Washing machine

Abstract

To improve a washing effect, while suppressing deterioration in productivity by making a structure simple.SOLUTION: A washing machine includes: an outer box; a water tub; a water passage; a water supply valve connected to an external water source; a pressure dissolution tank provided on the downstream of the water supply valve, and dissolving air components by a water pressure of water supplied from the external water source through the water supply valve; a fine bubble generator provided on the downstream side of the pressure dissolution tank, and generating fine bubble water containing fine bubbles; and a pressure releasing mechanism connected to the water passage, and releasing the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank into the water passage, in the case where the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined pressure.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a washing machine.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, attention has been focused on a technique for improving the cleaning effect by generating fine bubble water containing fine bubbles such as microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles called fine bubbles using a pressure dissolution tank that pressurizes and dissolves air components in a liquid. In this case, the pressurized dissolution of the air component into the liquid is performed by applying the tap water pressure into the pressure dissolution tank. Such a pressure dissolution tank depends on the tap water pressure, and requires a strength that can withstand a high tap water pressure. Therefore, in the conventional configuration, there have been problems in the complication of the structure for increasing the strength of the pressure dissolution tank body and the connection strength between the members constituting the pressure dissolution tank and the influence on productivity.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Therefore, there is provided a washing machine that can improve the cleaning effect while simplifying the structure and suppressing a decrease in productivity.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The washing machine according to the embodiment includes an outer box, a water tank provided inside the outer box, a water passage through which water flows and is connected to the water tank, a water supply valve connected to an external water source, a pressure dissolution tank provided downstream of the water supply valve, in which air components are dissolved in the water supplied from the external water source through the water supply valve by the water pressure of the water, a fine bubble generator provided on the downstream side of the pressure dissolution tank for generating fine bubble water containing fine bubbles, and a pressure release mechanism connected to the water passage for releasing the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank into the water passage when the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0007] Hereinafter, a plurality of embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In each embodiment, substantially the same configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0008] (First Embodiment) The washing machine 10 shown in FIG. 1 is an inclined-axis type drum washing machine in which the rotation axis of the rotary tub 13 slopes downward toward the rear. Note that the washing machine 10 is not limited to the drum type, and may be a so-called vertical washing machine in which the rotation axis of the rotary tub faces the vertical direction. Further, the washing machine 10 may or may not be provided with a drying function such as a heater type or a heat pump type.

[0009] Also, the washing machine 10 may or may not be configured to include a treatment agent automatic feeder that can automatically feed washing treatment agents such as detergents and finishing agents. The treatment agent automatic feeding device has a treatment agent tank capable of storing an amount of washing treatment agent used for a plurality of washing operations, and can automatically feed a predetermined amount of washing treatment agent from the treatment agent tank into the water tank for each washing operation. In this specification, the washing machine 10 will be described as not being provided with a treatment agent automatic feeder.

[0010] The washing machine 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes an outer case 11, a water tank 12, a rotary tub 13, a motor 14, a drainage mechanism 15, a circulation path 16, a circulation pump 17, and a water supply device 20. In FIG. 1, the installation surface side of the washing machine 10, that is, the vertically lower side, is defined as the lower side of the washing machine 10, and the side opposite to the installation surface, that is, the vertically upper side, is defined as the upper side of the washing machine 10.

[0011] The outer box 11 is formed into a substantially rectangular hollow box shape as a whole by a combination of, for example, metal such as a steel plate or a resin material. The outer box 11 constitutes the outer shell of the washing machine 10. The water tank 12 and the rotating tub 13 are formed, for example, in an inclined shape with respect to the horizontal and in a bottomed cylindrical shape with an open front side and a closed back side. The water tank 12 is disposed inside the outer box 11 and is elastically supported by a suspension (not shown). The water tank 12 has a water inlet 121 and a drain outlet 122. The water inlet 121 and the drain outlet 122 communicate the outside and the inside of the water tank 12. The water inlet 121 is provided, for example, at a portion near the upper part of the water tank 12. The drain outlet 122 is provided, for example, near the bottom of the water tank 12.

[0012] The rotating tub 13 is rotatably disposed inside the water tank 12. The rotating tub 13 is rotationally driven by a motor 14. The motor 14 is provided outside the bottom of the water tank 12. Although not shown in detail, the motor 14 is, for example, a brushless direct drive motor capable of changing the rotation speed. The motor 14 is connected to the rotating tub 13 and has a function of rotationally driving the rotating tub 13 relative to the water tank 12.

[0013] The drainage mechanism 15 has a function of discharging the water stored inside the water tank 12 to the outside of the washing machine 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the drainage mechanism 15 has a drain valve 151 and a drainage path 152. The drain valve 151 is, for example, a liquid on-off valve capable of electromagnetic opening and closing operation. The drainage path 152 is constituted by, for example, a flexible drain hose. One end thereof is connected to the drain valve 151, and the other end is drawn out to the outside of the washing machine 10. The drainage path 152 is a path for draining the water stored inside the water tank 12 to the outside. When the drain valve 151 is opened, the water stored inside the water tank 12 is discharged to the outside of the washing machine 10 through the drainage path 152.

[0014] The circulation path 16 is a path for pumping up the water stored in the water tank 12 and supplying the pumped-up water back into the water tank 12 from the upper part of the water tank 12. One end of the circulation path 16 is connected to the drain port 122 of the water tank 12, and the other end is connected to the discharge port 161 provided at the upper part of the water tank 12. Although not shown in detail, the discharge port 161 is configured such that the water discharged from the discharge port 161 heads toward the center side of the water tank 12.

[0015] The circulation pump 17 is provided on the circulation path 16. When the circulation pump 17 is driven with the drain path 152 closed by the drain valve 151, the circulation pump 17 pumps up the water in the water tank 12 through the drain port 122 and injects the water back into the water tank 12 from the discharge port 161. Thereby, the circulation pump 17 circulates the water stored in the water tank 12 through the circulation path 16.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, the water supply device 20 is provided above the water tank 12 inside the outer box 11. The water supply device 20 has a function of supplying water from an external water source such as a water supply into the water tank 12. The water supply device 20 can be configured to include, for example, a water injection case 21, a water injection hose 22, a treatment agent case 23, and a water supply valve mechanism 24.

[0017] The water injection case 21 is made of, for example, resin and can be configured to have a space inside. The water injection case 21 can be formed in a hollow box shape extending along the front-rear direction of the washing machine 10. The water injection case 21 has a function of receiving water supplied from an external water source and supplying the water into the water tank 12 via the water injection hose 22.

[0018] The water injection hose 22 is, for example, a flexible hose and is configured in a cylindrical shape. One end of the water injection hose 22 is connected to the water injection case 21, and the other end is connected to the water injection port 121. That is, the water injection hose 22 is a part connecting the water injection case 21 and the water tank 12. The water that has flowed into the water injection case 21 from an external water source is injected into the water tank 12 through the water injection hose 22.

[0019] The treatment agent case 23 is composed of, for example, a resin container and is configured to be able to accommodate an amount of laundry treatment agent used for one washing operation therein. The treatment agent case 23 is detachably accommodated in, for example, the water injection case 21. The treatment agent case 23 is provided at a position away from the bottom of the water injection case 21 upward. The treatment agent case 23 can be configured to receive water supplied from an external water source.

[0020] Although not shown in detail, an opening connecting to the bottom side of the water injection case 21 is formed at the bottom of the treatment agent case 23. In this case, when water flows into the treatment agent case 23 with the laundry treatment agent stored in the treatment agent case 23, the laundry treatment agent stored in the treatment agent case 23 is poured down from the opening to the bottom side of the water injection case 21. Then, the mixed water of the laundry treatment agent and water flows along the bottom of the water injection case 21 and is supplied into the water tank 12 through the water injection hose 22.

[0021] Alternatively, the treatment agent case 23 may be configured to guide the laundry treatment agent from the opening to the bottom side of the water injection case 21 without storing the laundry treatment agent in the treatment agent case 23. In this case, the user puts the laundry treatment agent into the bottom of the water injection case 21 through the opening with the treatment agent case 23 accommodated in the water injection case 21. Then, the water supplied into the water injection case 21 from an external water source is mixed with the laundry treatment agent at the bottom of the water injection case 21, and then the mixed water is supplied into the water tank 12.

[0022] As shown in Fig. 1, the water supply valve mechanism 24 is connected to an external water source such as a faucet (not shown) of a water supply system. The water supply valve mechanism 24 is constituted by, for example, an on-off valve for liquid that can be opened and closed electromagnetically, and is driven and controlled by a control device (not shown). The water supply valve mechanism 24 is provided on the upstream side of the water injection case 21. The water supply valve mechanism 24 may be integrally formed with the water injection case 21 or may be formed separately. The water supply valve mechanism 24 has a function of individually opening and closing a plurality of water supply paths leading into the water tank 12 via the water supply device 20. In this case, as shown in Fig. 2, the water supply valve mechanism 24 can be configured, for example, to integrally include a plurality of water supply valves 241 and 242. In the following description, among the two water supply valves 241 and 242, the water supply valve 241 may be referred to as the normal water supply valve 241, and the water supply valve 242 may be referred to as the fine bubble water supply valve 242.

[0023] As shown in Fig. 2, the washing machine 10 is provided with, for example, a normal water supply path R1 and a fine bubble water supply path R2 as water supply paths. Each of the water supply paths R1 and R2 flows into the water injection case 21 through different paths from the water supply valve mechanism 24, and is a path leading to the water tank 12 through the water injection case 21. That is, each of the water supply paths R1 and R2 is indirectly connected to the water tank 12 via the water injection case 21. The water supply paths R1 and R2 are connected to the water tank 12 together with the drainage path 152 and the circulation path 16, constituting a waterway through which water flows.

[0024] The normal water supply path R1 is a path leading from the normal water supply valve 241 through the treatment agent case 23 in the water injection case 21 to the water tank 12. That is, the normal water supply valve 241 is provided in the middle of a water supply path that supplies water from an external water source through the treatment agent case 23 in the water injection case 21 to the water tank 12. The normal water supply path R1 has a function of supplying the washing treatment agent put into the treatment agent case 23 into the water tank 12.

[0025] The micro-bubble water supply path R2 is a path that leads from the micro-bubble water supply valve 242, through the water injection case 21, through the pressurized dissolution device 30 and the micro-bubble generator 40, and reaches the water tank 12. That is, the micro-bubble water supply valve 242 is provided in the middle of the water supply path that supplies water from an external water source to the water tank 12 through the pressurized dissolution device 30 and the micro-bubble generator 40. In the present embodiment, the micro-bubble water supply path R2 passes through the inside of the water injection case 21 through the pressurized dissolution device 30 and the micro-bubble generator 40 and reaches the water tank 12. The micro-bubble water supply path R2 has a function of supplying micro-bubble water containing micro-bubbles to the water in the water tank 12 to the water tank 12.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 2, the micro-bubble water supply path R2 can be configured as a path that reaches the water tank 12 without passing through the treatment agent case 23 in the water injection case 21, for example. In this case, for example, when the normal water supply valve 241 and the micro-bubble water supply valve 242 are opened with the washing treatment agent stored in the treatment agent case 23, the water supplied from the normal water supply valve 241 to the treatment agent case 23 and mixed with the washing treatment agent in the treatment agent case 23, and the micro-bubble water generated by passing through the pressurized dissolution device 30 and the micro-bubble generator 40 from the micro-bubble water supply valve 242, merge in the water injection case 21 and are then supplied into the water tank 12.

[0027] Note that the micro-bubble water supply path R2 can be configured to include the treatment agent case 23. That is, the micro-bubble water supply path R2 can be configured as a path that reaches the water tank 12 through the treatment agent case 23 on the downstream side of the micro-bubble generator 40. In this case, the normal water supply path R1 and the micro-bubble water supply path R2 have a configuration that shares the treatment agent case 23. Also, the normal water supply path R1 may be configured to include a micro-bubble generator 40 on the path.

[0028] The pressurized dissolution device 30 is provided on the micro-bubble water supply path R2, downstream of the water supply valve 242. The pressurized dissolution device 30 has a function of pressurizing water supplied from an external water source with the pressure of the water and dissolving an air component therein. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the pressurized dissolution device 30 can be configured to include a pressurized dissolution tank 31, an inlet portion 32, an outlet portion 33, a water guiding portion 34, a partition wall 35, an air introduction portion 36, and an intake valve 37. The pressurized dissolution tank 31 has a space formed therein and can temporarily store the water supplied through the water supply valve 242 together with air. The pressurized dissolution tank 31 is made of, for example, synthetic resin or metal. As shown in FIG. 1, the pressurized dissolution tank 31 is arranged to face the water injection case 21, for example.

[0029] In this case, the pressurized dissolution tank 31 is configured such that a plurality of members, in this case two tank members 311 and 312, are combined so that a space S is formed inside the pressurized dissolution tank 31. In the following description, the tank member 311 may be referred to as the first tank member 311, and the tank member 312 may be referred to as the second tank member 312. The outer peripheral surface of the first tank member 311 faces the outer peripheral surface of the water injection case 21.

[0030] In this case, the portion where the first tank member 311 and the second tank member 312 are butted against each other, that is, the joint portion, is connected by, for example, a screw member. That is, the first tank member 311 and the second tank member 312 are integrated by screwing the tank members 311 and 312 together with screws.

[0031] The inlet portion 32 and the outlet portion 33 are configured, for example, in a cylindrical shape. As shown in FIG. 3, the inlet portion 32 and the outlet portion 33 are provided in a concentrated manner on the side of the first tank member 311 among the plurality of tank members 311 and 312. And one or both of the inlet portion 32 or the outlet portion 33 can be directly connected to the water injection case 21. Direct connection means that they are connected to each other without other members intervening between the members to be connected. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the outlet portion 33 is directly connected to the water injection case 21. The outlet portion 33 communicates the pressurized dissolution tank 31 and the water injection case 21.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, the inlet portion 32 is provided at the upper part of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 and is a portion through which water flowing from the outside to the inside of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 passes. The water supplied into the water injection case 21 from an external water source through the water supply valve 242 is introduced into the pressurized dissolution tank 31 through the inlet portion 32. As shown in FIG. 1, the outlet portion 33 is provided at the lower part of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 and is a portion through which water flowing out from the inside to the outside of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 passes. In the present embodiment, the drainage from the outlet portion 33 is performed only by the water pressure, that is, the hydrostatic pressure of the water stored in the pressurized dissolution tank 31, and no driving source such as a dedicated pump for drainage is required.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 3, the water guide portion 34 is connected from the inlet portion 32 and is formed to extend along the longitudinal direction of the pressurized dissolution tank 31. The water guide portion 34 is for guiding the water flowing through the inlet portion 32 to a predetermined position inside the pressurized dissolution tank 31. As shown in FIG. 3, the water guide portion 34 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape, and one end, that is, the base end portion, is attached to the inner wall of the first tank 311, and the other end, that is, the open tip portion, is provided to face the inner wall of the second tank 312 in a proximate manner. Note that the tip portion of the water guide portion 34 is not limited to the open configuration and may be closed.

[0034] The water guiding part 34 has an opening 341. The opening 341 is formed, for example, by penetrating the bottom of the water guiding part 34 in the thickness direction. The opening 341 is for allowing the water passing through the water guiding part 34 to fall vertically downward. The water flowing out and falling from the opening 341 collides violently with the water surface while drawing in the air above the water surface stored inside the pressure dissolution tank 31. Thereby, the water stored in the pressure dissolution tank 31 is agitated by the energy at the time of the collision of the water falling from the opening 341, and the dissolution of the air component inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 is promoted.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the partition wall 35 is provided so as to rise from the bottom surface of the pressure dissolution tank 31 and horizontally partitions a part of the space S inside the pressure dissolution tank 31. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, the water guiding part 34 extends to a position beyond the partition wall 35 with respect to the inlet part 32, and discharges the water passing through the water guiding part 34 at a position beyond the partition wall 35 with respect to the inlet part 32. That is, the opening 341 is arranged at a position beyond the partition wall 35 with respect to the inlet part 32 in the space on the side of the second tank member 312, that is, in the extending direction of the water guiding part 34.

[0036] As shown by the black arrow in FIG. 3, the water injected from the opening 341 is agitated at the water surface in the space between the partition wall 35 and the inner wall of the second tank member 312, so that the water and air in the pressure dissolution tank 31 can be efficiently brought into contact. Therefore, the dissolution of the air component in the water in the pressure dissolution tank 31 can be promoted. Further, in a plan view, by arranging the position of the opening 341 as far as possible from the outlet part 33, the contact time between the water and the air in the pressure dissolution tank 31 can be lengthened, so that more air components can be dissolved in the water.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 4, a gap 351 is formed in the partition wall 35. The gap 351 has a function of shielding bubbles with a particle size larger than that of microbubbles. Of the water flowing out into the pressure dissolution tank 31, the water located below the upper end of the partition wall 35 passes through the gap 351 and flows into the region on the outlet part 33 side. At this time, relatively large bubbles, for example, on the order of millimeters generated by the water falling from the opening 341 of the water guiding part 34 and colliding with the water surface disappear without flowing out into the region on the outlet part 33 side without passing through the gap 351.

[0038] The air introduction part 36 communicates the inside and the outside of the pressure dissolution tank 31 and is for introducing outside air into the pressure dissolution tank 31. The air introduction part 36 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape, with one end connected to the pressure dissolution tank 31 and the other end connected to the water injection case 21. The air introduction part 36 is provided slightly above the first tank member 311. In this case, the air introduction part 36 is arranged above the outlet part 33 and below the opening 341 of the water guiding part 34.

[0039] The intake valve 37 can be configured, for example, as a check valve. As shown in Fig. 3, the intake valve 37 is attached to the air introduction part 36. In this case, the intake valve 37 has a function of allowing air to pass from the outside of the pressure dissolution tank 31 into the pressure dissolution tank 31, but blocking air from passing from the inside of the pressure dissolution tank 31 to the outside of the pressure dissolution tank 31. And the intake valve 37 can be configured to close when the pressure in the pressure dissolution tank 31 becomes atmospheric pressure or a pressure slightly higher than atmospheric pressure, and to open when the pressure in the pressure dissolution tank 31 becomes a value close to atmospheric pressure. When the intake valve 37 is opened, outside air is replenished into the pressure dissolution tank 31 through the air introduction part 36.

[0040] The pressurized dissolution device 30 can pressurize the inside of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 only with the water supply pressure, for example, by making the amount of water flowing into the pressurized dissolution tank 31 larger than the amount of water flowing out from the pressurized dissolution tank 31. In this case, for example, when the microbubble water supply valve 242 is opened, the remaining water that has not flowed out from the outlet 33 among the water flowing in from the inlet 32 is stored in the pressurized dissolution tank 31, and the water level in the pressurized dissolution tank 31 rises. At this time, the air in the pressurized dissolution tank 31 is compressed by the rising water surface, whereby the pressure in the pressurized dissolution tank 31 rises and the intake valve 37 closes.

[0041] After that, the inflow of water from the inlet 32 continues, and the water level in the pressurized dissolution tank 31 rises to a predetermined level, and the inside of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 rises to the maximum pressure (in this case, a pressure close to the water supply pressure). As a result, the air in the pressurized dissolution tank 31 is easily dissolved in the water stored in the pressurized dissolution tank 31. That is, by passing the water supplied from an external water source through the pressurized dissolution device 30, it is possible to supply water in which a larger amount of air components are dissolved to the water supplied to the downstream side of the pressurized dissolution device 30 compared to normal water that does not pass through the pressurized dissolution device 30. The pressurized dissolution device 30 can also dissolve air components exceeding the saturation level in water and create a supersaturated state.

[0042] Then, when water supply is started in the pressurized dissolution tank 31 and the microbubble water supply valve 242 is closed, for example, after a predetermined time has elapsed, as the water level in the pressurized dissolution tank 31 drops, the pressure in the pressurized dissolution tank 31 also drops to near atmospheric pressure, and the intake valve 37 opens to introduce outside air into the pressurized dissolution tank 31 from the air introduction part 36. In this way, by repeating the opening and closing of the microbubble water supply valve 242, the pressurized dissolution device 30 can repeatedly discharge water in which air components are dissolved.

[0043] The microbubble generator 40 is provided on the microbubble water supply path R2, downstream of the microbubble water supply valve 242 and downstream of the pressurized dissolution tank 31. In this case, the microbubble generator 40 is attached to an intermediate portion of the outlet portion 33 of the pressurized dissolution device 30. The microbubble generator 40, together with the pressurized dissolution device 30, has a function of generating microbubbles such as nanobubbles and microbubbles in the water supplied from an external water source and generating microbubble water containing the microbubbles. That is, the microbubble generator 40 functions as a microbubble generation device for generating microbubble water together with the pressurized dissolution device 30.

[0044] The microbubble generator 40, by itself, has a function of mainly depositing microbubbles on the order of nanometers in the water passing through the microbubble generator 40. As shown in FIG. 5, the microbubble generator 40 has a throttle portion 41, a straight portion 42, and a collision portion 43. The throttle portion 41 and the straight portion 42 constitute a flow path for flowing water in the direction indicated by the black arrow in FIG. 5 in the longitudinal direction of the microbubble generator 40.

[0045] The throttle portion 41 is provided on the inflow side, that is, the upstream side of the microbubble generator 40. The throttle portion 41 is formed in a so-called truncated conical tapered tubular shape in which the cross-sectional area, that is, the inner diameter of the flow path, continuously and gradually decreases from the upstream end portion in the longitudinal direction of the microbubble generator 40 to the intermediate portion. The straight portion 42 is provided on the downstream side of the throttle portion 41. The straight portion 42 is formed in a cylindrical shape, that is, a so-called straight tubular shape in which the inner diameter does not change, that is, the cross-sectional area of the flow path, that is, the area through which the liquid can pass, does not change.

[0046] The collision portion 43 is provided at the downstream end portion of the straight portion 42. The collision portion 43 can generate a large amount of microbubbles mainly below the nanometer order in the liquid passing through the microbubble generator 40 by locally reducing the cross-sectional area through which water can pass in the microbubble generator 40.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 6, the collision part 43 is composed of, for example, four rod-shaped parts with pointed tips, and protrudes from the inner peripheral surface of the straight part 42 toward the center direction in the cross section of the straight part 42. The four collision parts 43 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the cross section of the straight part 42. In this case, the downstream surface of each collision part 43 is formed as a flat surface. Also, the area of the gap formed by each collision part 43 is the minimum cross-sectional area through which water can pass in the microbubble generator 40.

[0048] When water flows into the upstream side of the microbubble generator 40, the flow path cross-sectional area is reduced in the throttle part 41 formed so as to shrink into a truncated conical taper shape. Based on the so-called Bernoulli's theorem in fluid dynamics, the flow velocity is increased and cavitation due to pressure reduction occurs. Then, the high-speed flow collides with the collision part 43, and fine bubbles are generated by the shearing force acting thereby. As a result, the microbubble generator 40 can deposit a large amount of air dissolved in the water passing through the microbubble generator 40 as fine bubbles, and supply microbubble water containing a larger amount of fine bubbles than before passing through the microbubble generator 40.

[0049] Generally, microbubbles or fine bubbles are classified as follows according to the particle diameter of the bubbles. For example, bubbles with a particle diameter of about several μm to 100 μm, that is, in the micro order, are called microbubbles. On the other hand, bubbles with a particle diameter of less than 50 nm to 1,000 nm, that is, in the nano order, are called ultra-fine bubbles. In this embodiment, nano-order microbubbles, ultra-fine bubbles, and nanobubbles are all synonymous and mean bubbles with a particle diameter in the nano order.

[0050] Microbubbles are negatively charged as an electrical property and are easily electrostatically adsorbed to dirt with a positive charge attached to an object to be cleaned such as laundry. Dirt peeled off from the object to be cleaned by the electrical reaction with microbubbles floats and stays on the water surface by the buoyancy of the microbubbles while remaining adsorbed on the microbubble surface. On the other hand, since ultrafine bubbles have a fine particle size, they can penetrate into intricate parts and exhibit a cleaning effect of removing dirt on objects that cannot be completely removed by other fine bubbles such as microbubbles. As described above, since microbubbles and ultrafine bubbles have different expected cleaning capabilities due to the difference in their characteristics, it is possible to enhance the cleaning effect by using both of them together.

[0051] When the pressurization dissolution device 30 is provided upstream of the fine bubble generator 40, by using supersaturated water, the generation amounts of ultrafine bubbles and microbubbles can be significantly increased as compared with the fine bubble generator 40 alone. Then, by performing cleaning of objects to be cleaned such as laundry using the water that has passed through the pressurization dissolution device 30 and the fine bubble generator 40, an improvement in the cleaning effect can be expected.

[0052] Here, the pressurization dissolution tank needs to be designed so that it does not break or leak water even when a high water pressure is generated in the water supply path due to, for example, a water hammer. Therefore, measures such as providing ribs for reinforcement in the pressurization dissolution tank or increasing the number of connection points between a plurality of tank members are taken, but this may affect the complexity of the structure and the workability of assembly. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the pressurization dissolution device 30 has a pressure release mechanism 50. The pressure release mechanism 50 has a function of releasing the pressure inside the pressurization dissolution tank 31 to the atmosphere when the pressure inside the pressurization dissolution tank 31 becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure. The predetermined pressure is set to be higher than the pressure at which the intake valve 37 operates, and is set to about 0.7 to 1.0 MPa, for example.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 1, the pressure release mechanism 50 is provided between the pressure melting tank 31 and the water injection case 21. That is, when the pressure inside the pressure melting tank 31 is released by the pressure release mechanism 50, the fluid of air and water inside the pressure melting tank 31 is discharged into the water injection case 21. In this case, the pressure release mechanism 50 is connected to the water supply path R2. Note that the pressure release mechanism 50 is not limited to the configuration connected to the water injection case 21, and may be configured to be connected to, for example, the drainage path 152 or the circulation path 16. As shown in FIG. 3, the pressure release mechanism 50 is connected to the pressure melting tank 31 above the intake valve 37. In this case, the pressure release mechanism 50 is provided on the first tank member 311 side.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 7, the pressure release mechanism 50 can be configured to include a main body 51, a valve body 52, a valve seat 53, and a biasing member 54. The main body 51 connects the water injection case 21 and the pressure melting tank 31 in communication. The main body 51 is configured such that fluid can pass between the water injection case 21 and the pressure melting tank 31, and together with the outlet portion 33 and the air introduction portion 36, constitutes a plurality of communication flow paths. That is, the main body 51 constitutes a part of the plurality of communication flow paths.

[0055] In the present embodiment, the outlet portion 33, the air introduction portion 36, and the main body 51 that constitute the plurality of communication flow paths are all provided on the first tank member 311 side. Thereby, the maintainability of the pressure melting tank 31 can be improved. That is, for example, in the maintenance of the pressure melting tank 31, when trying to expose the inside of the pressure melting tank 31, the operator can attach the tank member 312 without the outlet portion 33, the air introduction portion 36, and the main body 51 while keeping the tank member 311 with the outlet portion 33, the air introduction portion 36, and the main body 51 provided thereon attached to the water injection case 21, and remove the tank member 312 without the outlet portion 33, the air introduction portion 36, and the main body 51 to expose the inside of the pressure melting tank 31.

[0056] The main body 51 is made of, for example, synthetic resin and is configured by combining a plurality of members. As shown in FIG. 7, the main body 51 is formed in a stepped cylindrical shape by, for example, a plurality of cylindrical shapes with different inner diameters. The main body 51 has a communication portion 511. The communication portion 511 is configured to allow fluid to pass through. The communication portion 511 is formed at one end of the main body 51, that is, on the pressurized melting tank 31 side. The valve body 52 is configured, for example, in a spherical shape and is for opening and closing the communication portion 511.

[0057] The valve seat 53 is provided inside the main body 51. The valve seat 53 can be configured integrally with or separately from the main body 51. In the present embodiment, the valve seat 53 is configured integrally with the main body 51 and is provided at a position corresponding to the communication portion 511. The valve seat 53 is formed, for example, in a tapered shape that gradually increases in diameter from the communication portion 511 toward the water injection case 21 side. The valve seat 53 contacts the valve body 52 when the communication portion 511 is closed.

[0058] The biasing member 54 biases the valve body 52 toward the valve seat 53. The biasing member 54 can be configured to have a main body portion 541 and a spring member 542. The main body portion 541 is formed, for example, in a circular shape and the valve body 52 is attached thereto. A slight gap is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the main body portion 541 and the inner peripheral surface of the main body 51. The main body portion 541 has a through hole 541a. The through hole 541a is formed to penetrate the main body portion 541 in the thickness direction and is configured to allow fluid to pass through. In this case, a plurality of through holes 541a are provided at a predetermined interval. The spring member 542 is configured, for example, as a coil spring. The spring member 542 is provided on the water injection case 21 side of the main body portion 541. The spring member 542 biases the valve body 52 and the main body portion 541 toward the communication portion 511 side.

[0059] When the valve body 52 is biased toward the valve seat 53 by the biasing member 54 and contacts the valve seat 53, the communication portion 511 is closed. When the pressure in the pressure dissolution tank 31 becomes a predetermined pressure or higher and exceeds the biasing force of the biasing member 54, the valve body 52 moves away from the valve seat 53 toward the water injection case 21 side. At this time, the fluid in the pressure dissolution tank 31 moves from the gap between the valve seat 53 and the valve body 52, and is discharged into the water injection case 21 through the through hole 541a of the main body portion 541 of the biasing member 54 and the opening 512 on the other end side of the main body 51. Then, when the pressure in the pressure dissolution tank 31 decreases, the valve body 52 contacts the valve seat 53 by the biasing force of the biasing member 54, and the communication portion 511 is closed again.

[0060] According to the embodiment described above, the washing machine 10 includes an outer box 11, a water tank 12, a water channel R2, a water supply valve 242, a pressure dissolution tank 31, a fine bubble generator 40, and a pressure release mechanism 50. The water tank 12 is provided inside the outer box 11. The water channel R2 is connected to the water tank 12 and water flows through it. The water supply valve 242 is connected to an external water source. The pressure dissolution tank 31 is provided downstream of the water supply valve 242 and dissolves an air component in the water supplied from the external water source through the water supply valve 242 by the water pressure of the water. The fine bubble generator 40 is provided on the downstream side of the pressure dissolution tank 31 and generates fine bubble water containing fine bubbles. And the pressure release mechanism 50 is connected to the water channel R2 and releases the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 into the water channel R2 when the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 becomes a predetermined pressure or higher.

[0061] According to this, when a high water pressure is applied to the pressure dissolution tank 31, the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 can be released to the outside by the pressure release mechanism 50. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the complication of the structure or the deterioration of the assembly workability in order to ensure the safety of the pressure dissolution tank 31. Therefore, it is possible to improve the cleaning effect while simplifying the structure and suppressing the decrease in productivity. Further, by connecting the pressure release mechanism 50 to the water channel R2, it is possible to avoid the water discharged from the pressure release mechanism 50 from leaking inside the washing machine 10.

[0062] Further, the washing machine 10 further includes a water injection case 21. The water injection case 21 is provided on the water passage R2, is disposed opposite to the pressurized dissolution tank 31, has a space inside, receives water supplied from an external water source via the water supply valve 242, and injects the water into the water tank 12. The pressure release mechanism 50 is connected to the water injection case 21.

[0063] According to this, by connecting the pressure release mechanism 50 to the water injection case 21, when high pressure is applied to the pressurized dissolution tank 31, the water and air inside the pressurized dissolution tank 31 can be discharged into the water injection case 21. Thereby, by shortening the path for opening the inside of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 to the atmosphere as much as possible, the structure around the pressurized dissolution tank 31 can be simplified, and the productivity of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 can be improved.

[0064] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 further includes an outlet portion 33. The outlet portion 33 is provided at the lower part of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 and is a portion through which water flowing out from the inside of the pressurized dissolution tank 31 to the outside passes. And the pressure release mechanism 50 is connected to the pressurized dissolution tank 31 above the outlet portion. Here, the pressure distribution when pressure is applied inside the pressurized dissolution tank 31 tends to be higher at the lower part than at the upper part. Therefore, by arranging the pressure release mechanism 50, which functions as a safety mechanism in case of abnormality, above the outlet portion 33, it is possible to avoid the pressure release mechanism 50 from operating prematurely. Thereby, the function of dissolving the air component in the water by the pressurized dissolution device 30 can be stably exerted.

[0065] Also, the washing machine 10 further includes an air introduction portion 36 and an intake valve 37. The air introduction portion 36 is provided above the outlet portion 33, communicates the inside and the outside of the pressurized dissolution tank 31, and introduces outside air into the pressurized dissolution tank 31. The intake valve 37 closes the air introduction portion 36 as the pressure inside the pressurized dissolution tank 31 rises, and opens the air introduction portion 36 as the pressure inside the pressurized dissolution tank 31 drops. And the pressure release mechanism 50 is connected to the pressurized dissolution tank 31 above the intake valve 37.

[0066] According to this, by providing the pressure release mechanism 50 above the intake valve 37, it is possible to prevent the pressure release mechanism 50 from opening the inside of the pressure dissolution tank 31 prematurely and inhibiting the replenishment of outside air from the air introduction part 36 into the pressure dissolution tank 31. Thereby, the function of dissolving air components in water by the pressure dissolution device 30 can be stably exerted.

[0067] The pressure release mechanism 50 includes a main body 51, a valve body 52, a valve seat 53, and a biasing member 54. The main body 51 has a communication part 511 through which fluid can pass. The valve body 52 opens and closes the communication part 511. The valve seat 53 is provided inside the main body 51 and contacts the valve body 52 when the communication part 511 is closed. The biasing member 54 biases the valve body 52 toward the valve seat 53. According to this, with a simple configuration in which the communication part 511 is opened and closed by the movement of the valve body 52 biased by the biasing member 54, the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 can be released to the atmosphere. Therefore, even in a configuration provided with the pressure release mechanism 50, it is possible to suppress an increase in cost as much as possible.

[0068] (Second Embodiment) Next, the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 8. The configuration of this embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment in the configuration of the pressure release mechanism 50. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the valve body 52 was biased toward the valve seat 53 by the biasing member 54, whereas in this embodiment, the pressure release mechanism 50 does not have the biasing member 54. The configurations other than the pressure release mechanism 50 shown in FIG. 8 can be the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0069] In this embodiment, a part of the main body 51 of the pressure release mechanism 50 extends, for example, in the vertical direction. In this case, at least the communication part 511 is formed to extend in the vertical direction. And the valve seat 53 is formed on a surface formed by inclining downward toward the inside among the inner peripheral surfaces of the main body 51.

[0070] The pressure release mechanism 50 can be configured to include a restricting portion 55. The restricting portion 55 is for restricting the valve body 52 from moving in a direction away from the valve seat 53, that is, a movement of a predetermined amount or more toward the water injection case 21 side. In this case, the restricting portion 55 is formed around the opening 512. The restricting portions 55 are arranged at a predetermined interval, for example, along the circumferential direction of the opening 512. In this way, even when the valve body 52 comes into contact with the restricting portion 55, the opening 512 is configured not to be blocked. And the valve body 52 is movable between the valve seat 53 and the restricting portion 55 by its own weight.

[0071] In this configuration, when the pressure in the pressure melting tank 31 becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined pressure and exceeds the weight of the valve body 52 with the valve body 52 seated on the valve seat 53 and the communication portion 511 closed, the valve body 52 moves upward along the inner peripheral surface of the main body 51 away from the valve seat 53. At this time, the fluid in the pressure melting tank 31 moves from the gap between the valve seat 53 and the valve body 52 and is discharged into the water injection case 21 through the opening 512. Then, when the pressure in the pressure melting tank 31 decreases, the valve body 52 moves downward by its own weight and seats on the valve seat 53, and the communication portion 511 is closed again.

[0072] Also with such a second embodiment, the same operational effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained. Further, since the valve body 52 is configured to move within the main body 51 only by its own weight, the biasing member 54 can be omitted, so that the number of components can be reduced.

[0073] (Third Embodiment) Next, the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 9. The configuration of this embodiment is different from those of the above embodiments in the configuration of the pressure release mechanism. Specifically, in this embodiment, the pressure melting device 30 has a pressure release mechanism 60 instead of the pressure release mechanism 50. The configurations other than the pressure release mechanism 60 shown in FIG. 9 can be the same as those of the above embodiments.

[0074] The pressure release mechanism 60 is provided between the water injection case 21 and the pressure dissolution tank 31. The pressure release mechanism 60 can be configured to include a main body 61 and a sealing member 62. The main body 61 is formed in a cylindrical shape, for example. The main body 61 is detachably attached to the water injection case 21 and the pressure dissolution tank 31 respectively, for example, by means of concave-convex fitting or screw fitting. The main body 61 has a communication portion 611. The communication portion 611 communicates the inside and the outside of the main body 61 and is configured to penetrate the main body 61 in the axial direction. The sealing member 62 is formed in a thin plate sheet shape, for example, and is provided in the internal space of the main body 61. The sealing member 62 closes the communication portion 611 when the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 is less than a predetermined pressure. On the other hand, the sealing member 62 opens the communication portion 611 by breaking when the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 becomes equal to or higher than the predetermined pressure.

[0075] According to this, when the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 is less than the predetermined pressure, since the sealing member 62 closes the communication portion 611, the pressure is not released from the pressure dissolution tank 31 to the outside. Therefore, the function of dissolving the air component in water by the pressure dissolution device 30 can work smoothly. In addition, since the pressure release mechanism 60 is detachably attached between the water injection case 21 and the pressure dissolution tank 31 by the main body 61, when the sealing member 62 breaks, the main components of the pressure dissolution device 30 can continue to be used by replacing the pressure release mechanism 60. Therefore, the maintainability of the pressure dissolution device 30 can be improved.

[0076] (Fourth Embodiment) Next, the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 10. The configuration of this embodiment is different from that of each of the above embodiments in the configuration of the pressure release mechanism. Specifically, in this embodiment, the pressure dissolution device 30 has a pressure release mechanism 70 instead of the pressure release mechanisms 50 and 60. The configurations other than the pressure release mechanism 70 shown in FIG. 10 can be the same as those of each of the above embodiments.

[0077] The pressure release mechanism 70 is provided between the water injection case 21 and the pressure dissolution tank 31. The pressure release mechanism 70 is detachably attached to the water injection case 21 and the pressure dissolution tank 31, respectively, by, for example, concavo-convex fitting or screw fitting. The pressure release mechanism 70 can be configured to include a main body 71, a valve body 72, and a valve seat 73. The main body 71 is formed in a stepped cylindrical shape by, for example, a plurality of cylindrical shapes with different inner diameters.

[0078] The main body 71 has a communication portion 711, a large-diameter portion 712, a passage portion 713, and a housing portion 714. The communication portion 711 is formed at the rear end side of the main body 71, that is, the end portion on the water injection case 21 side. The large-diameter portion 712 is provided on the front end side of the main body 71, that is, closer to the pressure dissolution tank 31 side. The passage portion 713 is provided at the end portion of the large-diameter portion 712 on the water injection case 21 side. The housing portion 714 is provided between the passage portion 713 and the communication portion 711. The internal volume of the housing portion 714 is set to be larger than, for example, the internal volume of the passage portion 713.

[0079] The valve body 72 is configured, for example, in a spherical shape and is for opening and closing the communication portion 711. The outer diameter of the valve body 72 is set to be smaller than the inner diameter of the passage portion 713. The valve seat 73 is provided at the end portion of the large-diameter portion 712 on the water injection case 21 side and is formed in a tapered shape that gradually decreases in diameter, for example, toward the water injection case 21 side. As shown in FIG. 10(a), the valve seat 73 contacts the valve body 72 when the communication portion 711 is closed.

[0080] Either the valve body 72 or the valve seat 73 is formed of an elastic body. The elastic body has the property of deforming in response to an external force but returning to its original state when the external force is removed, and indicates a soft material that can be formed. In the present embodiment, the valve body 72 is formed of a material harder than an elastic body such as metal or synthetic resin. The valve seat 73 is formed of a rubber such as urethane rubber or silicone rubber. That is, among the valve body 72 and the valve seat 73, the valve seat 73 is formed of an elastic body. Note that the configuration is not limited to forming the valve seat 73 of an elastic body, and the valve body 72 may be an elastic body and the valve seat 73 may be formed of a material harder than the elastic body.

[0081] As shown in Fig. 10(a), as the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 increases, the valve body 72 comes into contact with the valve seat 73, and the communication part 711 is closed. As the increase in the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 progresses, the valve seat 73 deforms so as to gradually expand outward under the external force transmitted through the valve body 72. Then, as shown in Fig. 10(b), when the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 reaches or exceeds a predetermined pressure, the valve body 72 moves through the inside of the passage part 713 beyond the valve seat 73, thereby constantly opening the communication part 711. At this time, the valve body 72 is accommodated in the accommodation part 714 through the passage part 713.

[0082] In this case, when the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 is less than a predetermined pressure, the pressure release mechanism 70 can block the communication part 711 by the valve body 72 coming into contact with the valve seat 73 as the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 rises. On the other hand, the pressure release mechanism 70 can open the communication part 711 by the valve body 72 separating from the valve seat 73 as the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank 31 decreases. That is, when the pressure is less than a predetermined pressure, the pressure release mechanism 70 has the function of an intake valve for replenishing outside air into the pressure dissolution tank 31. According to this, the pressure dissolution device 30 can omit the intake valve 37. Thereby, the overall configuration of the pressure dissolution device 30 can be simplified, the number of parts can be reduced, and labor-saving in the assembly work can be achieved.

[0083] According to such a fourth embodiment, since the pressure release mechanism 70 is detachably attached between the water injection case 21 and the pressure dissolution tank 31 by the main body 71, when the valve body 72 constantly opens the communication part 711, the pressure release mechanism 70 can be replaced, or by pushing the valve body 72 back from the accommodation part 714 to the large diameter part 712 side, that is, by resetting the valve body 72 to its initial position, the main components of the pressure dissolution device 30 can continue to be used. Thereby, the maintainability of the pressure dissolution device 30 can be improved.

[0084] Note that the above-described embodiments can be combined with each other. Also, it is possible to extract and combine only the characteristic parts of two or more embodiments. The above embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0085] 10... washing machine, 11... outer box, 12... water tank, 21... water injection case, 242... water supply valve, 31... pressurized dissolution tank, 33... outlet portion, 36... air introduction portion, 37... intake valve, 40... microbubble generator, 50, 60, 70... pressure release mechanism, 51, 61, 71... main body, 511, 611, 711... communication portion, 52, 72... valve body, 53, 73... valve seat, 54... biasing member, 55... restricting portion, 62... sealing member, R2... water passage

Claims

1. An outer case, a water tank provided inside the outer case, a water channel connected to the water tank through which water flows, a water supply valve connected to an external water source, a pressurized dissolution tank provided downstream of the water supply valve, in which air components are dissolved in the water supplied from the external water source through the water supply valve by the water pressure of the water, an air introduction part that communicates the inside and outside of the pressurized dissolution tank to introduce outside air into the pressurized dissolution tank, a suction valve that closes the air introduction part as the pressure in the pressurized dissolution tank rises and opens the air introduction part as the pressure in the pressurized dissolution tank drops, a fine bubble generator provided on the downstream side of the pressurized dissolution tank to generate fine bubble water containing fine bubbles, a pressure release mechanism that is connected to the water channel and releases the pressure inside the pressurized dissolution tank into the water channel when the pressure inside the pressurized dissolution tank reaches a predetermined pressure or more, a washing machine comprising the above.

2. further comprising a water injection case provided on the water channel, arranged opposite to the pressurized dissolution tank, having a space inside, and receiving the water supplied from the external water source through the water supply valve and injecting the water into the water tank, the pressure release mechanism is connected to the water injection case, the washing machine according to Claim 1.

3. further comprising an outlet part provided at the lower part of the pressurized dissolution tank through which the water flowing out from the inside of the pressurized dissolution tank passes, the pressure release mechanism is connected to the pressurized dissolution tank above the outlet part, the washing machine according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. The pressure release mechanism is connected to the pressurized dissolution tank above the suction valve, the washing machine according to Claim 3.

5. the pressure release mechanism, has a main body having a communication part through which fluid can pass, a valve body that opens and closes the communication part, a valve seat provided inside the main body and in contact with the valve body when the communication part is closed, and a biasing member that biases the valve body toward the valve seat, the washing machine according to Claim 3.

6. the pressure release mechanism, has a main body having a communication part through which fluid can pass, a valve body that opens and closes the communication part, a valve seat provided inside the main body and in contact with the valve body when the communication part is closed, and a restricting part that restricts a movement of the valve body in a direction away from the valve seat by a predetermined amount or more, the valve body is movable between the valve seat and the restricting part by its own weight, the washing machine according to Claim 3.

7. the pressure release mechanism, A main body having a communication part through which a fluid can pass and detachably provided between the water injection case and the pressure dissolution tank, A sealing member that closes the communication part when the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank is less than the predetermined pressure and opens the communication part by breaking when the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined pressure, The washing machine according to claim 2.

8. The pressure release mechanism, A main body having a communication part through which a fluid can pass and detachably provided between the water injection case and the pressure dissolution tank, A valve body that opens and closes the communication part, A valve seat provided inside the main body and contacting the valve body when the communication part is closed, The main body has a passage part through which the valve body can pass and is located on the water injection case side of the valve seat, Either the valve seat or the valve body is formed of an elastic body, When the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined pressure, the valve body moves inside the passage part beyond the valve seat to open the communication part, The washing machine according to claim 2.

9. When the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank is less than the predetermined pressure, the pressure release mechanism closes the communication part when the valve body contacts the valve seat as the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank rises, and opens the communication part when the valve body separates from the valve seat as the pressure inside the pressure dissolution tank drops, The washing machine according to claim 8.

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