washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of suppressing jamming of a liquid agent between a tank for storing the liquid agent and the outer tank.SOLUTION: The washing machine of the present disclosure comprises an outer tank elastically supported in a housing, a feed valve for feeding water to the outer tank, a first tank for accommodating a liquid agent to be supplied to the outer tank, a first automatic liquid agent feed unit connected to the first tank, which has a first discharge port 70 for discharging the liquid agent downwardly, and a liquid discharge channel 64 connected to a the feed valve and the outer tank, having a first connection port 69 at the top for communicating with the first discharge port. The first discharge port 70 is inside the first connection port 69, when viewed from the discharge direction of the liquid agent.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to washing machines. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine equipped with an automatic liquid agent dispenser.

[0003] The washing machine described in Patent Document 1 is equipped with an automatic dispenser including a tank case in which two tanks, i.e., a detergent tank and a fabric softener tank, are mounted. The automatic dispenser automatically supplies the required amounts of detergent and fabric softener from the tanks to a discharge part and dispenses them into the outer tub. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-007638 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the washing machine described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in terms of preventing clogging of the liquid agent between the tank storing the liquid agent and the outer tub.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problem and to provide a washing machine that can suppress clogging of the liquid agent between a tank that stores the liquid agent and an outer tub. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an outer tub elastically supported within a housing, a water supply valve which supplies water to the outer tub, a first tank which contains a liquid agent to be supplied to the outer tub, a first automatic liquid agent dispenser connected to the first tank and which forms a first outlet which discharges the liquid agent downward, and a liquid agent discharge flow path which forms a first connection port at an upper portion which communicates with the first outlet and is connected to the water supply valve and the outer tub, and when viewed from the direction in which the liquid agent is discharged, the first outlet is formed inside the first connection port. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine can be provided that can suppress clogging of a liquid agent between a tank that stores the liquid agent and an outer tub. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] Schematic cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] Schematic front view of a washing machine [Diagram 3] Perspective view of the automatic insertion unit [Figure 4] Perspective view of the automatic insertion unit [Diagram 5] Top view of the automatic feeding unit [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portion of an automatic insertion unit; [Figure 7] Case perspective view [Figure 8A] Exploded view of the fluid discharge path [Figure 8B] Perspective view of the lid [Figure 8C] A perspective view of a liquid ejection flow path [Figure 8D] Cross-sectional view of the liquid discharge flow path [Figure 9] Perspective cross-sectional view of the automatic insertion unit [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tank, a liquid supply device, and a liquid discharge flow path; [Figure 11] Schematic cross-sectional view of a liquid injection device [Figure 12] Enlarged view of the liquid supply device and liquid discharge flow path [Figure 13] Perspective view of the support part [Figure 14] An enlarged view of the discharge port when the liquid supply device is inserted into the liquid discharge flow path. [Figure 15] Case diagram showing the flow of water and liquids DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] (Embodiment) A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0011] [Overall configuration] Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a washing machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a schematic front view of the washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 according to the present embodiment is a washing and drying machine having an automatic liquid dispenser function. In this specification, the liquid is a liquid used for washing laundry 15 such as clothes, and includes detergent, fabric softener, neutral detergent, etc.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 includes a housing 2, an outer tub 3, an inner tub 4, a drive unit 5, an automatic dosing unit 6, a connecting flow path 8, a water supply valve 10, a drain valve 11, and a control unit (not shown).

[0013] <Case> The housing 2 is a member that forms the external appearance of the washing machine 1. An opening 20 and a door 21 that covers the opening 20 and can be opened and closed freely are provided on the front surface of the housing 2.

[0014] <Outer tank> The outer tub 3 is provided inside the housing 2 and is a roughly cylindrical member having the function of storing wash water. The outer tub 3 may be called a water tub. The outer tub 3 has a tubular portion 34 and a bottom portion 36 that closes one end of the tubular portion 34. The central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 passes through the center of the bottom portion 36. The central axis V0 is inclined with respect to the horizontal. The outer tub 3 has an opening 31 at a position facing the opening 20 of the housing 2, and is connected to the opening 20 of the housing 2 in a sealed manner by a bellows 32. The outer tub 3 is further provided with openings 33 and 35 for passing water. The opening 33 is an opening connected to the connection flow path 8, and the opening 35 is a drain port for draining the water in the outer tub 3 to the outside.

[0015] In the following description, the horizontal direction along the central axis V0 is defined as the front-rear direction M (FIG. 1), and the horizontal direction perpendicular to the plane including the central axis V0 is defined as the width direction K (FIG. 2). The front-rear direction M has a front side M1 toward the opening 31 and a rear side M2 ​​toward the bottom 36, and the width direction K has an outer side K1 away from the central axis V0 and a central side K2 toward the central axis V0.

[0016] <Inner tank> The inner tub 4 is a generally cylindrical member that is rotatably provided around a central axis V0 inside the outer tub 3 and that contains laundry 15, such as clothes. The inner tub 4 may also be referred to as a drum. The inner tub 4 is formed with a large number of through holes 40. The through holes 40 communicate the inner tub 4 with the outer tub 3, allowing the wash water to move from the inner tub 4 to the outer tub 3. The inner tub 4 further has an opening 41 at a position facing the opening 20 of the housing 2 and the opening 31 of the outer tub 3.

[0017] <Drive unit> The driving unit 5 is a member that drives the inner tub 4 to rotate around the central axis V0. The driving unit 5 has, for example, a motor that rotates the inner tub 4.

[0018] <Automatic insertion unit> The automatic dosing unit 6 is a unit that automatically dispenses a predetermined amount of liquid agent determined by the control unit from a tank that stores the liquid agent into the outer tub 3. When the liquid agent is not manually dispensed, the automatic dosing unit 6 dispenses an appropriate amount of an appropriate type of liquid agent into the outer tub 3 depending on, for example, the amount and type of laundry 15 during a washing process, a rinsing process, etc. The automatic dosing unit 6 is connected to the outer tub 3 via a connection flow path 8 in order to supply the liquid agent to the outer tub 3.

[0019] The automatic dispensing unit 6 includes a case 61, tanks 62A, 62B, 62C (tanks 62B, 62C not shown), liquid agent dispensing devices 63A, 63B, 63C (liquid agent dispensing devices 63B, 63C not shown), a liquid agent discharge flow path 64, a manual dispensing section 65, and a water supply solenoid valve 66.

[0020] 2, the automatic feeding unit 6 is provided inside the housing 2, diagonally above the outer tub 3. The automatic feeding unit 6 faces an openable and closable cover 60 provided on the upper surface of the housing 2. The automatic feeding unit 6 has a shape that follows the outer periphery of the cylindrical portion 34 of the outer tub 3.

[0021] <Connection flow path> The connection flow path 8 is a flow path for supplying the liquid agent from the automatic dispensing unit 6 to the outer bath 3. The connection flow path 8 extends downward from the automatic dispensing unit 6 to the opening 33 of the outer bath 3.

[0022] <Water supply valve> The water supply valve 10 is a valve for supplying water to the outer tub 3 via the automatic dosing unit 6. The water supply valve 10 is provided on the upper part of the housing 2.

[0023] <Drain valve> The drain valve 11 is configured to be openable and closable, and when opened, drains water stored in the outer tub 3 through an opening 35 of the outer tub 3. The drain valve 11 is provided in the lower part of the housing 2.

[0024] <Control unit> The control unit is a member that controls the operation of the washing machine 1. The control unit controls components of the washing machine 1, such as the drive unit 5, the liquid agent dispensers 63A, 63B, and 63C of the automatic dispenser unit 6, the water supply valve 10, and the drain valve 11. The control unit may include, for example, a memory (not shown) that stores a program, and a processing circuit (not shown) corresponding to a processor such as a CPU, and function as these elements by the processor executing the program.

[0025] Next, components of the automatic feeding unit 6 will be described with reference to Fig. 3 to Fig. 6. Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 are perspective views of the automatic feeding unit 6. Fig. 5 is a top view of the automatic feeding unit 6. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a part of the automatic feeding unit 6.

[0026] <Case> 3, the case 61 is a member that houses the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C that constitute the automatic feeding unit 6, and the manual feeding part 65. The bottom surface 55 of the case 61 has an inclined shape along the outer periphery of the tube part 34 that is diagrammatically shown by a dotted line.

[0027] Here, the surface of the front side M1 of the case 61 is the front surface 56 (FIG. 3), and the surface of the rear side M2 ​​of the case 61 is the rear surface 57 (FIG. 4). As shown in FIG. 4, liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B (FIG. 6), 63C (FIG. 6), liquid agent discharge flow path 64, water supply solenoid valve 66, and connection flow path 8 are connected to rear surface 57 of case 61.

[0028] 5, a supply flow passage 67 is formed in the upper part of the case 61. The supply flow passage 67 forms a plurality of independent paths along the outer periphery of the case 61. Each path supplies water from a water supply solenoid valve 66 to the inside of the case 61.

[0029] <Water supply solenoid valve> As shown in Figs. 4 and 5, it is configured with three solenoid valves, and the route of the supply flow passage 67 (Fig. 5) to which the water is supplied is changed by opening and closing each valve.

[0030] <Tank> As shown in FIG. 5, the case 61 accommodates three tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C arranged in the width direction K. The tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C are containers for storing liquid agents used in the washing process and the rinsing process. For example, the tank 62A stores a neutral detergent, the tank 62B stores a fabric softener, and the tank 62C stores a detergent. The tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C are removable from the case 61. When the manual dispenser 65 is removed from the case 61, an empty space is formed on the front side M1 of the tank 62. In this state, the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C can be pulled to the front side M1 to be removed from the liquid dispensers 63A, 63B, and 63C (FIG. 6), and then removed upward.

[0031] <Manual input section> The manual dispenser 65 is a mechanism for allowing a user to manually dispense a single dose of laundry treatment liquid. The dispensed amount of liquid flows from the case 61 through the connecting flow path 8 (FIG. 1) into the outer tub 3 (FIG. 1). The manually dispensed liquid may be in liquid or powder form. The manual dispenser 65 is removably housed in the case 61.

[0032] <Liquid injection device> 6, liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, 63C are devices that suck out a predetermined amount of liquid agent from tanks 62A, 62B, 62C and discharge the liquid agent into liquid agent discharge flow path 64. Liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, 63C are connected to tanks 62A, 62B, 62C in the front-rear direction M via rear surface 57 of case 61. Liquid agent supplying device 63A is connected to tank 62A, liquid agent supplying device 63B is connected to tank 62B, and liquid agent supplying device 63C is connected to tank 62C. Liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, 63C are arranged side by side in width direction K.

[0033] <Liquid discharge flow path> As shown in FIG. 6, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is a flow path member that supplies the liquid agent and water to the outer tank 3 (FIG. 1) through the case 61. The liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is provided on the back surface 57 of the case 61, and is connected to three liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, 63C. The liquid agent discharge flow path 64 extends along the outer periphery of the outer tank 3, inclining downward toward the outside K1. In other words, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 extends from upstream to downstream, inclining downward with respect to the horizontal plane. The fluid (e.g., water W0) flowing through the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 flows in one direction according to the inclination of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0034] Next, the structures of the case 61 and the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 of the automatic dispensing unit 6 will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 7 and Figs. 8A to 8D. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the case 61. Fig. 8A is an exploded view of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. Fig. 8B is a perspective view of the lid 93. Fig. 8C is a perspective view of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. Fig. 8D is a cross-sectional view of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0035] As shown in Fig. 7, the case 61 has inner bottom surfaces B1, B2, and B3. The inner bottom surfaces B1, B2, and B3 are arranged in order along the outer side K1. The inner bottom surface B1 is a surface located directly below the tank 62A (Fig. 6), the inner bottom surface B2 is a surface located directly below the tank 62B (Fig. 6), and the inner bottom surface B3 is a surface located directly below the tank 62C (Fig. 6).

[0036] On the rear surface 57 of the case 61, tank connection ports 77A, 77B, 77C, a first case connection port 78, a second case connection port 79, and a liquid agent outlet 81 are formed.

[0037] Tank connection ports 77A, 77B, 77C are openings provided for connecting tanks 62A, 62B, 62C housed in case 61 to liquid agent supply devices 63A, 63B, 63C arranged outside case 61.

[0038] Additionally, the first case connection port 78 is an opening that allows water flowing from the supply flow path 67 to flow into the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. The second case connection port 79 is an opening that allows water from the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 and the automatically added liquid agent to flow into the case 61. The liquid agent outlet 81 is an opening that discharges the fluid that has flowed into the case 61 from the second case connection port 79 and the fluid flowing from the manual input unit 65 toward the outer tank 3 through the connection flow path 8.

[0039] The first case connection port 78 is provided at a higher position than the second case connection port 79 , and the second case connection port 79 is provided at a higher position than the liquid agent outlet 81 .

[0040] As shown in FIG. 8A, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is formed by a main body 92 and a lid 93. The main body 92 forms a space through which the automatically dispensed liquid agent and water flow, and has an opening 100 on a side surface. The lid 93 covers the opening 100 to seal the main body 92. In other words, the main body 92 constitutes the inner bottom surface of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, and the lid 93 constitutes one side surface of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. The main body 92 forms a main flow path 95 extending in the horizontal direction, and branch flow paths 96A, 96B, and 96C branching upward from the main flow path 95. The lower parts of the liquid agent supply devices 63A, 63B, and 63C (liquid agent supply devices 63B and 63C not shown) are inserted into the branch flow paths 96A, 96B, and 96C, respectively. A discharge port 70 for discharging a predetermined amount of liquid agent is formed in the lower part of the liquid agent supply devices 63A, 63B, and 63C. The liquid agent discharged from the discharge port 70 flows into the main flow path 95 through the branch flow paths 96A, 96B, and 96C.

[0041] A plurality of lead wire hooks 97 are formed on the lower part of the lid 93. The lead wire hooks 97 are structured to hold lead wires 97A extending from electronic components of the automatic dispensing unit 6. The lead wires 97A are members that connect, for example, a power unit 71 (described later) of the liquid agent dispensing device 63 to an external power source.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 8B, the surface P1 of the lid 93 facing the main flow channel 95 is smooth.

[0043] 8C , an inlet 98 is formed upstream of main flow path 95, and an outlet 99 is formed downstream of main flow path 95. The liquid agent discharged by liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, 63C flows along main flow path 95 toward outlet 99. In addition, water flowing from inlet 98 is introduced into main flow path 95 and discharged from outlet 99.

[0044] The outlet 99 is inclined downwards, so that the liquid agent can be prevented from remaining near the outlet 99.

[0045] 8D, connection ports 69A, 69B, and 69C are formed at branch points of main flow path 95. Connection ports 69A, 69B, and 69C are openings on one end side of branch flow paths 96A, 96B, and 96C, and face discharge ports 70 of liquid drug supply devices 63A, 63B, and 63C, respectively.

[0046] When the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is connected to the case 61 (FIG. 7), the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is inclined downward. Due to the inclination of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, the water and liquid agent flowing through the main flow path 95 flow according to gravity. Furthermore, due to the inclination of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, the connection ports 69A, 69B, 69C are lowered toward the outside K1 and arranged in a stepped manner. The inlet 98 is connected to the water supply valve 10 via the case 61, and the outlet 99 is connected to the outer tank 3 via the case 61 and the connection flow path 8.

[0047] As described above, the structure for attaching the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 to the liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, and 63C and the case 61 is formed in the main body 92. Therefore, even if a misalignment occurs during welding of the main body 92 and the lid 93 described below, it is possible to prevent the position of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 from shifting relative to other components.

[0048] The main flow path 95 is inclined linearly downward. When the main flow path 95 is inclined linearly, the fluid flows more easily and it is possible to prevent the fluid from stagnating. On the other hand, the inclination angle of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 may change midway through the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. A flow path portion having a horizontal component (width direction K) may be provided midway through the liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0049] Returning to FIG. 8A, the dimension D1 of the main flow path 95 in the front-rear direction M is greater than the dimension D2 of the main flow path 95 in the up-down direction Z on the downstream side of the connection port 69A (FIG. 8D). Furthermore, the main flow path 95 has an expanded diameter portion 95A upstream of the outlet 99. The cross-sectional area of ​​the expanded diameter portion 95A increases downstream. In this embodiment, the expanded diameter portion 95A is realized by increasing the distance between the upper and lower surfaces of the main flow path 95. The expanded diameter portion 95A may also be realized by increasing the distance between the front and back surfaces of the main flow path 95.

[0050] The main body 92 and the lid 93 are adhered in the front-rear direction M.

[0051] In this embodiment, the main body 92 and the lid 93 are bonded by vibration welding. Therefore, the main body 92 has a plurality of ribs 92A, 92B. The rib 92A is a plate-like member rising from the upper surface of the main body 92 and extending in the front-rear direction M. Similarly, the rib 92B is a plate-like member rising from the lower surface of the main body 92 and extending in the front-rear direction M. By providing the ribs 92A, 92B, it is possible to suppress bending and deformation of the main body 92 along the connection direction during vibration welding, and improve the strength of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0052] The state in which the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C are attached to the case 61 will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the automatic dosing unit 6.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 9, the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C have depths L1, L2, and L3, respectively. The depths L1, L2, and L3 are the distances from the top surface to the deepest part of the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, respectively. The depths L1, L2, and L3 of the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C increase in order. The depth L2 of the tank 62B is deeper than the depth L1 of the tank 62A, and the depth L3 of the tank 62C is deeper than the depth L2 of the tank 62B. In addition, since the top surfaces of the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C have a common shape, the volumes of the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C increase in order according to the depths L1, L2, and L3.

[0054] As described above, the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C store a neutral detergent, a fabric softener, and a detergent, respectively. Taking into consideration the type of liquid and the volume of the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, the liquids may be stored in the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C in order of least frequently used liquid. Also, the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C may store the same liquid.

[0055] 9, the bottom surfaces of the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C including the deepest parts extend in the width direction K and become lower in this order. Therefore, the bottom surfaces of the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C are arranged in a stepped manner.

[0056] The area directly below the tank 62C is close to the outside of the housing 2, and it is easier to secure a vertical space compared to the tanks 62A and 62B, so a large gap can be formed. Therefore, it is easy to form an input flow path 82 that flows the liquid agent and water into the outer tank 3 along the inner bottom surface B3. With this configuration, the space above the outer tank 3 can be effectively utilized. The liquid agent that is manually input flows directly into the input flow path 82 from the manual input unit 65, and the liquid agent that is automatically input flows into the input flow path 82 via the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. The input flow path 82 flows the water and the liquid agent along the inner bottom surface B3 toward the liquid agent outlet 81 (FIG. 7).

[0057] Tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C form connection parts 76A, 76B, and 76C at their deepest parts. Connection parts 76A, 76B, and 76C are structures including openings through which the liquid agent is sucked out by liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, and 63C shown in FIG.

[0058] Next, the liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, and 63C connected to the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C will be described in more detail with reference to FIG.

[0059] Here, tank 62 is a general term for tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C. Similarly, liquid agent supplying device 63 is a general term for liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, and 63C, connection port 69 is a general term for connection ports 69A, 69B, and 69C, branch flow path 96 is a general term for branch flow paths 96A, 96B, and 96C, and connection part 76 is a general term for connection parts 76A, 76B, and 76C. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of tank 62, liquid agent supplying device 63, and liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0060] 10, liquid agent supplying device 63 is connected to tank 62 and liquid agent discharge flow path 64. Liquid agent supplying devices 63A, 63B, 63C are arranged in a stepped manner so as to descend in order in accordance with the change in the depth of connection part 76 of tank 62. Furthermore, the stepped arrangement of liquid agent supplying devices 63 corresponds to the inclination of liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0061] The structure of one liquid drug supplying device 63 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 11 to 13. Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of liquid drug supplying device 63 as viewed from the side. Figure 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the lower end of liquid drug supplying device 63. Figure 13 is a perspective view of support part 87.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 11, the liquid drug supplying device 63 includes a power unit 71, a speed reducing mechanism 72, and a pump mechanism 73.

[0063] The power unit 71 transmits rotational motion to the reduction mechanism 72. The reduction mechanism 72 reduces the speed of the rotational motion of the power unit 71 by a plurality of gears (not shown) and has a reduced-speed output shaft V2. The pump mechanism 73 is a positive displacement pump driven by the output shaft V2 of the reduction mechanism 72.

[0064] The pump mechanism 73 has a piston 83, a cylinder 84, and an outlet flow path 86. The piston 83 is a member that is connected to the output shaft V2 of the speed reducing mechanism 72 and reciprocates in the vertical direction Z as the output shaft V2 rotates. The cylinder 84 is a member that houses the piston 83 and forms a space into which the liquid agent is sucked up. The outlet flow path 86 is a flow path that connects the lower end of the cylinder 84 to the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 and extends in the vertical direction Z in order to discharge the liquid agent in the cylinder 84 to the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 (FIG. 10).

[0065] As shown in FIG. 12, the outlet flow path 86 is provided with a support portion 87, a seal 89, and a valve 91. The support portion 87 is a member that supports the valve 91, and forms the discharge port 70 of the liquid agent supplying device 63. The support portion 87 protrudes downward Z1 from the lower end of the outlet flow path 86. The seal 89 is a member that is provided on the valve 91, and prevents backflow of water into the cylinder 84 when the valve 91 is closed. The seal 89 may be an O-ring. The valve 91 is a check valve that controls the flow of the liquid agent in the outlet flow path 86. When the valve 91 moves downward and opens, the liquid agent is discharged from the discharge port 70.

[0066] 13, the support portion 87 has an outer circumferential tube portion 87A, a central tube portion 87B, and ribs 87C. The discharge port 70 is formed between the outer circumferential tube portion 87A and the central tube portion 87B. The ribs 87C extend radially from the outer circumferential surface of the central tube portion 87B toward the inner circumferential surface of the outer circumferential tube portion 87A. When viewed from the up-down direction Z, the discharge port 70 is defined into three sector shapes by the ribs 87C.

[0067] The central tube portion 87B forms a passage 94 that accommodates a valve 91 (FIG. 12), and protrudes downward Z1 relative to the outer peripheral tube portion 87A. In manufacturing the support portion 87, burrs may be generated at the tip of the central tube portion 87B. If burrs are generated at the tip of the central tube portion 87B, the burrs may hinder the movement of the valve 91 and hinder the discharge of the liquid agent. On the other hand, by allowing the central tube portion 87B to protrude, excessive hindering of the movement of the valve 91 can be suppressed even if burrs are generated at the tip of the central tube portion 87B.

[0068] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the discharge port 70 in a state where the liquid agent dosing device 63 is inserted into the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. In FIG. 14, the opening of the connection port 69 is indicated by the line BB. As shown in FIG. 14, the support part 87 is inserted into the branch flow path 96, and the discharge port 70 faces the connection port 69. In this state, when viewed from the vertical direction Z, the entire discharge port 70 is formed inside the connection port 69 (FIG. 13). The entire discharge port 70 is exposed to the water W0 flowing through the main flow path 95. Therefore, when the amount of water W0 flowing through the main flow path 95 is large and the water W0 flows near the upper surface of the main flow path 95, a part of the water W1 flows into the branch flow path 96 and hits the discharge port 70 and the central tube part 87B. The hit water W1 falls together with the liquid agent attached to the discharge port 70 and the valve 91, and merges with the main flow path 95.

[0069] Furthermore, when the positional relationship in the up-down direction is taken into consideration, the outer circumferential tube portion 87A is located above the connection port 69, and the central tube portion 87B is located below the connection port 69. When viewed from the side, the discharge port 70 is formed above the line BB. Meanwhile, the lower end of the central tube portion 87B overlaps with the line BB and protrudes into the main flow path 95. With this arrangement, it is possible to apply water W1 to the central tube portion 87B while suppressing the outer circumferential tube portion 87A from interfering with the flow of water W0.

[0070] [Operation] Next, an example of the operation of the automatic dispensing unit 6 in the above configuration will be described with reference to Figures 11, 14 and 15. Figure 15 is a perspective view of the case 61 showing the flows of the water W0 and the liquid agents S1 and S2.

[0071] The automatic dosing unit 6 operates during the washing and rinsing processes of the washing machine 1. The operation of the automatic dosing unit 6 is controlled by a control unit. The control unit controls, for example, the opening and closing of the water supply solenoid valve 66, the type of liquid agent to be dispensed, the amount to be dispensed, the timing of dispense, and the like.

[0072] As shown in Fig. 15, in the washing step and the rinsing step, water W0 is supplied to the automatic dispensing unit 6 by the water supply valve 10. The water W0 flows into the case 61 from an opening 68 formed on the center side K2 through a water supply solenoid valve 66 and a supply flow path 67. The water W0 that has flowed into the case 61 flows along gravity through an inclined liquid agent discharge flow path 64 (not shown) from a first case connection port 78, and flows into an input flow path 82 of the case 61 from a second case connection port 79. The water W0 that has flowed into the case 61 is guided by the input flow path 82 to a liquid agent outlet 81, and flows into the outer tub 3 (not shown) via a connection flow path 8 (not shown).

[0073] In the washing step, the control unit operates to drive a liquid agent supplying device 63C (FIG. 10) connected to a tank 62C (FIG. 10) in which a detergent is stored. The detergent S1 in the tank 62C is discharged from the discharge port 70 to the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 by the liquid agent supplying device 63C.

[0074] 15, the detergent S1 flows along the inclined liquid agent discharge flow path 64 according to gravity, and flows from the second case connection port 79 into the input flow path 82 of the case 61. The detergent S1 that flows into the case 61 is guided to the liquid agent outlet 81 by the inclination of the input flow path 82, and flows into the outer tub 3 via the connection flow path 8. The detergent S1 may merge with the water W0 in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0075] On the other hand, when the laundry 15 contained in the outer tub 3 is intended for delicate washing, the liquid agent dispenser 63A of the tank 62A containing a neutral detergent is driven instead of the liquid agent dispenser 63C of the tank 62C containing the detergent S1.

[0076] By the operation of the control unit in the rinsing step, the liquid agent dosing device 63B of the tank 62B in which the fabric softener S2 is stored is driven.

[0077] 14 , in the washing step and the rinsing step, when the liquid agent is discharged from the discharge port 70, the liquid agent flows downstream together with the water W0 through the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. Since the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is inclined, it is possible to prevent the liquid agent from accumulating and solidifying in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 and clogging the liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0078] Also, a part of the liquid does not fall into the liquid discharge flow path 64, but remains attached to the periphery of the discharge port 70. Therefore, when a large amount of water W0 flows into the liquid discharge flow path 64, a part of the water W1 hits the periphery of the discharge port 70 and the central tube portion 87B through the connection port 69. This makes it possible to prevent the liquid from staying for a long time, adhering and accumulating, and blocking the discharge port 70. Also, it is possible to prevent the liquid from adhering to the periphery of the central tube portion 87B and obstructing the movement of the valve 91 housed in the passage 94.

[0079] The above description is summarized to describe the features of the present disclosure.

[0080] In the washing machine 1 according to this embodiment, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is inclined downward from the upstream to the downstream. The inclination of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 promotes the flow of the liquid agent that is automatically dispensed, and prevents the liquid agent from staying in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 for a long period of time and solidifying. Therefore, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 can be maintained in a connected state. Furthermore, the inclination of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 also promotes the flow of water. The flow of water can carry the highly viscous liquid agent downstream, further promoting the flow of the liquid agent.

[0081] In addition, in the conventional configuration, the gap between the inner bottom surface of the liquid agent discharge flow path and the discharge port of the liquid agent dosing device suppresses exposure of the discharge port to the flow of water in the liquid agent discharge flow path. In contrast to this structure, in the configuration of the washing machine 1, the discharge port 70 is formed inside the connection port 69, and the entire discharge port 70 is exposed to the water flowing in the main flow path 95. Therefore, if the flow rate of the water W0 flowing in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is high, it is easy to spray water on the discharge port 70 and its surroundings. By spraying water, the liquid agent attached to the discharge port 70 and its surroundings can be washed away, and the liquid agent can be prevented from solidifying.

[0082] As described above, it is possible to provide a washing machine 1 capable of suppressing clogging of the liquid agent between the tank 62 storing the liquid agent and the outer tub 3.

[0083] [Effect 1] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment can provide the following effects.

[0084] As described above, the washing machine 1 of this embodiment includes the outer tub 3, the tank 62A (first tank), the tank 62B (second tank), the liquid agent dosing device 63A (first automatic liquid agent dosing device), the liquid agent dosing device 63B (second automatic liquid agent dosing device), and the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. The outer tub 3 is elastically supported in the housing 2. The tank 62A contains the liquid agent to be supplied to the outer tub 3. The tank 62B contains the liquid agent to be supplied to the outer tub 3. The liquid agent dosing device 63A is connected to the tank 62A and discharges the liquid agent from the discharge port 70 (first discharge port). The liquid agent dosing device 63B is connected to the tank 62B and discharges the liquid agent from the discharge port 70 (second discharge port). The liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is connected to the discharge ports 70 of the liquid agent dosing devices 63A and 63B and flows the liquid agent toward the outer tub 3. The liquid material discharge flow path 64 extends along the outer periphery of the outer tank 3 at a downward incline.

[0085] With such a configuration, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 inclined along the outer tank 3 can promote the flow of the liquid agent while realizing space saving. Therefore, in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, the liquid agent is prevented from remaining and sticking, and clogging of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 can be suppressed.

[0086] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the tank 62B is disposed on the outer side K1 (along the first direction away from the central axis V0 passing through the bottom 36 of the outer tub 3) with respect to the tank 62A. The liquid agent discharge flow path 64 extends downward along the outer side K1.

[0087] With this configuration, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 inclined along the arrangement of the outer bath 3 and the tank 62 can further reduce space.

[0088] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the depth L2 of the tank 62B is greater than the depth L1 of the tank 62A.

[0089] With this configuration, the depth of the tank 62 is increased in accordance with the inclination of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, and while ensuring the volume of the tank 62, the flow of water and the liquid agent can be further promoted in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. In addition, an arrangement that suppresses variation in the distance over which the liquid agent flows between the tank 62 and the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is possible. Therefore, it is possible to suppress variation in the resistance to the liquid agent due to variation in the distance over which the liquid agent flows, and to achieve uniform input of the liquid agent.

[0090] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the discharge port 70 of the liquid agent dosing device 63B is formed at a lower position than the discharge port 70 of the liquid agent dosing device 63A.

[0091] With this configuration, it is possible to tilt the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 along the arrangement of the liquid agent supply device 63, thereby suppressing the variation in the distance the liquid agent flows between the liquid agent supply device 63 and the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the variation in the resistance to the liquid agent and to realize the uniformity of the amount of the liquid agent supplied.

[0092] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the liquid agent supplying device 63A and the liquid agent supplying device 63B are disposed above the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, and the discharge port 70 is connected to the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 from above.

[0093] With this configuration, by disposing the liquid agent supplying device 63 above the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 , it is possible to prevent the water or liquid agent flowing through the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 from flowing back into the liquid agent supplying device 63 .

[0094] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the inlet 98 of the liquid agent discharge flow passage 64 is formed at a position higher than the outlet 99 of the liquid agent discharge flow passage 64 .

[0095] With this configuration, the liquid ejection flow path 64 extends downward from the inlet 98 to the outlet 99, and flows from the inlet 98 to the outlet 99 due to gravity, thereby preventing the liquid from stagnating between the inlet 98 and the outlet 99.

[0096] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the liquid agent supplying device 63A is connected to the rear surface of the tank 62A, and the liquid agent supplying device 63B is connected to the rear surface of the tank 62B.

[0097] With this configuration, the dimension of the automatic dispensing unit 6 in the vertical direction Z can be made smaller than when the liquid drug dispensing device 63 is connected to the bottom surface of the tank 62. Therefore, the volume of the tank 62 can be made large even in a limited space.

[0098] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 increases along the outer side K1 (toward the downstream side).

[0099] With this configuration, even if the flow rate of the liquid increases downstream of the liquid discharge flow path 64, it is possible to suppress the liquid from remaining and sticking, and to suppress clogging of the liquid discharge flow path 64.

[0100] [Effect 2] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment includes an outer tub 3, a water supply valve 10, a tank 62 (first tank), a liquid agent dispenser 63 (first automatic liquid agent dispenser), and a liquid agent discharge flow path 64. The outer tub 3 is elastically supported within the housing 2. The water supply valve 10 supplies water to the outer tub 3. The tank 62 contains the liquid agent to be supplied to the outer tub 3. The liquid agent dispenser 63 is connected to the tank 62 and forms a discharge port 70 (first discharge port) that discharges the liquid agent downward. The liquid agent discharge flow path 64 forms a connection port 69 (first connection port) in an upper portion thereof that communicates with the discharge port 70, and is connected to the water supply valve 10 and the outer tub 3. When viewed from the vertical direction Z (liquid agent discharge direction), the discharge port 70 is formed inside the connection port 69.

[0101] With this configuration, in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, water can be made to flow around the discharge port 70, and the liquid agent adhering to the periphery of the discharge port 70 can be washed away. Therefore, the liquid agent can be prevented from remaining and adhering around the discharge port 70, and clogging on the downstream side of the liquid agent input device 63 can be prevented.

[0102] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 extends downward to the outside K1 (along the first direction away from the central axis V0 passing through the bottom 36 of the outer tub 3).

[0103] With this configuration, the discharge port 70 can be cleaned using the liquid discharge flow path 64 in which the flow of the liquid is promoted by gravity.

[0104] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the liquid agent dosing device 63 further includes a support part 87 (first member) that forms the discharge port 70. The support part 87 includes an outer circumferential cylinder part 87A and a central cylinder part 87B that is disposed inside the outer circumferential cylinder part 87A and houses a valve 91 that is movable in the up-down direction Z. The discharge port 70 is defined between the outer circumferential cylinder part 87A and the central cylinder part 87B.

[0105] With this configuration, the central cylinder portion 87B can also be cleaned, so that the opening and closing movement of the valve 91 can be prevented from being hindered by the adhesion of the liquid agent.

[0106] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the central cylinder portion 87B protrudes from the outer circumferential cylinder portion 87A.

[0107] With such a configuration, the central tube portion 87B can be easily cleaned, and the obstruction of the opening and closing movement of the valve due to the adhesion of the liquid agent can be further suppressed.

[0108] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, when viewed from the front-rear direction M (direction perpendicular to the discharge direction), the central tube portion 87B crosses the connection port 69, and the discharge port 70 is formed above the connection port 69.

[0109] With this configuration, the central tube portion 87B can be cleaned even more easily. Meanwhile, since the outer peripheral tube portion 87A does not cross the connection port 69, it is possible to prevent the fluid from being blocked in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. In addition, it is possible to prevent the fluid from flowing back from the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 through the discharge port 70 to the liquid agent feeding device 63.

[0110] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment further includes a tank 62B (second tank) and a liquid agent dispenser 63B (second automatic liquid agent dispenser). The tank 62B accommodates the liquid agent to be supplied to the outer tub 3, and is disposed on the outer side K1 of the tank 62A. The liquid agent dispenser 63B is connected to the tank 62B and the liquid agent discharge passage 64, and discharges the liquid agent downward from the discharge port 70.

[0111] With this configuration, even when a plurality of liquid agent supplying devices 63 are provided, clogging downstream of the liquid agent supplying devices 63 can be suppressed.

[0112] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment comprises an outer tub 3 elastically supported within a housing 2, a water supply valve 10 that supplies water to the outer tub 3, a tank 62A (first tank) that contains a liquid agent to be supplied to the outer tub 3, a liquid agent dosing device 63A (first automatic liquid agent dosing device) that is connected to the tank 62A and forms an outlet 70 (first outlet) that discharges the liquid agent downward, and a liquid agent discharge flow path 64 that forms a connection port 69A (first connection port) at the top that communicates with the outlet 70 and is connected to the water supply valve 10 and the outer tub 3, and in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, a dimension D1 in the front-to-rear direction M (width direction) is greater than a dimension D2 in the up-down direction Z.

[0113] With this configuration, the outlet port 70 can be easily washed with water.

[0114] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 forms a main flow path 95 (space) through which the automatically added liquid agent and water flow, and is provided with a main body 92 having an opening 100 on the side, and a lid 93 attached to the main body 92 so as to cover the opening 100.

[0115] With this configuration, the liquid material discharge flow path 64 can be manufactured by injection molding. Therefore, the cost of the liquid material discharge flow path 64 can be suppressed, and the liquid material discharge flow path 64 can be manufactured using a material having high chemical resistance and moisture absorption resistance.

[0116] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the main body 92 is provided with an inlet 98 (connection port) connected to the water supply valve 10, a connection port 69A, and an outlet 99 (connection port) connected to the outer tub 3.

[0117] With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the position of the components from being displaced due to adhesion misalignment.

[0118] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the inner bottom surface of the liquid agent discharge passage 64 is formed by the main body 92.

[0119] With this configuration, residual liquid and water can be suppressed.

[0120] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the main body 92 is vibration welded to the lid 93.

[0121] With this configuration, the main body 92 can be made smaller than when an additional structure for fixing the lid 93 to the main body 92 is provided.

[0122] In the washing machine 1 of the present embodiment, the surface P1 (rear surface) of the lid 93 is formed to be smooth.

[0123] This configuration improves the stability of vibration welding and also reduces the amount of residual liquid.

[0124] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the lid 93 has a lead wire hook 97 that holds the lead wire 97A.

[0125] With this configuration, the lead wire hook 97 can fix the lead wire 97A in a state where the lead wire 97A extends downward. By arranging the connector above the lead wire hook 97, water flowing along the lead wire 97A can be prevented from reaching the connector of the power unit 71.

[0126] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but can be embodied in various other forms.

[0127] In the embodiment, the liquid material discharge flow path 64 is inclined, but the present invention is not limited to this. The liquid material discharge flow path 64 may be disposed in a horizontal direction.

[0128] In the embodiment, the tank 62 is arranged along the width direction K, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when the outer tank 3 is elastically supported so as to be inclined downward toward the rear side M2 ​​with respect to the installation surface of the housing 2, the tank 62 may be arranged along the front-rear direction M. In other words, the tank 62B may be arranged along the central axis V0 passing through the bottom 36 of the outer tank 3 with respect to the tank 62A. In this case, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is inclined downward toward the rear side M2. Even with such a configuration, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 inclined along the arrangement of the outer tank 3 and the tank 62 can further enhance space saving.

[0129] Although an example in which the discharge port 70 is formed above the connection port 69 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The discharge port 70 may be disposed at a lower height than the connection port 69. In other words, the outer peripheral tube portion 87A forming the discharge port 70 may protrude into the main flow path 95. With this configuration, it becomes easier for water to hit the discharge port 70 in the liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0130] In the embodiment, an example in which the main body 92 and the lid 93 are bonded by vibration welding has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The main body 92 and the lid 93 may be bonded by other methods as long as the position where the main body 92 and the lid 93 are bonded to each other does not cross the flow line of the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. For example, the main body 92 and the lid 93 may be bonded to each other, or may be sealed by sandwiching a packing or the like therebetween.

[0131] In the embodiment, the connection direction between the tank 62 and the liquid drug supplying device 63 is described as the front-rear direction M, but is not limited thereto. For example, the connection direction between the tank 62 and the liquid drug supplying device 63 may be along the up-down direction Z.

[0132] The power unit 71 and the reduction gear mechanism 72 may be attached from the center side K2 or from the outside K1 to the pump mechanism 73. Also, the power unit 71 and the reduction gear mechanism 72 attached from the outside K1 and the power unit 71 and the reduction gear mechanism 72 attached from the center side K2 may be mixed.

[0133] Although the present disclosure has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications should be understood to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims, unless they depart therefrom. [Industrial Applicability]

[0134] The washing machine of the present disclosure can improve the functionality of the configuration related to liquid injection, and is therefore useful as a home washing machine, a commercial washing machine, or any type of washer-dryer (e.g., a home drum washing machine). [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 1. Washing machine 2. Chassis 3 Outer tank 4 Inner tank 5 Drive unit 6 Automatic insertion unit 8 Connection Channel 10. Water supply valve 11 Drain valve 61 cases 62 Tank 63 Liquid injection device 64 Liquid discharge flow path 65 Manual input section 66 Water supply solenoid valve K Width direction M Anteroposterior direction

Claims

1. An outer tank elastically supported within a housing; a water supply valve for supplying water to the outer tank; A first tank that contains a liquid agent to be supplied to the outer tank; a first automatic liquid agent supplying device connected to the first tank and configured to discharge a liquid agent; a liquid agent discharge flow path that forms a first connection port that communicates with the first automatic liquid agent supply device and is connected to the water supply valve and the outer tank; Equipped with the first automatic liquid drug dispenser has a valve structure that opens and closes, and a first discharge port through which the liquid drug passes when the valve structure is opened; When viewed from a discharge direction of the liquid agent, the valve structure is provided inside the first connection port, When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction, at least a part of an end of the valve structure protrudes toward the liquid agent discharge flow path beyond an opening of the first connection port.

2. A washing machine as described in claim 1, wherein the valve structure has a central tube portion and a valve housed inside the central tube portion and movable in the axial direction of the central tube portion.

3. A washing machine as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the end of the valve structure is located below the opening of the first connection port.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the liquid agent discharge flow path extends at an incline downward along a first direction away from a central axis passing through a bottom of the outer tub.

5. The valve structure further has an outer circumferential tubular portion with the central tubular portion disposed inside, The washing machine according to claim 2 , wherein the first outlet is defined between the outer circumferential cylinder portion and the central cylinder portion.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5 , wherein the central tube portion protrudes from the outer circumferential tube portion toward the liquid agent discharge flow path.

7. 7. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction, the central tube portion protrudes toward the liquid agent discharge flow path beyond the opening of the first connection port, and the outer circumferential tube portion does not protrude toward the liquid agent discharge flow path beyond the opening of the first connection port.

8. A second tank that contains a liquid agent to be supplied to the outer tank and is disposed along a first direction away from a central axis passing through a bottom of the outer tank relative to the first tank; The washing machine according to claim 1 , further comprising a second automatic liquid agent dispenser connected to the second tank and the liquid agent discharge flow path and configured to discharge the liquid agent downward from a second discharge port.

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