Washing machine and outer lid

Abstract

This device prevents dust from entering the washing machine drum and reduces moisture inside the drum. [Solution] The washing machine (10) comprises a main body (12) having a through hole (12p) that communicates with the internal space, a washing tub (14) arranged in the internal space, and an outer cover (100) that can be opened and closed to cover the through hole (12p) of the main body (12). The outer cover (100) comprises a ventilation sheet (120) having a vent (12p) that can cover the through hole (12p), and a covering plate (110) that can cover the through hole (12p).

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Washing machines are provided with a lid that covers the opening of the washing tub to prevent the spillage of clothes, water, etc. In recent years, reducing the moisture remaining in the washing machine has been considered (see Patent Document 1). In the washing machine of Patent Document 1, after the driving device rotates the dehydration tub, the heating means is operated after a predetermined time to dry the inside of the outer tub, thereby preventing the generation of mold and various bacteria due to the moisture remaining in the gap between the dehydration tub or the washing and dehydration tub and the outer tub.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, even in the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, when the lid covering the water tank is left open when the washing machine is not in use, although the moisture in the water tank can be reduced because the moisture in the water tank is released to the outside, dust may enter the washing machine. On the contrary, when the lid of the washing machine is closed, although it is possible to suppress the entry of dust into the washing machine, if there is moisture remaining in the water tank for some reason, mold or various bacteria may be generated in the water tank due to the moisture in the water tank.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a washing machine capable of suppressing the entry of dust into the storage portion of the washing machine and reducing the moisture in the storage portion.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The washing machine according to this disclosure comprises a main body portion having a through hole communicating with an internal space, a storage portion disposed in the internal space, and an outer lid that can be opened and closed to cover the through hole of the main body portion, wherein the outer lid comprises a ventilation sheet having a ventilation opening and capable of covering the through hole, and a covering plate capable of covering the through hole.

[0007] The outer cover according to this disclosure is an outer cover for a washing machine that covers a through hole communicating with an internal space in which a storage compartment is located. The outer cover comprises a ventilation sheet provided with a ventilation opening that can cover the through hole, and a covering plate that can cover the through hole. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to suppress dust from entering the storage compartment of the washing machine and to reduce moisture inside the storage compartment. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine according to this embodiment. [Figure 6A] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the outer cover of this embodiment. [Figure 6B] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the outer cover of this embodiment. [Figure 7A] This is a schematic perspective view of the ventilation sheet in the outer cover of this embodiment. [Figure 7B] This is a schematic partially exploded perspective view of the ventilation sheet in the outer cover of this embodiment. [Figure 7C] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ventilation sheet in the outer cover of this embodiment. [Figure 8A]It is a schematic perspective view of the ventilation sheet in the outer lid of the present embodiment. [Figure 8B] It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ventilation sheet in the outer lid of the present embodiment.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, a washing machine and an outer lid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0011] In the following description, the X-axis direction of the coordinates shown in the drawings is the left-right direction (the direction in which the X-axis is positive when viewed from the origin of the coordinate axes is the right direction), the Y-axis direction is the front-back direction (the direction in which the Y-axis is positive when viewed from the origin is the back direction), and the Z-axis direction (the direction perpendicular to the XY plane) may be referred to as the up-down direction (the direction in which the Z-axis is positive when viewed from the origin is the up direction).

[0012] First, the washing machine 10 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine 10 of the present embodiment.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 10 includes a main body portion 12 and an outer lid 100. The main body portion 12 has a housing shape with an upper opening (see FIG. 2). Here, the main body portion 12 extends in the vertical direction.

[0014] The outer lid 100 covers the upper surface of the main body portion 12. The outer lid 100 is attached to the main body portion 12. The outer lid 100 opens and closes with respect to the main body portion 12. For example, the outer lid 100 rotates with respect to the main body portion 12. Specifically, the outer lid 100 can be opened and closed with respect to the main body portion 12 by rotating the front end side (-Y direction side) in the up-down direction with the rear end side (+Y direction side) as the rotation axis. Typically, the user opens and closes the outer lid 100 that covers the main body portion 12 from a position on the -Y direction side with respect to the main body portion 12.

[0015] The washing machine 10 washes laundry inside the main body 12. Note that the washing machine 10 may rinse, dehydrate, and / or dry the laundry in addition to washing inside the main body 12.

[0016] Next, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the washing machine 10 of the present embodiment will be described. FIGS. 1 and 2 are schematic perspective views of the washing machine 10 of the present embodiment. FIG. 1 shows the washing machine 10 with the outer lid 100 closed, and FIG. 2 shows the washing machine 10 with the outer lid 100 opened.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 2, in addition to the main body 12 and the outer lid 100, the washing machine 10 includes a water tub disposed inside the main body 12 and a washing tub 14. The water tub and the washing tub 14 correspond to an example of a housing portion. The housing portion can accommodate the supplied water and the supplied laundry. Both the water tub and the washing tub 14 are bottomed cylindrical shapes with open tops, and their respective axes extend in the vertical direction, and they are concentrically arranged such that the water tub is on the outside and the washing tub 14 is on the inside. The water tub is suspended inside the main body 12 by a suspension member. The washing tub 14 is provided rotatably in the water tub. Both the water tub and the washing tub 14 can store water. Laundry is put into the washing tub 14. In the washing tub 14, the laundry is washed with the supplied water. Then, the laundry is taken out from the washing tub 14.

[0018] The washing tub 14 is disposed in a relatively large internal space inside the main body 12. The main body 12 is provided with a through hole 12p that can communicate with the internal space of the main body 12. Here, the through hole 12p extends in the vertical direction. The through hole 12p serves as an entrance and exit for the laundry.

[0019] The outer lid 100 is openable and closable so as to cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12. As shown in FIG. 1, when the outer lid 100 is closed, the outer lid 100 covers the through hole 12p of the main body 12 and the washing tub 14. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 2, when the outer lid 100 is opened, the outer lid 100 does not cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12, and the washing tub 14 inside the main body 12 is exposed from the through hole 12p.

[0020] The main body 12 comprises a lower housing 12a and an upper housing 12b. The lower housing 12a is a hollow housing with an open top. The lower housing 12a forms the internal space of the main body 12, and a water tank is placed in this internal space. Furthermore, a washing tub 14 is placed inside the water tank. The upper housing 12b is located above the lower housing 12a. The upper housing 12b is provided with a through hole 12p that penetrates through the center of the upper housing 12b.

[0021] As described above, the outer cover 100 is openable and closable relative to the main body 12. The outer cover 100 is attached to the rear end (+Y direction side) of the main body 12. The outer cover 100 can rotate relative to the main body 12 around a pivot axis supported on the rear end (+Y direction side) of the main body 12.

[0022] The outer cover 100 comprises a covering plate 110 and a ventilation sheet 120. The ventilation sheet 120 is located closer to the main body 12 than the covering plate 110. The ventilation sheet 120 can be separated from the covering plate 110. The covering plate 110 can be opened and closed relative to the main body 12 when separated from the ventilation sheet 120. The ventilation sheet 120 can also be opened and closed relative to the main body 12 when separated from the covering plate 110. The covering plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120 can cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12 individually or as a single unit.

[0023] For example, the covering plate 110 holds the breathable sheet 120. The breathable sheet 120 is attached to the covering plate 110. The breathable sheet 120 may be integrally formed with the covering plate 110, or it may be removable from the covering plate 110.

[0024] The covering plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120 can each be rotated independently relative to the main body 12. For example, the covering plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120 can each be rotated relative to the main body 12 while separated. Alternatively, the covering plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120 can be rotated relative to the main body 12 while together as a single unit.

[0025] The covering plate 110 is a thin, non-deformable plate. When the covering plate 110 is closed, the length of the covering plate 110 along the X direction and along the Y direction are greater than the length (thickness) of the covering plate 110 along the Z direction. The covering plate 110 blocks the passage of air, moisture, and / or dust. Thus, the covering plate 110 does not have ventilation holes.

[0026] The ventilation sheet 120 is a thin sheet. When the ventilation sheet 120 is closed, the length of the ventilation sheet 120 along the X direction and the length along the Y direction are greater than the length (thickness) of the ventilation sheet 120 along the Z direction. Here, the size of the outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 (length along the X direction and length along the Y direction) is approximately equal to the size of the outer edge of the covering plate 110 (length along the X direction and length along the Y direction).

[0027] The breathable sheet 120 has vents 120p through which air passes. Here, the vents 120p penetrate the breathable sheet 120 linearly in the thickness direction. The vents 120p are arranged in a matrix consisting of multiple rows and multiple columns. The breathable sheet 120 has a mesh structure. For example, the size of the vents 120p is between 0.1 mm and 1 cm.

[0028] The ventilation opening 120p may penetrate the ventilation sheet 120 in a curved manner in the thickness direction. Alternatively, the ventilation sheet 120 may be formed of fine fibers such as nonwoven fabric. Furthermore, the ventilation sheet 120 may be in the form of a plate that does not deform significantly. Alternatively, the ventilation sheet 120 may be easily deformable.

[0029] When the covering plate 110 is closed, it covers the through hole 12p of the main body 12. The length of the covering plate 110 along the X direction and along the Y direction is greater than the length of the through hole 12p along the X direction and along the Y direction. Therefore, the covering plate 110 can cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12 by itself. By closing the covering plate 110, it is possible to prevent clothes and water from splashing out of the washing tub 14 and the main body 12 while the washing machine 10 is washing laundry. In addition, it is possible to prevent dust from entering the through hole 12p from the outside of the washing machine 10 while the washing machine 10 is in use and when it is not in use.

[0030] When the ventilation sheet 120 is closed, it covers the through-hole 12p of the main body 12. The length of the ventilation sheet 120 along the X direction and along the Y direction are greater than the length of the through-hole 12p along the X direction and along the Y direction. Therefore, the ventilation sheet 120 can cover the through-hole 12p of the main body 12 by itself. By closing the ventilation sheet 120, dust is prevented from entering the washing tub 14 and the water tank, and moisture inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank can be released to the outside through the ventilation sheet 120, thereby reducing the humidity inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank.

[0031] The covering plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120 may be integrated to cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12. For example, the covering plate 110 may engage with the ventilation sheet 120. When the covering plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120 are closed, the covering plate 110 covers the through hole 12p and the ventilation sheet 120. In this case, it is possible to prevent clothes and water from splashing out of the washing tub 14 and the main body 12 while the washing machine 10 is washing laundry. In addition, it is possible to prevent dust from entering the through hole 12p from outside the washing machine 10 while the washing machine 10 is in use and when it is not in use.

[0032] Here, the covering plate 110 overlaps with the ventilation sheet 120. The ventilation sheet 120 is located closer to the main body 12 than the covering plate 110. As shown in Figure 1, when the outer cover 100 is closed, the ventilation sheet 120 faces the main body 12, and the covering plate 110 faces the ventilation sheet 120.

[0033] The through-hole 12p extends vertically. The through-hole 12p connects the internal space where the washing tub 14 is located with the outside of the main body 12. The area of ​​the ventilation sheet 120 is larger than the area of ​​the through-hole 12p. As a result, the ventilation sheet 120 can easily cover the through-hole 12p of the main body 12.

[0034] Here, the through-hole 12p has an opening 12p1 that extends vertically from the internal space with a nearly constant area, and an opening 12p2 that is vertically above the opening 12p1 and has a larger area than the opening 12p1. Here, the cross-sectional area of ​​the through-hole 12p along the XY plane increases as it moves outward from the internal space of the main body 12. For this reason, the area of ​​the opening 12p2 is larger than the area of ​​the opening 12p1. In this case, since the area of ​​the ventilation sheet 120 is larger than the area of ​​the opening 12p2, the ventilation sheet 120 can easily cover the through-hole 12p of the main body 12.

[0035] The main body portion 12 is provided with an engagement hole 12e. The engagement hole 12e is provided in the upper housing 12b of the main body portion 12. The engagement hole 12e is located on the -Y direction side of the through hole 12p.

[0036] The covering plate 110 has a plate-shaped portion 111, a locking mechanism 112, and a pressing portion 113. The locking mechanism 112 and the pressing portion 113 are provided on the plate-shaped portion 111.

[0037] The plate-like portion 111 is plate-shaped. When the covering plate 110 is closed, the plate-like portion 111 spreads out in the XY plane. When the covering plate 110 is closed, the plate-like portion 111 faces the main body portion 12 and / or the ventilation sheet 120, and covers the through hole 12p of the main body portion 12.

[0038] The plate-like portion 111 has a main surface 111a and a main surface 111b. Here, when the covering plate 110 is closed, the main surface 111a faces vertically upward (+Z direction), and the main surface 111b faces vertically downward (-Z direction). When the covering plate 110 is closed, the main surface 111b of the plate-like portion 111 faces the main body portion 12 and / or the ventilation sheet 120.

[0039] The locking mechanism 112 is located at the end of the plate-shaped portion 111. The locking mechanism 112 is provided on the main surface 111b and the side of the plate-shaped portion 111. The locking mechanism 112 allows the plate-shaped portion 111 to be locked to the main body portion 12. When the covering plate 110 is closed, the locking mechanism 112 is located on the user side of the plate-shaped portion 111. The locking mechanism 112 controls the opening and closing of the plate-shaped portion 111 relative to the main body portion 12.

[0040] When the plate-shaped portion 111 is closed, the locking mechanism 112 engages with the engagement hole 12e of the main body portion 12. In this case, the covering plate 110 cannot be rotated relative to the main body portion 12 without operating the locking mechanism 112. On the other hand, by operating the locking mechanism 112, the engagement between the locking mechanism 112 and the engagement hole 12e of the main body portion 12 is released, and then the covering plate 110 can be rotated relative to the main body portion 12.

[0041] The locking mechanism 112 has a handle portion 112a and a latch 112b. The handle portion 112a is interlocked with the latch 112b relative to the plate-shaped portion 111. For example, when the handle portion 112a moves relative to the plate-shaped portion 111, the latch 112b moves in accordance with the movement of the handle portion 112a.

[0042] The handle portion 112a protrudes from the plate-shaped portion 111. The handle portion 112a is located on the side and bottom of the plate-shaped portion 111, and the handle portion 112a protrudes laterally and downward from the plate-shaped portion 111. When the covering plate 110 is closed, the handle portion 112a is located on the user side of the plate-shaped portion 111.

[0043] When the covering plate 110 is closed, the latch 112b is inserted into the engagement hole 12e of the main body 12 and engages with the engagement hole 12e of the main body 12. As a result, the locking mechanism 112 locks the plate-shaped portion 111 to the main body 12. Therefore, the covering plate 110 cannot be rotated relative to the main body 12 without operating the handle portion 112a.

[0044] On the other hand, by operating the handle portion 112a, the engagement between the latch 112b and the engagement hole 12e is released. When the user operates the handle portion 112a so that it moves closer to the plate-shaped portion 111, the latch 112b moves to release its engagement with the engagement hole 12e. In this way, by operating the handle portion 112a, the covering plate 110 can be rotated relative to the main body portion 12.

[0045] The pressing portion 113 is provided on the main surface 111b of the plate-shaped portion 111. The pressing portion 113 protrudes outward from the side of the plate-shaped portion 111. When pressed from the outside, the pressing portion 113 is movable inward. Furthermore, a biasing force is applied to the pressing portion 113 from the inside outward.

[0046] Therefore, when the covering plate 110 is closed, the pressing part 113 moves from the outside to the inside of the side of the plate-shaped part 111, and then presses the side of the through hole 12p of the main body part 12 with a relatively light force. By pressing the side of the through hole 12p of the main body part 12 with an appropriate force, the covering plate 110 can be prevented from opening easily.

[0047] Next, the washing machine 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine 10 of this embodiment. Figure 3 shows the washing machine 10 with the outer lid 100, the covering plate 110 open and the ventilation sheet 120 closed.

[0048] As shown in Figure 3, in the outer cover 100, the covering plate 110 can be left open without covering the through hole 12p of the main body 12, while the ventilation sheet 120 can be closed so as to cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12. In this case, the ventilation sheet 120 can prevent dust from entering the through hole 12p from outside the washing machine 10. In addition, since moisture inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank can be released to the outside through the ventilation sheet 120, the humidity inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank can be reduced.

[0049] In addition to the plate-shaped portion 111, the locking mechanism 112, and the pressing portion 113, the covering plate 110 further includes a protruding edge portion 114 and a suspension portion 115.

[0050] The protruding edge portion 114 is provided on the main surface 111b of the plate-like portion 111. The protruding edge portion 114 protrudes in the direction normal to the main surface 111b of the plate-like portion 111. The protruding edge portion 114 extends in an annular shape on the main surface 111b of the plate-like portion 111. When the covering plate 110 is closed, the protruding edge portion 114 fits into the opening 12p2 of the through hole 12p of the main body portion 12. Here, the outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 is larger than the outer edge of the protruding edge portion 114 of the covering plate 110.

[0051] The suspension portion 115 is provided on the main surface 111b of the plate-shaped portion 111. The suspension portion 115 protrudes from the main surface 111b of the plate-shaped portion 111 in the direction normal to the surface. The suspension portion 115 is located within the region surrounded by the protruding edge portion 114. For example, the suspension portion 115 is used to suspend a hanger on which a washed jacket is hung.

[0052] The covering plate 110 rotates around the pivot axis 12x. The pivot axis 12x may be fixed to the main body 12, and the covering plate 110 may rotate around the pivot axis 12x. The ventilation sheet 120 may also be fixed to the pivot axis 12x and rotate around the pivot axis 12x. The outer cover 100 may be rotatable around the pivot axis 12x as a single unit with the covering plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120.

[0053] The pivot shaft 12x may be provided within a hinge attached to the main body 12 and the covering plate 110 and / or the ventilation sheet 120. Alternatively, the pivot shaft 12x may be provided in a part of the covering plate 110 and / or the ventilation sheet 120, with both ends of the pivot shaft 12x fixed to the main body 12.

[0054] In the washing machine 10 of this embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, closing the outer cover 100 prevents water and laundry from splashing out of the main body 12 when the washing machine 10 is washing laundry. In this case, since the outer cover 100 covers the through hole 12p of the main body 12, it is possible to prevent finer dust from entering the washing tub 14 and the water tank.

[0055] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, by opening the outer cover 100, laundry can be easily put into the washing tub 14 and easily removed from the washing tub 14.

[0056] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, by opening the covering plate 110 while closing the ventilation sheet 120, the ventilation sheet 120 covers the through-hole 12p of the main body 12, thereby preventing dust from entering the washing tub 14 and the water tank. In addition, since the ventilation sheet 120 has a ventilation opening 120p that communicates with the inside of the main body 12, moisture inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank inside the main body 12 can be released to the outside.

[0057] In the washing machine 10 shown in Figures 1 to 3, the outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 is larger than the outer edge of the opening 12p2 of the through hole 12p in the main body 12, and the size of the outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 is approximately equal to the size of the outer edge of the cover plate 110. Therefore, when the cover plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120 are closed relative to the main body 12 with the ventilation sheet 120 attached to the cover plate 110, if the rotation speed of the washing tub 14 is high, there is a risk that water from the washing tub 14 may splash out of the washing machine 10 through the ventilation holes 120p of the ventilation sheet 120. For this reason, when the washing machine 10 of this embodiment is washing laundry, it is preferable to remove the ventilation sheet 120 from the cover plate 110 so that the cover plate 110 covers the through hole 12p of the main body 12 by itself. However, when the washing machine 10 is not washing laundry, the ventilation sheet 120 may be retained on the cover plate 110.

[0058] The washing machine 10 of this embodiment comprises a main body 12, a washing tub 14, and an outer cover 100. The main body 12 is provided with a through hole 12p that communicates with the internal space. The washing tub 14 is located in the internal space of the main body 12. The outer cover 100 can be opened and closed to cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12. The outer cover 100 has a covering plate 110 and a ventilation sheet 120. The ventilation sheet 120 is provided with a ventilation opening 120p. The ventilation sheet 120 can cover the through hole 12p. The covering plate 110 can cover the through hole 12p. This prevents dust from entering the washing tub 14 and the water tank of the washing machine 10 and reduces moisture inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank.

[0059] In the washing machine 10 of this embodiment, the cover plate 110 is rotatable relative to the main body 12 and the ventilation sheet 120. The ventilation sheet 120 is also rotatable relative to the main body 12. This allows the cover plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120 to be easily opened and closed.

[0060] The ventilation sheet 120 and the covering plate 110 rotate around the pivot axis 12x. This allows the covering plate 110 and the ventilation sheet 120 to be opened and closed with a simple configuration.

[0061] The area of ​​the ventilation sheet 120 is larger than the area of ​​the through-hole 12p in the main body 12. As a result, the ventilation sheet 120 can more easily prevent dust from entering the washing tub 14 and the water tub of the washing machine 10.

[0062] The breathable sheet 120 has a mesh structure. This allows the breathable sheet 120 to suppress dust from entering the washing tub 14 and water tank of the washing machine 10 with a simple configuration, and also reduces moisture inside the washing tub 14 and water tank.

[0063] The covering plate 110 engages with the breathable sheet 120. This allows the breathable sheet 120 to be easily retained on and released from the covering plate 110.

[0064] In the washing machine 10 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 3, the outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 was larger than the outer edge of the opening 12p2 of the through hole 12p in the main body 12, and the size of the outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 was approximately equal to the size of the outer edge of the cover plate 110. However, this embodiment is not limited to this. The outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 may be smaller than the outer edge of the opening 12p2 of the through hole 12p in the main body 12, and when the outer cover 100 is closed, the ventilation sheet 120 may be housed within the opening 12p2 of the through hole 12p in the main body 12. Alternatively, the size of the outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 may be smaller than the size of the outer edge of the cover plate 110, and the ventilation sheet 120 may be housed in the cover plate 110.

[0065] Next, the washing machine 10 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. Figures 4 and 5 are schematic perspective views of the washing machine 10 of this embodiment. Figure 4 shows the washing machine 10 with the outer lid 100 open, and Figure 5 shows the washing machine 10 with the covering plate 110 open and the ventilation sheet 120 closed on the outer lid 100. The washing machine 10 shown in Figures 4 and 5 has the same configuration as the washing machine 10 described above with reference to Figures 2 and 3, except that the covering plate 110 can accommodate the ventilation sheet 120, and redundant explanations will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0066] As shown in Figure 4, the ventilation sheet 120 is housed in the covering plate 110. The outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 is smaller than the outer edge of the covering plate 110, and the ventilation sheet 120 is housed within the protruding edge portion 114 of the covering plate 110. Furthermore, the outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 is smaller than the outer edge of the opening 12p2 of the through hole 12p of the main body portion 12.

[0067] As shown in Figure 5, the outer cover 100 can be opened to close the ventilation sheet 120 by opening the covering plate 110. Here, the ventilation sheet 120 is removed from the covering plate 110 and used to cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12. Therefore, the outer cover 100 can be opened so that the covering plate 110 does not cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12, while the ventilation sheet 120 covers the through hole 12p of the main body 12 when closed. Also, since the outer edge of the ventilation sheet 120 is smaller than the outer edge of the opening 12p2 of the through hole 12p of the main body 12, the ventilation sheet 120 is positioned inside the through hole 12p.

[0068] Therefore, the ventilation sheet 120 prevents dust from entering the through-hole 12p from the outside of the washing machine 10. In addition, since moisture inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank can be released to the outside through the ventilation sheet 120, the humidity inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank can be reduced.

[0069] In the washing machine 10 of this embodiment, by opening the covering plate 110 and having the ventilation sheet 120 cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12, dust can be prevented from entering the washing tub 14 and the water tank. In addition, since the ventilation sheet 120 has a ventilation opening 120p that communicates with the inside of the main body 12, moisture inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank of the main body 12 can be reduced.

[0070] Furthermore, in the washing machine 10 of this embodiment, the covering plate 110 can accommodate the ventilation sheet 120. Therefore, even when washing laundry with the ventilation sheet 120 attached to the covering plate 110, the washing machine 10 can prevent water from the washing tub 14 from splashing out of the washing machine 10 through the ventilation holes 120p of the ventilation sheet 120.

[0071] In the outer cover 100 described above with reference to Figure 4, the ventilation sheet 120 is attached to the protruding edge portion 114 of the covering plate 110, but this embodiment is not limited to this. Preferably, the ventilation sheet 120 can be easily attached to and detached from the covering plate 110.

[0072] Next, the outer cover 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6B. Figures 6A and 6B are schematic cross-sectional views of the outer cover 100 of this embodiment. Figure 6A shows the outer cover 100 before operating the handle portion 112a, and Figure 6B shows the outer cover 100 when the handle portion 112a is pulled up.

[0073] As shown in Figure 6A, the covering plate 110 is detachably engaged with the breathable sheet 120. As described above, the covering plate 110 has a plate-like portion 111 and a locking mechanism 112. In detail, the locking mechanism 112 holds the breathable sheet 120, and by operating the locking mechanism 112, the breathable sheet 120 is detached from the covering plate 110.

[0074] As described above with reference to Figures 1 and 2, the locking mechanism 112 engages with the engagement hole 12e of the main body 12 to lock the plate-shaped portion 111 to the main body 12. In the outer cover 100 of this embodiment, the locking mechanism 112 holds the ventilation sheet 120. Here, the covering plate 110 engages with the ventilation sheet 120 in a detachable manner.

[0075] The plate-shaped portion 111 has a mounting surface 111c in addition to the main surfaces 111a and 111b. The mounting surface 111c is located on the side that connects to the main surfaces 111a and 111b. The mounting surface 111c is located on the -Y direction side where the user is positioned. A locking mechanism 112 is attached to the mounting surface 111c.

[0076] The locking mechanism 112 includes a handle portion 112a, a latch 112b, and a pivot shaft 112c. The handle portion 112a and the latch 112b are attached to the main surface 111b and the mounting surface 111c of the plate-shaped portion 111. The pivot shaft 112c is fixed to the plate-shaped portion 111. The latch 112b passes through the opening of the handle portion 112a. The handle portion 112a and the latch 112b are supported so as to be rotatable around the pivot shaft 112c.

[0077] The handle portion 112a is linked to the latch 112b. For example, when the handle portion 112a moves, the latch 112b moves in accordance with the movement of the handle portion 112a.

[0078] The handle portion 112a is located at the end of the plate-shaped portion 111. When the covering plate 110 is closed, the handle portion 112a is located on the user side of the plate-shaped portion 111. When the covering plate 110 is closed, the latch 112b engages with the engagement hole 12e (Figure 2) of the main body portion 12. Therefore, the covering plate 110 cannot be rotated relative to the main body portion 12 without operating the handle portion 112a.

[0079] On the other hand, when the user grasps the handle portion 112a, the handle portion 112a moves closer to the plate-like portion 111. By operating the handle portion 112a, the engagement between the latch 112b and the engagement hole 12e is released. Therefore, by operating the handle portion 112a, the covering plate 110 can be rotated relative to the main body portion 12.

[0080] A space for housing the ventilation sheet 120 is formed in the covering plate 110 by the -Z-direction side surface of the plate-shaped portion 111 and the latch 112b. The ventilation sheet 120 is housed in the covering plate 110 when it engages with the latch 112b of the locking mechanism 112.

[0081] As shown in Figure 6B, when the user pulls the handle portion 112a upward in direction D1, the opening of the handle portion 112a comes into contact with the latch 112b, causing the latch 112b to move in direction D2. As the latch 112b moves in direction D2, it separates from the ventilation sheet 120, releasing its engagement with the ventilation sheet 120. As a result, the locking mechanism 112 no longer holds the ventilation sheet 120, and the ventilation sheet 120 detaches in direction D3.

[0082] The handle portion 112a and the latch 112b are supported so as to be rotatable around the pivot shaft 112c. A biasing force acts on the latch 112b by a biasing member. Typically, the biasing member is a spring. For example, the biasing member is a torsion spring. The biasing member acts a biasing force on the latch 112b in the direction opposite to direction D2, and consequently, a biasing force acts on the handle portion 112a in the direction opposite to direction D1. Therefore, when the user stops operating the handle portion 112a, the handle portion 112a and the latch 112b return to their positions before the user's operation.

[0083] According to this embodiment, the locking mechanism 112 engages with the engagement hole 12e of the main body 12 to lock the plate-shaped portion 111 to the main body 12 and also holds the breathable sheet 120. Therefore, by operating the handle portion 112a, the user can not only release the locking mechanism 112 from the engagement hole 12e of the main body 12, but also release the breathable sheet 120.

[0084] According to this embodiment, the covering plate 110 comprises a plate-shaped portion 111 and a locking mechanism 112 that can lock the plate-shaped portion 111 to the main body portion 12. The locking mechanism 112 has a handle portion 112a protruding from the plate-shaped portion 111 and a latch 112b that is interlocked with the handle portion 112a and engages with an engagement hole 12e of the main body portion 12. This allows the covering plate 110 to be easily opened and closed.

[0085] According to this embodiment, the covering plate 110 houses the breathable sheet 120. This allows the covering plate 110 to hold the breathable sheet 120 in layers without increasing its size.

[0086] According to this embodiment, the latch 112b holds the ventilation sheet 120 housed in the covering plate 110. This allows for simultaneous switching between opening and closing the covering plate 110 and holding the ventilation sheet 120.

[0087] In the washing machine 10 and outer lid 100 shown in Figures 2 to 6B, the ventilation sheet 120 had a mesh structure, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The ventilation sheet 120 may also have a blind structure. For example, the ventilation sheet 120 may allow ventilation to the outside through gaps in the slats.

[0088] Next, the outer cover 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 8B. Figure 7A is a schematic perspective view of the ventilation sheet 120 in the outer cover 100 of this embodiment. Figure 7B is a schematic exploded perspective view of the ventilation sheet 120 in the outer cover 100 of this embodiment. Figure 7B shows one slat 124 and handle portion 126 of the ventilation sheet 120 separated from the frame 122. Figure 7C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ventilation sheet 120 in the outer cover 100 of this embodiment. Figure 7C shows the frame 122 and slat 124 of the ventilation sheet 120 cut in the XZ plane.

[0089] As shown in Figures 7A to 7C, the ventilation sheet 120 has a blind structure. The ventilation sheet 120 has a frame 122, slats 124, and handles 126. The frame 122 is hollow and thin. The inner edge 122a and outer edge 122b of the frame 122 are substantially rectangular. The frame 122 is provided with through holes through which the slats 124 pass.

[0090] Multiple slats 124 are attached to the frame 122. The slats 124 are located within the inner edge 122a of the frame 122. The slats 124 extend longitudinally along the Y direction. The slats 124 are rotatably fixed to the frame 122. The slats 124 are flexible. The slats 124 are attached to the frame 122 by being partially bent.

[0091] Multiple slats 124 can rotate relative to the frame 122. The slats 124 function as the blades of a blind. The multiple slats 124 may rotate independently relative to the frame 122, or they may rotate collectively relative to the frame 122.

[0092] The handle portion 126 is attached to the -Y end of the slat 124. The handle portion 126 extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the slat 124 (the X direction). The handle portion 126 is located outside the outer edge 122b of the frame 122. By rotating the handle portion 126, the inclination angle of the slat 124 relative to the frame 122 can be changed.

[0093] In Figures 7A to 7C, in the ventilation sheet 120 of the outer cover 100, multiple slats 124 are arranged in one direction, with the ends of adjacent slats 124 overlapping. As a result, the opening in the inner edge 122a of the frame 122 is covered by the multiple slats 124, and the slats 124 close the opening in the inner edge 122a of the frame 122. Therefore, the ventilation sheet 120 can prevent dust from entering the washing tub 14 (Figure 2) and the water tub from the outside.

[0094] Next, the ventilation sheet 120 in the outer cover 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 8B. Figure 8A is a schematic perspective view of the ventilation sheet 120 in the outer cover 100 of this embodiment, and Figure 8B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ventilation sheet 120 in the outer cover 100 of this embodiment. Figures 8A and 8B show the ventilation opening 120p of the ventilation sheet 120 in the outer cover 100 of this embodiment in the open state.

[0095] As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the multiple slats 124 are approximately perpendicular to the frame 122, and the multiple slats 124 face each other. As a result, the slats 124 hardly cover the opening in the inner edge 122a of the frame 122. Therefore, a ventilation opening 120p is formed between two adjacent slats 124. For example, by operating the handle portion 126 to rotate the multiple slats 124 relative to the frame 122, the multiple slats 124 can be made approximately perpendicular to the frame 122.

[0096] Thus, since most of the opening within the inner edge 122a of the frame 122 is not covered by the multiple slats 124, a ventilation opening 120p can be formed within the inner edge 122a of the frame 122. Therefore, the ventilation sheet 120 prevents dust from entering the inside of the washing tub 14 (Figure 2) and the water tank from the outside, while allowing moisture inside the washing tub 14 and the water tank to be released to the outside.

[0097] In this embodiment, the ventilation sheet 120 has a blind structure. This allows the ventilation openings 120p of the ventilation sheet 120 to be adjusted while the ventilation sheet 120 remains positioned above the through-holes 12p of the main body 12. For example, in certain situations, the ventilation openings 120p of the ventilation sheet 120 can be enlarged to promote the evaporation of moisture in the washing tub 14 and the water tank. On the other hand, in other situations, the ventilation openings 120p of the ventilation sheet 120 can be reduced to suppress the entry of dust into the washing tub 14 and the water tank.

[0098] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from its essence. The drawings schematically show each component for ease of understanding, and the thickness, length, number, etc. of each component shown may differ from the actual dimensions due to the convenience of drawing creation. Furthermore, the materials, shapes, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the embodiments described above are examples and are not particularly limiting, and various modifications are possible without substantially departing from the effects of this disclosure.

[0099] For example, the washing machine 10 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 8B is equipped with an outer lid 100, but the washing machine 10 may further be equipped with an inner lid that directly covers the top of the washing tub 14 in addition to the outer lid 100.

[0100] Furthermore, in the washing machine 10 and outer lid 100 shown in Figures 2 to 8B, the ventilation sheet 120 was in the form of a non-deformable plate, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The ventilation sheet 120 may also be in the form of a roll. For example, the ventilation sheet 120 may be pulled out from the main body 12 as needed to cover the through hole 12p of the main body 12, and stored in the main body 12 after use.

[0101] For example, in the washing machine 10 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 8B, at least washing was performed in the washing tub 14 covered by the outer lid 100. However, in this embodiment, the operations performed in the washing tub 14 covered by the outer lid 100 are not limited to washing. In addition to washing, rinsing, spinning, and drying may be performed in the washing tub 14 covered by the outer lid 100. Alternatively, rinsing and / or spinning alone may be performed in the washing tub 14 covered by the outer lid 100.

[0102] Furthermore, in the above description with reference to Figures 1 to 8B, the washing machine 10 is a vertical washing machine in which the through-hole 12p of the upper casing 12b extends vertically, and the user can load and unload laundry into the washing tub 14 in a vertical direction. However, this embodiment is not limited to this. The through-hole 12p of the upper casing 12b may widen diagonally with respect to the vertical direction, and the user may load and unload laundry into the washing tub 14 diagonally with respect to the vertical direction. For example, the washing machine 10 may be a so-called drum type.

[0103] Furthermore, in the above description with reference to Figures 1 and 2, the washing machine 10 is provided with a water tank and a washing tub 14 separately, but this embodiment is not limited to this. In a washing machine, the water tank may be the same as the washing tub. [Industrial applicability]

[0104] According to this disclosure, it is applicable to washing machines and outer lids. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0105] 10 Washing machines 12 Main body 14 Aquariums 100 Outer lid 110 Covering plate 111 Plate-like part 112 Locking mechanism 112a Handle section 112b Latch 120 Breathable Sheet

Claims

1. The main body has a through-hole that communicates with the internal space, A housing section arranged in the aforementioned internal space, An outer cover that can be opened and closed so as to cover the through hole of the main body, Equipped with, The aforementioned outer cover is A ventilation sheet is provided with ventilation openings and capable of covering the aforementioned through holes, A covering plate capable of covering the aforementioned through hole and A washing machine equipped with [a specific feature].

2. The ventilation sheet is rotatable relative to the main body, The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the covering plate is rotatable relative to the main body and the ventilation sheet.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the ventilation sheet and the covering plate rotate around a pivot axis.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the area of ​​the ventilation sheet is larger than the area of ​​the through-hole.

5. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation sheet has a mesh structure or a blind structure.

6. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the covering plate engages with the breathable sheet.

7. The aforementioned covering plate is A plate-shaped plate-like part, The plate-shaped portion is lockable to the main body and Equipped with, The locking mechanism is A handle portion protruding from the plate-like portion, A latch that is linked to the handle and engages with the engagement hole of the main body A washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, having the following features.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein the covering plate houses the breathable sheet.

9. The washing machine according to claim 8, wherein the latch holds the breathable sheet housed in the covering plate.

10. In a washing machine, an outer cover that covers a through hole communicating with the internal space in which the storage compartment is located, The aforementioned outer cover is A ventilation sheet is provided with ventilation openings and capable of covering the aforementioned through holes, A covering plate capable of covering the aforementioned through hole and An outer cover equipped with a cover.

Images