CN104204333B - Device for clothing processing - Google Patents

Abstract

The present application discloses a clothes processing device (100), which includes: a storage tank (200) for storing clothes; a steam generator (420) for generating steam sprayed to the storage tank (200); the steam generator (420 ) for heating the heater (425); injecting the steam nozzle (352) into the storage tank (200); and guiding the steam from the steam generator (420) to the nozzle (352) guide tube (340). The guide pipe (340) includes a branch pipe (351) having: a main pipe (354) into which the steam flows; a first pipe (353) facing the nozzle (352); and different The second tube (356) on the first tube (353). The first pipe (353) includes a portion disposed above a branch portion of the branch pipe (351).

Description

Clothes treatment device

technical field

The present invention relates to a laundry treatment device for washing, dehydrating and/or drying laundry.

Background technique

A washing machine has been developed that sterilizes laundry by supplying steam (see Patent Document 1). The washing machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 uses a heater to heat water flowing in a pipe to generate steam. The steam is supplied from the steam generator to the storage tank for storing the clothes. As a result, the storage tank was filled with steam.

Water generally contains impurities. When water is evaporated to generate steam, impurities in the water may be precipitated. The precipitation of impurities in the steam generating system for generating and supplying steam sometimes also induces clogging of the steam supply path. Or, as a result of precipitation of impurities, the heat transfer rate to water may also decrease.

prior art literature

patent documents

Patent Document 1: European Patent No. 1863968

Contents of the invention

An object of the present invention is to provide a laundry treatment device having a structure capable of properly treating impurities in water.

A clothes processing device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a storage tank for storing clothes; a steam generator for generating steam sprayed to the storage tank; a heater for heating the steam generator; a nozzle, injecting the steam into the storage tank; and a guide pipe guiding the steam from the steam generator to the nozzle. The guide pipe includes a branch pipe having: a main pipe into which the steam flows; a first pipe facing the nozzle; and a second pipe different from the first pipe. The first pipe includes a portion disposed above a branch portion of the branch pipe.

The clothes treating device according to the present invention can properly treat impurities in water.

The purpose, features, and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a washing machine exemplified as a laundry treatment device according to a first embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective perspective view of the washing machine shown in Fig. 1 .

Fig. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a steam supply mechanism accommodated in a cabinet of the washing machine shown in Fig. 1 .

Fig. 4A is a schematic perspective view of a steam generating unit of the steam supply mechanism shown in Fig. 3 .

Fig. 4B is a schematic perspective view of a steam generating unit of the steam supply mechanism shown in Fig. 3 .

Fig. 5 is a schematic perspective view of a mounting part for connecting the cover of the steam generating part shown in Figs. 4A and 4B to the cabinet.

Fig. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the steam generator fixed to the top wall of the cabinet by using the mounting part shown in Fig. 5 .

Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view of a steam generating unit connected to a first reinforcement frame and a second reinforcement frame.

Fig. 8A is a schematic perspective view of a steam generator of the steam generating unit shown in Figs. 4A and 4B.

Fig. 8B is a schematic perspective view of a steam generator of the steam generating unit shown in Figs. 4A and 4B.

Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view of the main piece of the steam generator shown in Figs. 8A and 8B.

Fig. 10 is a schematic expanded perspective view of the steam generator shown in Figs. 8A and 8B.

Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view of a cover sheet of the steam generator shown in Fig. 10 .

Fig. 12 is a schematic plan view of the main sheet shown in Fig. 9 .

Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram of a water supply mechanism of the steam supply mechanism shown in Fig. 3 .

Fig. 14 is a schematic rear view of the front portion of the storage tank of the washing machine shown in Fig. 1 .

15 is a diagram schematically showing the relationship between the intermittent operation of the pump of the water supply mechanism shown in FIG. 13 and the temperature in the chamber space.

Fig. 16 is a schematic block diagram showing various elements of the washing machine used in the washing process.

Fig. 17 is a schematic flow chart showing control for adjusting the temperature of washing water.

Fig. 18 is a diagram schematically showing changes in temperature of water supplied to the water tank of the washing machine shown in Fig. 1 .

Fig. 19A is a schematic timing chart showing the steam supply timing in the dehydration step.

Fig. 19B is a schematic timing chart showing the steam supply timing in the dehydration step.

Fig. 19C is a schematic timing chart showing the steam supply timing in the dehydration step.

Fig. 20 is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine shown in Fig. 1 .

Fig. 21 is a schematic sectional view of the front wall of the washing machine shown in Fig. 20 .

Fig. 22A is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the operation of the locking mechanism of the washing machine shown in Fig. 20 .

Fig. 22B is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the operation of the locking mechanism of the washing machine shown in Fig. 20 .

Fig. 22C is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the operation of the locking mechanism of the washing machine shown in Fig. 20 .

Fig. 23 is a block diagram schematically showing control of the door based on the temperature of the steam generator shown in Fig. 8B.

Fig. 24 is a schematic flowchart of the control of the door body.

Fig. 25 is a schematic developed perspective view of a steam generator used in the washing machine exemplified as the laundry treatment device according to the second embodiment.

Fig. 26 is a schematic perspective view of the steam generator shown in Fig. 25 .

detailed description

Hereinafter, a washing machine exemplified as a laundry treatment apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, terms indicating directions such as "up", "down", "left", and "right" used in the following description are only for clarity of explanation, and do not limit the principle of the washing machine in any way. In addition, the principle of the washing machine can also be applied to an apparatus for drying, dehydrating, or other processing of laundry.

<First Embodiment>

<washing machine>

Fig. 1 is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view of a washing machine 100 exemplified as a laundry treatment device according to a first embodiment. The washing machine 100 will be described using FIG. 1 .

Washing machine 100 includes a cabinet 110 and a storage tank 200 for storing laundry in cabinet 110 . The storage tank 200 includes: a rotating drum 210 having a substantially cylindrical peripheral wall 211 surrounding the rotating shaft RX; and a water tank 220 for accommodating the rotating drum 210 . The storage tank 200 has a substantially cylindrical shape surrounding the rotation axis RX. In a washing step described later, the storage tank 200 stores laundry and washing water for washing the laundry. In a dehydration step described later, washing water is discharged from the storage tank 200 . After that, the rotary drum 210 rotates at a high speed.

Washing machine 100 includes warm water heater 160 for heating washing water. Warm water heater 160 is arranged at a lower portion of water tank 220 . Control using the warm water heater 160 will be described later.

The cabinet 110 includes a front wall 111 formed with an inlet 119 for putting clothes into the storage tub 200 , and a rear wall 112 on the opposite side of the front wall 111 . The cabinet 110 includes: a cabinet top wall 113 extending approximately horizontally between the front wall 111 and the rear wall 112 ; and a cabinet bottom wall 114 opposite to the cabinet top wall 113 . The rotary drum 210 and the water tank 220 are respectively formed with openings 213 and 227 communicating with the inlet 119 formed in the front wall 111 .

The washing machine 100 further includes a door body 120 attached to the front wall 111 . The door body 120 rotates between a closed position for blocking the inlet 119 formed in the front wall 111 and an open position for opening the inlet 119 . The user can put clothes into the storage tank 200 through the inlet 119 of the front wall 111 by turning the door body 120 to the open position. After that, the user can move the door body 120 to the closed position to make the washing machine 100 wash the clothes. In addition, the door body 120 shown in FIG. 1 is in a closed position. The door body 120 blocks the receiving slot 200 in the closed position.

The rotary drum 210 rotates around a rotation axis RX extending between the front wall 111 and the rear wall 112 . The laundry put into storage tank 200 moves in rotary drum 210 as rotary drum 210 rotates, and is subjected to various processes such as washing, rinsing, and/or dehydration.

The rotary drum 210 includes a bottom wall 212 facing the door body 120 in the closed position. Water tub 220 includes: bottom 221 surrounding bottom wall 212 and part of peripheral wall 211 of rotary drum 210 ;

The receiving tank 200 includes a rotating shaft 230 installed on the bottom wall 212 of the rotating drum 210 . The rotation shaft 230 extends toward the rear wall 112 along the rotation axis RX. The rotation shaft 230 runs through the bottom 221 of the water tank 220 and appears between the water tank 220 and the rear wall 112 .

Washing machine 100 further includes: motor 231 attached below water tub 220 ; pulley 232 attached to rotating shaft 230 exposed outside water tub 220 ; and belt 233 for transmitting power of motor 231 to pulley 232 . When the motor 231 operates, the power of the motor 231 is transmitted to the belt 233 , the pulley 232 and the rotation shaft 230 . As a result, rotary drum 210 rotates in water tank 220 .

The washing machine 100 further includes a gasket structure 130 provided between the front portion 222 of the water tank 220 and the door 120 . The door 120 rotated to the closed position compresses the cushion structure 130 . As a result, gasket structure 130 forms a watertight seal between door body 120 and front portion 222 .

Washing machine 100 further includes a water supply port 140 connected to a water tap (not shown), and a distribution unit 141 for distributing water introduced through water supply port 140 . The water supply port 140 appears on the top wall 113 of the housing horizontally placed on the receiving tank 200 . The distributing portion 141 is disposed between the top wall 113 of the casing and the receiving slot 200 .

Washing machine 100 further includes a detergent storage unit (not shown) for storing detergent, and a steam supply mechanism 300 (described later) for injecting steam into storage tank 200 . Distribution unit 141 includes a plurality of water supply valves for selectively supplying water to storage tank 200 , detergent storage unit, and steam supply mechanism 300 . In addition, in FIG. 1, the water supply path to the storage tank 200 and a detergent storage part is not shown. A technique used in a known washing machine is appropriately applied to the water supply to the storage tank 200 and the detergent storage unit.

The washing machine 100 also includes: a main pipe 180 connected to the water tank 220; a filter part 181 for filtering water discharged from the water tank 220 through the main pipe 180; a circulation pump 182 connected to a pipe extending from the filter part 181; Circulation pump 182 and circulation pipe 183 of water tank 220 ; drain pump 184 connected to a pipe extending from filter unit 181 ; If the circulation pump 182 operates, the water discharged from the water tank 220 to the main line 180 returns to the water tank 220 again. If the drain pump 184 operates, the water discharged from the water tank 220 to the main pipe 180 flows out of the cabinet 110 .

<Steam Supply Mechanism>

FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the washing machine 100 . FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the steam supply mechanism 300 housed in the cabinet 110 . In FIGS. 2 and 3 , the casing 110 is indicated by a dotted line. In FIG. 3 , the storage tank 200 is not shown. Arrows in FIG. 3 schematically indicate water supply paths. The steam supply mechanism 300 will be described using FIGS. 1 to 3 .

As shown in FIG. 3 , the distributing unit 141 includes: a first water supply valve 310 used in the steam supply mechanism 300; a second water supply valve 142 for opening and closing the water supply path to the detergent container containing detergent; The third water supply valve 143 of the water supply path of 220. The water supplied to the detergent storage portion by the opening operation of the second water supply valve 142 is supplied to the storage tank 200 as wash water (water in which detergent is dissolved). The water directly supplied to the water tank 220 by opening the third water supply valve 143 can also be used for adjusting the concentration of detergent in the washing water in the storage tank 200 , adjusting the water level in the storage tank 200 , or adjusting the turbidity of the washing water.

The steam supply mechanism 300 has a water storage tank 320 disposed below the storage tank 200 in addition to the above-mentioned first water supply valve 310 . The first water supply valve 310 is used to open and close the water supply path to the water storage tank 320 . If the first water supply valve 310 is opened, water is supplied from the water supply port 140 to the water storage tank 320 . If the first water supply valve 310 is closed, the water supply to the water storage tank 320 is stopped.

The steam supply mechanism 300 further includes a pump 330 attached to the water storage tank 320 and a steam generator 400 that receives water jetted from the pump 330 . The pump 330 performs an intermittent or continuous water supply operation to the steam generator 400 . During the intermittent water supply operation, the pump 330 supplies an appropriate amount of water adjusted to generate steam instantaneously to the steam generator 400 . If the pump 330 continuously supplies water to the steam generating unit 400 , impurities (scale) contained in the water used to generate steam are washed from the steam generating unit 400 .

The steam generator 400 is heated to a high temperature in order to generate steam injected into the storage tank 200 . The casing 110 accommodates the storage tank 200 including the rotating drum 210 and the steam generator 400 heated to a high temperature. Therefore, the storage tank 200 and the steam generator 400 are appropriately spaced apart from the user. Thus, the user can safely operate the washing machine 100 .

As shown in FIG. 2 , the steam supply mechanism 300 further includes a steam conduit 340 extending downward from the steam generating part 400 . As shown in FIG. 1 , the front portion 222 of the water tank 220 includes a peripheral wall portion 223 surrounding the peripheral wall 211 of the rotary drum 210 and an annular portion 224 forming a watertight sealing structure in cooperation with the gasket structure 130 . The steam conduction pipe 340 is connected to the peripheral wall portion 223 . The steam generated by the steam generator 400 is supplied to the storage tank 200 through the steam conduit 340 . In addition, in order to avoid transmission of vibrations when the housing tank 200 is rotated to the steam generation unit 400, the steam conduit 340 is preferably in the shape of a bellows.

4A and 4B are schematic perspective views of the steam generator 400 . The steam generator 400 will be described using FIGS. 2 to 4B .

The steam generator 400 includes a substantially rectangular box-shaped casing 410 and a steam generator 420 surrounded by the casing 410 . The casing 410 includes a container portion 411 for accommodating the steam generator 420 and a cover portion 412 covering the container portion 411 .

The steam generator 420 is connected to the pump 330 using a connection pipe 421 and a pipe (not shown). In addition, the steam generator 420 is connected to the steam conduit 340 through the exhaust pipe 422 . The container portion 411 includes a bottom wall portion 414 formed with an opening portion 413 . The connection pipe 421 and the exhaust pipe 422 protrude downward through the opening 413 .

Since the pump 330 forcibly supplies water from the water storage tank 320 to the steam generator 420 in the steam generating unit 400 , the steam generator 420 is arranged above the water storage tank 320 . If water is supplied from the water storage tank 320 to the steam generator 420 without the pump 330 , the water in the water storage tank 320 needs to be transported to the steam generator 420 by gravity. In this case, the steam generator 420 needs to be arranged below the water storage tank 320 .

In the present embodiment, water supply from the water storage tank 320 to the steam generator 420 is performed using the pump 330 . Since water is forcibly supplied from the water storage tank 320 to the steam generator 420 by the pressure of the pump 330 , it is difficult to restrict the vertical relationship between the steam generator 420 and the water storage tank 320 . Since the degree of freedom in the arrangement and design of the water storage tank 320 and the steam generator 420 is increased, the space in the casing 110 is effectively utilized.

As shown in FIG. 2 , although the steam generator 420 is disposed above the water storage tank 320 , the pump 330 can appropriately supply water from the water storage tank 320 to the steam generator 420 .

If water inadvertently flows into the steam generator due to an unexpected malfunction or other undesirable condition, steam will be generated unnecessarily. In this embodiment, since the pump 330 is used, the water storage tank 320 is arranged below the steam generator 420 . Even in the case where the pump 330 stops due to a malfunction and the supply of water to the steam generator 420 cannot be controlled, the water stagnant in the hose connecting the water storage tank 320/pump 330 with the steam generator 420 will not be unnecessarily ground into the steam generator 420. As described above, if there is no pump 330 , the steam generator 420 needs to be disposed below the water storage tank 320 . For example, in the case where a control component such as an on-off valve provided for controlling the supply of water from the water storage tank 320 to the steam generator 420 fails, the supply of water to the steam generator 420 cannot be controlled, and due to the effect of gravity However, water is unnecessarily supplied from the water storage tank 320 to the steam generator 420 . In this embodiment, since the pump 330 is used, it is difficult to unnecessarily supply water from the water storage tank 320 to the steam generator 420 .

As shown in FIG. 2 , the cabinet 110 includes a right wall 115 standing upright between the front wall 111 and the rear wall 112 , and a left wall 116 opposite to the right wall 115 . The rotation axis RX extends along the right wall 115 and the left wall 116 (ie, the rotation axis RX extends approximately parallel to the right wall 115 and the left wall 116 ).

In FIG. 2 , the vertical plane VP passing through the rotation axis RX is indicated by a chain line. The water storage tank 320 is disposed in the lower left space of the cabinet 110 (the space between the vertical plane VP and the left wall 116 ). The steam generator 420 is disposed in the upper right space of the casing 110 (the space between the vertical plane VP and the right wall 115 ). In this way, the steam generator 420 and the water storage tank 320 are arranged at approximately symmetrical positions with respect to the central axis (rotation axis RX) of the storage tank 200 . In addition, the water storage tank 320 is arranged near the rear wall 112 , while the steam generator 420 is arranged closer to the front wall 111 than to the rear wall 112 .

In the case of a general washing machine, a detergent container for storing detergent is provided on one of the left side and the right side of the upper front of the cabinet. The space outside the substantially cylindrical storage tank 200 excluding the position occupied by the detergent storage part is effectively used for arranging the water storage tank 320 and the steam generator 420 respectively. For example, if the detergent container is arranged on the upper front left side of the cabinet 110 , the water storage tank 320 is arranged behind the lower left side of the cabinet 110 as shown in FIG. 2 . At this time, if the steam generator 420 is arranged in front of the upper right side of the casing 110, the internal space between the inner surface of the substantially rectangular box-shaped casing 110 and the outer surface of the substantially cylindrical storage tank 200 is effectively used for disposing the steam generator 420. Water storage tank 320 and steam generator 420. As a result, the water storage tank 320 and the steam generator 420 can also be designed to be as large as possible within the allowable space.

If the detergent storage part is in the above-mentioned position, the water storage tank 320 can also be arranged at a position approximately symmetrical to the central axis (rotation axis RX) of the storage tank 200 and the detergent storage part, and the steam generator 420 can be arranged at a position opposite to the detergent storage part. The horizontal plane HP including the rotation axis RX of the storage tank 200 is substantially symmetrical to the water storage tank 320 . Similar to the above-mentioned layout design, the space inside the casing 110 can be effectively utilized.

If the detergent storage part is in the above-mentioned position, the water storage tank 320 may be arranged below the detergent storage part. In this case, the steam generator 420 may be arranged above the water storage tank 320 . At this time, the steam generator 420 may be arranged at a position approximately symmetrical to the water storage tank 320 with respect to a vertical plane including the rotation axis RX of the storage tank 200 . As a result, the space inside the cabinet 110 can be effectively used as in the above-mentioned layout design.

When the rotation axis RX of the storage tank 200 is inclined in the front-rear direction of the cabinet 110 (for example, when the rotation axis RX of the rotary drum 210 is inclined upward from the rear wall 112 to the front wall 111), the water storage tank 320 and the steam The generator 420 may be arranged at a substantially symmetrical position with respect to the rotation axis RX of the storage tank 200 or a horizontal plane HP including the rotation axis RX. If the water storage tank 320 and the steam generator 420 are arranged at substantially symmetrical positions with respect to a vertical plane passing through the approximate center of the front-rear direction of the cabinet 110, the internal space between the inner surface of the cabinet 110 and the outside of the storage tank 200 can be effectively used. The water storage tank 320 and the steam generator 420 are configured.

<Mounting structure to the cabinet>

FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of the attachment portion 150 attached to the cover portion 412 . The mounting part 150 will be described using FIG. 3 and FIG. 5 .

The cover 412 includes a substantially rectangular upper wall 415 , a cover peripheral wall 416 protruding downward from the edge of the upper wall 415 , and a protruding piece 417 protruding forward from the cover peripheral wall 416 . Washing machine 100 includes attachment portion 150 attached to cover portion 412 . The installation portion 150 includes a first installation piece 151 fixed on the upper wall 415 and a second installation piece 152 fixed on the protruding piece 417 . The first mounting piece 151 and the second mounting piece 152 protrude upward from the cover portion 412 .

The first mounting piece 151 includes a first connecting plate 153 connected to the upper wall 415, a first upright plate 154 protruding upward from the first connecting plate 153, and a pair of first cards protruding rightward from the first upright plate 154. Composite sheet 155. The second mounting piece 152 includes a second connecting plate 156 connected to the protruding piece 417, a second upright plate 157 protruding upward from the second connecting plate 156, and a second engaging piece 158 protruding forward from the second upright plate 157. .

FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the steam generating unit 400 fixed to the cabinet top wall 113 by using the mounting unit 150 . Attachment of the steam generator 400 to the cabinet top wall 113 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 6 .

As shown in FIG. 3 , the cabinet 110 further includes a first reinforcement frame 117 disposed along the upper edge of the right wall 115 and a second reinforcement frame 118 disposed along the upper edge of the front wall 111 .

As shown in FIG. 6 , a plurality of openings 171 are formed in the first reinforcement frame 117 . The first engaging piece 155 of the first mounting piece 151 is inserted into the opening 171 . As a result, the first mounting piece 151 engages with the first reinforcement frame 117 .

The first mounting piece 151 includes a plurality of first fins 159 formed at corners between the first connection plate 153 and the first upstanding plate 154 . Most of the heat of the steam generating unit 400 is dissipated through the first fins 159 , and therefore less heat is transferred to the first reinforcement frame 117 and the cabinet top wall 113 .

An opening is also formed in the second reinforcement frame 118 . As shown in FIG. 6 , the second engaging piece 158 of the second mounting piece 152 is inserted into the opening of the second reinforcement frame 118 . As a result, the second attachment piece 152 is engaged with the second reinforcement frame 118 . As a result, the steam generator 400 is fixed to the cabinet top wall 113 through the first mounting piece 151 and the second mounting piece 152 . The steam generating part 400 is spaced apart from the cabinet top wall 113 by the first upright plate 154 and the second upright plate 157 erected upward. As a result, an air layer exists between the cover portion 412 and the cabinet top wall 113 . Therefore, the heat transfer from the steam generation part 400 to the cabinet top wall 113 is relieved.

The protruding piece 417 to which the second connecting plate 156 of the second mounting piece 152 is connected includes a plurality of second fins 418 protruding downward. Since most of the heat of the steam generating unit 400 is dissipated through the second fins 418, the amount of heat transferred to the second connection plate 156 is reduced. The second upstanding plate 157 is narrower than the second connection plate 156 . Therefore, the amount of heat conducted from the second connection plate 156 to the second upright plate 157 is reduced. As a result, less heat is transferred to the second reinforcement frame 118 and the cabinet top wall 113 via the second upright plate 157 .

FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the steam generator 400 connected to the first reinforcement frame 117 and the second reinforcement frame 118 . The installation of the steam generator 400 will be described using FIG. 7 .

In FIG. 7 , the outline of the casing 110 is represented by a dashed-dotted line. The first reinforcing frame 117 includes an outer edge 172 close to the right wall 115 extending downward from the top wall 113 of the casing, and an inner edge 173 farther from the right wall 115 than the outer edge 172 . The first reinforcing frame 117 also includes a rib 174 extending downward from the inner edge 173 . The opening 171 described above is formed in the rib 174 . The first engaging piece 155 of the first mounting piece 151 is inserted into the opening 171 and protrudes toward the right wall 115 . The first mounting piece 151 is connected along the right edge of the cover part 412 . Thus, the steam generating part 400 is appropriately spaced apart from the right wall 115 of the cabinet 110 by the first mounting piece 151 . As a result, the heat transfer from the steam generating part 400 to the right wall 115 is eased.

The front wall 111 adjacent to the right wall 115 extends downward from the cabinet top wall 113 . The second mounting piece 152 suspended from the second reinforcing frame 118 is bent in a direction opposite to the front wall 111 to be connected to the steam generating part 400 . Thus, the steam generating part 400 is appropriately spaced apart from the front wall 111 of the cabinet 110 by the second mounting piece 152 . In this way, the steam generating part 400 is separated from the cabinet 110 and held by the mounting part 150 .

<Steam Generator>

8A and 8B are schematic perspective views of the steam generator 420 . The steam generator 420 will be described using FIGS. 8A and 8B .

The steam generator 420 includes a substantially rectangular main piece 423 , a cover piece 424 provided on the main piece 423 , and a linear heater 425 provided on the main piece 423 . In this embodiment, the main sheet 423 and the cover sheet 424 are formed of aluminum. Thus, the main sheet 423 and the cover sheet 424 are properly heated by the heater 425 .

The steam generator 420 further includes a thermistor 426 that detects the temperature of the steam generator 420 . In addition to the above-mentioned connecting pipe 421 , exhaust pipe 422 and heater 425 , a thermistor 426 is also mounted on the main piece 423 . The heater 425 is controlled using the thermistor 426 and based on temperature information obtained from the thermistor 426 . Therefore, the temperatures of the main sheet 423 and the cover sheet 424 are maintained substantially constant. In addition, the same effect can be obtained even if a thermostat that controls ON/OFF of the heater 425 at a predetermined temperature is used instead of the thermistor 426 . In this embodiment, the thermistor 426 is exemplified as a detection unit.

FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of the main piece 423 . The main sheet 423 will be described using FIG. 8B and FIG. 9 .

The main piece 423 includes a main piece lower surface 427 for installing the connecting pipe 421 , exhaust pipe 422 and thermistor 426 , a peripheral surface 428 on which the heater 425 is disposed, and an upper surface 429 on the opposite side of the main piece lower surface 427 . The main piece 423 also includes an outer chamber wall 431 standing upright from the upper surface 429 toward the cover piece 424 to define a substantially triangular-shaped chamber space 430 , and a substantially J-shaped inner chamber defining a steam flow path in the chamber space 430 . Chamber wall 432 .

FIG. 10 is a schematic expanded perspective view of the steam generator 420 . FIG. 11 is a schematic perspective view of the cover sheet 424 . The steam generator 420 will be described using FIG. 3 , FIG. 8B to FIG. 11 .

The steam generator 420 includes a backing ring 433 attached to the main piece 423 so as to surround the outer chamber wall 431 . The backing ring 433 is formed of heat-resistant rubber.

The cover sheet 424 has a lower surface 434 facing the main sheet 423 and an outer seal wall 435 having substantially the same shape as the outer chamber wall 431 . The cover sheet 424 is pressed against the main sheet 423 . As a result, the outer seal wall 435 compresses the gasket ring 433 to maintain the chamber space 430 in an airtight state.

An inflow port 437 for allowing water supplied through the connecting pipe 421 to flow into the chamber space 430 is formed in the main piece 423 . An inflow port 437 formed substantially in the center of the chamber space 430 is surrounded by the inner chamber wall 432 . If the pump 330 supplies a prescribed amount of water to the steam generator 420 , the water is ejected upward through the connection pipe 421 and the inflow port 437 . As a result, the water collides with the inner chamber wall 432 , the upper surface 429 of the main sheet 423 surrounded by the inner chamber wall 432 , and/or the lower surface 434 of the cover sheet 424 located above the inflow port 437 . The steam generator 420 is heated by a heater 425 (for example, about 200° C.), and has high heat energy. The pump 330 performing an intermittent water supply operation supplies an appropriate amount of water (for example, about 2 cc/time) to the thermal energy possessed by the steam generator 420 . As a result, the water ejected upward from the inflow port 437 evaporates instantaneously.

Impurities contained in water supplied to the steam generator 420 may adhere to or deposit on the wall surface forming the chamber space 430 during vaporization. As a result of instantaneous evaporation of water, the internal pressure of the chamber space 430 rises sharply, and therefore, the attached or precipitated impurities are easily discharged from the chamber space 430 by the pressure at the time of vaporization.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the steam generator 420 is disposed above the storage tank 200 . As mentioned above, the impurities contained in the water supplied to the steam generator 420 sometimes adhere to or deposit on the outer chamber wall 431, the inner chamber wall 432, the upper surface 429 and the lower surface of the cover sheet 424 of the main sheet 423 during gasification. 434 and the like form the walls of the chamber space 430 . If impurities accumulate, the heat transfer efficiency between the wall surface and the supplied water decreases. As a result, water is difficult to evaporate. However, if the steam generator 420 is arranged above the storage tank 200 , the adhered or precipitated impurities are discharged or fall below the steam generator 420 due to the pressure and gravity during gasification. Therefore, impurities are easily discharged from the chamber space 430 to the storage tank 200 . As a result, the accumulation of impurities attached or deposited in the chamber of the steam generator 420 is properly removed. Therefore, it is difficult to reduce the gasification capacity due to the accumulation of impurities.

FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view of the main piece 423 . The main sheet 423 will be described using FIG. 8B and FIG. 12 .

The heater 425 extends along a substantially U-shaped path inside the main sheet 423 . As a result, the heater 425 surrounds the inlet 437 to which the connecting pipe 421 is attached. As a result, the inner chamber wall 432 and the region surrounded by the inner chamber wall 432 are at the highest temperature in the chamber space 430 . Therefore, the water ejected through the inflow port 437 evaporates instantaneously.

In the chamber space 430 defined by the outer chamber wall 431 , the substantially J-shaped inner chamber wall 432 extends, so that the chamber space 430 draws a spiral flow path. An exhaust port 438 formed at the end of the flow path is formed in the main piece 423 . The steam generated in the space surrounded by the inner chamber wall 432 moves toward the exhaust port 438 as the inner pressure of the chamber space 430 increases. The exhaust pipe 422 is attached to the exhaust port 438 . The steam reaching the exhaust port 438 is exhausted downward through the exhaust pipe 422 .

The heater 425 extends in a U-shape along the outer path of the swirl-shaped flow path. Therefore, the steam generated in the space surrounded by the inner chamber wall 432 goes toward the exhaust pipe 422 while being heated. Thereby, high-temperature steam is discharged.

The steam generator 420 injects water onto the heated wall surface to evaporate it instantaneously. Therefore, compared with the conventional technique of generating steam by using a heater immersed in water, the power consumption required to generate the same amount of steam is less.

<water supply agency>

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the water supply mechanism 500 . The water supply mechanism 500 will be described using FIG. 13 .

The water supply mechanism 500 for injecting water into the chamber space 430 of the steam generator 420 includes the first water supply valve 310 , the water storage tank 320 , the pump 330 and the connecting pipe 421 . The water supply mechanism 500 further includes a water level sensor 321 for measuring the water level of the water stored in the water storage tank 320 . The first water supply valve 310 may also supply water to the water storage tank 320 or stop water supply to the water storage tank 320 according to the water level detected by the water level sensor 321 .

The first water supply valve 310 can also be controlled according to the working time and/or operation mode (intermittent water supply operation and/or continuous water supply operation) of the pump 330 . For example, the amount of water supplied from the first water supply valve 310 is adjusted so that the water storage tank 320 becomes empty when the operation of the pump 330 ends. As a result, freezing of the water in the water storage tank 320 hardly occurs.

The pump 330 supplies water stored in the water storage tank 320 to the chamber space 430 through the connection pipe 421 . The intermittent water supply operation of the pump 330 is adjusted so that the water injected into the chamber space 430 evaporates instantaneously.

As a result of evaporation of the water in the chamber space 430 , impurities contained in the water may also accumulate in the chamber space 430 . The continuous water supply action of the pump 330 is adjusted to cause water to flow into the chamber space 430 at a flow rate sufficient to flush away accumulated impurities.

The exhaust pipe 422 is connected to the steam conduit 340 . The steam generated in the chamber space 430 by the intermittent water supply operation of the pump 330 and the water flowing into the chamber space 430 by the continuous water supply operation of the pump 330 flow into the storage tank 200 through the exhaust pipe 422 and the steam conduit 340 .

<Supply of steam and water to the containment tank>

FIG. 14 is a schematic rear view of the front portion 222 of the storage tank 200 . The supply of steam and water to the storage tank 200 will be described using FIG. 1 , FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 .

As shown in FIG. 1 , the annular portion 224 of the front portion 222 includes an inner surface 225 facing the rotating drum 210 and an outer surface 226 facing the front wall 111 of the casing 110 . FIG. 14 mainly shows the inner surface 225 .

The steam supply mechanism 300 includes a branch pipe 351 and a nozzle 352 attached to the inner surface 225 . The steam supply mechanism 300 further includes a steam pipe 353 connecting the branch pipe 351 and the nozzle 352 . The steam conduit 340 is connected to the branch pipe 351 via the peripheral wall portion 223 .

The steam generated in the chamber space 430 of the steam generator 420 flows into the steam conduit 340 through the exhaust pipe 422 as the pressure in the chamber space 430 increases. After that, the steam reaches the branch pipe 351 from the steam conducting pipe 340 . The nozzle 352 is provided above the branch pipe 351 . The steam reaching the branch pipe 351 is high temperature, so it is guided to the steam pipe 353 and reaches the nozzle 352 . Finally, steam is sprayed downward from the nozzle 352 . As a result, the steam is blown directly to the clothes stored in the storage tank 200 through the opening 213 of the rotary drum 210 . In this embodiment, the exhaust pipe 422 , the steam conducting pipe 340 , the branch pipe 351 and the steam pipe 353 guide the steam generated in the chamber space 430 to the nozzle 352 . Therefore, the exhaust pipe 422 , the steam conduction pipe 340 , the branch pipe 351 , and the steam pipe 353 are exemplified as guide pipes that define the steam flow path between the steam generator 420 and the nozzle 352 .

As described above, the pump 330 performing the intermittent water supply operation injects an appropriate amount of water into the high-temperature chamber space 430 , so the water evaporates instantaneously. As a result, the internal pressure of the chamber space 430 increases rapidly. Therefore, the steam is sprayed at high pressure from the nozzle 352, and the internal space of the storage tank 200 is horizontally cut up and down. In the vicinity of the lower end of the rotary drum 210, laundry tends to concentrate due to gravity. The steam sprayed from the nozzle 352 installed on the upper portion of the storage tank 200 reaches the vicinity of the lower end of the rotary drum 210, and thus the steam is efficiently supplied to the laundry.

The branch pipe 351 includes a main pipe 354 connected to the steam conduit 340 , an upper sub-pipe 355 bent upward from the main pipe 354 , and a lower sub-pipe 356 bent downward from the main pipe 354 . The upper sub-pipe 355 is located above the branch point of the branch pipe 351 . Steam or water flows into the main pipe 354 through the steam conduit 340 . The upper sub-pipe 355 is connected to the steam pipe 353 and regulates the upward path of the steam toward the nozzle 352 . In this embodiment, the upper sub-pipe 355 and the steam pipe 353 are exemplified as the first pipe.

The lower sub-pipe 356 is different from the upper sub-pipe 355 and defines a downward path. During the continuous water supply operation of the pump 330 , the water flowing into the branch pipe 351 through the steam conducting pipe 340 flows down through the lower sub pipe 356 due to gravity. In this embodiment, the lower tube 356 is exemplified as the second tube.

FIG. 14 shows the included angle θ1 between the main tube 354 and the upper sub-tube 355 . In addition, FIG. 14 also shows the included angle θ2 between the main pipe 354 and the lower sub-pipe 356 . The included angle θ1 is an obtuse angle, and on the other hand, the included angle θ2 is an acute angle. Since the included angle θ2 is an acute angle, the piping loss from the main pipe 354 to the sub-pipe 356 is relatively large. Therefore, the steam flowing into the main pipe 354 hardly flows to the lower sub-pipe 356 and mainly flows to the upper sub-pipe 355 . On the other hand, the upper sub-pipe 355 defines an upward flow path, so the water flowing into the main pipe 354 hardly flows into the upper sub-pipe 355 due to gravity, and mainly flows into the lower sub-pipe 356 . Therefore, the flow path of steam and the flow path of water are properly separated.

The water flowing into the lower sub-pipe 356 flows down due to gravity. As a result, it is guided between rotary drum 210 and water tank 220 . The scale contained in the water flowing into the lower sub-pipe 356 is then discharged out of the casing 110 through the drain pipe 185 . In this embodiment, the drain line 185 is exemplified as a drain path.

<intermittent pump operation>

FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically showing the relationship between the intermittent operation of the pump 330 and the temperature in the chamber space 430 . The intermittent operation of the pump 330 will be described using FIGS. 10 , 13 and 15 .

As shown in FIG. 15 , the period during which the pump 330 operates (operation period) is set to be shorter than the period during which the pump 330 stops (stop period). As a result, an appropriate amount of water is ejected into the chamber space 430 .

During operation, a specified amount of water is supplied to the chamber space 430 . As a result, water evaporates into steam. Due to the heat of vaporization caused by the phase change from water to steam, the temperature of the chamber space 430 temporarily decreases. As described above, since the stop period is set relatively long, the heater 425 can sufficiently raise the temperature of the chamber space 430 during the stop period. Therefore, while the pump 330 is intermittently operating, high-pressure steam is continuously supplied to the storage tank 200 . Especially during the stop period, the chamber space 430 is sufficiently warmed up, and during operation, an appropriate amount of water (for example, about 2 cc/time) evaporated instantaneously is supplied to the heat energy provided by the steam generator 420 including the chamber space 430, so as to provide a good The storage tank 200 is continuously supplied with high-pressure steam.

<Utilization of steam in the washing process>

FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram showing various elements of washing machine 100 used in the washing process. The operation of washing machine 100 in the washing step will be described with reference to Fig. 1 , Fig. 13 and Fig. 16 .

Washing machine 100 includes control unit 122 , water temperature detection unit 161 , and water level detection unit 162 in addition to distribution unit 141 , hot water heater 160 , and heater 425 . The water temperature detection unit 161 detects the temperature of the washing water stored in the storage tank 200 . As the water temperature detection part 161, the temperature sensor (not shown) attached to the water tank 220 can be illustrated. Water level detector 162 detects the water level of the washing water in storage tank 200 . The water level detection unit 162 can also be a water level sensor (not shown) installed in the water tank 220, a flow meter installed in the path from the second water supply valve 142 and/or the third water supply valve 143 to the water tank 220, or a flow meter from the second water supply valve 142 and/or the third water supply valve 143 to the water tank 220. A timer that starts counting when the valve 142 and/or the third water supply valve 143 is opened.

The control unit 122 controls the distribution unit 141 to open the second water supply valve 142 and the third water supply valve 143 to supply washing water to the storage tank 200 . Meanwhile, the control unit 122 may heat the steam generator 420 under feedback control between the thermistor 426 and the heater 425 .

Water level detection unit 162 outputs a detection signal including information on the water level of the washing water in storage tank 200 to control unit 122 . Control unit 122 determines whether or not warm water heater 160 is immersed in washing water based on a detection signal from water level detection unit 162 . When warm water heater 160 is immersed in washing water, control unit 122 operates warm water heater 160 .

Water temperature detection unit 161 outputs a detection signal including information on the temperature of the washing water in storage tub 200 to control unit 122 . Control unit 122 determines whether the washing water has reached a predetermined temperature based on the detection signal from water temperature detection unit 161 . If the wash water reaches a specified temperature, the warm water heater 160 is stopped. Thereafter, the control unit 122 operates the pump 330 (the steam supply mechanism 300 : the water supply mechanism 500 ). While the pump 330 is operating, the control unit 122 supplies water to the water storage tank 320 as necessary under feedback control between the water level sensor 321 and the first water supply valve 310 .

Fig. 17 is a schematic flow chart showing control for adjusting the temperature of washing water. Control for adjusting the temperature of washing water will be described using FIG. 1 and FIG. 15 to FIG. 17 .

(step S110)

In step S110 , the control unit 122 opens the second water supply valve 142 and/or the third water supply valve 143 to supply water to the storage tank 200 . After that, step S120 is executed.

(step S120)

Control unit 122 stores in advance information on a predetermined threshold "LTH" for the water level of the washing water in storage tub 200 . In step S120, control unit 122 uses the detection signal output from water level detection unit 162 to compare the water level of the washing water in storage tub 200 with threshold value "LTH". If the water level of the wash water exceeds the threshold "LTH", step S130 is performed. In other cases, execute step S110. In addition, the threshold "LTH" is appropriately defined such that if the water level of the wash water exceeds the threshold "LTH", the warm water heater 160 is immersed in the wash water.

(step S130)

In step S130, the control part 122 operates the warm water heater 160. As a result, the wash water is rapidly heated. If the heating of the wash water starts, step S140 is performed.

(step S140)

Control unit 122 stores in advance information on a predetermined threshold "TTH" for the temperature of the washing water in storage tub 200 . In step S140, control unit 122 uses the detection signal output from water temperature detection unit 161 to compare the water temperature of the washing water in storage tub 200 with a threshold “TTH”. If the water temperature of the washing water exceeds the threshold "TTH", step S150 is performed. In other cases, execute step S130.

(step S150)

In step S150, control unit 122 stops warm water heater 160. After that, step S160 is executed.

(step S160)

In step S160, the control unit 122 operates the pump 330. The operation of the pump 330 in step S160 is intermittent as described with reference to FIG. 15 . The pump 330 may continue to operate intermittently until the washing process is completed.

FIG. 18 is a diagram schematically showing changes in temperature of water supplied to water tank 220 in the washing process. The effect of the steam used in the washing process will be described using FIG. 1 , FIG. 10 , FIG. 13 and FIG. 18 .

As shown in FIG. 18, water is supplied to the water tank 220 when the washing process starts. During this time, the temperature of the water contained in the laundry in the water tub 220 is substantially constant. Thereafter, the water in the water tank 220 is heated using the warm water heater 160 . The warm water heater 160 generates a large amount of heat, so the temperature of the water contained in the laundry in the water tank 220 rises rapidly. After that, when the specified temperature is reached, the heating of the water in the water tank 220 is stopped.

In FIG. 18 , the dotted line after the heating is stopped represents the change in the temperature of the water contained in the laundry when the warm water heater 160 stops heating and no steam is supplied. A solid line after the heating is stopped indicates a change in temperature of water contained in the laundry when the warm water heater 160 stops heating and supplies steam to the storage tank 200 .

As described above, the steam supplied to the storage tank 200 is high temperature and is directly supplied to the clothes, so the temperature drop of the water contained in the clothes in the water tank 220 is moderated. The heater 425 used for the steam generator 420 consumes less power than the warm water heater 160 installed in the water tank 220 . Therefore, compared with the case where the water in the water tank 220 is kept warm using the warm water heater 160, the power consumption can be reduced in the case of keeping the water in the water tank 220 warm by supplying steam. Therefore, it is preferable that the pump 330 performs an intermittent water supply operation after the warm water heater 160 is stopped.

<Utilization of steam in dehydration process>

The effect of using steam in the dehydration step will be described using FIG. 1 , FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 .

In the dehydration process, the rotary drum 210 rotates at high speed. As shown in FIG. 1 , a large number of small holes 219 are formed in the peripheral wall 211 of the rotary drum 210 . Clothes accommodated in rotary drum 210 are pressed against upper wall 211 by centrifugal force generated as rotary drum 210 rotates. As a result, moisture contained in the laundry is discharged to the outside of rotary drum 210 through small holes 219 . Thus, the laundry is properly dehydrated.

The fibers of the dehydrated laundry tend to generate hydrogen bonds with each other. The hydrogen bonding between fibers is due to the wrinkling of clothing. When steam is supplied into the rotary drum 210, the steam breaks hydrogen bonds between fibers. As a result, the wrinkles of clothing are reduced. Therefore, it is preferable that the pump 330 performs an intermittent water supply operation while the laundry is being dehydrated. As a result of the intermittent water supply operation, steam is sprayed from nozzle 352 into rotary drum 210 at high pressure. As described above, the steam sprayed from the nozzle 352 traverses the storage tub 200 , so that the steam is uniformly blown onto the rotating clothes attached to the peripheral wall 211 . As a result, the clothes in rotary drum 210 are less likely to be wrinkled as a whole.

19A to 19C are schematic time charts showing the steam supply timing in the dehydration step. The steam supply timing will be described using FIG. 1 and FIG. 19A to FIG. 19C .

As shown in FIG. 19A , the steam supply mechanism 300 may start the supply of steam after a predetermined period ( T1 ) has elapsed from the start of the dehydration process. In this case, the laundry contains less moisture, and thus the laundry is efficiently moistened by the heat and moisture of the steam. As shown in FIGS. 19B and 19C , the steam supply mechanism 300 may start the supply of steam in synchronization with the start of the dehydration process. In this case, since the temperature of the clothes is raised in the initial stage of the dehydration process, the clothes are effectively humidified at a high temperature. As shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B , the steam supply mechanism 300 may also supply steam during a part of the dehydration process. As shown in FIG. 19C , the steam supply mechanism 300 may supply steam during the period from the start to the end of the dehydration process.

<Control of the door>

FIG. 20 is a schematic perspective view of washing machine 100 . The control structure for the door body 120 is demonstrated using FIG.1 and FIG.20.

The door body 120 shown in FIG. 20 is different from the door body 120 shown in FIG. 1 in that it is in an open position for opening the inlet 119 . Washing machine 100 includes locking mechanism 121 that locks door 120 at the closed position. The door body 120 in the closed position blocks the receiving slot 200 as shown in FIG. 1 .

The lock mechanism 121 includes a hook 123 attached to the door body 120 . A locking hole 124 corresponding to the hook portion 123 is formed on the front wall 111 of the housing 110 . When the door body 120 is in the closed position, the hook portion 123 is inserted into the locking hole 124 .

FIG. 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the front wall 111 around the lock hole 124 . The lock mechanism 121 will be further described using FIGS. 20 and 21 .

The locking mechanism 121 has a locking box 125 forming a locking hole 124 in cooperation with the front wall 111 . The lock box 125 includes a lock frame 126 mounted on the front wall 111 and a lock piece 127 arranged in the lock frame 126 . The locking piece 127 moves up and down in the locking frame 126 .

22A to 22C are cross-sectional views schematically showing the operation of the lock mechanism 121 . The operation of the lock mechanism 121 will be described using FIGS. 1 , 20 to 22C.

The locking piece 127 shown in FIG. 21 and FIG. 22A is at the upper end position of the moving stroke of the locking piece 127 . A recess 128 communicating with the lock hole 124 at an upper end position is formed in the lock piece 127 .

While the door body 120 is in the open position (see FIG. 20 ), the locking piece 127 is in the upper end position. After that, if the door body 120 is moved to the closed position, the hook portion 123 is inserted into the concave portion 128 through the locking hole 124 . As shown in FIG. 22B and FIG. 22C , when the locking piece 127 is displaced downward, the hook portion 123 engages with the locking frame 126 installed on the front wall 111 . Then, when the lock piece 127 is displaced upward, the engagement between the hook portion 123 and the lock frame 126 is released.

FIG. 23 is a block diagram schematically showing a control structure for the door body 120 based on the temperature of the steam generator 420 . Control of the door body 120 will be described using FIGS. 1 , 8B, and 22A to 23 .

The thermistor 426 described with reference to FIG. 8B detects the temperature of the main chip 423 . The thermistor 426 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the detected temperature to the control unit 122 .

The control unit 122 maintains the locking of the door body 120 by the locking mechanism 121 until the detection signal output from the thermistor 426 indicates a temperature below a predetermined value. As a result, the internal space of the storage tank 200 is isolated from the outside until the steam generator 420 reaches a predetermined temperature or lower. Therefore, the washing machine 100 is very safe.

FIG. 24 is a schematic flowchart of the control of the door body 120 based on the temperature of the steam generator 420 . The control of the door body 120 is demonstrated using FIG.13, FIG.15, FIG.23, and FIG.24.

(step S210)

Step S210 is performed when the laundry treatment using steam such as the above-mentioned washing step and dehydrating step is completed. In addition, the door body 120 is locked by the locking mechanism 121 during the treatment of laundry with steam.

In step S210 , the control unit 122 stops the heater 425 from heating the steam generator 420 . After the heater 425 stops heating the steam generator 420 under the control of the control unit 122 , step S220 is executed.

(step S220)

The water level sensor 321 described with reference to FIG. 13 detects the water level in the water storage tank 320 . Water level sensor 321 outputs a detection signal including information on the water level in water storage tank 320 to control unit 122 .

In step S220 , the control unit 122 determines whether the water storage tank 320 stores enough water to cool the steam generator 420 based on the detection signal from the water level sensor 321 . If the amount of water in the water storage tank 320 is insufficient, step S230 is executed. In other cases, execute step S240.

(step S230)

In step S230, the control part 122 opens the first water supply valve 310. As a result, the water storage tank 320 can store the water supplied to the steam generator 420 . Afterwards, step S220 is executed again.

(step S240)

In step S240, the control part 122 closes the first water supply valve 310. After that, step S250 is executed.

(step S250)

In step S250 , the control unit 122 controls the pump 330 to continuously supply water to the steam generator 420 . As a result, the steam generator 420 is rapidly cooled. After that, step S260 is executed.

(step S260)

The control unit 122 stores in advance a predetermined threshold "OTH" for the temperature of the steam generator 420 . In step S260, the control part 122 compares the temperature of the steam generator 420 indicated by the detection signal from the thermistor 426 with the threshold "OTH". If the temperature of the steam generator 420 exceeds the threshold "OTH", step S250 is performed again. In other cases, execute step S270. Therefore, until the temperature of the steam generator 420 falls below the threshold “OTH”, the pump 330 continues to supply water to the steam generator 420 under the control of the control unit 122 .

Before step S210 (that is, while the heater 425 is heating the steam generator 420 under the control of the controller 122), the pump 330 performs the intermittent water supply operation described with reference to FIG. 15 . In step S260, the operation of the pump 330 is switched to a continuous water supply operation.

(step S270)

In step S270 , the control part 122 controls the pump 330 to stop continuous water supply to the steam generator 420 . In addition, the pump 330 may continue to operate until the water in the water storage tank 320 is almost completely consumed. After the continuous water supply to the steam generator 420 is stopped, step S280 is performed.

(step S280)

In step S280 , the control unit 122 controls the locking mechanism 121 to unlock the door body 120 . Accordingly, the control unit 122 can appropriately control the unlocking timing of the locking mechanism 121 based on the temperature detected by the thermistor 426 .

<Second Embodiment>

Fig. 25 is a schematic developed perspective view of a steam generator 420A used in a washing machine exemplified as a laundry treatment device according to a second embodiment. The washing machine of the second embodiment has the same structure as the washing machine 100 of the first embodiment except for the structure of the steam generator 420A. Therefore, differences from the first embodiment will be described below. The description of the first embodiment applies to the washing machine of the second embodiment except for the following differences. In addition, the same code|symbol is attached|subjected to the same element as 1st Embodiment. Therefore, the description of the first embodiment is also applied to elements attached with the same symbols.

The steam generator 420A includes a main piece 423A, a cover piece 424A, and a backing ring 433 sandwiched between the main piece 423A and the cover piece 424A. Unlike the main piece 423 described in association with the first embodiment, no heater is mounted in the main piece 423A. On the other hand, a heater 425A is mounted in the cover sheet 424A.

FIG. 26 is a schematic perspective view of the cover sheet 424A. The attachment structure of the heater 425A is demonstrated using FIG.25 and FIG.26.

The cover sheet 424A has an inner seal wall 436 surrounded by an outer seal wall 435 . The shape of the inner sealing wall 436 is substantially the same as that of the inner chamber wall 432 of the main piece 423A. The inner sealing wall 436 coincides with the inner chamber wall 432 . As a result, a spiral flow path is formed in the chamber space 430 . The area of the lower surface 434 surrounded by the inner seal wall 436 faces the inlet port 437 formed in the main piece 423A, and therefore is referred to as a "facing area 439" in the following description. The heater 425A is attached in the cover sheet 424A so as to surround the facing area 439 . If the flow rate of water is adjusted so that the water flowing in from the inflow port 437 reaches the cover sheet 424A, since the facing region 439 becomes particularly high temperature, instantaneous evaporation is realized.

The above-mentioned embodiment mainly has the following structures.

The clothes processing device according to the above-mentioned embodiment includes: a storage tank for storing clothes; a steam generator for generating steam sprayed to the storage tank; a heater for heating the steam generator; a nozzle for injecting steam to the storage tank; injecting the steam into the storage tank; and a guide pipe guiding the steam from the steam generator to the nozzle. The guide pipe includes a branch pipe having: a parent pipe into which the steam flows; a first pipe toward the nozzle; and a second pipe different from the first pipe. The first pipe includes a portion disposed above a branch portion of the branch pipe.

According to the above configuration, the steam generator heated by the heater generates steam sprayed toward the storage tub for storing the clothes. The steam is sprayed into the storage tank through the nozzle. As a result, the laundry is treated using steam.

A guide pipe that guides steam from the steam generator to the nozzle includes a branch pipe having a main pipe into which the steam flows, a first pipe toward the nozzle, and a second pipe different from the first pipe. Since the first pipe includes a portion disposed above the branch portion of the branch pipe, steam is properly guided to the nozzle. On the other hand, impurities are difficult to go toward the first pipe due to gravity, and thus go toward the second pipe. Impurities are suitably disposed of through the second pipe.

In the above structure, the laundry treatment device may also include: a water supply mechanism for supplying water into the steam generator. The water may flow down through the second pipe during the continuous water supply operation of the water supply mechanism.

According to the above configuration, if the water supply mechanism continuously supplies water, the steam generator is cleaned. Accordingly, the impurity lumps causing a decrease in heat exchange efficiency are removed from the steam generator, whereby the steam generator can efficiently generate steam. Since the water flows down through the second pipe, it is difficult for the foreign mass separated from the steam generator to go toward the nozzle.

In the above structure, the first pipe may branch upward from the main pipe. The second pipe may branch downward from the main pipe. It may also be that the steam is sprayed from the nozzle through the main pipe and the first pipe while the water supply mechanism intermittently supplies the water to the steam generator. It may also be that when the water supply mechanism continuously supplies the water to the steam generator, the water flows into the storage tank through the main pipe and the second pipe.

According to the above configuration, since the first pipe is branched upward from the main pipe, steam is sprayed from the nozzle through the main pipe and the first pipe while the water supply mechanism intermittently supplies water to the steam generator. As a result, the laundry is treated using steam. Since the second pipe branches downward from the main pipe, water flows into the storage tank through the main pipe and the second pipe while the water supply mechanism continuously supplies water to the steam generator. As a result, it is difficult for the clogging of the nozzle by the foreign mass separated from the steam generator.

In the above configuration, the water supply means may include a pump for intermittently or continuously supplying the water to the steam generator.

According to the above structure, since the pump supplies water to the steam generator intermittently or continuously, steam generation and cleaning of the steam generator are selectively performed according to the operation of the pump.

In the above configuration, the storage tank may include: a rotating drum having a cylindrical peripheral wall surrounding the rotating shaft; and a water tank for accommodating the rotating drum. The water flowing down through the second pipe may be guided between the rotary drum and the water tank.

According to the above configuration, the water flowing down through the second pipe is guided between the rotary drum having a cylindrical peripheral wall surrounding the rotary shaft and the water tank housing the rotary drum, so that foreign matter contained in the water is less likely to come into contact with the clothes.

In the above structure, the clothes treating device may further include: a drainage path for draining water from the storage tank. The water flowing down through the second pipe may also be guided to the drainage path.

According to the above structure, the water flowing down through the second pipe is guided to the drain path, and thus, the foreign matter separated from the steam generator is properly discharged from the laundry treating apparatus.

In the above configuration, the piping resistance of the flow path from the main pipe to the first pipe may be smaller than the piping resistance of the flow path from the main pipe to the second pipe.

According to the above configuration, the piping resistance of the flow path from the main pipe to the first pipe is smaller than the piping resistance of the flow path from the main pipe to the second pipe, whereby most of the steam flows into the first pipe through the main pipe. Afterwards, the steam is sprayed into the storage tank from the nozzle. As a result, the laundry is properly treated using steam. On the other hand, water continuously supplied to the steam generator is strongly acted by gravity, and thus, flows into the second pipe through the main pipe. Impurities flow into the storage tank through the main pipe and the second pipe together with the continuously supplied water. Therefore, impurities in the water are properly treated.

In the above structure, the branch angle between the main pipe and the first pipe may also be an obtuse angle. Alternatively, the branch angle between the main pipe and the second pipe may be an acute angle.

According to the above structure, the branching angle between the main pipe and the first pipe is an obtuse angle, and the branching angle between the main pipe and the second pipe is an acute angle, so the piping resistance of the flow path from the main pipe to the first pipe is smaller than that of the flow path from the main pipe to the first pipe. The piping resistance of the flow path from the primary pipe to the secondary pipe. Therefore, most of the steam flows into the first pipe through the mother pipe. Afterwards, the steam is sprayed into the storage tank from the nozzle. As a result, the laundry is properly treated using steam. On the other hand, water continuously supplied to the steam generator is strongly acted by gravity, and thus, flows into the second pipe through the main pipe. Impurities flow into the storage tank through the main pipe and the second pipe together with the continuously supplied water. Therefore, impurities in the water are properly treated.

In the above configuration, the water supply mechanism may perform the continuous water supply operation after the heating by the heater is stopped.

According to the above structure, after the heater stops heating, the water supply mechanism performs continuous water supply operation, so the temperature of the steam generator heated by the heater drops rapidly.

In the above configuration, the laundry processing apparatus may further include: a control unit that controls the heater and the pump. The control unit may cause the pump to continuously supply the water to the steam generator after the heater stops heating the steam generator.

According to the above configuration, since the controller continuously causes the pump to supply the water to the steam generator after the heater stops heating the steam generator, the temperature of the steam generator heated by the heater drops rapidly.

In the above structure, the laundry treatment device may further include: a detection unit configured to detect the temperature of the steam generator. The control unit may cause the pump to continuously supply the water to the steam generator until the temperature detected by the detection unit falls below a predetermined temperature.

According to the above configuration, the detection unit detects the temperature of the steam generator heated by the heater. The control unit makes the pump continuously supply water to the steam generator until the temperature detected by the detection unit falls below a predetermined temperature, so that the temperature of the steam generator heated by the heater drops rapidly.

Industrial availability

The principles of the above-described embodiments are suitable for use in an apparatus for treating laundry using steam.

Claims (14)

1. a device for clothing processing, it is characterised in that including:

Accepting groove, is used for housing medicated clothing；

Steam generator, for producing the steam sprayed to this accepting groove；

Heater, is heated this steam generator；

Nozzle, sprays described steam in described accepting groove；And

Guiding tube, from described steam generator to steam described in described nozzle guide, wherein,

This guiding tube comprises branched pipe, and this branched pipe has: female pipe that described steam flows into；Specify first pipe in the described steam path towards described nozzle；And be different from this first pipe second pipe, wherein,

Described first pipe comprises and is disposed in part more above compared with the branch of described branched pipe,

Described device for clothing processing also includes:

Water supply mechanism, supplies water in described steam generator, wherein, carries out at this water supply mechanism the period of continuous print water supply action, and described water is by under described second pipe flow；And

Drainage path, for from described accepting groove draining, wherein, being directed to described drainage path by the described water under described second pipe flow.

2. device for clothing processing according to claim 1, it is characterised in that:

Described first pipe manages branch upward from described mother,

Described second pipe manages branch downwards from described mother,

Supply the period of described water off and on to described steam generator at described water supply mechanism, described steam is sprayed from described nozzle by described female pipe and described first pipe,

Supply the period of described water continuously to described steam generator at described water supply mechanism, described water is entered in described accepting groove by described female pipe and described second pipe flow.

3. device for clothing processing according to claim 1 and 2, it is characterised in that:

Described water supply mechanism comprises the pump intermittently or continuously supplying described water to described steam generator.

4. device for clothing processing according to claim 3, it is characterised in that:

Described accepting groove comprises: have the rotation cylinder of the perisporium of the drum surrounding rotating shaft；And house the tank of this rotation cylinder,

It is directed between described rotation cylinder and described tank by the described water under described second pipe flow.

5. device for clothing processing according to claim 3, it is characterised in that:

From described female pipe towards the pipe arrangement resistance of the flow path of described first pipe less than the pipe arrangement resistance from described female pipe towards the flow path of described second pipe.

6. device for clothing processing according to claim 4, it is characterised in that:

From described female pipe towards the pipe arrangement resistance of the flow path of described first pipe less than the pipe arrangement resistance from described female pipe towards the flow path of described second pipe.

7. device for clothing processing according to claim 5, it is characterised in that:

Branches angle between described female pipe and described first pipe is obtuse angle,

Branches angle between described female pipe and described second pipe is acute angle.

8. device for clothing processing according to claim 6, it is characterised in that:

Branches angle between described female pipe and described first pipe is obtuse angle,

Branches angle between described female pipe and described second pipe is acute angle.

9. the device for clothing processing according to any one of claim 1～2 and 4～8, it is characterised in that:

After the heating based on described heater is stopped, described water supply mechanism performs described continuous print water supply action.

10. device for clothing processing according to claim 3, it is characterised in that:

After the heating based on described heater is stopped, described water supply mechanism performs described continuous print water supply action.

11. device for clothing processing according to claim 3, it is characterised in that also include:

Control portion, controls described heater and described pump, wherein,

This control portion, after the heating of described steam generator is stopped by described heater, makes described pump supply described water to described steam generator continuously.

12. the device for clothing processing according to any one of claim 4 to 8, it is characterised in that also include:

Control portion, controls described heater and described pump, wherein,

This control portion, after the heating of described steam generator is stopped by described heater, makes described pump supply described water to described steam generator continuously.

13. device for clothing processing according to claim 11, it is characterised in that also include:

Test section, detects the temperature of described steam generator, wherein,

Described control portion makes described pump supply described water to described steam generator continuously, until the described temperature that described test section detects reaches below assigned temperature.

14. device for clothing processing according to claim 12, it is characterised in that also include:

Test section, detects the temperature of described steam generator, wherein,

Described control portion makes described pump supply described water to described steam generator continuously, until the described temperature that described test section detects reaches below assigned temperature.