washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine that can clean properly while reducing the number of rinses. [Solution] The system comprises a washing tub 1, a circulation pump 3, an air pump 5, and an air mixing path 7 as a first means for applying fine bubbles to the wastewater after the washing process, a first separation tank 9 for separating and holding the fine bubbles from the wastewater, a circulation pump 2, an air pump 4, and an air mixing path 6 as a second means for applying fine bubbles to the circulating detergent water during the rinsing process, and a second separation tank 11 for separating and holding the fine bubbles, and supplies fine bubbles from the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 to the washing tub 1.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] A washing machine improves the cleaning power by performing a washing process using water (detergent water) in which a detergent is dissolved. When the washing process is completed, the detergent water is drained from the washing tub, tap water is supplied, and a rinsing process is performed while circulating.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, there is provided a fine bubble generation nozzle capable of generating fine bubbles and a floating separation tank that separates surfactant-attached fine bubbles from water by floating them on the water surface. A washing machine has been proposed in which fine bubbles are allowed to act on the detergent water circulated during the washing process, and the surfactant is separated from the detergent water in this floating separation tank.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, when the surfactant is separated from the detergent water circulated during the washing process as in the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is a concern that the cleaning power may decrease due to a decrease in the surfactant concentration. In addition, the effect of separating the surfactant from the circulating water in the rinsing process is not mentioned.

[0006] The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems and aims to provide a washing machine that can be appropriately cleaned and can reduce the number of rinsing times.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The present invention comprises a washing tub, a first means for applying microbubbles to wastewater after the washing process, a first separation tank for separating and retaining the microbubbles from the wastewater, a second means for applying microbubbles to circulating detergent water during the rinsing process, and a second separation tank for separating and retaining the microbubbles, and is characterized by supplying microbubbles from the first separation tank and the second separation tank to the washing tub.

[0008] Furthermore, the present invention comprises a washing tub, a first means for applying microbubbles to wastewater after the washing process, a first separation tank for separating and retaining the microbubbles from the wastewater, a second means for applying microbubbles to circulating detergent water during the rinsing process, and a second separation tank for separating and retaining the microbubbles, and is characterized by comprising a microbubble recovery means for recovering the microbubbles in the first and second separation tanks, a microbubble storage tank for holding the microbubbles recovered by the microbubble recovery means, and a microbubble supply means for supplying the microbubbles held in the microbubble storage tank to the washing tub by creating a negative pressure in the microbubble storage tank. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine that can clean properly and reduce the number of rinses. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the first separation tank. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine according to the third embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the microbubble collection device. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram showing other configurations of the microbubble recovery means. [Figure 8] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine according to the sixth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below, and various modifications and applications are also included within the technical concept of the present invention. The washing machine described below may be a pulsator-type washing machine that can perform washing by rotating a pulsator to generate a water flow, or a drum-type washing machine that can perform washing by placing laundry in a drum and rotating the drum.

[0012] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 is a block diagram showing a washing machine according to the first embodiment. This washing machine 100A is configured to include a washing tub 1, circulation pumps 2, 3, air pumps 4, 5, air mixing paths 6, 7, a first separation tank 9, a second separation tank 11, three-way valves 8, 10, 12, and a control unit 20.

[0013] The washing tub 1 is composed of an outer tub and an inner tub rotatably housed inside the outer tub. The washing machine 100A includes a water supply unit for supplying water to the inner tub, a drive unit for rotating the inner tub, and a housing that houses the washing tub 1, the water supply unit, and the drive unit. The washing machine 100A includes a flow path a1 connecting the washing tub 1 and the circulation pump 2, and a flow path a2 connecting the circulation pump 2 and the three-way valve 8. The washing machine 100A also includes a flow path a3 connecting the three-way valve 8 and the first separation tank 9, and a flow path a4 connecting the three-way valve 8 and the second separation tank 11. The washing machine 100A also includes a flow path a5 connecting the first separation tank 9 and the three-way valve 10, and a flow path a6 connecting the second separation tank 11 and the three-way valve 12. The washing machine 100A also includes a flow path a7 connecting the three-way valve 10 and the washing tub 1, and a flow path a8 connecting the three-way valve 12 and the three-way valve 10. Additionally, the washing machine 100A is connected to the drain via the three-way valve 12.

[0014] The circulation pump 2 has a function of circulating the washing water discharged from the washing tub 1 back to the washing tub 1 through the first separation tank 9, and a function of circulating the washing water discharged from the washing tub 1 back to the washing tub 1 through the second separation tank 11.

[0015] The circulation pump 3 has a function of circulating the washing water sucked from the first separation tank 9 back to the first separation tank 9.

[0016] The air pump 4 has a function of introducing air into the circulation pump 2 through the air mixing path 6. The air introduced into the circulation pump 2 is crushed by the blades (impellers) of the circulation pump 2, thereby generating microbubbles and ultra-fine bubbles. Ultra-fine bubbles are bubbles with a diameter of 1 μm or less, and microbubbles are bubbles with a diameter of 100 μm or less.

[0017] The air pump 5 has a function of introducing air into the circulation pump 3 through the air mixing path 7. The air introduced into the circulation pump 3 is crushed by the blades (impellers) of the circulation pump 3, thereby generating microbubbles and ultra-fine bubbles.

[0018] The three-way valve 8 is configured to be able to switch between the direction of introducing the washing water from the washing tub 1 into the first separation tank 9 and the direction of introducing the washing water from the washing tub 1 into the second separation tank 11. The three-way valve 10 is configured to be able to switch between the direction of returning the washing water from the first separation tank 9 to the washing tub 1 and the direction of returning the washing water from the second separation tank 11 to the washing tub 1. The three-way valve 12 is configured to be able to switch between the direction of introducing the washing water from the second separation tank 11 into the three-way valve 10 and the direction of discharging the washing water from the second separation tank 11 outside the machine.

[0019] The control unit 20 is composed of a computer equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, interface circuits, etc., and controls the washing tub 1, circulation pumps 2, 3, air pumps 4, 5, and three-way valves 8, 10, 12 according to the control program stored in the memory (ROM).

[0020] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the first separation tank. As shown in Figure 2, the first separation tank 9 has a cavity Q in which detergent water can be stored. A channel a3 into which detergent water is introduced is connected to the lower part of one side of the cavity Q. A channel a5 into which detergent water is discharged is connected to the lower part of the other side of the cavity Q. The first separation tank 9 is also provided with a first means consisting of a circulation pump 3, an air pump 5, and an air mixing path 7.

[0021] The detergent water drawn in from the bottom of the cavity Q by the circulation pump 3 has fine bubbles introduced into it by the first means (circulation pump 3, air pump 5, air mixing path 7). Surfactants adhere to the fine bubbles 25 introduced into the cavity Q, and the fine bubbles 25 float to the surface of the detergent water in the cavity Q. Then, fine bubbles 35 with surfactants attached accumulate on the liquid surface S.

[0022] The second separation tank 11, like the first separation tank 9, has a cavity, and channels a4 and a6 are connected to its lower part. Microbubbles are introduced into the detergent water (rinse water) discharged from the washing tub 1 by the circulation pump 2 by the second means (circulation pump 2, air pump 4, air mixing path 6). The microbubbles are introduced into the second separation tank 11 through channels a2 and a4. Surfactants adhere to the microbubbles introduced into the second separation tank 11, and the microbubbles 25 float to the surface of the detergent water in the cavity. Then, microbubbles with surfactants attached accumulate on the liquid surface.

[0023] Next, the operation of the washing machine 100A of the first embodiment will be described. In the normal washing mode of the washing machine 100A, the washing process is performed by rotating the pulsator or drum with water containing detergent dissolved in it (detergent water) stored in the washing tub 1, after which the detergent water in the washing tub 1 is drained. Water is then supplied to the washing tub 1 again for the rinsing process, after which the water in the washing tub 1 is drained and the spin-drying process is performed by rotating the inner tub or drum at high speed. In the rinsing process, the rinsing operation is performed multiple times by filling the washing tub 1 with water and rotating the pulsator or drum, and then draining the water in the washing tub 1. During the washing and rinsing processes, tap water from an external water supply facility or water stored in a bathtub is supplied to the washing tub 1.

[0024] The washing machine 100A of the first embodiment is provided with air mixing paths 6 and 7 in which air is mixed into the circulation pumps 2 and 3 by air pumps 4 and 5. The air is crushed within the circulation pumps 2 and 3 to generate fine bubbles. This makes it possible to create washing water containing fine bubbles to which surfactants adhere. The means of generating fine bubbles is not limited to a combination of circulation pumps 2 and 3 and air pumps 4 and 5, but a device capable of generating fine bubbles (for example, a nozzle) may be provided in the middle of the detergent water circulation path, and fine bubbles may be generated in the detergent water by such a device.

[0025] First, at the start of the washing process, the control unit 20 drives the circulation pump 2 and switches the three-way valve 8 so that flow paths a2 and a3 are connected, thereby directing detergent water to the first separation tank 9. The control unit 20 also switches the three-way valve 10 so that flow paths a5 and a7 are connected, thereby directing detergent water into the washing tub 1. By circulating detergent water between the washing tub 1 and the first separation tank 9 in this way, the washing process can be carried out.

[0026] At the end of the washing process, the control unit 20 maintains the state of the three-way valve 8 during the washing process, directing the detergent water to the first separation tank 9, and closes the three-way valve 10. As a result, the detergent water drained from the washing tub 1 is stored in the first separation tank 9. The cavity Q (see Figure 2) of the first separation tank 9 has a volume capable of storing the detergent water from the washing tub 1. After or during the storage of detergent water in the first separation tank 9, the circulation pump 3 is driven to circulate the detergent water in the first separation tank 9 within the cavity Q. Simultaneously, the air pump 5 is driven to introduce air into the circulation pump 3, generating fine bubbles in the detergent water. By generating fine bubbles in the detergent water in the first separation tank 9 in this way, the surfactant, which is the cleaning component of the detergent, adheres to the fine bubbles. The fine bubbles with the attached surfactant float to the liquid surface S in the first separation tank 9, and the fine bubbles with the attached surfactant are separated from the water. Furthermore, the generation of fine bubbles in the detergent water continues until the end of the washing cycle (washing, rinsing, and spinning). In other words, the end of the washing cycle refers to the period before removing the laundry from the washing machine 100A.

[0027] At the end of the washing cycle, when all the detergent water in the washing tub 1 has been stored in the first separation tank 9, the rinsing cycle is started. At the start of the rinsing cycle, the control unit 20 supplies water to the washing tub 1 from the water supply unit (not shown). The control unit 20 then controls the three-way valve 8 so that flow paths a2 and a4 are connected, and the detergent water is guided to the second separation tank 11. The control unit 20 also controls the three-way valve 12 so that flow paths a6 and a8 are connected, and the water is guided into the washing tub 1. The control unit 20 also controls the three-way valve 10 so that flow paths a8 and a7 are connected, and the water is guided into the washing tub 1. The circulation pump 2 and the air pump 4 are also driven to ensure that the detergent water (rinsing water) contains fine bubbles. Even after the washing cycle is finished, detergent remains on the clothes, so fine bubbles are generated during the rinsing cycle as well, allowing surfactants to adhere to the fine bubbles, and the fine bubbles with the attached surfactants are collected in the second separation tank 11. In this way, by generating fine bubbles in the detergent water, the circulating water during the rinsing process contains these fine bubbles. Furthermore, by generating fine bubbles in the circulating water in the second separation tank 11, the fine bubbles to which the surfactant adheres float to the surface of the liquid in the second separation tank 11, separating the fine bubbles to which the surfactant adheres from the water. The generation of fine bubbles in the detergent water is continued until the end of the washing cycle, similar to the end of the washing cycle.

[0028] At the end of the rinsing process, the control unit 20 controls the three-way valve 10 so that flow path a5 and flow path a8 are in communication, and controls the three-way valve 12 so that flow path a6 is in communication with the drain. As a result, the water from which the surfactant-coated microbubbles have been separated from the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 is discharged towards the drain. In this way, the surfactant-coated microbubbles are retained in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11. The water discharged from the drain is water from which dirt has been removed and is relatively clean water (purified water).

[0029] At the start of the next washing cycle, the control unit 20 controls the three-way valve 8 to direct the detergent water to the first separation tank 9, and the three-way valve 10 to direct the detergent water to the washing tub 1. This allows the fine bubbles with surfactant attached, held in the first separation tank 9, to be supplied to the washing tub 1. The control unit 20 also controls the three-way valve 8 to direct the detergent water to the second separation tank 11, and the three-way valves 10 and 12 to direct the detergent water to the washing tub 1. This allows the fine bubbles with surfactant attached, held in the second separation tank 11, to be supplied to the washing tub 1. In this way, the supply of fine bubbles with surfactant attached from the first separation tank 9 and the supply of fine bubbles with surfactant attached from the second separation tank 11 are performed alternately. However, the configuration is not limited to alternate supply, and the supply from the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 may be performed simultaneously. Alternatively, at this time, all of the fine bubbles from the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 may be supplied to the washing tub 1, or some of the fine bubbles from the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 may be supplied along with new detergent at the same time to mix the detergent and the fine bubbles.

[0030] As described above, the washing machine 100A of the first embodiment comprises a washing tub 1, a first means (circulation pump 3, air pump 5, air mixing path 7) for applying fine bubbles to the wastewater after the washing process, a first separation tank 9 for separating and holding the fine bubbles from the wastewater, a second means (circulation pump 2, air pump 4, air mixing path 6) for applying fine bubbles to the circulating detergent water during the rinsing process, and a second separation tank 11 for separating and holding the fine bubbles, and supplies fine bubbles from the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 to the washing tub 1 (see Figure 1). With this, by separating the surfactant after the washing process is completed, the decrease in surfactant concentration during the washing process can be suppressed and washing performance can be maintained (proper cleaning can be performed). In addition, by separating the surfactant during the rinsing process, the surfactant concentration can be reduced, so that washing can be done with clean water, the rinsing effect is improved and the number of rinses can be reduced.

[0031] (Second Embodiment) Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine according to the second embodiment. The operation of separating water and fine bubbles during the washing cycle is the same as in the first embodiment shown in Figure 1. Only the differences from Figure 1 will be explained here.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the washing machine 100B is equipped with a contaminant particle removal means 13 in the flow path a7 (path) connecting the three-way valve 10 and the washing tub 1. This contaminant particle removal means 13 removes contaminant particles such as clothing fibers contained in fine bubbles and is composed of a fine-mesh filter (mesh member). The contaminant particle removal means 13 is not limited to a filter, but may also be a means of separating and removing contaminant particles by centrifugal force.

[0033] Furthermore, the contaminant particle removal means 13 is configured to be easily accessible to the user and allow for regular maintenance. For example, the filter that captures contaminant particles can be removed from the washing machine 100B housing and can be reattached after cleaning.

[0034] In the second embodiment, at the start of the next washing cycle, the fine bubbles held by the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 pass through the contaminant particle removal means 13, thereby removing contaminant particles such as clothing-derived fibers contained in the fine bubbles. As a result, fine bubbles from which contaminant particles have been removed can be supplied to the washing tank 1.

[0035] (Third embodiment) Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine according to the third embodiment. Note that the washing machine 100C of the third embodiment is the same as the second embodiment shown in Figure 3 in terms of the separation of water and fine bubbles during the washing operation and the removal of contaminants by the contaminant removal means 13. Only the differences from Figure 3 will be explained here.

[0036] As shown in Figure 4, the washing machine 100C has a configuration that adds a water storage tank 14 (tank) to the configuration of the second embodiment, and replaces the three-way valve 12 with a four-way valve 15. The washing machine 100C also includes a flow path a9 connecting the water storage tank 14 and the four-way valve 15, and a flow path a10 connecting the water storage tank 14 and the washing tub 1.

[0037] The water storage tank 14 has a space for storing the detergent water discharged from the second separation tank 11. The water storage tank 14 is also connected to a drain that discharges outside the machine. Although not shown in the illustration, a drain valve is provided on the drain side of the water storage tank 14.

[0038] The four-way valve 15 has the function of switching the flow path to the drain, the washing tub 1, or the water storage tank 14, and the flow path is switched and controlled by the control unit 21.

[0039] The washing machine 100C is configured to allow the user easy access to the fine bubbles held in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11, enabling regular maintenance. Furthermore, the washing machine 100C is configured to allow the user to remove and dispose of the fine bubbles held in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11. This prevents unintentional discharge of surfactants outside the machine, thereby reducing the environmental impact.

[0040] Furthermore, the washing machine 100C is configured to allow the user to choose whether to discard or reuse the fine bubbles held in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 for washing. For example, a button to select whether to discard or reuse can be provided on the control panel of the washing machine 100C. This reduces the environmental burden by discarding the fine bubbles, and reduces the amount of detergent used by reusing the fine bubbles for washing, thereby reducing the environmental burden.

[0041] At the end of the rinsing cycle, all or part of the purified water (water from which the surfactant has been separated) in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 may be discharged through the drain, or stored in the water storage tank 14. The water stored in the water storage tank 14 may be used to automatically clean the drying filter in the washing machine 100C before the end of the washing cycle, or it may be supplied to the washing tub 1 via the flow path a10 at the start of the next wash cycle. In addition, by providing a heater in the water storage tank 14 and warming the water in the washing tub 1, the washing performance during the next wash cycle can be improved. By utilizing the water in the water storage tank 14 in this way, a water-saving effect can be obtained.

[0042] (Fourth Embodiment) Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine according to the fourth embodiment. The washing machine 10D of the fourth embodiment has the same configuration as the washing machine 100A of the first embodiment, with the addition of a fine foam storage tank 16, a two-way valve 17, and a suction pump 18.

[0043] The microbubble storage tank 16 is a tank for storing microbubbles to which surfactant has adhered, accumulated in the second separation tank 11, and is connected to the second separation tank 11 via a flow path a11. The microbubble storage tank 16 is also connected to the first separation tank 9 via a flow path a12. Furthermore, the microbubble storage tank 16 is connected to a flow path a5, which connects the first separation tank 9 to the three-way valve 10, via a flow path a13. A two-way valve 17, whose opening and closing is controlled by the control unit 22, is provided in this flow path a13. In this embodiment, the microbubble supply means is configured by the flow path a13 and the two-way valve 17.

[0044] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the fine foam recovery means. Note that the first means, consisting of the circulation pump 3, air pump 5, and air mixing path 7, is not shown in Figure 6. As shown in Figure 6, the microbubble recovery means is comprised of a suction pump 18. The suction pump 18 creates negative pressure in the microbubble storage tank 16 and sucks in microbubbles with surfactant attached from the first separation tank 9 through the channel a12 into the microbubble storage tank 16. The suction pump 18 also creates negative pressure in the microbubble storage tank 16 and sucks in microbubbles with surfactant attached from the second separation tank 11 through the channel a11 into the microbubble storage tank 16. The suction pump 18 is controlled ON / OFF by the control unit 22.

[0045] In the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11, fine bubbles 35 with surfactant attached to the liquid surface accumulate. When the suction pump 18 is driven, creating negative pressure inside the fine bubble storage tank 16, these surfactant-attached fine bubbles 35 are sucked in through channels a11 and a12 and collected in the fine bubble storage tank 16.

[0046] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing another configuration of the microbubble recovery means. As shown in Figure 7, the microbubble recovery means is comprised of an overflow channel 38. This overflow channel 38 is formed at the upper end of the first separation tank 9 (second separation tank 11), and the downstream end of the overflow channel 38 is connected to the upper part of the microbubble storage tank 16.

[0047] In the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11, fine bubbles 35 with surfactant attached to the liquid surface S accumulate. As the accumulation of fine bubbles 35 with surfactant attached to the liquid surface S gradually increases, an overflow channel 38 is provided so that the fine bubbles 35 with surfactant attached overflow through the overflow channel 38. By providing a fine bubble storage tank 16 beyond the overflow channel 38, the fine bubbles 35 with surfactant attached can be retained. As a result, only purified water remains in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11, and the fine bubbles 35 with surfactant attached can be retained in the fine bubble storage tank 16.

[0048] At the start of the washing process, the control unit 22 prevents fine bubbles from being mixed into the detergent water, and sets the three-way valve 8 to guide the detergent water to the first separation tank 9, and the three-way valve 10 to guide the detergent water into the washing tub 1. The washing process is carried out by circulating the detergent water between the washing tub 1 and the first separation tank 9 in this way.

[0049] At the end of the washing cycle, the control unit 22 opens the three-way valve 8 to guide the detergent water into the first separation tank 9 and closes the three-way valve 10, thereby storing the detergent water in the washing tub 1 in the first separation tank 9. Subsequently, the circulation pump 3 and air pump 5 are driven to generate fine bubbles in the detergent water, thereby generating fine bubbles in the detergent water in the first separation tank 9. As a result, the fine bubbles to which surfactants have adhered float to the surface of the liquid in the first separation tank 9, separating the fine bubbles with surfactants and other substances from the water. This generation of fine bubbles in the detergent water continues until the end of operation.

[0050] At the end of the washing cycle, when all the detergent water in the washing tub 1 has been stored in the first separation tank 9, the rinsing cycle is started. At the start of the rinsing cycle, the control unit 22 supplies water to the washing tub 1. The control unit 22 then switches the flow path so that the three-way valve 8 directs the detergent water to the second separation tank 11, and the three-way valves 10 and 12 direct the water into the washing tub 1. In addition, by generating fine bubbles in the detergent water (circulating detergent water and rinsing water), the circulating water during the rinsing cycle contains fine bubbles. By generating fine bubbles in the circulating water in the second separation tank 11 in this way, the fine bubbles to which surfactants have adhered float to the surface of the liquid in the second separation tank 11, allowing the fine bubbles to which surfactants have adhered to be separated from the water. The generation of fine bubbles in the detergent water continues until the end of the operation.

[0051] At the end of the rinsing process, a microbubble recovery means (suction pump 18) is used to create negative pressure inside the microbubble storage tank 16, thereby recovering the microbubbles in the first separation tank 9 into the microbubble storage tank 16 through the flow path a12. Similarly, by creating negative pressure inside the microbubble storage tank 16 using the microbubble recovery means (suction pump 18), the microbubbles in the second separation tank 11 are recovered into the microbubble storage tank 16 through the flow path a11. As a result, purified water is retained in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11, and microbubbles with surfactants attached are retained in the microbubble storage tank 28.

[0052] Furthermore, at the end of the rinsing cycle, all or part of the purified water (water from which the surfactant has been separated) in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 may be discharged through the drain. Alternatively, the purified water (water from which the surfactant has been separated) in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 may be used to automatically clean the drying filter in the washing machine 100D before the end of the washing cycle, or it may be supplied to the washing tub 1 at the start of the next wash cycle. Additionally, by providing heaters in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 to warm the water in the washing tub 1, the washing performance during the next wash cycle can be improved.

[0053] At the start of the next wash cycle, the control unit 22 sets the three-way valve 8 to guide detergent water to the first separation tank 9, sets the three-way valve 10 to guide detergent water to the washing tub 1, and opens the two-way valve 17. As a result, when the detergent water flows through the flow path a5, a negative pressure is created inside the microbubble storage tank 16, and the microbubbles to which the surfactant has adhered in the microbubble storage tank 16 are drawn in through the flow path a13, and the microbubbles are supplied to the washing tub 1 to perform the wash cycle. At this time, all of the microbubbles may be supplied to the washing tub 1, or some of the microbubbles may be mixed with detergent and supplied together.

[0054] The washing machine 100D of the fourth embodiment includes a washing tub 1, a first means (circulation pump 3, air pump 5, air mixing path 7) for applying fine bubbles to the wastewater after the washing process, a first separation tank 9 for separating and holding the fine bubbles from the wastewater, a second means (circulation pump 2, air pump 4, air mixing path 6) for applying fine bubbles to the circulating detergent water during the rinsing process, and a second separation tank 11 for separating and holding the fine bubbles. It also includes a suction pump 18 (fine bubble recovery means) for recovering the fine bubbles in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11, a fine bubble storage tank 16 for holding the fine bubbles recovered by the suction pump 18, and a fine bubble supply means (two-way valve 17 and flow path a13) for supplying the fine bubbles held in the fine bubble storage tank 16 to the washing tub 1 by creating negative pressure in the fine bubble storage tank 16. With this, by separating the surfactant after the washing process is completed, the decrease in surfactant concentration during the washing process can be suppressed and washing performance can be maintained. Furthermore, by separating the surfactant during the rinsing process, the surfactant concentration can be reduced, allowing for washing with clean water, improving the effectiveness of rinsing, and reducing the number of rinses.

[0055] Furthermore, the washing machine 100D is equipped with a suction pump 18 (microbubble recovery means) that collects the microbubbles in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 into a microbubble storage tank 16 that holds the microbubbles by sucking in air. This makes it possible to easily separate the surfactant and water in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11.

[0056] (Fifth embodiment) Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment. The washing machine 100E of the fifth embodiment operates similarly to the fourth embodiment in Figure 5 in separating water and fine bubbles during the washing cycle. Here, only the differences from Figure 5 will be explained.

[0057] As shown in Figure 8, the washing machine 100E is equipped with a contaminant particle removal means 13 in the flow path a7 (path) connecting the three-way valve 12 and the washing tub 1. This contaminant particle removal means 13 removes contaminant particles such as clothing fibers contained in fine bubbles, and is composed of a fine-mesh filter (mesh member). The contaminant particle removal means 13 is not limited to a filter, but may also be a means of separating and removing contaminant particles by centrifugal force.

[0058] At the start of the washing process, the microbubbles held in the microbubble storage tank 16 pass through the contaminant particle removal means 13, thereby removing contaminant particles such as clothing fibers contained in the microbubbles. As a result, the microbubbles from which contaminant particles have been removed can be supplied to the washing tub 1.

[0059] Furthermore, the contaminated particle removal means 13 is configured to be easily accessible to the user and to allow for regular maintenance.

[0060] (Sixth Embodiment) Figure 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the washing machine according to the sixth embodiment. The washing machine 100F of the sixth embodiment is similar to the fifth embodiment in Figure 8 in the operation of separating water and fine bubbles during the washing cycle and the removal of contaminants by the contaminant removal means 13. Here, only the differences from Figure 6 will be explained.

[0061] As shown in Figure 9, the washing machine 100F has a configuration that adds a water storage tank 14 to the configuration of the fifth embodiment and replaces the three-way valve 12 with a four-way valve 15. The four-way valve 15 has the function of switching the flow path to the drain, the washing tub 1, or the water storage tank 14, and the flow path is switched and controlled by the control unit 23. In this way, the washing machine 100F is configured to guide the detergent water discharged from the second separation tank 11 to the drain, the washing tub 1, or the water storage tank 14.

[0062] At the end of the rinsing cycle, all or part of the purified water in the first separation tank 9 and the second separation tank 11 may be discharged through the drain, or stored in the water storage tank 14. The water stored in the water storage tank 14 may be used to automatically clean the drying filter inside the washing machine 100F before the end of the washing cycle, or it may be supplied to the washing tub 1 at the start of the next wash cycle. In addition, by providing a heater in the water storage tank 14 and warming the water in the washing tub 1, the washing performance during the next wash cycle can be improved.

[0063] Furthermore, the washing machine 100F is configured to allow the user easy access to the microbubbles held in the microbubble storage tank 16, enabling regular maintenance. The washing machine 100F is also configured to allow the user to remove and discard the microbubbles held in the microbubble storage tank. For example, the microbubble storage tank 16 can be removed and detached from the washing machine 100F. The washing machine 100F is also configured to allow the user to choose whether to discard the microbubbles held in the microbubble storage tank 16 or reuse them for washing.

[0064] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are included. For example, in the first to sixth embodiments, the case in which a circulation pump 2 and an air pump 4 provided between the washing tub 1 and the three-way valve 8 are used as means to generate fine bubbles during the rinsing process was described as an example, but a configuration in which a circulation pump, an air pump and an air mixing path are provided in the second separation tub 11 as a second means, similar to the first separation tub 9, is also possible. [Explanation of symbols]

[0065] 1. Washing tub 2. Circulation pump (second method) 3. Circulation pump (first method) 4. Air pump (secondary method) 5. Air pump (first method) 6. Air Incorporation Route (Second Method) 7. Air Incorporation Route (First Method) 8,10,12 Three-way valve 9. First separation tank 11. Second Separation Tank 13. Means for removing contaminated particles 14. Water storage tanks (tanks) 15. Four-way valve 16. Microbubble storage tank 17 Two-way valve (means for supplying fine bubbles) 18. Suction pump (means for collecting fine bubbles) 20, 21, 22, 23 Control Unit 25 microbubbles 35. Microbubbles with surfactants attached. 38 Overflow channel (means for recovering fine bubbles) 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, 100F Washing Machine a7 Flow path (route) a13 Flow channel (microbubble supply means)

Claims

1. A washing machine comprising a washing tub, a first means for applying fine bubbles to the wastewater after the washing process, a first separation tank for separating and retaining the fine bubbles from the wastewater, a second means for applying fine bubbles to the circulating detergent water during the rinsing process, and a second separation tank for separating and retaining the fine bubbles, characterized in that fine bubbles are supplied from the first separation tank and the second separation tank to the washing tub.

2. In the washing machine according to claim 1, A washing machine characterized by providing a means for removing contaminated particles in the path that supplies fine bubbles from the first separation tank and the second separation tank to the washing tank.

3. In the washing machine according to claim 2, A washing machine characterized by having a tank for storing water after separating fine bubbles, and being able to wash clothes by supplying the water stored in the tank to the washing tub.

4. In the washing machine according to claim 3, A washing machine characterized in that the user can remove and discard the fine bubbles held in the first separation tank and the second separation tank.

5. In the washing machine according to claim 4, A washing machine characterized in that the user can choose whether to supply the fine bubbles held in the first and second separation tanks to the washing tub for washing, or to mix them with newly added detergent and use them for washing.

6. A washing machine comprising: a washing tub; a first means for applying microbubbles to the wastewater after the washing process; a first separation tank for separating and retaining the microbubbles from the wastewater; a second means for applying microbubbles to the circulating detergent water during the rinsing process; and a second separation tank for separating and retaining the microbubbles; a microbubble recovery means for recovering the microbubbles in the first and second separation tanks; a microbubble storage tank for holding the microbubbles recovered by the microbubble recovery means; and a microbubble supply means for supplying the microbubbles held in the microbubble storage tank to the washing tub by creating a negative pressure in the microbubble storage tank.

7. In the washing machine according to claim 6, A washing machine characterized by providing a means for removing contaminant particles in the path that supplies fine foam from the fine foam storage tank to the washing tub.

8. In the washing machine according to claim 7, A washing machine characterized by having a tank for storing water after separating fine bubbles, and being able to wash clothes by supplying the water stored in the tank to the washing tub.

9. In the washing machine according to claim 8, A washing machine characterized by comprising a microbubble recovery means for recovering the microbubbles in the first separation tank and the second separation tank into a microbubble storage tank that holds the microbubbles by drawing in air.

10. In the washing machine according to claim 8, A washing machine characterized by comprising a microbubble recovery means for overflowing the microbubbles accumulated in the first separation tank and the second separation tank and recovering them in a microbubble storage tank that holds the microbubbles.

11. In the washing machine according to claim 9 or claim 10, A washing machine characterized in that the user can remove and discard the microbubbles held in the microbubble storage tank.

12. In the washing machine according to claim 11, A washing machine characterized in that the user can choose whether to wash by supplying fine bubbles held in a fine bubble storage tank to the washing tub, or to wash using detergent.

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