Washing machine comprising damping device

Abstract

A washing machine disclosed herein comprises: a washing tub; a spin-dry tub arranged rotatably in the washing tub; a housing accommodating the washing tub; a suspension for suspending the washing tub on the housing in a substantially vertical direction; and a damping device connecting the washing tub and the housing. The damping device comprises: a translational damper which applies a damping force in the direction of translation; and first and second rotation dampers which are connected to both ends of the translational damper while securing a degree of freedom of the translational damper in a substantially vertical direction, and apply the damping force in the direction of rotation. The first rotation damper is arranged on the lower portion of the housing to be rotatable about a first rotation axis in a substantially vertical direction. The second rotation damper is arranged on the bottom of the washing tub to be rotatable about a second rotation axis in a substantially vertical direction.

Description

Washing machine with damping device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine having a damping device.

[0002] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-513410 discloses a pulsator washing machine (top-loading washing machine). The disclosed washing machine includes a housing, a washing tub assembly installed within the housing, and a floor vibration damping device installed at the bottom of the washing tub assembly. The floor vibration damping device includes a shock absorber and two mounting frames. Both ends of the shock absorber are rotatably connected to the two mounting frames, one mounting frame is installed on the outer wall of the bottom of the water collection chamber, and the other mounting frame is installed at the bottom of the housing.

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine includes a washing tub, a dewatering tub, and a housing. The washing tub is accommodated in the housing. The dewatering tub is rotatably arranged inside the washing tub. The washing tub is suspended from the housing in a substantially vertical direction. A damping device connects the washing tub and the housing. The damping device includes a translational damper and a rotational damper. The translational damper applies a damping force to the washing tub in a translational direction. The rotational damper includes first and second rotational dampers. The first and second rotational dampers are respectively connected to both ends of the translational damper while securing a degree of freedom of the translational damper in a substantially vertical direction, and apply a damping force to the washing tub in a rotational direction. The first rotational damper is connected to one end of the translational damper and is rotatably arranged about a first rotational axis in a substantially vertical direction at a lower portion of the housing. The second rotary damper is connected to the other end of the translation damper and is arranged to rotate around a second rotary axis that is approximately vertical to the bottom of the washing tub.

[0004] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the overall configuration of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0005] Figure 2 is an enlarged perspective view of part A of Figure 1.

[0006] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a damping device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an example of the arrangement structure of a damping device in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing an example of the arrangement structure of a damping device in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an example of the arrangement structure of a damping device in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a rotary damper according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 8 is a drawing showing an example of the assembly process of an arm and a cap.

[0012] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the inner wall shape of a holder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a damping device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0015] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0016] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0017] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0018] For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" can include one of A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A, B, and C.

[0019] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0020] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0021] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0022] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0023] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0024] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0025] Washing machines according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. A washing machine is an example of a clothing treatment device, and the term "clothing treatment device" encompasses devices that wash clothing (laundry items, drying items), devices that dry clothing, and devices that can perform both washing and drying of clothing.

[0026] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include top-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet for loading or removing laundry is provided facing upward, or front-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet is provided facing forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines of other loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0027] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. The front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine with a dryer that can dry the laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine with a dryer may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. For example, the washing machine with a dryer may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine with a washing method other than the washing method described above.

[0028] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components therein. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet formed on one side.

[0029] A washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry compartment. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing to be viewed.

[0030] A washing machine may include a tub provided within a housing to store water. The tub may be provided in a generally cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned within the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet.

[0031] The tub may be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated when the drum rotates, thereby reducing the vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0032] A washing machine may include a drum configured to accommodate laundry.

[0033] The drum may be positioned within the tub such that the drum opening provided on one side corresponds to the laundry inlet and the tub opening. Laundry may be sequentially passed through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening to be accommodated within the drum or taken out from the drum.

[0034] The drum rotates within the tub and can perform each of the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration operations. The cylindrical wall of the drum is formed with a number of perforations, allowing water stored in the tub to flow into or out of the drum.

[0035] A washing machine may include a drive device configured to rotate a drum. The drive device may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may be connected to the drum by penetrating the tub.

[0036] The driving device can rotate the drum forward or backward to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying cycle.

[0037] A washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to a tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided on the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub via the detergent supply device. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0038] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water to the tub from an external water source. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0039] A washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to a tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to add detergent for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically supplies a predetermined amount of detergent during a wash cycle. The detergent supply device may include a detergent compartment for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during a water supply process. Water supplied through a water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. Detergent is used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent compartment may be divided into a pre-wash detergent storage area, a main wash detergent storage area, a fabric softener storage area, and a bleach storage area.

[0040] A washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in a tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water in the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0041] The washing machine may include a control panel positioned on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for a user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0042] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0043] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0044] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0045] For example, at least one output interface may transmit information related to the washing cycle and operating time of the washing machine, as well as washing / rinsing / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0046] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with external devices via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0047] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0048] The communication module can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance). For example, the communication module can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various data.

[0049] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Any of these communication modules may communicate with the external device via a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0050] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0051] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0052] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices such as a server, a user device, and other home appliances through a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or the user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or the user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine, such as a drive motor and a water inlet valve. The control unit can control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one cycle, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, according to a user input. For example, the control unit can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum, or control the water inlet valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0053] The control unit may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine, at least one memory storing program-type data, and at least one processor performing the aforementioned operation using data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0054] To increase the washing capacity, the outer diameter of the washing tub can be enlarged. In this case, the outer dimensions of the washing machine need to be enlarged to maintain the gap between the washing tub and the housing. In this regard, the present disclosure provides a washing machine capable of increasing the washing capacity without increasing the outer dimensions of the washing machine by reducing the vibration of the washing tub during pendulum resonance, which generates the maximum vibration displacement (amplitude) of the washing tub. In a structure in which only a translational damper is arranged between the washing tub and the housing and no rotational damper is arranged, it is difficult to reduce the translational vibration displacement of the washing tub that occurs during pendulum resonance of the washing tub. The present disclosure provides a washing machine capable of reducing the translational vibration displacement of the washing tub that occurs during pendulum resonance of the washing tub. For example, in a so-called top-loading washing machine, a damping device is provided that connects the bottom of the washing tub and the lower part of the housing to reduce the vibration displacement of the washing tub during pendulum resonance at the beginning of the spin-drying process. The damping device comprises a translational damper that provides a damping force in the translational direction and a rotary damper that provides a damping force in the rotational direction. The damping force of the translational damper and the damping force of the rotary damper are combined and applied to the washing tub. As a result, the damping force of the damping device can be applied to the washing tub regardless of the direction in which the washing tub is translated.

[0055] However, the technical challenges to be achieved in this disclosure are not limited to the technical challenges mentioned above, and other technical challenges not mentioned above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains from the description below. Hereinafter, embodiments of the washing machine of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the following description is essentially illustrative only.

[0056] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the overall configuration of a washing machine (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a right side view of the washing machine (1) with the right side of the housing (13) partially cut away so that the inside of the washing machine (1) is visible. In FIG. 1, the upper and lower sides correspond to the upper and lower sides of the washing machine (1), respectively, and the left and right sides in FIG. 1 correspond to the front and rear sides of the washing machine (1), respectively. In the following description, it is assumed that the washing machine (1) is installed horizontally, and the up-and-down direction based on the washing machine (1) is a vertical direction, and the direction on a plane parallel to the front-back direction and the left-right direction based on the washing machine (1) is a horizontal direction. Here, “vertical” does not mean only a strictly vertical direction, but includes a roughly vertical direction. In addition, “horizontal” does not mean only a strictly horizontal direction, but includes a roughly horizontal direction.

[0057] Referring to Fig. 1, the washing machine (1) is a so-called top-loading washing machine. The washing machine (1) may be equipped with a washing tub (11), a dehydration tub (12), a housing (13), a suspension (14), and a damping device (20). The washing machine (1) may further be equipped with a motor (15) and a drain hose (16).

[0058] The washing tub (11) is a water storage tank (tub) and is positioned inside the housing (13). The dewatering tub (12) is a rotating drum into which laundry is put and is positioned rotatably inside the washing tub (11). The dewatering tub (12) has a rotational shaft (121) extending vertically and is rotated by the rotation of the rotational shaft (121). The rotational direction of the dewatering tub (12) may be, for example, the leftward direction (counterclockwise) when the washing machine (1) is viewed from above. Since the dewatering tub (12) and the rotational shaft (121) are positioned inside the washing tub (11), they are illustrated by dotted lines in Fig. 1.

[0059] The housing (13) accommodates a washing tub (11) and a dewatering tub (12). The housing (13) may have an outer shape of approximately a rectangular parallelepiped. An opening for loading laundry is provided in the upper portion of the housing (13). A cover (131) is mounted on the housing (13) so as to be able to open and close the opening. A water supply port (132) for supplying water to the washing tub (11) is provided in the upper portion of the housing (13).

[0060] The suspension (14) suspends the washing tub (11) from the housing (13). For example, the suspension (14) suspends the washing tub (11) from the housing (13) in the direction of the rotation axis (121) of the dehydrating tub (12), i.e., in the vertical direction. As an example, the suspension (14) may include a hanging rod (14a). The motor (15) is connected to the rotation axis (121) of the dehydrating tub (12). The motor (15) rotates the dehydrating tub (12) by rotating the rotation axis (121). Water used for washing laundry or water dehydrated from the laundry is drained out of the housing (13) through the drain hose (16). The damping device (20) connects the washing tub (11) and the housing (13). A damping device (20) is placed between the washing tub (11) and the housing (13) to dampen vibration of the washing tub (11).

[0061] Fig. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of part A of Fig. 1. Referring to Fig. 2, the damping device (20) may include a translational damper (30) and a rotational damper (40a, 40b). The translational damper (30) is a damper that applies a damping force in the translational direction to the washing tub (11). The rotational dampers (40a, 40b) are dampers that apply a damping force in the rotational direction to the washing tub (11).

[0062] The rotary dampers (40a, 40b) are respectively connected to both ends of the translational damper (30). The rotary dampers (40a, 40b) are respectively connected to both ends of the translational damper (30) so as to secure the degree of freedom of the translational damper (30) in the vertical direction. Hereinafter, the rotary damper (40a) is referred to as the first rotary damper (40a), and the rotary damper (40b) is referred to as the second rotary damper (40b). The first rotary damper (40a) is connected to one end of the translational damper (20). The first rotary damper (40a) is arranged so as to be rotatable about a rotational axis (first rotational axis) (Va) in the vertical direction with respect to the housing (13) at the lower part of the housing (13). In addition, the second rotation damper (40b) is connected to the other end of the translation damper (20). The second rotation damper (40b) is arranged so as to be rotatable about a vertical rotation axis (second rotation axis) (Vb) on the bottom of the washing tub (11), i.e., on the lower wall of the washing tub (11). In order to apply a damping force to the translational movement of the washing tub (11), the first and second rotation dampers (40a, 40b) are arranged on the lower part of the housing (13) and the bottom of the washing tub (11), respectively, so that the first and second rotation axes (Va, Vb) are in the vertical direction. The first rotation damper (40a) has damping in the circumferential direction of the first rotation axis (Va). The second rotation damper (40b) has damping in the circumferential direction of the second rotation axis (Vb).

[0063] Here, securing the degree of freedom of the translational damper (30) in the vertical direction can be implemented by allowing the translational damper (30) to rotate about a horizontal rotational axis with respect to each of the first and second rotational dampers (40a, 40b). In other words, the translational damper (30) is rotatable about a horizontal rotational axis (third rotational axis) (Ha) with respect to the first rotational damper (40a), and is rotatable about a horizontal rotational axis (fourth rotational axis) (Hb) with respect to the second rotational damper (40b). That is, by making the third and fourth rotation axes (Ha, Hb), which are the rotation axes of both ends of the translation damper (30) relative to the first and second rotation dampers (40a, 40b), horizontal and allowing the translation damper (30) to have a degree of freedom of rotation in the vertical direction, damage to the translation damper (30) due to the up-and-down movement of the washing tub (11) can be reduced or prevented. In addition, in order to minimize the generation of a damping force for vertical vibration of the washing tub (11), the translation damper (30) can be arranged approximately horizontally.

[0064] Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a damping device (20) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Fig. 3, a translational damper (30) generates a damping force while expanding and contracting. The translational damper (30) according to one embodiment may include a rod (31) and a damper housing (32) that are slidably connected to each other, and a friction material (33) interposed between the rod (31) and the damper housing (32) to provide a frictional damping force. For example, at least a portion of the rod (31) may be slidably inserted into the damper housing (32).

[0065] The rod (31) is rotatably coupled to the first rotation damper (40a). For example, the rod (31) is connected to the first shaft (34a) provided in the first rotation damper (40a). The rod (31) is rotatably connected to the first shaft (34a) with respect to the first shaft (34a). The first shaft (34a) may be rotatably provided to the first rotary damper (40a). For example, one end of the rod (31) is rotatably connected to the first shaft (34a). A friction material (35a) providing friction damping force is interposed between the first shaft (34a) and the rod (31). The first shaft (34a) functions as the third rotary axis (Ha) described above. Therefore, the damping device (20) according to one embodiment has damping in the circumferential direction of the third rotary axis (Ha), which is the rotary axis of the translational damper (30) with respect to the first rotary damper (40a).

[0066] The damper housing (32) is rotatably coupled to the second rotary damper (40b). For example, the damper housing (32) is connected to a second shaft (34b) installed in the second rotary damper (40b). For example, one end of the damper housing (32) is rotatably connected to the second shaft (34b). A friction material (not visible in FIG. 3) is interposed between the second shaft (34b) and the damper housing (32). The second shaft (34b) functions as the fourth rotary axis (Hb) (see FIG. 2) described above. Therefore, the damping device (20) according to one embodiment has damping in the circumferential direction of the fourth rotary axis (Hb), which is the rotary axis of the translational damper (30) with respect to the second rotary damper (40b).

[0067] As an example, the first rotary damper (40a) may include a first holder (41a), a first arm (42a), and a first cap (43a). In the first rotary damper (40a), the first arm (42a) and the first cap (43a) are integrated to form a first cap member (46a), and the first cap member (46a) rotates relative to the first holder (41a). A friction material (Fig. 7: 44), which will be described later, is interposed between the first holder (41a) and the first cap member (46a). The first cap member (46a) functions as the first rotational axis (Va) (see Fig. 2) described above. Therefore, the damping device (20) according to one example has damping in the circumferential direction of the first rotational axis (Va) of the first rotary damper (40a). The first rotary damper (40a) including the first holder (41a), the first arm (42a), and the first cap (43a) will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9.

[0068] The configuration of the second rotation damper (40b) may be the same as that of the first rotation damper (40a). For example, the second rotation damper (40b) may include a second holder (41b), a second arm (42b), and a second cap (43b). In the second rotation damper (40b), the second arm (42b) and the second cap (43b) are integrated to form a second cap member (46b), and the second cap member (46b) rotates relative to the second holder (41b). A friction material (Fig. 7: 44), which will be described later, is interposed between the second holder (41b) and the second cap member (46b). The second cap member (46b) functions as the second rotation shaft (Vb) (see Fig. 2) described above. Accordingly, the damping device (20) according to one embodiment has damping in the circumferential direction of the second rotation axis (Vb) of the second rotation damper (40b). The second rotation damper (40b) including the second holder (41b), the second arm (42b), and the second cap (43b) will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9.

[0069] In this way, in the damping device (20), the first and second rotation dampers (40a, 40b) are connected to both ends of the translation damper (30), respectively. Then, when the washing tub (11) moves in a direction in which the translation of the translation damper (30) does not occur as indicated by arrow B1, that is, in a direction in which the translation damper (30) does not expand, the first rotation damper (40a) rotates in the direction indicated by arrow B2 to provide a damping force to the washing tub (11).

[0070] FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 are drawings showing examples of the arrangement structure of a damping device (20) in a washing machine (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGS. 4 to 6 are bottom views of the washing machine (1). The housing (13) is not shown in FIGS. 4 to 6. In FIGS. 4 to 6, front, rear, left, and right represent the front, rear, left, and right sides of the washing machine (1), respectively.

[0071] First, referring to FIG. 4, the translational damper (30) is arranged to translate from the first rotational damper (40a) toward the center of the washing tub (11), i.e., the rotational axis (121) of the dewatering tub (12). For example, the first rotational damper (40a) is arranged near the corner on the left rear side of the washing machine (1). The translational damper (30) and the second rotational damper (40b) are arranged so that, when viewed from the bottom of the washing machine (1), the direction from the first rotational damper (40a) to the second rotational damper (40b) forms a clockwise angle of approximately 45° with respect to the direction from the first rotational damper (40a) toward the front side of the washing machine (1). Accordingly, regardless of which direction the washing tub (11) moves, both the translational damper (30) and the first and second rotational dampers (40a, 40b) can provide damping force to the washing tub (11).

[0072] In the embodiment of the arrangement structure illustrated in Fig. 4, the first rotation damper (40a) is arranged near the left rear corner of the washing machine (1), but the arrangement position of the first rotation damper (40a) is not limited thereto. As long as the translation damper (30) can translate toward the rotation axis (121) of the dehydration tank (12), the first rotation damper (40a) may be arranged near the corner of either side of the washing machine (1).

[0073] Next, referring to FIG. 5, the translation damper (30) is arranged substantially parallel to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16). For example, the first rotation damper (40a) is arranged near the left rear corner of the washing machine (1). The translation damper (30) and the second rotation damper (40b) are arranged so that, when viewed from the bottom of the washing machine (1), the direction from the first rotation damper (40a) to the second rotation damper (40b) is approximately 90° clockwise with respect to the direction from the first rotation damper (40a) toward the front of the washing machine (1). That is, the second rotation damper (40b) is arranged so that, when viewed from the vertical direction, the direction from the first rotation damper (40a) to the second rotation damper (40b) is substantially parallel to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16). In this way, by arranging the translation damper (30) almost parallel to the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16) formed of an elastic material, the translation damper (30) can attenuate the vibration of the washing tub (11) transmitted through the drain hose (16), thereby reducing the vibration transmitted to the housing (13).

[0074] In the embodiment of the arrangement structure illustrated in FIG. 5, the first rotation damper (40a) is arranged near the left rear corner of the washing machine (1), but the arrangement position of the first rotation damper (40a) is not limited thereto. As long as the second rotation damper (40b) can be arranged so that the direction from the first rotation damper (40a) to the second rotation damper (40b) is substantially parallel to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16), the first rotation damper (40a) may be arranged near the corner of either side of the washing machine (1).

[0075] Next, referring to Fig. 6, the translational damper (30) is arranged so as to be almost perpendicular to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16) when viewed from the vertical direction. For example, the first rotational damper (40a) is arranged near the left rear corner of the washing machine (1). The translational damper (30) and the second rotational damper (40b) are arranged so that, when viewed from the bottom of the washing machine (1), the direction from the first rotational damper (40a) to the second rotational damper (40b) forms a clockwise angle of about 7° from the direction facing forward from the first rotational damper (40a). This corresponds to the arrangement of the translational damper (30) and the first and second rotational dampers (40a, 40b) illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2. That is, the second rotation damper (40b) is arranged so that, when viewed from the vertical direction, the direction from the first rotation damper (40a) to the second rotation damper (40b) is almost perpendicular to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16). In this way, by arranging the damping device (20) so that the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16) and the translation damper (30) are roughly perpendicular, both the elasticity of the drain hose (16) and the damping force of the translation damper (30) can be applied to the washing tub (11) when the washing tub (11) moves.

[0076] In the embodiment of the arrangement structure illustrated in Fig. 6, the first rotation damper (40a) is arranged near the left rear corner of the washing machine (1), but the arrangement position of the first rotation damper (40a) is not limited to this. As long as the direction of the second rotation damper (40b) from the first rotation damper (40a) to the second rotation damper (40b) can be almost perpendicular to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16), the first rotation damper (40a) may be arranged near the corner of either side of the washing machine (1).

[0077] Hereinafter, embodiments of the first and second rotary dampers (40a, 40b) will be described in detail. The structures of the first and second rotary dampers (40a, 40b) are the same. Therefore, the first and second rotary dampers (40a, 40b) are collectively referred to as rotary dampers (40) hereinafter. Fig. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a rotary damper (40) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. When the rotary damper (40) is the first rotary damper (40a), Fig. 7 corresponds to a cross-sectional view of the first rotary damper (40a) cut along a plane including the first and third rotary axes (Ha, Va) (see Fig. 2). When the rotary damper (40) is a second rotary damper (40b), Fig. 7 corresponds to a cross-sectional view of the second rotary damper (40b) cut along a plane including the second and fourth rotary axes (Hb, Vb) (see Fig. 2). In Fig. 7, the vertical direction is indicated as the first side and the second side. When the rotary damper (40) is a first rotary damper (40a), the first side is the lower side in the vertical direction, and the second side is the upper side in the vertical direction. When the rotary damper (40) is a second rotary damper (40b), the first side is the upper side in the vertical direction, and the second side is the lower side in the vertical direction.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 7, a rotary damper (40) according to one embodiment may include a holder (41), an arm (42), a cap (43), a friction material (44), and an O-ring (45). When the rotary damper (40) is a first rotary damper (40a), the holder (41), the arm (42), and the cap (43) correspond to the first holder (41a), the first arm (42a), and the first cap (43a) described above, respectively. When the rotary damper (40) is a second rotary damper (40b), the holder (41), the arm (42), and the cap (43) correspond to the second holder (41b), the second arm (42b), and the second cap (43b) described above, respectively.

[0079] The holder (41) is a member that is fixed to a portion of the washing machine (1) where the rotation damper (40) is disposed. A holder opening (415) in a substantially vertical direction is provided in the holder (41). The holder (41) may have a first holder portion (411) positioned on a first side in the vertical direction. The first holder portion (411) is fixed to a portion of the washing machine (1) where the rotation damper (40) is disposed. When the rotation damper (40) is a first rotation damper (40a), the portion of the washing machine (1) is the lower part of the housing (13), and when the rotation damper (40) is a second rotation damper (40b), the portion of the washing machine (1) is the bottom of the washing tub (11). The holder (41) may further have a second holder portion (412) positioned on a second side in the vertical direction. The second holder portion (412) can extend from the first holder portion (411) toward the second side. A holder opening (415) extending vertically is defined by the second holder portion (412). A holder extension portion (416) extending inwardly from the holder opening (415) is provided in the holder (41). For example, the holder extension portion (416) can be formed by extending from the end of the second side of the second holder portion (412) toward the inside of the holder opening (415). The second side of the friction material (44) described later is supported by the holder extension portion (416). The holder (41) can be formed of, for example, a resin.

[0080] The arm (42) is a rotatable member relative to the holder (41). The arm (42) is rotatably inserted into the holder opening (415). A translational damper (30) (see FIGS. 2 and 3) is connected to the arm (42). The arm (42) has an arm opening (425) extending approximately vertically. The arm (42) may have a first arm portion (421). The first arm portion (421) is positioned on a first side in the vertical direction. The first arm portion (421) is rotatably inserted into the holder opening (415) of the holder (41), whereby the arm (42) is rotatable relative to the holder (41). The arm opening (425) may be defined by the first arm portion (421). The arm (42) may have a second arm portion (422). The second arm portion (422) is positioned on the second side in the vertical direction. A horizontal shaft coupling opening (423) is provided in the second arm portion (422). A shaft (Fig. 3: 34) to which the translational damper (30) is rotatably connected is inserted into the shaft coupling opening (423). When the rotational damper (40) is a first rotational damper (40a), the shaft (34) is a first shaft (34a), and when the rotational damper (40) is a second rotational damper (40b), the shaft (34) is a second shaft (34b). A horizontal hooking opening (424) into which a hook (434) of a cap (43) described later is inserted is provided in the second arm portion (422). The arm (42) can be formed of, for example, resin.

[0081] The cap (43) is a separation prevention member that is inserted into the arm opening (425) and fixed to the arm (42) to prevent the arm (42) from vertically separating from the holder (41). The cap (43) may include a first cap portion (431) and a second cap portion (432). The first cap portion (431) is positioned on the first side in the vertical direction. The second cap portion (432) extends from the first cap portion (431) toward the second side in the vertical direction. A cap extension portion (436) is provided at one end of the cap (43) in the vertical direction, which is vertically opposite to the holder opening portion (416). For example, the cap extension portion (436) may be provided on the first cap portion (431). For example, the cap extension portion (436) may be formed to extend outward from a portion adjacent to the end of the first side of the second cap portion (432) of the first cap portion (431). The cap extension portion (436) is a friction material support portion that supports the first side of the friction material (44) described later. The second cap portion (432) is inserted into the arm opening (425) of the arm (42). The cap (43) may have a hook (434). The hook (434) may be provided in the second cap portion (432). The hook (434) is caught in the catch opening (424) provided in the second arm portion (422) of the arm (42). The second cap part (432) of the cap (43) is inserted into the arm opening (425) of the arm (42), and the hook (434) is caught in the catch opening (424), whereby the cap (43) can be fixed to the arm (42). The cap (43) can be formed of, for example, resin.

[0082] The friction material (44) provides a rotational damping force when the arm (42) rotates with respect to the holder (41). In other words, the friction material (44) comes into sliding contact with the arm (42) when the arm (42) rotates with respect to the holder (41) and generates a torque in the direction in which the arm (42) stops rotating. The friction material (44) is interposed horizontally between the holder (41) and the arm (42). The holder extension (416) provided on the holder (41) is positioned on the second side of the friction material (44), and the cap extension (436) provided on the cap (43) is positioned on the first side of the friction material (44). The friction material (44) is compressed and maintained in the vertical direction by the holder extension (416) and the cap extension (436). The friction material (44) may be formed of a material having excellent wear resistance. For example, the friction material (44) may be formed of rubber.

[0083] An O-ring (45) is interposed between the holder (41) and the arm (42) in a vertical direction to prevent the holder (41) and the arm (42) from direct contact. The O-ring (45) may be, for example, a member formed of rubber. For example, the O-ring (45) may be interposed between a surface of the holder (41) facing the second side and a surface of the arm (42) facing approximately the first side. For example, the arm (42) may have an arm extension (426) that extends outward in a horizontal direction from the second-side end of the first arm portion (421) and is vertically opposed to the holder extension (416) of the holder (41). The O-ring (45) may be interposed between the holder extension (416) and the arm extension (426). Accordingly, even if a force or vibration in the direction of tilting the arm (42) is applied to the rotary damper (40), the holder (41) and the arm (43), which are resin parts, do not come into contact with each other, so that the generation of a tapping sound due to the vibration input can be suppressed. In addition, since the O-ring (45) can prevent the arm (42) from collapsing, the degree of freedom in designing the hardness or size of the friction material (44) can be increased.

[0084] Next, the assembly of the arm (42) and cap (43) illustrated in Fig. 7 will be described. Fig. 8 is a drawing showing an example of the assembly process of the arm (42) and cap (43). Fig. 8 (a) shows the state before assembly, and Fig. 8 (b) shows the state after assembly.

[0085] As illustrated in (a) of Fig. 8, a hook opening (424) is provided in the second arm portion (422) of the arm (42), and a hook (434) is provided in the second cap portion (432) of the cap (43). When assembling the arm (42) and the cap (43), as illustrated in (b) of Fig. 8, the second cap portion (432) of the cap (43) is inserted into the arm opening (425) of the arm (42), for example, in the vertical direction from the first side to the second side. At this time, the hook (434) of the cap (43) is elastically inserted into the hook opening (424) of the arm (42).

[0086] In the above-described embodiment, the hook opening (424) of the arm (42) is provided in the second arm portion (422), which is a portion of the arm (42) that is not inserted into the holder opening (415), but is not limited thereto. The hook opening (424) of the arm (42) may also be provided in the first arm portion (421), which is a portion of the arm (42) that is inserted into the holder opening (415). In this case, the hook (434) of the cap (43) is provided in the second cap portion (432) of the cap (43) at a position corresponding to the hook opening (424) provided in the first arm portion (421) of the arm (42).

[0087] In this way, by providing a hook (434) on the cap (43) so that it catches on the hook opening (424) of the arm (42), the position at which the friction material (44) is maintained can be determined. In addition, screws become unnecessary for assembling the arm (42) and the cap (43).

[0088] Next, the inner wall shape of the holder (41) illustrated in Fig. 7 will be described. Fig. 9 is a drawing showing the inner wall shape of the holder (41) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] Referring to Fig. 9, a friction material (44) is arranged on the inner wall of the second holder portion (412) of the holder (41), that is, the inner wall forming the holder opening (415). The inner wall of the holder extension portion (416) of the holder (41) has a rough shape. That is, the inner wall of the holder extension portion (416) has a first wall portion (413) that protrudes relatively inwardly from the holder opening (415) and a second wall portion (414) that is relatively sunken inwardly from the holder opening (415). The first wall portion (413) has a first thickness in an approximately horizontal direction. The second wall portion (414) has a second thickness that is thinner than the first thickness in an approximately horizontal direction.

[0090] By forming the inner wall of the holder extension (416) in this shape, the lubricant can be filled in the concave space of the second wall portion (414) interposed between the two adjacent first wall portions (413). Accordingly, the lubricating performance can be maintained for a relatively longer period of time compared to the case where the lubricant is applied only to the friction material (44). In addition, when the friction material (44) is compressed horizontally between the holder (41) and the arm (42), the friction material (44) expands vertically. At this time, the friction material (44) expanded vertically can be accommodated in the concave space of the second wall portion (414) interposed between the two adjacent first wall portions (413), so that a sudden increase in torque due to a sudden horizontal compression of the friction material (44) can be suppressed.

[0091] According to embodiments of the washing machine (1) according to the present disclosure, the bottom of the washing tub (11) and the lower part of the housing (13) are connected by a damping device (20) having first and second rotary dampers (40a, 40b) and a translational damper (30). Accordingly, when the pendulum of the washing tub (11) resonates, a damping force is applied in all directions, thereby reducing vibration of the washing tub (11). In addition, according to embodiments of the washing machine (1) according to the present disclosure, a damping force is applied in the front, back, left, and right directions where a damping force is required, and the rotation axis of the translational damper (30) relative to the rotational damper (40) is installed in a direction parallel to the ground, that is, in a horizontal direction. Accordingly, when the washing tub (11) sinks downward during a washing operation, it is possible not to impede the movement of the washing tub (11).

[0092] Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a damping device (50) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Fig. 10, the damping device (50) according to one embodiment may include first and second translational dampers (51, 52), a rotary arm (53), and a rotary member (54).

[0093] One end of the first translation damper (51) is connected to the bottom of the washing tub (11) like the translation damper (30) of the damping device (20). The other end of the first translation damper (51) is connected to the rotary arm (53) rather than the rotary damper (40). One end of the second translation damper (52) is connected to the lower part of the housing (13) like the translation damper (30) of the damping device (20). The other end of the second translation damper (52) is connected to the rotary arm (53) rather than the bottom surface of the washing tub (11). The first translation damper (51) is rotatable about a horizontal rotation axis (Hc) with respect to the rotation arm (53). The rotation arm (53) is rotatable about a vertical rotation axis (Vc). The second translation damper (52) is connected to the lower part of the housing (13) via a rotating member (54), and the rotating member (54) is rotatable around a vertical rotation axis (Vd). Accordingly, when the washing tub (11) moves in translation, the first translation damper (51) moves in translation, causing the rotating arm (53) to rotate, but the rotation of the rotating arm (53) is damped by the second translation damper (52).

[0094] In this way, in the damping device (50), the first translation damper (51) is connected to the housing (13) via a rotary arm (53), and the lower part of the rotary arm (53) and the housing (13) is connected with an additional second translation damper (52). That is, the two translation dampers (51, 52) provide damping force in all directions for the translational movement of the washing tub (11).

[0095] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine comprises a washing tub, a dehydrating tub rotatably arranged inside the washing tub, a housing accommodating the washing tub, a suspension for hanging the washing tub in a substantially vertical direction from the housing, and a damping device connecting the washing tub and the housing. The damping device includes a translational damper for applying a damping force in a translational direction to the washing tub, and first and second rotational dampers, which are respectively connected to both ends of the translational damper while securing a degree of freedom of the translational damper in a substantially vertical direction, and for applying a damping force in a rotational direction to the washing tub. The first rotational damper is connected to one end of the translational damper and is rotatably arranged about a first rotational axis (Va) in a substantially vertical direction at a lower portion of the housing. The second rotational damper is connected to the other end of the translational damper and is arranged to rotate about a second rotational axis (Vb) in a substantially vertical direction at a bottom of the washing tub.

[0096] By arranging a rotary damper at each end of a translational damper, even if the washing tub is translated in a direction different from the expansion and contraction direction of the translational damper, a damping force is applied to the washing tub by the rotary damper. Accordingly, vibration displacement caused by pendulum vibration of the washing tub can be reduced. In addition, since the translational damper is connected to the rotational damper while securing a degree of freedom in the vertical direction, damage to the translational damper due to vertical movement of the washing tub can be reduced or prevented.

[0097] As one embodiment, the damping device may have damping in the circumferential direction of the first rotational axis of the first rotary damper and damping in the circumferential direction of the second rotational axis of the second rotary damper. As a result, vibration displacement during pendulum vibration of the washing tub can be reduced.

[0098] In one embodiment, the translational damper is rotatable about a third rotational axis (Ha) that is approximately horizontal to the first rotary damper, and is rotatable about a fourth rotational axis (Hb) that is approximately horizontal to the second rotary damper. As a result, the translational damper can have a degree of freedom in the vertical direction, and the risk of damage to the translational damper due to vertical movement of the washing tub can be reduced or prevented.

[0099] As one embodiment, the damping device may have damping in the circumferential direction of the third rotational axis with respect to the first rotational damper of the translational damper, and may have damping in the circumferential direction of the fourth rotational axis with respect to the second rotational damper of the translational damper. As a result, vibration displacement due to vertical movement of the washing tub can be reduced.

[0100] As an example, when the washing tub moves in translation, the translational damper may apply a damping force to the washing tub by expanding and contracting, the first rotary damper may apply a damping force to the washing tub by rotating around the first rotational axis, and the second rotary damper may apply a damping force to the washing tub by rotating around the second rotational axis. Accordingly, vibration displacement due to the translational movement of the washing tub can be reduced.

[0101] As an example, the first rotary damper may be positioned near a corner portion of the lower portion of the housing.

[0102] As an example, the translational damper may be arranged to translate toward the rotational axis of the dehydrating tank. Accordingly, a damping force may be provided to the washing tank regardless of the direction in which the washing tank is translated.

[0103] In one embodiment, the translational damper may be arranged so as to be substantially parallel to the direction of the central axis of the drain hose when viewed in a vertical direction. In one embodiment, the second rotary damper may be arranged so as to be substantially parallel to the direction of the central axis of the drain hose when viewed in a vertical direction from the first rotary damper to the second rotary damper. Accordingly, the translational damper can attenuate vibration of the washing tub transmitted through the drain hose, thereby reducing vibration transmitted to the housing.

[0104] In one embodiment, the translational damper may be arranged so as to be substantially perpendicular to the direction of the central axis of the drain hose when viewed in a vertical direction. In one embodiment, the second rotary damper may be arranged so that the direction from the first rotary damper to the second rotary damper is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the central axis of the drain hose when viewed in a vertical direction. Accordingly, both the elasticity of the drain hose and the damping force of the translational damper may be applied to the washing tub.

[0105] In one embodiment, each of the first and second rotary dampers may include: a holder fixed to a portion of the washing machine where the first rotary damper or the second rotary damper is disposed, the holder having a substantially vertical holder opening; an arm rotatably inserted into the holder opening, connected to the translational damper, and having an approximately vertical arm opening; a cap inserted into the arm opening and fixed to the arm so as to prevent the arm from vertically detaching from the holder; and a friction material interposed horizontally between the holder and the arm to provide a rotational damping force when the arm is rotated relative to the holder. As a result, the rotary damper can provide a rotational damping force to the washing tub.

[0106] As an example, each of the first and second rotary dampers may include an O-ring vertically interposed between the holder and the arm. Accordingly, even if a force or vibration in the direction of tilting the arm is applied to the rotary damper, the holder and the arm do not come into contact with each other, thereby suppressing noise generation.

[0107] In one embodiment, the arm may be provided with a generally horizontal latching opening. The cap may be provided with a hook that is inserted into and latched onto the latching opening. This allows the cap and arm to be integrally rotated relative to the holder.

[0108] In one embodiment, the holder may have a holder extension formed to extend inwardly of the holder opening. The cap may have a cap extension vertically opposite the holder extension. The friction material may be interposed between the holder extension and the cap extension. The holder extension may have a first wall portion having a first thickness in a substantially horizontal direction and a second wall portion having a second thickness that is thinner than the first thickness in a substantially horizontal direction. Accordingly, lubricating oil can be filled in the concave space formed by the second wall portion, thereby improving lubrication performance. In addition, since the friction material expanded in the vertical direction can be accommodated in the concave space formed by the second wall portion, a sudden increase in torque due to a sudden compression of the friction material can be suppressed.

[0109] According to the embodiments of the washing machine described above, the translational amplitude of the washing tub, which occurs during pendulum resonance of the washing tub, can be reduced. Therefore, a washing machine capable of increasing washing capacity without increasing the external dimensions of the washing machine can be realized. By using a translational damper and a rotational damper together, the damping force of the damping device can be applied to the washing tub regardless of the direction in which the washing tub is translated.

[0110] The technical effects to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical effects mentioned above, and other technical effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present disclosure pertains from the description of this document.

[0111] As described above, although the washing machine of the present disclosure has been described with limited embodiments and drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit thereof.

Claims

1. Washing tub (11); A dehydration tank (12) rotatably positioned inside the washing tank; A housing (13) accommodating the above washing tank; A suspension (14) for hanging the washing tub in a substantially vertical direction in the housing; and It has a damping device (20) connecting the washing tank and the housing; The above damping device is, A translational damper (30) that applies a damping force in the translational direction to the above washing tank; It includes first and second rotary dampers (40a, 40b) that are respectively connected to both ends of the translational damper while securing a degree of freedom in the approximately vertical direction of the translational damper and that apply a damping force in the rotational direction to the washing tub; The above first rotary damper is connected to one end of the above translational damper and is positioned rotatably about a first rotary axis (Va) in a substantially vertical direction at the lower portion of the housing. A washing machine in which the second rotary damper is connected to the other end of the translation damper and is arranged to rotate around a second rotary axis (Vb) that is approximately vertical to the bottom of the washing tub.

2. In paragraph 1, A washing machine, wherein the damping device has damping in the circumferential direction of the first rotational axis of the first rotary damper and has damping in the circumferential direction of the second rotational axis of the second rotary damper.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, A washing machine in which the above-mentioned translational damper is rotatable around a third rotational axis (Ha) that is approximately horizontal with respect to the first rotational damper, and is rotatable around a fourth rotational axis (Hb) that is approximately horizontal with respect to the second rotational damper.

4. In paragraph 3, A washing machine in which the damping device has damping in the circumferential direction of the third rotational axis with respect to the first rotational damper of the translational damper and has damping in the circumferential direction of the fourth rotational axis with respect to the second rotational damper of the translational damper.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, A washing machine in which, when the washing tub moves translationally, the translational damper applies a damping force to the washing tub by expanding and contracting, the first rotary damper applies a damping force to the washing tub by rotating around the first rotational axis, and the second rotary damper applies a damping force to the washing tub by rotating around the second rotational axis.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, A washing machine in which the above translational damper is arranged to translate toward the rotational axis of the dehydrator.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, A washing machine in which the above-mentioned translational damper is positioned so as to be almost parallel to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16) when viewed in the vertical direction.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, A washing machine in which the above-mentioned translational damper is positioned so as to be almost perpendicular to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16) when viewed in the vertical direction.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, A washing machine wherein the first rotary damper is positioned near a corner of the lower portion of the housing.

10. In paragraph 9, A washing machine in which the second rotary damper is positioned so that, when viewed in a vertical direction, the direction from the first rotary damper to the second rotary damper is almost parallel to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16).

11. In paragraph 9, A washing machine in which the second rotary damper is positioned so that, when viewed in a vertical direction, the direction from the first rotary damper to the second rotary damper is almost perpendicular to the direction of the central axis (D) of the drain hose (16).

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, Each of the above first and second rotation dampers, A holder (41) fixed to a portion of the washing machine where the first rotation damper or the second rotation damper is placed and having a holder opening (415) in a substantially vertical direction; An arm (42) that is rotatably inserted into the holder opening, is connected to the translation damper, and has an arm opening (425) in a substantially vertical direction; A cap (43) inserted into the arm opening and fixed to the arm to prevent the arm from being vertically separated from the holder; A washing machine having a friction material (44) that is interposed horizontally between the holder and the arm and provides a rotational damping force when the arm is rotated relative to the holder.

13. In paragraph 12, A washing machine, wherein each of the first and second rotary dampers has an O-ring (45) interposed vertically between the holder and the arm.

14. In paragraph 12 or 13, A hanging opening (424) in a roughly horizontal direction is provided in the above arm. A washing machine having a cap having a hook (434) that is inserted into and caught in the hanging opening.

15. In any one of paragraphs 12 to 14, The above holder has a holder extension portion (416) formed to extend into the inside of the holder opening, The above cap has a cap extension (436) that is vertically opposed to the holder extension, The above friction material is interposed between the holder extension and the cap extension, A washing machine having a first wall portion (413) having a first thickness in a substantially horizontal direction of the holder extension portion, and a second wall portion (414) having a second thickness in a substantially horizontal direction thinner than the first thickness.

Images