washing machine

Abstract

This disclosure provides a washing machine that can supply foamed detergent to a water tank with a simple configuration. [Solution] The washing machine in this disclosure comprises a water supply valve, a water tank from which water is supplied from the water supply valve, a water channel communicating the water supply valve and the water tank, and a foam generator that generates foam in the water supplied to the water tank, wherein the foam generator is located upstream of the mixing point in the water channel where the water supplied to the water tank and the detergent supplied to the water tank mix.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a washing machine that supplies foaming detergent to a water tank has been known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine that generates foaming detergent by rotating an inner tub into which laundry and detergent are loaded, and supplies the foaming detergent into the inner tub from above the inner tub. Also, for example, Patent Document 2 discloses a drum-type washing machine that supplies detergent foam generated by a foam generation pump into an outer tub before a washing process.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides a washing machine that can supply foaming detergent to a water tank with a simple configuration.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The washing machine in the present disclosure includes a water supply valve, a water tank to which water is supplied from the water supply valve, a water passage through which the water supply valve and the water tank communicate, and a foam generator that generates foam in the water supplied to the water tank. The foam generator is arranged upstream of a mixing portion in the water passage where the water supplied to the water tank and the detergent supplied to the water tank are mixed.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] The washing machine in this disclosure can supply foamed detergent to a water tank with a simple configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Perspective view of the washing machine in Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] A diagram showing a vertical cross-section of the washing machine in Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Schematic diagram of the automatic agent supply device in Embodiment 1 [Figure 4A] A diagram showing the configuration of the foam generator in Embodiment 1 and the location of the foam generator. [Figure 4B] A diagram showing the configuration of the foam generator in Embodiment 1 and the location of the foam generator. [Figure 5] This figure shows the configuration of the washing machine control system in Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Flowchart showing the operation of the washing machine in Embodiment 1 [Figure 7] Schematic diagram of the automatic agent supply device in Embodiment 2 [Figure 8A] Diagram showing the state of the three-way valve in Embodiment 2. [Figure 8B] A diagram showing the state of the three-way valve in Embodiment 2. [Figure 9] This figure shows the configuration of the washing machine control system in Embodiment 2. [Figure 10] Figure showing an example of a ratio table in Embodiment 2. [Figure 11] Schematic diagram of the automatic agent supply device in Embodiment 3 [Figure 12] Schematic diagram of the automatic agent supply device in Embodiment 4 [Figure 13] This figure shows the configuration of the washing machine control system in Embodiment 4. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) When the inventors arrived at the present disclosure, there were washing machines that supplied foaming detergent to the water tank. However, in the prior art, as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the washing tub was rotated to foam the detergent, or a pump was driven to foam the detergent, or the washing machine had a dedicated supply path for supplying the foamed detergent, and the inventors discovered the problem that the configuration for supplying the foamed detergent to the water tank was complicated. To solve this problem, the inventors arrived at the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides a washing machine that can supply foamed detergent to a water tank with a simple configuration.

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, there may be cases where a more detailed description than necessary is omitted. For example, there may be cases where a detailed description of well-known matters or a redundant description of substantially the same configuration is omitted. It should be noted 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.

[0010] (Embodiment 1) [1-1. Configuration] [1-1-1. Configuration of the washing machine] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the washing machine 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a longitudinal section of the washing machine 1. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are illustrated. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are orthogonal to each other. The Z-axis indicates the vertical direction and corresponds to the height direction of the washing machine 1 in the installed state. The X-axis and Y-axis are parallel to the horizontal direction. The X-axis indicates the left-right direction. The left-right direction corresponds to the left-right direction of the washing machine 1 in the installed state. The Y-axis indicates the front-back direction. The positive direction of the X-axis indicates the right direction. The positive direction of the Y-axis indicates the front direction. The positive direction of the Z-axis indicates the upward direction.

[0011] The washing machine 1 is a device that washes and dries clothes and the like accommodated in the washing tub 13.

[0012] The washing machine 1 comprises a housing 10. The housing 10 is a component that forms the outer casing of the washing machine 1 and includes a top surface portion 11 that constitutes the top surface of the washing machine 1. Inside the housing 10 are a water tank 12 with an open front and capable of storing water, and a washing tub 13 that is rotatably mounted inside the water tank 12. The peripheral wall of the washing tub 13 is provided with numerous ventilation holes that connect the inside and outside of the washing tub 13. A drive motor (not shown) is provided in the lower inner part of the housing 10. This drive motor is connected to the washing tub 13 via a belt and pulley (not shown). When this drive motor is rotated, the washing tub 13 rotates around its central axis CA as the axis of rotation.

[0013] A lid 14 is provided on the front of the casing 10 to open and close the opening of the water tank 12. The lid 14 covers the opening of the water tank 12 in a manner that allows it to be opened and closed. By opening the lid 14, the user of the washing machine 1 can put clothes into the washing tub 13 or take clothes out of the washing tub 13.

[0014] The housing 10 is equipped with an automatic agent supply device 15 above the water tank 12. The automatic agent supply device 15 will be described later.

[0015] The housing 10 is equipped with a retractable lid 16 on its top surface 11. When the lid 16 is open, the detergent tank 17 and the fabric softener tank 18 are detachably installed in the opening 19. The detergent tank 17 is a tank for storing liquid detergent, and the fabric softener tank 18 is a tank for storing liquid fabric softener.

[0016] The enclosure 10 has an operation panel 20 on its top. The operation panel 20 is equipped with operation buttons and a display, and accepts instructions from the user and displays information.

[0017] Next, the configuration of the automatic agent supply device 15 will be described. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the automated drug supply device 15.

[0018] The automatic agent supply device 15 comprises a tank housing case 151, a water dispenser 152, a three-way valve unit 153, a pump unit 154, a foam generator 155, and a T-port type three-way valve 156. The three-way valve 156 is an example of a "flow path switching section".

[0019] The tank housing case 151 is a container having a storage section with an open top. A detergent tank 17 and a fabric softener tank 18 are detachably attached to the tank housing case 151. Additionally, a detergent case 21 is detachably attached to the tank housing case 151. The detergent case 21 has a detergent storage section 211 for storing enough detergent for one wash added by the user, and a fabric softener storage section 212 for storing enough fabric softener for one wash added by the user. The detergent stored in the detergent storage section 211 may be liquid detergent or powder detergent. Similarly, the fabric softener stored in the fabric softener storage section 212 may be liquid fabric softener or powder fabric softener.

[0020] The tank housing case 151 has a first water inlet 151A, a second water inlet 151B, and a drain port 151C. The first water inlet 151A supplies water to the detergent contained in the detergent storage section 211 from above the detergent storage section 211. The second water inlet 151B supplies water to the fabric softener contained in the fabric softener storage section 212 from above the fabric softener storage section 212. The drain port 151C discharges the water supplied to the tank housing case 151 to the outside of the tank housing case 151. A connecting hose 22 that connects the tank housing case 151 and the water tank 12 is connected to the drain port 151C.

[0021] The water supply unit 152 includes a first water supply valve 152A, a second water supply valve 152B, and a third water supply valve 152C. In this embodiment, the first water supply valve 152A is an example of a "water supply valve".

[0022] The first water supply valve 152A is a valve that controls the water supply to the first water supply channel W1. Here, the first water supply channel W1 will be described. The first water supply channel W1 is a water channel through which the first water supply valve 152A and the water tank 12 are connected via a three-way valve unit 153, a pump unit 154, and a connecting hose 22. In the first water supply channel W1, water flows in the direction of arrow Y1, that is, from the first water supply valve 152A toward the water tank 12. The first water supply channel W1 includes a water channel W11 through which the first water supply valve 152A and the three-way valve unit 153 are connected, a water channel W12 through which the three-way valve unit 153 and the pump unit 154 are connected, and a water channel W13 through which the pump unit 154 and a branch water channel 22A branched off from the connecting hose 22 are connected. A bypass water channel W14, which is connected to the tank housing case 151, is connected to the upstream side of the three-way valve unit 153 in water channel W11. In this embodiment, the first water supply channel W1 is an example of a "water channel".

[0023] The second water supply valve 152B is a valve that controls the supply of water to the second water supply channel W2. Now, let's describe the second water supply channel W2. The second water supply channel W2 is a water channel that connects the second water supply valve 152B and the water tank 12 via the detergent storage section 211 of the tank housing case 151 and the connecting hose 22. In the second water supply channel W2, water flows in the direction of arrow Y2, that is, from the second water supply valve 152B toward the water tank 12.

[0024] The third water supply valve 152C is a valve that controls the water supply to the third water supply channel W3. Now, let's describe the third water supply channel W3. The third water supply channel W3 is a water channel that connects the third water supply valve 152C and the water tank 12 via the fabric softener storage section 212 of the tank housing case 151 and the connecting hose 22. In the third water supply channel W3, water flows in the direction of arrow Y3, that is, from the third water supply valve 152C towards the water tank 12.

[0025] The three-way valve unit 153 is a unit that selectively supplies detergent from the detergent tank 17 and fabric softener from the fabric softener tank 18 to the pump unit 154. The three-way valve unit 153 is provided with a water channel W15 that connects water channels W11 and W12. Water channel W15 is connected to a detergent supply channel R1 that communicates with the detergent tank 17 and a fabric softener supply channel R2 that communicates with the fabric softener tank 18.

[0026] The three-way valve unit 153 controls the flow of liquid in the waterway W15. The three-way valve unit 153 comprises a detergent-side three-way valve 153A, a fabric softener-side three-way valve 153B, a detergent-side coil 153C that drives the detergent-side three-way valve 153A, and a fabric softener-side coil 153D that drives the fabric softener-side three-way valve 153B.

[0027] The detergent-side three-way valve 153A switches the liquid flowing downstream of the detergent-side three-way valve 153A to either water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A or detergent in the detergent tank 17. When the detergent-side coil 153C is de-energized, the detergent-side three-way valve 153A switches the liquid flowing downstream of the detergent-side three-way valve 153A to water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A. When the detergent-side coil 153C is energized, the detergent-side three-way valve 153A switches the liquid flowing downstream of the detergent-side three-way valve 153A to the detergent in the detergent tank 17.

[0028] The three-way valve 153B on the fabric softener side switches the liquid flowing downstream of the three-way valve 153B to either the liquid flowing from the detergent side three-way valve 153A or the fabric softener in the fabric softener tank 18. When the fabric softener coil 153D is de-energized, the fabric softener three-way valve 153B switches the liquid flowing downstream of the fabric softener three-way valve 153B to the liquid flowing from the detergent three-way valve 153A. When the fabric softener coil 153D is energized, the fabric softener three-way valve 153B switches the liquid flowing downstream of the fabric softener three-way valve 153B to the fabric softener in the fabric softener tank 18.

[0029] The pump unit 154 is a unit that sucks up detergent from the detergent tank 17 or fabric softener from the fabric softener tank 18 and supplies the detergent from the detergent tank 17 or fabric softener from the fabric softener tank 18 to the first water supply channel W1. The pump unit 154 comprises a piston 154A and a drive motor 154B that drives the piston 154A. The pump unit 154 drives the piston 154A with the drive motor 154B to suck up detergent from the detergent tank 17 or fabric softener from the fabric softener tank 18 and supplies it to the second water channel W12 to the third water channel W13. The detergent or fabric softener supplied to the second water channel W12 to the third water channel W13 is mixed with water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A and supplied to the water tank 12. In this embodiment, the detergent contained in the detergent tank 17 and the water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A mix downstream of the pump unit 154 in the first water supply channel W1. Therefore, in this embodiment, the mixing point where the agent and water mix in the first water supply channel W1 is downstream of the pump unit 154 in the first water supply channel W1.

[0030] The foam generator 155 is a device that generates foam. The configuration of the foam generator 155 and its placement will now be explained with reference to Figures 3, 4A, and 4B. Figures 4A and 4B show the configuration of the foam generator 155 and the location of the foam generator 155.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, the waterway W11 has a first branch waterway W111 and a second branch waterway W112 between the first water supply valve 152A and the bypass waterway W14. The first branch waterway W111 and the second branch waterway W112 branch off downstream of the first water supply valve 152A. Furthermore, the first branch waterway W111 and the second branch waterway W112 merge upstream of the mixing point, more specifically upstream of the bypass waterway W14.

[0032] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the first branch channel W111 and the second branch channel W112 are connected at one end to a three-way valve 156 and at the other end to channel W113, which constitutes channel W11. The three-way valve 156 is connected to channel W114, which constitutes channel W11. One end of channel W114 is connected to the first water supply valve 152A. One end of channel W113 is connected to the first branch channel W111 and the second branch channel W112, and the other end is connected to the three-way valve unit 153.

[0033] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the foam generator 155 has a main body 155C with an inlet 155A and an outlet 155B. A mesh member 155D is placed inside the main body 155C near the outlet 155B. When water flows into the foam generator 155 from the inlet 155A, air is introduced into the main body 155C through air holes 155E formed around the edge of the mesh member 155D, generating foam inside the main body 155C, and water containing the foam is discharged from the outlet 155B. In addition, a structure 15F is placed to the left of the mesh member 155D in Figures 4A and 4B.

[0034] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the foam generator 155 is positioned in the first branch channel W111 such that its discharge port 155B faces downstream in the direction of water flow. In the first branch channel W111, an air intake vent 157 is formed near the foam generator 155 between the three-way valve 156 and the foam generator 155. This allows air to be incorporated into the water flowing into the inlet 155A of the foam generator 155, enabling the foam generator 155 to generate more foam. A check valve 158 is attached to the air intake vent 157. As mentioned earlier, the air intake vent 157 is formed near the foam generator 155, but the distance between the foam generator 155 and the air intake vent 157 is, for example, only a few millimeters. In this way, by forming the air holes 157 near the foam generator 155, the foam generator 155 can more easily take in air from the air holes 157.

[0035] The three-way valve 159 can switch the flow path of water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A to either the first branch waterway W111 or the second branch waterway W112. Figure 4A shows the state in which the three-way valve 156 connects the water channel W114 and the first branch water channel W111. In the state shown in Figure 4A, when water is supplied from the first water supply valve 152A, the water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A flows into the first branch water channel W111. When water flows into the first branch water channel W111, foam is generated by the foam generator 155, and water containing foam is supplied to the downstream side of the foam generator 155. Figure 4B shows the state in which the three-way valve 156 connects the water channel W114 and the second branch water channel W112. In the state shown in Figure 4B, when water is supplied from the first water supply valve 152A, the water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A flows into the second branch water channel W112. Since the foam generator 155 is not installed in the second branch water channel W112, water without foam from the foam generator 155 is supplied downstream of the second branch water channel W112.

[0036] Next, with reference to Figure 5, the configuration related to the control of the washing machine 1 will be described. Figure 5 shows the configuration of the control system for washing machine 1.

[0037] The washing machine 1 includes a control unit 100. The control unit 100 includes a processor 110 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or MPU (Micro Processing Unit), memory 120, and interface circuits to which other devices and sensors are connected.

[0038] The control unit 100 is connected to devices 101 related to washing, such as the first water supply valve 152A, the second water supply valve 152B, the third water supply valve 152C, the detergent-side coil 153C, the fabric softener-side coil 153D, the drive motor 154B, the three-way valve 156, the drive motor for rotating the washing tub 13, and the drain valve for draining the washing water. The control unit 100 is also connected to devices 102 related to drying, such as a heater and a heat pump. The control unit 100 is also connected to the operation panel 20. In addition, other devices may be connected to the control unit 100.

[0039] The control unit 100 executes various operating courses by having the processor 110 read and execute the control program 121 stored in the memory 120. The operating courses that the control unit 100 can execute include washing courses and washing and drying courses.

[0040] The washing course is, for example, an operating course consisting of a water supply process, a washing process, a rinsing process, and a spin-drying process. The control unit 100 controls the washing-related devices 101 to execute the washing course.

[0041] Furthermore, the wash-and-dry course is an operating course that includes a drying process in addition to each step of the washing course. The control unit 100 controls the washing device 101 and the drying device 102 to execute the wash-and-dry course.

[0042] [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of the washing machine 1 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of washing machine 1. Figure 6 shows the operation of washing machine 1 when a wash cycle or a wash-and-dry cycle is performed.

[0043] As shown in Figure 6, in the washing course, the control unit 100 performs a water supply process (step S1), and when the water supply process is completed, it performs a washing process (step S2), when the washing process is completed, it performs a rinsing process (step S3), and when the rinsing process is completed, it performs a spin-drying process (step S4).

[0044] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, in the wash-and-dry course, once the dewatering process is completed, the control unit 100 executes a drying process (step S5).

[0045] In this embodiment, the control unit 100 performs the following operations during the water supply process.

[0046] [1-2-1. Water supply process when automatic supply of agent is set] First, we will explain the operation of the control unit 100 during the water supply process when automatic supply of the agent is set. In this water supply process, the control unit 100 energizes the detergent-side coil 153C. This causes the detergent-side three-way valve 153A to switch the liquid flowing downstream of the detergent-side three-way valve 153A to the detergent in the detergent tank 17. When the detergent-side coil 153C is energized, the control unit 100 drives the drive motor 154B. As a result, the detergent in the detergent tank 17 is supplied to the second waterway W12 to the third waterway W13. Next, the control unit 100 stops the power supply to the detergent-side coil 153C. As a result, the detergent-side three-way valve 153A switches the liquid flowing downstream of the detergent-side three-way valve 153A to the water supplied by the first water supply valve 152A. When the detergent-side coil 153C is de-energized, the control unit 100 sets the state of the three-way valve 156 so that the water channel W114 and the first branch water channel W111 are in communication. Then, the control unit 100 opens the first water supply valve 152A to supply water to the water tank 12. As a result, in the first water supply channel W1, water containing foam flows downstream of the foam generator 155. At the mixing point, the water containing foam from the foam generator 155 and the detergent supplied from the detergent tank 17 are mixed. Therefore, in the water supply process when automatic supply of detergent is set, foamed detergent is supplied to the water tank 12.

[0047] [1-2-2. Water supply process when automatic supply of agent is not set] Next, we will describe the operation of the control unit 100 during the water supply process when automatic supply of the agent is not set. In this water supply process, the control unit 100 opens the second water supply valve 152B to supply water to the water tank 12. As a result, in the water supply process when automatic supply of detergent is not set, the detergent contained in the detergent storage unit 211 is supplied to the water tank 12 along with the water.

[0048] In this embodiment, the control unit 100 performs the following operations during the rinsing process.

[0049] [1-2-3. Rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is set] First, we will explain the operation of the control unit 100 during the rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is set. In this case, towards the end of the rinsing process, the control unit 100 energizes the fabric softener coil 153D. This causes the fabric softener three-way valve 153B to switch the liquid flowing downstream of the fabric softener three-way valve 153B to the fabric softener in the fabric softener tank 18. When the fabric softener coil 153D is energized, the control unit 100 drives the drive motor 154B. As a result, the fabric softener in the fabric softener tank 18 is supplied to the second waterway W12 to the third waterway W13. Next, the control unit 100 stops the power supply to the fabric softener coil 153D. As a result, the fabric softener three-way valve 153B switches the liquid flowing downstream of the fabric softener three-way valve 153B to the liquid flowing from the detergent three-way valve 153A. When the fabric softener coil 153D is de-energized, the control unit 100 sets the state of the three-way valve 156 so that the water channel W114 and the second branch water channel W112 are in communication. Then, the control unit 100 supplies water to the water tank 12 by opening the first water supply valve 152A. As a result, water does not flow to the foam generator 155 in the first water supply channel W1. Therefore, in the rinsing process when automatic supply of the softener is set, fabric softener with suppressed foaming is supplied to the water tank 12.

[0050] Incidentally, detergent foam has the property of enveloping particles that adhere to the surface, and when it adheres to dirt, it draws the dirt inside and traps it. Therefore, actively supplying foam to create bubbles in detergent leads to improved cleaning effectiveness. On the other hand, fabric softener is an agent that coats clothes and loosens the fibers to make them soft, so it does not require as much foam as detergent. Therefore, in this embodiment, fabric softener is supplied to the water tank 12 by water that does not contain bubbles from the foam generator 155.

[0051] [1-2-4. Rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is set] Next, we will describe the operation of the control unit 100 during the rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is not set. In this case, towards the end of the rinsing process, the control unit 100 opens the third water supply valve 152C to supply water to the water tank 12. As a result, in rinsing processes where automatic supply of detergent is not set, the fabric softener contained in the detergent storage unit 211 is supplied to the water tank 12 along with the water.

[0052] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the washing machine 1 comprises a first water supply valve 152A, a water tank 12 to which water is supplied from the first water supply valve 152A, a first water supply channel W1 connecting the first water supply valve 152A and the water tank 12, and a foam generator 155 that generates foam in the water supplied to the water tank 12. The foam generator 155 is located upstream of the mixing point in the first water supply channel W1 where the water supplied to the water tank 12 and the detergent supplied to the water tank 12 mix.

[0053] As a result, by supplying water from the first water supply valve 152A, foamed detergent can be supplied to the water tank 12. Therefore, the washing machine 1 does not need to rotate the washing tub 13 to foam the detergent, drive a pump to foam the detergent, or have a dedicated supply path to supply foamed detergent. Thus, foamed detergent can be supplied to the water tank 12 with a simple configuration. In addition, since foamed detergent can be supplied during the water supply process, foamed detergent can be applied to the laundry from the start of the washing process. Therefore, the laundry can be washed with foamed detergent from the start of the washing process, improving the cleaning effect on the laundry.

[0054] The washing machine 1 is equipped with a three-way valve 156 that can switch the flow path of water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A to either the first branch water channel W111 or the second branch water channel W112. The first water supply channel W1 includes the first branch water channel W111 and the second branch water channel W112. The first branch water channel W111 and the second branch water channel W112 branch downstream of the first water supply valve 152A in the first water supply channel W1 and merge upstream of the mixing point. The first branch water channel W111 is equipped with a foam generator 155, while the second branch water channel W112 is not equipped with a foam generator 155.

[0055] As a result, the three-way valve 156 can switch the water flowing into the first water supply channel W1 between water containing foam from the foam generator 155 and water without foam from the foam generator 155. Therefore, when an agent that does not need to be foamed, such as fabric softener, is supplied to the first water supply channel W1, the water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A can suppress the foaming of the agent.

[0056] In the first water supply channel W1, an air vent 157 is formed near the foam generator 155 between the first water supply valve 152A and the foam generator 155, allowing air to be drawn into the first water supply channel W1. As mentioned earlier, the air vent 157 is formed near the foam generator 155, but the distance between the foam generator 155 and the air vent 157 is, for example, only a few millimeters. By forming the air vent 157 near the foam generator 155 in this way, the foam generator 155 can more easily draw in air from the air vent 157.

[0057] This allows air to be incorporated into the water flowing into the foam generator 155, enabling the foam generator 155 to generate more foam. As a result, the detergent can be foamed more effectively, and detergent containing more foam can be supplied to the water tank 12.

[0058] (Embodiment 2) Next, Embodiment 2 will be described. The description of Embodiment 2 will mainly focus on the differences from Embodiment 1. In addition, in the description of Embodiment 2, the same reference numerals will be used for the components of the washing machine 1 as in Embodiment 1, and detailed descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0059] [2-1. Structure] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the automatic agent supply device 15 in Embodiment 2. Compared with Embodiment 1, the automatic agent supply device 15 in Embodiment 2 is equipped with an L-shaped port three-way valve 159 instead of the three-way valve 156. The three-way valve 159 is an example of a "water volume adjustment unit".

[0060] Figures 8A and 8B show the state of the three-way valve 159. As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the three-way valve 159 is connected to the water channel W114, the first branch water channel W111, and the second branch water channel W112.

[0061] The three-way valve 159 is a valve that can change the water flow rate of the first branch channel W111 and the water flow rate of the second branch channel W112. Figure 8A shows the case where the opening of the three-way valve 159 for the first branch channel W111 is greater than the opening of the three-way valve 159 for the second branch channel W112. In the state shown in Figure 8A, when water is supplied from the first water supply valve 152A, a larger amount of water is supplied to the first branch channel W111 than to the second branch channel W112. Figure 8B shows the case where the opening of the three-way valve 159 for the first branch channel W111 is smaller than the opening of the three-way valve 159 for the second branch channel W112. In the state shown in Figure 8B, when water is supplied from the first water supply valve 152A, a smaller amount of water is supplied to the first branch channel W111 than to the second branch channel W112.

[0062] Returning to the description of Figure 7, and comparing it with Embodiment 1, the automatic agent supply device 15 in Embodiment 2 is equipped with a temperature sensor 160. The temperature sensor 160 is a sensor that acquires the temperature of the water supplied to the water tank 12, and is located in the first water supply channel W1 between the first water supply valve 152A and the three-way valve 159. The water temperature value from the temperature sensor 160 is output to the control unit 100. The temperature sensor 160 is an example of an "acquisition unit" and a "sensor".

[0063] In Embodiment 2, the first water supply valve 152A is an example of a "water supply valve." Also in Embodiment 2, the first water supply channel W1 is an example of a "water channel." Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, the mixing point in the first water supply channel W1 where the detergent and water mix is ​​the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0064] Next, with reference to Figure 9, the configuration related to the control of the washing machine 1 in Embodiment 2 will be described. Figure 9 shows the configuration of the control system for washing machine 1.

[0065] In contrast to Embodiment 1, in Embodiment 2, a three-way valve 159 and a temperature sensor 160 are connected to the control unit 100 as devices 101 related to washing.

[0066] Furthermore, compared to Embodiment 1, the memory 120 in Embodiment 2 stores detergent type information 122 and a ratio table 123.

[0067] Detergent type information 122 indicates the type of detergent in the detergent tank 17. The type of detergent in the detergent tank 17 can be set by the user via an external terminal or control panel 20 that can communicate with the washing machine 1, and the detergent type indicated by detergent type information 122 is the type of detergent set by the user.

[0068] Figure 10 shows an example of ratio table 123. Ratio Table 123 is a table showing water volume ratios. The water volume ratio is the ratio that indicates how much water is supplied to the first branch channel W111 relative to the water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A. Figure 10 shows an example where the water volume ratio is shown as a percentage. For example, a water volume ratio of "100%" indicates that all the water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A is supplied to the first branch channel W111. Also, for example, a water volume ratio of "80%" indicates that 80% of the amount of water supplied per unit time from the first water supply valve 152A is supplied to the first branch channel W111.

[0069] The ratio table 123 associates a single water volume ratio with each combination of the type of detergent that the detergent tank 17 can accommodate and the temperature of the water supplied from the first water supply valve 152A.

[0070] Generally, the ease with which a detergent lathers varies depending on the type of detergent. Therefore, the ratio table 123 includes water volume ratios that can suppress insufficient lathering for each type of detergent. Also, generally, the ease with which a detergent lathers varies depending on the temperature of the water it is mixed with. Therefore, the ratio table 123 includes water volume ratios that can suppress insufficient lathering for each water temperature.

[0071] In Embodiment 2, the control unit 100 executes various operating courses by having the processor 110 read and execute the control program 121. Compared with Embodiment 1, the control unit 100 in Embodiment 2 operates differently in the water supply process and the rinsing process. This operation will be explained in section [2-2. Operation].

[0072] [2-2. Operation] Next, the operation of the washing machine 1 in Embodiment 2 will be described. Compared to Embodiment 1, Embodiment 2 differs in the operation during the water supply process when automatic supply of the agent is set, and in the operation during the rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is set.

[0073] [2-2-1. Water supply process when automatic supply of agent is set] The operation of the control unit 100 during the water supply process when automatic supply of the agent is set will be described below. In this water supply process, the control unit 100 operates in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, supplying detergent from the detergent tank 17 to the second water channel W12 to the third water channel W13. Next, the control unit 100 de-energizes the detergent-side coil 153C and opens the first water supply valve 152A to begin flowing water into the first water supply channel W1. Next, the control unit 100 obtains the water temperature value from the temperature sensor 160. Then, the control unit 100 obtains the water volume ratio corresponding to the detergent type indicated by the detergent type information 122 and the water temperature obtained by the temperature sensor 160 from the ratio table 123, and sets the opening degree of the three-way valve 159 for the first branch water channel W111 to match the obtained water volume ratio. The opening degree of the three-way valve 159 corresponding to the water volume ratio is set in advance and stored in the memory 120. Through the above operations, in the water supply process when automatic detergent supply is set, foamed detergent is supplied to the water tank 12 in an amount of foam corresponding to the type of detergent and the water temperature.

[0074] [2-2-2. Rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is set] Next, we will describe in detail the operation during the rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is set. In this rinsing process, the control unit 100 operates in the same manner as in Embodiment 1, supplying the fabric softener from the fabric softener tank 18 to the third water channel W13. Next, the control unit 100 de-energizes the fabric softener coil 153D and sets the opening degree of the three-way valve 159 to the first branch water channel W111 so that the water volume ratio becomes "0%". The control unit 100 also opens the first water supply valve 152A to supply water to the water tank 12. As a result, during the water supply process, fabric softener with suppressed foaming is supplied to the water tank 12.

[0075] [2-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the washing machine 1 includes a three-way valve 159 that can change the water volume of the first branch water channel W111 and the water volume of the second branch water channel W112, and a control unit 100 that controls the three-way valve 159. The control unit 100 changes the water volume of the first branch water channel W111 and the water volume of the second branch water channel W112 using the three-way valve 159 based on the type of detergent supplied to the water tank 12.

[0076] Generally, the ease with which detergents foam varies depending on the type of detergent. Therefore, the water volume of the first branch channel W111 and the water volume of the second branch channel W112 are changed according to the type of detergent. This allows for the supply of foamed detergent to the water tank 12 while suppressing insufficient foaming.

[0077] The washing machine 1 is equipped with a temperature sensor 160 that acquires the water temperature of the water supplied to the water tank 12. The control unit 100 changes the water volume of the first branch water channel W111 and the water volume of the second branch water channel W112 using a three-way valve 159 based on the water temperature acquired by the temperature sensor 160.

[0078] Generally, the ease with which detergent lathers varies depending on the temperature of the water it is mixed with. Therefore, the water volume of the first branch channel W111 and the water volume of the second branch channel W112 are changed according to the temperature of the water mixed with the detergent. This allows for the supply of lathered detergent to the water tank 12 while suppressing insufficient lathering.

[0079] The temperature sensor 160 is positioned between the first water supply valve 152A and the foam generator 155 in the first water supply channel W1.

[0080] According to this, the temperature sensor 160 can obtain the temperature of the water before it is mixed with the detergent, and therefore can accurately obtain the temperature of the water when it is mixed with the detergent. As a result, it is possible to supply foamed detergent to the water tank 12 while further suppressing insufficient foaming of the detergent.

[0081] The washing machine 1 can automatically supply multiple types of agents to the water tank 12 via the first water supply channel W1. The control unit 100 changes the water volume of the first branch water channel W111 and the water volume of the second branch water channel W112 using a three-way valve 159, according to the type of agent automatically supplied to the water tank 12.

[0082] According to this, the water volume of the first branch channel W111 and the water volume of the second branch channel W112 are changed depending on the type of agent. Therefore, it is possible to prevent agents that do not need to be foamed from being supplied to the tank 12 in a foamed state.

[0083] (Embodiment 3) Next, Embodiment 3 will be described. The description of Embodiment 3 will mainly focus on the differences from Embodiment 1. In addition, in the description of Embodiment 3, the same reference numerals will be used for the components of the washing machine 1 as in Embodiment 1, and detailed descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0084] [3-1. Structure] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the automatic agent supply device 15 in Embodiment 3. In comparison with Embodiment 1, the foam generator 155 in Embodiment 3 is located between the second water supply valve 152B and the tank housing case 151 in the second water supply channel W2, and is positioned near the detergent storage section 211. The foam generator 155 is positioned near the detergent storage section 211 to facilitate the inflow of air from the detergent storage section 211 and the transmission of that air to the foam generator 155.

[0085] Compared to Embodiment 1, the automatic agent supply device 15 in Embodiment 3 does not have a foam generator 155 in the first water supply channel W1. Also, the automatic agent supply device 15 in Embodiment 3 does not have a three-way valve 156 in the first water supply channel W1, and the water channel W11 does not branch into a first branch water channel W111 and a second branch water channel W112 midway through.

[0086] In Embodiment 3, the second water supply valve 152B is an example of a "water supply valve". Also in Embodiment 3, the second water supply channel W2 is an example of a "water channel". Furthermore, in Embodiment 3, the mixing point where detergent and water mix in the second water supply channel W2 is the detergent storage section 211 of the tank storage case 151.

[0087] [3-2. Operation] Next, the operation of the washing machine 1 in Embodiment 3 will be described. In this embodiment, the control unit 100 performs the following operations during the water supply process and the rinsing process.

[0088] [3-2-1. Water supply process when automatic supply of agent is set] First, we will explain the operation of the control unit 100 during the water supply process when automatic supply of the agent is set. In this water supply process, the control unit 100 supplies detergent from the detergent tank 17 to the second water channel W12 to the third water channel W13, similar to the first embodiment. Next, the control unit 100 stops the power supply to the detergent-side coil 153C, opens the first water supply valve 152A, and supplies the detergent along with the water to the water tank 12.

[0089] [3-2-2. Water supply process when automatic supply of agent is not set] Next, we will describe the operation of the control unit 100 during the water supply process when automatic supply of the agent is not set. In this water supply process, the control unit 100 operates in the same manner as in Embodiment 1. However, compared to Embodiment 1, in this embodiment, at the mixing point, the water containing foam from the foam generator 155 and the detergent contained in the detergent storage unit 211 are mixed. As a result, in the water supply process when automatic detergent supply is not set, foamed detergent is supplied to the water tank 12.

[0090] [3-2-3. Rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is set] Next, the operation of the control unit 100 during the rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is set will be described in detail. In this case, towards the end of the rinsing process, the control unit 100 supplies fabric softener from the fabric softener tank 18 to the second water channel W12 to the third water channel W13, similar to the first embodiment. Next, the control unit 100 stops the power supply to the fabric softener coil 153D, opens the first water supply valve 152A, and supplies the fabric softener along with water to the water tank 12.

[0091] [3-2-4. Rinsing process when automatic supply of agent is not set] Next, the operation of the control unit 100 during the rinsing process when automatic supply of the agent is not set will be described. In this case, the operation of the control unit 100 at the end of the rinsing process is the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0092] [3-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, the washing machine 1 comprises a second water supply valve 152B, a water tank 12 to which water is supplied from the second water supply valve 152B, a second water supply channel W2 connecting the second water supply valve 152B and the water tank 12, and a foam generator 155 that generates foam in the water supplied to the water tank 12. The foam generator 155 is located upstream of the mixing point in the second water supply channel W2 where the water supplied to the water tank 12 and the detergent supplied to the water tank 12 mix.

[0093] This provides the same effects as in Embodiment 1.

[0094] (Embodiment 4) Next, Embodiment 4 will be described. The description of Embodiment 4 will mainly explain the differences from the embodiments described above. In addition, in the description of Embodiment 4, the same reference numerals will be used for the components of the washing machine 1 that are the same as those in the embodiments described above, and their detailed descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0095] [4-1. Structure] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the automatic agent supply device 15 in Embodiment 4. In contrast to Embodiment 2, in Embodiment 4, a portion of the second water supply channel W2 between the second water supply valve 152B and the tank housing case 151 is divided into a first branch channel W111 and a second branch channel W112. In Embodiment 4, the temperature sensor 160, the three-way valve 159, and the foam generator 155 are arranged in the second water supply channel W2 in the same manner as in Embodiment 2. Although not shown in the figures, in Embodiment 4, the air vent 157 and the check valve 158 are arranged in the second water supply channel W2 in the same manner as in Embodiment 2.

[0096] Furthermore, compared to Embodiment 2, the automatic agent supply device 15 in Embodiment 4 does not have a foam generator 155 in the first water supply channel W1. Also, the automatic agent supply device 15 in Embodiment 4 does not have a three-way valve 159 in the first water supply channel W1, and a portion of the water channel W11 does not branch into a first branch water channel W111 and a second branch water channel W112.

[0097] In Embodiment 4, the second water supply valve 152B is an example of a "water supply valve". Also, in Embodiment 3, the second water supply channel W2 is an example of a "water channel". Furthermore, in Embodiment 4, the mixing point in the second water supply channel W2 where the detergent and water mix is ​​the same as in Embodiment 3.

[0098] Figure 13 shows the configuration of the control system of the washing machine 1 in Embodiment 4. In contrast to Embodiment 1, the memory 120 in Embodiment 4 stores detergent type information 124 and a ratio table 125.

[0099] The detergent type information 124 indicates the type of detergent stored in the detergent storage unit 211. The type of detergent in the detergent storage unit 211 can be set by the user via an external terminal or control panel 20 that can communicate with the washing machine 1, and the detergent type indicated by the detergent type information 124 is the type of detergent set by the user. Ratio Table 125 includes the contents of Ratio Table 123, plus the water volume ratio for each pair of powder detergent type and water temperature.

[0100] [4-2. Operation] Next, the operation of the washing machine 1 in Embodiment 4 will be described. In this embodiment, the control unit 100 performs the following operations during the water supply process and the rinsing process.

[0101] [4-2-1. Water supply process when automatic supply of agent is set] The operation of the control unit 100 during the water supply process when automatic supply of the agent is set will be described below. In this case, during the water supply process, the control unit 100 operates in the same manner as in Embodiment 3.

[0102] [4-2-2. Water supply process when automatic supply of agent is not set] The operation of the control unit 100 during the water supply process when automatic supply of the agent is not set will be described. In this water supply process, the control unit 100 opens the second water supply valve 152B to begin flowing water into the second water supply channel W2 and simultaneously obtains the water temperature from the temperature sensor 160. Next, the control unit 100 obtains the water volume ratio corresponding to the detergent type indicated by the detergent type information 124 and the water temperature obtained by the temperature sensor 160 from the ratio table 125, and sets the opening degree of the three-way valve 159 for the first branch water channel W111 to match the obtained water volume ratio. As a result, water containing foam from the foam generator 155 is supplied to the second water supply channel W2. At the mixing point, the water containing foam from the foam generator 155 and the detergent in the detergent storage section 211 are mixed. Therefore, in the water supply process when automatic supply of detergent is not set, foamed detergent is supplied to the water tank 12 in an amount of foam corresponding to the detergent type and water temperature.

[0103] [4-2-3. Rinsing Process] Regarding the rinsing process, the control unit 100 operates in the same manner as in Embodiment 3.

[0104] [4-3. Effects, etc.] According to Embodiment 4, the same effects as in Embodiment 2 are achieved.

[0105] (Other embodiments) As described above, Embodiments 1-4 have been explained as examples disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited thereto 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 Embodiments 1-4. Therefore, other embodiments are described below as examples.

[0106] In the embodiment described above, a case in which two tanks are attached to the tank housing case 151 was illustrated. In other words, the embodiment described above illustrated a case in which there are two tanks that contain the automatically supplied agent. However, the number of tanks attached to the tank housing case 151 may be three. In this case, the three-way valve unit 153 is equipped with three-way valves and coils that drive the three-way valves in a number corresponding to the number of tanks. In this case, the third tank may contain bleach, stain remover, neutral detergent, etc.

[0107] In the above-described embodiment, if the agent automatically supplied to the water tank 12 is detergent, the water volume of the first branch channel W111 and the second branch channel W112 is changed by referring to ratio tables 123 and 125. If the agent automatically supplied to the water tank 12 is fabric softener, water is not supplied to the first branch channel W111, but water is supplied to the second branch channel W112. In other embodiments, if the agent automatically supplied to the water tank 12 is, for example, a neutral detergent, water may be supplied to the first water supply channel W1 at a water volume ratio corresponding to the neutral detergent. In other embodiments, if the agent automatically supplied to the water tank 12 is bleach, similar to the fabric softener, water may not be supplied to the first branch channel W111, but water may be supplied to the second branch channel W112.

[0108] In the embodiment described above, one pump unit 154 supplies the agent in the tank to the first water supply channel W1. In other embodiments, equipment for supplying the agent in the tank to the first water supply channel W1 may be provided for each tank.

[0109] In other embodiments, instead of the temperature sensor 160, a sensor for acquiring the hardness of the water supplied to the tank 12 or a sensor for acquiring the water quality of the water supplied to the tank 12 may be provided. Examples of water quality include indicators such as alkalinity, acidity, neutrality, and hydrogen ion concentration. In these other embodiments, the ratio tables 123 and 125 include water volume ratios corresponding to hardness and water quality instead of water temperature. In other embodiments, the control unit 100 changes the water volume of the first branch channel W111 and the water volume of the second branch channel W112 using the three-way valve 159 based on the hardness or water quality of the water supplied to the tank 12. These sensors may also be placed inside or near the tank 12.

[0110] In the embodiment described above, the case in which the "acquisition unit" is a sensor was illustrated. In other embodiments, the "acquisition unit" may be implemented as a function of the processor 110. In these other embodiments, the "acquisition unit," which is a functional part of the processor 110, acquires either the temperature, hardness, or water quality of the water supplied to the water tank 12 from an external device that communicates with the washing machine 1.

[0111] In other embodiments, the air vent 157 may not be formed. Also, in other embodiments, if the air vent 157 is not formed, the check valve 158 may not be provided.

[0112] In the embodiments described above, a T-port type three-way valve 156 was exemplified as the "flow path switching unit." However, the "flow path switching unit" is not limited to a T-port type three-way valve 156. Also, in the embodiments described above, an L-port type three-way valve 159 was exemplified as the "water volume changing unit." However, the "water volume changing unit" is not limited to an L-port type three-way valve 159.

[0113] In other embodiments, the "washing machine" may be configured not to perform a drying process.

[0114] In the embodiment described above, a drum-type washing machine 1 was used as an example, but the "washing machine" may also be a top-loading type.

[0115] The processor 110 may consist of a single processor or multiple processors. The processor 110 may also be hardware programmed to implement the corresponding functional units. That is, the processor 110 may consist of, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0116] The configuration of the washing machine 1 shown in Figures 5, 9, and 13 is merely an example, and the specific implementation is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily required that hardware corresponding to each part be implemented individually; it is also possible to have a configuration in which a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of each part. Furthermore, some of the functions realized by software in the above-described embodiment may be implemented as hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented as software.

[0117] 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.

[0118] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0119] (Technology 1) A washing machine comprising: a water supply valve; a water tank supplied with water from the water supply valve; a water channel connecting the water supply valve and the water tank; and a foam generator for generating foam in the water supplied to the water tank, wherein the foam generator is located upstream of a mixing point in the water channel where the water supplied to the water tank and the detergent supplied to the water tank mix. According to this method, by supplying water from the water supply valve, foamed detergent can be supplied to the water tank. Therefore, the washing machine does not need to rotate the washing tub to foam the detergent, drive a pump to foam the detergent, or have a dedicated supply path to supply foamed detergent. Thus, foamed detergent can be supplied to the water tank with a simple configuration. In addition, since foamed detergent can be supplied during the water supply process, foamed detergent can be applied to the laundry from the start of the washing process. Therefore, the laundry can be washed with foamed detergent from the start of the washing process, improving the cleaning effect on the laundry.

[0120] (Technology 2) The washing machine according to Technical 1, comprising a flow path switching unit that can switch the flow path of water supplied from the water supply valve to a first branch water channel or a second branch water channel, wherein the water channel includes the first branch water channel and the second branch water channel, the first branch water channel and the second branch water channel branch downstream of the water supply valve and merge upstream of the mixing point, the foam generator is provided in the first branch water channel, while the foam generator is not provided in the second branch water channel. According to this, the flow path switching section allows the water flowing through the channel to be switched between water containing foam from a foam generator and water without foam from a foam generator. Therefore, when an agent that does not need to foam, such as fabric softener, is supplied to the channel, the foaming of the agent can be suppressed by the water supply from the water supply valve.

[0121] (Technology 3) The washing machine according to Technical Reference 2, comprising: a water volume changing unit capable of changing the water volume of a first branch water channel and the water volume of a second branch water channel; and a control unit that controls the water volume changing unit, wherein the water channel includes the first branch water channel and the second branch water channel, the first branch water channel and the second branch water channel branch downstream of the water supply valve and merge upstream of the mixing point, the foam generator is provided in the first branch water channel while the foam generator is not provided in the second branch water channel, and the control unit changes the water volume of the first branch water channel and the water volume of the second branch water channel by the water volume changing unit based on the type of detergent supplied to the water tank. Generally, the ease with which detergents foam varies depending on the type of detergent. Therefore, the water flow rates of the first and second branch channels are changed according to the type of detergent. This allows for the supply of foamed detergent to the tank while suppressing insufficient foaming.

[0122] (Technology 4) The washing machine according to Technology 3, further comprising an acquisition unit that acquires any of the water temperature, hardness, and water quality of the water supplied to the water tank, and the control unit that changes the water volume of the first branch water channel and the water volume of the second branch water channel based on any of the water temperature, hardness, and water quality acquired by the acquisition unit, by the water volume changing unit. Generally, the ease with which detergent lathers varies depending on the temperature, hardness, and water quality of the water it is mixed with. Therefore, the water volume of the first branch channel and the water volume of the second branch channel are changed according to the temperature, hardness, and water quality of the water being mixed with the detergent. This allows for the supply of foamed detergent to the tank while suppressing insufficient lathering.

[0123] (Technology 5) The washing machine according to Technical Reference 4, wherein the acquisition unit is a sensor disposed between the water supply valve and the mixing point in the waterway. According to this, the acquisition unit can acquire one of the following: water temperature, hardness, or water quality, from the water before it is mixed with detergent. Therefore, it can accurately acquire one of the following: the temperature, hardness, or water quality of the water mixed with detergent. Thus, it is possible to supply foamed detergent to the water tank while further suppressing insufficient foaming of the detergent.

[0124] (Technology 6) The washing machine according to any one of technologies 3 to 5, wherein the washing machine is capable of automatically supplying multiple types of agents to the water tank via the water channel, and the control unit changes the water volume of the first branch water channel and the water volume of the second branch water channel by the water volume changing unit according to the type of agent automatically supplied to the water tank. According to this method, the water flow rates of the first and second branch channels are changed depending on the type of agent. This prevents agents that do not require foaming from being supplied to the tank in a foamy state.

[0125] (Technology 7) The washing machine according to any one of the technologies 1 to 6, wherein the water channel has an air vent formed between the water supply valve and the foam generator to take air into the water channel. According to this method, air can be incorporated into the water flowing into the foam generator, allowing the foam generator to produce more foam. Therefore, the detergent can be foamed more effectively, and a detergent containing more foam can be supplied to the water tank. [Industrial applicability]

[0126] As described above, the washing machine according to the present invention can be used for the purpose of supplying foamed detergent to a water tank. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0127] 1. Washing machine 10 cabinets 11 Top section 12 aquariums 13 Washing tub 14, 16 Lid 15. Automatic drug dispensing device 17 Detergent tank 18 Fabric softener tank 19 Aperture 20 Control Panel 21-pack case 22 connecting hoses 22A Branch waterway 100 Control Unit 101 Laundry-related devices 102 Devices related to drying 110 processors 120 memory 121 Control Program 122, 124 Detergent Type Information 123, 125 Ratio Table 151 Tank storage case 151A 1st water inlet 151B 2nd water inlet 151C Drain port 152 Water dispenser 152A First water supply valve (water supply valve) 152B Second water supply valve (water supply valve) 152C Third water supply valve 153 Three-way valve unit 153A Detergent side three-way valve 153B Fabric softener side three-way valve 153C Detergent side coil 153D Fabric softener side coil 154 Pump Unit 154A Piston 154B Drive Motor 155 Foam Generator 155A Inlet 155B Discharge port 155C Main Unit 155D Mesh Member 155E Air vent 156 Three-way valve (flow path switching section) 157 Air vents 158 Stop valve 159 Three-way valve (water volume switching section) 160 Temperature sensor (acquisition unit, sensor) 211 Detergent storage compartment 212 Fabric softener compartment CA center axis R1 Detergent supply route R2 Fabric softener supply channel W1 1st water supply channel (water channel) W11, W12, W13, W15, W113, W114 waterways W111 First Branch Channel W112 Second Branch Channel W13 3rd waterway W14 roundabout waterway W2 Second Water Supply Line (Waterway) W3 Third Water Supply Line

Claims

1. Water supply valve and A water tank supplied with water from the aforementioned water supply valve, A waterway connecting the water supply valve and the water tank, The tank is equipped with a foam generator that generates foam in the water supplied to the tank, The foam generator is, In the aforementioned waterway, it is located upstream of the mixing point where the water supplied to the tank and the detergent supplied to the tank mix. washing machine.

2. The water supply valve is provided with a flow path switching unit that can switch the flow path of the water supplied from the valve to either a first branch waterway or a second branch waterway. The waterway includes the first branch waterway and the second branch waterway, The first branch channel and the second branch channel branch off downstream of the water supply valve in the channel and merge upstream of the mixing point. The foam generator is provided in the first branch channel, while the foam generator is not provided in the second branch channel. The washing machine according to claim 1.

3. It comprises a water volume changing unit capable of changing the water volume of the first branch channel and the water volume of the second branch channel, and a control unit that controls the water volume changing unit, The waterway includes the first branch waterway and the second branch waterway, The first branch channel and the second branch channel branch off downstream of the water supply valve in the channel and merge upstream of the mixing point. The foam generator is provided in the first branch channel, while the foam generator is not provided in the second branch channel. The control unit changes the water volume of the first branch channel and the water volume of the second branch channel based on the type of detergent supplied to the water tank, using the water volume changing unit. The washing machine according to claim 2.

4. The tank is equipped with an acquisition unit that acquires one of the following: water temperature, hardness, or water quality of the water supplied to the tank. The control unit changes the water volume of the first branch channel and the water volume of the second branch channel based on any of the water temperature, hardness, and water quality acquired by the acquisition unit, using the water volume changing unit. The washing machine according to claim 3.

5. The acquisition unit is a sensor positioned between the water supply valve and the mixing point in the waterway. The washing machine according to claim 4.

6. The washing machine is capable of automatically supplying multiple types of agents to the water tank via the water channel. The control unit changes the water volume of the first branch channel and the water volume of the second branch channel by the water volume changing unit according to the type of agent automatically supplied to the water tank. The washing machine according to any one of claims 3 to 5.

7. The water channel has an air vent formed between the water supply valve and the foam generator to allow air to enter the water channel. A washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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