JP2024169080A - Treatment liquid dispenser and washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide: a treatment liquid feeding device capable of achieving downsizing; and a washing machine having the treatment liquid feeding device.SOLUTION: A treatment liquid feeding device according to an embodiment comprises: a first liquid agent accommodating part and a second liquid agent accommodating part; and a feeding mechanism to feed a first liquid agent and a second liquid agent in the first liquid agent accommodating part and the second liquid agent accommodating part together with water as a treatment liquid into a washing tank. The feeding mechanism comprises: a housing; an inlet channel; a feeding channel; a first liquid agent extracting channel; a second liquid agent extracting channel; a first intermediate channel; and a second intermediate channel. The first intermediate channel has a first storage area to store the first liquid agent extracted from the first liquid agent accommodating part. The second intermediate channel has a second storage area to store the second liquid agent extracted from the second liquid agent accommodating part. The first storage area is formed on a first surface of the housing. The second storage area is formed on a second surface, different from the first surface, of the housing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 26

Description

This disclosure relates to a treatment liquid dispenser and a washing machine.

An example of the treatment liquid injection device equipped in the washing machine is the device disclosed in Patent Document 1. The treatment liquid injection device described in Patent Document 1 has a housing that contains a first liquid storage box in which a first liquid agent is stored and a second liquid storage box in which a second liquid agent is stored. In the treatment liquid injection device, the first liquid agent sucked out from the first liquid agent storage box using negative pressure is stored in a part of a flow path (hereinafter referred to as the "first flow path") for injecting the first liquid agent into the washing tub, and then the first liquid agent is supplied to the washing tub together with water. Similarly, the second liquid agent sucked out from the second liquid agent storage box using negative pressure is stored in a part of a flow path (hereinafter referred to as the "second flow path") for injecting the second liquid agent into the washing tub, and then the second liquid agent is supplied to the washing tub together with water. In the above-mentioned treatment liquid supply device, an area for temporarily storing the first liquid agent in the first flow path is formed on the upper surface of the top wall of the housing that contains the first liquid storage box and the second liquid agent storage box, and an area for temporarily storing the second liquid agent in the second flow path is formed.

International Publication No. 2020/113954

In order to store the necessary amounts of the first liquid agent and the second liquid agent to be dispensed into the washing tub, the area for storing the first liquid agent and the area for storing the second liquid agent need to have a certain length. In this case, the top wall also needs to be large enough to form the areas for storing the first liquid agent and the second liquid agent. On the other hand, there is a demand for a smaller treatment liquid dispenser for washing machines.

The present disclosure aims to provide a treatment liquid dispenser that can be made compact and a washing machine equipped with the treatment liquid dispenser.

A treatment liquid injection device according to one aspect of the present disclosure has a first liquid agent storage section that stores a first liquid agent, a second liquid agent storage section that stores a second liquid agent, and a supply mechanism that supplies the first liquid agent and the second liquid agent in the first liquid agent storage section and the second liquid agent storage section together with water to a washing tub as a treatment liquid, and the supply mechanism includes a housing in which a storage space is formed to store the first liquid agent storage section and the second liquid agent storage section, an inlet flow path through which water is introduced from the outside, an injection flow path for injecting the treatment liquid into the washing tub, a first liquid agent extraction flow path for extracting the first liquid agent from the first liquid agent storage section, a second liquid agent extraction flow path for extracting the second liquid agent from the second liquid agent storage section, the water supply flow path, and the The housing has a first intermediate flow path that connects the outlet flow path and is connected to the first liquid agent extraction flow path, and a second intermediate flow path that connects the water supply flow path and the outlet flow path and is connected to the second liquid agent extraction flow path, the first intermediate flow path has a first storage area that stores the first liquid agent extracted from the first liquid agent storage unit by the first liquid agent extraction flow path, and the second intermediate flow path has a second storage flow area that stores the second liquid agent extracted from the second liquid agent storage unit by the second liquid agent extraction flow path, the first storage area is formed on a first surface of the housing, and the second storage area is formed on a second surface of the housing that is different from the first surface.

In the above-mentioned treatment liquid injection device, a first storage area is formed on a first surface, and a second storage area is formed on a second surface. That is, the first storage area and the second storage area are formed on different surfaces of the housing. Therefore, the first surface and the second surface can be made smaller than when the first storage area and the second storage area are formed on the same surface, and therefore the treatment liquid injection device can be made more compact.

The housing has a bottom wall, a top wall facing the bottom wall, a rear wall connecting the bottom wall and the top wall, a first side wall connecting the bottom wall, the top wall and the rear wall, and a second side wall connecting the bottom wall, the top wall and the rear wall and facing the first side wall, and the storage space is formed by the bottom wall, the top wall, the first side wall and the second side wall, and the first surface may be the outer surface of the top wall, and the second surface may be the outer surface of the rear wall.

In the above configuration, the first storage area is formed on the outer surface of the top wall, and the second storage area is formed on the outer surface of the rear wall. The outer surface of the rear wall is usually dead space. When dead space is effectively utilized in this way, it is easy to realize a compact processing liquid introduction device.

Each of the first storage area and the second storage area may be folded at least once. This makes it easier to achieve a smaller size of the treatment liquid supply device.

A washing machine according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a washing tub and the treatment liquid dispenser. The washing machine includes the treatment liquid dispenser. The treatment liquid dispenser has a configuration that allows for miniaturization, so that the washing machine can be miniaturized or a washing tub with a larger capacity can be used in the washing machine.

The present disclosure provides a treatment liquid dispenser that can be made compact and a washing machine equipped with the treatment liquid dispenser.

FIG. 1 is a side view of a washing machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the washing machine shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a view showing a state in which the second liquid agent-receiving portion is pulled out from the supply mechanism in the washing machine shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the treatment liquid supply device. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of one process in the case where water is supplied to the washing tub by the treatment liquid supplying device. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a process for taking out the first liquid from the first liquid storage unit by the treatment liquid supply device. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a step of introducing the first liquid agent taken out in the step shown in FIG. 6 . FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a process for extracting the second liquid from the second liquid container by the treatment liquid supply device. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of a step of introducing the second liquid agent taken out in the step shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a treatment liquid supplying device according to an embodiment. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a first liquid agent container (liquid agent container) according to one embodiment. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a second liquid agent container (liquid agent container) according to one embodiment. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the liquid agent storage section with the cover member removed. FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid agent storage section with the cover member removed. 15 is a perspective view of a supply mechanism included in the liquid agent storage unit shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a water supply unit included in the supply mechanism shown in FIG. 15. FIG. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line XVII-XVII in FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a negative pressure generating unit included in the supply mechanism shown in FIG. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIX-XIX in FIG. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line XX-XX in FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXI-XXI in FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a housing provided in the supply mechanism shown in FIG. 15. FIG. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the housing with the top wall removed. FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the bottom wall. FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the positional relationship between a valve included in the first liquid agent storage portion and a valve provided in a first liquid agent extraction flow path connected to the first liquid agent storage portion in the housing. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the housing shown in FIG. 22. FIG. FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining a flow path formed on the upper surface of the top wall. FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining a flow path formed on the rear surface of the rear wall. FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the top wall as viewed from the bottom side. FIG. 30 is a diagram for explaining the flow of liquid that has fallen from the top wall toward the bottom wall.

Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Identical elements will be given the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations will be omitted. The dimensional ratios of the drawings do not necessarily match those in the description.

Figure 1 is a side view of a washing machine according to one embodiment. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the washing machine shown in Figure 1. In the following, the mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z directions shown in Figure 1 may be used to explain the washing machine 1. The X, Y, and Z directions correspond to the front-rear, left-right, and height directions (or the up-down or vertical directions) in the installation state of the washing machine 1 shown in Figure 1. In the following explanation, terms indicating directions such as "front," "back," "up," "down," "left," and "right" are terms based on the installation state of the washing machine 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2.

The schematic configuration of the washing machine 1 will be described. The washing machine 1 shown in Figs. 1 and 2 is a vertical washing machine. The washing machine 1 has a housing 2. The housing 2 forms the outer shell of the washing machine 1. The housing 2 is made of metal, for example. The housing 2 has a hollow body 2a with an open top and bottom. The top of the body 2a is covered with a top plate 2b, and a footrest 2c is attached to the bottom of the body 2a. When viewed from the Z direction, the shape of the body 2a is quadrangular (rectangular or square).

The top panel 2b has an inlet for inserting laundry. The inlet is covered by a top lid 3. The top lid 3 is attached to the top panel 2b so that it can be opened and closed freely. An operation panel unit 4 is provided at the front of the top panel 2b. A number of buttons for operating the washing machine 1 are arranged on the operation panel unit 4. The operation panel unit 4 is provided in the washing machine 1 and is electrically connected to a control unit that controls the washing machine 1. The control unit controls the washing machine 1 in response to user instructions input through the operation panel unit 4.

As shown in FIG. 1, the housing 2 contains an outer tub 5a and an inner tub (washing tub) 5b.

The outer tub 5a has a cylindrical shape with a bottom. The outer tub 5a is, for example, a resin tub. The outer tub 5a is elastically suspended from the housing 2 by a plurality of (for example, four) hanging rods having vibration isolation devices. The outer tub 5a is configured so that the treatment liquid for laundry is supplied to the outer tub 5a through a water supply channel provided in the housing 2, and the treatment liquid can be discharged from the outer tub 5a through a drain channel provided in the housing 2. In this specification, the "treatment liquid" means a liquid corresponding to each process such as the washing process and the rinsing process of the laundry. Therefore, in the washing process, the treatment liquid may be a liquid containing detergent, and in the rinsing process, the treatment liquid may be water or a liquid containing fabric softener. In the following, for convenience of explanation, the liquid flowing through the flow path may be specifically referred to as the first liquid agent, the second liquid agent, and water, or may be collectively described as the treatment liquid.

The inner tub 5b has a cylindrical shape with a bottom. The inner tub 5b is smaller than the outer tub 5a and is arranged inside the outer tub 5a coaxially with the outer tub 5a. The inner tub 5b is arranged inside the outer tub 5a so as to be rotatable around a rotation axis extending in the Z direction. The inner tub 5b is, for example, a metal tub. The inner tub 5b is a tub for washing or spin-drying laundry placed in the inner tub 5b. A plurality of through holes are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the inner tub 5b. This allows the washing liquid to move between the outer tub 5a and the inner tub 5b. A rotor (pulsator) 6 is rotatably arranged at the bottom of the inner tub 5b.

A drive unit 7 is also housed in the housing 2 to drive and rotate the inner tub 5b and the rotor 6. The drive unit 7 is disposed at the bottom of the outer tub 5a. The drive unit 7 generates power (torque) to drive the inner tub 5b and the rotor 6. The drive unit 7 rotates the inner tub 5b and the rotor 6 using the power. For example, in the washing and rinsing processes, the drive unit 7 transmits the power only to the rotor 6 to rotate only the rotor 6, and in the spin-drying process, the drive unit 7 transmits the power only to the rotor 6 and the inner tub 5b to rotate the rotor 6 and the inner tub 5b together.

The washing machine 1 is equipped with a treatment liquid injection device 10 for injecting liquid into the inner tub 5b.

The treatment liquid input device 10 is incorporated in the upper rear part of the housing 2 so that the front part of the treatment liquid input device 10 is exposed when the top lid 3 is open as shown in FIG. 2. The treatment liquid input device 10 is arranged so that an input port for inputting the liquid into the inner tank 5b is located above the inner tank 5b. This makes it possible to input the liquid into the inner tank 5b from the input port. The treatment liquid input device 10 includes a first liquid storage section 20A, a second liquid storage section 20B, and a supply mechanism 30.

The first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B store a liquid. Examples of liquids include liquid detergent and fabric softener. The first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B store different liquids. The liquid stored in the first liquid storage unit 20A is referred to as the first liquid, and the liquid stored in the second liquid storage unit 20B is referred to as the second liquid. Unless otherwise specified, the first liquid is a liquid detergent and the second liquid is a fabric softener.

The first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B are contained in a housing (casing) 40 of the supply mechanism 30. The first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B are slidable relative to the housing 40. In other words, the housing 40 has a storage space that slidably contains the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B.

As shown in FIG. 3, the second liquid agent can be replenished with the second liquid agent by pulling out the second liquid agent storage unit 20B from the housing 40. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the state in which the second liquid agent storage unit 20B is pulled out from the supply mechanism 30 in the washing machine 1 shown in FIG. 2. Although the case of the second liquid agent storage unit 20B has been explained using FIG. 3, the first liquid agent can be replenished with the first liquid agent by pulling out the first liquid agent storage unit 20A.

In the treatment liquid supply device 10, it is also possible to remove the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B from the housing 40. In other words, the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B are attached to the housing 40 in a detachable manner.

The schematic configuration of the treatment liquid supplying device 10 will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the treatment liquid supplying device 10. Figure 4 focuses on the flow path of the treatment liquid (water containing the first or second liquid agent, or water (water not containing any liquid agent)) in the treatment liquid supplying device 10, and corresponds to a piping diagram of the treatment liquid supplying device 10.

The treatment liquid introduction device 10 has a water supply flow path 11, a first main flow path (first intermediate flow path) 12A, a second main flow path (second intermediate flow path) 12B, and an introduction flow path 13.

The water inlet 11a of the water supply flow path 11 is connected to the hose attachment part of the washing machine 1 via a hose or the like. The hose attachment part is further connected to a water faucet via a hose or the like. Thus, water from the water faucet flows into the water inlet 11a, and water (treatment liquid) flows into the water supply flow path 11. The water that flows into the water supply flow path 11 from the water inlet 11a flows through the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B into the input flow path 13, and is then input into the inner tub 5b from the input port 13a of the input flow path 13. In the following description, "upstream" and "downstream" are terms that refer to the flow direction of the treatment liquid from the water inlet 11a toward the input port 13a.

The treatment liquid introduction device 10 is equipped with a water supply valve V1a and a water supply valve V1b that control the inflow of treatment liquid from the water supply flow path 11 to the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B.

When both the water supply valve V1a and the water supply valve V1b are open, water flows from the water supply flow path 11 into both the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B. When the water supply valve V1a is open and the water supply valve V1b is closed, water flows from the water supply flow path 11 into the first main flow path 12A, while the inflow of water into the second main flow path 12B is blocked. Conversely, when the water supply valve V1a is closed and the water supply valve V1b is open, water flows from the water supply flow path 11 into the second main flow path 12B, while the inflow of water into the first main flow path 12A is blocked. When both the water supply valves V1a and V1b are closed, the inflow of water from the water supply flow path 11 into both the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B is blocked. In this embodiment, the water supply valve (first valve) V1a and the water supply valve (second valve) V1b are solenoid valves. The water supply valves as the first and second valves are not limited to solenoid valves.

The treatment liquid introduction device 10 includes a flow path switching unit U1 that switches the flow of the treatment liquid flowing in the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B into the input flow path 13. The flow path switching unit U1 is a part for switching between flowing the treatment liquid from the first main flow path 12A into the input flow path 13, flowing the treatment liquid from the second main flow path 12B into the input flow path 13, and flowing the treatment liquid from both the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B into the input flow path 13.

As shown in FIG. 4, an example of the flow path switching unit U1 has a check valve (seventh valve) V2a provided in the first main flow path 12A and a check valve (eighth valve) V2b provided in the second main flow path 12B. When the water supply valve V1a is opened and a flow of the treatment liquid from upstream to downstream occurs in the first main flow path 12A, the check valve V2a flows the treatment liquid from the first main flow path 12A to the input flow path 13. When the water supply valve V1b is opened and a flow of the treatment liquid from upstream to downstream occurs in the second main flow path 12B, the check valve V2b flows the treatment liquid from the second main flow path 12B to the input flow path 13. Although check valves are exemplified as the seventh and eighth valves, the seventh and eighth valves are not limited in type as long as they can achieve the same function as check valves.

The first main flow path 12A is connected to the first liquid agent extraction flow path 14A. When the first liquid agent storage unit 20A is attached to the housing 40, the first liquid agent storage unit 20A is connected to the first liquid agent extraction flow path 14A so that the first liquid agent can be extracted from the first liquid agent storage unit 20A. As a result, when the first liquid agent storage unit 20A is contained in the housing 40, the first liquid agent storage unit 20A is connected to the first main flow path 12A via the first liquid agent extraction flow path 14A.

A check valve (fifth valve) V3a is disposed in the first liquid extraction flow path 14A to prevent backflow of the treatment liquid, such as water, in the first main flow path 12A into the first liquid storage unit 20A, and to prevent leakage of the treatment liquid in the first main flow path 12A when the first liquid storage unit 20A is removed. Although a check valve is exemplified as the fifth valve, the type of the fifth valve is not limited as long as it can achieve the same function as the check valve.

The second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B is connected to the second main flow path 12B. When the second liquid agent storage unit 20B is attached to the housing 40, the second liquid agent storage unit 20B is connected to the second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B so that the second liquid agent can be extracted from the second liquid agent storage unit 20B. As a result, when the second liquid agent storage unit 20B is contained in the housing 40, the second liquid agent storage unit 20B is connected to the second main flow path 12B via the second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B.

A check valve (sixth valve) V3b is arranged in the second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B to prevent backflow of treatment liquid such as water in the second main flow path 12B into the second liquid agent storage unit 20B, and to prevent leakage of treatment liquid in the second main flow path 12B when the second liquid agent storage unit 20B is removed. Although a check valve is exemplified as the sixth valve, the sixth valve is not limited to a particular type as long as it can achieve the same function as the check valve.

The treatment liquid supply device 10 includes a negative pressure generating unit U2 for sucking out the liquid from each of the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B. In this embodiment, the negative pressure generating unit U2 has a first venturi section 15A provided in a part of the first main flow path 12A and a second venturi section 15B provided in a part of the second main flow path 12B. The first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B generate negative pressure by the Venturi effect. The first venturi section 15A is disposed upstream of the connection between the first liquid extraction flow path 14A and the first main flow path 12A in the first main flow path 12A. The second venturi section 15B is disposed upstream of the connection between the second liquid extraction flow path 14B and the second main flow path 12B in the second main flow path 12B.

The first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B are connected by a connecting flow path 16. A flow meter 17 is provided in the connecting flow path 16. The results of the flow meter 17 may be analyzed by a control unit that controls the washing machine 1.

In the treatment liquid introduction device 10, the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B are connected to the introduction flow path 13 by a bypass flow path 18 that bypasses the negative pressure generating unit U2. The upstream side of the bypass flow path 18 branches into two and is connected to the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B. The connection parts of the bypass flow path 18 with the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B are located upstream of the negative pressure generating unit U2. In the bypass flow path 18, a relief valve (third valve) V4a that controls the flow of treatment liquid from the first main flow path 12A to the bypass flow path 18 is arranged near the connection part between the first main flow path 12A and the bypass flow path 18. In the bypass flow path 18, a relief valve (fourth valve) V4b that controls the flow of treatment liquid from the second main flow path 12B to the bypass flow path 18 is arranged near the connection part between the second main flow path 12B and the bypass flow path 18. Although relief valves have been given as examples of the third and fourth valves, there are no limitations on the type of valve, etc., of the third and fourth valves as long as they can achieve the same function as the relief valves described above.

Here, we will briefly explain the liquid injection method using the treatment liquid injection device 10. We will briefly explain the liquid injection method based on the state in which the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent storage unit 20B are installed in the housing 40, the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent storage unit 20B are connected to the first liquid agent extraction flow path 14A and the second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B, and water can flow from the water tap into the water supply port 11a.

First, the water supply valves V1a and V1b are opened. As a result, as shown in FIG. 5, water (treatment liquid) flows into the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B. At this time, the water supply valves V1a and V1b are opened so that the pressure (water pressure) in the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B is substantially the same. The check valves V2a and V2b and the relief valves V4a and V4b are opened by the pressure of the water flowing through the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B. As a result, water flows into the input flow path 13 from both the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B through the path passing through the negative pressure generating unit U2 and the flow path switching unit U1, and water flows into the input flow path 13 through the path passing through the bypass flow path 18. The water that flows into the input flow path 13 in this way is supplied to the inner tank 5b (water passing process). FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of water in the water passing process. In FIG. 5, the flow of water is shown diagrammatically by arrows.

During the water flow process, water also flows into the connecting flow path 16. Therefore, the connecting flow path 16 is also filled with water. During the water flow process, the check valves V3a and V3b are maintained in a closed state. Therefore, water does not flow into the first liquid agent storage section 20A and the second liquid agent storage section 20B.

After supplying a certain amount of water to the inner tank 5b as described above, the water supply valves V1a and V1b are closed. This keeps the first main flow path 12A, the second main flow path 12B, and the connecting flow path 16 filled with water (filling process).

After carrying out the above-mentioned filling process, if a first liquid agent is to be added, a first liquid agent removal process and a first liquid agent addition process are carried out, and if a second liquid agent is to be added, a second liquid agent removal process and a second liquid agent addition process are carried out.

First, the case of adding the first liquid will be described. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of water and the first liquid in the first liquid extraction process. Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of water and the first liquid in the first liquid addition process. In Figs. 6 and 7, the flow of water is indicated by solid arrows, and the flow of the first liquid is indicated by dashed arrows.

In the first liquid extraction process, only the water supply valve V1b is opened. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, water flows from the water supply flow path 11 to the second main flow path 12B, but water does not flow from the water supply flow path 11 to the first main flow path 12A. In this water flow, the check valve V2b and the relief valve V4b are open, but the check valve V2a and the relief valve V4a are closed. As a result, water flows from the water supply flow path 11 to the input flow path 13 via the second main flow path 12B, and water flows from the water supply flow path 11 to the input flow path 13 via the second main flow path 12B and the bypass flow path 18.

The negative pressure generated in the second venturi portion 15B arranged in the second main flow path 12B causes the water in the first main flow path 12A and the connecting flow path 16 to flow through the connecting flow path 16 and the second venturi portion 15B to the second main flow path 12B. In this way, the water flows from the first main flow path 12A to the second main flow path 12B, and the pressure toward the first venturi portion 15A acts on the check valve V3a, opening the check valve V3a. As a result, the first liquid agent in the first liquid agent storage portion 20A is sucked into the first liquid agent extraction flow path 14A, and the first liquid agent is extracted toward the first main flow path 12A. At this time, the first liquid agent is extracted in the first main flow path 12A so as to fill the first storage area that temporarily stores the extracted first liquid agent. The first liquid agent stored in the first storage area is the first liquid agent to be introduced into the inner tank 5b as described below.

In the first liquid extraction process, the amount of water flowing through the connecting flow path 16 is measured by a flow meter 17 provided in the connecting flow path 16, and when the measured value reaches a predetermined water amount, it is determined that the desired first liquid has been extracted. The predetermined water amount is the amount of water filled into the first main flow path 12A in the filling process, which corresponds to the amount of the first liquid to be sucked out (the amount to fill the first storage area). The amount of the first liquid to be sucked out is set so that the first liquid does not flow up to the flow meter 17.

At this stage, the first liquid agent introduction process is carried out by opening the water supply valve V1a. By opening the water supply valve V1a, water flows into the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B, in the same manner as in the water passing process. As a result, as shown by the solid and dashed arrows in FIG. 7, the first liquid agent in the first storage area is introduced into the inner tank 5b together with water. In the first liquid agent introduction process, water also flows into the introduction flow path 13 via the bypass flow path 18, in the same manner as in the water passing process.

By continuing to flow a certain amount of water after the first liquid agent has been added, the first liquid agent remaining in the first main flow path 12A and the like is also washed away and added together with the water to the inner tank 5b. In other words, the parts of the first main flow path 12A and the like through which water flows are cleaned in the same way as in the water passing step (cleaning step). Here, for the sake of convenience, the first liquid agent introduction step and the cleaning step have been described separately, but the first liquid agent introduction step and the cleaning step may be a single step.

The above-mentioned cleaning process prevents the first liquid from being mixed into the treatment liquid, for example, when the second liquid in the second liquid storage section 20B is added after the first liquid is added to the inner tank 5b. The above-mentioned cleaning process corresponds to the above-mentioned water passing process for the second liquid when the second liquid is added after the first liquid is added to the inner tank 5b.

Next, the case of adding the second liquid will be described. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of water and the second liquid in the second liquid extraction process. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of water and the second liquid in the second liquid addition process. In FIGS. 8 and 9, the flow of water is indicated by solid arrows, and the flow of the first liquid is indicated by dashed arrows.

In the second liquid agent extraction process, after the filling process, only the water supply valve V1a is opened. In this case, as shown in FIG. 8, water flows from the water supply flow path 11 to the second main flow path 12B, but water does not flow from the water supply flow path 11 to the first main flow path 12A. In this case, the check valve V2a and the relief valve V4a are open, but the check valve V2b and the relief valve V4b are closed. As a result, a flow of treatment liquid from the water supply flow path 11 to the input flow path 13 via the first main flow path 12A, and a flow of water from the water supply flow path 11 to the input flow path 13 via the first main flow path 12A and the bypass flow path 18 are generated.

In this case, the negative pressure generated in the first venturi portion 15A arranged in the first main flow path 12A causes the water in the second main flow path 12B and the connecting flow path 16 to flow through the connecting flow path 16 and the first venturi portion 15A to the first main flow path 12A. In this way, the flow of water from the second main flow path 12B to the first main flow path 12A causes pressure toward the second venturi portion 15B to act on the check valve V3b, opening the check valve V3b. As a result, the second liquid agent in the second liquid agent storage portion 20B is sucked into the second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B, and the second liquid agent is extracted toward the second main flow path 12B. At this time, the second liquid agent is extracted in the second main flow path 12B so as to fill the second storage area that temporarily stores the extracted second liquid agent. The second liquid agent stored in the second storage area is the second liquid agent to be poured into the inner tank 5b as described below.

In the second liquid extraction process, the amount of water flowing through the connecting flow path 16 is measured by a flow meter 17 provided in the connecting flow path 16, and when the measured value reaches a predetermined water amount, it is determined that the desired second liquid has been extracted. The predetermined water amount is the amount of water filled into the second main flow path 12B in the filling process, which corresponds to the amount of the second liquid to be sucked out (the amount to fill the first storage area). The amount of the second liquid to be sucked out is set so that the second liquid does not flow up to the flow meter 17.

At this stage, the water supply valve V1b is opened. As a result, in the same manner as in the water flow process, water flows into the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B, and the second liquid agent that has accumulated between the second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B and the second venturi portion 15B is poured into the inner tank 5b together with the water, as shown by the solid and dashed arrows in FIG. 9.

By continuing to flow a certain amount of water after the second liquid agent has been added, the second liquid agent remaining in the second main flow path 12B and the like is also washed away and added to the inner tank 5b together with the water. In other words, the parts of the second main flow path 12B and the like through which water flows are cleaned in the same way as in the water passing step (cleaning step). Here, for the sake of convenience, the second liquid agent introduction step and the cleaning step have been described separately, but the second liquid agent introduction step and the cleaning step may be a single step.

The control of the supply mechanism 30 in the above-mentioned liquid supply method may be performed by a control unit that controls the washing machine 1, or the supply mechanism 30 may have a control unit for controlling each device of the supply mechanism 30 (water supply valves V1a, V1b, etc.).

Next, an example of the configuration of the treatment liquid supplying device 10 will be specifically described. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the treatment liquid supplying device 10. As shown in FIG. 10, the treatment liquid supplying device 10 includes two liquid storage units 20 and a supply mechanism 30. When the two liquid storage units 20 are described separately, as described above, one of the two liquid storage units 20 will be referred to as the "first liquid storage unit 20A" and the other will be referred to as the "second liquid storage unit 20B." The first liquid storage unit 20A stores a first liquid, and the second liquid storage unit 20B stores a second liquid that is different from the first liquid.

[Liquid storage section]
Fig. 11 is a perspective view of one of the two liquid agent storage units 20. Specifically, Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the first liquid agent storage unit 20A. Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the other of the two liquid agent storage units 20. Specifically, Fig. 12 is a perspective view of the second liquid agent storage unit 20B. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the liquid agent storage unit 20 with the cover 22 removed. Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid agent storage unit 20 with the cover 22 removed. Figs. 13 and 14 are drawings of the case where the liquid agent storage unit 20 is the second liquid agent storage unit 20B.

The liquid storage section 20 has a liquid tank (liquid container) 21. The liquid tank 21 is a container for storing a liquid. The top surface (or upper part) of the liquid tank 21 is open. As shown in FIG. 13, the liquid tank 21 has a bottom wall 211, and a front wall 212, a left side wall 213, a right side wall 214, and a rear wall 215 that are provided so as to surround the periphery of the bottom wall 211. The front wall 212, the left side wall 213, the right side wall 214, and the rear wall 215 may rise vertically from the peripheral portion of the bottom wall 211 via a curved portion. An example of the material of the liquid tank 21 is a resin. Examples of the resin include polypropylene and polyethylene terephthalate. When the liquid tank 21 is a resin tank, the liquid tank 21 is, for example, integrally molded from resin.

The liquid agent tank 21 configured as described above has a box shape with an open top. As shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the top of the liquid agent tank 21 is closed by a cover 22. In this embodiment, the cover 22 is detachable from the liquid agent tank 21. A liquid agent injection port for injecting the liquid agent into the liquid agent tank 21 is formed in the cover 22 near the front wall 212. In one embodiment, the liquid agent injection port is blocked by a lid 23. The lid 23 may be attached to the cover 22 so that the liquid agent injection port can be opened and closed. A user can inject the liquid agent into the liquid agent tank 21 by opening the lid 23.

A front door 24 may be attached to the outer surface of the front wall 212. The front door 24 is provided with a liquid volume window 241 formed of, for example, a transparent material. The user can check the amount of liquid stored in the liquid tank 21 through the liquid volume window 241. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 12 to 14, the liquid volume window 241 is provided on the left side of the front door 24. Since Figs. 12 to 14 show the second liquid storage unit 20B as the liquid storage unit 20, in the case of the first liquid storage unit 20A, the liquid volume window 241 is provided on the right side of the front door 24.

The liquid storage unit 20 may have a configuration in which the front door 24 is omitted and the front shape of the liquid storage unit 20 is formed by the front wall 212.

As shown in Figures 13 and 14, a liquid agent removal section 25 and a foreign matter removal section 26 are provided in the liquid agent tank 21.

The liquid agent extraction section 25 has a liquid agent guide passage 251 for flowing the liquid agent in the liquid agent tank 21 to the supply mechanism 30. The liquid agent extraction section 25 is connected to the rear wall 215, and the liquid agent guide passage 251 penetrates the rear wall 215. The liquid agent guide passage 251 has a first portion 251a extending forward from the rear wall 215, and a second portion 251b descending from the tip of the first portion 251a toward the bottom wall 211. The first portion 251a is aligned horizontally, for example, when the liquid agent storage section 20 is set in the housing 40. The lower end of the second portion 251b is a liquid agent suction port. In this embodiment, the first portion 251a is provided with a check valve V5. The check valve V5 is a valve that prevents the liquid in the liquid storage unit 20 from leaking from the liquid guide flow path 251 when the liquid storage unit 20 is removed from the housing 40.

The foreign matter removal section 26 is a section that removes foreign matter so that the liquid agent guide passage 251 does not suck in the foreign matter. Examples of foreign matter include lint and human hair. In this embodiment, the foreign matter removal section 26 is attached to the bottom wall 211 so as to surround the liquid agent extraction section 25. An example of the foreign matter removal section 26 will be described based on the form shown in Figures 13 and 14.

The foreign matter removal section 26 has a flat filter section 261 and a cover member 262. The filter section 261 is a section that removes foreign matter. In other words, the filter section 261 filters the liquid. The cover member 262 is integrally provided with the filter section 261. The cover member 262 covers the liquid agent extraction section 25. The cover member 262 has a semi-cylindrical shape, for example, as shown in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14. The foreign matter removal section 26 is fitted into the liquid agent extraction section 25 so that the cover member 262 covers the liquid agent extraction section 25. The foreign matter removal section 26 is fixed to the liquid agent tank 21 by attaching the filter section 261 to the bottom wall 211. In this configuration, the liquid agent from which foreign matter has been removed by the filter section 261 flows into the liquid agent guide flow path 251 in the liquid agent extraction section 25 arranged inside the foreign matter removal section 26.

[Supply mechanism]
15 is a perspective view of the supply mechanism 30. The supply mechanism 30 has a water supply unit 31, a negative pressure generating unit 32, and a housing 40. In this embodiment, the water supply unit 31 and the negative pressure generating unit 32 are connected by a connecting pipe 33. The negative pressure generating unit 32 is screwed to the housing 40.

[Water Supply Section]
The water supply unit 31 is a part that supplies water from a water tap to the negative pressure generating unit 32 and the housing 40. Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the water supply unit 31. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line XVII-XVII in Fig. 16. In the water supply unit 31, walls and the like that form each flow path are made of, for example, resin, and examples of resins are the same as those in the liquid agent tank 21.

The water supply section 31 has a water supply pipe section 311, a first pipe section 312, and a second pipe section 313. In the embodiment shown in Figures 16 and 17, the water supply pipe section 311 extends in the X direction, and the first pipe section 312 and the second pipe section 313 extend in the Y direction. An internal space S1 is formed within the water supply section 31, connecting the water supply pipe section 311, the first pipe section 312, and the second pipe section 313. As a result, water flowing through the water supply pipe section 311 flows through the internal space S1 to the first pipe section 312 and the second pipe section 313. The internal space S1 also functions as a storage chamber that temporarily stores water.

Water supply valve V1a and water supply valve V1b are attached to the water supply section 31. This controls the flow of water flowing through the water supply section 31 into the first pipe section 312 and the second pipe section 313. Figure 17 shows a case where the water supply valve V1a and water supply valve V1b are open and the water flowing through the water supply section 31 flows into both the first pipe section 312 and the second pipe section 313. When water is not flowing into the first pipe section 312, the water supply valve V1a closes the connection end of the first pipe section 312 with the internal space S1. Similarly, when water is not flowing into the second pipe section 313, the water supply valve V1b closes the connection end of the second pipe section 313 with the internal space S1.

The water supply pipe section 311 and the internal space S1 form the water supply flow path 11. The end 311a of the water supply pipe section 311 is the water supply port 11a. The first pipe section 312 forms part of the first main flow path 12A, and the second pipe section 313 forms part of the second main flow path 12B.

As shown in FIG. 15, the water supply unit 31 is connected to the negative pressure generating unit 32 by a connecting pipe 33. Specifically, the first pipe 312 is connected to the third pipe 321 (described later) by the connecting pipe 33, and the second pipe 313 is connected to the fourth pipe 322 (described later) by the connecting pipe 33. The connecting pipe 33 connecting the first pipe 312 and the negative pressure generating unit constitutes a part of the first main flow path 12A, and the connecting pipe 33 connecting the second pipe 313 and the negative pressure generating unit constitutes a part of the second main flow path 12B. The connecting pipe 33 is, for example, a rubber pipe. By using the connecting pipe 33 as a rubber pipe, it is easy to assemble it to the upper plate 2b (see FIG. 1).

[Negative pressure generating unit]
The negative pressure generating unit 32 will be described with reference to Figures 18 to 21. Figure 18 is a perspective view of the negative pressure generating unit 32. Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XIX-XIX in Figure 18. Figure 20 is a cross-sectional perspective view taken along line XX-XX in Figure 18. Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXI-XXI in Figure 18.

The negative pressure generating unit 32 is a part that causes the water flowing in from the water supply unit 31 to flow into the housing 40, and generates a negative pressure for sucking the first liquid agent from the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and a negative pressure for sucking the second liquid agent from the second liquid agent storage unit 20B. The negative pressure generating unit 32 has a third tube section 321, a fourth tube section 322, and a fifth tube section 323.

The third pipe section 321 is aligned along the Y direction. The third pipe section 321 is connected to the first pipe section 312 (see FIG. 16) by a connecting pipe 33. As a result, water from the first pipe section 312 flows into the third pipe section 321. The third pipe section 321 constitutes a part of the first main flow path 12A.

As shown in FIG. 19, the third pipe section 321 is provided with a first venturi section 15A. The first venturi section 15A has a narrowing section 151 in which the flow path is partially narrowed, and a branch passage 152 that intersects and connects to the narrowing section 151. The flow path cross-sectional area of the narrowing section 151 is smaller than the flow path cross-sectional area upstream and downstream of the narrowing section 151 in the flow direction of the water in the third pipe section 321. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 19, the narrowing section 151 is formed by reducing the diameter of the third pipe section 321, but the method of forming the narrowing section 151 is not limited as long as the flow path cross-sectional area is small. In the first venturi section 15A, negative pressure is generated in the branch passage 152 by water flowing through the narrowing section 151. The speed of the water flowing through the narrowing section 151 may be adjusted so that the desired negative pressure is generated by the Venturi effect. A part of the third pipe section 321 in the above configuration functions as a Venturi tube. The entire third tube section 321 may be referred to as a Venturi tube.

The fourth pipe section 322 is aligned along the Y direction. The fourth pipe section 322 is connected to the second pipe section 313 (see FIG. 16) by a connecting pipe 33. As a result, water from the second pipe section 313 flows into the fourth pipe section 322. The fourth pipe section 322 constitutes a part of the second main flow path 12B. The fourth pipe section 322 is provided with a second venturi section 15B (not shown in FIG. 19). The second venturi section 15B also has a throttle section 151 and a branch passage 152, similar to the first venturi section 15A. Therefore, a part of the fourth pipe section 322 functions as a Venturi tube. The entire fourth pipe section 322 may be referred to as a Venturi tube.

The first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B are connected by a connecting section 324 through which the treatment liquid can flow. As shown in FIG. 18 and FIG. 21, the connecting section 324 has a first portion 324a that communicates with the branch passage 152 of the first venturi section 15A, a second portion 324b that communicates with the branch passage 152 of the second venturi section 15B, and a third portion 324c that is aligned in the X direction and connects the first portion 324a and the second portion 324b. The third portion 324c connects the upper ends of the first portion 324a and the second portion 324b. The connecting section 324 functions as a connecting flow path 16.

A flow meter 17 is attached to the third portion 324c to measure the flow rate of water flowing through the connecting portion 324. The flow meter 17 may be installed in the housing portion 325 provided on the third portion 324c, as shown in Figures 20 and 21.

As shown in Figures 19 and 20, an internal space S2 is formed in the negative pressure generating section 32. The internal space S2 is connected to the third pipe section 321 and the fourth pipe section 322. The internal space S2 is disposed below the third pipe section 321 and the fourth pipe section 322. The connection relationship between the third pipe section 321 and the internal space S2 will be described with reference to Figure 19.

As shown in FIG. 19, the third pipe section 321 and the internal space S2 are connected by a hole 321a formed in the third pipe section 321. The hole 321a is formed in the third pipe section 321 upstream of the first venturi section 15A. A relief valve V4a that controls the inflow of water from the hole 321a is disposed at the position of the hole 321a in the internal space S2. The relief valve V4a is disposed so that when the water supply valve V1a is open and water is flowing in the third pipe section 321, the relief valve V4a is also opened, and when the water supply valve V1a is closed and water is not flowing in the third pipe section 321, the relief valve V4a is also closed. When the relief valve V4a is open, the water flowing in the third pipe section 321 also flows into the internal space S2.

Although FIG. 19 illustrates the connection relationship between the third pipe section 321 and the internal space S2, the connection relationship between the fourth pipe section 322 and the internal space S2 is the same. That is, the fourth pipe section 322 and the internal space S2 are connected by a hole formed in the fourth pipe section 322. The hole is formed in the fourth pipe section 322 upstream of the second venturi section 15B. In the internal space S2, a relief valve V4b is disposed at the position of the hole formed in the fourth pipe section 322 that leads to the internal space S2. The relief valve 4b is disposed so that when the water supply valve V1b is open and water is flowing through the fourth pipe section 322, the relief valve 4b is also opened, and when the water supply valve V1b is closed and water is not flowing through the fourth pipe section 322, the relief valve 4b is also closed. When the relief valve 4b is open, the water flowing through the fourth pipe section 322 also flows into the internal space S2.

As shown in FIG. 18, the fifth pipe section 323 is disposed near the downstream end of the third pipe section 321 (or the fourth pipe section 322). In this embodiment, the fifth pipe section 323 is disposed between the third pipe section 321 and the fourth pipe section 322. As shown in FIG. 20, the fifth pipe section 323 is connected to the internal space S2. Therefore, the water that flows into the internal space S2 from the third pipe section 321 and the fourth pipe section 322 flows into the fifth pipe section 323. The internal space S2 and the fifth pipe section 323 form a part of the bypass flow path 18. The internal space S2 also functions as a storage chamber that temporarily stores the water that flows in from the third pipe section 321 and the fourth pipe section 322.

[housing]
An example of the housing 40 will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 to 30. FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the housing 40. FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the housing 40 with the top wall 45 removed. FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the bottom wall 41. FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining the positional relationship between the check valve V5 of the first liquid agent storage section 20A and the check valve V3a provided in the sixth pipe section 46 (first liquid agent extraction flow path) of the housing 40. FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the housing 40. FIG. 27 is a diagram for explaining the flow path formed on the upper surface (outer surface) 451 of the top wall 45. FIG. 28 is a diagram for explaining the flow path formed on the back surface (outer surface) 441 of the rear wall 44. FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the top wall 45 as viewed from the lower surface 452 side. FIG. 30 is a diagram for explaining the flow of the treatment liquid that has fallen from the top wall 45 toward the bottom wall 41.

The housing 40 accommodates the first liquid storage section 20A and the second liquid storage section 20B. The housing 40 is box-shaped with an open front. The housing 40 has a bottom wall 41, a left side wall 42, a right side wall 43, a rear wall 44, and a top wall 45. When one of the left side wall 42 and the right side wall 43 is referred to as the first side wall, the other can be referred to as the second side wall.

The top wall 45 faces the bottom wall 41 in the Z direction. The rear wall 44 connects the bottom wall 41 and the top wall 45. The left side wall 42 faces the right side wall 43 in the X direction. The left side wall 42 and the right side wall 43 connect the bottom wall 41, the rear wall 44, and the top wall 45. The bottom wall 41, the left side wall 42, the right side wall 43, the rear wall 44, and the top wall 45 form a storage space S3 that houses the first liquid agent storage section 20A and the second liquid agent storage section 20B.

The bottom wall 41 has a bottom wall body 411 and a support plate 412. The rear wall 44, the left side wall 42, and the right side wall 43 rise continuously from the bottom wall body 411 so as to surround the periphery of the bottom wall body 411 except for the front edge portion. As shown in Figures 22, 23, and 24, the support plate 412 is disposed on the front side of the bottom wall body 411. The support plate 412 supports the front portions of the first liquid agent storage section 20A and the second liquid agent storage section 20B. The support plate 412 is connected to the bottom wall body 411 at both ends of the support plate 412 in the X direction.

As shown in FIG. 24, an opening 413 is formed between the bottom wall body 411 and the portion between both ends of the support plate 412. The opening 413 is an inlet 13a for introducing the treatment liquid into the inner tank 5b. The lower part of the support plate 412 may be inclined toward the rear. In this case, the treatment liquid is introduced toward the rear from the opening 413. In the region where the opening 413 is formed, it may be supported by a plurality of connecting pieces 414 that are discretely arranged in the X direction.

The bottom wall body 411 slopes downward from the rear wall 44 toward the front so that the treatment liquid flows from the rear wall 44 toward the opening 413. In this embodiment, the bottom wall body 411 slopes downward from the rear wall 44 toward the front in a cascade pattern in three stages.

Specifically, the bottom wall body 411 has a first step 411a connected to the rear wall 44, a second step 411b lowered from the first step 411a, and a third step 411c lowered further from the second step 411b. The connection area between the second step 411b and the third step 411c faces a corner formed by the rear wall 215 and bottom wall 211 of the liquid agent tank 21, as shown in FIG. 24. The third step 411c is located below the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent storage unit 20B when the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent storage unit 20B are accommodated in the housing 40.

As shown in FIG. 23, the bottom wall body 411 may be formed with two flow path defining portions 415 that define the area through which the treatment liquid flows. One of the two flow path defining portions 415 is formed closer to the left side wall 42, and the other is formed closer to the right side wall 43. In one example, the flow path defining portion 415 is formed to direct the treatment liquid toward the center of the opening 413. This prevents the treatment liquid from leaking out from anywhere other than the opening 413.

A platform 416 that supports the liquid storage unit 20 may be formed on both edges of the bottom wall body 411 in the Y direction. In one example, the platform 416 also functions as a guide when storing the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B in the housing 40.

22 and 23, the left side wall 42 may be formed with a guide portion 421 that guides the first liquid storage unit 20A when the first liquid storage unit 20A is accommodated in the housing 40. The guide portion 421 also functions as a support portion that supports the first liquid storage unit 20A.

The right side wall 43 may be formed with a guide portion 431 that guides the second liquid agent storage portion 20B when the second liquid agent storage portion 20B is stored in the housing 40. The guide portion 431 also functions as a support portion that supports the second liquid agent storage portion 20B. FIG. 23 shows a form in which the guide portion 421 and the guide portion 431 are steps formed on the left side wall 42 and the right side wall 43.

As shown in FIG. 23, a sixth tube 46 and a seventh tube 47 are arranged on the rear wall 44. The sixth tube 46 and the seventh tube 47 are connected to the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B when the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B are attached to the housing 40. The sixth tube 46 and the seventh tube 47 are aligned along the X direction. The front end 461 of the sixth tube 46 and the front end 471 of the seventh tube 47 are located within the housing 40.

The sixth pipe section 46 functions as the first liquid agent extraction flow path 14A. A check valve V3a is arranged in the sixth pipe section 46. The seventh pipe section 47 has a check valve V3b arranged along the X direction, which functions as the second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B. The seventh pipe section 47 has a check valve V3b arranged along the X direction. The check valve V3a is arranged along the X direction. The check valves V3a and V3b may be spring-type valves having a valve body and a spring (elastic member).

When the first liquid storage unit 20A is installed in the housing 40, the liquid guide flow path 251 of the first liquid storage unit 20A is connected to the sixth tube section 46. A rod-shaped member 48 is attached to the sixth tube section 46. When the liquid storage unit 20 is installed in the housing 40, the rod-shaped member 48 pushes the check valve V5 (see Figures 14 and 24) in the first portion 251a of the liquid guide flow path 251 forward. This opens the check valve V5, and when the first liquid storage unit 20A is installed in the housing 40, a state is realized in which the first liquid can flow from the first liquid storage unit 20A toward the sixth tube section 46.

When the second liquid storage unit 20B is installed in the housing 40, the liquid guide flow path 251 of the second liquid storage unit 20B is connected to the seventh tube section 47. A rod-shaped member 48 is attached to the seventh tube section 47. When the second liquid storage unit 20B is installed in the housing 40, the rod-shaped member 48 pushes the check valve V5 forward. This opens the check valve V5, and when the second liquid storage unit 20B is installed in the housing 40, a state is achieved in which the second liquid can flow from the second liquid storage unit 20B toward the seventh tube section 47.

The positional relationship between the check valve V5 in the first liquid storage section 20A and the check valve V3a in the sixth tube section 46 will be explained using Figure 25. In Figure 25, components near the check valves V3a and V5 are shown in schematic form to explain the positional relationship between the check valves V5 and V3a.

In this embodiment, the check valve V3a and the check valve V5 are each arranged along the X direction. Therefore, the check valve V3a and the check valve V5 are arranged along one direction. When the washing machine 1 is installed, the X direction corresponds to the horizontal direction. Therefore, the check valve V3a and the check valve V5 are arranged along the horizontal direction.

The relative positions of the check valve V5 in the first liquid storage section 20A and the check valve V3a in the sixth tube section 46 have been explained using Figure 25, but the relative positions of the check valve V5 in the second liquid storage section 20B and the check valve V3b in the seventh tube section 47 are also similar. In other words, the check valve V3b and the corresponding check valve V5 are arranged in one direction.

The housing 40 is formed with a flow path for flowing the treatment liquid from the negative pressure generating unit 32, the first liquid storage unit 20A, and the second liquid storage unit 20B to the opening 413. This flow path will be described.

22 and 26, an upper surface flow path section 50 is disposed on the top wall 45. The upper surface flow path section 50 is provided on a part of the upper surface 451 of the top wall 45. The upper surface flow path section 50 is box-shaped. The upper surface flow path section 50 has a peripheral wall 51 that surrounds a predetermined area of the upper surface 451 and a lid 52 attached to the peripheral wall 51. As shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the inside of the upper surface flow path section 50 is partitioned by a partition wall 53. As a result, a first upper surface flow path (first storage area) 501, a second upper surface flow path 502, a third upper surface flow path 503, and a fourth upper surface flow path 504 are formed in the upper surface flow path section 50.

The first upper surface flow path 501 corresponds to a first storage area that temporarily stores the first liquid agent when the first liquid agent is extracted from the first liquid agent storage section 20A in the first liquid agent extraction process described with reference to FIG. 6. Therefore, the upper surface flow path section 50 functions as a first liquid agent storage section.

26, a rear flow passage section 60 is disposed on the rear wall 44. The rear flow passage section 60 is provided on a part of the rear surface 441 of the rear wall 44. The rear flow passage section 60 is box-shaped. The rear flow passage section 60 has a peripheral wall 61 that surrounds a predetermined area of the rear surface 441 and a lid 62 attached to the peripheral wall 61. As shown in FIG. 26 and FIG. 28, the inside of the rear flow passage section 60 is divided by a partition wall 63 to form a first rear flow passage 601 and a second rear flow passage (second storage area) 602.

The second rear flow passage 602 corresponds to a second storage area that temporarily stores the second liquid when the second liquid is extracted from the second liquid storage section 20B in the second liquid extraction process described with reference to FIG. 8. Therefore, the rear flow passage section 60 functions as a second liquid storage section.

As shown in FIG. 23, a check valve housing 70 is disposed near the left side wall 42 in the housing 40. The check valve housing 70 has a first valve housing 71 and a second valve housing 72 along the Z direction. The first valve housing 71 is a hollow body having an upper opening, and a check valve V2a is disposed therein. The check valve V2a is disposed so that the treatment liquid can flow from the bottom to the top of the first valve housing 71. The second valve housing 72 is a hollow body having an upper opening, and a check valve V2b is disposed therein. The check valve V2b is disposed so that the treatment liquid can flow from the bottom to the top of the second valve housing 72. The check valves V2a and V2b may be, for example, float-type check valves.

The check valve housing 70 may have a connecting portion 73 that connects the first valve housing 71 and the second valve housing 72. The connecting portion 73 connects the first valve housing 71 and the second valve housing 72 above the portion where the check valves V2a and V2b are arranged. The lower end of the connecting portion 73 is closed. The upper end of the connecting portion 73 is open.

The first upper surface flow path 501 connects the third pipe section 321 (see FIG. 18) of the negative pressure generating section 32 to the first rear surface flow path 601. The first rear surface flow path 601 connects the first upper surface flow path 501, the sixth pipe section 46, and the first valve housing section 71. The first upper surface flow path 501, the first rear surface flow path 601, and the first valve housing section 71 form part of the first main flow path 12A. An example of the connection relationship between the third pipe section 321, the first upper surface flow path 501, the first rear surface flow path 601, the sixth pipe section 46, and the first valve housing section 71 will be described.

The first upper surface flow path 501 is connected to the third pipe section 321 by a connecting pipe 54a (see Figures 26, 27, and 29). The connecting pipe 54a is provided near the right edge of the top wall 45. The connecting pipe 54a is connected to the third pipe section 321 (see Figure 18) with the negative pressure generating unit 32 fixed to the housing 40. As shown in Figure 27, a hole 501a connected to the connecting pipe 54a is formed in the first upper surface flow path 501 in the top wall 45. With the above configuration, the first upper surface flow path 501 is in communication with the third pipe section 321.

The first upper surface flow path 501 and the first rear surface flow path 601 are connected by a guide tube 55a (see FIG. 29) formed in the top wall 45 and a guide tube 64a (see FIG. 28) formed in the rear wall 44. The guide tube 55a extends downward from a hole 501b formed in the first upper surface flow path 501 in the top wall 45. As shown in FIG. 27, the hole 501b is formed near the rear edge of the top wall 45. As shown in FIG. 28, the guide tube 64a is aligned along the Z direction. The upper part of the guide tube 64a is connected to the guide tube 55a, and the lower part of the guide tube 64a is connected to the first rear surface flow path 601. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 28, the lower part of the guide tube 64a is located above the rear end 462 of the sixth tube part 46 protruding rearward from the rear surface 441 of the rear wall 44. In the first rear flow passage 601, a hole 601a is formed at the lower position of the guide tube 64a. This allows the first rear flow passage 601 to communicate with the guide tube 64a. With the above configuration, the first upper surface flow passage 501 and the first rear flow passage 601 are in communication with each other. Therefore, in this case, the guide tube 55a and the guide tube 64a also constitute a part of the first main flow passage 12A.

The rear end 462 of the sixth tube section 46 protrudes from the rear surface 441 into the first rear flow passage 601. At least one notch may be formed in the rear end 462 so that the first rear flow passage 601 and the sixth tube section 46 are in communication with each other. With this configuration, the sixth tube section 46 is in communication with the first rear flow passage 601. Here, an example is shown in which the rear end 462 of the sixth tube section 46 protrudes rearward from the rear surface 442, but a hole connected to the rear end 462 may be formed in the rear wall 44.

A hole 601b is formed in the rear wall 44 at a position corresponding to the lower part of the first valve housing 71. This hole 601b connects the first rear flow passage 601 and the first valve housing 71.

The second upper surface flow path 502 connects the seventh pipe section 47 and the second rear surface flow path 602. The second rear surface flow path 602 connects the second upper surface flow path 502, the seventh pipe section 47, and the second valve housing section 72. The second upper surface flow path 502, the second rear surface flow path 602, and the second valve housing section 72 form part of the second main flow path 12B.

The second upper surface flow path 502 is connected to the fourth pipe section 322 (see FIG. 18) by a connecting pipe 54b (see FIGS. 26, 27, and 28). The connecting pipe 54b is provided near the right edge of the top wall 45. The connecting pipe 54b is disposed closer to the rear edge of the top wall 45 than the connecting pipe 54a. With the negative pressure generating unit 32 fixed to the housing 40, the connecting pipe 54b is connected to the fourth pipe section 322. A hole 502b connected to the connecting pipe 54b is formed in the second upper surface flow path 502 in the top wall 45. With the above configuration, the second upper surface flow path 502 is in communication with the fourth pipe section 322.

The second upper surface flow path 502 and the second rear surface flow path 602 are connected by a guide tube 55b (see FIG. 29) formed in the top wall 45 and a guide tube 64b (see FIG. 23 and FIG. 28) formed in the rear wall 44. The guide tube 55b extends downward from a hole 502b (see FIG. 27) formed in the second upper surface flow path 502 in the top wall 45. The hole 502b is formed in the top wall 45 near a corner formed by the rear edge and the right edge. The guide tube 64b has an opening connected to the guide tube 55b, and the part opposite the opening is closed. Therefore, the guide tube 64b has a bottomed cylindrical shape. A hole 602b (see FIG. 28) is formed in the rear wall 44 near the bottom of the guide tube 64b. The hole 602b connects the guide tube 64b and the second rear surface flow path 602. With the above configuration, the second upper surface flow path 502 and the second rear surface flow path 602 are connected.

28, the rear end 472 of the seventh pipe section 47 protrudes from the rear surface 442 into the second rear flow passage 602. At least one notch may be formed in the rear end 472 so that the second rear flow passage 602 and the seventh pipe section 47 are in communication with each other. With this configuration, the seventh pipe section 47 is in communication with the second rear flow passage 602. Here, an example is shown in which the rear end 472 protrudes rearward from the rear surface 442, but a hole connected to the rear end 472 may be formed in the rear wall 44.

A hole 602b is formed in the rear wall 44 at a position corresponding to the lower part of the second valve housing 72. This hole 602b connects the second rear flow passage 602 and the second valve housing 72.

The third upper surface flow path 503 connects the fifth pipe section 323 (see FIG. 18) to the storage space S3 in the housing 40. The third upper surface flow path 503 constitutes part of the bypass flow path 18.

The third upper surface flow path 503 is connected to the fifth pipe section 323 by a connecting pipe 54c (see Figures 26, 27, and 29). The connecting pipe 54c is provided near the right edge of the top wall 45. The connecting pipe 54c is disposed between the connecting pipes 54a and 54b. The connecting pipe 54c is connected to the fifth pipe section 323 with the negative pressure generating unit 32 fixed to the housing 40. A hole 503a (see Figure 27) connected to the connecting pipe 54c is formed in the third upper surface flow path 503 in the top wall 45. With the above configuration, the third upper surface flow path 503 is in communication with the fifth pipe section 323.

27, at least one hole 503b is formed in the third upper surface flow path 503 near the rear edge of the top wall 45. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 27, three holes 503b are formed in the top wall 45. The holes 503b are located on the first step 411a of the bottom wall 41. The holes 503b connect the third upper surface flow path 503 to the storage space S3 in the housing 40, so that the treatment liquid flowing through the third upper surface flow path 503 flows into the housing 40 from the holes 503b. A guide tube 55c (see FIG. 29) may be formed at the bottom of the holes 503b. This makes it easier for the treatment liquid to fall directly downward from the holes 503b.

The fourth upper surface flow path 504 is formed along the rear edge of the top wall 45. The fourth upper surface flow path 504 connects the check valve accommodating section 70 to the storage space S3 in the housing 40. The fourth upper surface flow path 504 constitutes part of the input flow path 13 (the second part of the input flow path 13).

27, three holes 504a1, 504a2, 504a3 and hole 504b are formed in the fourth upper surface flow path 504 in the top wall 45. The holes 504a1, 504a2, 504a3 are connected to the upper openings of the first valve accommodating section 71, the connecting section 73, and the second valve accommodating section 72. This allows the fourth upper surface flow path 504 to communicate with the check valve accommodating section 70. A guide tube 55d (see FIG. 29) may be formed in the lower part of the holes 504a1, 504a2, 504a3. In this case, the guide tube 55d is connected to the upper openings of the first valve housing portion 71, the connecting portion 73, and the second valve housing portion 72, so that the holes 504a1, 504a2, and 504a3 communicate with the first valve housing portion 71, the connecting portion 73, and the second valve housing portion 72. The hole 504b penetrates the ceiling wall 45. Therefore, the fourth upper surface flow path 504 communicates with the storage space S3 through the hole 504b, so that the treatment liquid flowing through the fourth upper surface flow path 504 falls into the housing 40 from the hole 504b. A guide tube 56 (see FIG. 29) may be formed at the bottom of the hole 504b. This makes it easier for the treatment liquid to fall directly downward from the hole 504b.

As described above, the treatment liquid flows into the housing 40 through the hole 503b formed in the third upper surface flow path 503 and the hole 504b formed in the fourth upper surface flow path 504. The treatment liquid thus flowing in flows along the bottom wall 41 (specifically, the bottom wall main body 411) of the housing 40 as shown by the arrow in FIG. 30, and is then poured into the inner tank 5b through the opening 413.

When the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B are accommodated in the housing 40, a space S3a is formed between the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B and the rear wall 44. The treatment liquid falls within the space S3a from the top wall 45 toward the bottom wall 41. Thus, the space S3a constitutes a part of the input flow path 13. Specifically, the space S3a (particularly the area below the holes 503b and 504b) functions as a fall area in the input flow path 13 where the treatment liquid falls.

30, the lower surface 211a of the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the lower surface 211a of the second liquid agent storage unit 20B face the bottom wall 41, and a space S3b is generated between the lower surface 211a and the bottom wall 41. Therefore, the treatment liquid that flows into the storage space S3 from the top wall 45 flows through the space S3b toward the opening 413. Therefore, the space S3b between the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent storage unit 20B and the rear wall 44 and bottom wall 41 of the housing 40 functions as a part (first part) of the input flow path of the treatment liquid. The lower surface 211a is the outer surface of the bottom wall 211 of the liquid agent tank 21.

As shown in FIG. 23, the first flow straightening portion 81 and the second flow straightening portion 82 are disposed on the first step portion 411a of the bottom wall main body 411. The first flow straightening portion 81 is disposed below the hole portion 504b, and the second flow straightening portion 82 is disposed below the hole portion 503b.

The first and second straightening sections 81 and 82 are intended to prevent the treatment liquid from foaming due to the treatment liquid colliding with the first step 411a and jumping up as it falls.

The first straightening section 81 has a plurality of straightening plates 811. The plurality of straightening plates 811 are arranged in parallel in the Y direction. The second straightening section 82 has a plurality of straightening plates 821. The plurality of straightening plates 821 are arranged in parallel in the Y direction. The distance between two adjacent straightening plates 811 in the plurality of straightening plates 811 is set to a distance that can suppress the splashing of the fallen processing liquid. Similarly, the distance between two adjacent straightening plates 821 in the plurality of straightening plates 821 is set to a distance that can suppress the splashing of the fallen processing liquid. Each straightening plate 811 and each straightening plate 821 are integrally formed with the bottom wall 41 and the rear wall 44. Each straightening plate 811 and each straightening plate 821 also function as a rib. An example of the material of each straightening plate 811 and each straightening plate 821 is resin.

The flows of water, the first liquid agent, and the second liquid agent in the treatment liquid supply device 10 described using Figures 10 to 30 will be described in relation to each process described using Figures 5 to 8.

(Water supply process)
In the water supply step, the water supply valves V1a and V1b are opened, whereby water flows from the water supply pipe 311 to both the first pipe 312 and the second pipe 313.

The first pipe section 312 is connected to the third pipe section 321, and the second pipe section 313 is connected to the fourth pipe section 322. Therefore, water flowing from the water supply pipe section 311 into the first pipe section 312 and the second pipe section 313 flows through the third pipe section 321 and the fourth pipe section 322.

The third pipe section 321 is connected to the first upper surface flow path 501 by the connecting pipe 54a and the hole section 501a (see FIG. 27). Therefore, the water that flows into the third pipe section 321 flows into the first upper surface flow path 501.

The fourth pipe section 322 is connected to the second upper surface flow path 502 via the connecting pipe 54b and the hole section 502a (see FIG. 27). Therefore, water that flows into the fourth pipe section 322 flows into the second upper surface flow path 502.

When water flows through the third pipe section 321 and the fourth pipe section 322, the relief valves V4a and V4b are open. Therefore, some of the water flowing through the third pipe section 321 flows into the fifth pipe section 323 through the internal space S1. Similarly, some of the water flowing through the fourth pipe section 322 flows into the fifth pipe section 323 through the internal space S1. The fifth pipe section 323 is connected to the third upper surface flow path 503 by the connecting pipe 54c and the hole section 503a (see FIG. 27). Therefore, the water that flows into the fifth pipe section 323 flows into the third upper surface flow path 503.

Water that flows into the first upper surface flow path 501 from the third pipe section 321 flows from hole 501a toward hole 501b. Water that flows into hole 501b flows into the first rear surface flow path 601 through hole 501b. Water that flows into the first rear surface flow path 601 flows toward hole 601b. Hole 601b is connected to the first valve housing section 71. Therefore, water that flows into hole 601b flows into the first valve housing section 71.

When water is flowing through both the third tube section 321 and the fourth tube section 322, no negative pressure is generated to extract the first liquid from the first liquid storage section 20A. Therefore, the check valve V3a (see FIG. 23) in the sixth tube section 46 is closed. Therefore, even if the water that has flowed from the first upper flow path 501 to the first rear flow path 601 flows toward the hole 601b as described above, the water is prevented from flowing into the first liquid storage section 20A through the sixth tube section 46.

Water that flows into the second upper surface flow path 502 from the fourth pipe section 322 flows from hole 502a toward hole 502b. Water that flows into hole 502b flows into the second rear surface flow path 602 through hole 502b. Water that flows into the second rear surface flow path 602 flows toward hole 602b. Hole 602b is connected to the second valve housing section 72. Therefore, water that flows into hole 602b flows into the second valve housing section 72.

When water is flowing through both the third pipe section 321 and the fourth pipe section 322, no negative pressure is generated to extract the second liquid from the second liquid storage section 20B. Therefore, the check valve V3b (see FIG. 23) in the seventh pipe section 47 is closed. Therefore, even if the water that has flowed from the second upper surface flow path 502 into the second rear surface flow path 602 flows toward the hole 602b as described above, the water is prevented from flowing into the second liquid storage section 20B through the seventh pipe section 47.

The water that flows from the fifth pipe section 323 into the third upper surface flow path 503 flows from hole 503a toward hole 503b, and then flows from hole 503b into the storage space S3.

When water flows into the first valve housing 71 from the first rear flow passage 601, the check valve V2a opens due to water pressure. As a result, water flows from the bottom to the top of the first valve housing 71, and water flows into the fourth upper surface flow passage 504 through the upper opening and hole 504a1 of the first valve housing 71. Similarly, when water flows into the second valve housing 72 from the second rear flow passage 602, the check valve V2b opens due to water pressure. As a result, water flows from the bottom to the top of the second valve housing 72, and water flows into the fourth upper surface flow passage 504 through the upper opening and hole 504a2 of the second valve housing 72. In this embodiment, the first valve housing 71 and the second valve housing 72 are connected by the connecting portion 73. Therefore, when water flows from the bottom to the top in the first valve housing 71 and the second valve housing 72, the water also flows into the connecting portion 73. Water in the connecting portion 73 flows into the fourth upper surface flow path 504 through the holes 504a1, 504a2, and 504a3.

The water that flows into the fourth upper surface flow path 504 as described above flows into the storage space S3 through the hole 504b.

The water that flows into the storage space S3 from the hole 503b and the water that flows into the storage space S3 from the hole 504b flows toward the opening 413 using the space S3a between the bottom wall body 411 and the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B as a flow path. As a result, the water is poured into the inner tank 5b from the opening 413.

(Filling process)
In the filling step, the water supply valves V1a and V1b are closed, so that the flow paths through which water has flowed in the water supply step are maintained in a state filled with water.

(First liquid agent removal step)
In the first liquid agent extraction process, as described with reference to Fig. 6, only the water supply valve V1b is open. Therefore, the water that has flowed into the water supply pipe 311 flows only into the second pipe 313 and then into the fourth pipe 322. The water that has flowed into the fourth pipe 322 flows to the opening 413 via the same route as in the water supply process, and is introduced into the inner tank 5b.

Because water flows only from the water supply pipe section 311 to the fourth pipe section 322, the negative pressure in the second venturi section 15B in the fourth pipe section 322 causes the water in the connecting section 324 to flow toward the fourth pipe section 322, and then from the fourth pipe section 322 to the second upper surface flow path 502. Because the above-mentioned water flow occurs in the connecting section 324, the water in the third pipe section 321, the first upper surface flow path 501, and the first back surface flow path 601 that constitute the first main flow path 12A also flows into the fourth pipe section 322 through the connecting section 324.

In the first rear flow path 601, a water flow is generated toward the first upper flow path 501, so the check valve V3a opens. This causes the first liquid agent in the first liquid agent storage section 20A to flow into the first rear flow path 601 through the sixth tube section 46. The first liquid agent that has flowed into the first rear flow path 601 flows into the first upper flow path 501. This causes the first upper flow path 501 to be filled with the first liquid agent.

(First liquid agent injection step and cleaning step)
As explained with reference to Fig. 7, in the first liquid supply step and the cleaning step, both water supply valves V1a and V1b are opened. This allows water to flow in the same manner as in the water supply step, so that the first liquid taken out in the first liquid removal step is put into the inner tank 5b through the opening 413 together with water.

The first liquid agent that is added in the first liquid agent addition process is the first liquid agent that was filled in the first upper surface flow path 501 in the first liquid agent removal process. Therefore, the flow path of the first liquid agent from the sixth tube section 46 toward the first venturi section 15A has a length that allows the first liquid agent to be added to be sufficiently removed. For example, as shown in the figure, by forming the first upper surface flow path 501 to be folded back multiple times, it is possible to sufficiently remove the first liquid agent to be added.

(Second liquid agent removal process)
In the second liquid agent extraction process, as described with reference to Fig. 8, only the water supply valve V1a is open. Therefore, the water that has flowed into the water supply pipe 311 flows only into the first pipe 312 and then into the third pipe 321. The water that has flowed into the third pipe 321 flows to the opening 413 via the same route as in the water supply process, and is introduced into the inner tank 5b.

Because water flows only from the water supply pipe section 311 to the third pipe section 321, the negative pressure in the first venturi section 15A in the third pipe section 321 causes the water in the connecting section 324 to flow toward the third pipe section 321 and from the third pipe section 321 to the first upper surface flow path 501. Because the above-mentioned water flow occurs within the connecting section 324, the water in the fourth pipe section 322, the second upper surface flow path 502, and the second back surface flow path 602, which constitute the second main flow path 12B, also flows into the third pipe section 321 through the connecting section 324.

In the second rear flow passage 602, a water flow toward the second upper flow passage 502 occurs, so the check valve V3b opens. This causes the second liquid in the second liquid storage section 20B to flow into the second rear flow passage 602 through the seventh tube section 47. This fills the second rear flow passage 602 with the second liquid.

(Second liquid injection step and cleaning step)
As explained with reference to Fig. 9, in the second liquid supply step and the cleaning step, both water supply valves V1a and V1b are opened. This allows water to flow in the same manner as in the water supply step, so that the second liquid taken out in the second liquid removal step is put into the inner tank 5b through the opening 413 together with water.

The second liquid agent that is extracted in the second liquid agent injection process is the second liquid agent that was stored in the second rear flow channel 602 in the second liquid agent extraction process. Therefore, the second rear flow channel 602 has a length that is sufficient to extract the second liquid agent to be injected. For example, as shown in FIG. 28, by forming the second rear flow channel 602 to be folded multiple times, the amount of the second liquid agent to be injected can be secured.

In the first liquid agent extraction process described with reference to FIG. 6, the first liquid agent is extracted from the first liquid agent storage section 20A into the first main flow path 12A. In the second liquid agent extraction process described with reference to FIG. 8, the second liquid agent is extracted from the second liquid agent storage section 20B into the second main flow path 12B. Therefore, the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B need to be long enough to extract the first liquid agent and the second liquid agent required for washing and temporarily store them inside.

In this embodiment, the first upper surface flow path 501 formed on the upper surface 451 of the top wall 45 is a first storage area that temporarily stores the first liquid agent taken out from the first liquid agent storage unit 20A, and the second rear surface flow path 602 formed on the rear surface 441 of the rear wall 44 is a second storage area that temporarily stores the second liquid agent taken out from the second liquid agent storage unit 20B. That is, in the processing liquid input device 10 of this embodiment, the first storage area for the taken out first liquid agent and the second storage area for the taken out second liquid agent are arranged on two different surfaces among the multiple surfaces of the housing 40. In one example of this embodiment, the angle between the surface on which the first storage area is located and the surface on which the second storage area is located is 90°.

Therefore, the size of the housing 40 can be made smaller than when the first storage area and the second storage area are arranged together on the same surface (e.g., the upper surface 451 of the ceiling wall 45). As a result, a small-sized processing liquid injection device 10 can be realized.

The rear surface 441 is usually considered to be dead space. Therefore, in a configuration in which one of the first storage area and the second storage area is disposed on the rear surface 441, the dead space can be effectively utilized to reduce the size of the housing 40.

When the first upper surface flow path (first storage area) 501 and the second rear surface flow path (second storage area) 602 are each bent at least once, the lengths of the first upper surface flow path 501 and the second rear surface flow path 602 can be ensured while effectively utilizing the surfaces on which the first upper surface flow path 501 and the second rear surface flow path 602 are formed. As a result, it is easy to realize a compact treatment liquid introduction device 10.

The treatment liquid introduction device 10 is equipped with a bypass flow path 18. This makes it possible to suppress abnormal noise in the first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B. This point will be explained in comparison with a case where the bypass flow path 18 is not provided.

In the inner tub 5b, a certain amount of water (e.g., 15 liters) is poured into the inner tub 5b to wash clothes, etc. The water poured into the inner tub 5b flows through the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B. The first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B are arranged in the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B to extract the liquid agent. The first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B have narrowed flow paths. In this case, if a large amount of water flows through the first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B to pour the certain amount of water into the inner tub 5b, abnormal noise is generated in the first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B. In particular, the first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B generate a negative pressure capable of sucking in the liquid agent in order to extract the liquid agent, and from the viewpoint of shortening the time it takes for water to accumulate in the inner tank 5b, increasing the amount of water flowing through the first venturi section 15A and the second venturi section 15B tends to increase the amount of abnormal noise.

In response to this, the treatment liquid introduction device 10 is provided with a bypass flow path 18. The bypass flow path 18 branches off from the upstream portion of the first venturi portion 15A and the second venturi portion 15B in the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B and is connected to the introduction flow path 13. Therefore, a part of the water flowing through the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B bypasses the first venturi portion 15A and the second venturi portion 15B (in other words, the negative pressure generating unit U2 shown in FIG. 4) and flows into the introduction flow path 13, and is then introduced into the inner tank 5b. In this case, the amount of water flowing through the first venturi portion 15A and the second venturi portion 15B can be reduced while ensuring the amount of water to be introduced into the inner tank 5b. Since the amount of water flowing through the first venturi portion 15A and the second venturi portion 15B can be reduced, the generation of abnormal noise in the first venturi portion 15A and the second venturi portion 15B can be suppressed.

The treatment liquid injection device 10 can increase the amount of water flowing from the water supply passage 11 to the first main passage 12A and the second main passage 12B while suppressing the generation of abnormal noise. Therefore, the time required to store water in the inner tub 5b can be shortened, and the time required for washing can be shortened.

In the embodiment equipped with the above-mentioned water supply valves V1a and V1b, the flow of water to the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B can be controlled by controlling the water supply valves V1a and V1b. As a result, the generation of negative pressure in the first venturi portion 15A and the second venturi portion 15B can be controlled, so that it is possible to switch between the case where the first liquid agent is dispensed and the case where the second liquid agent is dispensed, as shown in the example.

When the relief valves V4a and V4b are provided in the bypass flow path 18, the flow of water from the first main flow path 12A and the second main flow path 12B to the bypass flow path 18 can be controlled.

In a configuration in which a check valve V3a is provided in the first liquid agent extraction flow path 14A and a check valve V3b is provided in the second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B, the first liquid agent can be extracted from the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent can be extracted from the second liquid agent storage unit 20B while preventing water from flowing from the first liquid agent extraction flow path 14A into the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and water from the second liquid agent extraction flow path 14B into the second liquid agent storage unit 20B.

In a configuration that includes a flow path switching unit U1, i.e., a configuration that includes check valves V2a and V2b, it is possible to switch between flowing the first liquid agent in the first main flow path 12A to the input flow path 13 and flowing the second liquid agent in the second main flow path 12B to the input flow path 13. As a result, it is possible to control the input of the first liquid agent and the input of the second liquid agent to the inner tank 5b.

In one embodiment of the treatment liquid supplying device 10, the lower surfaces 211a of the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent storage unit 20B face the bottom wall main body 411. In one example of the treatment liquid supplying device 10, the gap between the lower surfaces 211a of the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent storage unit 20B and the bottom wall 41 functions as a part (first part) of the supply flow path 13. Therefore, even if the first liquid agent remaining between the check valve V5 in the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the check valve V3a in the sixth tube portion 46 drips onto the bottom wall 41 when the first liquid agent storage unit 20A is removed from the housing 40, the first liquid agent adhering to the bottom wall 41 is washed away when water is supplied to the inner tank 5b. Similarly, when removing the second liquid storage unit 20B from the housing 40, even if the second liquid remaining between the check valve V5 in the second liquid storage unit 20B and the check valve V3b in the seventh pipe unit 47 drips onto the bottom wall 41, the second liquid adhering to the bottom wall 41 is washed away when water is poured into the inner tank 5b. This prevents the first and second liquids from remaining on the bottom wall 41 and solidifying. This makes it easy to maintain the housing 40.

When either the first or second liquid agent is a detergent, if the detergent remains attached to the bottom wall 41 of the housing 40, it can cause the growth of bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors. In a configuration in which the gap between the bottom wall 41 and the undersides of the first liquid agent storage section 20A and the second liquid agent storage section 20B functions as part (first part) of the input flow path 13, the detergent that has adhered to the bottom wall 41 is washed away with each wash. This makes it possible to suppress the growth of bacteria, mold, and unpleasant odors.

In the treatment liquid input device 10 according to one embodiment, the fourth upper surface flow path 504 in the top wall 45 is a part (second part) of the input flow path 13, and the bottom wall 41 is also a part (first part) of the input flow path 13 because the treatment liquid flows on it. The treatment liquid falls from the fourth upper surface flow path 504 on the top wall 45 toward the bottom wall 41. In one embodiment, when the treatment liquid flows on the bottom wall 41, the space between the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent storage unit 20B and the bottom wall 41 functions as the input flow path 13 through which the treatment liquid flows. When the bottom wall 41 is inclined downward toward the front in order to cause the treatment liquid to flow toward the opening 413, as shown in FIG. 30, the input flow path 13 is narrowed once between the lower rear corners of the first liquid agent storage unit 20A and the second liquid agent storage unit 20B and the bottom wall main body 411. Therefore, the treatment liquid that falls as described above flows toward the opening 413 once through an area with a small flow path cross-sectional area.

When the first straightening section 81 is provided at the point where the treatment liquid falls, the treatment liquid falls between the multiple straightening plates 811 that constitute the first straightening section 81. In this case, splashing caused by the treatment liquid colliding with the bottom wall 41 is suppressed, so the treatment liquid is less likely to foam after falling. Therefore, even if there is a place on the downstream side where the flow path is narrowed, the treatment liquid is less likely to stagnate. The falling treatment liquid is straightened by the multiple straightening plates 811. In this respect, it is possible to suppress the stagnation of the treatment liquid caused by the place on the downstream side where the flow path is narrowed. As a result, it is possible to prevent problems such as treatment liquid leakage from unexpected places in the treatment liquid input device 10.

In particular, when the treatment liquid falls from the top wall 45 to the bottom wall 41 as described above, such falling occurs in the storage space S3. The first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B are stored in the storage space S3. By suppressing the retention of the treatment liquid in the storage space S3, it is possible to prevent, for example, the treatment liquid (e.g., water) from mixing into the first liquid storage unit 20A and the second liquid storage unit 20B.

As shown in FIG. 25, in a configuration in which the check valve V5 in the first liquid storage section 20A and the check valve V3a arranged in the sixth pipe section 46 (first liquid extraction flow path 14A) are arranged along the same direction, the distance between the check valve V5 and the check valve V3a can be made shorter than in a case in which the arrangement directions of the check valve V5 and the check valve V3a intersect. An example of a case in which the arrangement directions of the check valve V5 and the check valve V3a intersect is when the check valve V5 is arranged along the X direction, while the check valve V3a is arranged along the Z direction.

When the first liquid is removed from the first liquid storage unit 20A, the first liquid remains in the area between the check valve V5 and the check valve V3a. If the distance between the check valve V5 and the check valve V3a is short, the amount of the first liquid remaining is also small. Therefore, for example, even if the first liquid drips onto the bottom wall 41 when the first liquid storage unit 20A is removed from the housing 40, the amount of the first liquid adhering to the bottom wall 41 can be reduced. As a result, the maintenance work for the housing 40 can be reduced.

The above explanation is based on the positional relationship between the check valve V5 and the check valve V3a in the first liquid storage unit 20A shown in FIG. 25, but the same effect can be obtained by arranging the check valve V5 and the check valve V3b in the second liquid storage unit 20B in the same direction.

Even if the first liquid agent remaining between the check valve V5 and the check valve V3a and the second liquid agent remaining between the check valve V5 and the check valve V3b drip onto the bottom wall 41, as described above, in a configuration in which the treatment liquid flows toward the opening 413 of the bottom wall 41, the first liquid agent and the second liquid agent that drip onto the bottom wall 41 are also washed away after each wash.

In one embodiment, the support plate 412 constituting a part of the bottom wall 41 forms an opening 413. As shown in FIG. 24, in a configuration in which the lower part of the support plate 412 is inclined backward, the treatment liquid is poured backward into the inner tub 5b from the opening 413 (inlet 13b). In this case, the treatment liquid is poured onto the inner circumferential surface side of the inner tub 5b. Depending on the laundry, it may be better to supply the treatment liquid containing the liquid agent directly to the laundry. When the treatment liquid is poured backward from the opening 413 as described above, the treatment liquid is also easily applied to the laundry near the periphery of the inner tub 5b.

The above describes an embodiment of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the exemplified embodiment, and is intended to include the scope indicated by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

For example, the number of liquid storage sections may be three or more. Elements that function as a water supply section and a negative pressure generating section may be integrally provided in the housing.

The first storage area is arranged on the upper surface of the top wall and the second storage area is arranged on the back surface of the rear wall, but the second storage area may be arranged on the upper surface of the top wall and the first storage area may be arranged on the back surface of the rear wall.

As long as the first storage area and the second storage area are arranged on different surfaces of the housing, the surfaces on which the first storage area and the second storage area are arranged are not limited to the surfaces shown as examples.

The various embodiments described above may be combined as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The gist of the present disclosure is as follows: [1] to [4]
[1] A first liquid agent storage portion that stores a first liquid agent;
a second liquid agent storage section that stores a second liquid agent;
a supply mechanism that supplies the first liquid agent and the second liquid agent in the first liquid agent storage unit and the second liquid agent in the second liquid agent storage unit together with water to a washing tub as a treatment liquid;
having
The supply mechanism includes:
a housing having an accommodation space for accommodating the first liquid agent accommodation portion and the second liquid agent accommodation portion;
a water supply flow path through which water is supplied from an outside;
an input flow path for inputting the treatment liquid into the washing tub;
a first liquid agent outlet flow path for taking out the first liquid agent from the first liquid agent storage portion;
a second liquid agent outlet flow path for taking out the second liquid agent from the second liquid agent storage portion;
a first intermediate flow path connecting the water supply flow path and the input flow path and connected to the first liquid agent extraction flow path;
a second intermediate flow path connecting the water supply flow path and the input flow path and connected to the second liquid agent extraction flow path;
having
the first intermediate flow path has a first storage region configured to store the first liquid agent extracted from the first liquid agent storage unit by the first liquid agent extraction flow path,
the second intermediate flow path has a second storage flow region configured to store the second liquid agent taken out from the second liquid agent storage portion by the second liquid agent take-out flow path,
The first storage area is formed in a first surface of the housing,
The second storage area is formed on a second surface of the housing that is different from the first surface.
[2] The housing includes:
The bottom wall and
A top wall facing the bottom wall;
a rear wall connecting the bottom wall and the top wall;
a first side wall connecting the bottom wall, the top wall, and the rear wall;
a second side wall connecting the bottom wall, the top wall, and the rear wall and facing the first side wall;
having
The storage space is formed by the bottom wall, the top wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall,
the first surface is an outer surface of the top wall;
The second surface is an outer surface of the rear wall.
The treatment liquid supplying device according to [1].
[3] Each of the first storage area and the second storage area is folded at least once.
The treatment liquid supplying device according to [1].
[4] A washing tub,
A processing liquid supply device according to any one of [1] to [3],
Equipped with a washing machine.

1... washing machine, 5b... inner tub (washing tub), 10... treatment liquid supply device, 11... water supply flow path, 12A... first main flow path (first intermediate flow path), 12B... second main flow path (second intermediate flow path), 13... supply flow path, 14A... first liquid agent extraction flow path, 14B... second liquid agent extraction flow path, 20A... first liquid agent storage section, 20B... second liquid agent storage section, 41... bottom wall, 42... left side wall (first side wall or second side wall), 43... right side wall (second side wall or first side wall), 44... rear wall, 45... top wall, 46... sixth pipe section (first liquid agent extraction flow path), 47... seventh pipe section (second liquid agent extraction flow path), 54a... connecting pipe (first intermediate flow path), 54b... connecting pipe (second intermediate flow path), 71... first valve storage section (first intermediate flow path), 72...second valve housing (second intermediate flow path), 311...water supply pipe section (water supply flow path), 312...first pipe section (first intermediate flow path), 313...second pipe section (second intermediate flow path), 321...third pipe section (first intermediate flow path), 322...fourth pipe section (second intermediate flow path), 441...back surface (second surface, outer surface), 451...top surface (first surface, outer surface), 501...first top surface flow path (first intermediate flow path, first storage area), 502...second top surface flow path (second intermediate flow path), 504...fourth top surface flow path, 504b...hole, 601...first back surface flow path (first intermediate flow path), 602...second back surface flow path (second intermediate flow path, second storage area), S1...internal space (water supply flow path).

Claims (4)

a first liquid agent storage portion that stores a first liquid agent;
a second liquid agent storage section that stores a second liquid agent;
a supply mechanism that supplies the first liquid agent and the second liquid agent in the first liquid agent storage unit and the second liquid agent in the second liquid agent storage unit together with water to a washing tub as a treatment liquid;
having
The supply mechanism includes:
a housing having an accommodation space for accommodating the first liquid agent accommodation portion and the second liquid agent accommodation portion;
a water supply flow path through which water is supplied from an outside;
an input flow path for inputting the treatment liquid into the washing tub;
a first liquid agent outlet flow path for taking out the first liquid agent from the first liquid agent storage portion;
a second liquid agent outlet flow path for taking out the second liquid agent from the second liquid agent storage portion;
a first intermediate flow path connecting the water supply flow path and the input flow path and connected to the first liquid agent extraction flow path;
a second intermediate flow path connecting the water supply flow path and the input flow path and connected to the second liquid agent extraction flow path;
having
the first intermediate flow path has a first storage region configured to store the first liquid agent extracted from the first liquid agent storage unit by the first liquid agent extraction flow path,
the second intermediate flow path has a second storage region configured to store the second liquid agent extracted from the second liquid agent storage portion by the second liquid agent extraction flow path,
The first storage area is formed in a first surface of the housing,
The second storage area is formed in a second surface of the housing that is different from the first surface.
Processing liquid injection device. The housing includes:
The bottom wall and
A top wall facing the bottom wall;
a rear wall connecting the bottom wall and the top wall;
a first side wall connecting the bottom wall, the top wall, and the rear wall;
a second side wall connecting the bottom wall, the top wall, and the rear wall and facing the first side wall;
having
The storage space is formed by the bottom wall, the top wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall,
the first surface is an outer surface of the top wall;
The second surface is an outer surface of the rear wall.
The treatment liquid supplying device according to claim 1 . Each of the first storage area and the second storage area is folded at least once.
The treatment liquid supplying device according to claim 1 . A washing tub and
The treatment liquid supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
Equipped with a washing machine.

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