Water supply device and washing system

Abstract

Provided is a water supply device comprising a water delivery device, a start event detection unit, and a control unit. The water delivery device delivers water from a water storage part in which water is stored to a washing machine. The start event detection unit detects a water supply start event that occurs in the washing machine. The control unit operates the water delivery device when the water supply start event is detected by the start event detection unit.

Description

Water supply equipment, washing systems

[0001] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-186228, filed on October 31, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Generally, a washing machine is connected to a water tap by a hose or the like, and water is supplied from the water tap. It is also known that the washing machine filters water discharged from a washing tub and returns the filtered water to the washing tub (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-215481

[0004] For example, there is a demand for a washing machine that can be used suitably even in an environment where there is no water supply facility.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to enable a washing machine to be used suitably even in an environment where there is no water facility.

[0006] A water supply device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a water discharge device, a start event detection unit, and a control unit. The water discharge device discharges water from a water storage unit to a washing machine. The start event detection unit detects a water supply start event that occurs in the washing machine. The control unit operates the water discharge device when the water supply start event is detected by the start event detection unit.

[0007] A laundry system according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes the water supply device and a washing machine supplied with water from the water supply device.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine can be suitably used even in an environment where there is no water facility.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a washing machine. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a washing system according to a first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control device of a water supply device in the washing system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for water supply control in the water supply device of the washing system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of a washing system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for water supply control in the water supply device of the washing system according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of a washing system according to a third embodiment. FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram of a washing system according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an auxiliary tank unit in the water supply device of the washing system according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram of a washing system according to a fifth embodiment.

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are examples of specific embodiments of the present disclosure and do not limit the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0011] First Embodiment A laundry system 10 according to a first embodiment includes a washing machine 1 and a water supply device 2 (see FIG. 1).

[0012] In the present disclosure, a "washing machine" refers to a general device that performs various processes, such as washing, on items to be washed. Examples of processes for the items to be washed include washing, rinsing, drying, deodorizing, and sterilizing. The items to be washed are not particularly limited. Examples of the items to be washed include cloth products. Specific examples of the items to be washed include clothing such as clothes, hats, and gloves; clothing accessories such as shoes, bags, handkerchiefs, and towels; interior furnishings such as curtains and carpets; bedding such as blankets, towelettes, and futon covers; and toys such as stuffed animals.

[0013] [Washing Machine 1] First, the washing machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0014] The washing machine 1 performs the washing or rinsing using water supplied from the water supply device 2 .

[0015] In the washing process, for example, a detergent may be added to or mixed with the water supplied from the water supply device 2 to the washing machine 1. Examples of the detergent include a detergent such as a surfactant, or alkaline ionized water. The water supply device 2 may directly supply water containing the detergent to the washing machine 1. Alternatively, a detergent supply device may be provided separately from the water supply device 2. In this case, the detergent supply device mixes the detergent with the water supplied from the water supply device 2 to the washing machine 1.

[0016] The washing machine 1 includes a housing 11, a door 12, a washing tub 13, a washing drum 14, a motor 15, a water supply channel 16, and a drain channel 17 (see FIG. 2). The washing machine 1 also includes a washing control device (not shown).

[0017] The housing 11 accommodates each component of the washing machine 1. The housing 11 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. An upper portion of one side of the housing 11 is an inclined surface 11a that faces diagonally upward.

[0018] A main opening 11b is formed in the inclined surface 11a of the housing 11. The main opening 11b is used for putting in and taking out the laundry. The door 12 is rotatably connected to the housing 11 by a hinge (not shown). The door 12 is rotatable between a closed position where the main opening 11b is closed and an open position where the main opening 11b is opened.

[0019] A water inlet 11c is provided at the top of the housing 11. A water outlet 11d is provided at the bottom of the housing 11.

[0020] Washing tub 13 stores water used for washing. Washing tub 13 has opening 13a that communicates with main opening 11b of housing 11. Washing tub 13 also has water supply port 13b and drain port 13c.

[0021] Water supply channel 16 is a water channel that runs from water supply port 11c of housing 11 to water supply port 13b of washing tub 13. Drain channel 17 is a water channel that runs from drain port 13c of washing tub 13 to drain port 11d of housing 11.

[0022] The washing drum 14 is disposed in the washing tub 13. A plurality of water passage holes (not shown) are formed on the circumferential surface of the washing drum 14.

[0023] The laundry is placed in the washing drum 14. The washing drum 14 is cylindrical and has an opening 14a at one end and a bottom at the other end. The laundry is placed into the washing drum 14 through the main opening 11b and the opening 14a of the washing drum 14.

[0024] The water supplied to the water supply passage 16 is supplied into the washing tub 13 through the water supply port 13b, and further into the washing drum 14 through the multiple water holes.

[0025] The water inside washing tub 13 and washing drum 14 is discharged through drain outlet 13c and drain channel 17 to drain outlet 11d.

[0026] The washing drum 14 is supported rotatably around a rotation shaft 15a. The motor 15 rotates the rotation shaft 15a to rotate the washing drum 14.

[0027] The rotation shaft 15a of the washing drum 14 is disposed in a direction inclined with respect to the horizontal direction, so that the washing drum 14 is supported with its opening 14a facing diagonally upward.

[0028] For example, the rotation shaft 15a is disposed at an angle ranging from 5 to 30 degrees with respect to the horizontal direction. The inclination angle of the rotation shaft 15a is determined based on the water-saving effect, cleaning power, the susceptibility to damage to the laundry, the ease of removing the laundry, etc.

[0029] Alternatively, the rotation shaft 15a may be arranged horizontally, in which case the washing drum 14 is supported with the opening 14a of the washing drum 14 facing horizontally.

[0030] The motor 15 rotates the rotation shaft 15a of the washing drum 14. That is, the motor 15 rotates the washing drum 14 via the rotation shaft 15a. The motor 15 is controlled by the washing control device.

[0031] The washing machine 1 performs the washing or rinsing by rotating the washing drum 14 while water is supplied from the water supply device 2.

[0032] Furthermore, the washing machine 1 performs the spin-drying operation by rotating the washing drum 14 without water being supplied from the water supply device 2.

[0033] The washing machine 1 alternately rotates the washing drum 14 in a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction during the washing or rinsing cycle, while continuously rotating the washing drum 14 in the first rotation direction during the spin cycle.

[0034] Washing machine 1 further includes water supply valve 16a and diaphragm valve 16b provided in water supply passage 16, and drain valve 17a provided in drain passage 17. Water supply valve 16a and diaphragm valve 16b open and close water supply passage 16, respectively.

[0035] For example, the water supply valve 16a and the drain valve 17a are each an electromagnetic valve or an electric valve, and are controlled by the laundry control device.

[0036] Diaphragm valve 16b is held closed when water supply valve 16a is closed. On the other hand, when water supply valve 16a is open, diaphragm valve 16b is released from the closed state. Therefore, when the water pressure at water supply port 11c is equal to or higher than the reference pressure, water supply valve 16a is opened, allowing water to flow through water supply passage 16.

[0037] The washing machine 1 further includes a drain filter 17b provided in the drain channel 17. The drain filter 17b captures foreign matter such as lint contained in the water passing through the drain channel 17.

[0038] The washing machine 1 also includes a dryer, an operating device, a display device, etc., all of which are not shown. The dryer dries the wet laundry in the washing drum 14.

[0039] For example, the dryer includes a heater, a fan, and a heat exchanger. The heater heats air. The fan circulates the heated air in a circulation air path that passes through the washing drum 14. The heat exchanger cools and dries the air that has passed through the washing drum 14.

[0040] The operating device is a device that detects human operations. For example, the operating device may include operation keys or a touch panel. The display device is a device that displays various types of information. For example, the display unit may include a plurality of segment LEDs or a panel display.

[0041] By connecting the washing machine 1 to the water supply device 2, the washing machine 1 can be used in places where there is no water tap. The water supply device 2 includes a water delivery device 22x (see FIG. 2) that delivers water from a water storage unit to the washing machine 1. In this embodiment, the water delivery device 22x includes a first pump 22b (see FIG. 2).

[0042] In the example shown in Figure 2, the water storage unit is a main tank 21. Note that a water tank, a pond, a river, or the like may also be used as the water storage unit.

[0043] In the water supply device 2, in order to reduce the energy consumption of the water delivery device 22x, it is desirable to automatically operate the water delivery device 22x at a timing when water supply to the washing machine 1 is required.

[0044] For example, in order to obtain a control signal from the washing machine 1, it is conceivable to perform processing such as adding a branch line to the signal line of the washing machine 1. However, it is desirable to be able to control the water delivery device 22x according to the state of the washing machine 1 without requiring any special processing on the washing machine 1.

[0045] In the washing system 10, the water supply device 2 has a configuration for automatically operating the water sending device 22x when water needs to be supplied to the washing machine 1, without requiring any special processing on the washing machine 1. The configuration will be described below.

[0046] [Configuration of Water Supply Device 2] The water supply device 2 supplies water to the washing tub 13 and the washing drum 14 of the washing machine 1.

[0047] 2, the water supply device 2 includes a main tank 21, a first water passage 22, and a second water passage 23. The water supply device 2 also includes a control device 8.

[0048] The first water passage 22 is connected to the water supply port 11c of the washing machine 1 (see FIG. 1). The second water passage 23 is connected to the water drain port 11d of the washing machine 1 (see FIG. 1).

[0049] The main tank 21 stores water to be supplied to the washing tub 13 and the washing drum 14 of the washing machine 1. The main tank 21 stores water to be used by the washing machine 1 for the washing and rinsing processes.

[0050] For example, purified water such as tap water is stored in the main tank 21. The main tank 21 has a water inlet 21a and a water outlet 21b (see FIG. 2).

[0051] First water passage 22 is a water passage that runs from water outlet 21b of main tank 21 to water supply port 11c of washing machine 1. Second water passage 23 is a water passage that runs from drain outlet 11d of washing machine 1 to water inlet 21a of main tank 21. For example, each of first water passage 22 and second water passage 23 is a tubular member such as a hose or pipe made of synthetic resin.

[0052] The water supply device 2 further includes a water outlet valve 22a, a first pump 22b, and an ionization unit 22c, each of which is provided in the first water passage 22 (see FIG. 2). The water supply device 2 further includes a second pump 23a, a neutralization unit 23b, and a purification filter 23c, each of which is provided in the second water passage 23 (see FIG. 2).

[0053] The water outlet valve 22a is an electromagnetic valve or an electric valve and opens and closes the first water passage 22. When the water outlet valve 22a is open, the first pump 22b causes the water in the main tank 21 to flow through the first water passage 22 to the washing machine 1.

[0054] The water outlet valve 22a and the first pump 22b constitute a water delivery device 22x that delivers water from the water storage portion to the washing machine 1. In this embodiment, the main tank 21 is the water storage portion.

[0055] In the following description, the operation of the water delivery device 22x means that the water outlet valve 22a is open and the first pump 22b is operating, and the stop of the operation of the water delivery device 22x means that the water outlet valve 22a is closed and the first pump 22b is stopped.

[0056] When the washing or rinsing is performed, the water-delivery device 22x operates, whereas the spin-drying is performed while the water-delivery device 22x is stopped.

[0057] When the washing cycle is performed, the ionization unit 22c ionizes the water in the first water passage 22 into alkaline ionized water. The alkaline ionized water is supplied to the washing machine 1 from the first water passage 22.

[0058] On the other hand, when the rinsing is performed, the ionization unit 22c does not ionize the water in the first water passage 22. For example, the ionization unit 22c ionizes the water in the first water passage 22 into alkaline ionized water by supplying a predetermined amount of undiluted alkaline ionized water into the inside of the first water passage 22.

[0059] The second pump 23 a causes the water discharged from the drain outlet 11 d of the washing machine 1 to flow through the second water passage 23 into the main tank 21 .

[0060] The neutralization unit 23b neutralizes the alkaline ionized water after it has been used for the washing. When the washing is performed, the neutralization unit 23b neutralizes the alkaline ionized water, and the neutralized water flows into the main tank 21 through the second water passage 23.

[0061] On the other hand, when the rinsing is performed, the neutralization unit 23b does not perform a process of neutralizing the water in the second water passage 23.

[0062] For example, the neutralization unit 23b neutralizes the alkaline ionized water by supplying a predetermined amount of acidic water into the second water passage 23.

[0063] The purification filter 23c removes foreign matter from the water discharged from the washing machine 1. The minimum size of foreign matter that can be captured by the purification filter 23c is smaller than that of the drain filter 17b.

[0064] For example, the purification filter 23c may include one or more of an activated carbon filter, a hollow fiber membrane filter, a ceramic filter, a reverse osmosis membrane filter, and an ion exchange resin filter. The purification filter 23c may further include a nonwoven fabric filter or a mesh filter. The check valve 23d prevents water in the main tank 21 from flowing back into the second water passage 23.

[0065] The control device 8 controls the electrical devices in the water supply device 2. Specifically, the control device 8 controls the water delivery device 22x, the ionization unit 22c, the second pump 23a, and the neutralization unit 23b. The control device 8 is provided separately from the washing control device of the washing machine 1.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 3, the control device 8 includes a user interface device 80, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 81, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 82, a secondary storage device 83, and a signal interface 84.

[0067] The user interface device 80 includes an operation unit 80a and a display unit 80b. The operation unit 80a is a device that detects human operations. For example, the operation unit 80a includes operation keys or a touch panel. The display unit 80b is a device that displays various types of information. For example, the display unit 80b includes a plurality of segment LEDs or a panel display.

[0068] The secondary storage device 83 is a computer-readable, non-volatile storage device. The secondary storage device 83 can store and update the computer programs and various data. For example, a flash memory or an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) may be used as the secondary storage device 83.

[0069] The signal interface 84 converts signals output by various sensors into digital data and transmits the converted digital data to the CPU 81. Furthermore, the signal interface 84 converts control commands output by the CPU 81 into control signals and transmits the control signals to the devices to be controlled.

[0070] The CPU 81 is a processor that executes computer programs to perform various data processing and control operations. The RAM 82 is a computer-readable volatile storage device. The RAM 82 temporarily stores the computer programs executed by the CPU 81 and data output and referenced in the course of the CPU 81 performing various processes.

[0071] The CPU 81 includes a plurality of processing modules that are realized by executing the computer program, including a main control unit 8a, a water supply control unit 8b, and a drainage control unit 8c.

[0072] The main control unit 8a executes control to start various processes in response to operations on the operation unit 80a, and control of the display unit 80b.

[0073] Water supply control unit 8b controls water delivery device 22x to control whether water is supplied to washing machine 1. Furthermore, water supply control unit 8b controls ionization unit 22c to control whether alkaline ionized water or non-ionized water is supplied to washing machine 1.

[0074] Drainage control unit 8c controls second pump 23a to control whether or not water discharged from washing machine 1 is circulated to main tank 21. Furthermore, drainage control unit 8c controls neutralization unit 23b to control whether or not water discharged from washing machine 1 is neutralized.

[0075] The water supply device 2 further includes an auxiliary tank 3, a water flow sensor 31, and a water level sensor 32 (see FIG. 2).

[0076] The auxiliary tank 3 is disposed at a position higher than the washing tub 13 and the water supply passage 16 of the washing machine 1. The auxiliary tank 3 is disposed in the first water passage 22.

[0077] The auxiliary tank 3 stores the water delivered by the water delivery device 22x and supplies the stored water to the water supply port 11c of the water supply passage 16 of the washing machine 1. That is, the auxiliary tank 3 temporarily stores the water delivered by the water delivery device 22x midway through the first water passage 22.

[0078] The water flow sensor 31 is disposed at the terminal end 220 of the first water passage 22. The terminal end 220 of the first water passage 22 is part of the water path from the main tank 21 to the washing machine 1. The water flow sensor 31 detects the water flow at the terminal end 220 of the first water passage 22.

[0079] The water supply device 2 further includes a water flow sensor 23e disposed in a portion of the second water passage 23 closer to the drain outlet 11d. In this embodiment, the water flow sensor 23e is disposed in a portion of the second water passage 23 between the drain outlet 11d and the second pump 23a. The water flow sensor 23e detects the water flow in the second water passage 23.

[0080] For example, a float-type flow switch, an ultrasonic flow switch, or a vane-operated flow switch may be employed as the water flow sensor 31 and the water flow sensor 23e. Alternatively, a flow sensor such as an impeller-type flow sensor, a thermistor-type flow sensor, or a Karman vortex-type flow sensor may be employed as the water flow sensor 31 and the water flow sensor 23e.

[0081] The auxiliary tank 3 has an inlet 3a, an outlet 3b, an air inlet 3c, and an air vent 3d (see FIG. 2). The air inlet 3c and the air vent 3d are openings that connect the inside and outside of the auxiliary tank 3.

[0082] The inlet 3a and the outlet 3b are connected to the first water passage 22. The water delivered by the water delivery device 22x flows into the auxiliary tank 3 through the inlet 3a. The water in the auxiliary tank 3 flows into the water supply port 11c of the washing machine 1 through the outlet 3b.

[0083] The water supply device 2 further includes a first check valve 22d, a second check valve 33, and an air vent valve 34 (see FIG. 2).

[0084] The first check valve 22d is disposed on the upstream side of the auxiliary tank 3 in the first water passage 22. In this embodiment, the first check valve 22d is disposed in a portion of the first water passage 22 between the ionization unit 22c and the auxiliary tank 3.

[0085] The first check valve 22d prevents the flow of water and air from the auxiliary tank 3 toward the main tank 21. The first check valve 22d is an example of a check valve disposed in the water path from the main tank 21, which serves as the water storage section, to the auxiliary tank 3.

[0086] The second check valve 33 is connected to the air inlet 3c and prevents water and air from flowing from the auxiliary tank 3 to the outside of the air inlet 3c.

[0087] The air vent valve 34 is a solenoid valve or an electric valve that opens and closes the air vent port 3d. The water supply control unit 8b of the control device 8 controls the air vent valve 34. By closing the air vent port 3d, the air vent valve 34 prevents air and water from flowing out of or into the auxiliary tank 3 through the air vent port 3d.

[0088] The water level sensor 32 detects whether the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 is equal to or greater than a predetermined full water level or less than the full water level. For example, a float-type water level gauge, a capacitance-type water level gauge, a radio wave-type water level gauge, an ultrasonic-type water level gauge, or the like may be used as the water level sensor 32.

[0089] When the operation unit 80a detects a process start operation, the water supply control unit 8b executes water supply control.

[0090] [Water Supply Control] Hereinafter, an example of the procedure for the water supply control will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0091] In the following description, S1, S2, ... represent identification symbols of a plurality of steps in the water supply control. In the water supply control, the processing of step S1 is executed first.

[0092] <Step S1> In step S1, the water supply control unit 8b executes a preparation process.

[0093] In the preparation process, the water supply control unit 8b determines whether or not a full water state has been detected in the auxiliary tank 3. The full water state is a state in which the water level sensor 32 detects a water level equal to or higher than the full water level.

[0094] If the full water state of the auxiliary tank 3 is not detected, the water supply control unit 8b executes the water filling process until the full water state is detected. The water filling process is a process in which the water delivery device 22x is operated with the air purge valve 34 open. During the water filling process, the water supply control unit 8b does not operate the ionization unit 22c.

[0095] When the water supply control unit 8b detects that the auxiliary tank 3 is full of water, it stops the operation of the water delivery device 22x and closes the air vent valve 34. This ends the water filling process.

[0096] In the preparation process, when the full water state of the auxiliary tank 3 is detected, the water supply control unit 8b sets the water supply system equipment of the water supply device 2 to an initial state. The initial state of the water supply system equipment is a state in which the operation of the water delivery device 22x and the ionization unit 22c is stopped and the air purge valve 34 is closed.

[0097] After performing the process of step S1, the water supply control unit 8b performs the process of step S2.

[0098] <Step S2> In step S2, the water supply control unit 8b waits until a water supply start event occurring in the washing machine 1 is detected.

[0099] The water supply start event is an event in which the washing machine 1 requests water supply. In this embodiment, the water supply start event is the opening of the water supply valve 16a of the washing machine 1.

[0100] When the water supply valve 16a of the washing machine 1 is opened, the water in the auxiliary tank 3 flows by gravity into the terminal end 220 of the first water passage 22 and through the water supply passage 16 of the washing machine 1 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). That is, the water flow in the water path from the auxiliary tank 3 to the washing machine 1 when the water delivery device 22x is not operating is an example of the water supply start event.

[0101] When the water in the auxiliary tank 3 flows through the terminal end 220 of the first water passage 22, air flows into the auxiliary tank 3 through the air inlet 3c. This allows the water in the auxiliary tank 3 to smoothly flow out to the washing machine 1 without creating a negative pressure inside the auxiliary tank 3.

[0102] In this embodiment, the water flow sensor 31 detects the water flow in the terminal end 220 of the first water passage 22 when the water delivery device 22x is not operating as the water supply start event. The water flow sensor 31 is an example of a start event detection unit.

[0103] The water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S3 when the water supply start event is detected by the water flow sensor 31.

[0104] <Step S3> In step S3, the water supply control unit 8b determines whether or not the detection of the water supply start event after the start of the water supply control is the first detection.

[0105] The process of step S3 is an example of a process of determining whether the water supply start event detected in step S2 is an event corresponding to the washing or the rinsing.

[0106] The water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S4 when it determines that the detection of the water supply start event is the first detection, whereas the water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S5 when it determines that the detection of the water supply start event is the second or subsequent detection.

[0107] <Step S4> In step S4, the water supply control unit 8b operates the ionization unit 22c. After performing the process of step S4, the water supply control unit 8b performs the process of step S5.

[0108] <Step S5> In step S5, the water supply control unit 8b operates the water delivery device 22x. As a result, water is supplied from the water supply device 2 to the washing machine 1. The processing of steps S4 and S5 is executed when the water flow sensor 31 detects the water supply start event in a situation where the water delivery device 22x is not operating.

[0109] After executing the process of step S5, the water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S6.

[0110] In step S6, the water supply control unit 8b executes an air vent process, which is a process of opening the air vent valve 34 until the water level sensor 32 detects that the auxiliary tank 3 is full of water.

[0111] In the air vent process, the water supply control unit 8b closes the air vent valve 34 when the full water state of the auxiliary tank 3 is detected. After performing the process of step S6, the water supply control unit 8b performs the process of step S7.

[0112] <Step S7> In step S7, the water supply control unit 8b continues the operation of the water delivery device 22x until a water flow stop state is detected. The water flow stop state is a state in which the water flow toward the washing machine 1 in the first water channel 22 is stopped.

[0113] In this embodiment, the water flow stop state is detected by the water flow sensor 31. The water flow sensor 31 is an example of a water flow stop detection unit that detects the water flow stop state.

[0114] The water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S8 when the water flow sensor 31 detects that the water flow has stopped.

[0115] <Step S8> In step S8, the water supply control unit 8b stops the operation of the water discharge device 22x. That is, when the water flow sensor 31 detects the water flow stop state while the water discharge device 22x is operating, the water supply control unit 8b stops the operation of the water discharge device 22x.

[0116] Furthermore, in step S8, the water supply control unit 8b stops the operation of the ionization unit 22c if the ionization unit 22c is operating.

[0117] After executing the process of step S8, the water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S9.

[0118] <Step S9> In step S9, the water supply control section 8b determines whether or not the washing end condition is met.

[0119] For example, the washing end condition is that the number of times the water supply event is detected in step S2 reaches a predetermined target number, which is the sum of the number of times the washing cycle and the number of times the rinsing cycle are performed in the washing machine 1.

[0120] If the water supply control unit 8b determines that the washing end condition is not met, it repeats the processes from step S2 onwards. On the other hand, if the water supply control unit 8b determines that the washing end condition is met, it ends the water supply control.

[0121] [Drainage Control] Next, the drainage control by the drainage control unit 8c will be described. The drainage control is the control of the second pump 23a.

[0122] The drainage control unit 8c operates the second pump 23a when the water flow sensor 23e changes from a state in which it does not detect flowing water in the second water channel 23 to a state in which it detects flowing water while the second pump 23a is not operating.

[0123] On the other hand, the drainage control unit 8c stops the operation of the second pump 23a when the water flow sensor 23e does not detect flowing water in the second water channel 23 for a predetermined reference time while the second pump 23a is operating.

[0124] The water supply device 2 is connected to the washing machine 1 without requiring any special modifications to the washing machine 1. By employing the water supply device 2, the water delivery device 22x can be automatically operated when water needs to be supplied to the washing machine 1, without requiring any special modifications to the washing machine 1. Therefore, the washing machine 1 can be suitably used even in an environment where there is no water facility.

[0125] By stopping the operation of the water delivery device 22x when it is not necessary, it is possible to reduce the energy consumption of the water delivery device 22x.

[0126] Second Embodiment Next, a laundry system 10A according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. In Figures 5 and 6, the same components as those shown in Figures 1 to 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0127] Laundry system 10A is a modified example of laundry system 10. Differences between laundry system 10A and laundry system 10 will be described below.

[0128] 5, laundry system 10A has a configuration in which water supply device 2 of laundry system 10 is replaced with a water supply device 2A. That is, laundry system 10A includes washing machine 1 and water supply device 2A.

[0129] The water supply device 2A has a configuration in which the water flow sensor 31 of the first water passage 22 is removed from the water supply device 2.

[0130] However, the water level sensor 32 of the water supply device 2A can detect whether the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 is below a first reference level, within a reference range from a second reference level to the full water level, or equal to or higher than the full water level. The second reference level is a level lower than the full water level, and the first reference level is a level lower than the second reference level.

[0131] [Water Supply Control] Next, an example of the water supply control in the water supply device 2A will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0132] The water supply control procedure shown in Fig. 6 is a procedure in which step S6 is removed from the water supply control procedure shown in Fig. 4 and step S7a is added. Below, differences between the water supply control procedure shown in Fig. 6 and the water supply control procedure shown in Fig. 4 will be described.

[0133] <Step S2> In step S2 of the present embodiment, the water level sensor 32 detects that the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 has dropped below the first reference level as the water supply start event occurring in the washing machine 1.

[0134] That is, when the water supply valve 16a of the washing machine 1 is opened, the water in the auxiliary tank 3 flows by gravity into the water supply passage 16 of the washing machine 1, and the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 drops (see FIGS. 1 and 5). That is, the drop in the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 when the water delivery device 22x is not operating is an example of the water supply start event.

[0135] In this embodiment, the water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S3 when the water supply start event is detected by the water level sensor 32.

[0136] <Step S5> In step S5 of this embodiment, the water supply control unit 8b operates the water delivery device 22x. After executing the process of step S5, the water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S7.

[0137] In this embodiment, when the water delivery device 22x operates, the air pressure in the auxiliary tank 3 increases and the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 rises from a level below the first reference level to a level between the first reference level and the second reference level.

[0138] <Step S7> In step S7 of this embodiment, the water level sensor 32 detects that the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 has risen from a level below the reference range to a level within the reference range, as the water flow stopped state.

[0139] That is, when the water supply valve 16a of the washing machine 1 is closed while the water delivery device 22x is operating, the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 rises until the air pressure in the auxiliary tank 3 is balanced with the discharge pressure of the first pump 22b. The state in which the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 rises to within the reference range while the water delivery device 22x is operating is an example of the water flow stop state. The water level sensor 32 is an example of a water flow stop detection unit that detects the water flow stop state.

[0140] In this embodiment, the water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S7a when the water level sensor 32 detects that the water flow has stopped.

[0141] <Step S7a> In step S7a, the water supply control unit 8b executes the air removal process in the same manner as in step S6 of Fig. 4. As a result, the water level in the auxiliary tank 3 rises to or above the full water level.

[0142] After executing the process of step S7a, the water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S8. That is, when the water level sensor 32 detects the water flow stop state, the water supply control unit 8b executes the processes of step S7a and step S8.

[0143] When the water supply device 2A is employed, the same effects as when the water supply device 2 is employed can be obtained.

[0144] [Third Embodiment] Next, a laundry system 10B according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. In Fig. 7, the same components as those shown in Figs. 1 to 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0145] The laundry system 10B is a modified example of the laundry system 10A. Differences between the laundry system 10B and the laundry system 10A will be described below.

[0146] 7, laundry system 10B has a configuration in which water supply device 2A of laundry system 10A is replaced with a water supply device 2B. That is, laundry system 10B includes washing machine 1 and water supply device 2B.

[0147] The water supply device 2B has a configuration in which a pressure increasing mechanism 30 is added to the water supply device 2A. The pressure increasing mechanism 30 increases the pressure in the auxiliary tank 3.

[0148] The pressure-increasing mechanism 30 includes an air compressor 35 and an air tank 36. The pressure-increasing mechanism 30 further includes a third check valve 37, an air introduction pipe 38, and the like.

[0149] The air intake pipe 38 is an air passage leading from the air compressor 35 to the second check valve 33. The air compressor 35 generates compressed air.

[0150] The air tank 36 stores the compressed air generated by the air compressor 35. When the pressure in the auxiliary tank 3 is lower than the pressure of the compressed air, the compressed air in the air tank 36 is supplied to the auxiliary tank 3 through the air inlet pipe 38.

[0151] In this embodiment, the second check valve 33 prevents the flow of water and air from the auxiliary tank 3 to the air tank 36 in the compressed air path from the air tank 36 to the auxiliary tank 3 .

[0152] The third check valve 37 prevents air from flowing from the air tank 36 to the air compressor 35 in the air path from the air compressor 35 to the air tank 36 .

[0153] The water pressurized by the compressed air in the auxiliary tank 3 is supplied to the washing machine 1.

[0154] [Water Supply Control] Next, an example of the procedure for the water supply control in this embodiment will be described.

[0155] In this embodiment, the water supply control unit 8b executes the water supply control in accordance with a procedure in which an air filling process is added to the procedure of the water supply control shown in FIG.

[0156] The water supply control unit 8b executes the air filling process when the operation of the water delivery device 22x stops. Specifically, the water supply control unit 8b executes the air filling process between step S8 and step S9 shown in FIG. 6.

[0157] The air filling process is a process of temporarily operating the air compressor 35. For example, the water supply control unit 8b operates the air compressor 35 for a predetermined filling time. The water supply control unit 8b also operates the air compressor 35 until the pressure detected by a pressure gauge provided in the air compressor 35 reaches a predetermined target pressure.

[0158] By carrying out the air filling process, the compressed air is filled into the air tank 36 and the space above the water surface in the auxiliary tank 3.

[0159] In this embodiment, when the water supply valve 16a of the washing machine 1 opens while the water delivery device 22x is not operating, the auxiliary tank 3 discharges water pressurized by the compressed air in the air tank 36 into the washing machine 1.

[0160] As described above, the water supply control unit 8 b controls the air compressor 35 so that the water pressurized by the compressed air in the auxiliary tank 3 is supplied to the washing machine 1 .

[0161] When the water supply device 2B is employed, the same effects as when the water supply devices 2 and 2A are employed can be obtained.

[0162] As described above, in washing machine 1, water supply valve 16a and diaphragm valve 16b are arranged in water supply passage 16. If the water pressure due to gravity of the water in auxiliary tank 3 is less than the operating pressure of diaphragm valve 16b, the water in auxiliary tank 3 will not flow into washing machine 1 even if water supply valve 16a is open.

[0163] By employing water supply device 2B, when water supply valve 16a of washing machine 1 is opened while water delivery device 22x is not operating, water in auxiliary tank 3 reliably flows into washing machine 1. Therefore, in water supply device 2B, it is possible to employ an auxiliary tank 3 of a relatively small size.

[0164] [Modification of Third Embodiment] Next, a modification of the water supply device 2B will be described.

[0165] In this modification, the air inlet pipe 38, air compressor 35, air tank 36, and third check valve 37 of water supply apparatus 2B are applied to water supply apparatus 2. In this modification, the air filling process of water supply apparatus 2B is also applied to the water supply control.

[0166] When this modified example is adopted, the same effects as when the water supply device 2B is adopted can be obtained.

[0167] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, a laundry system 10C according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. In Figures 8 and 9, the same components as those shown in Figures 1 to 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0168] The laundry system 10C is a modified example of the laundry system 10. Differences between the laundry system 10C and the laundry system 10 will be described below.

[0169] 8, laundry system 10C has a configuration in which water supply device 2 of laundry system 10 is replaced with a water supply device 2C. That is, laundry system 10C includes washing machine 1 and water supply device 2C.

[0170] The water supply apparatus 2C has a configuration in which the auxiliary tank 3, the second check valve 33, and the air vent valve 34 of the water supply apparatus 2 are replaced with an auxiliary tank unit 4 (see FIG. 8).

[0171] The auxiliary tank unit 4 includes an auxiliary tank 3X and a restricting member 40 (see FIGS. 8 and 9). The auxiliary tank unit 4 is disposed at a position higher than the washing tub 13 and the water supply passage 16 of the washing machine 1.

[0172] Similar to the auxiliary tank 3, the auxiliary tank 3X stores the water delivered by the water delivery device 22x and supplies the stored water to the water supply passage 16 of the washing machine 1. The auxiliary tank 3X has an inlet 3e forming the inlet 3a, an outlet 3f forming the outlet 3b, and an elastic wall 3g (see FIG. 9 ).

[0173] The elastic wall 3g is expandable and contractable in response to the water pressure in the auxiliary tank 3X. For example, the elastic wall 3g is made of an elastomer material. The elastic wall 3g may be the entire bulkhead of the auxiliary tank 3X or a part of the bulkhead of the auxiliary tank 3X.

[0174] When the water delivery device 22x is operating, the auxiliary tank 3X temporarily stores and discharges water in an expanded state, in which the elastic wall 3g is expanded outward from the auxiliary tank 3X by the water delivery pressure of the water delivery device 22x.

[0175] The restricting member 40 is disposed outside the elastic wall 3g and restricts the extension range of the elastic wall 3g (see FIG. 9). In other words, the restricting member 40 restricts the expansion of the elastic wall 3g beyond a predetermined amount. The shape of the expanded auxiliary tank 3X is determined by the inner shape of the restricting member 40.

[0176] The water supply control unit 8b controls the water discharge device 22x so that the elastic wall 3g is in an expanded state. For example, the water supply control unit 8b stops the operation of the water discharge device 22x when a predetermined time has elapsed since the water supply end event was detected while the water discharge device 22x was in operation. As a result, the elastic wall 3g is maintained in an expanded state until the next water supply start event is detected.

[0177] The above-described control of the water delivery device 22x by the water supply control unit 8b is an example of control for causing the elastic wall 3g to be in an expanded state when water starts to be supplied from the auxiliary tank 3X to the washing machine 1. The elastic wall 3g is also an example of a pressure increasing mechanism for increasing the pressure in the auxiliary tank 3X.

[0178] On the other hand, when the water supply valve 16a of the washing machine 1 is opened while the water delivery device 22x is not operating, the auxiliary tank 3X contracts from the expanded state due to the contraction force of the elastic wall 3g and discharges water. As a result, water pressurized by the contraction force of the elastic wall 3g is supplied to the washing machine 1.

[0179] The elastic wall 3g of the auxiliary tank 3X serves as a substitute for the air compressor 35 and the air tank 36 in the water supply device 2B shown in FIG.

[0180] When the water supply device 2C is employed, the same effects as when the water supply device 2B is employed can be obtained.

[0181] Fifth Embodiment Next, a laundry system 10D according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 10. In Fig. 10, the same components as those shown in Figs. 1 to 9 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0182] The laundry system 10D is a modified example of the laundry system 10. Differences between the laundry system 10D and the laundry system 10 will be described below.

[0183] 10, laundry system 10D has a configuration in which water supply device 2 of laundry system 10 is replaced with a water supply device 2D. That is, laundry system 10D includes washing machine 1 and water supply device 2D.

[0184] Water supply device 2D has a configuration in which auxiliary tank 3, second check valve 33, and air vent valve 34 in water supply device 2 are replaced with a valve operation detection sensor 5. Valve operation detection sensor 5 detects the operation of water supply valve 16a of washing machine 1.

[0185] In this embodiment, the water supply valve 16a is an electromagnetic valve, and the valve operation detection sensor 5 includes a magnetic field sensor.

[0186] In the water supply control step S2, the magnetic field sensor detects a change in the magnetic field caused by the operation of the solenoid valve when the water delivery device 22x is not operating as the water supply start event (see FIG. 4). The valve operation detection sensor 5 including the magnetic field sensor is an example of the start event detection unit that detects the water supply start event.

[0187] The water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S3 when the water supply start event is detected by the valve operation detection sensor 5 in the water supply control step S2 (see FIG. 4).

[0188] Furthermore, in the water supply control step S7, the magnetic field sensor detects the disappearance of the magnetic field generated by the operation of the solenoid valve while the water delivery device 22x is operating as a water supply end event.

[0189] The water supply end event is an event that occurs in the washing machine 1 when water supply from the water supply device 2 is no longer required. In this embodiment, the water supply end event is the closing of the water supply valve 16a. The valve operation detection sensor 5 including the magnetic field sensor is an example of an end event detection unit that detects the water supply end event.

[0190] In the water supply control step S7, the water supply control unit 8b continues the operation of the water supply device 22x while the water supply device 22x is operating until the water supply end event is detected by the valve operation detection sensor 5 (see Figure 4).

[0191] When the water supply end event is detected by the valve operation detection sensor 5 while the water discharge device 22x is operating, the water supply control unit 8b executes the processing of step S8 (see FIG. 4 ), thereby causing the water supply control unit 8b to stop the operation of the water discharge device 22x.

[0192] When the water supply device 2D is employed, the same effects as when the water supply device 2 is employed can be obtained.

[0193] [Modification of Fifth Embodiment] Next, a modification of laundry system 10D shown in Fig. 10 will be described. Differences between this modification and laundry system 10D will be described below.

[0194] In this modification, the valve operation detection sensor 5 includes a vibration sensor. The vibration sensor detects, as the water supply start event, sound or vibration generated by operation of the water supply valve 16a of the washing machine 1 when the water delivery device 22x is not operating. The vibration sensor that detects sound generated by operation of the water supply valve 16a is an acoustic sensor.

[0195] In the water supply control step S2, the magnetic field sensor detects the sound or vibration generated by the opening of the water supply valve 16a when the water delivery device 22x is not operating as the water supply start event (see FIG. 4). The valve operation detection sensor 5 including the vibration sensor is an example of the start event detection unit that detects the water supply start event.

[0196] The water supply control unit 8b executes the process of step S3 when the water supply start event is detected by the valve operation detection sensor 5 in the water supply control step S2 (see FIG. 4).

[0197] Furthermore, in the water supply control step S7, the vibration sensor detects, as the water supply end event, sound or vibration generated by the closing operation of the water supply valve 16a while the water delivery device 22x is operating.

[0198] In this modification, the water supply end event is the closing of the water supply valve 16a. The valve operation detection sensor 5 including the vibration sensor is an example of an end event detection unit that detects the water supply end event.

[0199] In the water supply control step S7, the water supply control unit 8b continues the operation of the water supply device 22x while the water supply device 22x is operating until the water supply end event is detected by the valve operation detection sensor 5 (see Figure 4).

[0200] When the water supply end event is detected by the valve operation detection sensor 5 while the water discharge device 22x is operating, the water supply control unit 8b executes the processing of step S8 (see FIG. 4 ), thereby causing the water supply control unit 8b to stop the operation of the water discharge device 22x.

[0201] When this modified example is adopted, the same effects as when the water supply device 2 is adopted can be obtained.

[0202] The water supply devices 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D may be used in systems other than laundry systems. For example, the water supply devices 2, 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D may be used as devices for supplying water to a bathtub or the like.

[0203] [Supplementary Notes on the Invention] The following is a summary of the invention extracted from the above-described embodiment. Note that the configurations and processing functions described in the following supplementary notes can be selected and combined as desired.

[0204] <Supplementary Note 1> A water supply device comprising: a water delivery device that delivers water from a water storage unit that stores water to a washing machine; a start event detection unit that detects a water supply start event that occurs in the washing machine; and a control unit that operates the water delivery device when the water supply start event is detected by the start event detection unit.

[0205] <Supplementary Note 2> The water supply device according to Supplementary Note 1, further comprising an auxiliary tank disposed at a higher position than the washing machine and provided in a waterway connecting the water delivery device and the washing machine, wherein the start event detection unit includes a sensor that detects the occurrence of a water flow from the auxiliary tank toward the washing machine as the water supply start event.

[0206] <Supplementary Note 3> The water supply device according to Supplementary Note 1, further comprising an auxiliary tank disposed at a higher position than the washing machine and provided in a waterway connecting the water delivery device and the washing machine, wherein the start event detection unit includes a sensor that detects a drop in the water level in the auxiliary tank as the water supply start event.

[0207] <Supplementary Note 4> The water supply device according to Supplementary Note 2 or 3, further comprising a pressure increasing mechanism that increases the pressure in the auxiliary tank.

[0208] <Supplementary Note 5> The water supply device according to Supplementary Note 4, wherein the pressure-increasing mechanism includes an air compressor that generates compressed air, and an air tank that stores the compressed air, and the air tank is configured so that the compressed air in the air tank is supplied into the auxiliary tank when the pressure in the auxiliary tank is lower than the pressure in the air tank.

[0209] <Supplementary Note 6> The water supply device according to Supplementary Note 5, wherein the control unit controls the air compressor so that water pressurized by the compressed air in the auxiliary tank is supplied to the washing machine.

[0210] <Supplementary Note 7> The water supply device according to Supplementary Note 2 or Supplementary Note 3, wherein the auxiliary tank has an elastic wall that can expand and contract in response to water pressure, and the control unit controls the water delivery device so that the elastic wall is in an expanded state.

[0211] <Supplementary Note 8> The water supply device according to Supplementary Note 7, wherein the control unit controls the water delivery device so that the elastic wall is in an expanded state when water starts to be supplied from the auxiliary tank to the washing machine.

[0212] <Supplementary Note 9> The water supply device according to Supplementary Note 7, further comprising a restricting member disposed outside the elastic wall and restricting expansion of the elastic wall beyond a predetermined amount.

[0213] <Supplementary Note 10> The water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the start event detection unit includes a sensor that detects, as the water supply start event, a change in a magnetic field caused by operation of a solenoid valve that opens and closes a water supply passage in the washing machine.

[0214] <Supplementary Note 11> The water supply device according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the start event detection unit includes a sensor that detects, as the water supply start event, sound or vibration generated by operation of a valve that opens and closes a water supply passage in the washing machine.

[0215] <Supplementary Note 12> The water supply device according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 11, further comprising an end event detection unit that detects a water supply end event that occurs in the washing machine, wherein the control unit stops operation of the water delivery device when the water supply end event is detected by the end event detection unit.

[0216] <Supplementary Note 13> The water supply device according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 12, comprising the water storage section that stores water.

[0217] <Supplementary Note 14> A laundry system comprising: the water supply device according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 13; and a washing machine supplied with water from the water supply device.

Claims

1. A water supply device comprising: a water delivery device that delivers water from a water storage section to a washing machine; a start event detection section that detects a water supply start event that occurs in the washing machine; and a control section that operates the water delivery device when the water supply start event is detected by the start event detection section.

2. A water supply device as described in claim 1, further comprising an auxiliary tank arranged at a position higher than the washing machine and provided in a waterway connecting the water delivery device and the washing machine, wherein the start event detection unit includes a sensor that detects the occurrence of a water flow from the auxiliary tank toward the washing machine as the water supply start event.

3. A water supply device as described in claim 1, further comprising an auxiliary tank positioned at a higher position than the washing machine and provided in a waterway connecting the water delivery device and the washing machine, wherein the start event detection unit includes a sensor that detects a drop in the water level in the auxiliary tank as the water supply start event.

4. The water supply device according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising a pressure increasing mechanism for increasing the pressure in the auxiliary tank.

5. A water supply device as described in claim 4, wherein the pressure increasing mechanism comprises: an air compressor which generates compressed air; and an air tank which stores the compressed air, and the air tank is configured such that the compressed air in the air tank is supplied to the auxiliary tank when the pressure in the auxiliary tank is lower than the pressure in the air tank.

6. The water supply device according to claim 5, wherein the control unit controls the air compressor so that water pressurized by the compressed air in the auxiliary tank is supplied to the washing machine.

7. A water supply device as described in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the auxiliary tank has an elastic wall that can expand and contract in response to water pressure, and the control unit controls the water delivery device so that the elastic wall is in an expanded state.

8. The water supply device according to claim 7, wherein the control unit controls the water delivery device so that the elastic wall is in an expanded state when water supply from the auxiliary tank to the washing machine begins.

9. The water supply device according to claim 7, further comprising a restricting member disposed outside said elastic wall for restricting said elastic wall from expanding beyond a predetermined amount.

10. The water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the start event detection unit includes a sensor that detects a change in a magnetic field caused by the operation of a solenoid valve that opens and closes a water supply passage in the washing machine as the water supply start event.

11. The water supply device according to claim 1, wherein the start event detection unit includes a sensor that detects, as the water supply start event, sound or vibration generated by operation of a valve that opens and closes a water supply passage in the washing machine.

12. A water supply device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an end event detection unit that detects a water supply end event occurring in the washing machine, wherein the control unit stops operation of the water discharge device when the water supply end event is detected by the end event detection unit.

13. A water supply device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a water storage section in which water is stored.

14. A washing system comprising: a water supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3; and a washing machine supplied with water from the water supply device.

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