JP3956870B2

JP3956870B2 - dishwasher

Info

Publication number: JP3956870B2
Application number: JP2003063286A
Authority: JP
Inventors: 眞大山; 浩章乾; 隆幸井上; 智之菊川
Original assignee: Panasonic Corp; Matsushita Electric Industrial Co Ltd
Current assignee: Panasonic Corp; Panasonic Holdings Corp
Priority date: 2003-03-10
Filing date: 2003-03-10
Publication date: 2007-08-08
Anticipated expiration: 2023-03-10
Also published as: JP2004267507A

Description

【０００１】
【発明の属する技術分野】
本発明は、食器に洗浄水を噴射して洗浄する食器洗い機に関するものである。
【０００２】
【従来の技術】
従来、この種の食器洗い機は、図２２および図２３に示すような構成であった（例えば、特許文献１参照）。以下、その構成について説明する。
【０００３】
図２２に示すように、洗浄水を加圧する洗浄ポンプ１と、洗浄水を噴射する噴射口を有する複数個の洗浄手段２と、洗浄ポンプ１からの洗浄水が供給される洗浄手段２を切換える分水手段３とを備え、分水手段３は、図２３のように、複数個の吐出口を有する円筒形のケーシング４の内側に、ほぼ同径の円筒形の弁体５を備え、弁体５を駆動用モータ６で回転させ、弁体５の吐出口７から吐出される洗浄水を洗浄手段２に順次供給し、噴射するようになっていた。
【０００４】
これにより、給水量（循環水量）を増やすことなく洗浄手段２の数を増やすことができ、被洗浄物に対してより多方向から洗浄水を噴射できることから、高効率な洗浄が行え、運転時間の短縮や、省エネ、節水が図れるようになっていた。
【０００５】
【特許文献１】
特開２００１−２１８７２１号公報
【０００６】
【発明が解決しようとする課題】
しかしながら、従来の食器洗い機の分水手段では、ほぼ同径のケーシング４と弁体５が近接ないし接触しながら、相対運動する構成であり、洗浄水と共に循環する残さい等の異物がその隙間に入り込んだ場合でも、確実に弁体５を回転させるために、強力な駆動用モータ６で弁体５を回転させる必要があった。
【０００７】
本発明では、安価で小型の分水手段を実現するために、この駆動用モータ６を用いずに、洗浄ポンプ１の運転と停止などによるケーシング４内の流れの変動によって弁体５を移動する構成であり、弁体を回転させる力が小さく、従来の構成をそのまま用いると、弁体５の外周部に異物が挟まった場合には、弁体５の回転が不能とってしまう可能性を有していた。こうなると、同一の洗浄手段２からのみ洗浄水が噴射され、洗浄槽内全体を洗浄することができなくなってしまう。
【０００８】
【課題を解決するための手段】
前記従来の課題を解決するために、本発明の食器洗い機は、弁体は、洗浄ポンプの断続運転によって移動する構成とし、ケーシングまたは前記弁体のいずれか一方に設けた軸部と他方に設けた穴部を回転自在に嵌合させ、前記軸部と穴部の嵌合部に複数の近接部を設け、前記近接部は、前記軸部の外周部に軸方向へ延びる筋状の凸部を設けて構成するとともに、前記弁体の降下時に前記弁体を所定角度回転させる一組の下部係合部を前記軸部および穴部の外側に各々設置し、前記洗浄ポンプを運転し前記ケーシング内を洗浄水が流れて前記弁体が上昇しているときに、前記穴部側に設けた下部係合部の隣接する頂部の間に前記軸部の凸部を対向させたものである。
【０００９】
これにより、弁体とケーシングは、回転中心部にある軸部と穴部とが、近接ないし接触しながら相対運動するため、弁体の外周部で相対運動する場合と比べて相対する面積は最小となり、異物の挟まる確率は小さくなる。また、その隙間に異物が入り込んだ場合でも、それに対抗して回転させるための力も最小で済むため、ケーシング内の流れの変動によって弁体を移動させるなど、弁体を回転させる力が小さい場合でも、異物によって弁体が回転不能となる可能性はほとんどなくなる。
【００１０】
【発明の実施の形態】
本発明の請求項１に記載の発明は、洗浄水を加圧する洗浄ポンプと、洗浄水を噴射する噴射口を有する複数個の洗浄手段と、前記洗浄ポンプからの洗浄水が供給される洗浄手段を切換える分水手段とを備え、前記分水手段は、ケーシングと、洗浄水の流れを切換える弁体とを有し、前記弁体は、前記洗浄ポンプの断続運転によって移動する構成とし、前記ケーシングまたは前記弁体のいずれか一方に設けた軸部と他方に設けた穴部を回転自在に嵌合させ、前記軸部と穴部の嵌合部に複数の近接部を設け、前記近接部は、前記軸部の外周部に軸方向へ延びる筋状の凸部を設けて構成するとともに、前記弁体の降下時に前記弁体を所定角度回転させる一組の下部係合部を前記軸部および穴部の外側に各々設置し、前記洗浄ポンプを運転し前記ケーシング内を洗浄水が流れて前記弁体が上昇しているときに、前記穴部側に設けた下部係合部の隣接する頂部の間に前記軸部の凸部を対向させたものであり、弁体とケーシングは、中心付近の軸部と穴部とが近接ないし接触しながら相対運動するため、弁体の外周部で相対運動する場合と比べて、相対する面積は最小となり、異物の挟まる確率は小さくなる。
【００１１】
また、その隙間に異物が入り込んだ場合でも、それに対抗して回転させるための力も最小で済むため、ケーシング内の流れの変動によって弁体を移動させるなど、弁体を回転させる力が小さい場合でも、異物によって弁体が回転不能となる可能性はほとんどなくなる。このため、異物によって分水手段が切換え不能となり、洗浄槽内全体の洗浄ができなくなることを防止し、信頼性の高い機器を提供できる。
【００１２】
請求項２に記載の発明は、請求項１に記載の発明において、隣接した近接部の間には、その近接部より大きい空間部を形成したものであり、軸部と穴部は複数個の近接部のみで接することから、異物はより挟まりにくくなるとともに、一度挟まった異物はわずかな弁体の移動で容易に外れることから、異物が詰まって弁体が切換不能となる事態を回避できる。
【００１３】
請求項３に記載の発明は、請求項１に記載の発明において、穴部側に設けた係合部の隣接する頂部の間に凹部を設け、凸部と前記凹部を対向させたものであり、軸部と係合部との隙間に異物が挟まる可能性を完全に排除できる。
【００１４】
請求項４に記載の発明は、請求項１に記載の発明において、洗浄水がケーシングに流入する流入部の中心は、弁体の回転中心部より外周側に偏位させたものであり、ケーシング内にはケーシング内を回る旋回流が発生し、異物の大部分を占める水より比重の大きい残さい等の異物は、この旋回流によってケーシングの外周側に移動する。このため、ケーシングの中心付近に位置する軸部と穴部からは異物が遠ざかる傾向にあり、軸部と穴部の隙間に異物が挟まる確率を低下させることができる。
【００１５】
請求項５に記載の発明は、請求項１に記載の発明において、洗浄水の流れを停止ないし減少させた際に、弁体は移動開始とともに回転動作する構成としたものであり、近接部に異物が挟まった場合でも、弁体が移動開始とともに回転動作すれば、近接部と近接部の間の広い空間に異物は移動し、これを確実に除去することができる。
【００１６】
請求項６に記載の発明は、請求項１に記載の発明において、嵌合した軸部と穴部、または近接部は、排水手段によって排水動作を行った後に残った洗浄水の水位より上方に設けたものであり、運転終了後には、残水中に残った異物や油分等の影響を全く受けないため、次回運転時に切換不能となる事態が発生することはない。
【００１７】
請求項７に記載の発明は、請求項１に記載の発明において、嵌合した軸部と穴部、または近接部は、定格の洗浄水位まで給水した状態の洗浄水に水没する位置に設けたものであり、弁体を移動させるためにケーシング内の流れを変動した際に、嵌合している軸部と穴部または近接部の隙間に異物が通過することはほとんどなく、異物に対する信頼性が向上する。
【００１８】
請求項８に記載の発明は、請求項１に記載の発明において、洗浄水の流れ停止ないし低下させた際に、弁体が移動する方向に付勢力を作用する付勢手段を備えたものであり、洗浄水の流れ停止ないし低下させた際の移動にはポンプ圧が作用しないため、その駆動力は弁体の自重のみであるが、この方向に付勢力を作用させることで、異物が挟まった状態でも弁体の移動は容易となり、切換えの信頼性がさらに向上する。
【００１９】
【実施例】
以下、本発明の実施例について、図面を参照しながら説明する。
【００２０】
（実施例１）
図１〜図５に示すように、食器洗い機本体２０には、扉２１で開閉可能な洗浄槽２２を設け、食器等の被洗浄物２３は食器かご２４にセットされ、洗浄槽２２内に収容している。２６は給水弁（図示せず）を介して供給された洗浄槽２２の洗浄水を加圧する洗浄ポンプで、複数の噴射孔を設けた洗浄ノズル（洗浄手段）２７に洗浄水を供給し、洗浄手段２７より洗浄水を噴射する。洗浄手段２７は、食器かご２４の下方から噴射する２７ａ、２７ｂと、背面より噴射する２７ｃの３ヶ所に設置しており、洗浄手段２７ａと２７ｂは噴流によって軸まわりに回転する回転ノズル、洗浄手段２７ｃは移動しない固定ノズルとし、各々の洗浄手段２７には洗浄水を噴射する噴射口を４〜１０個程度備えている。
【００２１】
洗浄槽２２の底部には、洗浄ポンプ２６の吸い込み側へ連通した排水口２８を有し、この排水口２８には残さいを収集する残さいフィルタ２９と加熱用の発熱体３０を設け、洗浄槽２２の温度を検知する温度センサ３１を設けている。排水ポンプ３２は洗浄槽２２内の洗浄水を排出するものである。送風機３３（図示せず）は、送風経路３４（図示せず）を通して洗浄槽２２に空気を送り、その排気を排気口３５より排出するようにしている。
【００２２】
洗浄ポンプ２６の吐出経路３６には、洗浄水を供給する洗浄手段２７を選択的に切換える分水手段３７を設置しており、この分水手段３７は、図３および図４に示す構造をしている。洗浄ポンプ２６で加圧された洗浄水が流入する流入部３８と、４個の流出部３９を有するケーシング４０と、ケーシング４０内に移動可能に設けた弁体４１とで構成され、弁体４１には洗浄水を通過させる開口部４２を設けている。そして、弁体４１の上昇時に弁体４１を所定角度だけ回転させる一組の上部係合部４４と、弁体４１の降下時に弁体４１を所定角度だけ回転させる一組の下部係合部４５とを、ケーシング４０側と弁体４１側に各々設置している。
【００２３】
ケーシング４０には軸部６０を備え、弁体４１には軸部６０と嵌合する穴部６１を設けており、弁体４１外周の隙間よりも、軸部６０と穴部６１の隙間の方が小さくなるように設定している。また、ケーシング４０への流入部３８の中心Ａは、弁体４１の回転中心Ｂ（軸部６０）より外周側に距離Ｃだけ偏位して設けている。
【００２４】
ここで、洗浄水を切換える弁体４１を移動させる駆動手段は設置しておらず、ケーシング４０内の流れの変動、例えば洗浄ポンプ２６の運転と停止や、ポンプ出力の強弱などによって、移動させる構成である。
【００２５】
図５は、弁体４１の下側から見た図であり、流出部３９は各々洗浄経路４３で洗浄手段２７に接続されているが、このうち流出部３９ａと３９ｃに接続された洗浄経路４３は連結され、共に洗浄手段２７ａに接続されている。
【００２６】
なお、図３等は分水手段３７の概念的な図であり、実際には、ケーシング４０は上下に２分割して、ビス止めや嵌め込み、溶着や溶接等で結合された構造となる。また、洗浄槽２２が樹脂製の場合など、この洗浄槽２２の底面と一体でケーシング４０の一部を構成することも可能である。
【００２７】
上記構成において、まず、食器洗い機の基本動作について説明する。食器等の被洗浄物２３を食器かご２４にセットして洗浄槽２２に収納し、洗剤を投入した後、扉２１により食器洗浄機本体２０の開口部を閉塞し、運転を開始する。被洗浄物２３の汚れを落とす洗浄工程、付着した洗剤や残菜を流すすすぎ工程、そして被洗浄物２３に付着している水適を乾燥させる乾燥工程の順に実行する。
【００２８】
まず、給水弁を動作して所定量の洗浄水を洗浄槽２２に給水し、続いて洗浄ポンプ２６により洗浄水を加圧し、洗浄手段２７から洗浄水を噴射する。この際、洗浄槽２２内に設けたシーズヒータ等の発熱体３０に通電しており、洗浄水を加温しながら洗浄工程は行われる。また、温度センサ３１は洗浄槽２２の温度を検知しており、所定温度以上になると発熱体３０への通電を停止する。
【００２９】
洗浄水は、残さいフィルタ２９を通過して洗浄ポンプ２６に吸い込まれ、洗浄ポンプ２６より洗浄槽２２に設けた洗浄手段２７に供給されて、洗浄槽２２内に噴射され、被洗浄物２３を洗浄した後、再び排水口２８に戻るという経路で循環する。この際、被洗浄物２３から脱落した残さい等は、洗浄水とともに残さいフィルタ２９に流入し、残さいフィルタ２９を通過できない大きさの残さいは残さいフィルタ２９に捕集される。
【００３０】
所定時間の洗浄工程を終えると、汚れを含む洗浄水は排水ポンプ３２により機外に排出され、新たに洗浄水が供給される。洗浄ポンプ２６を運転し、洗浄ノズル２７から再び洗浄水を噴射して、洗剤や残菜等の付着した被洗浄物２３のすすぎを行う。所定時間運転した後、洗浄水を排出し、再び洗浄水を供給するという動作を繰り返し、このすすぎ工程は連続して３回程度行う。最後に、洗浄水を機外に排出して、すすぎ工程は終了する。
【００３１】
続いて乾燥工程を行い、送風機を動作させることにより、送風経路を通って外気が洗浄槽２２内に送風され、排気口３５から排出される。この際、発熱体３０には通電されており、送風と温度の両方の効果によって被洗浄物２３に付着した水滴の蒸発は促進される。所定時間これらの乾燥工程を行い、運転を終了する。
【００３２】
次に、本実施例の特徴的な構成である分水手段３７の動作、作用について説明する。図３および図４に示すように、ケーシング４０は略円筒形であり、その軸方向が略鉛直方向に配置されており、洗浄ポンプ２６で加圧された洗浄水が流入する流入部３８はケーシング４０の下端部に、流出部３９はケーシング４０の上面に設置している。流出部３９と弁体４１との相対する面は平面形状としており、開口部４２以外には洗浄水が流れないようにするシール面を構成している。
【００３３】
洗浄ポンプ２６を運転した場合、流入部３８より流入した洗浄水の流れ（圧力）によって弁体４１は、上部係合部４４の傾斜に従って、略直動および回転を伴った動作で上昇し、図３に示すように、所定の流出部３９が開口するような位置で固定され、この流出部３９と連通した洗浄手段２７から洗浄水が噴射される。弁体４１の下側から見ると、図５のように、弁体４１を洗浄水が通過する位置に設けた開口部４２が、所定の流出部３９と一致するように、上部係合部４４を設定している。（断面図では係合部の詳細は図示しておらず、図７を参照のこと）。
【００３４】
続いて、洗浄ポンプ２６を一旦停止すると、弁体４１を下方から押し上げていた圧力が作用しなくなることから、弁体４１はその自重で降下するが、この際、下部係合部４５の傾斜に従って回転しながら降下し、図６に示すように所定位置で停止する。再び、洗浄ポンプ２６を運転すると、上部係合部４４の次の傾斜に係合され、弁体４１は回転しながら上昇し、次の所定位置で停止し、次の洗浄手段２７から洗浄水を噴射する。
【００３５】
円形の上部係合部４４および下部係合部４５を平面に引き伸ばしてその関係を示すと、図７（Ａ）のようになっており、洗浄ポンプ２６の運転と停止を繰り返すことで、上下方向の略直動と回転運動を組み合わせた動作をしながら弁体４１の位置は順次切換わる。本実施例では、４ヶ所の流出部３９に切換えるため、一回の停止と運転で弁体４１が９０度回転する構成であるが、任意数の分割が可能である。
【００３６】
なお、この上部係合部４４および下部係合部４５に関しては、本構成に限定するものではなく、洗浄ポンプ２６を断続的に運転する際に、洗浄ポンプ２６を運転中に所定の流出部３９と弁体４１の開口部４２が一致すればよく、例えば、弁体４１の降下時にはほとんど回転せず、上昇時に約９０度回転したり、逆に、降下時に約９０度回転し、上昇時にはほとんど回転しない構成であってもよい。
【００３７】
弁体４１は、図５の位置から、洗浄ポンプ２６の停止、運転により９０度ずつ回転するため、洗浄ポンプ２６を断続的に運転することで、洗浄水が噴射する洗浄手段２７は２７ａ→２７ｂ→２７ａ→２７ｃの順で切換わる。これが、弁体４１が一周する切換えの１サイクルであり、この噴射パターンを繰り返しながら噴射し続ける。
【００３８】
これらの作用によって、同時に３ヶ所の洗浄手段２７に洗浄水を供給するのではなく、１個ないし２個の洗浄手段２７に、順次、洗浄水を送り込むため、給水量を増加させることなく、少ない水量で、任意の被洗浄物２３に対して複数方向から洗浄水を噴射させることができる。したがって、短時間で被洗浄物２３等に付着した汚染物を洗浄することができ、高効率な洗浄を実現することができる。
【００３９】
また、被洗浄物２３に対してより多方向から洗浄水を噴射することができるため、使用者は被洗浄物２３の食器かご２４へのセット位置や、縦置き、伏せ置き等のセット方法を選ぶことなく自由にセットできるため、よりセット性に優れた食器洗い機とすることができる。さらには、角鉢、深い小鉢、角皿等、単一方向からの噴射では洗浄水が十分行き届かなかった食器に対しても、十分な洗浄性能を発揮することができる。
【００４０】
本発明では、洗浄水が噴射する洗浄手段２７を切換えるために、３方弁や電動モータ等の専用駆動手段を必要とせず、安価で、かつ小型の分水手段３７を提供できる。また、モータ駆動の場合には、回転軸はケーシング４０を貫通して設置する必要があり、稠密なシール手段を設ける必要があり構造が複雑になると同時に、このシールが不良の場合には、製品外部に水漏れを起こす可能性を有していたが、本構成では、ケーシング４０を貫通して動作する部品は存在せず、外部に水漏れを起こす恐れはない。
【００４１】
食器洗い機では、単に水道水が循環しているのではなく、残さいなどの異物を伴った洗浄水が循環している。残さいフィルタ２９により残さいを捕集する構成ではあるが、フィルタサイズより小さい異物は通過してしまうため、これらの異物に対して詰まらない分水手段３７が要求される。本発明では、図３のように、ケーシング４０に設けた軸部６０に、弁体４１に設けた穴部６１を挿入して構成し、穴部６０と軸部６１が近接または接触することで、弁体４１の上下直動および回転の動作を規制している。
【００４２】
例えば、弁体４１の外径が１００ｍｍ、軸部６１の径を５ｍｍとすると、弁体４１の外周部で相対運動する場合と比べて、相対する面積（円周長）は２０分の１程度と非常に小さく、異物の挟まる確率も小さくなる。それに加え、その隙間に異物が入り込んだ場合でも、異物に対抗して回転させるために必要な力（回転トルク）も同様に２０分の１程度で済み、専用駆動手段を用いずにケーシング４０内の流れの変動によって弁体４１を移動させるなど、弁体４１を回転させる力が小さい場合でも、異物によって弁体４１が回転不能となる可能性はほとんどなくなる。このため、異物によって分水手段３７が切換え不能となり、洗浄槽２２内全体の洗浄ができなくなることを防止し、信頼性の高い機器を提供できる。
【００４３】
図４のように、洗浄水がケーシング４０に流入する流入部３８の中心Ａは、弁体４１の回転中心部Ｂより外周側に距離Ｃだけ偏位させており、ケーシング４０内にはケーシング４０内を回る旋回流が発生し、異物の大部分を占める水より比重の大きい異物は、この旋回流の遠心作用でケーシング４０の外周側に移動する。このため、ケーシング４０の中心付近に位置する軸部６０と穴部６１からは異物が遠ざかる傾向にあり、軸部６０と穴部６１の隙間に異物が引っ掛かる確率をさらに低下させることができる。
【００４４】
弁体４１の上方向への移動には、洗浄水の圧力が作用し、ケーシング４０内は通常２０〜４０ｋＰａ程度まで加圧されるため、弁体４１の大きさにもよるが、２０〜１００Ｎ程度の大きな力が弁体４１には作用するため、多少異物が引っ掛かっていたとしても、弁体４１を移動させることが可能である。しかし、弁体４１の降下に対しては、弁体４１の自重のみの作用となり、その推進力は小さい。このため、図８のように、弁体４１が流出部３９から離れる方向に作用する付勢手段６２としてばね材を弁体に作用させることで、異物が噛み込んだ状態でも十分に弁体４１を移動させることが可能になり、切換えの信頼性向上が図れる。
【００４５】
なお、図８のようなコイルばねを作用させる以外にも、板ばね等の他のばね材を用いたり、ゴム等の弾性体を作用させたり、あるいは、弁体４１の自重を増加するために、金属製の別体を弁体４１に固定したり、挿入して成形することなどでも、同様の効果が得られる。また、弁体４１に磁石または磁性体を設置し、磁力を利用して弁体４１を下方に付勢する構成等も考えられる。
【００４６】
なお、軸部６０と穴部６１の形状については、図３の形状に限定するものではなく、図９のように軸部６０を途中で切断したものや、図１０のように穴部６１を貫通しない閉塞穴とした場合や、図１１のようにケーシング４０と穴部６１を、弁体４１に軸部６０を設けた場合など、種々の構成が想定されるが、いずれも異物に対する高い信頼性が得られる。
【００４７】
なお、洗浄手段の数は３個とし、噴射パターンを２７ａ→２７ｂ→２７ａ→２７ｃのように設定したが、洗浄手段２７の個数や噴射パターンに限定するものではなく、被洗浄物２３の配置等に応じた種々の組み合わせが考えられ、効果を発揮できる。例えば、図１２のように４個の洗浄手段２７を備え、洗浄槽の底面に２個（２７ａ、２７ｂ）、右天面に１個（２７ｃ）、左側面に１個（２７ｄ）設置し、４個の洗浄手段２７から順次洗浄水を噴射する場合など、本体形状や、食器かご食器配置などに応じて適切な噴射を行えばよい。
【００４８】
洗浄手段２７の個数は、２ヶ所以上であれば効果を発揮するが、ある被洗浄物２３に対して２方向以上からの噴射が得られることが、洗浄性能を向上する上で重要であり、洗浄槽２２が略立方体形状の場合は２ヶ所以上、直方体形状の方形の場合には３ヶ所以上であることが望ましい。逆に、分岐数が多すぎると、１個の洗浄手段２７から噴射される総水量が小さくなり洗浄効果が薄れることから１０ヶ所以下、好ましくは６ヶ所以下であることが望ましい。
【００４９】
また、洗浄ポンプ２６は、運転と停止を繰り返す構成としたが、インバータモータを使用した洗浄ポンプのように、ポンプの出力を可変できるものを使用する場合には、ポンプの出力の強弱を利用して弁体４１を切換えることも可能である。弱時の出力を、弁体４１が流出部３９から離れる出力以下にすれば切換え可能であり、ポンプの運転と停止の回数が減少することから、モータの寿命向上を図ることができるとともに、静音化にもつながる。また、噴射する洗浄ノズル２７ごとに噴射の出力を可変することで、汚れの強弱に応じた任意の噴射を行うことも可能である。
【００５０】
なお、本発明は洗浄水の切換方式に関するものであり、食器洗い機本体２０の形状や大きさ、扉２１の開閉方式、被洗浄物２３の配置、個々の部品の配置等を限定するものではない。また、実施例１では、乾燥機能を有する食器洗い乾燥機の例を示したが、乾燥機能を伴わない食器洗い機においても同様の効果が得られる。
【００５１】
（実施例２）
図１３は、弁体４１を上方より見た図であり、ケーシング４０の下方より突出した軸部６０には、その軸方向に筋状の凸部６３を備えている。この他の基本構成は実施例１と同様である。
【００５２】
実施例１と同様に、洗浄ポンプ２６の運転、停止の繰り返しにより、弁体４１は上下動し、９０度ずつ回転することで順次洗浄水が噴射する洗浄手段２７を切換えるが、軸部６０に設けた４個の凸部６３を近接部として、軸部６０と穴部６１は接触ないし近接しながら、弁体４１は回転および直動する。近接部（凸部）６３と近接部（凸部）６３の間にはそれよりも大きい空間部が存在しているため、異物が挟まる可能性は近接部の４点のみになり、異物はより引っ掛かりにくくなる。
【００５３】
図１４のように一度挟まった異物Ｄも、図１５のようにわずかに弁体４１が回転動作するだけど、容易に外れることから、異物詰まりによって弁体４１が切換不能となる事態を回避できる。図７（Ｂ）のように、洗浄水の流れを停止ないし減少させた際に弁体４１は移動開始とともに回転動作（矢印のように斜めに移動）するように、上部係合部４４を設定すれば、図１５のように異物Ｄは近接部（凸部）６３と近接部（凸部）６３の間の広い空間部に移動し、確実に除去することができる。
【００５４】
隣接する近接部６３の隙間は、残さいフィルタ２９のサイズより大きく設定しておけば、より確実に異物詰まりを回避できる。通常、残さいフィルタ２９は、パンチングメタル等で形成されており、その穴径（１ｍｍや２ｍｍ程度）よりも大きく設定すれば良いが、着脱式のフィルタと固定式のフィルタがある場合、好ましくは、固定式フィルタのサイズ以上の隙間に設定することが望ましい。
【００５５】
また、軸部６０と穴部６１の外周側には、一対の下部係合部４５を各々設置しており、図１６のように、洗浄ポンプ２６を運転し洗浄水が通過している状態の弁体４１位置において、凸部６３は、弁体４１側に設けた下部係合部４５の隣接する頂部６４の間に対向するように配置している。係合部４５は、図のように三角形状であり、係合部４５と空間が交互に存在するため、ケーシング４０内の流れに乗って、異物は、その空間部分から係合部４５と軸部６０の間に入り込む可能性が高い。頂部６４と凸部６３が一致すれば、その隙間に異物が引っ掛かる可能性が増大するが、凸部６３を隣接する頂部６４の間に対向させることで、相対する面積が小さくなり、隙間への異物の引っ掛かりを低減できる。
【００５６】
さらに、図１７のように、隣接する頂部６４と頂部６４の間に傾斜のない凹部６５を設け、その凹部６５と凸部６３を対向させることで、軸部６０と下部係合部４５との間の異物詰まりは完全に回避できる。なお、この場合、凸部６３の数と係合部４５の頂部６４の数を一致させると、いずれの凸部６３の関係も同一条件となることから、異物に対する安定性はさらに高まる。
【００５７】
（実施例３）
図１８は、弁体４１を上方より見た図であり、ケーシング４０および弁体４１は略円形形状とし、弁体４１の外周部に複数個の凸部（近接部）６３を設けている。
【００５８】
弁体４１とケーシング４０は、弁体４１の外周に設けた凸部（近接部）６３により、接触ないし近接することで、弁体４１の動作を規制する構成としており、近接部６３と近接部６３の間にはそれより大きい空間を設けている。ケーシング４０と弁体４１は近接部６３のみで近接することから、異物の引っ掛かる面積が減少し、異物に対する信頼性の向上が図れる。
【００５９】
また、実施例２と同様に、近接部６３に一度挟まった異物も、弁体４１が回転動作するだけで、容易に外れることから、異物詰まりにより弁体４１が切換不能となる事態を回避できる。さらに、洗浄水の流れを停止ないし減少させた際に、弁体４１は移動開始とともに回転動作する構成とすれば、近接部６３に異物が挟まった場合でも、異物は近接部６３と近接部６３の間の広い空間部に確実に移動し、除去することができるため、異物によって切換不能となる事態をほぼ回避できる。
【００６０】
隣接する近接部６３の隙間は、残さいフィルタ２９のサイズより大きく設定しておけば、より確実に異物詰まりを回避できる。通常、残さいフィルタ２９は、パンチングメタル等で形成されており、その穴径（１ｍｍや２ｍｍ程度）よりも大きく設定すれば良いが、着脱式のフィルタと固定式のフィルタがある場合、好ましくは、固定式フィルタのサイズ以上の隙間に設定することが望ましい。
【００６１】
なお、凸部６３は、弁体４１側ではなく、ケーシング４０側に設けても同様の効果が得られる。また、近接部は凸部６３に限定するものではなく、図１９のように弁体４１を楕円形に構成し、Ｅの部分を近接部とするなど、種々の形状が想定できる。
【００６２】
（実施例４）
図２０は、排水手段である排水ポンプ３２により排水した状態のケーシング４０内の図であり、嵌合した軸部６０と穴部６１（近接部）は、排水手段３２によって排水動作を行った後に残った洗浄水の水位Ｆより上方に位置するように設置している。この他の基本構成は実施例１と同様である。
【００６３】
排水手段としては、一般には排水ポンプ３２が用いられ、洗浄本ポンプ２６とは個別に設けたり、洗浄ポンプ２６と一体で設けるなど様々ではあるが、いずれにしても、洗浄経路内の洗浄水を完全に機外に排出することはできず、いくらかの残水が残る。普通に運転を終了した場合、最後の残水はきれいな状態であるが、汚染の種類や量によっては、残水中に油分や異物の残る可能性がある。例えば、大量の油分を投入され、洗剤を入れ忘れた場合などには、油分が残る。隙間の最も小さい近接部等が残水に浸水した状態で長時間放置されると、水分が蒸発して、残った油分が固着してしまい、次回運転時に弁体が動作不能となる恐れがあるが、残水位より上方に設置することで、この固着現象を回避でき、確実な分水の切換を維持できる。
【００６４】
（実施例５）
図２１は、定格位置（給水位Ｇ）まで洗浄水を給水した状態のケーシング内の図であり、その洗浄水に水没する位置に嵌合した軸部６０と穴部６１（近接部）を設けている。この他の基本構成は実施例１と同様である。
【００６５】
実施例１と同様に洗浄ポンプ２６の運転と停止を繰り返すことで、分水手段３７の弁体４１を切換えるが、上記構成とすることで、洗浄ポンプ２６の運転開始とともに、弁体４１とケーシング４０の隙間に異物が入り込むことを回避できる。給水状態で、嵌合した軸部６０と穴部６１（近接部）が水没しない場合、洗浄ポンプ２６を停止すれば、その隙間から洗浄水が抜けて、空間となる。そして、次に洗浄ポンプ２６を運転すると、その隙間には洗浄水が必ず入り込むため、その流れに伴って異物が入り込む可能性が高い。しかし、洗浄ポンプ２６の停止状態でも水没していれば、弁体４１は洗浄水と一緒に移動するため、近接部の隙間を洗浄水はほとんど通過しない。このため、嵌合した軸部６０と穴部６１、または近接部への異物の通過を最小に抑えることができ、異物に対する信頼性を高められる。
【００６６】
【発明の効果】
以上のように本発明によれば、相対運動する弁体とケーシングが接触ないし近接する隙間に、異物が引っ掛かることを抑制し、分水手段が切換不可能となることを回避し、信頼性の高い分水手段を提供することができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の実施例１の食器洗い機の要部断面図
【図２】同食器洗い機の要部断面図
【図３】同食器洗い機の分水手段の洗浄ポンプ運転状態での断面図
【図４】同食器洗い機の分水手段の分解斜視図
【図５】同食器洗い機の分水手段の弁体の下面図
【図６】同食器洗い機の分水手段の洗浄ポンプ停止状態での断面図
【図７】（Ａ）同食器洗い機の分水手段の係合部の詳細図
（Ｂ）同食器洗い機の弁体の移動方向を示す詳細図
【図８】同食器洗い機の付勢手段を設けた分水手段の断面図
【図９】同食器洗い機の他の分水手段の断面図
【図１０】同食器洗い機の他の分水手段の断面図
【図１１】同食器洗い機の他の分水手段の断面図
【図１２】同実施例１の他の食器洗い機の要部断面図
【図１３】本発明の実施例２の食器洗い機の分水手段の弁体の上面図
【図１４】同食器洗い機の分水手段の近接部に異物が挟まった状態の概略図
【図１５】同食器洗い機の分水手段の近接部から異物が外れる状態の概略図
【図１６】同食器洗い機の分水手段の凸部と頂部の関係を示す部分側面図
【図１７】同食器洗い機の分水手段の凸部と頂部の関係を示す部分側面図
【図１８】本発明の実施例３の食器洗い機の分水手段の弁体の上面図
【図１９】同食器洗い機の他の分水手段の弁体の上面図
【図２０】本発明の実施例４の食器洗い機の残水が残った状態の分水手段の断面図
【図２１】本発明の実施例５の食器洗い機の給水状態の分水手段の断面図
【図２２】従来の食器洗い機の要部断面図
【図２３】同食器洗い機の分水手段の断面図
【符号の説明】
２６洗浄ポンプ
２７洗浄ノズル（洗浄手段）
３２排水ポンプ（排水手段）
３７分水手段
３８流入部
４０ケーシング
４１弁体
６０軸部
６１穴部
６２付勢手段（コイルばね）
６３凸部（近接部）
６４頂部
６５凹部[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a dishwasher for cleaning by spraying washing water onto the tableware.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, this type of dishwasher has a configuration as shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Hereinafter, the configuration will be described.
[0003]
As shown in FIG. 22, the cleaning pump 1 for pressurizing the cleaning water, a plurality of cleaning means 2 having an injection port for injecting the cleaning water, and the cleaning means 2 to which the cleaning water from the cleaning pump 1 is supplied are switched. As shown in FIG. 23, the water splitting means 3 includes a cylindrical valve body 5 having substantially the same diameter inside a cylindrical casing 4 having a plurality of discharge ports, as shown in FIG. The body 5 is rotated by the driving motor 6, and the cleaning water discharged from the discharge port 7 of the valve body 5 is sequentially supplied to the cleaning means 2 and sprayed.
[0004]
As a result, the number of cleaning means 2 can be increased without increasing the amount of water supply (circulated water amount), and the cleaning water can be sprayed from multiple directions to the object to be cleaned. Shortening, energy saving, and water saving.
[0005]
[Patent Document 1]
JP 2001-218721 A
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the conventional water distribution means of the dishwasher has a structure in which the casing 4 and the valve body 5 having substantially the same diameter are moved in close proximity to each other, and foreign matters such as residues that circulate with the cleaning water enter the gaps. Even in the case of entering, it is necessary to rotate the valve body 5 with a powerful driving motor 6 in order to reliably rotate the valve body 5.
[0007]
In the present invention, in order to realize an inexpensive and small-sized water distribution means, the valve body 5 is moved by fluctuation of the flow in the casing 4 due to operation and stop of the cleaning pump 1 without using the driving motor 6. This configuration has a small force to rotate the valve body. If the conventional configuration is used as it is, there is a possibility that the rotation of the valve body 5 may become impossible when a foreign object is caught in the outer peripheral portion of the valve body 5. Was. If it becomes like this, cleaning water will be injected only from the same washing | cleaning means 2, and it will become impossible to wash | clean the whole inside of a washing tank.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the conventional problem, the dishwasher according to the present invention has a valve body, By intermittent operation of the washing pump With moving configuration and casing or Said A shaft part provided on one side of the valve body and a hole part provided on the other side are rotatably fitted. A plurality of proximity portions are provided in a fitting portion between the shaft portion and the hole portion, and the proximity portion is configured by providing a streak-like convex portion extending in an axial direction on an outer peripheral portion of the shaft portion, and the valve body A pair of lower engaging portions that rotate the valve body by a predetermined angle when the valve body is lowered are respectively installed outside the shaft portion and the hole portion, and the cleaning pump is operated so that cleaning water flows through the casing and the valve body Is raised, the convex part of the shaft part is made to oppose between the adjacent top parts of the lower engaging part provided on the hole part side. Is.
[0009]
As a result, the valve body and the casing move relative to each other while the shaft part and the hole part at the center of rotation are close to or in contact with each other. Thus, the probability that a foreign object is caught becomes small. In addition, even if foreign matter enters the gap, the force to rotate against it is minimal, so even if the force to rotate the valve body is small, such as moving the valve body due to flow fluctuations in the casing The possibility that the valve body cannot be rotated by a foreign object is almost eliminated.
[0010]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The invention according to claim 1 of the present invention is a cleaning pump for pressurizing cleaning water, a plurality of cleaning means having an injection port for injecting cleaning water, and a cleaning means to which cleaning water is supplied from the cleaning pump. The water distribution means has a casing and a valve body for switching the flow of the washing water, and the valve body Intermittent operation of washing pump The shaft portion provided in either the casing or the valve body and the hole portion provided in the other are rotatably fitted. A plurality of proximity portions are provided in a fitting portion between the shaft portion and the hole portion, and the proximity portion is configured by providing a streak-like convex portion extending in an axial direction on an outer peripheral portion of the shaft portion, and the valve body A pair of lower engaging portions that rotate the valve body by a predetermined angle when the valve body is lowered are respectively installed outside the shaft portion and the hole portion, and the cleaning pump is operated so that cleaning water flows through the casing and the valve body Is raised, the convex part of the shaft part is made to oppose between the adjacent top parts of the lower engaging part provided on the hole part side. The valve body and casing move relative to each other while the shaft and hole near the center are close to or in contact with each other. , The probability of foreign objects getting caught is reduced.
[0011]
In addition, even if foreign matter enters the gap, the force to rotate against it is minimal, so even if the force to rotate the valve body is small, such as moving the valve body due to flow fluctuations in the casing The possibility that the valve body cannot be rotated by a foreign object is almost eliminated. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the water distribution means from being switched due to foreign matters and prevent the entire cleaning tank from being cleaned, and a highly reliable device can be provided.
[0012]
The invention according to claim 2 is the invention according to claim 1. ,next to A space portion larger than the adjacent portion is formed between the adjacent adjacent portions. Since the shaft portion and the hole portion are in contact with only a plurality of adjacent portions, the foreign matter is more difficult to be caught and is once caught. Since the foreign matter is easily removed by a slight movement of the valve body, it is possible to avoid a situation where the foreign matter is clogged and the valve body cannot be switched.
[0013]
Claim 3 The invention described in claim 1 In the invention described in the above, the concave portion is provided between the adjacent apexes of the engaging portion provided on the hole side, and the convex portion and the concave portion are opposed to each other. The possibility of being caught is completely eliminated.
[0014]
Claim 4 In the invention described in claim 1, in the invention described in claim 1, the center of the inflow portion into which the cleaning water flows into the casing is offset from the rotation center portion of the valve body toward the outer peripheral side. A swirling flow around the casing is generated, and foreign matters such as a residue having a specific gravity larger than the water occupying most of the foreign matter move to the outer peripheral side of the casing by the swirling flow. For this reason, there is a tendency for the foreign matter to move away from the shaft portion and the hole portion located near the center of the casing, and the probability that the foreign matter is caught in the gap between the shaft portion and the hole portion can be reduced.
[0015]
Claim 5 The invention described in claim 1 In the described invention, when the flow of washing water is stopped or reduced, the valve body is configured to rotate with the start of movement, and even when a foreign object is caught in the proximity portion, the valve body is moved with the start of movement. If the rotating operation is performed, the foreign matter moves to a wide space between the proximity portion and can be reliably removed.
[0016]
Claim 6 The invention described in claim 1 In the invention described in the above, the fitted shaft portion and hole portion, or proximity portion is provided above the level of the wash water remaining after the drainage operation by the drainage means. Since it is not affected at all by foreign matter or oil remaining in the water, a situation in which switching cannot be performed at the next operation does not occur.
[0017]
Claim 7 The invention described in claim 1 In the invention described in (1), the fitted shaft portion and hole portion, or proximity portion is provided at a position to be submerged in the cleaning water in a state where water is supplied up to the rated cleaning water level, and the casing is used to move the valve body. When the internal flow is changed, the foreign matter hardly passes through the gap between the fitted shaft portion and the hole portion or the proximity portion, and the reliability with respect to the foreign matter is improved.
[0018]
Claim 8 The invention described in claim 1 When the flow of the washing water is stopped or reduced, the apparatus is provided with a biasing means that applies a biasing force in the direction in which the valve body moves. Since the pump pressure does not act on the movement of the valve body, the driving force is only the weight of the valve body, but by applying an urging force in this direction, the valve body can be easily moved even when foreign objects are caught. Reliability is further improved.
[0019]
【Example】
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
[0020]
Example 1
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the dishwasher main body 20 is provided with a washing tub 22 that can be opened and closed by a door 21, and an object to be cleaned 23 such as tableware is set in a tableware basket 24 and accommodated in the washing tub 22. is doing. A cleaning pump 26 pressurizes the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 22 supplied via a water supply valve (not shown), and supplies the cleaning water to a cleaning nozzle (cleaning means) 27 provided with a plurality of injection holes for cleaning. Washing water is jetted from the means 27. The cleaning means 27 is installed at three locations, 27a and 27b that are sprayed from below the table basket 24, and 27c that is sprayed from the back surface. The cleaning means 27a and 27b are rotating nozzles that rotate around an axis by a jet, and cleaning means. Reference numeral 27c denotes a fixed nozzle that does not move, and each cleaning means 27 is provided with about 4 to 10 injection ports for injecting cleaning water.
[0021]
The bottom of the cleaning tank 22 has a drain port 28 communicating with the suction side of the cleaning pump 26. The drain port 28 is provided with a residue filter 29 for collecting residue and a heating element 30 for heating. A temperature sensor 31 for detecting the temperature of the tank 22 is provided. The drainage pump 32 discharges the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 22. The blower 33 (not shown) sends air to the cleaning tank 22 through the blower passage 34 (not shown) and discharges the exhaust from the exhaust port 35.
[0022]
The discharge path 36 of the cleaning pump 26 is provided with a water distribution means 37 for selectively switching the cleaning means 27 for supplying the cleaning water. The water distribution means 37 has the structure shown in FIGS. ing. The inflow part 38 into which the wash water pressurized by the cleaning pump 26 flows, a casing 40 having four outflow parts 39, and a valve body 41 movably provided in the casing 40 are configured. Is provided with an opening 42 through which washing water passes. A set of upper engaging portions 44 that rotate the valve body 41 by a predetermined angle when the valve body 41 is raised, and a set of lower engaging portions 45 that rotate the valve body 41 by a predetermined angle when the valve body 41 is lowered. Are respectively installed on the casing 40 side and the valve body 41 side.
[0023]
The casing 40 is provided with a shaft portion 60, and the valve body 41 is provided with a hole portion 61 that fits with the shaft portion 60, and the clearance between the shaft portion 60 and the hole portion 61 is larger than the clearance around the outer periphery of the valve body 41. Is set to be smaller. Further, the center A of the inflow portion 38 to the casing 40 is provided by being displaced by a distance C on the outer peripheral side from the rotation center B (shaft portion 60) of the valve body 41.
[0024]
Here, there is no drive means for moving the valve body 41 for switching the cleaning water, and the structure is moved by fluctuations in the flow in the casing 40, for example, the operation and stop of the cleaning pump 26, the strength of the pump output, etc. It is.
[0025]
FIG. 5 is a view as seen from the lower side of the valve body 41. The outflow portions 39 are each connected to the cleaning means 27 by the cleaning path 43, and among these, the cleaning path 43 is connected to the outflow portions 39a and 39c. Are connected together and connected to the cleaning means 27a.
[0026]
3 and the like are conceptual diagrams of the water diversion means 37. In actuality, the casing 40 is divided into two parts in the vertical direction and is joined by screwing, fitting, welding, welding, or the like. Further, when the cleaning tank 22 is made of resin, a part of the casing 40 can be formed integrally with the bottom surface of the cleaning tank 22.
[0027]
In the above configuration, first, the basic operation of the dishwasher will be described. An object to be cleaned 23 such as tableware is set in a tableware basket 24 and stored in the washing tub 22. After the detergent is introduced, the door 21 closes the opening of the tableware washing machine body 20 and starts operation. A cleaning process for removing dirt on the object to be cleaned 23, a rinsing process for pouring the attached detergent and leftovers, and a drying process for drying the water suitable for the object to be cleaned 23 are performed in this order.
[0028]
First, the water supply valve is operated to supply a predetermined amount of cleaning water to the cleaning tank 22, and then the cleaning water is pressurized by the cleaning pump 26, and the cleaning water 27 is jetted from the cleaning means 27. At this time, the heating process is performed while heating the heating water by energizing the heating element 30 such as a sheathed heater provided in the cleaning tank 22. Further, the temperature sensor 31 detects the temperature of the cleaning tank 22 and stops the energization of the heating element 30 when the temperature becomes higher than a predetermined temperature.
[0029]
The cleaning water passes through the residual filter 29 and is sucked into the cleaning pump 26, supplied from the cleaning pump 26 to the cleaning means 27 provided in the cleaning tank 22, and sprayed into the cleaning tank 22, thereby cleaning the object 23 to be cleaned. After cleaning, it circulates along the route of returning to the drain port 28 again. At this time, the residue or the like dropped off from the object to be cleaned 23 flows into the residue filter 29 together with the cleaning water, and the residue having a size that cannot pass through the residue filter 29 is collected by the residue filter 29.
[0030]
When the cleaning process for a predetermined time is finished, the cleaning water containing dirt is discharged out of the apparatus by the drain pump 32, and the cleaning water is newly supplied. The washing pump 26 is operated, and washing water is again sprayed from the washing nozzle 27 to rinse the article 23 to be washed, such as detergent and leftovers. After the operation for a predetermined time, the operation of discharging the cleaning water and supplying the cleaning water again is repeated, and this rinsing process is continuously performed about three times. Finally, the washing water is discharged outside the apparatus, and the rinsing process is completed.
[0031]
Subsequently, by performing a drying process and operating the blower, the outside air is blown into the cleaning tank 22 through the blower path and is discharged from the exhaust port 35. At this time, the heating element 30 is energized, and evaporation of water droplets adhering to the object to be cleaned 23 is promoted by the effects of both air blowing and temperature. These drying steps are performed for a predetermined time, and the operation is terminated.
[0032]
Next, the operation and action of the water distribution means 37, which is a characteristic configuration of the present embodiment, will be described. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the casing 40 has a substantially cylindrical shape, the axial direction of which is arranged in a substantially vertical direction, and the inflow portion 38 into which the cleaning water pressurized by the cleaning pump 26 flows is a casing. The outflow part 39 is installed on the upper surface of the casing 40 at the lower end part of 40. The opposed surfaces of the outflow portion 39 and the valve body 41 are planar, and a sealing surface is provided to prevent the cleaning water from flowing except for the opening 42.
[0033]
When the cleaning pump 26 is operated, the valve body 41 is lifted by an operation with substantially linear motion and rotation according to the inclination of the upper engagement portion 44 due to the flow (pressure) of the cleaning water flowing in from the inflow portion 38. As shown in FIG. 3, cleaning water is jetted from the cleaning means 27 that is fixed at a position where a predetermined outflow portion 39 is opened and communicated with the outflow portion 39. When viewed from the lower side of the valve body 41, as shown in FIG. 5, the upper engaging portion 44 so that the opening 42 provided at the position where the washing water passes through the valve body 41 coincides with the predetermined outflow portion 39. Is set. (Details of the engaging portion are not shown in the sectional view, see FIG. 7).
[0034]
Subsequently, once the washing pump 26 is stopped, the pressure that has pushed up the valve body 41 from below does not act, so the valve body 41 falls by its own weight, but at this time, according to the inclination of the lower engagement portion 45 The robot descends while rotating and stops at a predetermined position as shown in FIG. When the cleaning pump 26 is operated again, it is engaged with the next inclination of the upper engaging portion 44, the valve body 41 rises while rotating, stops at the next predetermined position, and the cleaning water is supplied from the next cleaning means 27. Spray.
[0035]
FIG. 7A shows the relationship between the circular upper engaging portion 44 and the lower engaging portion 45 extended to a plane, and the vertical direction is obtained by repeating the operation and stop of the cleaning pump 26. The position of the valve element 41 is sequentially switched while performing an operation combining the substantially linear motion and the rotational motion. In this embodiment, since the valve body 41 is rotated 90 degrees by one stop and operation in order to switch to the four outflow portions 39, any number of divisions are possible.
[0036]
The upper engagement portion 44 and the lower engagement portion 45 are not limited to this configuration, and when the cleaning pump 26 is operated intermittently, a predetermined outflow portion 39 is operated during the operation of the cleaning pump 26. And the opening 42 of the valve body 41 may coincide with each other. For example, the valve body 41 hardly rotates when the valve body 41 is lowered, and rotates about 90 degrees when the valve body 41 is lifted. The structure which does not rotate may be sufficient.
[0037]
Since the valve body 41 is rotated 90 degrees from the position shown in FIG. 5 by stopping and operating the cleaning pump 26, the cleaning means 27 for injecting the cleaning water by operating the cleaning pump 26 intermittently is 27a → 27b. Switching in the order of → 27a → 27c. This is one cycle of switching in which the valve body 41 makes a round, and the injection continues while repeating this injection pattern.
[0038]
By these actions, the cleaning water is not supplied to the three cleaning means 27 at the same time, but the cleaning water is sequentially sent to one or two cleaning means 27, so that there is little increase in the amount of water supply. With the amount of water, the cleaning water can be sprayed from a plurality of directions to any object to be cleaned 23. Therefore, it is possible to clean the contaminants adhering to the object 23 to be cleaned in a short time, and it is possible to realize highly efficient cleaning.
[0039]
In addition, since the cleaning water can be sprayed from multiple directions to the object to be cleaned 23, the user can set the position of the object to be cleaned 23 on the tableware basket 24 and the setting method such as the vertical placement and the face down placement. Since it can be set freely without choosing, it can be a dishwasher with better setability. Furthermore, sufficient cleaning performance can be exerted even for tableware such as a bowl, a deep small bowl, a bowl, etc., in which washing water is not sufficiently delivered by spraying from a single direction.
[0040]
In the present invention, in order to switch the cleaning means 27 to which the cleaning water is sprayed, a dedicated drive means such as a three-way valve or an electric motor is not required, and an inexpensive and small-sized water distribution means 37 can be provided. In the case of motor drive, the rotating shaft needs to be installed through the casing 40, and it is necessary to provide a dense sealing means. At the same time, the structure becomes complicated. Although there was a possibility of causing water leakage to the outside, in this configuration, there is no part that operates through the casing 40, and there is no possibility of causing water leakage to the outside.
[0041]
In dishwashers, tap water is not simply circulated, but wash water with foreign matter such as residue is circulated. Although the residue is collected by the residue filter 29, foreign matters smaller than the filter size pass through, so that a water diversion means 37 that does not clog these foreign matters is required. In the present invention, as shown in FIG. 3, the hole portion 61 provided in the valve body 41 is inserted into the shaft portion 60 provided in the casing 40, and the hole portion 60 and the shaft portion 61 are close to or in contact with each other. The operation of the valve body 41 in the vertical movement and rotation is restricted.
[0042]
For example, when the outer diameter of the valve body 41 is 100 mm and the diameter of the shaft portion 61 is 5 mm, the relative area (circumferential length) is about 1/20 that of the case where the valve body 41 moves relative to the outer peripheral portion. It is very small, and the probability of foreign objects getting caught is small. In addition, even if foreign matter enters the gap, the force (rotational torque) required to rotate against the foreign matter is also only about 1/20, and the casing 40 can be used without using dedicated drive means. Even when the force for rotating the valve body 41 is small, such as moving the valve body 41 due to fluctuations in the flow of the valve, there is almost no possibility that the valve body 41 will be unable to rotate due to foreign matter. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the water diversion means 37 from being switched by the foreign matter and prevent the entire cleaning tank 22 from being cleaned, and it is possible to provide a highly reliable device.
[0043]
As shown in FIG. 4, the center A of the inflow portion 38 into which the cleaning water flows into the casing 40 is offset by a distance C from the rotation center portion B of the valve body 41 to the outer peripheral side. A swirling flow is generated inside, and the foreign matter having a specific gravity greater than that of water occupying most of the foreign matter moves to the outer peripheral side of the casing 40 by the centrifugal action of the swirling flow. For this reason, there is a tendency for foreign matter to move away from the shaft portion 60 and the hole portion 61 located near the center of the casing 40, and the probability that the foreign matter is caught in the gap between the shaft portion 60 and the hole portion 61 can be further reduced.
[0044]
The pressure of the washing water acts on the upward movement of the valve body 41, and the inside of the casing 40 is normally pressurized to about 20 to 40 kPa. Therefore, depending on the size of the valve body 41, 20 to 100N Since a large force acts on the valve body 41, the valve body 41 can be moved even if a foreign object is caught somewhat. However, only the dead weight of the valve body 41 acts on the lowering of the valve body 41, and the propulsive force is small. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 8, the spring material acts on the valve body as the urging means 62 that acts in the direction in which the valve body 41 moves away from the outflow portion 39, so that the valve body 41 can be sufficiently obtained even when foreign matter is caught. Can be moved, and switching reliability can be improved.
[0045]
In addition to the action of the coil spring as shown in FIG. 8, other spring materials such as a leaf spring are used, an elastic body such as rubber is used, or the weight of the valve body 41 is increased. The same effect can also be obtained by fixing a separate metal body to the valve body 41 or inserting and molding it. In addition, a configuration in which a magnet or a magnetic body is installed on the valve body 41 and the valve body 41 is urged downward using a magnetic force is also conceivable.
[0046]
In addition, about the shape of the axial part 60 and the hole part 61, it is not limited to the shape of FIG. 3, The thing which cut | disconnected the axial part 60 like FIG. 9, or the hole part 61 like FIG. Various configurations are envisaged, such as a closed hole that does not penetrate, or a casing 40 and a hole 61 as shown in FIG. 11 and a shaft 60 provided on the valve body 41. Sex is obtained.
[0047]
Although the number of cleaning means is three and the spray pattern is set as 27a → 27b → 27a → 27c, it is not limited to the number of the cleaning means 27 or the spray pattern, and the arrangement of the objects to be cleaned 23, etc. Various combinations can be considered according to the above, and the effect can be exhibited. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, four cleaning means 27 are provided, two on the bottom surface of the cleaning tank (27a, 27b), one on the right top surface (27c), and one on the left side (27d), In the case of sequentially injecting cleaning water from the four cleaning means 27, it is only necessary to perform appropriate injection according to the shape of the main body, the arrangement of the tableware, and the like.
[0048]
If the number of the cleaning means 27 is two or more, the effect is exhibited. However, it is important to improve the cleaning performance that the spraying from two or more directions can be obtained with respect to an object 23 to be cleaned. When the washing tank 22 has a substantially cubic shape, it is desirable to have two or more locations, and when the cleaning tank 22 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, it is desirable to have three or more locations. On the other hand, if the number of branches is too large, the total amount of water sprayed from one cleaning means 27 becomes small and the cleaning effect is diminished, so it is desirable that the number is 10 or less, preferably 6 or less.
[0049]
The washing pump 26 is configured to repeat operation and stop. However, when using a pump that can vary the pump output, such as a washing pump using an inverter motor, the strength of the pump output is used. Thus, the valve body 41 can be switched. If the output at the time of weakness is set to be equal to or less than the output at which the valve element 41 is separated from the outflow portion 39, the pump can be switched and the number of times of operation and stoppage is reduced. It also leads to In addition, by changing the output of the injection for each cleaning nozzle 27 to be injected, it is possible to perform arbitrary injection according to the level of dirt.
[0050]
The present invention relates to a washing water switching method, and does not limit the shape and size of the dishwasher body 20, the opening and closing method of the door 21, the arrangement of the objects to be cleaned 23, the arrangement of individual components, and the like. . Moreover, in Example 1, although the example of the dishwasher which has a drying function was shown, the same effect is acquired also in the dishwasher which does not accompany a drying function.
[0051]
(Example 2)
FIG. 13 is a view of the valve body 41 as viewed from above, and the shaft portion 60 protruding from the bottom of the casing 40 is provided with a line-like convex portion 63 in the axial direction thereof. Other basic configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.
[0052]
As in the first embodiment, the valve body 41 moves up and down by repeating the operation and stop of the cleaning pump 26, and the cleaning means 27 for sequentially injecting the cleaning water is switched by rotating 90 degrees. The valve body 41 rotates and linearly moves while the shaft portion 60 and the hole portion 61 are in contact with or close to each other with the four convex portions 63 provided as proximity portions. Since there is a larger space between the proximity part (convex part) 63 and the proximity part (convex part) 63, the possibility of foreign matter being caught is only four points in the proximity part. It becomes difficult to get caught.
[0053]
The foreign substance D once pinched as shown in FIG. 14 is slightly removed as shown in FIG. 15 but is easily removed. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the valve body 41 cannot be switched due to clogging of the foreign substance. As shown in FIG. 7B, the upper engagement portion 44 is set so that the valve element 41 rotates when the flow of the washing water is stopped or reduced (moves obliquely as indicated by an arrow) when the movement starts. Then, as shown in FIG. 15, the foreign substance D moves to a wide space between the proximity part (convex part) 63 and the proximity part (convex part) 63 and can be reliably removed.
[0054]
If the gap between the adjacent proximate portions 63 is set larger than the size of the residual filter 29, foreign matter clogging can be avoided more reliably. Usually, the residual filter 29 is formed of a punching metal or the like and may be set larger than the hole diameter (about 1 mm or 2 mm). However, when there are a detachable filter and a fixed filter, It is desirable to set a gap larger than the size of the fixed filter.
[0055]
Further, a pair of lower engaging portions 45 are respectively installed on the outer peripheral sides of the shaft portion 60 and the hole portion 61, and the cleaning pump 26 is operated and the cleaning water passes as shown in FIG. At the position of the valve body 41, the convex portion 63 is disposed so as to face between the adjacent top portions 64 of the lower engaging portion 45 provided on the valve body 41 side. The engaging portion 45 has a triangular shape as shown in the figure, and since the engaging portions 45 and the space are alternately present, the foreign matter rides on the flow in the casing 40 and the foreign matter moves from the space portion to the shaft of the engaging portion 45. There is a high possibility of entering between the parts 60. If the top part 64 and the convex part 63 coincide, the possibility that foreign matter will be caught in the gap increases, but by making the convex part 63 face between the adjacent top parts 64, the opposing area becomes smaller, and the gap The catch of foreign matter can be reduced.
[0056]
Further, as shown in FIG. 17, a concave portion 65 having no inclination is provided between the adjacent top portion 64 and the top portion 64, and the concave portion 65 and the convex portion 63 are opposed to each other, so that the shaft portion 60 and the lower engaging portion 45 are opposed to each other. The clogging of foreign matter between them can be completely avoided. In this case, if the number of the convex portions 63 and the number of the top portions 64 of the engaging portions 45 are matched, the relationship between all the convex portions 63 becomes the same condition, and thus the stability against foreign matter is further enhanced.
[0057]
(Example 3)
FIG. 18 is a view of the valve body 41 as viewed from above. The casing 40 and the valve body 41 have a substantially circular shape, and a plurality of convex portions (proximity portions) 63 are provided on the outer peripheral portion of the valve body 41.
[0058]
The valve body 41 and the casing 40 are configured to regulate the operation of the valve body 41 by contacting or approaching with a convex portion (proximity portion) 63 provided on the outer periphery of the valve body 41. A larger space is provided between 63. Since the casing 40 and the valve body 41 are close to each other only by the proximity portion 63, the area where the foreign matter is caught is reduced, and the reliability of the foreign matter can be improved.
[0059]
Further, as in the second embodiment, the foreign matter once pinched by the proximity portion 63 can be easily removed only by the rotation of the valve body 41, so that the situation in which the valve body 41 cannot be switched due to clogging of the foreign matter can be avoided. . Further, when the flow of the cleaning water is stopped or reduced, the valve body 41 is configured to rotate as the movement starts, so that even if a foreign object is caught in the proximity part 63, the foreign substance is in the proximity part 63 and the proximity part 63. Therefore, it is possible to surely move to and remove the wide space between the two, so that a situation in which switching cannot be performed by a foreign object can be substantially avoided.
[0060]
If the gap between the adjacent proximate portions 63 is set larger than the size of the residual filter 29, foreign matter clogging can be avoided more reliably. Usually, the residual filter 29 is formed of a punching metal or the like and may be set larger than the hole diameter (about 1 mm or 2 mm). However, when there are a detachable filter and a fixed filter, It is desirable to set a gap larger than the size of the fixed filter.
[0061]
In addition, the same effect is acquired even if the convex part 63 is provided in the casing 40 side instead of the valve body 41 side. Further, the proximity portion is not limited to the convex portion 63, and various shapes can be assumed such as the valve body 41 is configured in an elliptical shape as shown in FIG.
[0062]
Example 4
FIG. 20 is a view in the casing 40 in a state where water is drained by the drainage pump 32 which is the drainage means, and the fitted shaft portion 60 and the hole portion 61 (proximity portion) are subjected to the drainage operation by the drainage means 32. It is installed so as to be located above the water level F of the remaining washing water. Other basic configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.
[0063]
As a drainage means, a drainage pump 32 is generally used, and there are various types such as being provided separately from the main cleaning pump 26 or integrally with the cleaning pump 26. In any case, the cleaning water in the cleaning path is used. It cannot be completely discharged out of the aircraft, leaving some residual water. When the operation is terminated normally, the last remaining water is clean, but depending on the type and amount of contamination, there may be oil or foreign matter remaining in the remaining water. For example, when a large amount of oil is introduced and the detergent is forgotten, the oil remains. If the proximity part with the smallest gap is immersed in the remaining water for a long time, the water will evaporate and the remaining oil will stick, and the valve body may become inoperable during the next operation. However, by installing it above the remaining water level, this sticking phenomenon can be avoided and reliable switching of water distribution can be maintained.
[0064]
(Example 5)
FIG. 21 is a view of the inside of the casing in a state where cleaning water is supplied to the rated position (water supply level G), and is provided with a shaft portion 60 and a hole portion 61 (proximity portion) fitted in a position where the cleaning water is submerged. ing. Other basic configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment.
[0065]
Similar to the first embodiment, the valve body 41 of the water diversion means 37 is switched by repeating the operation and stop of the cleaning pump 26. With the above configuration, the valve body 41 and the casing are started together with the start of the operation of the cleaning pump 26. Foreign matter can be prevented from entering the gap 40. When the fitted shaft portion 60 and the hole portion 61 (proximity portion) are not submerged in the water supply state, if the cleaning pump 26 is stopped, the cleaning water is discharged from the gap to form a space. Then, when the cleaning pump 26 is operated next, the cleaning water surely enters the gap, so there is a high possibility that foreign matter will enter along with the flow. However, since the valve body 41 moves together with the cleaning water if it is submerged even when the cleaning pump 26 is stopped, the cleaning water hardly passes through the gaps in the proximity. For this reason, it is possible to minimize the passage of foreign matter to the fitted shaft portion 60 and the hole portion 61 or the proximity portion, and the reliability with respect to the foreign matter can be improved.
[0066]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to suppress foreign matter from being caught in a gap in which the valve body and the casing that move relative to each other are in contact with each other or close to each other, and to prevent the diversion means from being switched. A high water diversion means can be provided.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an essential part of a dishwasher according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
[Fig. 2] Cross-sectional view of the main part of the dishwasher
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the water diversion means of the dishwasher when the washing pump is in operation.
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the water diversion means of the dishwasher.
FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the valve body of the water diversion means of the dishwasher.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the water washing means of the dishwasher when the washing pump is stopped.
7A is a detailed view of the engaging portion of the water diversion means of the dishwasher. FIG.
(B) Detailed view showing the moving direction of the valve body of the dishwasher
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a water distribution means provided with an urging means for the dishwasher
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another water diversion means of the same dishwasher
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another water diversion means of the same dishwasher
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another water diversion unit of the dishwasher
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of another dishwasher of the first embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a top view of the valve body of the water diversion means of the dishwasher according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a schematic view showing a state in which a foreign object is caught in the vicinity of the water dividing means of the dishwasher.
FIG. 15 is a schematic view showing a state in which foreign matter comes off from the vicinity of the water diversion means of the dishwasher.
FIG. 16 is a partial side view showing the relationship between the convex part and the top part of the water diversion means of the dishwasher.
FIG. 17 is a partial side view showing the relationship between the convex part and the top part of the water diversion means of the same dishwasher.
FIG. 18 is a top view of the valve body of the water diversion means of the dishwasher according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 19 is a top view of a valve body of another water diversion means of the same dishwasher.
FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a water distribution means in a state where residual water remains in the dishwasher according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 21 Example 5 of the present invention Cross-sectional view of water distribution means in the dishwasher water supply state
FIG. 22 is a sectional view of a main part of a conventional dishwasher.
FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the water diversion means of the dishwasher.
[Explanation of symbols]
26 Washing pump
27 Cleaning nozzle (cleaning means)
32 Drainage pump (drainage means)
37 Water diversion means
38 Inflow section
40 casing
41 Disc
60 Shaft
61 hole
62 Biasing means (coil spring)
63 Convex part (proximity part)
64 Top
65 recess

Claims

A cleaning pump for pressurizing the cleaning water, a plurality of cleaning means having an injection port for injecting the cleaning water, and a water distribution means for switching the cleaning means supplied with the cleaning water from the cleaning pump. The means includes a casing and a valve body that switches a flow of the washing water, and the valve body is configured to move by intermittent operation of the washing pump, and a shaft provided in either the casing or the valve body And a hole provided in the other is rotatably fitted , a plurality of proximity portions are provided in the fitting portion between the shaft portion and the hole portion, and the proximity portion extends in an axial direction on an outer peripheral portion of the shaft portion. The cleaning pump is configured by providing a line-shaped convex portion, and installing a pair of lower engaging portions that rotate the valve body by a predetermined angle when the valve body is lowered, outside the shaft portion and the hole portion, respectively. The valve body is operated by washing water flowing in the casing. Rise when you are, dishwasher made to face the convex portion of the shaft portion between adjacent top of the lower engaging portion provided on the bore side.

Between the adjacent portion in contact next, dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the formation of the larger space than its proximal part.

Bore side recesses between adjacent top portion of the engaging portion is provided which is provided, dishwasher of claim 1, wherein said concave and convex portions are opposed.

The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the center of the inflow portion into which the wash water flows into the casing is displaced to the outer peripheral side from the rotation center portion of the valve body.

When the flow of washing water is stopped or reduced, dishwasher of claim 1, wherein the valve body which is configured to operate rotating together with the initiating mobile.

Fitted shaft portion and the hole was, or proximity portion, Dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein provided above the water level of the remaining wash water after the drainage operation by draining means.

The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the fitted shaft portion and the hole portion, or the proximity portion are provided at a position where the shaft is submerged in the wash water in a state where water is supplied to the rated wash water level.

When wash water flows is stopped or reduced, the dishwashing machine according to claim 1, further comprising biasing means for acting an urging force in a direction in which the valve body is moved.