washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of supplying a stable concentration of ozone from an ozone generator. [Solution] The drum-type washing and drying machine 1 includes a first supply passage 300 and a second supply passage 400 connected to the first and second outlets of an ozone generator 200, respectively; a fan device 120 that draws in ozone generated by the ozone generator 200 through the first supply passage 300 and sends it to the washing tub W; a water supply passage 52 through which water supplied to the washing tub W and used for washing flows; an ejector 53 that generates negative pressure by the flow of water in the water supply passage 52, drawing in ozone generated by the ozone generator 200 through the second supply passage 400 due to the negative pressure and mixing it with the water flowing in the water supply passage 52; and a supply passage opening / closing means that opens the first supply passage 300 and closes the second supply passage 400 when ozone is drawn in by the fan device 120, and opens the second supply passage 400 and closes the first supply passage 300 when ozone is drawn in by the ejector 53.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a washing machine. The washing machine may or may not have a drying function added thereto.

Background Art

[0002] A washing machine with a drying function equipped with an ozone generator is described in Patent Document 1. In the above washing machine, a drying air passage having a blower is provided, and a tank for storing water used for washing is provided. The air containing ozone generated by the ozone generator is sucked into the blower through the first supply passage due to the rotation of the blower and the negative pressure on the suction side, and is supplied to the drum through the drying air passage. Further, the air containing ozone generated by the ozone generator is sucked into the ejector through the second supply passage due to the negative pressure generated when the water in the circulating tank passes through the ejector, and is mixed into the water passing through the ejector as fine bubbles.

[0003] Thus, in the above washing machine, the ozone generator has two outlets from which air containing ozone is discharged, and these outlets are respectively connected to the first supply passage and the second supply passage.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the washing machine described above, if the ozone generator has two outlets connected through its interior, allowing air to pass between them, then when the ozone-containing air generated by the ozone generator is drawn into the blower via the first supply path, air is drawn into the ozone generator from the second supply path and mixed with the ozone-containing air heading towards the first supply path. This results in a decrease in the ozone concentration in the air supplied from the first supply path. Similarly, when the ozone-containing air generated by the ozone generator is drawn into the ejector via the second supply path, air is drawn into the ozone generator from the first supply path and mixed with the ozone-containing air heading towards the second supply path. This results in a decrease in the ozone concentration in the air supplied from the second supply path.

[0006] Thus, if the ozone supplied from the ozone generator is diluted, it may become impossible to supply ozone at a stable concentration.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of the above problems, and aims to provide a washing machine that can supply ozone at a stable concentration when the ozone generator has a configuration in which ozone that is used as a gas and ozone that is used mixed with water are supplied from two outlets. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A washing machine according to the main aspect of the present invention comprises: a washing tub in which washing is performed; an ozone generator having an ozone generating unit for generating ozone and a first outlet and a second outlet from which the ozone generated by the ozone generating unit is discharged; a first supply passage and a second supply passage connected to the first outlet and the second outlet, respectively; a fan device for drawing in the ozone generated by the ozone generator through the first supply passage and sending it to the washing tub; a water channel through which water supplied to the washing tub and used for washing flows; a negative pressure generating unit provided in the water channel, which generates negative pressure by the flow of water in the water channel, and draws in the ozone generated by the ozone generator through the second supply passage by negative pressure and mixes it with the water flowing in the water channel; and a supply passage opening / closing means that opens the first supply passage and closes the second supply passage when ozone is drawn in by the fan device, and opens the second supply passage and closes the first supply passage when ozone is drawn in by the negative pressure generating unit.

[0009] According to the washing machine of this embodiment, when ozone is drawn in by the fan device, the ozone supplied by the first supply channel is prevented from being diluted by the air coming from the second supply channel, so that a stable concentration of ozone can be supplied into the washing tub. Furthermore, when ozone is drawn in by the negative pressure generating unit, the ozone supplied by the second supply channel is prevented from being diluted by the air coming from the first supply channel, so that a stable concentration of ozone can be mixed into the water flowing through the water channel.

[0010] In the washing machine according to this embodiment, the supply passage opening and closing means may be configured to include a first check valve provided in the first supply passage and opening the first supply passage in the direction in which ozone flows, and a second check valve provided in the second supply passage and opening the second supply passage in the direction in which ozone flows.

[0011] With the above configuration, when ozone is drawn in by the fan device, the first check valve opens and the second check valve closes, thereby opening the first supply passage and closing the second supply passage. Furthermore, when ozone is drawn in by the negative pressure generating unit, the second check valve opens and the first check valve closes, thereby opening the second supply passage and closing the first supply passage.

[0012] In the above configuration, the first check valve and the second check valve may further be configured to include valve bodies formed from an ozone-resistant material.

[0013] With this configuration, the valve body is less likely to deteriorate due to ozone, and the lifespan of the first and second check valves is less likely to be shortened.

[0014] In the washing machine according to this embodiment, the supply path opening and closing means includes a first solenoid valve provided in the first supply path, a second solenoid valve provided in the second supply path, and a control unit that opens the first solenoid valve and closes the second solenoid valve when ozone is drawn in by the fan device, and opens the second solenoid valve and closes the first solenoid valve when ozone is drawn in by the negative pressure generating unit.

[0015] According to the above configuration, when ozone is drawn in by the fan device, the first solenoid valve opens and the second solenoid valve closes, thereby opening the first supply passage and closing the second supply passage. Furthermore, when ozone is drawn in by the negative pressure generating unit, the second solenoid valve opens and the first solenoid valve closes, thereby opening the second supply passage and closing the first supply passage.

[0016] In the washing machine according to this embodiment, a configuration may be adopted in which a water supply unit is further provided, which has a water channel and a water supply valve, and which supplies water to the washing tub through the water channel by opening the water supply valve.

[0017] With the above configuration, when ozone is drawn in by the negative pressure generation unit, a stable concentration of ozone can be mixed into the water flowing through the water channel, allowing ozonated water with a stable ozone concentration to be supplied to and stored in the washing tub. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the present invention, when a washing machine has a configuration in which ozone used as a gas and ozone mixed into water are supplied from two outlets of an ozone generator, a washing machine capable of supplying ozone with a stable concentration can be provided.

[0019] The effects or significance of the present invention will become clearer from the following description of the embodiments. However, the following embodiments are merely examples for implementing the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to those described in the following embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of a drum-type washing and drying machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a plan cross-sectional view showing the configuration of an ozone generator, a first supply path, and a second supply path according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3(a) is a view showing the state in which ozone flows through an ozone generator and a first supply path when ozone is drawn in by a fan device according to an embodiment. FIG. 3(b) is a view showing the state in which ozone flows through an ozone generator and a second supply path when ozone is drawn in by an ejector according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan cross-sectional view showing the configuration of an ozone generator, a first supply path, and a second supply path according to Modification Example 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a plan cross-sectional view showing the configuration of an ozone generator, a first supply path, a second supply path, and a control unit according to Modification Example 2. [Figure 6] FIG. 6(a) is a view showing the state in which ozone flows through an ozone generator and a first supply path when ozone is drawn in by a fan device according to Modification Example 2. FIG. 6(b) is a view showing the state in which ozone flows through an ozone generator and a second supply path when ozone is drawn in by an ejector according to Modification Example 2.

Embodiments for Implementing the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, a drum-type washing and drying machine, which is an embodiment of the washing machine of the present invention, will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of the drum-type washing and drying machine 1.

[0023] The drum-type washing and drying machine 1 includes a rectangular box-shaped housing 10. A circular inlet 11 for loading laundry is formed on the front surface of the housing 10. The inlet 11 is covered by a door 12 that can be opened and closed.

[0024] An outer tub 20 is disposed inside the housing 10. The outer tub 20 is elastically supported by a plurality of dampers 21 and springs 22. A drum 23 is rotatably disposed inside the outer tub 20. The drum 23 rotates around a horizontal axis. The drum 23 has a circular opening 23a on the front surface. Laundry is loaded into the drum 23 through the inlet 11 and the opening 23a. The outer tub 20 and the drum 23 constitute a washing tub W in which washing is performed.

[0025] The outer tub 20 has a circular opening 20a connected to the inlet 11 through a packing for water sealing (not shown) in front of the opening 23a of the drum 23.

[0026] A large number of dehydration holes 23b are formed in the circumferential wall of the drum 23. In addition, a baffle 24 for scraping up the laundry is provided on the circumferential wall inside the drum 23. Note that if the drum 23 is a horizontal-axis type, it may rotate around a rotation axis inclined with respect to the horizontal direction.

[0027] Behind the outer tub 20 is a drive motor 30 that generates torque to rotate the drum 23. The drive motor 30 is, for example, an outer rotor type DC brushless motor. During the washing, rinsing, and drying processes, the drive motor 30 rotates the drum 23 at a speed at which the centrifugal force acting on the laundry inside the drum 23 is less than gravity, causing the laundry to tumble. On the other hand, during the dewatering process, the drive motor 30 rotates the drum 23 at a speed at which the centrifugal force acting on the laundry inside the drum 23 is much greater than gravity, causing the laundry to stick to the circumferential walls of the drum 23.

[0028] A drain port 20b is formed at the bottom of the outer tank 20. A drain channel 40, consisting of a drain hose or the like, is connected to the drain port 20b. A drain valve 41 and a drain filter 42 are provided in the drain channel 40. The drain valve 41 includes, for example, a valve and a torque motor for opening and closing the valve.

[0029] When the drain valve 41 is opened, the water stored in the outer tank 20 is discharged outside the machine through the drain channel 40. The drain filter 42 captures foreign matter such as lint contained in the wastewater.

[0030] A water supply unit 50 is located in the upper part of the housing 10. The water supply unit 50 includes a water supply valve 51 and a water supply channel 52. One end of the water supply channel 52 is connected to the water supply valve 51, and the other end is connected to a water inlet 20c provided on the back of the outer tank 20. When the water supply valve 51 is opened, tap water from the water tap flows through the water supply channel 52 and is supplied into the outer tank 20 from the water inlet 20c. The water supply channel 52 corresponds to the "water flow channel" of the present invention.

[0031] The water supply unit 50 may also include an automatic dispensing device that automatically dispenses liquid detergent and liquid fabric softener into the outer tank 20. The automatic dispensing device may include, for example, a liquid tank in which liquid detergent and liquid fabric softener are stored, and a pump that sends the liquid detergent and liquid fabric softener from the liquid tank into the water supply channel 52. In this case, the liquid detergent and liquid fabric softener discharged into the water supply channel 52 are sent into the outer tank 20 by the water flowing through the water supply channel 52.

[0032] A drying device 100 is located in the upper part of the housing 10 to dry the laundry in the drum 23 with heated air, i.e., hot air. The drying device 100 includes a circulation path 110, a fan device 120, a first heat exchanger 131, and a second heat exchanger 132.

[0033] The circulation path 110 is an air passage through which air flows and is connected to the outer tank 20. The circulation path 110 includes an outlet duct 111, a fan casing 112, a heat exchanger housing 113, and an inlet duct 114. The circulation path 110 is located above the outer tank 20 within the housing 10.

[0034] The outlet duct 111 is connected at one end to an exhaust port 20d located on the rear of the outer tank 20, and at the other end to an intake port 112a of the fan casing 112. The exhaust port 20d may be located at the rear of the circumferential surface of the outer tank 20.

[0035] The heat exchanger housing 113 has a box-like shape that is elongated in the front-to-back direction and is positioned above the outer tank 20 and in front of the fan casing 112. The rear end of the heat exchanger housing 113 is connected to the discharge port 112b of the fan casing 112. The inlet duct 114 extends from the front end of the heat exchanger housing 113 and is connected to the inlet port 20e formed in the front upper part of the outer tank 20.

[0036] The fan device 120 is, for example, a centrifugal fan and includes a fan 121 housed in a fan casing 112 and a fan motor 122 for rotating the fan 121. The fan device 120 circulates air between the outer tank 20 and the circulation path 110. Air discharged from the outer tank 20 through the exhaust port 20d flows through the circulation path 110 in the following order: outlet duct 111, fan casing 112, heat exchanger housing 113, and inlet duct 114, and returns to the outer tank 20 through the inlet port 20e.

[0037] The first heat exchanger 131 and the second heat exchanger 132 are located on the upstream and downstream sides of the heat exchanger housing 113, respectively. The first heat exchanger 131 and the second heat exchanger 132 are an evaporator (cooler) and a condenser (heater), respectively, and are included in the heat pump system. Inside the housing 10, a compressor 133 is located at the bottom, which together with the first heat exchanger 131 and the second heat exchanger 132 constitutes the cooling circuit of the heat pump system. The operation of the compressor 133 causes the refrigerant to circulate through the refrigerant circuit.

[0038] The compressor 133 operates, causing low-temperature refrigerant to flow through the first heat exchanger 131 and high-temperature refrigerant to flow through the second heat exchanger 132. The first heat exchanger 131 cools the air flowing through the circulation path 110 by heat exchange with the low-temperature refrigerant, thereby dehumidifying the air. The second heat exchanger 132 heats the dehumidified air flowing through the circulation path 110 by heat exchange with the high-temperature refrigerant.

[0039] Inside the housing 10, an ozone generator 200 that generates ozone is positioned, for example, on top of the outer tank 20.

[0040] An inlet 111a is provided in the outlet duct 111 of the circulation path 110 near the intake port 112a of the fan casing 112. A first supply path 300 extending from the ozone generator 200 is connected to the inlet 111a. The fan device 120 draws in the ozone generated by the ozone generator 200 via the first supply path 300 and sends it to the washing tub W through the circulation path 110.

[0041] An ejector 53, which constitutes a part of the water supply channel 52, is positioned in the water supply channel 52. A second supply channel 400 extending from the ozone generator 200 is connected to the inlet 53a of the ejector 53. Based on the Venturi principle, the ejector 53 generates negative pressure through the flow of water within the ejector 53, and this negative pressure draws in the ozone generated by the ozone generator 200 through the second supply channel 400. The drawn-in ozone becomes fine bubbles and is mixed into the water flowing through the ejector 53, i.e., the water supply channel 52. The ejector 53 corresponds to the "negative pressure generating section" of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 is a plan cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the ozone generator 200, the first supply channel 300, and the second supply channel 400.

[0043] The ozone generator 200 includes a housing 210 and an ozone generating unit 220.

[0044] The housing 210 has, for example, a cylindrical box shape. An inlet 211 for drawing air into the housing 210 is provided on the front end face of the housing 210. The inlet 211 has, for example, a cylindrical shape and protrudes from the front end face. A first outlet 212 and a second outlet 213 for discharging ozone-containing air from inside the housing 210 are provided on the rear end of the housing 210. The first outlet 212 has, for example, a circular shape and is provided on the left side of the circumferential surface of the housing 210, and the second outlet 213 has, for example, a circular shape and is provided on the right side of the circumferential surface of the housing 210 so as to face the first outlet 212. The first outlet 212 and the second outlet 213 are connected through the interior of the housing 210.

[0045] Furthermore, the first outlet 212 and the second outlet 213 do not necessarily have to be positioned opposite each other at a 180-degree interval in the circumferential direction of the housing 210; for example, they may be positioned at a 90-degree interval in the circumferential direction.

[0046] The ozone generating unit 220 is, for example, a discharge-type ozone generator and has a pair of electrodes 221. The pair of electrodes 221 are connected to a power supply unit 230. The power supply unit 230 is controlled by a control unit (not shown) to turn it on and off.

[0047] When an AC voltage is supplied from the power supply unit 230 to a pair of electrodes 221 while air taken in from the inlet 211 is flowing through the housing 210 toward the first outlet 212 or the second outlet 213, a discharge such as a silent discharge occurs between the electrodes 221, and ozone is generated from the air (oxygen) passing through the ozone generating unit 220.

[0048] The first supply channel 300 includes a first check valve 310 and a first connecting hose 320, and the second supply channel 400 includes a second check valve 410 and a second connecting hose 420. That is, the first supply channel 300 is provided with a first check valve 310, and the second supply channel 400 is provided with a second check valve 410. The first check valve 310 opens the first supply channel 300 in the direction in which ozone flows, and the second check valve 410 opens the second supply channel 400 in the direction in which ozone flows. The first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410 constitute the "supply channel opening and closing means" of the present invention.

[0049] The first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410 are integrally formed with the housing 210 of the ozone generator 200 and include housing tubes 311, 411, valve seats 312, 412, and valve bodies 313, 413. The first check valve 310 is connected to the first outlet 212 of the housing 210, and the second check valve 410 is connected to the second outlet 213 of the housing 210.

[0050] The housing tubes 311, 411 are formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape and have connection ports 311a, 411a at their ends. The valve seats 312, 412 are provided inside the housing tubes 311, 411 and are formed, for example, in a circular annular shape with openings 312a, 412a in the center.

[0051] The valve bodies 313 and 413 are, for example, disc-shaped and made of an ozone-resistant material such as silicone rubber. The valve bodies 313 and 413 are positioned on the connection port 311a and 411a side relative to the valve seats 312 and 412, and contact the valve seats 312 and 412 from the connection port 311a and 411a side to close the openings 312a and 412a. The valve bodies 313 and 413 are provided with pivot shafts 313a and 413a at one end, and these pivot shafts 313a and 413a are supported by support parts 311b and 411b provided inside the housing pipes 311 and 411. The valve bodies 313 and 413 open and close by rotating around the pivot shafts 313a and 413a as a fulcrum.

[0052] The first connecting hose 320 has one end connected to the connection port 311a of the first check valve 310 and the other end connected to the inlet port 111a of the circulation path 110. The second connecting hose 420 has one end connected to the connection port 411a of the second check valve 410 and the other end connected to the inlet port 53a of the ejector 53.

[0053] In this embodiment, since the first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410 are provided integrally with the ozone generator 200, it is not necessary to connect the ozone generator 200 with the first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410 using connecting members such as hoses, thus improving ease of assembly.

[0054] In the drum-type washer-dryer 1, various wash-and-dry cycles, wash cycles, and dry cycles are performed. In the wash-and-dry cycle, the washing, intermediate spin-drying, rinsing, final spin-drying, and drying cycles are performed in order. In the wash cycle, the washing cycle is performed up to the final spin-drying cycle, but the drying cycle is not performed. In the dry cycle, only the drying cycle is performed. Depending on the cycle, the rinsing and intermediate spin-drying cycles may be performed two or more times.

[0055] In the washing process, water containing detergent is filled into the outer tub 20 up to a washing water level corresponding to the load of laundry contained in the drum 23. The laundry immersed in this water tumbles inside the drum 23 as the drum 23 rotates repeatedly in the forward and reverse directions. The water containing detergent penetrates deep into the laundry, and the dirt is removed from the laundry by the combined force of the detergent and the mechanical force of tumbling.

[0056] During the rinsing process, the drum 23 rotates forward and backward with water filling the outer tub 20 up to the rinsing water level, causing the laundry to tumble around inside the drum 23. This allows the detergent contained in the laundry to be discharged along with the water, thus rinsing the laundry.

[0057] In the intermediate and final dewatering processes, the drive motor 30 rotates at high speed in one direction, causing the drum 23 to rotate in one direction at a speed at which the centrifugal force acting on the laundry inside the drum 23 is much greater than that of gravity. Due to the action of centrifugal force, the laundry is pressed against the circumferential walls of the drum 23 and dewatered.

[0058] During the drying process, the fan device 120 circulates air between the outer tub 20 and the circulation path 110, and the second heat exchanger 132 heats the air introduced into the outer tub 20, turning it into warm air. Furthermore, the drum 23 rotates in both forward and reverse directions, causing the laundry to tumble inside the drum 23.

[0059] Hot air introduced into the outer tub 20 and drum 23 from the inlet 20e hits the tumbling laundry, drying it. The hot air, having removed moisture from the laundry, returns to the circulation path 110 from the exhaust port 20d. Within the circulation path 110, the hot air passes through the first heat exchanger 131 before being heated in the second heat exchanger 132, where it is dehumidified.

[0060] In the drum-type washer-dryer 1, the ozone generated by the ozone generator 200 is supplied to the washing tub W through the circulation path 110, enabling an ozone sterilization operation to deodorize and sterilize items to be processed, such as clothes, towels, and stuffed animals, contained in the drum 23.

[0061] During the ozone sterilization operation, when ozone is supplied into the washing tub W, the fan device 120 and the ozone generator 200 operate. The ozone generated by the ozone generator 200 is drawn into the fan device 120 via the first supply path 300 and sent to the washing tub W via the circulation path 110. The ozone is supplied into the washing tub W contained in the air taken in by the ozone generator 200 and the air flowing through the circulation path 110. In other words, the ozone is supplied to the washing tub W as ozone gas, without being mixed with water.

[0062] Furthermore, the drum-type washer-dryer 1 can store ozonated water, which is formed by mixing ozone generated by the ozone generator 200 with water, in the washing tub W, and perform an ozone course wash operation using the ozonated water for washing and rinsing laundry. In addition, it can perform a tub cleaning operation to clean the washing tub W using the ozonated water.

[0063] When ozonated water is supplied to the washing tub W, the water supply valve 51 opens, and water flows through the water supply channel 52. At the same time, the ozone generator 200 operates, and ozone is generated. The generated ozone is drawn into the ejector 53 via the second supply channel 400 and mixed with the water flowing through the water supply channel 52. As a result, ozonated water is produced and stored in the washing tub W.

[0064] Figure 3(a) shows how ozone flows through the ozone generator 200 and the first supply path 300 when ozone is drawn in by the fan device 120. Figure 3(b) shows how ozone flows through the ozone generator 200 and the second supply path 400 when ozone is drawn in by the ejector 53.

[0065] As shown in Figure 3(a), when ozone is drawn in by the fan device 120, the pulling force generated by the fan device 120 causes the valve body 313 in the first check valve 310 to rotate and move away from the opening 312a of the valve seat 312. This opens the first check valve 310 and the first supply passage 300. In the ozone generator 200, the pulling force of the fan device 120 draws in air from the inlet 211, and the drawn-in air flows through the housing 210 and passes through the ozone generating unit 220. The ozone generating unit 220 generates ozone from the air, and the generated ozone, contained in the air flowing through the housing 210, is discharged from the first outlet 212, flows through the first check valve 310 and the first connecting hose 320, i.e., the first supply passage 300, to the circulation passage 110, and is drawn in by the fan device 120. At this time, a negative pressure is generated inside the housing 210 due to the flow of ozone-containing air to the first outlet 212. As a result, the valve body 413 of the second check valve 410 is pulled towards the second outlet 213, closing the opening 412a of the valve seat 412. This closes the second check valve 410, and thus closes the second supply passage 400. Therefore, air does not enter the housing 210 from the second supply passage 400, and the ozone supplied by the first supply passage 300 is not diluted by the air from the second supply passage 400.

[0066] As shown in Figure 3(b), when ozone is drawn in by the ejector 53, the pulling force generated by the ejector 53 causes the valve body 413 in the second check valve 410 to rotate and move away from the opening 412a of the valve seat 412. This opens the second check valve 410 and the second supply passage 400. In the ozone generator 200, the pulling force of the ejector 53 draws in air from the inlet 211, and the drawn-in air flows through the housing 210 and passes through the ozone generating unit 220. The ozone generating unit 220 generates ozone from the air, and the generated ozone, contained in the air flowing through the housing 210, is discharged from the second outlet 213, drawn in to the ejector 53 through the second check valve 410 and the second connecting hose 420, i.e., the second supply passage 400, and mixed with the water flowing in the water supply passage 52. At this time, a negative pressure is generated inside the housing 210 due to the flow of ozone-containing air to the second outlet 213. As a result, the valve body 313 of the first check valve 310 is pulled towards the first outlet 212, closing the opening 312a of the valve seat 312. This closes the first check valve 310, and thus closes the first supply passage 300. Therefore, air does not enter the housing 210 from the first supply passage 300, and the ozone supplied by the second supply passage 400 is not diluted by the air from the first supply passage 300.

[0067] <Effects of the Embodiment> According to this embodiment, the drum-type washing and drying machine 1 is equipped with supply path opening and closing means that open the first supply path 300 and close the second supply path 400 when ozone is drawn in by the fan device 120, and open the second supply path 400 and close the first supply path 300 when ozone is drawn in by the ejector 53. Specifically, the supply path opening and closing means is equipped with a first check valve 310 provided in the first supply path 300 which opens the first supply path 300 in the direction in which ozone flows, and a second check valve 410 provided in the second supply path 400 which opens the second supply path 400 in the direction in which ozone flows.

[0068] With this configuration, when ozone is drawn in by the fan device 120, the ozone supplied by the first supply channel 300 is prevented from being diluted by the air coming from the second supply channel 400, so that a stable concentration of ozone can be supplied into the washing tub W. Furthermore, when ozone is drawn in by the ejector 53, the ozone supplied by the second supply channel 400 is prevented from being diluted by the air coming from the first supply channel 300, so that a stable concentration of ozone can be mixed into the water flowing through the water supply channel 52. Therefore, ozonated water with a stable ozone concentration can be supplied to and stored in the washing tub W.

[0069] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410 include valve bodies 313 and 413 formed from an ozone-resistant material.

[0070] With this configuration, the valve bodies 313 and 413 are less likely to deteriorate due to ozone, and the lifespan of the first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410 is less likely to be shortened.

[0071] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited in any way by the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible to the embodiments of the present invention other than those described above.

[0072] <Example of change 1> In the above embodiment, the first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410 are provided integrally with the ozone generator 200. In contrast, in this modified example, the first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410 are provided separately from the ozone generator 200.

[0073] Figure 4 is a plan cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the ozone generator 200, the first supply channel 300, and the second supply channel 400 according to Modification Example 1.

[0074] The first supply channel 300 includes a first check valve 310 and a first connecting hose 320, in addition to a first connecting pipe 330, and the second supply channel 400 includes a second check valve 410 and a second connecting hose 420, in addition to a second connecting pipe 430. In the first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410, the housing pipes 311, 411 have similar connecting ports 311c, 411c on the opposite side of the connecting ports 311a, 411a. The valve seats 312, 412 constitute the end faces of the housing pipes 311, 411, and the connecting ports 311c, 411c are connected to the openings 312a, 412a of the valve seats 312, 412.

[0075] In the ozone generator 200, the first outlet 212 and the second outlet 213 of the housing 210 are, for example, cylindrical in shape and protrude from the circumferential surface of the housing 210.

[0076] The first connecting pipe 330 is connected to the first outlet 212 and the connection port 311c. This places the first check valve 310 between the first connecting pipe 330 and the first connecting hose 320. The second connecting pipe 430 is connected to the second outlet 213 and the connection port 411c. This places the second check valve 410 between the second connecting pipe 430 and the second connecting hose 420.

[0077] In this configuration, the first check valve 310 and the second check valve 410 can be formed by arranging two identical check valves in opposite directions.

[0078] <Example of change 2> In the above embodiment, the supply path opening and closing means is composed of a first check valve 310 and a second check valve 410.

[0079] In contrast, in this modified example, the supply path opening and closing means is composed of a first solenoid valve 340, a second solenoid valve 440, and a control unit 500.

[0080] Figure 5 is a plan cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the ozone generator 200, the first supply path 300, the second supply path 400, and the control unit 500 according to modification example 2.

[0081] The first supply channel 300 includes a first solenoid valve 340, a first connecting hose 320, and a first connecting pipe 330, while the second supply channel 400 includes a second solenoid valve 440, a second connecting hose 420, and a second connecting pipe 430.

[0082] A first connecting pipe 330 is connected to the inlet 341 of the first solenoid valve 340, and a first connecting hose 320 is connected to the outlet 342 of the first solenoid valve 340. As a result, the first solenoid valve 340 is installed in the first supply passage 300 so as to be positioned between the first connecting pipe 330 and the first connecting hose 320. A second connecting pipe 430 is connected to the inlet 441 of the second solenoid valve 440, and a second connecting hose 420 is connected to the outlet 442 of the second solenoid valve 440. As a result, the second solenoid valve 440 is installed in the second supply passage 400 so as to be positioned between the second connecting pipe 430 and the second connecting hose 420.

[0083] The first solenoid valve 340 and the second solenoid valve 440 are controlled by a control unit 500 consisting of a CPU and the like. The control unit 500 also controls the power supply unit 230.

[0084] Figure 6(a) shows how ozone flows through the ozone generator 200 and the first supply path 300 when ozone is drawn in by the fan device 120 according to Modification Example 2. Figure 6(b) shows how ozone flows through the ozone generator 200 and the second supply path 400 when ozone is drawn in by the ejector 53 according to Modification Example 2.

[0085] As shown in Figure 6(a), when ozone is drawn in by the fan device 120, the control unit 500 opens the first solenoid valve 340 and closes the second solenoid valve 440. This opens the first supply passage 300 and closes the second supply passage 400. In the ozone generator 200, the drawing force of the fan device 120 draws in air from the inlet 211, and the drawn-in air flows through the housing 210. Ozone is generated from the air by the ozone generating unit 220. The generated ozone, contained in the air flowing through the housing 210, is discharged from the first outlet 212, flows through the first solenoid valve 340 and the first connecting hose 320, i.e., the first supply passage 300, to the circulation passage 110, and is drawn in by the fan device 120. At this time, the second supply passage 400 is closed. Therefore, since air does not enter the housing 210 from the second supply channel 400, the ozone supplied by the first supply channel 300 is not diluted by the air from the second supply channel 400.

[0086] As shown in Figure 6(b), when ozone is drawn in by the ejector 53, the control unit 500 opens the second solenoid valve 440 and closes the first solenoid valve 340. This opens the second supply passage 400 and closes the first supply passage 300. In the ozone generator 200, the drawing force of the ejector 53 draws in air from the inlet 211, and the drawn-in air flows through the housing 210. Ozone is generated from the air by the ozone generating unit 220. The generated ozone, contained in the air flowing through the housing 210, is discharged from the second outlet 213, drawn in to the ejector 53 through the second solenoid valve 440 and the second connecting hose 420, i.e., the second supply passage 400, and mixed with the water flowing in the water supply passage 52. At this time, the first supply passage 300 is closed. Therefore, since air does not enter the housing 210 from the first supply channel 300, the ozone supplied by the second supply channel 400 is not diluted by the air from the first supply channel 300.

[0087] According to the configuration of this modified example, a stable concentration of ozone can be supplied into the washing tub W, similar to the embodiment described above, and a stable concentration of ozone can be mixed into the water flowing through the water supply channel 52.

[0088] <Other examples of changes> The ozone generating unit 220 of the ozone generator 200 may be an ozone generator other than a discharge type, as long as it generates ozone.

[0089] Furthermore, the fan device 120 does not need to be located in the circulation path 110, as long as it can draw in the ozone generated by the ozone generator 200 via the first supply path 300 and send it to the washing tub W. For example, the fan device 120 may be located in a dedicated supply path for supplying ozone to the washing tub W.

[0090] Furthermore, components other than the ejector may be used to draw ozone into the water supply channel 52. For example, a Venturi tube may be used as a negative pressure generating section.

[0091] Furthermore, the drum-type washer-dryer 1 may include a tank for storing water to be reused for washing, such as water used once for washing, and a circulating water channel (corresponding to a flow channel) through which water circulates between the tank and the tank, and a negative pressure generating unit such as an ejector may be provided in the circulating water channel. In this case, the ozone generated by the ozone generator 200 is drawn into the ejector of the circulating water channel via the second supply channel 400 and mixed with the water flowing in the circulating water channel. This makes it possible to mix ozone of a stable concentration into the water in the circulating water channel, and to effectively disinfect the water in the tank.

[0092] Furthermore, the above embodiment illustrates a drum-type washer-dryer 1 equipped with a horizontal-axis drum 23. However, the present invention can also be applied to a so-called vertical washer-dryer equipped with a vertical-axis washing and dewatering tub having a pulsator inside the outer tub. Moreover, the present invention can also be applied to a washing machine that does not have a drying function.

[0093] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention can be modified in various ways as appropriate within the scope of the technical idea set forth in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 1. Drum-type washer-dryer (washing machine) 50 Water supply section 51 Water supply valve 52 Water supply channel (flow channel) 120 Fan Device 200 Ozone Generators 210 Housing 212 Exit 1 213 Exit 2 220 Ozone Generating Unit 300 1st supply route 310 First check valve 313 Valve body 340 First solenoid valve 400 2nd supply route 410 Second check valve 413 Valve body 440 Second solenoid valve 500 Control Unit W washing tub

Claims

1. The washing tub where the washing takes place, An ozone generator having an ozone generating unit that generates ozone and a first outlet and a second outlet from which the ozone generated by the ozone generating unit is discharged, A first supply path and a second supply path connected to the first outlet and the second outlet, respectively, A fan device that draws in the ozone generated by the ozone generator through the first supply path and sends it to the washing tub, A water channel through which water supplied to the washing tub and used for washing flows, A negative pressure generating unit is provided in the waterway, which generates negative pressure due to the flow of water in the waterway, and draws in the ozone generated by the ozone generator through the second supply passage due to the negative pressure, and mixes it with the water flowing in the waterway. A supply path opening / closing means that opens the first supply path and closes the second supply path when ozone is drawn in by the fan device, and opens the second supply path and closes the first supply path when ozone is drawn in by the negative pressure generating unit, A washing machine characterized by having the following features.

2. In the washing machine according to claim 1, The supply path opening and closing means is A first check valve is provided in the first supply passage and opens the first supply passage in the direction in which ozone flows, The second supply passage includes a second check valve that opens the second supply passage in the direction in which ozone flows, A washing machine characterized by the following features.

3. In the washing machine according to claim 2, The first check valve and the second check valve include a valve body formed of an ozone-resistant material. A washing machine characterized by the following features.

4. In the washing machine according to claim 1, The supply path opening and closing means is A first solenoid valve provided in the first supply path, A second solenoid valve provided in the second supply path, The control unit includes a control that opens the first solenoid valve and closes the second solenoid valve when ozone is drawn in by the fan device, and opens the second solenoid valve and closes the first solenoid valve when ozone is drawn in by the negative pressure generating unit. A washing machine characterized by the following features.

5. In a washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The system further includes a water supply unit having the aforementioned water channel and a water supply valve, which supplies water to the washing tub through the water channel when the water supply valve is opened. A washing machine characterized by the following features.

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