablet case 113. Path F1 (second water supply path) supplies water to loading space 117. The powder detergent case 112 has a downwardly spaced distance D1 from the tablet case 113, and between the input space 117 and the discharge port 119, an inclined surface 118b that slopes downward in a direction away from the input space 117.

[0151] With this configuration, when water flows on the inclined surface 118b, the liquid level S1 moves away from the tablet cases 113 as it moves downstream in the flow path 118. Therefore, the water hits the tablet cases 113 and is less likely to flow into the tablet cases 113.

[0152] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, distance D1 is smallest at front surface 139 of tablet case 113 (the surface of the solid drug case adjacent to input space 117).

[0153] With this configuration, water hits the portion of tablet case 113 that is away from front face 139 and is less likely to flow into tablet case 113 .

[0154] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, inclined surface 118b is inclined downward relative to bottom wall portion 136 of tablet case 113.

[0155] With this configuration, the water surface moves away from the bottom wall 136 of the tablet case 113 as it moves downstream in the flow path 118. Therefore, the water hits the bottom wall 136 and is less likely to flow into the tablet case 113.

[0156] In washing machine 51 of this embodiment, bottom wall portion 136 of tablet case 113 extends horizontally.

[0157] With this configuration, when the tablet case 113 has an openable and closable configuration, the tablet case 113 can be manufactured easily.

[0158] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, water-removing section 81 is provided upstream of tablet case 113. The height dimension between water-removing section 81 and inclined surface 118b is smaller than the height dimension between bottom wall portion 136 of tablet case 113 and inclined surface 118b.

[0159] With this configuration, water can be further prevented from flowing into the inside of the tablet case 113 through the mesh 132b near the front surface 139.

[0160] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, front surface 139 of tablet case 113 is located at connection part P between input space 117 and flow path 118. Width W1 of water removal part 81 is larger than width W2 of the inlet of flow path 118.

[0161] With this configuration, water can be prevented from flowing into the tablet case 113 from the side of the water-removing portion 81.

[0162] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, side walls 140 and 142 of tablet case 113 are formed with meshes 132a and 132c (drainage portions).

[0163] With this configuration, the inflow of water into tablet case 113 can be suppressed more effectively than when meshes 132a, 132c are formed on bottom wall 136 or front surface 139 of tablet case 113.

[0164] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, tablet case 113 has a storage space R11 having a water supply position K2 for storing tablets J, and a drain space R12 for draining water supplied to tablet case 113. Storage space R11 is located closer to input space 117 than drain space R12. Meshes 132a, 132c (drainage portions) are formed on side walls 140, 142 of drain space R12.

[0165] With this configuration, backflow of water into the drain space R12 through the meshes 132a and 132c can be suppressed compared to when the drain space R12 is disposed on the front side L1 of the accommodation space R11.

[0166] The washing machine 51 of this embodiment further includes a fabric softener case 110 (second laundry agent case) that accommodates fabric softener (second laundry agent), and a bleach case 111 (third laundry agent case) that accommodates liquid bleach (third laundry agent). The tablet case 113 is disposed between the fabric softener case 110 and the bleach case 111. A path F2 supplies water to the tablet case 113 and the fabric softener case 110. A path F1 supplies water to the powder detergent case 112 and the bleach case 111. A mesh 132b (drainage portion) is formed on a first side wall 140 of the storage space R11 adjacent to the fabric softener case 110.

[0167] With this configuration, fabric softener case 110 and tablet case 113 share path F2. Water is supplied to bleach case 111 via a different path F1. Therefore, water can be supplied to tablet case 113 and bleach case 111 at different times. Because first side wall 140 on which mesh 132b is formed is separated from bleach case 111, water is prevented from passing from bleach case 111 through mesh 132b when water supply to tablet case 113 is stopped.

[0168] In washing machine 51 of this embodiment, fabric softener case 110 and bleach case 111 have openings 110a and 111a (openings) at the top for inserting laundry agents. Tablet case 113 protrudes laterally from the top and has hooks 122 that can be hooked onto the edges of openings 110a and 111a of fabric softener case 110 and bleach case 111.

[0169] With this configuration, by providing hook portions 122 that hook onto insertion ports 110a, 111a, tablet case 113 can be stably positioned. In addition, because hook portions 122 cover part of insertion ports 110a, 111a, it is possible to prevent water from flowing from fabric softener case 110 or bleach case 111 into tablet case 113.

[0170] In washing machine 51 of the present embodiment, fabric softener case 110 has back surface 110d (wall portion) that forms storage space 77 (laundry agent storage space) for storing fabric softener. At an upper portion of back surface 110d away from flow path 118, there is provided cutout portion 145 having a recessed shape that is recessed downward.

[0171] With this configuration, when the liquid level in the fabric softener case 110 rises, the notch 145 allows the water to overflow and be discharged to the outside of the fabric softener case 110. By suppressing the rise in the liquid level in the fabric softener case 110, it is possible to prevent water from flowing from the fabric softener case 110 into the tablet case 113.

[0172] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but can be embodied in various other forms.

[0173] Although the washing machine 51 is an upright washing machine with a drying function in the above example, the washing machine 51 is not limited to this. For example, the washing machine 51 may not have a drying function and may be a drum washing machine.

[0174] 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.

[0175] Although an example in which tablet J contains sodium dichloroisocyanurate has been described, the present invention is not limited to this example, and tablet J may contain other dichloroisocyanurates such as potassium dichloroisocyanurate.

[0176] Although the example having the automatic dispenser unit 7 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this, and the detergent supply unit 55 may have only the manual dispenser unit 56.

[0177] Although an example has been described in which the tablets J have a disk shape and are inserted into the tablet case 113 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 113a is designed to match the shape of the tablets J. Furthermore, the shape of the insertion port 113a may be changed so that the tablets J can be inserted into the tablet case 113 in a horizontal position.

[0178] In the first embodiment, the meshes 132a, 132b, and 132c are configured by ribs 82 and 83 extending in two intersecting directions, but the present invention is not limited to this. The meshes 132a, 132b, and 132c may be configured to form a drainage section or a water passage area having a plurality of water passage holes.

[0179] Although an example in which the path F2 is common to the softener case 110 and the tablet case 113 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The water supply path of the softener case 110 and the water supply path of the tablet case 113 may be provided independently.

[0180] In the tablet case 113, an example in which the storage space R11 and the drainage space R12 are aligned in the front-to-rear direction L has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Modified Examples 1 and 2 described below, the storage space R11 and the drainage space R12 may be aligned in the up-down direction.

[0181] [Variation 1] Fig. 17 is a schematic diagram of a tablet case 213 according to Modification 1. As shown in Fig. 17, Modification 1 differs from the tablet case 113 of Embodiment 1 in that the storage space R11 and the drainage space R12 are arranged in order from top to bottom. Even with this structure, the storage space R11 that stores tablets J and the drainage space R12 where drainage mainly occurs can be separated, thereby improving the drainage performance of the mesh 232a formed in the drainage space R12. Furthermore, water supplied from the inlet 213a falls into the drainage space R12 without remaining in the storage space R11, improving the drainage efficiency of the mesh 232a.

[0182] [Variation 2] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of a tablet case 313 according to Modification 2. As shown in FIG. 18, Modification 2 differs from the tablet case 113 of Embodiment 1 in that the drainage space R12 and the storage space R11 are arranged in this order from top to bottom. Even with this structure, the storage space R11 that stores tablets J and the drainage space R12 where drainage mainly occurs are separated, thereby improving the drainage performance of the mesh 332a formed in the drainage space R12. Furthermore, because tablets J remain in the drainage space R12 due to gravity, it is possible to restrict the tablets J from entering the drainage space R12 even when the narrowing section 137 or the holding section 138 is not provided. This structure further simplifies the structure of the tablet case 313.

[0183] (Embodiment 2) A washing machine 1 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 explanations 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.

[0184] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of a washing machine 1 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0185] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the structure of the detergent supply unit. The washing machine 1 according to the second embodiment is a washing machine having a washing function alone.

[0186] 20 is a perspective view of the detergent supply unit 5. FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the manual insertion unit 6.

[0187] As shown in FIG. 20, 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.

[0188] As shown in FIG. 21 , the manual dosing unit 6 includes a main body 64. A tablet case 63 is housed in the main body 64. A detergent case 60, which houses laundry agents, a fabric softener case 61, and a powder detergent case 62 are arranged side by side in the width direction K in the main body 64. In the main body 64, the detergent case 60 and the powder detergent case 62 are adjacent to each other. Meanwhile, the tablet case 63 is disposed between the detergent case 60 and the fabric softener case 61.

[0189] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the tablet case 63.

[0190] In the second embodiment, the tablet case 63 has one side wall 80 and an open side on the opposite side.

[0191] As shown in Figure 22, a peripheral wall 85 and a protruding portion 88 are provided on one surface of the side wall 80 so as to protrude in the width direction K (short direction). The peripheral wall 85 protrudes from the outer periphery of the side wall 80 and forms the front, bottom and back surfaces of the tablet case 63. The protruding portion 88 is provided on the inside of the peripheral wall 85. The top of the tablet case 63 and the surface facing the side wall 80 are open. In the second embodiment, the outer wall of the softener case 61 functions as the other side wall of the tablet case 63.

[0192] The side wall 80 has a mesh 86 penetrating in the thickness direction (width direction K) of the side wall 80. The dissolved tablet J flows out of the mesh 86 together with the water and is supplied to the washing tub 4.

[0193] The peripheral wall 85 below the insertion port 63a forms an inclined surface. Therefore, the peripheral wall 85 guides the tablet J inserted into the insertion port 63a to the storage space K10 on the rear side L2. When the tablet J reaches the storage space K10, the protrusion 88 functions as a holding portion that holds the tablet J in the storage space K10.

[0194] The protrusion 88 restricts the movement of the tablet J toward the front side L1, and the mesh 86 is formed on the peripheral wall 85 of the front side L1 of the protrusion 88, so the space on the front side L1 of the protrusion 88 corresponds to the drainage space R12 in embodiment 1. Furthermore, since the upward movement of the tablet J is restricted by gravity, the top of the storage space K10 may be lower than the top of the mesh 86, and the drainage space R12 may be formed in the top of the storage space K10.

[0195] The tablets J are supplied with water by water discharged from the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 through an opening formed above the accommodation space K10.

[0196] As shown in the second embodiment, the inlet 63a for inserting the tablet J and the openings for the water supply nozzles 12 and 13 to inject water may be different.

[0197] The washing machine in the first aspect is a washing machine configured to be able to load water-soluble solid agents, and comprises a washing tub rotatably arranged within a housing, a solid agent case that contains the solid agent, and a water supply path that supplies water to the solid agent case, and the solid agent case has a storage space that contains the solid agent, and a drainage space that is separated from the storage space and has a space that communicates with the storage space, and in which a first drainage section that drains the water supplied to the solid agent case is formed.

[0198] In a second aspect of the washing machine, in the washing machine of the first aspect, the solid agent case is provided with a restricting portion between the accommodation space and the drain space, which restricts the solid agent from entering the drain space.

[0199] In a third aspect of the washing machine, in the washing machine of the first or second aspect, the solid agent case has, as the restricting portion, a narrowed portion whose width is narrower than the storage space.

[0200] In a fourth aspect of the washing machine, in the washing machine of any one of the first to third aspects, the narrowed portion has a shape in which the width of the opening narrows downward.

[0201] In a fifth aspect of the washing machine, in the washing machine of any one of the first to fourth aspects, the solid agent case has, as the restricting portion, an extending portion that extends from one side surface of the solid agent case to the other side surface.

[0202] As a washing machine in a sixth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to fifth aspects, a first member having a first wall portion facing the first drainage portion is arranged on the outside of the solid agent case, and the distance between the first drainage portion and the first wall portion increases downward.

[0203] In a seventh aspect of the washing machine, in the washing machine of any one of the first to sixth aspects, the storage space and the drain space are connected in the horizontal direction.

[0204] In an eighth aspect, the washing machine is the washing machine according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the area of ​​the first drainage section is 70% or more of the area of ​​the side wall of the drainage space.

[0205] As a washing machine according to a ninth aspect, in the washing machine according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, the solid agent case is provided with a solid agent inlet at an upper portion.

[0206] In a tenth aspect of the washing machine, in the washing machine according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, the water supply path supplies water to the containing space through the solid agent inlet.

[0207] As a washing machine in an eleventh aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to tenth aspects, the solid agent inlet is provided at the top of the storage space, has a vertically elongated shape, and the vertical dimension of the storage space is approximately the same as the longitudinal dimension of the solid agent inlet.

[0208] A washing machine according to a twelfth aspect is the washing machine according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, wherein a second drainage section is formed in the storage space.

[0209] In a thirteenth aspect, in the washing machine of any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the area of ​​the second drainage section is smaller than the area of ​​the first drainage section.

[0210] 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]

[0211] The washing machine of the present disclosure can improve the functionality of the configuration related to liquid agent dispensing, 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]

[0212] 2. Case 3. Aquarium 4 Washing machine 7 Automatic feeding unit 10 Water supply member 12 Water supply nozzle 13 Water supply nozzle 51 Washing Machine 55 Detergent supply unit 56 Manual input unit 81 Water removal section 100 unit case 101 Flow path member 110 Fabric softener case 110c outer wall 111 Bleach Case 111c outer wall 112 Powder detergent case 113 Pill Case 113a Inlet 113b Grip 114 Main body 117 Input space 118 Channel 118b Slope 121 Regulatory Department 122 Hook 132a mesh 132b mesh 132c mesh 136 Bottom wall 137 Stenosis 138 Holding part 139 Front 140 First Side Wall 141 Peripheral wall 142 Second side wall 145 Notch 146 Notch R11 Containment space R12 Drainage space

Claims

1. A washing machine configured to be able to dispense a water-soluble solid agent, A washing tub rotatably provided in a housing; a solid medication case having a storage space for storing the solid medication; a water supply path for supplying water to the solid dosage case; Equipped with The solid agent case allows water to flow in through a water supply opening provided above the storage space and allows water to flow out through a first drainage section provided below the water supply opening.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the solid agent case has a space separated from the storage space, the space communicating with the storage space, and a drain space in which the first drain portion is formed.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the solid agent case has, as the water supply opening, a solid agent inlet provided at an upper portion of the solid agent case for injecting the solid agent into the solid agent case.

4. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the solid agent case has a restricting portion between the accommodation space and the drain space, the restricting portion restricting the solid agent from entering the drain space.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the solid agent case has, as the restricting portion, a narrowed portion having a width narrower than that of the storage space.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, wherein the narrowed portion has a shape in which the width of the opening narrows downward.

7. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the solid agent case has, as the restricting portion, an extending portion extending from one side surface of the solid agent case to the other side surface of the solid agent case.

8. a first member having a first wall portion facing the first drainage portion is disposed on the outside of the solid medication case; The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein a distance between the first drain portion and the first wall portion increases downward.

9. The washing machine according to claim 2 , wherein the storage space and the drain space are connected laterally.

10. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the area of ​​the first drainage portion is 70% or more of the area of ​​the side wall of the drainage space.

11. the solid agent inlet is provided at an upper portion of the storage space and has a vertically elongated shape; The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein a vertical dimension of the storage space is substantially the same as a longitudinal dimension of the solid agent inlet.

12. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein a second drainage section is formed in the accommodation space.

13. The washing machine according to claim 12, wherein an area of ​​the second drainage portion is smaller than an area of ​​the first drainage portion.

14. A washing machine configured to be able to dispense a water-soluble solid agent, A washing tub rotatably provided in a housing; a solid agent case for accommodating the solid agent; a water supply path for supplying water to the solid dosage case; Equipped with The solid dosage case comprises: a solid agent inlet provided at the top; a storage space for storing the solid formulation; a drainage space that is separated from the storage space and has a space that communicates with the storage space, and in which a first drainage portion that drains water supplied to the solid drug case is formed, The water supply path supplies water to the storage space through the solid agent inlet.

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