washing machine

Abstract

This disclosure provides a washing machine that can suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy with a simple configuration. [Solution] The washing machine in this disclosure comprises a rotatable washing tub, a motor for rotating the washing tub, an outer tub housing the washing tub, an air trap provided on the first direction side as viewed from the drain port of the outer tub and communicating with the outer tub, and a water level sensing means communicating with the air trap via a hose. The air trap is provided with a connection part for the hose and a partition part below the connection part that protrudes into the interior of the air trap from the side on the first direction side.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , ,

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a dewatering and washing machine that can suppress water from entering a tube connecting an air trap and a water level switch. This dewatering and washing machine includes a drain outlet of a water receiving tank, an air trap provided adjacent to the drain outlet, and a check valve that closes both the drain outlet and the lower end opening of the air trap.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides a washing machine that can suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy with a simple configuration.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The washing machine according to the first aspect of the present disclosure includes a rotatable washing tub, a motor that rotationally drives the washing tub, an outer tub that stores the washing tub, an air trap provided on the first direction side as viewed from the drain outlet of the outer tub and communicating with the outer tub, and water level detection means that communicates with the air trap via a hose. The air trap is provided with a partition portion that protrudes from the side surface on the first direction side toward the inside of the air trap at a connection portion with the hose and below the connection portion.

[0006] A washing machine according to a second aspect of the present disclosure comprises a rotatable washing tub, a motor for rotating the washing tub, an outer tub housing the washing tub, an air trap provided on the first direction side as viewed from the drain port of the outer tub and communicating with the outer tub, and a water level sensing means communicating with the air trap via a hose, wherein the air trap has a branched first chamber and a second chamber, the first chamber is provided with a connection part for the hose, and the second chamber is provided on the first direction side of the first chamber. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] In the washing machine of the first embodiment of this disclosure, even when air is blown into the air trap due to the rotation of the washing tub, the partition prevents water droplets from entering the connection and hose. Therefore, a simple configuration can suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy.

[0008] In the washing machine of the second embodiment of this disclosure, even when air is blown into the air trap due to the rotation of the washing tub, water droplets are trapped in the second chamber, thus preventing water droplets from entering the connection and hose. Therefore, a simple configuration can suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Diagram showing the internal structure of the washing machine according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] Diagram showing the outer tank viewed from below. [Figure 3] Perspective view showing the lower part of the outer tank [Figure 4] Perspective view showing the lower part of the outer tank [Figure 5] VV cross-sectional view in Figure 2 [Figure 6] Enlarged view of the air trap in Figure 5. [Figure 7] Diagram showing the outer tank as viewed from the lower left. [Figure 8] Perspective view of the outer tank, seen from below along the air trap. [Figure 9] Diagram showing an air trap in the dewatering process. [Figure 10] Cross-sectional view showing an air trap according to another embodiment 1. [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view showing an air trap according to another embodiment 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived this disclosure, washing machine technology required the detection of the water level in the outer tub for various control purposes. Therefore, it was common practice in the industry to design products that included an air trap in which the air pressure fluctuated according to the water level in the outer tub, connected a water level detection means to the air trap via a hose, and detected the water level in the outer tub by detecting the pressure of the air trapped in the air trap using the water level detection means. Under these circumstances, the inventors were inspired by the fact that if water entered the connection part of the air trap and the hose connecting the connection part to the water level detection means, it may not be possible to accurately capture the change in air pressure in the air trap due to the rise in the water level in the outer tub, and thus the water level may not be accurately detected. This led them to conceive of a method to suppress water ingress into the connection part and the hose. In realizing their idea, the inventors discovered that using movable parts such as check valves to suppress water ingress into the connection and hose presented challenges, including clogging of the movable parts due to lint and soap residue during washing, malfunctions due to aging, and concerns about an increase in the number of parts and assembly steps. To solve these problems, they arrived at the subject matter of this disclosure. This disclosure provides a washing machine that can suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy with a simple configuration.

[0011] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary details may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid the following explanation becoming unnecessarily verbose and to facilitate understanding for those skilled in the art. Note that the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] [1-1. Configuration] [1-1-1. Overall Configuration of Washing Machine] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the internal structure of a washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1. In the figure, reference symbol X indicates the left direction of the washing machine 1, reference symbol Y indicates the front direction of the washing machine 1, and reference symbol Z indicates the upward direction of the washing machine 1.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 has a housing 10. The housing 10 has a hollow substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and constitutes the outer surface of the washing machine 1. A circular opening, the extraction port 11, is formed in the front surface of the housing 10. The extraction port 11 is opened and closed by a lid member 12 attached to the front surface of the housing 10 via a hinge.

[0015] Inside the housing 10, a washing tub 20 is provided. The washing tub 20 is a substantially cylindrical basket having an opening 21 facing the extraction port 11. The washing tub 20 accommodates clothes introduced through the extraction port 11. A plurality of holes through which water and air can pass are formed in the washing tub 20. The washing tub 20 is rotatably supported by a motor 23 via a rotating shaft 22. When the motor 23 operates, it rotationally drives the washing tub 20. In the present embodiment, the opening 21 of the washing tub 20 opens obliquely forward upward. That is, the washing machine 1 is a so-called drum-type washing machine.

[0016] The washing tub 20, the pivot shaft 22, and the motor 23 are attached to the outer tub 24. The outer tub 24 is a container having an opening 25 toward the outlet 11, and houses the washing tub 20 inside. The outer tub 24 is made of, for example, polypropylene resin. The motor 23 is attached to the rear surface of the outer tub 24. The pivot shaft 22 is provided penetrating the rear surface of the outer tub 24. The washing tub 20 is supported inside the outer tub 24 by being attached to the pivot shaft 22, and rotates relative to the outer tub 24 and the housing 10 by the operation of the motor 23.

[0017] The outer tank 24 is pivotably mounted to the housing 10 via a suspension spring 13 and a damper 14. The suspension spring 13 is a tension spring suspended downward from the top of the housing 10. The lower end of the suspension spring 13 is attached to the top of the outer tank 24. The damper 14 is an extendable rod-shaped device having a cylinder and a piston. One end of the damper 14 is attached to the bottom surface of the housing 10, and the other end is attached to the bottom of the outer tank 24. The damper 14 dampens vibrations of the outer tank 24 by generating frictional force between the cylinder and the piston.

[0018] A water inlet 15 is provided on the top surface of the housing 10. The water inlet 15 is an opening that connects to an external water supply via a water supply hose (not shown). The water inlet 15 is connected to a water supply unit 16. In other words, external tap water flows into the water supply unit 16 through the water inlet 15.

[0019] The water supply unit 16 is a container located inside the housing 10, above the outer tank 24. The water supply unit 16 is connected to the outer tank 24 via a first hose 17. That is, tap water flowing into the water supply unit 16 flows into the outer tank 24 via the first hose 17. The water supply unit 16 also contains treatment agents such as detergent, fabric softener, and bleach added by the user. Therefore, the treatment agents contained inside the water supply unit 16 are mixed with the tap water flowing into the water supply unit 16 and then flow into the outer tank 24.

[0020] A drain port 24A is provided near the lower end of the outer tank 24. The drain port 24A is an opening that connects the inside and outside of the outer tank 24. A second hose 26 is connected to the drain port 24A. The second hose 26 is a hose that branches in four directions, each having an open first connection port 26A, a second connection port 26B, a third connection port 26C, and a fourth connection port 26D. The first connection port 26A is connected to the drain port 24A. The second hose 26 is made of, for example, ethylene propylene rubber.

[0021] The second connection port 26B is connected to the air trap 50. More specifically, the second connection port 26B is connected to an opening 51 formed at the lower end of the air trap 50. That is, the drain port 24A communicates with the air trap 50 via the second hose 26. One end of the fourth hose 60 is connected to the air trap 50. The fourth hose 60 is, for example, a hose made of polyvinyl chloride. The other end of the fourth hose 60 is closed by being connected to the water level detection means 70. That is, the air trap 50 communicates with the water level detection means 70 via the fourth hose 60. The water level detection means 70 can detect the pressure inside the air trap 50. The water level detection means 70 is, for example, a pressure sensor or a pressure switch. The water level detection means 70 is located in the upper part of the interior of the housing 10. The water level detection means 70 is connected to a control board (not shown) and transmits a detection signal to the control board. Details of the air trap 50 will be described later. The fourth hose 60 corresponds to an example of a "hose" in this disclosure. The location where the water level detection means 70 is provided is not limited to the upper part of the housing 10, but may be any location above the connection part 54 described later, such as the central part inside the housing 10.

[0022] The third connection port 26C is connected to the solenoid valve 27. The solenoid valve 27 is a valve that is opened and closed by electronic control. The solenoid valve 27 is installed between the second hose 26 and the drainage path 27A for draining water to the outside of the washing machine 1. When the solenoid valve 27 is open, the water from the outer tub 24 is drained through the drain port 24A, the second hose 26, the solenoid valve 27, and the drainage path 27A.

[0023] The fourth connection port 26D is connected to the pump 28. The pump 28 sends the water that has flowed into the second hose 26 from the drain port 24A to the third hose 28A. The third hose 28A communicates with the inside of the outer tub 24. In other words, when the pump 28 is driven, the water inside the outer tub 24 passes through the drain port 24A, the second hose 26, the pump 28, and the third hose 28A, and returns to the inside of the washing tub 20 through the inside of the outer tub 24.

[0024] Figure 2 shows the outer tank 24 viewed from below. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the lower part of the outer tank 24, showing the second hose 26 attached to the drain port 24A and the opening 51 of the air trap 50. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the lower part of the outer tank 24, showing the second hose 26 removed. As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the air trap 50 is located behind the drain port 24A. Hereinafter, the direction in which the air trap 50 is installed, viewed from the drain port 24A, will be referred to as the first direction D1. In a plan view, the first direction D1 is the direction in which water and air flow through the second hose 26 towards the air trap 50 from the drain port 24A. In this embodiment, the first direction D1 is diagonally to the left and rear.

[0025] [1-1-2. Air trap configuration] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the VV section in Figure 2, showing the outer tank 24 in a cross-section along the first direction D1 and the vertical direction, passing through the center of the drain port 24A and the opening 51. Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the air trap 50 in Figure 5. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the air trap 50 may have a concave structure that is recessed from bottom to top. An opening 51 is formed across the entire lower end of the air trap 50. The space formed by the drain port 24A, the second hose 26, and the air trap 50 is formed in a roughly U-shape, starting from the drain port 24A side and extending downwards, in the first direction D1, and upwards towards the air top 50. The first direction D1 side within the air trap 50 corresponds to the outside of the roughly U-shape (i.e., the outer circumference of the roughly U-shaped space). In this embodiment, the air trap 50 is formed integrally with the outer tank 24. However, the air trap 50 may be composed of separate components from the outer tank 24.

[0026] The air trap 50 is provided with a first side surface 53. The first side surface 53 is the side surface on the first direction D1 side of the air trap 50, that is, the side surface on the left rear side. In this embodiment, the first side surface 53 includes a lower part 53A, a middle part 53B, and an upper part 53C. The lower part 53A is located below the first side surface 53 and is slightly inclined from the vertical direction in the direction in which the first direction D1 side is located upward. The middle part 53B is inclined upward from the upper end of the lower part 53A in the direction in which the upper side is located opposite to the first direction D1. The upper part 53C extends upward from the upper end of the middle part 53B, slightly inclined in the direction in which the first direction D1 side is located upward. The first side surface 53 may also include a horizontal portion. The first side surface 53 is an example of the "side surface on the first direction side" in this disclosure.

[0027] Furthermore, the air trap 50 is provided with a second side surface 56. The second side surface 56 is the side of the air trap 50 that is opposite to the first direction D1, i.e., the right front side surface. The second side surface 56 faces the first side surface 53. The second side surface 56 is inclined approximately parallel to the lower part 53A and the upper part 53C in the direction in which the first direction D1 is located upward. As described above, since the middle part 53B is inclined in the direction in which the upper part is located opposite to the first direction D1, the distance K1 along the first direction D1 between the second side surface 56 and the upper part 53C is smaller than the distance K2 along the first direction D1 between the second side surface 56 and the lower part 56A.

[0028] A connecting portion 54 is provided at the upper part 53C. The connecting portion 54 is the part of the air trap 50 that is connected to the fourth hose 60. In detail, the connecting portion 54 protrudes outward from the air trap 50. An opening is formed in the connecting portion 54 to connect the inside and outside of the air trap 50. One end of the fourth hose 60 is connected to the connecting portion 54 by being placed over it. Note that in the air trap 50, all parts other than the opening 51 and the connecting portion 54 are closed. In this embodiment, the fourth hose 60 is attached to the connecting portion 54 provided on the air trap 50, but the connecting portion 54 and the fourth hose 60 may be formed integrally.

[0029] Figure 7 shows the outer tank 24 viewed from the lower left. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the outer tank 24 viewed from below along the air trap 50. As shown in Figures 5 to 8, a partition portion 55 is provided on the first side surface 53. The partition portion 55 is a projection extending from the first side surface 53 toward the space inside the partition portion 55. In detail, the partition portion 55 extends downward from the lower end of the upper portion 53C on the first side surface 53, in a direction along the upper portion 53C. That is, the partition portion 55 extends from below the connection portion 54 on the first side surface 53 toward the interior of the air trap 50. The position of the upper end of the partition portion 55 may be set between the lower end of the upper portion 53C and the lower end of the middle portion 53B, i.e., any position on the middle portion 53B, as long as a second chamber S2 of sufficient size for trapping water droplets T is formed as described later. In this embodiment, the partition portion 55 has a plate-like structure and, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, is formed without gaps throughout the entire air trap 50 in the direction intersecting the first direction D1 in the horizontal direction (the direction intersecting the plane of the paper in Figures 5 and 6). Furthermore, the length of the partition portion 55 in the direction protruding into the interior of the target space S is such that it is easy to effectively shield water droplets if it is 10 mm or more, and easy to mold if it is 30 mm or less. In this embodiment, the length of the partition portion 55 in the direction protruding into the interior of the target space S is set to 20 mm. However, the length of the partition portion 55 in the direction protruding into the interior of the target space S is not particularly limited as long as a second chamber S2 of sufficient height for trapping water droplets T is formed, as will be described later. Also, in this embodiment, the partition portion 55 is formed integrally with the air trap 50. It is desirable that the lower end of the partition portion 55 be located above the lower end of the lower part 53A of the first side surface 53. It is preferable that the lower end of the partition portion 55 be positioned above the lower end of the lower part 53A of the first side surface 53, in terms of moldability and ensuring a distance from the liquid level L2 during washing.If the lower end of the partition 55 is located below the lower end of the lower part 53A of the first side surface 53, the liquid level L2 may fluctuate vertically due to vibrations of the outer tub 24 during washing, or if the detergent components contained in the washing water in the outer tub 24 or washing tub 20 foam abnormally during the washing process, causing foam to accumulate near L2 and causing L2 to move vertically. In such cases, the partition 55 may come into contact with the water surface of L2 or the foam near L2, causing the pressure inside the air trap 50 to fluctuate and potentially leading to a false detection of the water level of the outer tub 24 by the water level detection means 70. In this embodiment, the distance between the lower end of the partition 55 and the opening 51 at the lower end (i.e., the lower end of the lower part 53A of the first side surface 53) is 23 mm. If the distance between the lower end of the partition 55 and the opening 51 at the lower end is 10 mm or more, it is easier to avoid contact between the partition 55 and the water surface of L2 or the foam near L2.

[0030] The partition 55 divides the air trap 50 into a first chamber S1, partitioned off on the opposite side of the first direction D1, i.e., to the right and slightly forward, and a second chamber S2, partitioned off on the side of the first direction D1, i.e., to the left and slightly backward. The first chamber S1 and the second chamber S2 are branched from each other. In this embodiment, the first chamber S1 and the second chamber S2 branch upward. In other words, in the space formed by the drain port 24A, the second hose 26, and the air trap 50, the first chamber S1 and the second chamber S2 branch in a direction from downstream to upstream, when the drain port 24A is considered the upstream side and the air trap 50 is considered the downstream side.

[0031] The first room S1 is a space partitioned off on the opposite side of the first direction D1 when viewed from the partition 55. The upper part 53C of the first side surface 53 faces the first room S1. In other words, the first room S1 is in direct communication with the connecting part 54. More specifically, the first room S1 is in communication with the connecting part 54 at the upper part 53C of the first side surface 53. The lower side of the first room S1 is open across its entire length.

[0032] The second chamber S2 is a space partitioned off in the first direction D1 when viewed from the partition 55. The height dimension of the second chamber S2 is the same as the vertical length of the partition 55. The lower part 53A and the middle part 53B of the first side surface 53 face the second chamber S2. The upper part 53C does not face the second chamber S2. In other words, the second chamber S2 is not directly connected to the connection part 54 formed on the upper part 53C. Also, the second chamber S2 is not connected to a hose or the like. The lower side of the second chamber S2 is open across its entire length, and the areas other than the opening on the lower side are closed.

[0033] [1-2. Operation] The operation of washing machine 1, configured as described above, will be explained below.

[0034] Washing machine 1 typically performs the following steps in a single wash cycle: washing, rinsing, and spinning. The washing cycle involves storing a mixture of tap water and detergent in the outer tub 24, and then driving the motor 23 to rotate the washing tub 20, thereby agitating and washing the laundry. The rinsing cycle involves supplying tap water to the outer tub 24 and driving the motor 23 to rotate the washing tub 20, rinsing the laundry of any detergent residue with tap water. The spinning cycle involves rotating the washing tub 20 at high speed by driving the motor 23 without supplying tap water to the outer tub 24, thereby dewatering the laundry using centrifugal force. When switching between each cycle, washing machine 1 opens the solenoid valve 27 to drain the liquid from the outer tub 24, and then closes the solenoid valve 27 again.

[0035] The following sections will explain the air traps 50 in the washing and rinsing processes, and the air traps 50 in the dewatering process, respectively.

[0036] [1-2-1. Air traps in the washing and rinsing processes] When the washing machine 1 performs a washing or rinsing cycle, as described above, liquid is stored inside the outer tub 24. Therefore, as shown by the dashed line L1 in Figure 5, a liquid level L1 is formed inside the outer tub 24 during the washing and rinsing cycles.

[0037] Furthermore, as described above, in the air trap 50, all parts except the opening 51 at the lower end and the connection part 54 are closed, and the fourth hose 60, one end of which is connected to the connection part 54, has its other end closed by the water level detection means 70. Therefore, when the second hose 26 is filled with liquid, there is no escape route for the air in the air trap 50, and the air in the air trap 50 is compressed by the liquid, causing the air pressure in the air trap 50 to rise. Consequently, the air pressure in the air trap 50 and the pressure of the liquid filled in the second hose 26 balance each other, and a liquid level L2 is formed in the second hose 26 or the air trap 50. In the example in Figure 5, as shown by the dashed line L2, the liquid level L2 is formed in the second hose 26.

[0038] Here, the air pressure inside the air trap 50 is equivalent to the pressure at the liquid level L2, and the pressure at the liquid level L2 is determined by the height of the liquid level L1 inside the outer tub 24, i.e., the water level inside the outer tub 24. More specifically, the pressure at the liquid level L2 and the air pressure inside the air trap become high pressure when the height of the liquid level L1 is high, and low pressure when the height of the liquid level L1 is low. Conversely, the air pressure inside the air trap 50 corresponds to the height of the liquid level L1. In this embodiment, the washing machine 1 detects the water level inside the outer tub 24 by detecting the air pressure inside the air trap 50 using the water level detection means 70.

[0039] [1-2-2. Air trap in the dewatering process] Figure 9 shows the air trap 50 in the dewatering process, and shows the air trap 50 in the same cross-section as in Figure 5.

[0040] When the washing machine 1 performs a spin cycle, the outer tub 24 and the second hose 26 are empty of liquid. As described above, when the spin cycle is performed after the washing cycle or after the rinsing cycle, or after draining, water droplets T are present on the inner surfaces of the outer tub 24 and the second hose 26 during the spin cycle.

[0041] Furthermore, as described above, during the dewatering process, the washing tub 20 rotates at high speed driven by the motor 23. As a result, airflow flows into the washing tub 20 through the opening 21, and airflow is generated in the outer tub 24 in a direction away from the rotation axis of the washing tub 20 (hereinafter referred to as the centrifugal direction). This centrifugal airflow reaches the inside of the air trap 50 through the drain port 24A and the second hose 26, becoming an upward airflow.

[0042] In detail, as shown by dashed lines W1 and W2 in Figure 9, when the washing tub 20 rotates and no liquid is stored in the outer tub 24 and the second hose 26, the airflows W1 and W2 in the second hose 26 flow in the first direction D1. When the washing tub 20 rotates, not only airflows W1 and W2 but also airflow W3 is generated in the second hose 26, flowing in the opposite direction to the first direction D1 towards the third connection port 26C and the fourth connection port 26D. Furthermore, the airflows W1 and W2 flowing in the first direction D1 may curve upward along the second hose 26 near the second connection port 26B and reach the inside of the air trap 50 through the second connection port 26B and the opening 51. Here, in the region where the flow curves, the airflows W1 and W2 have a greater velocity on the outside of the curve than on the inside. Therefore, the airflow W1 flowing in the first direction D1 side of the air trap 50 tends to have a higher flow velocity than the airflow W2 flowing in the air trap 50 on the opposite side of the first direction D1. In other words, water droplets T attached to the second hose 26 are less likely to be carried away by airflow W2 and more likely to be carried away by airflow W1. Note that water droplets T can also be moved by vibrations of the outer tank 24, the second hose 26, and the air trap 50.

[0043] The airflow W1 flowing in the first direction D1 inside the air trap 50 causes the water droplets T in the second hose 26 to flow upward along the first side surface 53 of the air trap 50. In contrast, in this embodiment, the first side surface 53 is provided with a partition 55 that protrudes inward towards the inside of the air trap 50 below the connection portion 54. As a result, the water droplets T that are carried upward along the first side surface 53 by the airflow W1 are prevented from moving upward by the partition 55 and drip down onto the second hose 26 via the partition 55, making it difficult for them to reach the connection portion 54. More specifically, in the dewatering process, the water droplets T are carried by the airflow W1, rise along the lower part 53A and the middle part 53B, and are then trapped when their movement is prevented by the partition 55. After the dewatering process is completed and the airflow W1 is eliminated, the water droplets T may flow downward along the partition 55 and drip downward from the lower end of the partition 55 toward the second connection port 26B. In addition, the water droplets T may be carried by the airflow W1 during the dewatering process, rising along the lower 53A and middle 53B before flowing downward along the partition 55 and dripping downward from the lower end of the partition 55 toward the second connection port 26B. This makes it difficult for the water droplets T to enter the connection port 54 and the fourth hose 60.

[0044] In particular, in this embodiment, the partition portion 55 extends downward, and a second chamber S2 with its upper part closed is formed on the first direction D1 side of the partition portion 55. As a result, water droplets T that are carried upward by the airflow W1 can be trapped in the second chamber S2, making it difficult for the water droplets T to reach the connection portion 54 located in the first chamber S1. This makes it difficult for water droplets T to enter the connection portion 54 and the fourth hose 60.

[0045] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the air trap 50 is shaped such that the distance K1 between the second side surface 56 and the upper part 53C is smaller than the distance K2 between the second side surface 56 and the lower part 53A. That is, in the air trap 50, the width on the upper side where the connection part 54 is located is smaller than the width on the lower side, so that water droplets T are less likely to reach the connection part 54. As a result, water droplets T are less likely to enter the connection part 54 and the fourth hose 60. In this embodiment, the distance K1 is 12 to 15 mm, and the diameter of the fourth hose 60 is 4 mm. The distance K1 should be larger than the diameter of the fourth hose 60, and from the viewpoint of moldability, the distance K1 is preferably 10 mm or more, and from the viewpoint of preventing water droplets T from being blown into the first chamber S1, it is preferably about half or less of the distance K2. If the distance K1 is too small, the pressure change in the air inside the air trap 50 due to the rise in the water level of the outer tank 24 may not be accurately detected, similar to the case where water enters the connection part 54 provided in the air trap 50 and the fourth hose 60 connecting the connection part 54 to the water level detection means 70, and the water level may not be accurately detected. If the distance K1 is too large, water droplets T may be more easily blown into the first chamber S1 and more easily reach the connection part 54. In this embodiment, the distance K2 is 30 mm. The distance K2 should be such that foreign matter such as lint and soap residue does not easily clog the second hose 26 or the vicinity of the opening 51. For example, it is preferable that the distance K2 is about the same as the diameter K3 of the portion of the second hose 26 between the first connection port 26A and the third connection port 26C shown in Figure 5. Furthermore, it is preferable that the distance K2 is larger than the narrowest diameter K4 of the path connecting the first connection port 26A and the second connection port 26B of the second hose 26 (corresponding to the bottom of the roughly U-shaped space formed downwards from the drain port 24A side, in the first direction D1, and upwards toward the air top 50). If the distance K2 is too small, when foreign matter such as lint and soap residue reaches the vicinity of the opening 51 during the washing process, the foreign matter may not be discharged towards the third connection port 26C with the wash water during drainage, but may remain in the vicinity of the second hose 26 and the opening 51, causing a blockage. Alternatively, the volume of the air trap 50 may become too small, causing the pressure change in response to the water level change in the outer tub 24 to become too large, which may reduce the accuracy of water level detection. If the distance K2 is too large, it may occupy an excessive amount of space within the housing 10.In this embodiment, the distance K2 is approximately the same as the diameter K3 and greater than the diameter K4. In this embodiment, the distance K1 is 10 mm or more and less than or equal to approximately half the distance K2. Therefore, water droplets T are less likely to reach the connection part 54, and lint, soap residue, etc. are less likely to clog the opening 51. In this embodiment, the diameter K3 is 30 mm and the diameter K4 is 14 mm.

[0046] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in this embodiment, the washing machine 1 includes a rotatable washing tub 20, a motor 23 for rotating the washing tub 20, an outer tub 24 for housing the washing tub 20, an air trap 50 provided on the first direction D1 side as viewed from the drain port 24A of the outer tub 24 and communicating with the outer tub 24, and a water level detection means 70 communicating with the air trap 50 via a fourth hose 60. The air trap 50 is provided with a connection portion 54 for the fourth hose 60, and a partition portion 55 below the connection portion 54 that protrudes into the interior of the air trap 50 from a first side surface 53 on the first direction D1 side. As a result, even when air is blown into the air trap as the washing tub 20 rotates, the partition prevents water droplets T from entering the connection part 54 and the fourth hose 60. Therefore, a simple configuration can be used to suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy.

[0047] As in this embodiment, in the washing machine 1, the partition portion 55 may protrude downward, dividing the inside of the air trap 50 into a first chamber S1 on the opposite side of the first direction D1 and a second chamber S2 on the side of the first direction D1. As a result, even when air is blown into the air trap 50 as the washing tub 20 rotates, water droplets T can be trapped in the second chamber S2, thus preventing water droplets T from entering the connection part 54 and the fourth hose 60. Therefore, a simple configuration can suppress a decrease in the accuracy of water level detection.

[0048] As in this embodiment, in the washing machine 1, the partition portion 55 is formed in the middle portion 53B of the first side surface 53, and in the air trap 50, the distance K1 between the second side surface 56 located on the opposite side of the first direction D1 and the upper portion 53C located above the middle portion 53B of the first side surface 53 is smaller than the distance K2 between the second side surface 56 and the lower portion 53A located below the middle portion 53B of the first side surface 53, and the connecting portion 54 is provided in the upper portion 53C. As a result, the width of the upper side of the air trap 50 where the connection part 54 is located can be made smaller than the width of the lower side, thus preventing water droplets T from entering the connection part 54 and the second hose 26. Therefore, a simple configuration can be used to suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy.

[0049] In this embodiment, the washing machine 1 comprises a rotatable washing tub 20, a motor 23 for rotating the washing tub 20, an outer tub 24 housing the washing tub 20, an air trap 50 provided on the first direction D1 side as viewed from the drain port 24A of the outer tub 24 and communicating with the outer tub 24, and a water level detection means 70 communicating with the air trap 50 via a fourth hose 60. The air trap 50 has a branched first chamber S1 and a second chamber S2, the first chamber S1 is provided with a connection part 54 for the fourth hose 60, and the second chamber S2 is provided on the first direction D1 side of the first chamber S1. As a result, even when air is blown into the air trap 50 as the washing tub 20 rotates, the water droplets T are trapped in the second chamber S2, thus preventing the water droplets T from entering the connection part 54 and the fourth hose 60. Therefore, a simple configuration can be used to suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy.

[0050] (Other embodiments) As described above, Embodiment 1 has been explained as an example of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to this and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in Embodiment 1 above. Therefore, other embodiments are illustrated below.

[0051] In the above embodiment, the partition portion 55 was described as being formed integrally with the air trap 50 and protruding downward from the first side surface 53 on the first direction D1 side. However, the partition portion 55 only needs to be such that it is difficult for water droplets T to enter the connection portion 54 and the fourth hose 60. For this reason, the partition portion 55 is not limited to being formed integrally with the air trap 50, nor is it limited to protruding downward.

[0052] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an air trap 50 according to another embodiment 1, and shows the same cross-section as in Figure 6. In the air trap 50 according to another embodiment 1, a partition portion 155 is provided on the first side surface 53 instead of the partition portion 55. The partition portion 155 protrudes from the first side surface 53 toward the opposite side of the first direction D1. That is, the inside of the air trap 50 is divided vertically by the partition portion 155. The partition portion 155 is made of, for example, sheet metal or resin, and is fixed to the first side surface 53 by fastening screws, bonding, or fitting. The partition portion 155 is provided in the middle part 53B of the first side surface 53, similar to the partition portion 55 in embodiment 1, and is located below the connection portion 54. Therefore, the partition portion 155 can prevent water droplets T that flow upward along the first side surface 53 by the airflow W1 from the second hose 26, etc., from entering the connection portion 54 and the fourth hose 60.

[0053] In other words, according to another embodiment 1, the partition portion 155 may protrude toward the opposite side of the first direction D1, dividing the inside of the air trap 50 into a lower side and an upper side. As a result, even when air is blown into the air trap 50 as the washing tub 20 rotates, water droplets T can be easily retained below the partition 155, preventing water droplets T from entering the connection 54 and the fourth hose 60. Therefore, a simple configuration can be used to suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy.

[0054] Furthermore, the angle at which the partitions 55 and 155 protrude from the first side surface 53 is not limited to downward or in the first direction D1, but may be any diagonal direction between downward and the first direction D1.

[0055] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, it was explained that the first chamber S1 and the second chamber S2 are formed by being separated by a partition 55. The first chamber S1 and the second chamber S2 can be any structure that branches off inside the air trap 50.

[0056] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing an air trap 50 according to another embodiment 2, and shows the same cross-section as in Figure 6. Unlike embodiment 1, the air trap 50 according to other embodiment 2 does not have a partition portion 55. Also, on the first side surface 53 of the air trap 50 according to other embodiment 2, instead of the middle portion 53B of embodiment 1, a middle portion 153B is formed that extends from the upper end of the lower part 53A, inclined in a direction where the opposite side of the first direction D1 is located downwards, and connects to the lower end of the upper part 53C. As a result, a second chamber S12 is formed between the lower part 53A and the middle portion 53B, with the upper side closed. If we consider the space on the opposite side of the first direction D1 as viewed from the upper part 53C as the first chamber S11, then the air trap 50 according to other embodiment 2 has a first chamber S11 and a second chamber S12 that branch upwards. Furthermore, the second chamber S12 is located on the first direction D1 side of the first chamber S11, where the connecting portion 54 is provided. Therefore, in the second embodiment as well, water droplets T that are carried upward along the first side surface 53 by the airflow W1 can be trapped in the second chamber S12, and it is possible to prevent water droplets T from entering the connection part 54 and the fourth hose 60. The middle part 153B is not limited to a planar shape, and may be a curved surface having a cross-section such as an inverted U shape, or it may be composed of a plurality of bent planes.

[0057] In Embodiment 1, an example of the partition portion 55 was described as having a plate-like structure and being formed without gaps throughout the entire air trap 50 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 in the horizontal direction. The partition portion 55 only needs to be such that water droplets T do not easily enter the connection portion 54 and the fourth hose 60. For this reason, for example, the partition portion 55 may have a comb-like structure with gaps.

[0058] In Embodiment 1, a so-called drum-type washing machine was described as an example of a washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 only needs to perform a washing process, a rinsing process, and a spin-drying process. Therefore, the washing machine 1 is not limited to a drum-type washing machine. However, for example, the washing machine 1 may be a top-loading washing machine.

[0059] Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the claims or their equivalents.

[0060] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed. (Technical 1) A washing machine comprising: a rotatable washing tub; a motor for rotating the washing tub; an outer tub housing the washing tub; an air trap provided on the first direction side as viewed from the drain port of the outer tub and communicating with the outer tub; and a water level sensing means communicating with the air trap via a hose, wherein the air trap is provided with a connection portion for the hose and a partition portion below the connection portion that protrudes from the side on the first direction side toward the interior of the air trap. As a result, even when air is blown into the air trap as the washing tub rotates, the partition prevents water droplets from entering the connection and hose. Therefore, a simple configuration can be used to suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy.

[0061] (Technical 2) The washing machine according to Technical 1, wherein the partition portion protrudes downward, dividing the inside of the air trap into a first chamber on the opposite side of the first direction and a second chamber on the side of the first direction. This design allows water droplets to be trapped in the second chamber even when air is blown into the air trap as the washing tub rotates, thus preventing water droplets from entering the connection points and hoses. Therefore, a simple configuration can be used to minimize a decrease in water level detection accuracy.

[0062] (Technical 3) The washing machine according to Technical 1 or 2, wherein the partition is formed in the middle of the side surface, and in the air trap, the distance between the second side surface located on the opposite side to the first direction and the upper part of the side surface located above the middle is smaller than the distance between the second side surface and the lower part of the side surface located below the middle, and the connecting part is provided in the upper part. This allows the upper side of the air trap, where the connection is located, to be narrower than the lower side, thus preventing water droplets from entering the connection and hose. Therefore, a simple configuration can be used while minimizing a decrease in water level detection accuracy.

[0063] (Technical 4) The washing machine according to Technical 1 or 3, wherein the partition portion protrudes toward the opposite side of the first direction, and partitions the inside of the air trap into a lower side and an upper side. This design makes it easier to retain water droplets below the partition even when air is blown into the air trap as the washing tub rotates, preventing water droplets from entering the connection points and hoses. As a result, a simple configuration can be used to minimize a decrease in water level detection accuracy.

[0064] (Technical 5) A washing machine comprising: a rotatable washing tub; a motor for rotating the washing tub; an outer tub housing the washing tub; an air trap provided on the first direction side as viewed from the drain port of the outer tub and communicating with the outer tub; and a water level sensing means communicating with the air trap via a hose, wherein the air trap has a branched first chamber and a second chamber, the first chamber is provided with a connection part for the hose, and the second chamber is provided on the first direction side of the first chamber. As a result, even when air is blown into the air trap as the washing tub rotates, water droplets are trapped in the second chamber, preventing water droplets from entering the connection points and hoses. Therefore, a simple configuration can be used to suppress a decrease in water level detection accuracy. [Industrial applicability]

[0065] This disclosure is applicable to washing machines. Specifically, this disclosure is applicable to drum-type washing machines, top-loading washing machines, and the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0066] 1. Washing machine 10 cabinets 11. Removal opening 12 Lid member 13. Suspension spring 14 dampers 15 Water inlet 16 Water supply unit 17. Hose No. 1 20 Washing tub 21 Aperture 22 pivot axes 23 Motor 24 Outer tank 24A Drain port 25 Aperture 26. Second Hose 26A First connection port 26B Second connection port 26C Third connection port 26D Fourth connection port 27 Solenoid valve 27A Drainage Route 28 pumps 28A Third Hose 50 Air Trap 51 Aperture 53. First side (side facing the first direction) 53A Lower part 53B Chubu 53C upper part 54 Connection part 55 Partition 56 Second aspect 60. Hose No. 4 (Hose) 70 Water level detection means 153B Chubu 155 Partition S1, S11 Room 1 S2, S12 2nd room

Claims

1. A rotatable washing tub, A motor that rotates the washing tub, An outer tub housing the aforementioned washing tub, An air trap is provided on the first direction side as viewed from the drain port of the outer tank and communicates with the outer tank, It comprises a water level detection means that communicates with the air trap via a hose, The aforementioned air trap includes: The connection part with the hose, Below the aforementioned connection portion, a partition portion is provided that protrudes from the side surface on the first direction side toward the interior of the air trap. washing machine.

2. The aforementioned partition is, It protrudes downwards, The inside of the air trap is divided into a first chamber on the opposite side of the first direction and a second chamber on the side of the first direction. The washing machine according to claim 1.

3. The partition portion is formed in the middle of the side surface, In the air trap, the distance between the second side surface located on the opposite side of the first direction and the upper part of the side surface located above the middle portion is smaller than the distance between the second side surface and the lower part of the side surface located below the middle portion. The aforementioned connecting portion is provided on the upper part, The washing machine according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned partition is, It protrudes toward the opposite side of the first direction, and divides the inside of the air trap into a lower side and an upper side, The washing machine according to claim 1.

5. A rotatable washing tub, A motor that rotates the washing tub, An outer tub housing the aforementioned washing tub, An air trap is provided on the first direction side as viewed from the drain port of the outer tank and communicates with the outer tank, It comprises a water level detection means that communicates with the air trap via a hose, The aforementioned air trap is It has a branched first chamber and a second chamber, The first chamber is provided with a connection point for the hose. The second chamber is located on the first side of the first chamber, washing machine.

Images