Washing machine

Abstract

Provided is a washing machine that can prevent a liquid agent from remaining in a liquid agent discharge flow path. A washing machine according to the present disclosure comprises: a washing tub; a water supply device; a liquid agent tank for storing a liquid agent to be supplied to the washing tub; a guide flow path for guiding the liquid agent and water to the washing tub; a pipe part connected between the water supply device and the guide flow path and supplying, to the guide flow path, water supplied from the water supply device; and a liquid agent supply device having a discharge part for discharging the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tank to an internal flow path of the pipe part. The pipe part has: an upstream pipe extending in a direction including a component in a first horizontal direction; a downstream pipe extending in a direction including a component in a second horizontal direction opposite to the first horizontal direction; and a bent part that is bent and connects the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe. The discharge part of the liquid agent supply device is connected to the downstream pipe.

Description

washing machine

[0001] The present disclosure relates to washing machines.

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine including a washing tub, a water supply device, a liquid agent tank containing a liquid agent, a case that guides water and the liquid agent into the washing tub, a pipe section that supplies water from the water supply device to the case, and a liquid agent pump that discharges the liquid agent into the pipe section.

[0003] In the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, the pipe portion has a bent portion, and the discharge portion of the liquid agent pump is connected to the pipe portion upstream of the bent portion.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-87611

[0005] However, the washing machine described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in terms of the amount of liquid agent remaining in the pipe portion.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problem and to suppress the liquid agent from remaining in the tube portion.

[0007] A washing machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a washing tub, a water supply device, a liquid agent tank for storing a liquid agent to be supplied to the washing tub, a guide flow path for guiding the liquid agent and water to the washing tub, a pipe section connected between the water supply device and the guide flow path for supplying water supplied from the water supply device to the guide flow path, and a liquid agent supply device having a discharge section for discharging the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tank into an internal flow path of the pipe section, wherein the pipe section has an upstream pipe extending in a direction including a first horizontal component, a downstream pipe extending in a direction including a second horizontal component opposite to the first horizontal direction, and a bent section that bends to connect the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe, and the discharge section of the liquid agent supply device is connected to the downstream pipe.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine that suppresses the residue of liquid agent in the pipe portion can be provided.

[0009] 1. A perspective view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. 2. A schematic cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. 3. A perspective view of a liquid agent supply unit and a water supply device of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, as seen from the front. 4. A perspective view of a liquid agent supply unit and a water supply device of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, as seen from the rear. 5. An exploded view of a case of the liquid agent supply unit. 6. A schematic plan view of the liquid agent supply unit and the water supply device. 7. A perspective view of a pipe section of the liquid agent supply unit. 8. An exploded view of a pipe section of the liquid agent supply unit. 9. A cross-sectional view of a pipe section of the liquid agent supply unit. 10. A cross-sectional view of a tank housing section of a case of the liquid agent supply unit.

[0010] (First embodiment) A washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0011] [Overall Configuration] Fig. 1A is a perspective view of a washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 1B is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 1A, the washing machine 1 is a vertical washing machine, but is not limited thereto. The washing machine 1 may also be a drum washing machine or a washer-dryer.

[0012] In the following drawings, mutually orthogonal horizontal directions are referred to as the X direction and the Y direction, and the vertical direction orthogonal to both the X direction and the Y direction is referred to as the Z direction. The horizontal direction and the vertical direction are the horizontal direction and the vertical direction, respectively, when the washing machine 1 is used in a freestanding state. The X direction may also be referred to as the width direction, and the Y direction may also be referred to as the front-rear direction.

[0013] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B , the washing machine 1 includes a housing 2, an outer tub 3 ( FIG. 1B ), a washing tub 4, a drive unit 5 ( FIG. 1B ), a liquid supply unit 6, a water supply device 9 ( FIG. 1B ), a drain valve 11 ( FIG. 1B ), and a control unit 12 ( FIG. 1B ).

[0014] <Casing> The housing 2 is a component that forms the exterior of the washing machine 1. The housing 2 is divided into an upper part 2A and a lower part 2B below the upper part 2A. An opening 20 and an openable / closable lid 21 that covers the opening 20 are provided on the top surface of the upper part 2A. The upper part 2A houses the liquid agent supply unit 6, the water supply device 9, and the control unit 12. The lower part 2B houses the outer tub 3, the washing tub 4, the drive unit 5, and the drain valve 11. Note that the control unit 12 may be housed in the lower part 2B instead of the upper part 2A.

[0015] <Outer Tub> As shown in Figure 1B, the outer tub 3 is a roughly cylindrical member provided inside the lower part 2B of the housing 2 and functions to store wash water. The outer tub 3 may also be referred to as a water tub. The central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 extends along the Z direction and passes through the center of the bottom of the outer tub 3. The outer tub 3 has an opening 30 at a position facing the opening 20 of the housing 2.

[0016] <Washing Tub> The washing tub 4 is a generally cylindrical member that is rotatable around the central axis V0 inside the outer tub 3 and that accommodates laundry such as clothes. The washing tub 4 may also be referred to as an inner tub, a storage tub, or a drum. The washing tub 4 has a large number of through-holes 40 formed therein. The through-holes 40 connect the washing tub 4 and the outer tub 3, allowing the movement of wash water between the washing tub 4 and the outer tub 3. The washing tub 4 has an opening 41 facing the opening 20 in the housing 2 and the opening 30 in the outer tub 3. A user of the washing machine 1 can open the lid 21 and place laundry into the washing tub 4 through the openings 20, 30, and 41.

[0017] <Drive Unit> The drive unit 5 is a member that drives the washing tub 4 to rotate around the central axis V0. The drive unit 5 has, for example, a motor that rotates the washing tub 4.

[0018] <Liquid Agent Supply Unit> The liquid agent supply unit 6 is a device that automatically supplies a single dose of liquid agent from a tank that stores multiple doses of liquid agent to the washing tub 4. The single dose of liquid agent is an appropriate amount and type of liquid agent determined by the control unit 12 according to, for example, the contents of the operation course and the amount of laundry.

[0019] The liquid supply unit 6 is disposed on the rear side of the central axis V0 in the Y direction, and is disposed so as to overlap a part of the opening 41 of the washing tub 4.

[0020] <Water Supply Device> The water supply device 9 is connected to a water source such as a tap, and supplies water to the washing tub 4. Specifically, the water supply device 9 supplies water to the washing tub 4 via the liquid agent supply unit 6.

[0021] <Drain valve> The drain valve 11 is a valve that can be opened and closed, and when closed, it stores water in the outer tub 3, and when open, it drains the water stored in the outer tub 3. The drain valve 11 is provided at the bottom of the lower part 2B.

[0022] <Control Unit> Control unit 12 is a controller that controls washing machine 1. Control unit 12 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) that executes programs to achieve predetermined functions. Control unit 12 calls and executes programs stored in memory (not shown) to achieve various controls in washing machine 1. Control unit 12 is not limited to a controller that achieves predetermined functions through cooperation between hardware and software, and may be a hardware circuit designed specifically to achieve predetermined functions.

[0023] Specifically, the control unit 12 controls the drive unit 5 , the liquid supply unit 6 , the water supply device 9 , and the drain valve 11 .

[0024] 2A and 2B are perspective views of the liquid drug supply unit 6 and the water supply device 9 as seen from the front and rear, respectively. FIG.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the liquid supply unit 6 has a case 61, a plurality of liquid tanks 62 (FIG. 2A), a plurality of liquid pumps 63, and a pipe section 64 (FIG. 2B).

[0026] As shown in Fig. 3, the case 61 has two separate upper and lower members, a tank housing portion 61A and a flow path portion 61B. The tank housing portion 61A is a member that houses a plurality of liquid agent tanks 62. In the first embodiment, the tank housing portion 61A houses three liquid agent tanks 62 arranged in the X direction (see Fig. 2A). The flow path portion 61B is a member that forms a flow path that guides the liquid toward the washing tub 4.

[0027] 2A , each of the plurality of liquid agent tanks 62 is a container for storing a plurality of doses of liquid agent to be supplied to the washing tub 4 in an operation course. Each liquid agent tank 62 may contain a different type of liquid agent from the other liquid agent tanks 62, or may contain the same type of liquid agent.

[0028] Each liquid agent tank 62 is detachable from the tank accommodating portion 61A so that the user can easily clean the inside or refill the liquid agent.

[0029] 2B, the wall on the +Y side of the case 61 (the tank accommodation portion 61A and the flow path portion 61B), i.e., the rear wall of the case 61, is defined as a pump penetration surface 61C. The pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 is the side wall of the case 61 that faces the rear surface of the housing 2 (FIG. 1B). A plurality of liquid agent pumps 63 and pipe portions 64 are provided on the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61.

[0030] Each liquid pump 63 is a device that sucks a predetermined amount of liquid from one liquid tank 62 and discharges it to the pipe section 64. Each liquid pump 63 is connected to one liquid tank 62 and the pipe section 64. Each liquid pump 63 penetrates the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 and is connected to one liquid tank 62 from the Y direction. Each liquid pump 63 is disposed directly above the pipe section 64 and is connected to the pipe section 64 from above. Therefore, each liquid pump 63 sucks the liquid in the Y direction and discharges it downward.

[0031] In this specification, "connected" includes a direct connection and a connection via another member or space.

[0032] The plurality of liquid pumps 63 are arranged at intervals in the X direction. In the first embodiment, the plurality of liquid pumps 63 have a common structure.

[0033] Pipe portion 64 is a tubular member that connects water supply device 9 and flow path portion 61B and supplies water supplied from water supply device 9 to flow path portion 61B. In embodiment 1, pipe portion 64 is connected to water supply device 9 via a water supply pipe 92 (described below) in tank accommodating portion 61A. That is, water supplied from water supply device 9 passes through water supply pipe 92 and flows into pipe portion 64. Pipe portion 64 has an internal flow path R0 therein through which water flows.

[0034] The pipe portion 64 is further connected to the liquid pump 63 and receives the liquid discharged from the liquid pump 63. The discharged liquid is carried by the flow of water in the internal flow path R0 and supplied to the flow path portion 61B through the internal flow path R0.

[0035] In this specification, when a tubular member is connected to another member, it means that the flow path inside the tubular member communicates with the inside of the other member.

[0036] 3, flow path portion 61B of case 61 forms guide flow path 65 that guides the liquid agent and water that have flowed into flow path portion 61B to washing tub 4, and opening 66. An inner bottom surface S0 of flow path portion 61B in guide flow path 65 is inclined downward toward opening 66. The liquid agent and water that have flowed into guide flow path 65 flow toward opening 66 and are guided to washing tub 4 through opening 66.

[0037] The guide flow path 65 is defined by a plurality of wall portions 67 protruding upward from the inner bottom surface S0 of the flow path portion 61B. The opening 66 is located above the opening 41 of the washing tub 4.

[0038] The pipe portion 64 supplies the water and the liquid agent flowing through the internal flow path R0 to the guide flow path 65 of the flow path portion 61B. In other words, the internal flow path R0 of the pipe portion 64 is in communication with the guide flow path 65. The water and the liquid agent supplied to the guide flow path 65 are supplied to the washing tub 4 through the opening 66.

[0039] 2B, the water supply device 9 is disposed on the rear side (+Y side) of the case 61. The water supply device 9 is disposed at the end of the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 on the +X side.

[0040] The water supply device 9 has a water supply valve 91 .

[0041] The water supply valve 91 is a valve connected to a water supply. In the first embodiment, the water supply valve 91 is a component having a plurality of electromagnetic valves connected to the water supply. The open / closed state of each electromagnetic valve can be switched via the control unit 12.

[0042] The water supply valve 91 is connected to a water supply pipe 92 formed in the tank housing portion 61A of the case 61. As shown in FIG. 3, the water supply pipe 92 is a tubular member having multiple flow paths that guide water from the water supply valve 91. The flow paths in the water supply pipe 92 can be switched by switching the open / close state of the electromagnetic valve of the water supply valve 91. Of the multiple flow paths, the water supply pipe 92 has a water supply flow path L0 ( FIG. 2B ) inside that supplies water to the pipe portion 64. The water supply flow path L0 is connected to the internal flow path R0 of the pipe portion 64.

[0043] The configuration of the liquid pump 63 and the pipe section 64 will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a schematic plan view of the liquid supply unit 6 and the water supply device 9. In Fig. 4, the lid covering the top of the tank housing section 61A of the case 61 is omitted, and the components are illustrated in a schematic manner so that the connection relationships between the components can be seen.

[0044] 4, each of the liquid pumps 63 has a suction portion 71 and a discharge portion 72. The suction portion 71 is a tubular member that sucks the liquid from the liquid tank 62. The discharge portion 72 is a tubular member that discharges the liquid into the pipe portion 64. The discharge portion 72 forms a discharge port 72A at its tip.

[0045] Each suction portion 71 is connected to the corresponding liquid agent tank 62 in the Y direction through an opening 68 (see FIG. 3) formed in the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61. Each discharge portion 72 is connected to the pipe portion 64 from above. The multiple discharge portions 72 are connected to the pipe portion 64 at intervals in the X direction. The discharge port 72A communicates with the internal flow path R0 of the pipe portion 64.

[0046] The pipe portion 64 has an upstream pipe 87 , a downstream pipe 88 , and a bent portion 82 .

[0047] The upstream pipe 87 is connected to the water supply pipe 92 of the tank accommodation portion 61A and is a tubular member extending from upstream to downstream in a direction including the −X component. The upstream pipe 87 is connected to the water supply pipe 92 via the inlet pipe 87S. In the first embodiment, the upstream pipe 87 extends in the −X direction downstream of the inlet pipe 87S along the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 in a plan view.

[0048] The downstream pipe 88 is a tubular member connected to the case 61, specifically to the pump through-surface 61C of the flow path portion 61B, and extends in a direction including the +X component. The downstream pipe 88 is connected to the pump through-surface 61C of the flow path portion 61B via the outflow pipe 88S. In the first embodiment, the downstream pipe 88 extends in the +X direction along the pump through-surface 61C in a plan view, upstream of the outflow pipe 88S. That is, the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 extend parallel to each other and in opposite directions. On the other hand, the inflow pipe 87S and the outflow pipe 88S extend in a direction different from the X direction, that is, in the Y direction toward the pump through-surface 61C.

[0049] The bending portion 82 is a tubular member that connects the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88, and is bent between the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88. Specifically, the bending portion 82 is bent along the XY plane. Therefore, the pipe portion 64 has a shape that is bent 180 degrees in a plan view, and the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 extend side by side in the Y direction in a plan view.

[0050] In a plan view, the downstream pipe 88 is disposed closer to the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 than the upstream pipe 87. In other words, the upstream pipe 87 is farther from the pump penetration surface 61C than the downstream pipe 88. Because the water supply pipe 92 protrudes in the +Y direction beyond the pump penetration surface 61C on the -X side, even if the upstream pipe 87 connected to the water supply pipe 92 is located away from the pump penetration surface 61C, the connection of the pipe section 64 is easy. A stable connection between the upstream pipe 87 and the water supply pipe 92 can be ensured, while a stable connection between the downstream pipe 88 and the case 61 can also be ensured.

[0051] The upstream pipe 87 has an internal flow path R1 through which the liquid flows. The downstream pipe 88 has an internal flow path R2 through which the liquid flows. The internal flow paths R1 and R2 communicate with each other via a bent portion 82.

[0052] The discharge portion 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88 while being disposed so as to overlap both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88. Therefore, the discharge port 72A communicates with the internal flow path R2, and the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 flows into the internal flow path R2. On the other hand, the discharge portion 72 is blocked from the upstream pipe 87 (see the hatched area). Therefore, the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 flows into the internal flow path R2, not into the internal flow path R1.

[0053] As described above, the internal flow path R1 is a flow path for flowing water, and the internal flow path R2 is a flow path for flowing water and a liquid agent.

[0054] An inlet pipe 87S extending from the end of the upstream pipe 87 has a connection port 73 connected to a water supply pipe 92. An outlet pipe 88S extending from the end of the downstream pipe 88 has a connection port 74 connected to the pump penetration surface 61C of the flow path portion 61B downstream of the discharge portion 72. The connection port 73 communicates with the water supply flow path L0 of the water supply pipe 92, and the connection port 74 communicates with the guide flow path 65 of the flow path portion 61B.

[0055] Because pipe portion 64 has a folded shape, it is easy to arrange connection ports 73 and 74 adjacent to each other. Connection port 74 is located closer to connection port 73 than to bent portion 82, i.e., closer to water supply pipe 92 than to bent portion 82. Because guide flow path 65 is located near water supply pipe 92, it is easy to arrange connection port 74 close to guide flow path 65.

[0056] Here, the flow of water and liquid agent through pipe portion 64 will be described. Water flows from water supply pipe 92 of tank accommodation portion 61A through connection port 73 into upstream pipe 87 of pipe portion 64. The water bends at bent portion 82 and flows into downstream pipe 88, where it merges with and mixes with the liquid agent discharged from discharge port 72. The mixed liquid of water and liquid agent (i.e., wash water) flows into guide flow path 65 of flow path portion 61B through connection port 74. The wash water that has flowed into guide flow path 65 flows along guide flow path 65 and is supplied to washing tub 4 through opening 66.

[0057] The pipe portion 64 further has a connection port 75, separate from the connection port 74, that is connected to the flow path portion 61B of the case 61. The connection port 75 is located downstream of the connection port 73 and upstream of the plurality of discharge portions 72, and is connected to the flow path portion 61B at a position different from the connection port 74.

[0058] A portion of the water that flows from the water supply pipe 92 into the pipe section 64 flows into the flow path section 61B through the connection port 75 before merging with the liquid agent. The water that flows into the flow path section 61B from the connection port 75 flows below the connection section of the liquid agent tank 62 with the liquid agent pump 63. The area below the connection section of the liquid agent tank 62 is easily soiled by the liquid agent that drips from the connection section when the liquid agent tank 62 is removed. The water that flows into the flow path section 61B from the connection port 75 can be used to wash away areas that are easily soiled.

[0059] Returning to FIG. 3, the water supply pipe 92 of the tank housing portion 61A forms a connection port 93 to which the connection port 73 of the pipe portion 64 is connected.

[0060] The flow path portion 61B of the case 61 forms connection ports 76 and 77 to which connection ports 74 and 75 of the pipe portion 64 are respectively connected.

[0061] 3 and 4, the flow path portion 61B is provided with a set of multiple protrusions 69 that protrude upward from the inner bottom surface S0 of the flow path portion 61B of the case 61 midway along the guide flow path 65. The wash water flowing through the guide flow path 65 collides with the multiple protrusions 69. This configuration allows the flow of the wash water to be slowed down.

[0062] 4 , connection port 74 is located near the upstream side of multiple protrusions 69. Connection port 74 is located on the +X side of multiple discharge ports 72, and is located at the +X side end of downstream pipe 88. Therefore, the distance in the X direction between connection port 74 and multiple protrusions 69 can be reduced, and wash water supplied from pipe portion 64 to flow path portion 61B can be more reliably caused to collide with multiple protrusions 69.

[0063] Next, the pipe portion 64 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 5A, 5B, and 6. Figure 5A is a perspective view of the pipe portion 64. Figure 5B is an exploded view of the pipe portion 64. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe portion 64 as viewed from the Y direction, showing the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88.

[0064] 5A, in the first embodiment, the upstream pipe 87, the downstream pipe 88, and the bent portion 82 are integrally formed. The upstream pipe 87, the downstream pipe 88, and the bent portion 82 are formed, for example, from a common resin molded part.

[0065] Connection ports 79 into which the discharge portions 72 of the liquid pumps 63 are inserted are formed at the top of the tube portion 64. Three connection ports 79 are provided corresponding to the three liquid pumps 63, respectively. The connection ports 79 open upward and receive the discharge portions 72 extending in the Z direction. The connection ports 79 may further be provided with packing for sealing the discharge portions 72.

[0066] Connection ports 73, 74, and 75 are formed in the front wall of the pipe portion 64. The connection ports 73, 74, and 75 open in the Y direction, which intersects with the opening direction of the connection port 79 (the Z direction).

[0067] 5B, the pipe portion 64 is divided in the Z direction into two members 64A and 64B. The members 64A and 64B are joined by, for example, vibration welding.

[0068] The pipe portion 64 has a partition wall portion 83 that separates an upstream pipe 87 and a downstream pipe 88. The partition wall portion 83 protrudes upward from the inner bottom surface of the pipe portion 64 and extends in the X direction. The partition wall portion 83 defines the upstream pipe 87 with its side surface on the +Y side, and defines the downstream pipe 88 with its side surface on the -Y side. In other words, the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 are adjacent to each other with the partition wall portion 83 interposed therebetween.

[0069] The end of the partition wall portion 83 on the −X direction side forms a gap G with the side wall of the pipe portion 64. The pipe portion 64 around the gap G forms a bent portion 82. An internal flow path R1 of the upstream pipe 87 and an internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88 communicate with each other via the gap G.

[0070] 6, the partition wall portion 83 is formed by both the members 64A and 64B. In other words, the partition wall portion 83 is divided in the Z direction.

[0071] When viewed from the Y direction, the upstream pipe 87 at least partially overlaps with the downstream pipe 88. As shown in Figure 6, when viewed from the Y direction, the inner bottom surface S1 (see dotted line) of the upstream pipe 87 is at least partially located between the inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 and the upper inner wall surface S3 of the downstream pipe 88 that faces the inner bottom surface S2.

[0072] The inner bottom surface S1 of the upstream pipe 87 is inclined downward with respect to the horizontal in the -X direction. The inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 is inclined downward with respect to the horizontal in the +X direction. The inner bottom surface S1 of the upstream pipe 87 and the inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 have the same inclination angle with respect to the horizontal. The inclination angle of the inner bottom surfaces S1 and S2 is, for example, 1.5°.

[0073] Fig. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the tube portion 64. Fig. 7B is a plan view of a portion of the tube portion 64.

[0074] 7A , when viewed from the X direction, connection port 79 provided on the upper surface of pipe portion 64 is located near the center of pipe portion 64 in the Y direction and overlaps with both upstream pipe 87 and downstream pipe 88. Therefore, discharge portion 72 connected to connection port 79 is positioned so as to overlap with both upstream pipe 87 and downstream pipe 88 in a plan view.

[0075] With this configuration, it is easier to shift the liquid pump 63 connected to the connection port 79 to the +Y side compared to when the connection port 79 overlaps only with the downstream pipe 88. Therefore, the dimension of the liquid tank 62 in the Y direction can be increased to match the position of the liquid pump 63, thereby increasing the volume of the liquid tank 62. Furthermore, the pipe portion 64 can stably support the liquid pump 63 from below.

[0076] In the first embodiment, the connection port 79 is located above the partition wall portion 83. In the first embodiment, when viewed from the X direction, the center of the connection port 79 is located directly above the partition wall portion 83. On the other hand, when viewed from the X direction, the center of the connection port 79 may be shifted with respect to the partition wall portion 83 between a position where the −Y direction wall portion of the connection port 79 overlaps with the front wall 64C and a position where the +Y direction wall portion of the connection port 79 overlaps with the rear wall of the pipe portion 64.

[0077] The upstream pipe 87 has a guide portion 85 at a position overlapping with the connection port 79 (i.e., the discharge portion 72) that guides the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 toward the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88. The guide portion 85 extends between the side wall 84 of the upstream pipe 87 and the partition portion 83, and is inclined downward (toward the −Y side) toward the downstream pipe 88 with respect to the horizontal.

[0078] 7B , guide portion 85 includes a wall portion having a shape corresponding to the area of ​​connection port 79 that overlaps with upstream pipe 87 in a plan view. In the first embodiment, guide portion 85 includes a wall portion having a shape that matches the area of ​​connection port 79 that overlaps with upstream pipe 87 in a plan view. Because connection port 79 is circular, guide portion 85 includes a wall portion having an arched shape in a plan view.

[0079] 7A , the internal flow path R1 of the upstream pipe 87 is sealed off from the connection port 79 (i.e., the discharge portion 72) by the guide portion 85 and the partition portion 83. With this configuration, even when the connection port 79 is located near the center of the pipe portion 64, the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 can flow into the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88, rather than into the internal flow path R1 of the upstream pipe 87.

[0080] On the other hand, the internal flow path R2 of the downstream pipe 88 communicates with the connection port 79 (i.e., the discharge portion 72). That is, the discharge portion 72 is connected to the downstream pipe 88, and the liquid agent is discharged into the internal flow path R2. With this configuration, the distance over which the liquid agent flows in the pipe portion 64 is reduced compared to when the liquid agent is discharged into the internal flow path R1 of the upstream pipe 87, thereby reducing the possibility that the liquid agent will remain.

[0081] Furthermore, the discharge port 72A formed at the end of the discharge portion 72 is positioned lower than the connection port 79. For example, the distance D1 in the Z direction between the end of the discharge portion 72 and the connection port 79 is greater than the distance D2 in the Z direction between the end of the discharge portion 72 and the guide portion 85. With this configuration, the liquid pump 63 can be shifted downward. Therefore, it is possible to increase the dimension of the liquid tank 62 in the Z direction to match the position of the liquid pump 63, and the volume of the liquid tank 62 can be increased.

[0082] The connection port 79 is spaced apart in the +Y direction from the front wall 64C of the pipe portion 64. A step 86 is formed on the -Y side of the connection port 79. With this configuration, interference with parts of the liquid pump 63 that protrude downward can be avoided.

[0083] The width W2 of the internal flow channel R2 in the Y direction is larger than the width W1 of the internal flow channel R1 in the Y direction. When the width W2 of the internal flow channel R2 in the Y direction is larger than the width W1 of the internal flow channel R1 in the Y direction, the liquid flows more easily in the internal flow channel R2 through which the liquid agent flows in addition to water. On the other hand, the width W2 of the internal flow channel R2 may be the same as the width W1 of the internal flow channel R1, or may be smaller than the width W1 of the internal flow channel R1.

[0084] Next, the water supply pipe 92 of the tank housing portion 61A will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the tank housing portion 61A of the case 61.

[0085] 8, the water supply pipe 92 has a wall 96 extending along the Z direction. The wall 96 defines a water supply flow path L0 on both sides (the +Y side and the −Y side). In other words, the water supply flow path L0 defined by the wall 96 is folded back in the Z direction.

[0086] Water from the water supply valve 91 flows into a flow path L1 on the +Y side of the wall 96 and accumulates in the flow path L1. When the water level in the flow path L1 exceeds the upper end of the wall 96, the water overflows from the flow path L1 and flows into a flow path L2 on the -Y side of the wall 96 (see arrow A1). The water that has flowed into the flow path L2 flows into the pipe 64 (not shown) through the connection port 93 (see arrow A2).

[0087] An opening 95 is provided in the wall of the water supply pipe 92 located downstream of the flow path L1 and near the upper end of the wall 96. The opening 95 is located above a plurality of protrusions 69 provided in the guide flow path 65.

[0088] A portion of the water that has flowed into the flow path L2 passes through the opening 95 and falls onto the plurality of protrusions 69 in the guide flow path 65 (see arrow A3). When the wash water is flowing through the guide flow path 65, the water falling from the opening 95 hits the wash water that has been slowed down by the plurality of protrusions 69, and can create foam in the wash water.

[0089] [Summary] The above description will be summarized to describe the features of the present disclosure.

[0090] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the pipe 64 that guides water and the liquid agent toward the flow path 61B of the case 61 has a shape bent by a bending portion 82. The liquid agent pump 63 is connected to a downstream pipe 88 downstream of the bending portion 82. When the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88, the distance that the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 travels in the pipe 64 can be shortened compared to when the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the upstream pipe 87. This reduces the possibility that the liquid agent will remain in the pipe 64. In other words, the possibility that the pipe 64 will become clogged can be reduced.

[0091] The discharge portion 72 of the chemical pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88 and is positioned so as to overlap both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 in a plan view. Compared to when the discharge portion 72 is positioned so as to overlap only the downstream pipe 88, the chemical pump 63 can be shifted rearward (in the +Y direction) toward the rear surface of the housing 2. The dimension of the chemical tank 62 in the Y direction can be increased to match the position of the chemical pump 63, thereby increasing the volume of the chemical tank 62. This reduces the number of times the chemical tank 62 needs to be refilled, improving the usability of the washing machine 1 for the user.

[0092] While discharge portion 72 overlaps with both upstream pipe 87 and downstream pipe 88, guide portion 85 is provided between discharge portion 72 and upstream pipe 87. Therefore, the liquid agent discharged from the part of discharge portion 72 overlapping with upstream pipe 87 is guided along guide portion 85 toward internal flow path R2 of downstream pipe 88. Even when discharge portion 72 overlaps with both upstream pipe 87 and downstream pipe 88, the liquid agent can be prevented from flowing into upstream pipe 87.

[0093] [Effects] According to the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the following effects can be achieved.

[0094] Washing machine 1 of embodiment 1 includes washing tub 4, water supply device 9, liquid agent tank 62, guide flow path 65, pipe section 64, and liquid agent supply device (liquid agent pump 63). Liquid agent tank 62 stores liquid agent to be supplied to washing tub 4. Guide flow path 65 guides liquid agent and water to washing tub 4. Pipe section 64 is connected between water supply device 9 and guide flow path 65 and supplies water supplied from water supply device 9 to guide flow path 65. Liquid agent pump 63 has discharge section 72 that discharges liquid agent stored in liquid agent tank 62 into internal flow path R0 of pipe section 64. Pipe section 64 has upstream pipe 87 extending in a direction including a component of a first horizontal direction (−X direction), downstream pipe 88 extending in a direction including a component of a second horizontal direction (+X direction) opposite to the −X direction, and bent section 82 that bends to connect upstream pipe 87 and downstream pipe 88. The discharge portion 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88 .

[0095] With this configuration, the distance that the liquid agent discharged from the discharge portion 72 flows in the pipe portion 64 can be shortened compared to when the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the upstream pipe 87. Therefore, the possibility that the liquid agent will remain in the pipe portion 64 can be reduced.

[0096] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the discharge part 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88 from above.

[0097] With this configuration, the Y-direction dimensions of the liquid pump 63 and the pipe portion 64 can be reduced compared to when the liquid pump 63 is connected to the downstream pipe 88 from the horizontal direction, while suppressing residual liquid. Therefore, the space inside the housing 2 can be used effectively.

[0098] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the discharge portion 72 of the liquid agent pump 63 is disposed at a position overlapping both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 in a plan view.

[0099] With this configuration, the dimension of the liquid pump 63 and the pipe portion 64 in the Y direction can be further reduced.

[0100] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the pipe portion 64 has a guide portion 85 that guides the liquid agent from the position overlapping with the discharge portion 72 toward the downstream pipe 88 .

[0101] With this configuration, even when the discharge portion 72 overlaps with both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 , the liquid agent can be prevented from flowing into the upstream pipe 87 .

[0102] In washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, guide portion 85 extends at a position overlapping discharge portion 72 and inclined downward relative to the horizontal toward downstream pipe 88 .

[0103] With this configuration, the liquid agent discharged toward the guide portion 85 can be guided to the downstream pipe 88 by gravity, and the liquid agent can be further prevented from flowing into the upstream pipe 87.

[0104] In washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, pipe section 64 has partition section 83 that separates upstream pipe 87 and downstream pipe 88, and upstream pipe 87 and downstream pipe 88 are adjacent to each other via partition section 83.

[0105] With this configuration, the structure of the pipe portion 64 can be simplified while preventing the liquid from flowing into the upstream pipe 87 .

[0106] In the washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, the downstream pipe 88 extends in the X direction along the first wall portion (pump penetration surface 61C) of the case 61 that houses the liquid agent tank 62, and is connected to the pump penetration surface 61C.

[0107] With this configuration, the downstream pipe 88 can be stably connected to the case 61.

[0108] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the upstream pipe 87 is located farther from the pump through-hole surface 61C than the downstream pipe 88 in a plan view.

[0109] With this configuration, the downstream pipe 88 can be disposed close to the case 61 and can be stably connected to the case 61 .

[0110] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the liquid pump 63 is disposed directly above the pipe portion 64 and passes through the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 to be connected to the liquid tank 62 .

[0111] With this configuration, the liquid pump 63 can suck up the liquid and discharge it downward into the pipe portion 64.

[0112] In washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, guide channel 65 is provided with a plurality of protrusions 69 protruding upward from the inner bottom surface (the inner bottom surface of channel portion 61B). Water supply device 9 has a water supply valve 91 connected to a water source. Washing machine 1 further includes water supply pipe 92 connecting water supply valve 91 and upstream pipe 87. Water supply pipe 92 communicates with guide channel 65 and has an opening 95 located above the plurality of protrusions 69.

[0113] With this configuration, the washing water can be foamed by splashing the water flowing out from the opening 95 onto the washing water whose velocity has been reduced by the plurality of protrusions 69.

[0114] In washing machine 1 of embodiment 1, downstream pipe 88 is connected to case 61 at a position closer to multiple protrusions 69 than discharge portion 72 in a plan view.

[0115] With this configuration, the connection port 74 can be disposed close to the plurality of protrusions 69. Therefore, the wash water flowing out from the pipe portion 64 can be made to collide with the plurality of protrusions 69 more reliably.

[0116] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but can be embodied in various other forms.

[0117] Although the example in which the washing machine 1 has a plurality of each of the liquid agent tanks 62 and the liquid agent pumps 63 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the washing machine 1 may have one liquid agent tank 62 or one liquid agent pump 63. One liquid agent pump 63 may have multiple discharge portions 72. Furthermore, when the washing machine 1 has multiple liquid agent pumps 63, it is sufficient that one or more liquid agent pumps 63 are connected to the downstream pipe 88 of the pipe portion 64.

[0118] Although the liquid pump 63 has been described as an example of the liquid supply device, the liquid supply device is not limited to this and may be a simple supply device using an aspirator or an electromagnetic valve.

[0119] Although the example in which the liquid pump 63 is directly connected to the pipe portion 64 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the liquid pump 63 may be connected to the pipe portion 64 via another tubular member.

[0120] Although the example in which the liquid pump 63 is connected to the pipe portion 64 from above has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the liquid pump 63 may be connected to the side wall or the bottom wall of the pipe portion 64.

[0121] Although the example in which the water supply path to the washing tub 4 is configured by the water supply device 9, the water supply pipe 92, the pipe portion 64, and the flow path portion 61B has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the pipe portion 64 may be directly connected to the washing tub 4, and water supplied from the water supply device 9 may be supplied to the washing tub 4 without passing through the flow path portion 61B. In this case, a part of the pipe portion 64, for example, a part of the downstream pipe 88, may serve as the guide flow path 65. Furthermore, another member may be connected to the end of the pipe portion 64 as the guide flow path 65.

[0122] Although the upstream pipe 87, downstream pipe 88, and partition wall 83 extend in the X direction in the above example, the present invention is not limited to this. The upstream pipe 87, downstream pipe 88, and partition wall 83 may extend in a direction including the Y component or the Z component. Furthermore, the upstream pipe 87 and downstream pipe 88 may be inclined relative to the horizontal in order to allow the liquid to flow in the internal flow paths R1 and R2.

[0123] Although the example in which the discharge portion 72 overlaps with both the upstream pipe 87 and the downstream pipe 88 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The discharge portion 72 may overlap only with the downstream pipe 88 in plan view.

[0124] Although the example in which the downstream pipe 88 is located between the upstream pipe 87 and the case 61 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The upstream pipe 87 may be located between the downstream pipe 88 and the case 61.

[0125] Although the example in which the inner bottom surface S1 of the upstream pipe 87 and the inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 have the same inclination angle with respect to the horizontal has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the inclination angle of the inner bottom surface S2 of the downstream pipe 88 may be larger than that of the inner bottom surface S1 of the upstream pipe 87. This configuration can further reduce the amount of liquid agent remaining.

[0126] Although the example in which the downstream pipe 88 is connected to the pump penetration surface 61C of the case 61 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the downstream pipe 88 may be connected to another side wall of the case 61.

[0127] Although the example in which the guide portion 85 extends between the side wall 84 of the tube portion 64 and the partition portion 83 has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. There may be a gap between the guide portion 85 and the partition portion 83 in the Z direction. Furthermore, although the example in which the guide portion 85 includes a wall portion has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. The guide portion 85 may have a structure of any shape that guides the ejected liquid agent toward the downstream tube 88.

[0128] The washing machine in a first aspect includes a washing tub, a water supply device, a liquid agent tank that stores liquid agent to be supplied to the washing tub, a guide flow path that guides liquid agent and water to the washing tub, a pipe section connected between the water supply device and the guide flow path and that supplies water supplied from the water supply device to the guide flow path, and a liquid agent supply device having a discharge section that discharges the liquid agent stored in the liquid agent tank into an internal flow path of the pipe section, wherein the pipe section has an upstream pipe extending in a direction that includes a first horizontal component, a downstream pipe extending in a direction that includes a second horizontal component that is opposite to the first horizontal direction, and a bent section that bends to connect between the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe, and the discharge section of the liquid agent supply device is connected to the downstream pipe.

[0129] In the washing machine of the second aspect, in the washing machine of the first aspect, the discharge portion of the liquid agent supplying device is connected to the downstream pipe from above.

[0130] In a third aspect, the washing machine is the washing machine of the second aspect, wherein the discharge portion of the liquid agent supplying device is arranged at a position overlapping both the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe in a plan view.

[0131] In a fourth aspect, the washing machine is the washing machine of the second or third aspect, wherein the pipe portion has a guide portion that guides the liquid agent from a position overlapping with the discharge portion toward the downstream pipe.

[0132] In a fifth aspect, in the washing machine of the fourth aspect, the guide portion extends at an incline downward from the horizontal toward the downstream pipe at a position where the guide portion overlaps the discharge portion.

[0133] In a sixth aspect, the washing machine is a washing machine according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the pipe section has a partition section that separates the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe, and the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe are adjacent to each other via the partition section.

[0134] The washing machine in the seventh aspect is a washing machine in any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the downstream pipe extends in a second horizontal direction along a first wall portion of the case that houses the liquid agent tank and is connected to the first wall portion.

[0135] In an eighth aspect, in the washing machine of the seventh aspect, the upstream pipe is located farther from the first wall portion than the downstream pipe in a plan view.

[0136] A washing machine in a ninth aspect is a washing machine in either the seventh or eighth aspect, wherein the liquid agent supply device is arranged directly above the pipe portion and is connected to the liquid agent tank through the first wall portion of the case.

[0137] A washing machine in a tenth aspect is a washing machine in any one of the seventh to ninth aspects, wherein the guide flow path is provided with a plurality of protrusions protruding upward from the inner bottom surface, and the water supply device has a water supply valve connected to a water source and further includes a water supply pipe connecting the water supply valve and the upstream pipe, and the water supply pipe has an opening communicating with the guide flow path and located above the plurality of protrusions.

[0138] In an eleventh aspect, in the washing machine of the tenth aspect, the downstream pipe is connected to the case at a position closer to the plurality of protrusions than to the discharge portion in a plan view.

[0139] Although the present disclosure has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications are to be understood as included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims unless they depart therefrom.

[0140] The washing machine of the present disclosure, when equipped with an automatic liquid dispensing function, can increase the tank volume and reduce residual liquid, making it useful as a home washing machine, a commercial washing machine, or any type of washer-dryer.

[0141] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Washing machine 2 Housing 3 Outer tub 4 Washing tub 5 Drive section 6 Liquid agent supply unit 9 Water supply device 11 Drain valve 12 Control section 61 Case 61A Tank storage section 61B Flow path section 61C Pump penetration surface 62 Liquid agent tank 63 Liquid agent pump 64 Pipe section 65 Guide flow path 66 Opening 69 Projection 72 Discharge section 73 Connection port 74 Connection port 82 Bent section 83 Partition section 85 Guide section 87 Upstream pipe 88 Downstream pipe

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising: a washing tub; a water supply device; a chemical tank for storing a chemical to be supplied to the washing tub; a guiding flow path for guiding the chemical and water to the washing tub; a pipe section connected between the water supply device and the guiding flow path for supplying water supplied from the water supply device to the guiding flow path; and a chemical supply device having a discharging section for discharging the chemical stored in the chemical tank into an internal flow path of the pipe section, wherein the pipe section has an upstream pipe extending in a direction including a first horizontal component, a downstream pipe extending in a direction including a second horizontal component opposite to the first horizontal direction, and a bent section bent to connect between the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe, and the discharging section of the chemical supply device is connected to the downstream pipe.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the discharging section of the chemical supply device is connected to the downstream pipe from above.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the discharging section of the chemical supply device is arranged at a position overlapping both the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe in a plan view.

4. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the pipe section has a guiding portion for guiding the chemical from a position overlapping the discharging section toward the downstream pipe.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the guiding portion extends obliquely downward toward the downstream pipe with respect to the horizontal at a position overlapping the discharging section.

6. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the pipe section has a partition portion separating the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe, and the upstream pipe and the downstream pipe are adjacent to each other via the partition portion.

7. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the downstream pipe extends in the second horizontal direction along a first wall portion of a case accommodating the chemical tank and is connected to the first wall portion.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein the upstream pipe is located at a position farther from the first wall portion than the downstream pipe in a plan view.

9. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein the chemical supply device is arranged directly above the pipe section and is connected to the chemical tank through the first wall portion of the case.

10. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein a plurality of protrusions protruding upward from an inner bottom surface are provided in the guiding flow path, the water supply device has a water supply valve connected to a water source, and further includes a water supply pipe connecting the water supply valve and the upstream pipe, and the water supply pipe communicates with the guiding flow path and has an opening located above the plurality of protrusions.

11. The washing machine according to claim 10, wherein the downstream pipe is connected to the case at a position closer to the plurality of protrusions than the discharge portion in a plan view.

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