Automatic detergent dispenser for washing machines and washing machines

Abstract

To provide a washing machine which has achieved function improvement of a constitution regarding automatic input of a liquid agent.SOLUTION: A washing machine includes: an outer tub elastically supported in a housing; at least two tanks for storing a liquid agent supplied to the outer tub, and arranged along the first direction; and at least two automatic liquid agent input devices connected to a connection part formed at each tank, and arranged along the first direction. Each automatic liquid agent input device includes: a power part; a speed reduction mechanism engaged with the power part; and a pump mechanism connected to an output shaft of the speed reduction mechanism. The radial direction of the speed reduction mechanism is substantially orthogonal to the first direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an automatic liquid agent input device and a washing machine of a washing machine.

Background Art

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

[0003] The washing machine described in Patent Document 1 includes an automatic liquid agent input device including a housing case to which two tanks, that is, a detergent tank and a softener tank are attached.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, there is still room for improvement in terms of improving the function of the configuration related to the automatic input of the liquid agent.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problems and provide an automatic liquid agent input device that realizes an improvement in the function of the configuration related to the automatic input of the liquid agent and a washing machine equipped with the automatic liquid agent input device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] An automatic fluid dispenser for a washing machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an automatic fluid dispenser for a washing machine equipped with a tank for containing a fluid, comprising: a motor having a power unit that rotates around a rotating shaft; and a pump mechanism connected to the output shaft of the motor, which is spaced radially away from the rotating shaft of the motor and extends parallel to the rotating shaft, wherein the pump mechanism comprises a piston connected to the output shaft of the motor, a cylinder housing the piston, and a bracket to which the motor is mounted, and further comprises a fluid inlet for introducing the fluid into the pump mechanism, an inlet passage extending parallel to the radial direction of the motor and connecting the fluid inlet to the cylinder, through which the fluid flowing into the cylinder passes, and an outlet passage through which the fluid discharged from the cylinder passes, wherein, when viewed from the direction in which the output shaft extends, the motor is mounted to the bracket in a position in which the rotating shaft is further away from the inlet passage than the output shaft in the direction in which the inlet passage extends.

[0008] Furthermore, a washing machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises the above-mentioned automatic liquid dispensing device and a tank for containing the liquid, wherein the automatic liquid dispensing device is connected to a connection part provided on the tank. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an automatic liquid dispensing device that achieves improved functionality in the configuration for automatic liquid dispensing, and a washing machine equipped with the automatic liquid dispensing device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] schematic cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to the embodiment of this disclosure [Figure 2] Schematic front view of a washing machine [Figure 3] Perspective view of the automatic feeding unit [Figure 4] Perspective view of the automatic feeding unit [Figure 5] Top view of the automatic feeding unit [Figure 6] Partial perspective view of the automatic feeding unit [Figure 7] Perspective view of the case [Figure 8A] Perspective cross-sectional view of the automatic feeding unit [Figure 8B] Cross-sectional view of the automatic input unit [Figure 9] Partial exploded view of the tank, chemical agent input device, and chemical agent discharge flow path [Figure 10] Rear view of the tank, chemical agent input device, and chemical agent discharge flow path [Figure 11A] Exploded view of a single tank and the chemical agent input device [Figure 11B] Exploded view of a single tank and the chemical agent input device [Figure 12A] Schematic diagram of the chemical agent input device [Figure 12B] Perspective view of the cylinder, power unit, and speed reduction mechanism [Figure 12C] Side view of the cylinder [Figure 13A] Top view of the case showing the flow of water [Figure 13B] Top view of the case showing the flow of water [Figure 13C] Perspective view of the case showing the flow of water and chemical agent [Figure 14] Schematic cross-sectional view of the automatic input unit according to Modification 1 [Figure 15] Schematic cross-sectional view of the automatic input unit according to Modification 2

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] (Embodiment) A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0012] [Overall Configuration] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a washing machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 of the present embodiment is a washing and drying machine having an automatic chemical agent input function. In this specification, the chemical agent is a chemical agent used for washing laundry such as clothes, and includes detergents, fabric softeners, neutral detergents, etc.

[0013] As shown in Figure 1, the washing machine 1 comprises a housing 2, an outer tub 3, an inner tub 4, a drive unit 5, an automatic dispensing unit 6, a connecting channel 8, a water inlet 10, a drain valve 11, and a control unit (not shown).

[0014] <Enclosure> The casing 2 is a component that forms the exterior of the washing machine 1. The front of the casing 2 is provided with an opening 20 and a door 21 that can be opened and closed to cover the opening 20.

[0015] <Outer tank> The outer tub 3 is a roughly cylindrical member located inside the housing 2 and has the function of holding washing water. The outer tub 3 may also be called a water tank. The outer tub 3 has a cylindrical portion 34 and a bottom portion 36 that closes one end of the cylindrical portion 34. The central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 passes through the center of the bottom portion 36. The central axis V0 is inclined with respect to the horizontal. The outer tub 3 is elastically supported by a damper 30 and a coil spring (not shown), and vibrations during washing and spinning are absorbed by the damper 30 and the coil spring. The outer tub 3 has an opening 31 facing the opening 20 of the housing 2 and is sealed and connected to the opening 20 of the housing 2 by a bellows 32. The outer tub 3 is further provided with openings 33 and 35 for water passage. Opening 33 is an opening connected to the connecting channel 8, and opening 35 is a drain for draining water from the outer tub 3 to the outside.

[0016] Furthermore, in the following description, the horizontal direction along the central axis V0 will be defined as the front-rear direction M (Figure 1), and the horizontal direction perpendicular to the plane containing the central axis V0 will be defined as the width direction K (Figure 2). The front-rear direction M has a front side M1 toward the opening 31 and a rear side M2 ​​toward the bottom 36, and the width direction K has an outer side K1 away from the central axis V0 and a central side K2 toward the central axis V0.

[0017] <Inner tank> The inner tub 4 is a roughly cylindrical member that is rotatable around a central axis V0 inside the outer tub 3 and accommodates laundry 15 such as clothes. The inner tub 4 may also be called a drum. The inner tub 4 has a number of through holes 40. The through holes 40 connect the inner tub 4 and the outer tub 3, allowing the wash water to move from the inner tub 4 to the outer tub 3. The inner tub 4 also has openings 41 at positions facing the opening 20 of the housing 2 and the opening 31 of the outer tub 3.

[0018] <Drive Unit> The drive unit 5 is a component that rotates the inner tank 4. The drive unit 5, for example, has a power unit that rotates the inner tank 4.

[0019] <Automatic feeding unit> The automatic dispensing unit 6 is a unit for automatically dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid from a liquid storage tank into the outer tub 3. When the liquid is not dispensed manually, the automatic dispensing unit 6 dispenses the appropriate type and amount of liquid into the outer tub 3 during the washing or rinsing process, for example, according to the amount and type of laundry 15. The automatic dispensing unit 6 is connected to the outer tub 3 via a connecting channel 8 in order to supply the liquid to the outer tub 3.

[0020] The automatic dispensing unit 6 comprises a case 61, tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C (tanks 62B and 62C are not shown), liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C (liquid dispensing devices 63B and 63C are not shown), a liquid discharge channel 64, a manual dispensing section 65, and a water supply solenoid valve 66.

[0021] As shown in Figure 2, the automatic feeding unit 6 is located inside the housing 2, diagonally above the outer tank 3. The bottom surface 55 of the case 61 has a shape that follows the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion 34 of the outer tank 3. The bottom surface 55 is inclined downward toward the outside K1. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the bottom surface 55 is inclined downward toward the rear M2. The upper part of the automatic feeding unit 6 faces an openable and closable cover 60 provided on the top surface of the housing 2.

[0022] <Connection channel> The connecting channel 8 is a channel for flowing liquid from the automatic dispensing unit 6 to the outer tank 3. The connecting channel 8 extends downward from the liquid outlet 81 of the automatic dispensing unit 6 to the opening 33 of the outer tank 3.

[0023] <Water inlet> The water inlet 10 is a connection port for connecting a hose that supplies water to the outer tank 3 via the automatic water supply unit 6. The water inlet 10 is located on the top of the housing 2.

[0024] <Drain valve> The drain valve 11 is configured to be openable and closable, and when opened, it is a valve for draining the water stored in the outer tank 3 through the opening 35 of the outer tank 3. The drain valve 11 is located at the bottom of the housing 2.

[0025] <Department Head> The control unit (not shown) is a component that controls the operation of the washing machine 1. The control unit controls components of the washing machine 1 such as the drive unit 5, the liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, 63C of the automatic dispensing unit 6, the water inlet 10, and the drain valve 11. The control unit may, for example, include a memory (not shown) that stores a program and a processing circuit (not shown) corresponding to a processor such as a CPU, and the processor may function as these elements by executing the program.

[0026] Next, the components of the automatic feeding unit 6 will be explained with reference to Figures 3 to 6. Figures 3 and 4 are perspective views of the automatic feeding unit 6. Figure 5 is a top view of the automatic feeding unit 6. Figure 6 is a perspective view of a part of the automatic feeding unit 6.

[0027] <Case> As shown in Figure 3, the case 61 is a component that houses the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C that constitute the automatic dispensing unit 6, and the manual dispensing unit 65. The bottom surface 55 of the case 61 is inclined outward K1 along the outer casing of the outer tank 3, which is schematically shown by the dotted line. The top of the case 61 is open.

[0028] Here, the front surface M1 of case 61 is referred to as the front surface 56, and the rear surface M2 of case 61 is referred to as the back surface 57. As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the back surface 57 of case 61 is connected to the liquid injection devices 63A, 63B, and 63C (Figure 6), the liquid discharge channel 64, the water supply solenoid valve 66 (Figure 4), and the connecting channel 8 (Figure 4).

[0029] As shown in Figure 5, a supply channel 67 is formed in the upper part of the case 61. The supply channel 67 forms multiple independent paths along the outer circumference of the case 61. Each path supplies water from the water supply solenoid valve 66 into the interior of the case 61.

[0030] <tank> Case 61 houses three tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C arranged side by side in the width direction K. Tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C are containers for storing liquids used in the washing and rinsing processes. Tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C have a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape, with the longitudinal direction of the roughly rectangular parallelepiped

[0031] Tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C are removable from case 61. When the manual dispensing unit 65 is removed from case 61, a space is created at the front M1 of case 61. Therefore, tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C can be pulled out from the front M1 to detach them from the liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C (Figure 6) and removed upwards.

[0032] <Liquid dispensing device> As shown in Figure 6, the liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C are devices that draw a predetermined amount of liquid from tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C and discharge it into the liquid dispensing channel 64. The liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C are connected to their respective tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C via the rear surface 57 of the case 61. Liquid dispensing device 63A is connected to tank 62A, liquid dispensing device 63B is connected to tank 62B, and liquid dispensing device 63C is connected to tank 62C. The liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C are arranged side by side in the width direction K.

[0033] The detailed structure of case 61, tanks 62A, 62B, 62C, and liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, 63C will be described later.

[0034] <Liquid dispensing channel> As shown in Figure 6, the liquid discharge channel 64 is a flow channel member that supplies liquid and water to the outer tank 3 via the case 61. The liquid discharge channel 64 is located on the back surface 57 of the case 61 and is connected to three liquid input devices 63A, 63B, and 63C. The liquid discharge channel 64 extends downward inclined toward the outside K1. The fluid flowing through the liquid discharge channel 64 flows in one direction according to the inclination of the liquid discharge channel 64.

[0035] <Manual input section> As shown in Figure 5, the manual dispensing unit 65 is a mechanism for the user to manually dispense a single dose of laundry detergent liquid for each wash cycle. The dispensed liquid flows from the case 61 through the connecting channel 8 (Figure 1) into the outer tub 3 (Figure 1) in the dispensed amount. The liquid dispensed into the manual dispensing unit 65 may be in liquid or powder form. The manual dispensing unit 65 is removably housed in the case 61 at the front M1 of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C.

[0036] <Water supply solenoid valve> As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the water supply solenoid valve 66 is composed of three solenoid valves, and the opening and closing of each valve changes the path of the water supply channel 67 (Figure 5) to which the water is supplied. The water flows into the outer tank 3 via the case 61.

[0037] Next, the structure of the case 61 of the automatic feeding unit 6 will be explained in more detail with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the case 61.

[0038] As shown in Figure 7, case 61 has inner bottom surfaces B1, B2, and B3. The inner bottom surfaces B1, B2, and B3 are arranged in order along the outer surface K1. Inner bottom surface B1 is the surface located directly below tank 62A (Figure 6), inner bottom surface B2 is the surface located directly below tank 62B (Figure 6), and inner bottom surface B3 is the surface located directly below tank 62C (Figure 6). In other words, inner bottom surfaces B1, B2, and B3 form regions P1, P2, and P3 that accommodate tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, respectively.

[0039] The back surface 57 of case 61 is formed with tank connection ports 77A, 77B, and 77C, a first case connection port 78, a second case connection port 79, and a liquid outlet 81.

[0040] The tank connection ports 77A, 77B, and 77C are openings provided for connecting the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C housed in the case 61 to the liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C located outside the case 61.

[0041] Furthermore, the first case connection port 78 is an opening that allows water flowing from the supply channel 67 to flow into the liquid discharge channel 64. The second case connection port 79 is an opening that allows water from the liquid discharge channel 64 and the automatically dispensed liquid to flow into the case 61. The liquid outlet 81 is an opening that discharges the fluid that has flowed into the case 61 via the second case connection port 79 and the fluid from the manual dispensing section 65 toward the outer tank 3 through the connection channel 8. The first case connection port 78 is located at a higher position than the second case connection port 79.

[0042] The case 61 configured as described above, with tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C attached, will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 8A and 8B. Figure 8A is a perspective cross-sectional view of the automatic dispensing unit 6. Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of the automatic dispensing unit 6.

[0043] As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, depths L1, L2, and L3 are defined as the distance from the top surface to the deepest point of each tank 62A, 62B, and 62C. The depths L1, L2, and L3 of the three tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C increase outward by K1. The depth L2 of tank 62B is greater than the depth L1 of tank 62A, and the depth L3 of tank 62C is greater than the depth L2 of tank 62B.

[0044] Now, let's describe the volumes of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C. Returning to Figure 5, the top surfaces of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C have a common shape. The dimensions of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C in the width direction K and the front-to-back direction M may be the same. Because the top surface shapes are common, the volumes of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C increase along the outer K1 according to the depths L1, L2, and L3.

[0045] The three tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C may contain different or identical liquids. Taking into account the type of liquid and the volume of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, the liquids may be stored in tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C in order from least frequently used to least frequently used. For example, neutral detergent may be stored in tank 62A, fabric softener in tank 62B, and detergent in tank 62C.

[0046] As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the bottom surfaces of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, including their deepest parts, are aligned along the width direction K and become lower toward the outside K1 for each tank. Therefore, the bottom surfaces of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C are arranged in a stepped pattern. Directly below the bottom surfaces of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C are the inner bottom surfaces B1, B2, and B3 of case 61. The inner bottom surfaces B1, B2, and B3 are also formed in a stepped pattern, becoming progressively lower toward the outside K1. Therefore, the depths of regions P1, P2, and P3 increase sequentially toward the outside K1.

[0047] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8B, gaps H1, H2, and H3 are formed between each of the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C and their inner bottom surfaces B1, B2, and B3. The gap H3 between the inner bottom surface B3 and the bottom surface of tank 62C is larger than the gaps H1 and H2.

[0048] The area directly below tank 62C is close to the outside of the housing 2, and compared to tanks 62A and 62B, it is easier to secure vertical space, allowing for the formation of a large gap H3. Therefore, it is easy to form an input channel 82 that flows the liquid agent and water to the outer tank 3 along the inner bottom surface B3. With this configuration, the volume of tanks 62A and 62B can be maximized while also securing space for the input channel 82. The lower end of the input channel 82 forms a liquid agent outlet 81 (Figure 7), which communicates with the outer tank 3.

[0049] The rear surfaces M2 of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, i.e., surfaces including the short side, form connection parts 76A, 76B, and 76C. Connection parts 76A, 76B, and 76C are structured to connect to liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C. Each connection part 76A, 76B, and 76C is equipped with a check valve (not shown) and a connection port. The check valve opens when the liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C are installed, and the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C communicate with the liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C. The connection port is an opening from which the liquid is drawn out and faces the tank connection ports 77A, 77B, and 77C shown in Figure 7. Note that connection parts 76A, 76B, and 76C may further be equipped with other structures. The connection points 76A, 76B, and 76C are formed at the deepest parts of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C. Therefore, the depths L1, L2, and L3 of the connection points 76A, 76B, and 76C increase toward the outside K1.

[0050] Next, the liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C connected to tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 9 and 10. Figure 9 is a partially exploded view of tanks 62A, 62B, 62C, liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, 63C, and liquid discharge channel 64. Figure 10 is a rear view of tanks 62A, 62B, 62C, liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, 63C, and liquid discharge channel 64. Here, tank 62, liquid dispensing device 63, and connection part 76 are collectively referred to as tanks 62A, 62B, 62C, liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, 63C, and connection parts 76A, 76B, 76C, respectively.

[0051] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C become lower toward the outside K1 in accordance with the change in depth of the connection portion 76 of the tank 62. The liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C are arranged such that the liquid inlet 91 of the liquid dispensing device 63, described later, faces the connection portion 76 formed on the surface of the tank 62 including the short side. In this embodiment, the liquid dispensing devices 63A, 63B, and 63C are arranged in a stepped manner, and the liquid dispensing devices 63, the tank 62, and the connection portion 76 in the stepped manner have an equal pitch in the depth direction. This structure makes it possible to equalize the distance over which the liquid flows from the connection portion 76 to the liquid dispensing device 63 in the three tanks 62. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the variation in pressure loss that occurs when the pump mechanism 73, described later, is driven in the path between the connection portion 76 and the liquid dispensing device 63. Thus, it is possible to suppress variations in the amount of liquid supplied by the liquid dispensing device 63.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the tank 62 comprises a body 87 and a lid 88. The top of the body 87 is open and covered by the lid 88. The lid 88 is detachably held by the body 87. As mentioned above, the top surface of the tanks 62 has a common shape, and therefore the top surface of the body 87 has a common shape. The structure for holding the lid 88 is also common. Therefore, it is possible to form the lid 88 of each tank 62 in common, and the lid 88 is interchangeable. More specifically, the lid 88 of any tank 62A, 62B, or 62C can be attached to any other tank 62A, 62B, or 62C. On the other hand, the color, pattern, letters, and other markings on the lid 88 that improve the identifiability of the tank 62 may differ. The lid 88 has a small lid 88A on the front side M1 of the tank 62 that can be opened and closed relative to the lid 88.

[0053] Using a liquid dispensing device 63 connected to an arbitrary tank 62 as an example, the structure of a single liquid dispensing device 63 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 11A, 11B, and 12A. Figure 11A is an exploded view of a single tank 62 and liquid dispensing device 63. Figure 11B is an exploded view of a single tank 62 and liquid dispensing device 63. Figure 12A is a schematic diagram of the liquid dispensing device 63, with some components omitted to show the inside of the liquid dispensing device 63.

[0054] As shown in Figures 11A and 11B, the liquid dispensing device 63 is detachably connected to the rear surface 90 of the tank 62 along the front-to-back direction M. In other words, the tank 62 and the liquid dispensing device 63 connected to the tank 62 are each arranged along the front-to-back direction M.

[0055] As shown in Figure 11A, the liquid dispensing device 63 comprises a power unit 71, a reduction mechanism 72, and a pump mechanism 73. The power unit 71 is an electronic component that rotates around a rotation axis V1. The reduction mechanism 72 is arranged around the power unit 71 and is a mechanism that has an output shaft V2 (Figure 12A) that rotates at a lower rotational speed than the power unit 71. The output shaft V2 is parallel to the rotation axis V1. The pump mechanism 73 is a positive displacement pump connected to the output shaft V2 that draws up and discharges liquid from the tank 62. When the rotation axis V1 of the power unit 71 rotates, the output shaft V2 of the reduction mechanism 72 rotates, causing the piston 83 in the pump mechanism 73, which will be described later, to move up and down.

[0056] The arrangement of the liquid dispensing device 63 will be described in more detail. As shown in Figure 11A, the reduction mechanism 72 and the power unit 71 extend in the radial direction R1. The radial direction R1 refers to the horizontal direction away from the output shaft V2 in a plane perpendicular to the output shaft V2. The radial direction R1 is parallel to the plane on which the power unit 71 and the reduction mechanism 72 rotate. The radial direction R1 is approximately perpendicular to the width direction K. The angle formed between the radial direction R1 and the width direction K is between 60° and 120°. In this embodiment, the radial direction R1 is perpendicular to the width direction K and parallel to the front-rear direction M. Furthermore, the radial direction R1 is parallel to the direction in which the liquid dispensing device 63 is connected to the tank 62, that is, the direction in which the liquid flows into the liquid dispensing device 63.

[0057] Furthermore, the dimension D1 of the reduction mechanism 72 in the radial direction R1 is greater than the thickness T1 of the reduction mechanism 72 extending to the rotation axis V1. The arrangement of the reduction mechanism 72 allows for a reduction in the width direction K of the liquid dispensing device 63 when it is connected to the tank 62. On the other hand, the dimension D1 of the reduction mechanism 72 in the radial direction R1 is greater than the dimension D2 of the tank 62 in the width direction K. Therefore, compared to the case where the radial direction R1 of the reduction mechanism 72 is arranged in the width direction K, the width direction K of the configuration in which the liquid dispensing device 63 is connected to the tank 62 can be reduced, and the pitch between the tanks 62 can be reduced. This small-pitch arrangement makes it possible to arrange, for example, three tanks 62 in the limited space above the outer tank 3 (Figure 2) without compromising the volume of each tank 62.

[0058] The power unit 71 and the reduction mechanism 72 will be described in more detail. As shown in Figure 12A, the power unit 71 has a coil 71A, a magnet 71B, and a connector terminal 71C. When a voltage is applied to the connector terminal 71C, current flows in the coil 71A. The current causes the coil 71A to generate a magnetic field around it. The magnet 71B receives the magnetic field generated by the coil 71A, generating torque and rotating around the rotation axis V1. The rotation of the magnet 71B is transmitted to the reduction mechanism 72.

[0059] The reduction mechanism 72 is composed of multiple reduction gears 102. Since one reduction gear 102 is engaged with the magnet 71B, the rotation of the magnet 71B is transmitted to the output shaft V2 via the reduction gear 102. Meanwhile, the rotation of the output shaft V2 is converted into vertical motion via the eccentric cam 89 and transmitted to the pump mechanism 73.

[0060] By providing the reduction gear mechanism 72, a general-purpose power unit 71 can be applied to the liquid dispensing device 63, thereby reducing the cost of the automatic dispensing unit 6.

[0061] Furthermore, the power unit 71 and the reduction mechanism 72 may be collectively referred to as the motor 70.

[0062] The pump mechanism 73 will now be described in more detail. As shown in Figure 12A, the pump mechanism 73 has a piston 83, a cylinder 84, an inlet passage 85, and an outlet passage 86. The piston 83 is connected to the output shaft V2 of the reduction mechanism 72 and is a member that reciprocates in the vertical direction as the output shaft V2 rotates. The cylinder 84 is a member that houses the piston 83 and forms a space from which the liquid is drawn up. The inlet passage 85 is a passage that connects the tank 62 and the lower end of the cylinder 84 in order to draw up the liquid from the tank 62 through the liquid inlet 91. The liquid inlet 91 is inserted into the connection part 76 of the tank 62. The outlet passage 86 is a passage that connects the lower end of the cylinder 84 and the liquid discharge passage 64 in order to discharge the liquid in the cylinder 84 to the liquid discharge passage 64.

[0063] Figure 12B is a perspective view of the cylinder 84 and the reduction mechanism 72. Figure 12C is a side view of the cylinder 84.

[0064] As shown in Figure 12B, the cylinder 84 is integrally formed with a bracket 92 for attaching the power unit 71 and the reduction mechanism 72 (i.e., motor 70) to the cylinder 84. The bracket 92 forms a mounting guide 92A and screw holes 92B. The mounting guide 92A is inserted into a guide hole 72A formed in the reduction mechanism 72 to position the reduction mechanism 72. Screws are inserted into the screw holes 92B facing the screw holes 72B formed in the reduction mechanism 72 to fix the cylinder 84 and the reduction mechanism 72. There are two mounting guides 92A and two screw holes 92B, each formed at positions opposite each other in the radial direction of the reduction mechanism 72.

[0065] As shown in Figure 12C, the cylinder 84 forms a gap 84A between itself and the bracket 92 along the range Z1 in which the piston 83 (Figure 12A) slides up and down. Therefore, the cylinder 84 has a uniform thickness in the range Z1 in which the piston 83 slides. This structure suppresses shrinkage during resin molding. Thus, the dimensional accuracy required in the cylinder 84 to achieve sealing performance of the piston 83 can be ensured in the range Z1.

[0066] Returning to Figure 12A, the motor 70 is mounted on the bracket 92 (Figure 12C) with the power unit 71 positioned away from the inlet passage 85 relative to the output shaft V2. Therefore, the reduction mechanism 72 protrudes significantly away from the inlet passage 85 than the central axis of the cylinder 84, allowing the tank 62 and cylinder 84 to be positioned closer together. Furthermore, interference between electronic components such as connectors included in the power unit 71 and the passage can be suppressed.

[0067] [Operation] With the above configuration, an example of the operation of the automatic dispensing unit 6 will now be explained with reference to Figures 12A and 13A to 13C. Figures 13A and 13B are top views of case 61 showing the flow of water. Figure 13C is a perspective view of case 61 showing the flow of water and liquid agents S1 and S2.

[0068] The automatic dispensing unit 6 operates during the washing and rinsing cycles of the washing machine 1. The operation of the automatic dispensing unit 6 is controlled by the control unit. The control unit controls, for example, the opening and closing of the water supply solenoid valve 66, as well as the type of liquid agent to be dispensed, the amount dispensed, and the timing of the dispensed agent.

[0069] As shown in Figures 13A to 13C, during the washing and rinsing processes, the automatic dispensing unit 6 supplies water and liquid agent to the outer tank 3.

[0070] Here, we will explain the water flow in more detail. Water is supplied from the water supply solenoid valve 66 through the paths shown by arrows X1 to X3. The paths reach the outer tank 3 via the supply channel 67 and case 61 from the water supply solenoid valve 66.

[0071] As shown in Figure 13A, in the washing process, the first solenoid valve (not shown) of the water supply solenoid valve 66 is opened to perform automatic or manual dispensing of detergent. In this state, water flows from the water supply solenoid valve 66, branching into the paths indicated by arrows X1 and X2 in the supply channel 67.

[0072] The water flowing along arrow X1 flows into case 61 through an opening 94 formed above the rear surface 90 of tank 62. The water flowing along arrow X2 passes through an opening 95 formed near the manual dispensing section 65 and flows downward toward case 61 through a water inlet opening 96 formed in the manual dispensing section 65, together with the manually dispensed detergent.

[0073] As shown in Figure 13B, the water flowing into case 61 along arrow X1 further branches into two paths indicated by arrows X11 and X12. The water flowing along arrow X11 flows from case 61 into the liquid discharge channel 64 (not shown) via the first case connection port 78. The water flows along the inclined liquid discharge channel 64 with gravity and flows into the input channel 82 of case 61 from the second case connection port 79. The water flowing along arrow X12 flows along the inner bottom surface of case 61, passing sequentially under the tips of the three liquid input devices 63. This flow allows for the washing away of liquid that has leaked out and adhered to the inner bottom surface of case 61 due to the attachment and detachment of tank 62. The water flowing along arrow X12 merges with the water flowing along arrow X11 in the input channel 82. The water flowing into case 61 along arrow X2 flows through the input channel 82 toward the connection channel 8. The water flowing along arrow X2 merges with the water flowing along arrows X11 and X12 in the input channel 82.

[0074] As shown in Figure 13C, the water flowing through the input channel 82 flows into the outer tank 3 from the liquid outlet 81 through the connecting channel 8 (Figure 13B).

[0075] Returning to Figure 13A, in order to manually add fabric softener during the rinsing process, the second solenoid valve (not shown) of the water supply solenoid valve 66 is opened. In this state, water flows in the supply channel 67 along the path indicated by arrow X3. The water flowing along arrow X3 passes through the opening 97 formed near the manual input section 65 and flows into the case 61 from the manual input section 65 along with the manually added fabric softener.

[0076] As shown in Figure 13B, water flowing into case 61 along arrow X3 flows along the inner bottom surface B4 of case 61 toward the input channel 82. The inner bottom surface B4 is formed in front of the inner bottom surfaces B1 to B3 that are formed directly below the tank 62, and is inclined downward along the direction from inner bottom surface B1 to inner bottom surface B3. Due to the inclination, water flows along the inner bottom surface B4 toward gravity. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 13C, the water flows from the liquid outlet 81 toward the outer tank 3 through the connecting channel 8 (Figure 13B).

[0077] Next, the flow of the automatically dispensed liquid will be explained in more detail. The operation of the control unit during the washing process drives the liquid dispensing device 63C (Figure 9), which is connected to the tank 62C (Figure 9) containing the detergent. As shown in Figure 12A, the power unit 71 in the liquid dispensing device 63C rotates, and the rotation of the power unit 71 is reduced via the reduction mechanism 72 and transmitted to the piston 83 of the pump mechanism 73. When the piston 83 rises from its bottom dead center, the detergent S1 in the tank 62C is drawn up to the cylinder 84 through the inlet passage 85. When the piston 83 reaches its top dead center and begins to descend, the detergent S1 in the cylinder 84 is discharged to the liquid discharge passage 64 through the outlet passage 86.

[0078] As shown in Figure 13C, the detergent S1 flows along gravity through the inclined liquid discharge channel 64. The detergent S1 may merge with water flowing along arrow X11 in the liquid discharge channel 64. The detergent S1 flows from the second case connection port 79 into the input channel 82 of case 61, is guided to the liquid outlet 81 by the inclination of the input channel 82, and flows into the outer tank 3 via the connection channel 8.

[0079] Furthermore, the liquid dispenser to be dispensed into the outer tub 3 is determined based on the selected operating course and / or user selection. If delicate laundry washing is selected as the operating course, a neutral detergent may be dispensed into the outer tub 3. In this case, the liquid dispenser 63A of the tank 62A containing the neutral detergent is activated instead of the liquid dispenser 63C of the tank 62C containing the detergent S1.

[0080] The operation of the control unit during the rinsing process drives the liquid dispensing device 63B for the tank 62B containing the fabric softener S2.

[0081] As the washing and rinsing processes are repeated, the amount of liquid contained in the tank 62 decreases. The user of the washing machine 1 can replenish the liquid in the tank 62. When the tank 62 is placed in the case 61, the liquid can be replenished by opening the small lid 88A, as shown in Figure 9. On the other hand, when the tank 62 is removed from the case 61, the liquid can be replenished by removing the lid 88 or by opening the small lid 88A.

[0082] To summarize the above explanation, the features of this disclosure are described below.

[0083] In the washing machine 1 according to this embodiment, the liquid dispensing device 63 and the tank 62 are arranged so that the radial direction R1 and the width direction K of the reduction gear mechanism 72 are perpendicular to each other. With this configuration, firstly, the width direction K dimension of the liquid dispensing device 63 can be reduced, making it possible to arrange the tanks 62 at small intervals. As a result, space saving of the automatic dispensing unit 6 in the width direction K is achieved, and it becomes possible to provide three tanks 62 in the limited space of the housing 2. Secondly, it becomes possible to provide an individual liquid dispensing device 63 for each tank 62. Compared to the case where multiple tanks 62 share one liquid dispensing device 63, when connecting a liquid dispensing device 63 to one tank 62, the constraints on the arrangement of the liquid dispensing device 63 due to its relationship with other tanks 62 are suppressed. As a result, it becomes possible to arrange the tanks 62 and the liquid dispensing devices 63 in close proximity. Therefore, pressure loss in the path between the tanks 62 and the liquid dispensing devices 63 can be suppressed. Furthermore, by keeping the distance between the tank 62 and the liquid dispensing device 63 constant, variations in pressure loss between the tank 62 and the liquid dispensing device 63 can be suppressed. Therefore, the efficiency and stability of liquid dispensing by the liquid dispensing device 63 can be improved.

[0084] Furthermore, to further increase the volume of the tank 62, the depths L1, L2, and L3 of the tank 62 are increased on the outside K1. This configuration allows the total volume of the tank 62 inside the case 61 to be increased. Therefore, the number of times the user needs to refill the tank 62 is reduced. Also, the liquid can be stored in an appropriate volume according to the frequency of liquid use. Thus, the usability of the automatic dispensing unit 6 is improved. As described above, the washing machine 1 according to this embodiment can improve the functionality of the automatic dispensing unit 6.

[0085] [Effect 1] The washing machine 1 according to Embodiment 1 can achieve the following effects.

[0086] As described above, the washing machine 1 of this embodiment comprises an outer tub 3, at least two tanks 62, and at least two liquid dispensing devices 63 (automatic liquid dispensing devices). The outer tub 3 is elastically supported within the housing 2. The at least two tanks 62 contain the liquid supplied to the outer tub 3 and are arranged along the width direction K (first direction). The at least two liquid dispensing devices 63 are connected to connection portions 76 formed in each tank 62 and are arranged along the width direction K. Each liquid dispensing device 63 has a power unit 71, a reduction mechanism 72 engaged with the power unit 71, and a pump mechanism 73 connected to the output shaft of the reduction mechanism 72. The radial direction R1 of the reduction mechanism 72 is substantially perpendicular to the width direction K.

[0087] This configuration allows for a reduction in the width K dimension of the two liquid dispensing devices 63, enabling the tanks 62 to be placed closer together. This results in space savings for the automatic dispensing unit 6 in the width K dimension. Furthermore, since each tank 62 has its own individual liquid dispensing device 63, it is possible to place the tanks 62 and the liquid dispensing devices 63 closer together compared to a configuration where the tanks 62 share a single liquid dispensing device. This reduces pressure loss between the tanks 62 and the liquid dispensing devices 63, improving the efficiency and stability of liquid dispensing by the liquid dispensing devices 63. Consequently, the functionality of the automatic dispensing unit 6 can be improved.

[0088] Furthermore, the washing machine 1 of this embodiment is provided with three tanks 62 and three liquid dispensing devices 63.

[0089] This configuration makes it possible to reduce the width dimension K of the liquid dispensing device 63, so that even in a limited space, three tanks 62, each with its own individual liquid dispensing device 63, can be provided.

[0090] Furthermore, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the connection portion 76 formed on the tank 62 is formed on the back surface 90 of the tank 62.

[0091] With this configuration, the liquid dispensing device 63 is positioned opposite the rear surface 90 of the tank 62 that forms the connection section 76. By positioning the liquid dispensing device 63, which includes the pump mechanism 73, directly behind the rear surface 90 of the tank 62, it becomes possible to arrange the tanks 62 and the pump mechanism 73 at equal distances. This suppresses pressure loss from the liquid dispensing device 63, allowing for the dispensing of a predetermined amount of liquid with greater precision. Furthermore, by shortening the distance between the tank 62 and the liquid dispensing device 63, the torque required in the power unit 71 can be reduced. As a result, a power unit 71 with a smaller width K dimension can be adopted. This enables space saving and cost reduction in the width K dimension of the power unit 71.

[0092] Furthermore, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, when the tanks 62 are installed, the connection portions 76 formed on each tank 62 are arranged at different heights.

[0093] This configuration allows for the placement of the liquid injection device 63 connected to the connection section 76 at different heights, and the flow path downstream of the liquid injection device 63 (for example, the liquid discharge flow path 64) to be inclined. The inclination of the flow path can promote the flow of fluid.

[0094] Furthermore, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the rotating shaft V1 of the power unit 71 and the output shaft V2 of the reduction mechanism 72 are aligned along the width direction K.

[0095] With this configuration, the radial R1 of the power unit 71 and the reduction mechanism 72 is aligned in a direction perpendicular to the width direction K. Even when the power unit 71 and the reduction mechanism 72 have large dimensions in the radial R1, it is possible to reduce the dimensions of the liquid injection device 63 in the width direction K.

[0096] Furthermore, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the pump mechanism 73 includes a piston 83 connected to the reduction gear mechanism 72 that reciprocates in the vertical direction, and a cylinder 84 that houses the piston 83.

[0097] The system comprises an outer tank 3 elastically supported within a housing 2, at least two tanks 62 that contain the liquid supplied to the outer tank 3 and are arranged along the width direction K (first direction), and at least two liquid dispensing devices 63 (automatic liquid dispensing devices) connected to connection parts 76 formed in each tank 62 and arranged along the width direction K. Each liquid dispensing device 63 has a motor 70 and a pump mechanism 73 driven by the motor 70 to suck and discharge the liquid from the tank 62, and the motor 70 is connected to the pump mechanism 73 from the width direction K.

[0098] This configuration makes it possible to arrange the tanks 62 with a smaller spacing, even when the motor 70 has a large dimension in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which it connects to the pump mechanism 73.

[0099] The system comprises an outer tank 3 elastically supported within a housing 2, at least two tanks 62 that contain the liquid supplied to the outer tank 3 and are arranged along the width direction K (first direction), and at least two liquid dispensing devices 63 (automatic liquid dispensing devices) connected to a connection portion 76 formed in each tank 62 and arranged along the width direction K, wherein the connection portion 76 is formed on a surface including the short side of the tank 62, and each liquid dispensing device 63 is arranged to face the surface including the short side of the tank 62 where the connection portion 76 is formed.

[0100] This configuration allows the liquid dispensing device 63 to be positioned directly behind the side of the tank 62 that includes the shorter side, and enables an arrangement where the distance between each tank 62 and the liquid dispensing device 63 is equal.

[0101] Tank 62 is detachably attached to liquid dispensing device 63 along the front-rear direction M (second direction), and each tank 62 and liquid dispensing device 63 is arranged along the front-rear direction M.

[0102] This configuration allows for the placement of each tank 62 and the liquid dispensing device 63 in close proximity.

[0103] The tank 62 is formed such that the front-to-back direction M is the longitudinal direction.

[0104] This configuration makes it possible to reduce the width dimension K in the tank 62.

[0105] [Effect 2] The washing machine 1 of this embodiment comprises an outer tub 3, a tank 62A (first tank), and a tank 62B (second tank). The outer tub 3 is elastically supported within the housing 2. Tank 62A contains the liquid supplied to the outer tub 3. Tank 62B contains the liquid supplied to the outer tub 3 and is positioned next to tank 62A. The depth of tank 62B is greater than the depth of tank 62A along the outer circumference of the outer tub 3.

[0106] This configuration allows for a larger total volume from the two tanks 62A and 62B. Furthermore, different types of liquids can be stored in different quantities within the housing 2. Therefore, the functionality of the automatic dispensing unit 6 can be improved.

[0107] Furthermore, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the tank 62B is positioned outside K1 relative to the tank 62A (along a first direction away from the central axis V0 passing through the bottom 36 of the outer tub 3).

[0108] This configuration makes it possible to increase the total volume of the two tanks 62A and 62B along the outer circumference of the outer tank 3 which descends to the outside K1.

[0109] Furthermore, the washing machine 1 of this embodiment further comprises a liquid dispensing device 63A (first automatic liquid dispensing device) and a liquid dispensing device 63B (second automatic liquid dispensing device). The liquid dispensing device 63A is connected to a connection part 76A (first connection part) formed in the tank 62A. The liquid dispensing device 63B is connected to a connection part 76B (second connection part) formed in the tank 62B.

[0110] With this configuration, each tank 62 has its own individual liquid dispensing device 63, allowing for a configuration where the tanks 62 and the liquid dispensing devices 63 are closer together compared to a case where the tanks 62 share a single liquid dispensing device. This suppresses pressure loss between the tanks 62 and the liquid dispensing devices 63, enabling the dispensing of a predetermined amount of liquid with greater precision.

[0111] Furthermore, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, the depth of the connection portion 76B is greater than the depth of the connection portion 76A.

[0112] This configuration allows for increased volume in tank 62B while promoting the discharge of the liquid agent. Furthermore, it enables a configuration in which the downstream flow path (for example, the liquid agent discharge flow path 64) of tanks 62A and 62B is inclined.

[0113] Furthermore, in the washing machine 1 of this embodiment, tank 62A and tank 62B each have a lid that has a common shape and covers the upper part of each.

[0114] This configuration allows the lid 88 to be interchangeable between tank 62A and tank 62B, thereby improving the usability of tanks 62A and 62B.

[0115] Furthermore, the washing machine 1 of this embodiment further includes a tank 62C (third tank) and a liquid dispensing device 63C (third automatic liquid dispensing device). Tank 62C contains the liquid and is located on the opposite side of tank 62A from tank 62B. The liquid dispensing device 63C is connected to a connection part 76C (third connection part) formed in tank 62C. The depth of tank 62C is greater than the depth of tank 62B.

[0116] This configuration allows for an even greater total volume from the three tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C.

[0117] The device comprises an outer tank 3 elastically supported within a housing 2, a tank 62A (first tank) for containing liquid supplied to the outer tank 3, a tank 62C (second tank) for containing liquid supplied to the outer tank 3 and positioned relative to tank 62A along a width direction K (first direction) away from the central axis V0 passing through the bottom of the outer tank 3, a case 61 housing tanks 62A and 62C, and a water supply solenoid valve 66 (water injection section) for supplying water to the case 61. The case 61 includes a region P1 (first region) housing tank 62A and a region P3 (second region) housing tank 62C, the depth of region P3 being greater than the depth of region P1, and an injection channel 82 formed on the inner bottom surface B3 of region P3 through which water injected from the water injection section flows down.

[0118] This configuration allows for the formation of an input channel 82 and makes effective use of the space directly below the tank 62C.

[0119] The gap between the input channel 82 and the bottom surface of tank 62C is larger than the gap between the inner bottom surface B1 of region P1 and the bottom surface of tank 62A.

[0120] With this configuration, it is easy to form the inlet channel 82 even when the depth L3 of tank 62C is greater than the depth L1 of tank 62A.

[0121] Upstream of the input channel 82, there is a manual input section 65 for receiving the manually inputted liquid, and the water supply solenoid valve 66 supplies water to the manual input section 65.

[0122] This configuration allows the liquid agent to be dispensed automatically or manually. Furthermore, by supplying water to the manual dispensing section 65, the residue of the liquid agent in the manual dispensing section 65 can be suppressed.

[0123] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various other forms.

[0124] In this embodiment, the case in which the automatic dispensing unit 6 has three tanks 62 has been described, but it is not limited to this case. The automatic dispensing unit 6 may have two tanks 62 or four or more tanks 62.

[0125] In this embodiment, an example in which the tank 62 is arranged along the width direction K has been described, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, if the outer tank 3 is elastically supported so as to be tilted downward toward the rear M2 with respect to the mounting surface of the housing 2, the tank 62 may be arranged along the front-rear direction M. In other words, the tank 62B may be arranged along the central axis V0 passing through the bottom 36 of the outer tank 3 relative to the tank 62A. In this case, the stepped arrangement of the tanks 62 becomes lower toward the rear M2, and the liquid discharge channel 64 is tilted downward toward the rear M2. This configuration also makes it possible to increase the total volume of the tanks 62.

[0126] In this embodiment, an example was described in which the depths L1, L2, and L3 of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C change in a stepped manner outward K1 along the width direction K, but the embodiment is not limited to this. It is sufficient that the depths of tanks 62B and 62C are greater than the depth of tank 62A. For example, the depths of tank 62B and tank 62C may be equal. On the other hand, if the depths of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C are different, it is possible to prevent errors in the mounting position of tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C in case 61.

[0127] In this embodiment, we have described an example in which the direction in which the pump mechanism 73 extends (vertical direction), that is, the direction in which the piston 83 moves, is aligned in the three liquid dispensing devices 63, but we are not limited to this. For example, the direction in which any pump mechanism 73 extends may be the front-to-back direction M. On the other hand, if the directions in which the pump mechanisms 73 extend are aligned, the power unit 71 can be placed in the gap between adjacent pistons 83, making effective use of space.

[0128] The motor 70 may be attached to the pump mechanism 73 from the central side K2 or from the outer side K1. Furthermore, a mixture of motors 70 attached from the outer side K1 and motors 70 attached from the central side K2 may be present.

[0129] In this embodiment, the connection direction between the tank 62 and the liquid dispensing device 63 was described as the front-to-back direction M, but this is not the only option. For example, as shown in Modification 1 below, the connection direction between the tank 62 and the liquid dispensing device 63 may be along the up-and-down direction.

[0130] [Example 1] Figure 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the automatic dispensing unit 106 according to Modification 1. As shown in Figure 14, Modification 1 differs from the automatic dispensing unit 6 of the embodiment in that the tank 162 is removed from the case 161 in the vertical direction (Z direction). In order to remove the tank 162 in the vertical direction, the connection part 176 that connects to the liquid dispensing device 163 is formed on the bottom surface of the tank 162. Even with this configuration, the radial direction R1 of the reduction mechanism 72 is orthogonal to the width direction K, thereby enabling a small-pitch arrangement of the tanks 62 and improving the functionality of the automatic dispensing unit 6. In addition, the cylinder 184 extends along the horizontal direction (X direction), and the piston 183 moves along the horizontal direction. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress an increase in the vertical dimensions of the automatic dispensing unit 106.

[0131] In this embodiment, an example was described in which the liquid injection device 63 is connected to the liquid discharge channel 64 on the outlet side, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in Modification 2 below, the liquid injection device 63 may be connected to the case 61 directly below the tank 62 on the outlet side.

[0132] [Differentiation 2] Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the automatic dispensing unit 206 according to Modification 2. As shown in Figure 15, Modification 2 differs from the automatic dispensing unit 6 of the embodiment in that the liquid dispensing device 263 is directly connected to the case 261 on the outlet side. Even with this configuration, the radial direction R1 of the reduction mechanism 72 is orthogonal to the width direction K, enabling a small-pitch arrangement of the tanks 62 and improved functionality of the automatic dispensing unit 6. In addition, instead of providing the liquid discharge channel 64 of the embodiment, the inner bottom surface B200 directly below the tank 262 in the case 261 forms the liquid discharge channel 264. This configuration simplifies the structure of the automatic dispensing unit 206, reducing the number of parts and manufacturing costs.

[0133] While this disclosure is adequately described in relation to preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various modifications and alterations will be obvious to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and alterations should be understood to be included within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. [Industrial applicability]

[0134] The washing machine of this disclosure is useful as a household washing machine, a commercial washing machine, or any type of washer-dryer (e.g., a household drum-type washing machine) because it can improve the functionality of the configuration related to liquid dispensing. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 1. Washing machine 2 cabinets 3 Outer tank 4 Inner tank 5 Drive Unit 6. Automatic feeding unit 8 Connection Channels 10 Water inlet 11 Drain valve 61 cases 62 tanks 63 Liquid dispensing device 64 Liquid Dispensing Channel 65 Manual input section 66 Water supply solenoid valve 71 Power section 72 Reduction mechanism 73 Pump mechanism 76 Connection part Connection ports 77, 78, 79 83 Pistons 84 cylinders K Width direction M Anteroposterior direction

Claims

1. An automatic liquid dispensing device for a washing machine equipped with a tank for containing liquid, A motor having a power unit that rotates around a rotation axis, A pump mechanism connected to the motor's output shaft, which is spaced radially from the motor's rotating shaft and extends parallel to the rotating shaft, Equipped with, The aforementioned pump mechanism is A piston connected to the output shaft of the motor, A cylinder housing the piston, A bracket on which the motor is attached, It has, The aforementioned pump mechanism is A liquid inlet for introducing the liquid into the pump mechanism, Extending parallel to the radial direction of the motor, connecting the liquid inlet and the cylinder, and having an inlet passage through which the liquid flowing into the cylinder passes, An outlet passage through which the liquid discharged from the cylinder passes, It further possesses, When viewed from the direction in which the output shaft extends, the motor is mounted on the bracket such that, in the direction in which the inlet passage extends, the rotating shaft is further away from the inlet passage than the output shaft. Automatic detergent dispenser for washing machines.

2. The inlet passage extends in a direction different from the direction of motion of the piston within the cylinder. The automatic liquid dispensing device for a washing machine according to claim 1.

3. The motor has connector terminals that protrude radially from the motor, The connector terminal protrudes from the cylinder in the direction opposite to the direction in which the inlet passage extends. An automatic liquid dispensing device for a washing machine according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The inlet channel and the outlet channel are arranged vertically. An automatic liquid dispensing device for a washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. An automatic liquid dispenser for a washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A tank for containing the liquid agent, Equipped with, The automatic liquid dispensing device is connected to a connection part provided in the tank. washing machine.

6. The automatic liquid dispensing device is connected horizontally to the tank. The washing machine according to claim 5.

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