Filters and washing machines

Abstract

To provide a filter capable of efficiently collecting lint.SOLUTION: A filter 30 is detachably stored in a filter case and has a filter bottom plate 33, and a first filter side plate 34 and a second filter side plate 35 that are erected from side end edges along a longer direction X of the filter bottom plate 33. A bottom surface collecting part 33a formed of a bottom surface opening 33c to make water pass through and a bottom surface support part 33b partitioning the bottom surface opening 33c is provided on the filter bottom plate 33. The first filter side plate 34 is a side wall part to block water flowing toward a water outlet. A side surface collecting part 35a formed of a side surface opening 35c to make water pass through and a side surface support part 35b partitioning the side surface opening 35c is provided on the second filter side plate 35. The bottom surface collecting part 33a and the side surface collecting part 35a are provided in different ranges in the longer direction X.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a filter and a washing machine using the same.

Background Art

[0002] In a drum washing machine, a drainage path for discharging washing water to the outside of the washing tub is provided. A circulation path for returning the discharged washing water to the washing tub is also provided, and during washing, the washing water is circulated via the circulation path. The drainage path is provided with a filter unit having a lint filter for collecting dust such as lint generated during washing. By repeatedly using such a washing machine, when dust accumulates in the lint filter, there is a problem that the fluidity of the washing water decreases, the washing performance deteriorates, and it takes time to drain the water. This problem has been solved by removing the dust accumulated in the filter, and a washing machine that can easily remove the dust has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A conventional washing machine includes a housing, a water tank supported by the housing, a drum disposed in the water tank, a drainage path for discharging water drained from the water tank to the outside, a filter case provided in the middle of the drainage path, and a filter body that is detachably housed inside the filter case and collects foreign matters contained in the drained water. The filter body has a central portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the filter body and a plurality of side portions extending in a U shape around the central portion.

[0005] In conventional washing machines, the water flow in the filter case can become locally stronger depending on the connection point with the drainage path. In other words, the filter body does not take into account the differences in the force of the water flow that exits downwards and sideways from multiple sides, and there is a risk that foreign matter will be swept away by the strong water flow without being collected.

[0006] This disclosure is made to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a filter and a washing machine that can efficiently collect lint by dispersing the water flow. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The filter according to this disclosure is a filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to flow in and an outlet for water to flow out, and comprises a filter bottom plate and a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, the filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection portion formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other and a bottom support portion that partitions the bottom opening, one of the pair of filter side plates located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water toward the outlet, the other of the pair of filter side plates is provided with a side collection portion formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other and a side support portion that partitions the side opening, and the bottom collection portion and the side collection portion are provided in different areas in the longitudinal direction.

[0008] In the filter according to this disclosure, the filter bottom plate is configured such that a flat surface is provided directly below the inlet when the filter is mounted in the filter case. That's good too.

[0009] In the filter according to this disclosure, the bottom collection section may be provided in a configuration that excludes the area directly below the inlet when the filter is mounted in the filter case.

[0010] In the filter according to this disclosure, the bottom plate of the filter may be configured such that one end in the longitudinal direction is provided with a curved portion that curves upward from the center in the longitudinal direction towards the end.

[0011] In the filter according to this disclosure, the side collection portion may be configured to be located on the other end side in the longitudinal direction relative to the curved portion.

[0012] In the filter according to this disclosure, the area in which the side collection portion is provided extends from the curved portion to the other end in the longitudinal direction, and the area in which the bottom collection portion is provided may be narrower in the longitudinal direction than the area in which the side collection portion is provided.

[0013] In the filter according to this disclosure, one of the pair of filter side plates may be provided with a restrictive side wall portion erected from one side of the filter bottom plate, and the side collection portion may be provided above the restrictive side wall portion.

[0014] In the filter according to this disclosure, when the filter is mounted in the filter case, a water-permeable space may be formed between the other surface of the filter bottom plate and the inner surface of the filter case, allowing water flowing out from the outlet to pass through.

[0015] In the filter according to this disclosure, the bottom collection section may have a small opening that is smaller than the other parts of the bottom opening, partitioned by the bottom support column, and the small opening may be provided at a position corresponding to the outlet.

[0016] In the filter according to this disclosure, the ends of the bottom support portion and / or the side support portion may be configured to have a convex shape that protrudes toward the inlet side.

[0017] In the filter according to the present disclosure, the bottom support portion and / or the side support portion extend in a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction, and the bottom opening and / or the side opening may be configured such that the positions where they open on one surface and the other surface in the longitudinal direction are different.

[0018] In the filter according to the present disclosure, ribs protruding from the side wall portion are provided, and in a state where the filter is attached to the filter case, the ribs may be configured to contact the inner surface of the filter case.

[0019] The washing machine according to the present disclosure is characterized by including the filter according to the present disclosure.

Effects of the Invention

[0020] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a filter that achieves both collection performance and cleaning performance.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] It is a schematic diagram showing a main part configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] It is an exploded perspective view of the filter unit seen from obliquely above and forward. [Figure 3] It is an exploded perspective view of the filter unit seen from obliquely above and backward. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view showing a lint filter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] It is a top view of the lint filter. [Figure 6] It is a side view of the lint filter seen from the side of the first filter side plate. [Figure 7] It is a side view of the lint filter seen from the side of the second filter side plate. [Figure 8] It is a side view of the lint filter seen from the side of the filter rear end plate. [Figure 9] It is an enlarged perspective view showing an enlarged main part of the lint filter. [Figure 10]This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the area near the bottom collection section of the filter base plate. [Figure 11] This is an enlarged perspective view showing a magnified view of the bottom collection area. [Figure 12] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a filter case with a lint filter installed. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0022] The washing machine according to the embodiment of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0023] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the main components of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] The washing machine 10 according to the embodiment of this disclosure is a drum-type washing machine and comprises a main body 100 and a door 120. Inside the main body 100 is a washing tub 110 equipped with a rotating drum 111. The washing tub 110 is open on the front side of the main body 100, and when the door 120 is closed, the inside is sealed to be liquid-tight.

[0025] A filter unit 20 is connected to the washing tub 110 via a first pipe 131 and a second pipe 132. A circulation pump 140 is also provided in the middle of the second pipe 132. In other words, a circulation path consisting of the first pipe 131, the second pipe 132, the filter unit 20, and the circulation pump 140 is provided outside the washing tub 110, and during washing, the wash water is circulated between the washing tub 110 and the circulation path. Specifically, the wash water is sent from the washing tub 110 to the filter unit 20 via the first pipe 131, and returned from the filter unit 20 to the washing tub 110 via the second pipe 132. At this time, lint and other debris generated during washing are collected by the filter in the filter unit 20, and the wash water from which the debris has been removed is returned to the washing tub 110. In Figure 1, the second pipe 132 is connected to the back side of the washing tub 110, but the connection point of the second pipe 132 to the washing tub 110 is not particularly limited.

[0026] Furthermore, a third drainage pipe 133 is connected to the filter unit 20, and a shut-off valve 151 is provided on the third pipe 133. During washing, the shut-off valve 151 on the third pipe 133 side is closed and the circulation pump 140 on the second pipe 132 side is operated to circulate the wash water. During drainage, the circulation pump 140 is stopped and the shut-off valve 151 is opened to drain the water from the washing tub 110. The drained wash water also passes through the filter unit 20, so lint and other debris in the wash water are collected by the filter inside the filter unit 20, and the wash water from which the debris has been removed is drained.

[0027] Next, the specific configuration of the filter unit 20 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0028] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the filter unit viewed from diagonally above and in front, and Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the filter unit viewed from diagonally above and in rear.

[0029] The filter unit 20 consists of a filter case 21, a lint filter 30 (an example of a filter), and a knob member 22. The filter case 21 is a bottomed cylindrical case member, and the lint filter 30 is housed inside it. The filter case 21 is positioned inside the washing machine 10 so that the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical portion faces the front-to-back direction. In the following description, the orientation of the filter unit 20 is as it is positioned inside the washing machine 10. This indicates the orientation in which it is placed, with the front corresponding to the front side of the washing machine 10 and the rear corresponding to the back side of the washing machine 10.

[0030] The front side of the filter case 21 is provided with an insertion opening 211 for inserting the lint filter 30, and the lint filter 30 can be attached to and detached from the filter case 21 through the insertion opening 211. The lint filter 30 is attached to and detached from the filter case 21 while attached to the knob member 22. At this time, the lint filter 30 is attached to the knob member 22 by inserting the front end of the lint filter 30 into the rear end of the knob member 22. The knob member 22 has a male screw portion 221, and the insertion opening 211 of the filter case 21 has a female screw portion 212. When attaching or detaching the lint filter 30 to and from the filter case 21, the male screw portion 221 and the female screw portion 212 are locked or unlocked by rotating the knob member 22. The arrow A in Figures 2 and 3 indicates the direction in which the lint filter 30 with the knob member 22 attached is inserted into the filter case 21 (particularly the insertion opening 211).

[0031] An inlet 213, an outlet 214, and a drain 215 are formed on the side of the cylindrical portion of the filter case 21. The inlet 213 is located above the filter case 21 and is connected to the first pipe 131. The outlet 214 is located on the side of the filter case 21, approximately in the center of its longitudinal axis, and is connected to the second pipe 132. The drain 215 is located on the side of the filter case 21, at the rear end of its longitudinal axis, and is connected to the third pipe 133.

[0032] The lint filter 30 inside the filter case 21 is positioned between the inlet 213, the outlet 214, and the drain 215. This allows the lint filter 30 to filter the wash water (circulating water) flowing from the inlet 213 to the outlet 214 within the filter case 21 during washing, and to filter the wash water (wastewater) flowing from the inlet 213 to the drain 215 within the filter case 21 during drainage. In this embodiment of the disclosure, the outlet 214 and the drain 215 are referred to by different names to distinguish them, but both discharge water from both, and both the outlet 214 and the drain 215 correspond to the outlets described in the claims.

[0033] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a lint filter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] As shown in Figure 4, the lint filter 30 consists of a base portion 31 that is inserted into the knob member 22 and a filter portion 32 that extends rearward from the base portion 31. The filter portion 32 is a roughly rectangular parallelepiped with an open top and has a filter bottom plate 33, a first filter side plate 34, a second filter side plate 35, and a filter rear end plate 36. For the purposes of explanation below, the direction along the longitudinal side edge of the filter bottom plate 33 will be simply referred to as the longitudinal direction X, the direction along the short side edge of the filter bottom plate 33 will be referred to as the width direction Y, and the direction perpendicular to the filter bottom plate 33 will be referred to as the height direction Z.

[0035] The first filter side plate 34 is erected from the side edge of the filter bottom plate 33 in the longitudinal direction X, on the side where the outlet 214 and drain 215 are provided. In other words, when the lint filter 30 is attached to the filter case 21, the first filter side plate 34 faces the inner surface of the filter case 21 on the side where the outlet 214 and drain 215 are provided.

[0036] The second filter side plate 35 is the longitudinal X side edge of the filter bottom plate 33, and is erected from the side edge opposite to the first filter side plate 34. In other words, when the lint filter 30 is attached to the filter case 21, the second filter side plate 35 is relative to the filter case 21. It faces the inner surface on the side furthest from the outlet 214 and the drain 215.

[0037] The filter rear end plate 36 is the side edge of the filter bottom plate 33 in the shorter direction (width direction Y), and is erected from the side edge opposite to the base 31.

[0038] As described above, the base 31, filter bottom plate 33, first filter side plate 34, second filter side plate 35, and filter rear end plate 36 are arranged to surround the bottom and sides of the filter section 32 while leaving the top surface open, forming a container for temporarily holding water. For the purposes of explanation below, the part of the lint filter 30 surrounded by the base 31, filter bottom plate 33, first filter side plate 34, second filter side plate 35, and filter rear end plate 36 will be referred to as the inside of the filter section 32, and the part of the filter bottom plate 33, first filter side plate 34, second filter side plate 35, and filter rear end plate 36 that faces the opposite side from the inside of the filter section 32 will be referred to as the outside of the filter section 32.

[0039] Next, the detailed structure of each part of the lint filter 30 will be described with reference to Figures 5 to 8.

[0040] Figure 5 is a top view of the lint filter, Figure 6 is a side view of the lint filter as seen from the side of the first filter side plate, Figure 7 is a side view of the lint filter as seen from the side of the second filter side plate, and Figure 8 is a side view of the lint filter as seen from the side of the filter rear end plate.

[0041] The filter bottom plate 33, the second filter side plate 35, and the filter rear end plate 36 are provided with collection sections (bottom collection section 33a, side collection section 35a, and rear end collection section 36a) that allow water to pass from one side (the side facing the inside of the filter section 32, hereinafter referred to as the inside side) to the other side (the side facing the outside of the filter section 32, hereinafter referred to as the outside side). As water passes through the collection sections, debris such as lint contained in the water is trapped in the collection sections.

[0042] Specifically, the filter bottom plate 33 is provided with a bottom collection section 33a formed by a bottom opening 33c that allows water to pass through and a bottom support column 33b that partitions the bottom opening 33c. The second filter side plate 35 is provided with a side collection section 35a formed by a side opening 35c that allows water to pass through and a side support column 35b that partitions the side opening 35c. The filter rear end plate 36 is provided with a rear end collection section 36a formed by an opening that allows water to pass through and a support column that partitions the opening.

[0043] The following describes the detailed structure of these collection sections. However, the shapes of the openings and support columns, as well as the proportions of each part, are not limited in the collection sections described in this disclosure and may be modified as appropriate. It is sufficient that there are parts that allow water to pass through and parts that block and trap water and debris. For example, the collection section may be a mesh-like structure with multiple small holes arranged in a row, or support columns may be arranged in a grid pattern with rectangular openings, or multiple openings may be arranged irregularly. The shape of the collection section may be adjusted as appropriate, taking into consideration whether ease of cleaning or collection efficiency should be prioritized, depending on the location where it is provided.

[0044] In the bottom collection section 33a, the bottom opening 33c is an elongated hole extending along the width direction Y, and multiple bottom support columns are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction X. The bottom support columns 33b are stretched along the width direction Y from the vicinity of the first filter side plate 34 to the vicinity of the second filter side plate 35, and multiple bottom support columns are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction X. In other words, the bottom openings 33c and bottom support columns 33b are arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction X. The bottom collection section 33a is provided on the filter bottom plate 33, closer to the filter rear end plate 36.

[0045] In the side collection section 35a, the side opening 35c extends to the upper end of the second filter side plate 35. In other words, the side opening 35c is formed by cutting out a section downward from the upper end of the second filter side plate 35. The side collection section 35a is provided on the side of the second filter side plate 35 that is closer to the filter rear end plate 36. The detailed structure of the side collection section 35a will be explained later with reference to Figure 9.

[0046] In the rear end collection section 36a, an opening is formed by cutting out a section downward from the upper end of the filter rear end plate 36, and the opening is partitioned by a support column erected from the filter bottom plate 33. In addition, a beam extending along the width direction Y is provided in the rear end collection section 36a, and the opening is further partitioned by the intersecting support column and beam.

[0047] The lower surface (outer surface) of the filter bottom plate 33 is provided with a downward contact portion 33f that protrudes downward from the surrounding area. When the lint filter 30 is attached to the filter case 21, the downward contact portion 33f abuts against the inner surface of the filter case 21. The relationship between the downward contact portion 33f and the filter case 21 will be explained later with reference to Figure 12.

[0048] The first filter side plate 34 is a side wall that covers the entire surface from the bottom to the top without any openings. In other words, water that enters the inside of the filter section 32 does not pass through the first filter side plate 34, but instead heads towards the collection section located elsewhere. A rib 34a that protrudes outward is provided at the top end of the first filter side plate 34. When the lint filter 30 is installed in the filter case 21, the rib 34a abuts against the inner surface of the filter case 21. By providing the rib 34a that fills the gap between the side wall (first filter side plate 34) and the filter case 21 in this way, lint that could seep in through the gap between the side wall and the filter case 21 can be blocked.

[0049] Figure 9 is an enlarged perspective view showing a close-up of the main components of the lint filter.

[0050] Figure 9 shows the lint filter 30 viewed from an oblique angle above, with the top surface (inner surface) of the filter bottom plate 33 and the inner surface of the second filter side plate 35 visible.

[0051] In addition to the bottom collection section 33a described above, the filter bottom plate 33 is provided with a curved section 33d and a flat section 33e. The curved section 33d curves upward as it approaches the base section 31 (left end in Figure 9). In other words, the upper surface of the curved section 33d is higher near the base section 31 and gradually decreases along the longitudinal direction X towards the filter rear end plate 36 (right end in Figure 9). By providing the curved section 33d, the direction of the water flow can be smoothly changed to follow the curved section 33d, thereby preventing water stagnation within the lint filter 30 and improving the lint collection efficiency. The water flow into the lint filter 30 will be explained later with reference to Figure 12.

[0052] The end of the curved portion 33d is connected to a flat, non-sloping planar portion 33e, and the bottom surface collection portion 33a is provided at the end of the planar portion 33e. In other words, looking at the positional relationship of the filter bottom plate 33 in the longitudinal direction X, the curved portion 33d, the planar portion 33e, and the bottom surface collection portion 33a are arranged in the order from the base portion 31 side toward the filter rear end plate 36 side. As shown in Figure 9, the bottom surface collection portion 33a is provided in the longitudinal direction X in the range from the end of the planar portion 33e to the vicinity of the filter rear end plate 36 (bottom surface collection range FR1).

[0053] The second filter side plate 35 is provided with a regulating side wall portion 35d that is erected from the upper surface of the filter bottom plate 33, and the side collection portion 35a is provided above the regulating side wall portion 35d. In other words, the side collection portion 35a is positioned spaced apart from the filter bottom plate 33 and is located slightly higher by the amount of the regulating side wall portion 35d. In this way, the filter bottom plate 33 and the second filter By providing a regulating side wall portion 35d at the point where it intersects with the filter side plate 35, the water flow over the filter bottom plate 33 increases, making it easier to collect lint at the bottom collection portion 33a.

[0054] The side collection section 35a is positioned in the longitudinal direction X to align with the curved section 33d, the flat section 33e, and the bottom collection section 33a. Specifically, the side collection section 35a is located in the longitudinal direction X from the boundary between the curved section 33d and the flat section 33e to the vicinity of the filter rear end plate 36 (side collection range FR2). In other words, the side collection section 35a is located closer to the filter rear end plate 36 than to the curved section 33d. In this way, the side collection section 35a is positioned to avoid the vicinity of the curved section 33d, thus preventing the water flow intended to return to the main stream from leaking to the outside.

[0055] Comparing the bottom collection area FR1 and the side collection area FR2, the bottom collection area FR1 is narrower than the side collection area FR2 by the amount of the flat section 33e. Also, in terms of positional relationship in the longitudinal direction X, the side collection area FR2 includes a portion closer to the base 31 than the bottom collection area FR1. By making the bottom collection area FR1 narrower than the side collection area FR2 in this way, it is possible to prevent the water flow poured from above into the vicinity of the curved section 33d from flowing out from the bottom.

[0056] As described above, the lint filter 30 blocks the water heading towards the outlet via the shortest path with its side wall (first filter side plate 34), thus diverting the water flow and allowing for efficient collection of lint by making full use of the collection areas of the filter bottom plate 33 and the second filter side plate 35. Furthermore, by creating a difference between the bottom collection area FR1 and the side collection area FR2, the ratio of water flow towards each surface can be adjusted, preventing lint from concentrating in one place.

[0057] In this embodiment, the side support portion 35b is composed only of plate-shaped projections extending in the height direction Z, and no beams or other structures extending in the longitudinal direction X are provided. Therefore, the user can remove lint entangled in the side support portion 35b by moving their finger along it from the bottom end to the top end. If a member such as a beam were provided, it would be difficult to pull up the lint because it would get in the way. Thus, the side support portion 35b is designed in a comb-like shape with multiple teeth (projections) arranged in a row, taking ease of cleaning into consideration.

[0058] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the area near the bottom collection section of the filter bottom plate. In Figure 10, for the sake of clarity, the bottom support column 33b and the bottom opening 33c are shown in focus, while other parts are omitted.

[0059] Figure 10 shows a cross-section of the filter bottom plate 33 along the longitudinal direction X, with an enlarged view of the vicinity of the bottom collection section 33a. The end of the bottom support section 33b (support end 33b1) is a convex shape that protrudes toward the inlet 213. In other words, in the bottom support section 33b, the support end 33b1 located on the upper side of the filter bottom plate 33 protrudes upward from the filter bottom plate 33 (particularly the flat section 33e).

[0060] When cleaning the bottom collection section 33a, for example, the user can run their finger along the filter bottom plate 33 to remove lint tangled in the bottom support column 33b. If the support column ends 33b1 are flat and the filter bottom plate 33 is at a uniform height, there is a problem that when lint stuck to the support column ends 33b1 is pulled away towards the base 31 with a finger, it becomes entangled in the adjacent support column ends 33b1 on the base 31 side. In this embodiment, the support column ends 33b1 are made to protrude and have irregularities, so gaps are created between adjacent support column ends 33b1 and between the filter bottom plate 33 and the lint, making it easier to pull it away and thus improving cleaning efficiency.

[0061] The base support column 33b is broad and roughly flat, and is in a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction X. It is extended. Specifically, the bottom support column 33b is inclined such that the side of the base 31 (right side in Figure 10) is positioned upward and the side of the filter rear end plate 36 (left side in Figure 10) is positioned downward. Multiple bottom support columns 33b are arranged side by side with a predetermined interval in the longitudinal direction X, with their positions in the height direction Z being approximately the same. The bottom opening 33c located between the bottom support columns 33b is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction X along the bottom support columns 33b, and the opening position differs between the inner surface (upper surface of the filter bottom plate 33) and the outer surface (lower surface of the filter bottom plate 33). In Figure 10, the inclination reference line KL is shown as a dashed line along the direction in which the bottom support columns 33b and the bottom opening 33c are inclined, and the auxiliary line HL is shown as a dashed line parallel to the upper and lower surfaces of the filter bottom plate 33. In this embodiment, the angle between the inclined reference line KL and the auxiliary line HL (inclination angle θ), that is, the angle at which the bottom support column 33b and the bottom opening 33c are inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction X, is set to approximately 40°.

[0062] Multiple extended bottom support columns 33b are arranged in a slanted manner, and adjacent bottom support columns 33b are offset in the height direction Z, with their ends overlapping. As a result, when viewing the filter bottom plate 33 from above, the bottom opening 33c appears to be covered by the bottom support columns 33b.

[0063] Next, the water flow near the bottom collection section 33a will be explained. In the filter section 32, water flows in from above the filter bottom plate 33 through the inlet 213 and flows along the flat section 33e (arrow F1). When the water reaches the bottom collection section 33a, the support end 33b1 protrudes above the flat section 33e, creating a wavy water flow that goes over the support end 33b1 (arrow F2). In addition, a portion of the water flow branches off to avoid the support end 33b1 and becomes a water flow that passes through the gap in the bottom support section 33b and through the bottom opening 33c (arrow F3). In this way, because there is a convex shape on the inside of the lint filter 30 where lint is collected, the direction of the water flow changes in a wavy manner, making it easier for lint to get entangled in the bottom support section 33b. Furthermore, since the bottom support column 33b has a wing shape that is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction X, water can pass through the gaps in the bottom support column 33b and through the bottom collection section 33a, making it easier for lint to get entangled in the bottom support column 33b.

[0064] The bottom support column 33b may have varying thickness in parts. In this embodiment, the upper side of the filter bottom plate 33 is made thicker, and the lower side of the filter bottom plate 33 is made thinner. Changing the thickness of the bottom support column 33b changes the width of the bottom opening 33c accordingly. In other words, the bottom opening 33c becomes narrower in the thicker parts of the bottom support column 33b, and wider in the thinner parts of the bottom support column 33b.

[0065] In Figure 10, the bottom collection section 33a was described, but as shown in Figures 5 and 9, the side collection section 35a may also have a structure in which the side support column 35b is inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction X, similar to the bottom collection section 33a, or the end of the side support column 35b may be a convex shape that protrudes toward the inlet 213 side (inside the filter section 32).

[0066] Furthermore, although Figure 10 shows a bottom support column 33b inclined so that the base portion 31 is positioned upward and the filter rear end plate 36 is positioned downward, the design is not limited to this, and the direction of the inclination may be changed so that the base portion 31 is positioned downward and the filter rear end plate 36 is positioned upward.

[0067] Figure 11 is an enlarged perspective view showing a magnified view of the bottom collection area.

[0068] Figure 11 shows the area near the bottom collection section 33a viewed from diagonally above, oriented along the slope of the bottom opening 33c. In the bottom collection section 33a, a partition support section 33g is provided as part of the bottom support section 33b, connecting adjacent bottom support sections 33b in the longitudinal direction X. The surface opening 33c is partitioned in the width direction Y by the partition support 33g.

[0069] The bottom collection section 33a is provided with a small opening 33h, which is partitioned off to be smaller than the bottom opening 33c in other sections by bottom support columns 33b and partition support columns 33g. The partition support columns 33g may be provided in any part of the bottom collection section 33a, but in the small opening 33h, the partition support columns 33g are densely arranged. In this embodiment, the small opening 33h is provided in the bottom collection section 33a near the filter rear end plate 36. In other words, the bottom opening 33c is partitioned off to be smaller in the part close to the filter rear end plate 36 than in the part close to the flat section 33e. By providing the small opening 33h in this way, the lint collection efficiency can be partially improved.

[0070] When the lint filter 30 is attached to the filter case 21, the drain port 215 is located right next to the filter rear end plate 36 (see Figure 12 for details). When water is drained from the drain port 215, the water flow towards the drain port 215 becomes stronger, and therefore the water flow near the filter rear end plate 36 becomes stronger. For this reason, it is preferable to provide a small opening 33h in the area where the water flow becomes stronger depending on the outlet (including the drain port 215).

[0071] Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a filter case with a lint filter installed. Note that hatching has been omitted in Figure 12 for clarity.

[0072] The filter case 21 is installed inside the washing machine 10 such that the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical portion is inclined when the washing machine 10 is placed on a horizontal surface (hereinafter referred to as the reference surface). Specifically, the cylindrical portion of the filter case 21 is inclined such that the front end of the longitudinal axis (the side with the insertion port 211, to the right in Figure 12) is positioned upwards and the rear end of the longitudinal axis (the side with the drain port 215, to the left in Figure 12) is positioned downwards. Accordingly, the bottom surface (case bottom surface 216) of the cylindrical portion of the filter case 21 is installed in the washing machine 10 in an inclined state. In this embodiment, the angle of inclination of the case bottom surface 216 with respect to the reference surface is approximately 11°.

[0073] When the lint filter 30 is installed in the filter case 21, the filter bottom plate 33 is tilted relative to the washing machine 10, similar to the filter case 21. Specifically, the filter bottom plate 33 is tilted such that the base 31 is positioned upwards and the rear end plate 36 is positioned downwards.

[0074] As described above, when the lint filter 30 is attached to the filter case 21, the drain port 215 is located near the rear end plate 36 of the filter. The outlet port 214 is located to the side of the first filter side plate 34 and faces the vicinity of the boundary between the flat portion 33e and the bottom collection portion 33a.

[0075] When the lint filter 30 is attached to the filter case 21, the inlet 213 is located near the top of the flat section 33e. Therefore, the water flowing into the filter section 32 from the inlet 213 flows with force, but does not go directly to the bottom collection section 33a. Instead, as indicated by arrow F4, it hits the flat section 33e, where its force is weakened, and then a portion of the water flow goes to the bottom collection section 33a. In this way, the strong water flow does not directly hit the bottom collection section 33a, thus preventing lint carried by the force of the water from passing through without being collected.

[0076] Incidentally, when water hits the flat section 33e, a water flow is generated not only toward the bottom collection section 33a, but also toward the base section 31. If the filter bottom plate 33 and the base section 31 intersect perpendicularly and have an angular structure, there is a risk that water hitting the base section 31 will create turbulence and cause the water flow to stagnate.

[0077] However, in this embodiment, since a curved portion 33d is provided connected to the flat portion 33e, the water flow toward the base portion 31 is redirected along the curved portion 33d, as shown by arrow F5, to move in an arc toward the bottom collection portion 33a.

[0078] In this embodiment, the inlet 213 is positioned directly above the flat portion 33e, but the system is not limited to this configuration, and the inlet 213 may be moved further towards the base portion 31. In configurations where the position of the inlet 213 is changed, it is sufficient that the bottom collection portion 33a is provided in the portion excluding the area directly below the inlet 213.

[0079] As shown in Figure 12, the lower contact portion 33f described above is in contact with the case bottom surface 216 (the inner surface of the filter case). Since the lower contact portion 33f protruding from the filter bottom plate 33 is in contact with the case bottom surface 216, the lint filter 30 is mounted in the filter case 21 with the filter bottom plate 33 spaced apart from the case bottom surface 216. As a result, when the lint filter 30 is mounted in the filter case 21, a water-permeable space TK is formed between the lower surface of the filter bottom plate 33 and the case bottom surface 216, allowing water flowing out from the outlet to pass through. In this embodiment, the distance between the lower surface of the filter bottom plate 33 and the case bottom surface 216 is about 8 mm, but it is not limited to this, and the distance may be increased. By providing a water-permeable space TK in this way, water can flow efficiently to the bottom collection portion 33a, improving collection efficiency.

[0080] Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and do not constitute a limiting interpretation. Accordingly, the technical scope of this disclosure is not to be interpreted solely by the embodiments described above, but is defined based on the claims. This includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of equivalents to the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 10 Washing machines 20 filter units 21 Filter Case 213 Inlet 214 Outlet 215 Drain 216 Case bottom 30. Lint filter (an example of a filter) 31 Base 32 Filter section 33 Filter bottom plate 33a Bottom collection part 33b Bottom support section 33b1 Post end 33c Bottom opening 33d Curved section 33e Flat part 33f Lower contact part 33g Partition support section 33h small opening 34. First filter side plate 34a Rib 35. Second filter side plate 35a Side collection part 35b Side support section 35c side opening 35d Regulation side wall section 36 Filter rear end plate 36a Rear end collection section TK water flow space X Longitudinal direction Y width direction Z (height direction)

Claims

1. A filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to enter and an outlet for water to exit, Filter bottom plate and It has a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, The filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection section formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a bottom support section that partitions the bottom opening. Of the pair of filter side plates, the filter side plate located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water flowing toward the outlet. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a side collection section formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a side support section that partitions the side opening. The bottom collection section and the side collection section differ in their extent in the longitudinal direction. The filter bottom plate has a flat surface directly below the inlet when the filter is installed in the filter case. A filter characterized by the following:

2. A filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to flow in and an outlet for water to flow out, Filter bottom plate and It has a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, The filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection section formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a bottom support section that partitions the bottom opening. Of the pair of filter side plates, the filter side plate located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water flowing toward the outlet. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a side collection section formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a side support section that partitions the side opening. The bottom collection section and the side collection section differ in their extent in the longitudinal direction. The bottom collection section is provided in a portion of the filter that is not directly below the inlet when the filter is installed in the filter case. A filter characterized by the following:

3. A filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to flow in and an outlet for water to flow out, Filter bottom plate and It has a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, The filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection section formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a bottom support section that partitions the bottom opening. Of the pair of filter side plates, the filter side plate located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water flowing toward the outlet. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a side collection section formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a side support section that partitions the side opening. The bottom collection section and the side collection section differ in their extent in the longitudinal direction. The bottom plate of the filter is provided with a curved portion at one end in the longitudinal direction, which curves upward from the center to the end in the longitudinal direction. A filter characterized by the following:

4. The filter according to claim 3, The side collection portion is provided on the other end side in the longitudinal direction, relative to the curved portion. A filter characterized by the following:

5. The filter according to claim 3, The area in which the aforementioned side collection section is provided extends from the curved section to the other end in the longitudinal direction. The area where the bottom collection section is provided is narrower in the longitudinal direction than the area where the side collection section is provided. A filter characterized by the following:

6. A filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to flow in and an outlet for water to flow out, Filter bottom plate and It has a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, The filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection section formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a bottom support section that partitions the bottom opening. Of the pair of filter side plates, the filter side plate located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water flowing toward the outlet. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a side collection section formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a side support section that partitions the side opening. The bottom collection section and the side collection section differ in their extent in the longitudinal direction. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a restrictive side wall portion erected from one side of the filter bottom plate. The side collection section is provided above the regulating side wall section. A filter characterized by the following:

7. A filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to flow in and an outlet for water to flow out, Filter bottom plate and It has a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, The filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection section formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a bottom support section that partitions the bottom opening. Of the pair of filter side plates, the filter side plate located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water flowing toward the outlet. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a side collection section formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a side support section that partitions the side opening. The bottom collection section and the side collection section differ in their extent in the longitudinal direction. When the filter is installed in the filter case, a water-permeable space is formed between the other surface of the filter bottom plate and the inner surface of the filter case, allowing water flowing out from the outlet to pass through. A filter characterized by the following:

8. A filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to flow in and an outlet for water to flow out, Filter bottom plate and It has a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, The filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection section formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a bottom support section that partitions the bottom opening. Of the pair of filter side plates, the filter side plate located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water flowing toward the outlet. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a side collection section formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a side support section that partitions the side opening. The bottom collection section and the side collection section differ in their extent in the longitudinal direction. The bottom collection section has a small opening that is smaller than the other parts of the bottom opening, partitioned by the bottom support column. The small opening is provided at a position corresponding to the outlet. A filter characterized by the following:

9. A filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to flow in and an outlet for water to flow out, Filter bottom plate and It has a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, The filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection section formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a bottom support section that partitions the bottom opening. Of the pair of filter side plates, the filter side plate located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water flowing toward the outlet. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a side collection section formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a side support section that partitions the side opening. The bottom collection section and the side collection section differ in their extent in the longitudinal direction. The ends of the bottom support portion and / or the side support portion are convex in shape, protruding toward the inlet side. A filter characterized by the following:

10. A filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to flow in and an outlet for water to flow out, Filter bottom plate and It has a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, The filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection section formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a bottom support section that partitions the bottom opening. Of the pair of filter side plates, the filter side plate located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water flowing toward the outlet. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a side collection section formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a side support section that partitions the side opening. The bottom collection section and the side collection section differ in their extent in the longitudinal direction. The bottom support portion and / or the side support portion are extended in a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction, The bottom opening and / or the side opening are located at different positions on one surface and the other surface in the longitudinal direction. A filter characterized by the following:

11. A filter that is detachably housed in a filter case having an inlet for water to flow in and an outlet for water to flow out, Filter bottom plate and It has a pair of filter side plates erected from the side edge along the longitudinal direction of the filter bottom plate, The filter bottom plate is provided with a bottom collection section formed by a bottom opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a bottom support section that partitions the bottom opening. Of the pair of filter side plates, the filter side plate located on the side where the outlet is provided is a side wall portion that blocks water flowing toward the outlet. Of the pair of filter side plates, the other filter side plate is provided with a side collection section formed by a side opening that allows water to pass from one side to the other, and a side support section that partitions the side opening. The bottom collection section and the side collection section differ in their extent in the longitudinal direction. Ribs are provided that protrude from the aforementioned side wall portion. When the filter is installed in the filter case, the ribs abut against the inner surface of the filter case. A filter characterized by the following:

12. A washing machine comprising the filter according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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