Spot cleaning device for clothing

Abstract

To provide a partial-area washing device for clothing with which dirt on a partial area of a clothing item or the like can be efficiently and effectively removed in a small amount of time and which is also easy to handle.SOLUTION: A partial area washing device for clothing removes dirt on a partial area of a clothing item via a certain washing apparatus 20. The washing apparatus 20 includes a main apparatus body 21 that includes a wiper opening 24, a spray nozzle 25 that is located in a suction space 21c in a manner in which it faces towards the wiper opening 24, and a wiper cover 23 which is attached to the wiper opening 24. A partial washing process is performed by pressing the wiper cover 23 onto the clothing item via depressurizing the suction space 21c and also blowing washing water with the spray nozzle 25, and collecting the washing water by sucking it from the clothing item. The wiper cover 23 includes a suction reinforcement unit 51 which extends outwards from the periphery of a wiper face 50 and surrounds it.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed technology relates to a partial clothing cleaning device suitable for removing partial stains on clothing such as shirts and suits.

Background Art

[0002] Currently, clothing is generally washed in a fully automatic washing machine. For example, soiled clothing such as shirts, blouses, pants, and skirts is put into the drum together with detergent and the like. Then, by operating the washing machine, processes such as washing, rinsing, dehydration, and even drying are automatically performed, and the stains on the entire clothing can be washed and removed.

[0003] However, in the case of clothing containing wool or silk in the fabric, such as suits, jackets, and kimonos, when washed in a washing machine, problems such as loss of shape, damage to the fabric, wrinkles, and tearing may occur. The same applies to dresses made of thin fabrics. In the case of such delicate clothing, it is common to entrust a professional cleaner to remove the stains.

[0004] Although there are tools for cleaning such clothing, they are difficult to handle and have many problems, such as the spread of stains and the formation of color bleeding.

[0005] Patent Document 1 discloses a stain suction tool for the purpose of removing partial stains on clothing. The stain suction tool includes a stain suction plate with a handle. A flat surface provided with suction holes is formed on the stain suction plate. A spray nozzle for spraying water above the flat surface is also provided on the flat surface.

[0006] When using the stain suction tool to clean partial stains on clothing, first, the spray nozzle is operated to spray water on the soiled part of the clothing. Thereby, the stains are made to surface. Then, the flat surface is applied to the soiled part of the clothing, and the surfaced stains are sucked through the suction holes. This stain suction tool is attached to a three-dimensional press machine. Therefore, when pressing clothing, partial stains on the clothing can also be removed. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Registered Utility Model No. 3002142 Gazette [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] Washing machines are designed for removing dirt from the entire garment, or what is known as a full wash. Therefore, their cleaning action works on the entire garment, making them inefficient for removing localized stains. Dirt is also more likely to remain. A large amount of water is required for each wash cycle, and the washing process takes a long time. Consequently, washing machines are inefficient and wasteful for removing localized stains, especially for delicate garments.

[0009] In that respect, professional cleaning services can handle a wide variety of clothing and properly remove localized stains. However, they are expensive. From an economic standpoint, they are at a significant disadvantage.

[0010] In that respect, the stain suction device in Reference 1 can efficiently remove localized stains from clothing. Compared to a washing machine, it is compact and can be placed almost anywhere. It can also be used on delicate clothing. However, it has drawbacks in terms of ease of use and stain removal effectiveness.

[0011] In other words, the stain suction device described in Reference 1 works by wetting the soiled area of ​​clothing to loosen the dirt, and then suctioning it away. Therefore, while it can remove dirt that has adhered to the surface of the fabric, it is difficult to remove dirt that has soaked into the fabric.

[0012] Furthermore, this process requires spraying water to loosen the dirt. Therefore, it cannot be vacuumed immediately after spraying and requires a waiting period. Consequently, the operation is cumbersome and the work is time-consuming.

[0013] In response to this, the inventors previously developed a washing unit that can efficiently and effectively remove localized stains from clothing in a short amount of time (see Figure 1). As a result of further investigation, the inventors have found a technology that can further improve the performance of this washing unit.

[0014] Therefore, the primary objective of the disclosed technology is to provide a garment spot cleaning device that can remove localized stains more efficiently and effectively, and is also easy to use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] The disclosed technology relates to a garment spot cleaning device capable of performing a spot cleaning process to remove localized stains from garments using a predetermined cleaning device.

[0016] The cleaning device comprises a main body having an internal suction space that communicates with the outside through a wiping port at its tip, a spray nozzle installed in the suction space so as to be directed towards the wiping port, and a wiping cover attached to the wiping port.

[0017] The partial cleaning process is performed by depressurizing the suction space to press the wiping cover against the garment, supplying cleaning water to the spray nozzle to spray the cleaning water onto the garment, and then sucking and collecting the cleaning water from the garment.

[0018] Furthermore, the wiping cover is characterized by having a mesh-like wiping surface that covers the wiping opening, and a suction reinforcing portion that extends beyond the tip of the wiping surface and surrounds the periphery of the wiping surface.

[0019] In other words, this garment spot cleaning device can remove localized stains from clothing by using a predetermined cleaning tool. Furthermore, during the spot cleaning process, the garment can be held in place by suction to a wiping cover, thus preventing excessive force from being applied to the garment. Consequently, even delicate garments can have localized stains removed without damage.

[0020] The cleaning solution is then sprayed onto the absorbed clothing, and the sprayed cleaning solution is collected by suction to perform a spot cleaning. In other words, with a small amount of cleaning solution, the cleaning solution adheres to the clothing and is collected from the clothing, transferring the dirt attached to the clothing to the cleaning solution and removing it. Therefore, localized stains on clothing can be removed efficiently and effectively with a small amount of cleaning solution.

[0021] Incidentally, clothing has areas with uneven surfaces, such as collars, pockets, and buttons. In such areas, the adhesive properties of the clothing tend to decrease. When spot cleaning hanging clothing, it becomes even more difficult to ensure sufficient adhesive strength. Furthermore, wetting of the clothing can spread not only to the adhesive area but also to the surrounding area, potentially causing the clothing to become excessively wet.

[0022] Furthermore, in this type of washing method, it is preferable to allow as much of the sprayed washing water as possible to adhere to the clothing, and to recover as much of the washing water that has adhered to the clothing as possible.

[0023] In contrast, this garment spot cleaning device has a suction reinforcement section on the wiping cover that surrounds the wiping surface. By providing such a suction reinforcement section, the garment that is sucked onto the wiping surface adheres tightly to the surface of the suction reinforcement section and becomes curved.

[0024] As a result, when the clothing peels off and a small gap is formed between the clothing and the suction reinforcement part, air flows into the gap, and a Venturi effect occurs in the gap. Due to the Venturi effect, the peeling clothing is attracted to the gap. As a result, it becomes difficult for the clothing to peel off from the wiping cover, and the adsorption force can be stably ensured even for parts with a non-uniform surface. Through the partial cleaning process, partial stains on the clothing can be removed efficiently and effectively.

[0025] The suction reinforcement part may have an inner inclined surface that slopes downward toward the wiping surface, an outer inclined surface that slopes downward toward the opposite side of the wiping surface, and a top of a curved surface that smoothly connects both the inner inclined surface and the outer inclined surface.

[0026] In this way, even when moving the cleaning tool while adsorbing the clothing, it is possible to prevent snagging of buttons or the like and suppress damage to the clothing.

[0027] The wiping surface may have a cleaning water passage area through which the cleaning water sprayed from the spray nozzle passes and a cleaning water non-passage area through which the cleaning water sprayed from the spray nozzle does not pass, and the cleaning water non-passage area is arranged so as to surround the entire circumference of the cleaning water passage area.

[0028] When the amount of cleaning water soaking into the clothing increases, the wetting of the clothing spreads around it. On the other hand, if there is a cleaning water non-passage area around the cleaning water passage area, a large amount of air flows into the suction space through the cleaning water non-passage area. As a result, even if the wetting of the clothing spreads, it is sucked at the part facing the cleaning water non-passage area, so the spread of the wetting of the clothing can be suppressed. Moreover, since the suction reinforcement part protrudes from the outer periphery of the cleaning water non-passage area, it is difficult for the wetting of the clothing to spread outside the cleaning water non-passage area, and the cleaning water can be effectively recovered in the cleaning water non-passage area.

[0029] The cleaning water passage area may be formed in a similar shape to the wiping surface.

[0030] This allows the area where the wash water does not pass through to be approximately the same size around the entire circumference of the area where the wash water passes through, thereby improving the efficiency of wash water recovery.

[0031] The cleaning device is configured to slide in a predetermined wiping direction, and when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the wiping direction, the direction pointed to by the spray nozzle may be set to be inclined within a range of 30° from the perpendicular to the wiping surface.

[0032] In the range exceeding 30° from the perpendicular line, much of the sprayed cleaning water collides with the wiping surface, reducing the amount that reaches the clothing. Within the range of 30° or less, this collision can be reduced, allowing more cleaning water to adhere to the clothing. Furthermore, if the spray direction is set perpendicular to the wiping surface, the cleaning water may forcefully collide with the clothing, potentially pushing dirt deeper into the garment. However, by setting the spray direction to be inclined, the force of the cleaning water can be reduced, suppressing such problems.

[0033] The device body may have a gripping portion extending in the wiping direction to which a pressure-resistant hose for sucking the suction space is connected at one end, and a protruding portion that curves from the other end of the gripping portion and protrudes toward the wiping port, wherein an inclined surface is formed on the inner wall of the protruding portion facing the suction space to allow the cleaning water sucked in from the wiping port to flow toward the gripping portion.

[0034] This prevents cleaning water from accumulating around the wiping port when the wiping direction is approximately vertical. The water can then be immediately drained from the suction space via a pressure-resistant hose. Therefore, the spray of cleaning water can always be maintained at an appropriate level.

[0035] Preferably, the system further includes a suction mechanism that reduces the pressure by drawing in the suction space, a cleaning water supply mechanism that delivers cleaning water to the spray nozzle, and a control device that controls the operation of the cleaning water supply mechanism in accordance with the operation of the suction mechanism.

[0036] This allows for appropriate spot cleaning treatments to be performed depending on the situation.

[0037] For example, the control device may perform water volume adjustment control, which increases the amount of cleaning water supplied to the injection nozzle in response to a decrease in the pressure level of the suction space.

[0038] This prevents fluctuations in the amount of washing water passing through the suction space, even if the pressure level changes due to changes in the condition of the clothing, thus ensuring a stable washing effect.

[0039] Furthermore, the control device may perform the following: when the partial cleaning process begins, an injection delay control that starts supplying cleaning water to the injection nozzle after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of depressurization of the suction space; and when the partial cleaning process ends, an injection delay control that stops depressurizing the suction space after a predetermined time has elapsed since the stop of supplying cleaning water to the injection nozzle.

[0040] This allows the washing water to adhere stably to the clothes and prevents it from splashing out of the nozzle. This eliminates wasted washing water and prevents clothes from getting unnecessarily wet.

[0041] The control device may, during the execution of the partial cleaning process, perform a first cleaning control that changes the amount of cleaning water supplied to the injection nozzle while maintaining a constant pressure reduction level in the suction space, or a second cleaning control that changes the pressure reduction level in the suction space and changes the amount of cleaning water supplied to the injection nozzle in accordance with that change.

[0042] This changes the collision state of the washing water with the clothes, which can be expected to improve the washing effect. The amount of washing water used can also be reduced. In the case of the second washing control, the adsorption state with the clothes also changes, which can be expected to further improve the washing effect.

[0043] The control device may further include a housing having a clothing storage compartment for storing the clothing in a suspended state, and a moving device for moving the washing device in three directions (up and down, left and right, and front and back) inside the clothing storage compartment, wherein when the clothing is stored in the housing and a predetermined operation is performed, the control device moves the washing device with the moving device and automatically performs the partial washing process.

[0044] This allows for automatic, appropriate spot cleaning, making it highly convenient. [Effects of the Invention]

[0045] According to the garment spot cleaning device that applies the disclosed technology, localized stains on garments can be removed efficiently and effectively. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0046] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the cleaning unit that forms the basis of the disclosed technology (example). [Figure 2] This is a diagram illustrating the partial cleaning process performed by the cleaning unit. [Figure 3] This is a schematic perspective view showing the external appearance of the automatic garment washing device in this embodiment. A garment spot cleaning device applying the disclosed technology is incorporated therein. [Figure 4] Figure 3 shows schematic cross-sectional views indicated by arrow lines A3a and A3b. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing the new cleaning head, pressure-resistant hose, hose connection port, etc. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the basic flow of an automated clothing washing process. [Figure 7] This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the wiping cover. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the effect of the suction reinforcement section. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates the detailed internal structure of the new cleaning head. [Figure 10]This is a diagram to explain the inclination of the mesh ribs. [Figure 11] This diagram illustrates the range over which the cleaning water passes through the surface being wiped. [Figure 12] This diagram schematically shows the state of partial cleaning treatment. [Figure 13A] This is an example of a time chart for a partial cleaning process. [Figure 13B] This is an example of a time chart for a partial cleaning process. [Figure 13C] This is an example of a time chart for a partial cleaning process. [Figure 14] This figure shows the test results for the suction reinforcement section. [Figure 15] This figure shows the test results regarding the close proximity of the injection nozzles. [Figure 16] This figure shows the test results regarding the close proximity of the injection nozzles. [Figure 17] This figure shows the test results regarding the performance of the new cleaning head. [Figure 18A] This is a diagram illustrating a variation. [Figure 18B] This diagram illustrates other variations. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0047] The embodiments of the disclosed technology will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the following description is essentially illustrative. The forward / backward, left / right, and up / down directions used in the description are based on the automatic cleaning device. The Z-axis, X-axis, and Y-axis directions used in the description correspond to the forward / backward, left / right, and up / down directions, respectively.

[0048] <Cleaning unit that forms the basis of the disclosed technology> Before describing the disclosed technology, Figure 1 shows a reference example of the washing unit 100 that forms the basis of the technology. This washing unit 100 is a device capable of removing localized stains from clothing (spot cleaning), and is generally composed of a washing device before improvement (hereinafter also referred to as the pre-improvement washing head 101) and a washing water recovery box 102 that is provided separately from the pre-improvement washing head 101.

[0049] This washing unit 100 is designed to clean garments such as shirts, blouses, pants, and skirts. It can also be used for delicate garments such as suits, jackets, sweaters, dresses, and kimonos, including those made from wool, silk, or thin fabrics. In other words, this washing unit 100 is not limited by the type or condition of the fabric. Because it can clean a wide variety of garments, it offers excellent versatility.

[0050] Furthermore, the type of stain targeted by this cleaning unit 100 is localized staining (spot staining), where the soiled area is limited to a specific part of the garment. For example, stains from spilled food such as sauce or fruit juice are considered localized stains. For removing overall stains from clothing, a washing machine is more suitable than this cleaning unit 100. The clothing and stains targeted by the garment spot cleaning device related to the disclosed technology are also the same.

[0051] When removing localized stains with this washing unit 100, a predetermined wiping operation is performed on the clothing. This allows for the simultaneous spraying of washing water onto the clothing and the collection of the sprayed washing water. As a result, localized stains on clothing can be removed quickly, efficiently, and effectively.

[0052] The pre-improvement cleaning head 101 and cleaning water recovery box 102 are designed to be lightweight and compact. For example, the dimensions of the example cleaning water recovery box 102 are approximately 30cm (length) x 10cm (width) x 20cm (height). The pre-improvement cleaning head 101 and cleaning water recovery box 102 are connected by a flexible pressure-resistant hose 103.

[0053] As shown in Figure 1, the pre-improvement cleaning head 101 consists of a main body 101a, a conduit 101b, a small-capacity tank 101c, and the like. The main body 101a has a handle and a connecting pipe. A pressure-resistant hose 103 is connected to the rear end of the connecting pipe. It is operated by gripping the handle with one hand. As a result, the pre-improvement cleaning head 101 is designed to slide in the wiping direction DF with the wiping port 106 facing diagonally downwards and forwards.

[0054] The handle houses a mini pump 104, a battery 105, and other components. The small-capacity tank 101c is a small-capacity container for holding cleaning water and is detachably attached to the main body 101a. The conduit section 101b is a cylindrical member that communicates with the intermediate pipe and is attached to the main body 101a. A horizontally elongated wiping opening 106 is located at the tip of the conduit section 101b. A wiping cover 107 that is pressed against clothing is attached to the wiping opening 106.

[0055] The wiping cover 107 is formed in a substantially non-deformable, flat shape. That is, the wiping surface 107a fixed to the mounting frame is a substantially flat surface formed in a grid pattern by multiple linear frames.

[0056] A spray nozzle 108 that sprays radially is installed inside the conduit section 101b, at a position away from the wiping opening 106, and is directed toward the wiping opening 106. When the mini pump 104 is operated, the cleaning water contained in the small-capacity tank 101c is sprayed from the spray nozzle 108 toward the wiping opening 106.

[0057] Inside the wash water recovery box 102, an electric fan (not shown) is installed to suck air from inside the conduit section 101b via a pressure-resistant hose 103. In the spot cleaning process, the electric fan is activated to press the wiping cover 107 against the garment, and the mini pump 104 is then operated. In this way, wash water is sprayed onto the area of ​​the garment with localized stains using the spray nozzle 108, while the electric fan sucks up the wash water and collects it in the wash water recovery box 102.

[0058] Specifically, as shown by the dashed arrow Yw in Figure 2, when the washing water is sprayed, the droplets of washing water are scattered toward the wiping port 106. The droplets of washing water then pass through the wiping port 106 and collide with the clothing C. As a result, the propulsion energy is lost, the droplets of washing water adhere to the clothing C, and the clothing C becomes wet. As the clothing C becomes wet, the dirt on the clothing C is transferred from the clothing C to the washing water. The soiled washing water and droplets that do not adhere to the clothing C are sucked up and collected in the washing water collection box 102.

[0059] By pressing the garment against the mesh-like wiping surface and performing a wiping operation by alternately sliding it in the wiping direction DF, a moderate kneading effect is obtained on the garment fabric. In this washing unit 100, the garment is attracted and pressed by suction, so no excessive force is applied to the garment. Therefore, even garments made of delicate fabrics can be properly and effectively soiled.

[0060] (Challenges of the cleaning unit 100) Clothing has areas with uneven surfaces, such as curved surfaces, areas where fabric overlaps and creates steps (like collars and pockets), and areas where buttons or other components are attached. When the aforementioned wiping surface is applied to such areas, the adhesion to the clothing decreases, and the wiping surface tends to peel off the clothing easily.

[0061] In particular, unlike the manually operated washing unit 100, ensuring sufficient suction power becomes even more difficult when automatically washing clothes that are hanging.

[0062] Furthermore, it was observed that the wetting of the clothing spread not only to the area where it was absorbed by the wiping surface, but also to the surrounding area, indicating a tendency for the clothing to become wet easily. Moreover, in this type of washing method, where washing water is sprayed onto the clothing and simultaneously sucked up and collected, in order to wash efficiently and effectively with a small amount of washing water, it is preferable to allow as much of the sprayed washing water as possible to adhere to the clothing and to collect as much of the washing water that adheres to the clothing as possible.

[0063] Therefore, through diligent research, the inventors have discovered an effective technology that can address these challenges and further improve performance. The details of this technology will be explained below with specific examples.

[0064] <Automatic clothing washing device applying the disclosed technology> Figures 3 and 4 illustrate an example of a device (automatic garment washing device 1) capable of automatically performing a partial cleaning process. This automatic garment washing device 1 incorporates a "partial garment cleaning device" to which the disclosed technology is applied.

[0065] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view showing the external appearance of the automatic clothes washing machine 1. Figure F4a on the left side of Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view indicated by arrow A3a in Figure 3. Figure F4b on the right side of Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view indicated by arrow A3b in Figure 3.

[0066] This automatic garment washing device 1 is configured to automatically wash garments, mainly jackets, by placing them inside and performing predetermined operations. Note that "washing" here is not limited to washing with washing water, but broadly refers to removing dirt attached to the garments.

[0067] The automatic clothes washing machine 1 has a rectangular box-shaped housing 2 made up of a frame and panels, and is formed to resemble a closet. An equipment room 3 is installed at the bottom of the housing 2. Above this equipment room 3, a clothes storage room 4 is installed, which stores clothes in a suspended state, by partitioning the inside of the housing 2 with a floor panel 2a.

[0068] A pair of doors 2b, 2b that swing open and closed from side to side are installed on the front of the housing 2. Opening these doors 2b, 2b opens the front of the clothing storage compartment 4. A touch-operable monitor 5 is installed on the outer surface of one of the doors 2b. By operating this monitor 5, the automatic clothing washing device 1 performs a predetermined washing process. In other words, the monitor 5 constitutes an operating device.

[0069] As shown in Figure 4, in the case of the automatic garment washing device 1 of this embodiment, cameras 6 are installed approximately in the center of the front and rear inner walls of the housing 2 facing the garment storage compartment 4. These cameras 6 are installed to photograph the front and back of garments while they are hanging on hangers 8. The type, number, and arrangement of cameras 6 can be changed according to the specifications. In short, it is sufficient if the front and back of garments hanging on hangers 8 can be photographed.

[0070] As shown in Figure 3, two tank inlets 2c, 2c are provided at the front of the equipment room 3, allowing for the insertion and removal of the drainage tank 42 and the water supply tank 40. Disposal of wastewater stored in the drainage tank 42 and replenishment of cleaning water stored in the water supply tank 40 are carried out through these tank inlets 2c, 2c.

[0071] As shown in Figure 4, a latching bar 7 is installed at the top of the clothing storage compartment 4. The latching bar 7 extends horizontally from approximately the center in the front-to-back direction of the clothing storage compartment 4, and both ends are attached to the left and right sides of the housing 2. A latching portion 7a is provided approximately in the center of the latching bar 7 in the horizontal direction.

[0072] By attaching the hanger 8, on which the clothing is suspended, to the fastening part 7a, the clothing is positioned in a predetermined location in the clothing storage compartment 4. Specifically, the hanger 8 is positioned to extend in the left-right direction, and the clothing is positioned accordingly to face directly in the front-back direction.

[0073] Inside the housing 2, as shown in F4a, there is a garment washing mechanism 9 for washing clothes, and a control device 10 that controls the operation of the garment washing mechanism 9 according to the operation on the monitor 5. The control device 10 is located in the equipment room 3. The garment washing mechanism 9 consists of a movable unit 9A located in the garment storage room 4 and a fixed unit 9B located in the equipment room 3.

[0074] In the automatic garment washing device 1 shown in this embodiment, two movable units 9A are installed symmetrically front to back, as shown in F4b (front movable unit 9Af and rear movable unit 9Ar). The basic configurations of the front movable unit 9Af and the rear movable unit 9Ar are the same. Therefore, unless otherwise necessary, they will be described collectively as movable unit 9A.

[0075] The movable unit 9A mainly consists of a new washing head 20 and a head moving device 30. The new washing head 20 is a device that directly acts on clothing to perform washing and is supported by the corresponding head moving device 30. This new washing head 20 corresponds to the "washing device" of the clothing spot cleaning device.

[0076] Hose connection ports 11 are provided in two locations on the floor panel 2a. The upper ends of the pressure-resistant hoses 12 connected to each of these hose connection ports 11, 11 are connected to each new cleaning head 20 (details of the new cleaning heads 20, pressure-resistant hoses 12, etc. will be described later).

[0077] Each head moving device 30 is a device that moves the new washing head 20 in three directions: up and down, left and right, and front and back, within the garment storage chamber 4, and has a pair of Y-axis sliders 31, 31, an X-axis slider 32, a Z-axis slider 33, and a head support part 34. The pair of Y-axis sliders 31, 31 are installed so as to extend vertically along the left and right sides of the garment storage chamber 4. The Y-axis sliders 31, 31 of the front movable unit 9Af are located near the front edge of the garment storage chamber 4, and the Y-axis sliders 31, 31 of the rear movable unit 9Ar are located near the rear edge of the garment storage chamber 4.

[0078] The X-axis slider 32 extends in the left-right direction, with both ends supported by the Y-axis sliders 31, 31. The Z-axis slider 33 extends in the front-back direction, with one end cantilevered to the X-axis slider 32. A head support 34 is installed at the other end of the Z-axis slider 33 (the end that protrudes inward into the clothing storage compartment 4), and the new washing head 20 is supported by this head support 34.

[0079] Each of the Y-axis slider 31, X-axis slider 32, and Z-axis slider 33 incorporates components that constitute a linear actuator, such as a ball screw or servo motor (not shown). This enables highly accurate movement in accordance with position control. The X-axis slider 32 slides vertically as indicated by arrow Ay in response to the operation of the actuator of the Y-axis slider 31. The Z-axis slider 33 slides horizontally as indicated by arrow Ax in response to the operation of the actuator of the X-axis slider 32. The head support 34 slides vertically as indicated by arrow Az in response to the operation of the actuator of the Z-axis slider 33.

[0080] Although detailed illustrations are omitted, the stationary unit 9B consists of a water supply tank 40, a water supply pump 41, a drainage tank 42, a gas-liquid separation mechanism 43, a suction motor 44, and the like. When the water supply pump 41 is activated, the water stored in the water supply tank 40 is discharged at a predetermined pressure into the water supply tube 46, which will be described later.

[0081] A gas-liquid separation mechanism 43 is installed on top of the drainage tank 42. The gas-liquid separation mechanism is located in the passage connecting the suction motor 44 and the hose connection port 11. When the suction motor 44 operates, a suction force is generated at the hose connection port 11 to which the pressure-resistant hose 12 is connected.

[0082] (Overall structure of the new cleaning head 20, etc.) Figure 5 shows the new cleaning head 20, pressure-resistant hose 12, hose connection port 11, etc. Fd in Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view along arrow line A5, representing the internal structure of the new cleaning head 20.

[0083] The pressure-resistant hose 12 has a double-walled structure, and the water supply tube 46 is inserted inside it.

[0084] The new cleaning head 20 comprises a device body 21, a hose connection part 22, and a wiping cover 23. The device body 21 is made of a hollow resin molded product with an appearance that is roughly L-shaped when viewed from the side. The device body 21 has a gripping part 21a that is formed in a roughly cylindrical shape and a protruding part 21b that is connected to the upper part of the gripping part 21a. The protruding part 21b is formed to widen horizontally as it approaches the tip.

[0085] A horizontally elongated rectangular wiping opening 24 is provided at the tip of the protruding portion 21b. A wiping cover 23 of a predetermined shape is attached to the wiping opening 24. The wiping cover 23 consists of a rectangular frame-shaped mounting frame 23a that is attached to the edge of the wiping opening 24, and a mesh 23b that covers the inside of the mounting frame 23a.

[0086] In the disclosed technology, the shape of the wiping cover 23 has been devised in particular to achieve improved adsorption to clothing, increased washing efficiency, and reduced washing water volume. The details will be described later.

[0087] The lower end of the gripping portion 21a is integrated with the hose connection portion 22. The hose connection portion 22 is connected to the upper end of the pressure-resistant hose 12 in a sealed manner. As a result, the space (suction space 21c) that extends inside the device body 21 communicates with the inside of the pressure-resistant hose 12 and also communicates with the outside of the device body 21 through the wiping port 24.

[0088] The new cleaning head 20 is supported by the head support 34 with its gripping portion 21a extending vertically and its wiping opening 24 facing in the front-rear direction.

[0089] In the suction space 21c, a spray nozzle 25 is installed so as to be directed toward the wiping opening 24. The spray nozzle 25 is fixed to a fixing part 21d provided on the inner wall surface of the protruding part 21b. The tip of the spray nozzle 25 is provided with a spray hole 25a for spraying cleaning water. The cleaning water sprayed from the spray hole 25a is set to spread out at a predetermined spray angle and head toward the wiping opening 24.

[0090] The disclosed technology also features a newly designed cleaning head 20, including the arrangement of the spray nozzle 25 along with the wiping cover 23. Further details will be described later.

[0091] The base end of the spray nozzle 25 is connected to the downstream end of the water supply pipe 26 through which the cleaning water flows. The water supply pipe 26 is equipped with a backflow prevention valve 27 to prevent the cleaning water from flowing in the opposite direction to the spray direction. The upstream end of the water supply pipe 26 is located at the lower end of the gripping part 21a and is connected to the water supply tube 46.

[0092] Therefore, when the suction motor 44 is activated, the suction space 21c is reduced in pressure by suction through the pressure-resistant hose 12. If there is clothing near the wiping port 24, the clothing is attracted and adheres tightly to the wiping cover 23. This allows the dirt attached to the clothing to be sucked out and removed. In this state, when the water supply pump 41 is activated, the cleaning water stored in the water supply tank 40 is sent to the spray nozzle 25 through the water supply tube 46, and the cleaning water is sprayed toward the wiping port 24.

[0093] As a result, the washing water collides with the adsorption area of ​​the clothing, wetting that area. Then, the washing water contained in the adsorption area of ​​the clothing is drawn into the suction space 21c, and the washing water is recovered from the clothing into the suction space 21c. As a result, dirt absorbed into the adsorption area of ​​the clothing can be removed with a small amount of washing water. Since only a small amount of washing water is used, there is no need to connect to a water supply or other source. The water supply tank 40 is also compact and can be easily refilled.

[0094] The sucked-in dirt and cleaning water flow into the gas-liquid separation mechanism 43 through the pressure-resistant hose 12. In the process of passing through the gas-liquid separation mechanism 43, the cleaning water (wastewater) containing dust and dirt is separated from the air and stored in the wastewater tank 42. Since the amount of wastewater is small, the wastewater tank 42 is also compact and can be easily disposed of.

[0095] Furthermore, the suction motor 44 and pressure-resistant hose 12 constitute the "suction mechanism" of the garment spot cleaning device in the disclosed technology, and the water supply pump 41 and water supply tube 46 constitute the "washing water supply mechanism" of the garment spot cleaning device in the disclosed technology.

[0096] The control device 10 performs predetermined processes related to the operation of the automatic clothes washing device 1. For example, the camera 6 photographs the clothes and outputs the image data to the control device 10. The control device 10 outputs the operation screen data necessary for operation to the monitor 5 and displays buttons, etc. The monitor 5 outputs the operation data entered by touch operation to the control device 10. Based on this operation data, the control device 10 controls the operation of the water supply pump 41, the suction motor 44, and the head moving device 30 and performs an automatic washing process according to the level of soiling of the clothes.

[0097] In other words, everyday dirt on clothing such as suits consists of two types: dirt formed by hair, dandruff, dust, etc. adhering to the surface of the clothing (adhered dirt), and dirt formed by sauces, etc., soaking into the clothing (stain dirt). This automatic clothing washing device 1 is configured to efficiently and effectively automatically wash both this adhered dirt and stain dirt.

[0098] Specifically, the control device 10 operates the suction motor 44 without operating the water supply pump 41, and with the wiping nozzle 24 attached to a part of the garment, operates the head moving device 30 to move the new washing head 20 over the entire garment (whole garment suction process). Alternatively, it operates both the water supply pump 41 and the suction motor 44, and with the wiping nozzle 24 attached to a part of the garment and washing water sprayed onto that part of the garment, operates the head moving device 30 to move the new washing head 20 only to the area of ​​the garment to be washed, thereby automatically performing a partial washing process (automatic partial washing process).

[0099] Overall suction treatment is a treatment for attached dirt, while spot cleaning treatment is a treatment for stains. In the case of jackets such as suits, everyday attached dirt can cover the entire garment. Since the dirt is attached to the outer surface of the garment, it is preferable to remove it by suction. Therefore, for attached dirt, it is preferable to perform overall suction treatment, which targets the entire garment for cleaning.

[0100] In contrast, sudden stains rarely affect the entire garment and are often localized (so-called spot stains). Washing the entire garment with washing water to address such spot stains is inefficient. Furthermore, there is a risk of spreading the spot stain throughout the garment. Therefore, for stains, it is preferable to perform a spot cleaning treatment that cleans only the affected area of ​​the garment.

[0101] In particular, when performing an automatic spot cleaning process, the control device 10 performs a general suction process as a pretreatment before the spot cleaning process. That is, in the case of attached dirt, if cleaning water is sprayed, the wet dirt may adhere to the clothing and become fixed as it dries. On the other hand, by removing the attached dirt before performing the spot cleaning process, such problems can be mitigated and the clothing can be properly cleaned.

[0102] (Operation of the automatic clothes washing machine) This section describes the automatic garment washing process performed by the automatic garment washing device 1.

[0103] Figure 6 illustrates the basic flow of the automatic clothing washing process performed by the control device 10. The user places soiled clothes on hangers 8 and into the clothing storage compartment 4, closes the door 2b, and starts the automatic clothing washing device 1. The control device 10 then obtains the location information of the clothes by processing the image data of the clothes input from the camera 6. The control device 10 also requests the user to input whether or not there are any localized stains via the monitor 5.

[0104] As a result, as shown in Figure 6, if the control device 10 determines that there is no localized soiling (No in step S1), it performs the overall suction process described above (step S2). On the other hand, if the control device 10 determines that there is localized soiling (Yes in step S1), it processes the image data of the clothing and displays the image of the clothing on the monitor 5 (step S3).

[0105] This allows the user to specify the area with localized stains (localized stain area), and they select the localized stain area and touch the screen of monitor 5. If a localized stain area is specified (Yes in step S4), the control device 10 identifies that localized stain area as the area to be washed (step S5). Because the specification is based on the actual markings on the clothing, the area to be washed can be identified with high accuracy.

[0106] Then, the control device 10 performs a general suction process as a pretreatment (step S6), and then performs the automatic partial cleaning process described above (step S7). When the general suction process or the automatic partial cleaning process is completed, the control device 10 notifies the user with a buzzer or the like, indicating that the automatic cleaning process is complete.

[0107] Furthermore, the front movable unit 9Af and the rear movable unit 9Ar are able to see either the front or back of the garment by switching the screen on the monitor 5, and based on the instructions given for each, they perform individual cleaning processes. For example, if the stain is only on the front of the garment, the rear movable unit 9Ar will only perform a general suction process. If the stain is on both the front and back of the garment, both the front movable unit 9Af and the rear movable unit 9Ar will perform automatic spot cleaning processes according to the respective stains.

[0108] (Detailed structure of the new cleaning head 20) Figure 7 shows the wiping cover 23. F7a is a front view of the wiping cover 23, and F7b is a longitudinal cross-sectional view thereof.

[0109] As described above, the wiping cover 23 consists of a rectangular frame-shaped mounting frame 23a that is attached to the edge of the wiping opening 24, and a mesh 23b that covers the inside of the mounting frame 23a. The mesh 23b has a mesh-like structure in which multiple linear ribs 50a intersect, and forms a substantially flat wiping surface 50 that covers the wiping opening 24. The wiping cover 23 is a resin molded product, the mounting frame 23a has high rigidity that hardly deforms, and the mesh 23b has rigidity that allows for slight elastic deformation structurally.

[0110] The mounting frame 23a is provided with a protruding structure (suction reinforcement portion 51) that surrounds the wiping surface 50. The suction reinforcement portion 51 is formed to surround the entire circumference of the wiping surface 50, extending further forward than the wiping surface 50.

[0111] The suction reinforcement portion 51 has a U-shaped or substantially V-shaped cross-section and includes an inner inclined surface 51a that slopes downward toward the wiping surface 50, an outer inclined surface 51b that slopes downward toward the opposite side of the wiping surface 50, and a curved top portion 51c that smoothly connects to both the inner inclined surface 51a and the outer inclined surface 51b.

[0112] The height from the wiping surface 50 to the top 51c (protrusion) of the suction reinforcement part 51 is preferably 1 mm to 3 mm. More preferably, it is approximately 2 mm. By providing such a suction reinforcement part 51 around the wiping surface 50, the suction force on clothing can be improved without damaging the clothing. This is particularly effective for automatic clothing washing devices 1 that must suction clothing while it is hanging.

[0113] The effects of the suction reinforcement unit 51 will be explained in comparison with the washing unit 100 described above. Figure 8F8a shows the wiping cover 107 of the washing unit 100 without the suction reinforcement unit 51. Figure 8F8b shows the wiping cover 23 of the new washing head 20 with the suction reinforcement unit 51. These assume the state during the execution of the automatic partial washing process, that is, the case where the garment C is suspended and wiped downwards as indicated by the arrow YF.

[0114] In the case of the wiping port 106 of the washing unit 100, the boundary between the wiping surface 107a, where suction force acts, and the surrounding area, where suction force does not act, is flat. Therefore, when the clothing C moves away from the wiping surface 107a, the clothing C easily peels off the wiping cover 23. As a result, if even a small gap is created, air can easily flow in through that gap. Consequently, there is a risk that the clothing C will peel off the wiping cover 23, and suction force will not be obtained.

[0115] In contrast, with the new cleaning head 20's wiping cover 23, there is a suction reinforcement section 51 at the boundary of the wiping surface 50, so the clothing C adheres closely to the surface of the suction reinforcement section 51 and becomes curved. As a result, when the clothing C peels off and a small gap is formed between it and the suction reinforcement section 51, air flows into that gap, and a Venturi effect occurs. Due to the Venturi effect, the partially peeled-off clothing C is attracted to the gap. As a result, the clothing C becomes less likely to peel off the wiping cover 23, and the suction force can be stably ensured.

[0116] Adhesion is improved even in areas where the surface of clothing is not uniform, such as curved surfaces, areas where fabric overlaps and creates steps such as collars and pockets, and areas where parts such as buttons are attached. Furthermore, with the suction reinforcement part 51 in the above configuration, even when moving clothing while adhering to it, snagging on buttons and other parts can be prevented, and damage to the clothing can be suppressed.

[0117] Figure 9 shows a side view of the inside of the new washing head 20. Figure 9 also represents the state during the execution of the automatic partial washing process. That is, the clothing extends in a nearly vertical direction, and the new washing head 20 is slid downwards in its wiping direction DF. Therefore, Figure 7 corresponds to a view of the inside of the new washing head 20 from the left-right direction (a direction perpendicular to the wiping direction DF).

[0118] The wiping opening 24 is positioned to face directly toward the clothing. The spray nozzle 25 is positioned close to the wiping opening 24 such that its spray hole 25a faces the wiping opening 24 at a predetermined distance (15 mm to 60 mm). The direction of direction J1 (the direction in which the center line of the spray extends) is set to be inclined within a range of ±30° from the perpendicular J2 to the wiping surface 50.

[0119] In the range exceeding 30° from the perpendicular J2 to the wiping surface 50, much of the sprayed washing water collides with the mesh 23b, reducing the amount that reaches the clothing. Within the range of 30° or less, the structure of the mesh 23b can be modified to reduce collisions with the mesh 23b, allowing more washing water to be supplied to the clothing.

[0120] Furthermore, if the direction of spraying water J1 is set perpendicular to the wiping surface 50, the sprayed washing water may forcefully collide with the clothing, potentially pushing the dirt attached to the clothing further inside. Therefore, in order to reduce the force of the washing water, the direction of spraying water J1 is set to be inclined with respect to the perpendicular line J2. For example, the inclination angle θ in the figure is approximately 10°.

[0121] Furthermore, it has been confirmed that the degree of inclination of the ribs 50a of the mesh 23b in the direction of water passage does not significantly affect the amount of water adhering to the clothing.

[0122] Figure 10, part F10a, shows the mesh 23b of this new cleaning head 20. The inclination of its ribs 50a is perpendicular to the wiping surface 50, as shown by line L1. In contrast, Figure 10, part F10b, shows mesh 23b', in which the inclination of the ribs 50a is aligned with the directional direction J1 of the spray nozzle 25, as shown by line L2.

[0123] As in F10b, when the inclination of the ribs 50a of the mesh 23b' coincides with the direction of the spray nozzle 25 J1, the cleaning water easily passes between the ribs 50a. The cleaning water that collides with the ribs 50a then easily returns to the suction space 21c due to the airflow in the opposite direction and the inclination of the ribs 50a. In contrast, as in F10a, when the inclination of the ribs 50a of the mesh 23b is inclined relative to the direction of the spray nozzle 25 J1, the cleaning water easily collides with the ribs 50a, but the cleaning water that collides with them is easily pushed out along the ribs 50a.

[0124] As a result, it was confirmed that the amount of sprayed washing water adhering to the clothing is practically the same in all cases. Therefore, it is preferable that the ribs 50a of the mesh 23b be formed perpendicular to the wiping surface 50, as in the new washing head 20. This makes molding easier and ensures washing performance as described above.

[0125] As shown in Figure 9, it is preferable to form an inclined surface 60 on the inner wall of the protrusion 21b facing the suction space 21c, which allows the cleaning water sucked in from the wiping port 24 to flow down towards the gripping portion 21a.

[0126] Specifically, a downward-sloping inclined surface 60 is formed on the lower inner wall of the protruding portion 21b. Cleaning water that cannot pass through the mesh 23b remains in the suction space 21c, but by forming such an inclined surface 60, cleaning water does not accumulate around the wiping port 24. It can then be immediately drained from the suction space 21c through the pressure-resistant hose 12. Therefore, the spray of cleaning water can always be maintained in an appropriate state.

[0127] As described above, the cleaning water sprayed from the spray hole 25a is set to spread at a predetermined spray angle and head towards the wiping opening 24. Generally, the sprayed cleaning water spreads in a conical shape, but in this spray nozzle 25, as shown in Figure 11, it is set to spread in an elliptical shape to match the shape of the elongated wiping surface 50.

[0128] Furthermore, in this new cleaning head 20, the area through which the cleaning water sprayed from the spray nozzle 25 passes over the wiping surface 50 has been designed to improve the recovery rate of the cleaning water. Specifically, the wiping surface 50 has an area through which the cleaning water sprayed from the spray nozzle 25 passes (cleaning water passage area 53) and an area through which the cleaning water sprayed from the spray nozzle 25 does not pass (cleaning water non-passing area 54), and the cleaning water non-passing area 54 is positioned to surround the entire circumference of the cleaning water passage area 53.

[0129] In other words, the cleaning water is set to pass through approximately the center of the wiping surface 50, and there is a region on the outer periphery of the area through which the cleaning water passes that does not pass over its entire circumference.

[0130] Figure 12 schematically shows the state during the partial cleaning process. The cleaning water sprayed from the spray nozzle 25 passes through the cleaning water passage area 53 and reaches the garment C, wetting the garment C. As the amount of cleaning water that soaks into the garment C increases, the wetness of the garment C spreads to the surrounding area, and the excess cleaning water drips down the garment C.

[0131] In contrast, with this new washing head 20, there is a washing water non-passing area 54 around the washing water passing area 53, so a large amount of air flows into the suction space 21c through the washing water non-passing area 54. As a result, even if the wetting of the clothing C spreads, the washing water is drawn into the suction space 21c at the part opposite the washing water non-passing area 54, thus suppressing the diffusion of the wetting of the clothing C.

[0132] Furthermore, since the suction reinforcement section 51 protrudes from the outer periphery of the wash water-free zone 54, the wetting of the clothing is blocked by the suction reinforcement section 51, making it difficult for the wetting to spread outside the wash water-free zone 54. As a result, the wash water can be effectively collected in the wash water-free zone 54. Consequently, the part of the clothing facing the wash water-passing zone 53 (i.e., the soiled area) can be concentrated with the wash water, and the spread of the wet area to the surrounding area (i.e., the diffusion of soiled wash water) can be suppressed.

[0133] (Ingenuity in the control of partial washing process) In the partial washing apparatus for clothing to which the disclosed technology is applied, in addition to the above-described structural ingenuity, the control of the partial washing process is also ingenious.

[0134] For example, the control device 10 is configured to be able to effectively execute the partial washing process by controlling the operation of the washing water supply mechanism in accordance with the operation of the suction mechanism.

[0135] Specifically, the control device 10 executes control (water volume adjustment control) to increase the supply amount of washing water to the injection nozzle 25 in response to a decrease in the decompression level of the suction space 21c. The decompression level of the suction space 21c varies depending on the thickness and material of the adsorbed clothing.

[0136] Assuming that the suction force of the new washing head 20 and the injection amount of the washing water from the injection nozzle 25 are the same, when the decompression level of the suction space 21c is low (that is, the wiping port 24 is closer to the open state), the amount of washing water flowing out from the wiping port 24 to the outside (washing water passage amount) is less than when the decompression level of the suction space 21c is high (that is, the wiping port 24 is closer to the closed state).

[0137] That is, when the decompression level of the suction space 21c is low, the amount of air flowing into the suction space 21c is large. As a result, the air resistance increases, and the washing water passage amount, that is, the amount of washing water adhering to the clothing, decreases. The decrease in the washing water passage amount causes a decrease in the washing effect of the partial washing process. Therefore, the control device 10 executes the water volume adjustment control.

[0138] Thereby, even if the decompression level of the suction space 21c changes with the change in the state of the clothing, it is possible to suppress the increase and decrease of the washing water passage amount and ensure a stable washing effect.

[0139] The control device 10 also performs injection delay control and suction delay control during the partial cleaning process. Specifically, at the start of the partial cleaning process, it performs control to start supplying cleaning water to the injection nozzle 25 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the depressurization of the suction space 21c began (injection delay control), and at the end of the partial cleaning process, it performs control to stop depressurizing the suction space 21c after a predetermined time has elapsed since the supply of cleaning water to the injection nozzle 25 stopped (suction delay control).

[0140] Figure 13A shows an example of a time chart for a partial cleaning process to illustrate these controls. At the start of the partial cleaning process, the suction motor 44 is activated first, followed by the water supply pump 41 a predetermined time (t1). This allows the cleaning water to be sprayed while the clothing is still attached to the wiping port 24. At the end of the partial cleaning process, the water supply pump 41 is stopped first, followed by the suction motor 44 a predetermined time (t2). This allows the spraying of cleaning water to be stopped while the clothing is still attached to the wiping port 24.

[0141] These controls ensure that the washing water adheres stably to the clothes and prevent it from splashing out of the wiping port 24. This eliminates wasted washing water and prevents unnecessary wetting of the clothes.

[0142] The control device 10 may also intermittently perform suction or spray cleaning water. Specifically, during the execution of the partial cleaning process, the control device may perform control that changes the amount of cleaning water supplied to the spray nozzle 25 while maintaining a constant pressure reduction level in the suction space 21c (first cleaning control), or control that changes the pressure reduction level in the suction space 21c and changes the amount of cleaning water supplied to the spray nozzle 25 in accordance with that change (second cleaning control).

[0143] Figure 13B shows an example of a time chart for the first wash control. Figure 13C shows an example of a time chart for the second wash control. In Figure 13B, during the partial wash process, the supply of wash water is intermittently switched on and off, thereby controlling the amount of wash water sprayed to fluctuate. Since the collision state of the wash water with the clothes changes, an improvement in the washing effect can be expected. The amount of wash water used can also be reduced. Note that the wash water supply amount may be increased or decreased, rather than being limited to on / off control.

[0144] In Figure 13C, the output of the suction motor 44 is further controlled to fluctuate between high and low during the partial cleaning process, thereby changing the suction force of the new cleaning head 20. Furthermore, since the suction state to the clothing also changes, a further improvement in cleaning effectiveness can be expected.

[0145] <Verification results of the effectiveness of a garment spot cleaning device applying the disclosed technology> The inventors conducted various verification tests regarding the effects and capabilities of the disclosed technology. Some of these tests are described below.

[0146] (Effects of the suction reinforcement section 51) A test was conducted to compare the suction force of the wiping cover 107 of the cleaning unit 100 described above (comparative example), the improved wiping cover of the cleaning unit 100 described above with a suction reinforcement part 51 (Example 1), and the wiping cover 23 of the new cleaning head 20 described above (Example 2).

[0147] Furthermore, the area of ​​the wiping surface 50 of the wiping cover 23 of the new cleaning head 20 described above is larger (approximately 1.8 times) than the area of ​​the wiping surface 107a of the wiping cover 107 of the cleaning unit 100 described above. Also, as described above, there are differences in the arrangement of the spray nozzles 25 between the comparative example and Example 1 and Example 2.

[0148] In the test, under the same suction force conditions, one end of a designated clothing sample (fabric) was sucked up and lifted upward at a constant speed, and the height at which that end detached (lifting height) was measured. The test results are shown in Figure 14. The only difference between the comparative example and Example 1 is the presence or absence of the suction reinforcement part 51. Example 1 showed a significantly larger lifting height (more than twice as large) compared to the comparative example, indicating a remarkable improvement in suction force.

[0149] In Example 2, a lifting height equal to or greater than that of Example 1 was obtained. Therefore, it was confirmed that even when the area of ​​the wiping surface is different, a high suction force can be obtained by providing the suction reinforcement part 51.

[0150] (Effects of placing the spray nozzle close to the wiping opening) As described above, the spray nozzle 108 of the pre-improvement cleaning head 101 was located at a distance from the wiping opening 106, whereas the spray nozzle 25 of the new cleaning head 20 is located in close proximity to the wiping opening 24, specifically, the distance from the wiping surface 50 to the spray hole 25a (nozzle-to-wiping opening distance) is between 15 mm and 60 mm.

[0151] As a result, in the new cleaning head 20, as described above, by selecting an appropriate spray angle of the spray nozzle 25 to match the shape of the wiping opening 24, a cleaning water non-passing area 54 is provided around the cleaning water passing area 53 of the wiping surface 50. If the spray nozzle 25 is the same, the closer the spray nozzle 25 is to the wiping opening 24, the smaller the area of ​​the cleaning water passing area 53 becomes, and the larger the cleaning water non-passing area 54 becomes.

[0152] Within the range of the distance between the nozzle and the wiping opening, we investigated how the amount of washing water passing through and the amount of residual water on the clothes (amount of washing water not recovered) change during partial washing depending on the distance of the spray nozzle 25 relative to the wiping opening 24. Specifically, using a spray nozzle 25 with a spray angle of 65° in the lateral direction, partial washing was performed with nozzle-to-wiping opening distances of approximately 30 mm (far position) and approximately 20 mm (close position).

[0153] The results are shown in Figures 15 and 16. Figure 15 shows the change in the amount of wash water passing through the suction space 21c with respect to the reduced pressure level. Figure 16 shows the change in the amount of unrecovered wash water with respect to the spray time. The dashed line graph corresponds to the far-field configuration, and the solid line graph corresponds to the near-field configuration. Note that the fabric adsorption state represents the range over which the adsorption force acts on various garments in a suspended state.

[0154] As shown in Figure 15, it was confirmed that bringing the spray nozzle 25 closer to the wiping port 24 increased the amount of washing water that passed through, i.e., the amount of washing water that could adhere to the clothing. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 16, it was confirmed that bringing the spray nozzle 25 closer to the wiping port 24 decreased the amount of unrecovered washing water, i.e., the amount of washing water remaining on the clothing.

[0155] By bringing the spray nozzle 25 closer to the wiping opening 24, the washing water is less affected by the mesh 23b as it passes through the wiping surface 50, which is thought to have increased the amount of washing water that passes through. In addition, because the washing water passage area 53 is narrower and the washing water non-passing area 54 is wider, it is possible to concentrate the washing water on localized areas (partially soiled areas) of clothing, and to effectively suck up and collect the washing water from around those localized areas of clothing.

[0156] From these results, it is preferable to position the spray nozzle 25 closer to the wiping port 24, but the area 53 through which the cleaning water passes requires a certain amount of space. Therefore, it is preferable to set the nozzle-to-wiping port distance to 15 mm or more. Accordingly, it is preferable to position the spray nozzle 25 in close proximity to the wiping port 24, and specifically, it is preferable to set the nozzle-to-wiping port distance in the range of 15 mm to 60 mm. A nozzle-to-wiping port distance in the range of 20 mm to 40 mm is even more preferable.

[0157] (Performance comparison between the original cleaning head 101 and the new cleaning head 20) The performance of the pre-improvement cleaning head 101 (comparative example) and the new cleaning head 20 (example) in partial cleaning was compared. The results are shown in Figure 17. Figure 17 shows the change in the amount of cleaning water passing through the suction space 21c with respect to the reduced pressure level. The dashed line graph corresponds to the pre-improvement cleaning head 101, and the solid line graph corresponds to the new cleaning head 20.

[0158] In the test, the amount of washing water sprayed was kept the same (total amount approximately 10g), and the spray direction and other conditions were optimized for each, and a partial cleaning treatment was performed on a predetermined garment while it was hanging. As shown in Figure 17, unlike the pre-improvement washing head 101, the new washing head 20 was able to adhere almost all of the sprayed washing water to the garment. Furthermore, the new washing head 20 showed a significant increase in the amount of water absorbed by the garment compared to the pre-improvement washing head 101.

[0159] On the other hand, there was almost no difference in the amount of unrecovered wash water (the amount of wash water remaining on the clothes). Specifically, the amount of unrecovered wash water with the pre-improvement wash head 101 was approximately 0.7g, while the amount of unrecovered wash water with the new wash head 20 was approximately 0.8g. Most of the wash water adhering to the clothes is recovered into the suction space 21c by suction.

[0160] In other words, the new washing head 20, which applies the disclosed technology, makes it possible to adhere a large portion of the sprayed washing water to the clothing and to recover a large portion of the washing water that has adhered to the clothing. Therefore, localized stains on clothing can be cleaned efficiently and effectively with a small amount of washing water.

[0161] Furthermore, the disclosed technology is not limited to the embodiments described above, but also encompasses various other configurations.

[0162] For example, the shape of the new cleaning head 20 can be changed as appropriate according to the specifications. The shape of the wiping opening 24 and the wiping surface 50 is not limited to a rectangle, but may also be circular or elliptical. In that case, as shown in Figures 18A and 18B, it is preferable to form the cleaning water passage area 53 to be similar in shape to the wiping surface 50. This makes it possible to make the cleaning water non-passing area 54 approximately the same area around the entire circumference of the cleaning water passage area 53, thereby improving the cleaning water recovery efficiency.

[0163] Furthermore, the embodiments described an example in which the garment spot cleaning device in the disclosed technology is applied to the automatic garment washing device 1. However, the garment spot cleaning device in the disclosed technology is not limited to this and may be applied to other forms of automatic washing devices or manually operated washing devices such as the washing unit 100 described above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0164] 1. Automatic clothes washing machine 3 Equipment room 4. Clothing storage room 8 hangers 9. Clothes washing mechanism 9A Movable Unit 9B Immovable Unit 10 Control device 11 Hose connection port 12 Pressure-resistant hoses 20 New cleaning head (cleaning device) 21. Main body of the device 21a Grip part 21b Projection 21c suction space 23 Wipe-off cover 23a Mounting frame 23b Mesh 24 Wiping opening 25 spray nozzles 30 Head moving device 40 Water tanks 41. Water supply pump (washing water supply mechanism) 42 Drainage tank 43 Gas-liquid separation mechanism 44. Suction motor (suction mechanism) 45 Relay tube 46 Water supply tube 50 Wiping surface 51 Suction reinforcement part 51a Inner slope 51b Outside slope 51c top 53 Wash water passage area 54 Areas where washing water does not pass through DF wiping direction

Claims

1. A garment spot cleaning device capable of performing a spot cleaning process to remove localized stains from garments by using a predetermined cleaning device, The aforementioned cleaning device is The device body has a wiping opening at the tip, A suction space that communicates with the outside through the aforementioned wiping opening and extends inside the main body of the device, A spray nozzle is installed in the suction space so as to face the wiping opening, and the sprayed cleaning water is directed toward the wiping opening while being dispersed. A wiping cover is attached to the aforementioned wiping opening, Equipped with, The partial cleaning process is performed by depressurizing the suction space to press the wiping cover against the garment, supplying cleaning water to the spray nozzle to spray the cleaning water onto the garment, and then sucking and collecting the cleaning water from the garment. The aforementioned wiping cover, A mesh-like wiping surface covering the wiping opening, A suction reinforcing portion surrounds the wiping surface, extending outward from the tip of the wiping surface, A garment partial cleaning device characterized by having the following features.

2. In the garment partial cleaning device according to claim 1, The aforementioned suction reinforcement part An inner inclined surface that slopes downward toward the wiping surface, An outer inclined surface that slopes downward toward the opposite side of the wiping surface, The top of a curved surface that smoothly connects to both the inner and outer inclined surfaces, A garment washing device that has the following features.

3. In the garment partial cleaning device according to claim 1 or claim 2, The wiping surface is, A cleaning water passage region through which the cleaning water sprayed from the spray nozzle passes, A region where the cleaning water sprayed from the spray nozzle does not pass through, It has, A garment partial cleaning device in which the area where the washing water does not pass is arranged to surround the entire circumference of the area where the washing water passes.

4. In the garment partial cleaning device according to claim 3, A garment partial cleaning device in which the washing water passage region is formed in a shape similar to the wiping surface.

5. In a garment partial cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The cleaning device is configured to be slid in a predetermined wiping direction. A garment spot cleaning device, wherein, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the wiping direction, the direction pointed to by the spray nozzle is set to be inclined within a range of 30° from the perpendicular to the wiping surface.

6. In the garment partial cleaning device according to claim 5, The aforementioned device body, A pressure-resistant hose for suctioning the aforementioned suction space is connected to one end, and a gripping portion extends in the wiping direction, A protruding portion that curves from the other end of the gripping portion and protrudes toward the wiping opening, It has, A garment partial cleaning device, wherein an inclined surface is formed on the inner wall of the protruding portion facing the suction space, causing the cleaning water sucked in from the wiping port to flow down towards the gripping portion.

7. In a garment partial cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, A suction mechanism that reduces pressure by drawing in the aforementioned suction space, A cleaning water supply mechanism that delivers cleaning water to the aforementioned spray nozzle, A control device that controls the operation of the washing water supply mechanism in accordance with the operation of the suction mechanism, A garment spot cleaning device further equipped with the following features.

8. In the garment partial washing device according to claim 7, A garment spot cleaning device wherein the control device performs water volume adjustment control, which increases the amount of cleaning water supplied to the spray nozzle in response to a decrease in the pressure level of the suction space.

9. In the garment partial washing apparatus according to claim 7 or claim 8, The control device, At the start of the partial cleaning process, the injection delay control starts supplying cleaning water to the injection nozzle after a predetermined time has elapsed since the depressurization of the suction space began, At the end of the partial cleaning process, a suction delay control is provided which stops depressurizing the suction space after a predetermined time has elapsed since the supply of cleaning water to the spray nozzle was stopped, A garment spot cleaning device that performs this task.

10. In a garment partial cleaning device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, A garment partial cleaning device, wherein the control device performs a first cleaning control, which changes the amount of cleaning water supplied to the spray nozzle while maintaining a constant pressure reduction level in the suction space, or a second cleaning control, which changes the pressure reduction level in the suction space and changes the amount of cleaning water supplied to the spray nozzle in accordance with that change, while performing the partial cleaning process.

11. In a garment partial cleaning device according to any one of claims 7 to 10, A housing having a clothing storage compartment for storing the aforementioned clothing in a suspended state, A moving device for moving the washing equipment in three directions—up and down, left and right, and front and back—within the clothing storage compartment, Furthermore, A garment partial cleaning device, wherein by placing the garment in the housing and performing a predetermined operation, the control device moves the cleaning device with the moving device and automatically executes the partial cleaning process.

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