JP2012075601A - Washing and drying apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a washing and drying apparatus having a drainage system configured to reduce in manufacturing cost, size and weight of a washing and drying machine.SOLUTION: The washing and drying apparatus comprises: a washing and drying tank for washing and drying clothing; a circulation system for circulating dry air for drying the clothing; and a drainage system for draining washing water that has washed the clothing. The drainage system includes: a drainage conduit connected to the washing and drying tank; and a drainage valve for controlling draining of the washing water inside the drainage conduit. The circulation system includes: a dehumidification unit for removing a water content contained in the dry air; and a drain conduit for guiding the water content removed by the dehumidification unit to the drainage conduit arranged below the dehumidification unit.

Description

  The present invention relates to a washing / drying apparatus for washing and drying clothes.

  A washing / drying machine for washing and drying clothes typically includes a drainage system for draining a cleaning liquid used for washing and a circulation system for circulating dry air for drying the clothes. . The drainage system includes a discharge valve for controlling the discharge of the cleaning liquid. The discharge valve is opened as necessary, and the cleaning liquid is drained. Circulation systems often include a dehumidifier that removes water components from the dry air used to dry the garment.

  Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a laundry dryer in which a heat pump including a heat absorber that cools dry air and condenses water components contained in the dry air is incorporated. The heat absorber of the heat pump functions as the above dehumidifying device.

  According to Patent Documents 1 and 2, the washing and drying machine includes a dedicated drainage pump that causes the water component removed by the heat absorber to flow toward a drainage valve for controlling the drainage of the cleaning liquid. When the drainage valve is opened and the drainage pump is activated, the water component removed by the heat absorber is discharged together with the cleaning liquid.

JP 2005-52533 A JP 2006-218067 A

  The use of a dedicated drain pump not only increases the manufacturing cost of the laundry dryer, but also increases the size and weight of the laundry dryer.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a washing and drying apparatus including a drainage system constructed so as to reduce the manufacturing cost, the size and weight of the washing and drying machine.

  A washing / drying apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention drains a washing / drying tank for washing and drying clothes, a circulation system for circulating dry air for drying the clothes, and a washing liquid for washing the clothes. A drainage system, and the drainage system includes a drainage pipe connected to the washing / drying tub, and a drainage valve for controlling drainage of the cleaning liquid in the drainage pipe, The circulation system includes a dehumidifying unit that removes a water component contained in the dry air, and a drain pipe that guides the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit to a drain pipe disposed below the dehumidifying unit. And a road.

  According to the said structure, clothing is wash | cleaned and dried in a washing-drying tank. The circulation system circulates dry air for drying clothes. A drainage system for draining a washing liquid that has washed clothes includes a drainage pipe connected to the washing and drying tank and a drainage valve for controlling drainage of the washing liquid in the drainage pipe. The drainage pipe is disposed below the dehumidifying unit that removes the water component contained in the dry air. Therefore, the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is urged to the drain pipe while being guided to the drain pipe by the gravitational action. Therefore, discharge of the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is achieved without requiring a dedicated pump. Thus, a laundry drying device is provided that includes a drainage system constructed to reduce manufacturing costs, size and weight of the laundry dryer.

  In the above configuration, the circulation system includes an air supply device that circulates the dry air, a first conduit that guides the dry air from the washing / drying tub toward the air supply device, and the air supply device that A second pipe that guides the dry air toward the washing / drying tank, wherein the dehumidifying unit removes the water component from the dry air flowing in the first pipe, and the circulation system includes: Preferably, it includes a check valve attached to the drain line.

  According to the above configuration, the dry air travels from the washing / drying tank to the air feeding device through the first pipe, and then travels from the air feeding apparatus to the washing / drying tank through the second pipe. The air supply device causes circulation of dry air flowing in the washing / drying tank, the first pipe line, and the second pipe line. The operation of the air supply device creates a negative pressure environment that causes the flow of dry air toward the air supply device in the first duct. A check valve attached to the drain line that guides the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit to the drain line reduces the impact on the drain line of the negative pressure environment caused by the operation of the air supply device. Create a head that is large enough to maintain the flow of water components to the pipeline. Therefore, discharge of the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is achieved without requiring a dedicated pump. Thus, a laundry drying device is provided that includes a drainage system constructed to reduce manufacturing costs, size and weight of the laundry dryer.

  In the above configuration, the first pipe line includes a support element that supports the dehumidification unit, and the support element is removed by the dehumidification unit toward the discharge port connected to the drain pipe and the discharge port. A main inclined surface inclined so as to guide the water component formed, a first inclined surface formed below the dehumidifying unit, and protruding between the main inclined surface and the first inclined surface; A support wall that supports a unit, and the first inclined surface is inclined so that the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit flows toward the main inclined surface, It is preferable that a first notch that allows the water component to flow from the first inclined surface to the main inclined surface is formed.

  According to the above configuration, the support element that supports the dehumidification unit includes a discharge port connected to the drain line, and a main inclined surface that is inclined so as to guide the water component removed by the dehumidification unit toward the discharge port. A first inclined surface formed below the dehumidifying unit, and a support wall that protrudes between the main inclined surface and the first inclined surface and supports the dehumidifying unit. The water component removed by the dehumidifying unit falls on the first inclined surface by the gravitational action. Since the first inclined surface is inclined so that the water component removed by the dehumidification unit flows toward the main inclined surface, the water component on the first inclined surface flows toward the main inclined surface. Since the support wall is formed with a first notch that allows the flow of the water component from the first inclined surface to the main inclined surface, the water component reaches the main inclined surface through the first notch. Thereafter, the water component flows on the main inclined surface inclined so as to guide the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit toward the discharge port, and flows into the drain pipe line through the discharge port. Therefore, discharge of the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is achieved without requiring a dedicated pump. Thus, a laundry drying device is provided that includes a drainage system constructed to reduce manufacturing costs, size and weight of the laundry dryer.

  In the above configuration, the first conduit includes a connection pipe that connects the washing / drying tub and the support element, and the support element that supports the air feeding device has an opening connected to the connection pipe. The dehumidifying unit includes a first dehumidifying part facing the opening, and a second dehumidifying part adjacent to the first dehumidifying part, and the second dehumidifying part includes: It is preferable that the first inclined surface faces the air supply device and is inclined so that the water component removed by the second dehumidifying part flows toward the lower side of the first dehumidifying part.

  According to the said structure, a 1st pipe line contains the connection pipe which connects a washing-drying tank and a support element. The support element that supports the air supply device includes a connection wall in which an opening connected to the connection pipe is formed. The dehumidifying unit includes a first dehumidifying part that faces the opening, and a second dehumidifying part that is adjacent to the first dehumidifying part. The second dehumidifying unit faces the air supply device. Therefore, the dry air which goes to an air supply apparatus from an opening part crosses a dehumidification unit diagonally. As a result, a relatively long period for the dry air to pass through the dehumidifying unit is ensured, and the dehumidifying effect on the dry air is increased. A 1st inclined surface inclines so that the water component removed in the 2nd dehumidification part may flow toward the downward direction of a 1st dehumidification part. Therefore, a water component accumulates below the first dehumidifying portion that is not easily affected by the flow of dry air that obliquely crosses the dehumidifying unit from the opening toward the air supply device. Thus, the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is less likely to be rolled up toward the air supply device.

  In the above configuration, the support element includes a first partition wall that partitions the first inclined surface into a first upstream inclined surface and a first downstream inclined surface that is further away from the connection wall than the first upstream inclined surface. The first partition wall is formed with a second notch that allows the water component to flow from the first upstream inclined surface to the first downstream inclined surface in the vicinity of the support wall; It is preferable that the 1 notch part allows the water component to flow from the first downstream inclined surface to the main inclined surface.

  According to the above configuration, the support element includes the first partition wall that partitions the first inclined surface into the first upstream inclined surface and the first downstream inclined surface that is further away from the connection wall than the first upstream inclined surface. Since the first upstream inclined surface is inclined so that the water component removed by the second dehumidifying portion flows downwardly of the first dehumidifying portion, the water component dropped from the dehumidifying unit to the first upstream inclined surface is supported. Head to the wall. A 1st partition wall suppresses that the water component which flows on a 1st upstream inclined surface is wound up by the flow of the dry air which goes to an air supply apparatus. In the vicinity of the support wall, a second notch is formed in the first partition wall. The water component flows from the first upstream inclined surface toward the first downstream inclined surface through the second notch, and further flows from the first downstream inclined surface to the main inclined surface through the first notch. Thereafter, the water component flows on the main inclined surface inclined so as to guide the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit toward the discharge port, and flows into the drain pipe line through the discharge port. Therefore, discharge of the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is achieved without requiring a dedicated pump. Thus, a laundry drying device is provided that includes a drainage system constructed to reduce manufacturing costs, size and weight of the laundry dryer.

  In the above configuration, the apparatus further includes a heating unit that heats the dry air, the support wall supports a heating unit disposed between the dehumidification unit and the air supply device, and the support element includes the heating element. A second inclined surface formed below the unit, wherein the second inclined surface is inclined so that the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit flows toward the main inclined surface; It is preferable that a third cutout portion that allows the water component to flow from the second inclined surface to the main inclined surface is formed in the support wall that partitions between the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface.

  According to the said structure, a heating unit heats dry air. Therefore, the drying effect with respect to clothes by the dry air which flows into a washing-drying tank through a 2nd pipe line improves. The support wall supports a heating unit disposed between the dehumidifying unit and the air supply device. The support element includes a second inclined surface formed below the heating unit. The second inclined surface receives the water component that has reached the heating unit from the dehumidifying unit while riding the flow of dry air toward the air supply device. Thereafter, the water component flows on the second inclined surface toward the main inclined surface. The support wall that partitions the main inclined surface and the second inclined surface is formed with a third notch that allows the water component to flow from the second inclined surface to the main inclined surface. The water component flows from the second inclined surface toward the main inclined surface through the third notch. Thereafter, the water component flows on the main inclined surface inclined so as to guide the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit toward the discharge port, and flows into the drain pipe line through the discharge port. Therefore, discharge of the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is achieved without requiring a dedicated pump. Thus, a laundry drying device is provided that includes a drainage system constructed to reduce manufacturing costs, size and weight of the laundry dryer.

  The said structure WHEREIN: The said heating unit contains the 1st heating part adjacent to the said 1st dehumidification part, and the 2nd heating part adjacent to the said 2nd dehumidification part, The said 2nd inclined surface is a said 2nd inclined surface. It is preferable to incline so that the water component located below the heating unit flows downward from the first heating unit.

  According to the above configuration, the first heating unit of the heating unit is adjacent to the first dehumidifying unit. The second heating unit of the heating unit is adjacent to the second dehumidifying unit. Therefore, the dry air heading from the opening to the air supply device crosses the heating unit diagonally. As a result, a relatively long period for the dry air to pass through the heating unit is ensured, and the heating effect on the dry air is increased. The second inclined surface is inclined so that the water component located below the second heating part flows toward the lower side of the first heating part. Therefore, a water component accumulates below the first heating unit that is not easily affected by the flow of dry air that obliquely crosses the heating unit from the opening toward the air supply device. Thus, the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is less likely to be rolled up toward the air supply device.

  In the above configuration, the support element includes a second partition wall that divides the second inclined surface into a second upstream inclined surface and a second downstream inclined surface closer to the air supply device than the second upstream inclined surface. The second partition wall is formed with a fourth notch that allows the water component to flow from the second upstream inclined surface to the second downstream inclined surface in the vicinity of the support wall; The four cutouts preferably allow the water component to flow from the second downstream inclined surface to the main inclined surface.

  According to the above configuration, the support element includes the second partition wall that partitions the second inclined surface into the second upstream inclined surface and the second downstream inclined surface that is further away from the connection wall than the second upstream inclined surface. Since the second upstream inclined surface is inclined so that the water component located below the second heating unit flows toward the lower side of the first heating unit, the water component dropped from the heating unit to the second upstream inclined surface is Head to the support wall. A 2nd partition wall suppresses that the water component which flows on a 2nd upstream inclined surface is wound up by the flow of the dry air which goes to an air supply apparatus. A fourth cutout is formed in the second partition wall in the vicinity of the support wall. The water component flows from the second upstream inclined surface to the second downstream inclined surface through the fourth notch, and further flows from the second downstream inclined surface to the main inclined surface through the third notch. Thereafter, the water component flows on the main inclined surface inclined so as to guide the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit toward the discharge port, and flows into the drain pipe line through the discharge port. Therefore, discharge of the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is achieved without requiring a dedicated pump. Thus, a laundry drying device is provided that includes a drainage system constructed to reduce manufacturing costs, size and weight of the laundry dryer.

  The said structure WHEREIN: It is preferable that the said support element contains the boundary wall which protrudes between the said 1st downstream inclined surface and the said 2nd upstream inclined surface.

  According to the above configuration, the boundary wall protruding between the first downstream inclined surface and the second upstream inclined surface is such that the water component on the first downstream inclined surface located below the dehumidifying unit is directed to the air supply device. Suppresses being wound up by the flow of dry air.

  In the above-described configuration, the drainage system includes a hollow block provided in the drainage pipe, and a liquid level sensor that detects a liquid level in the washing / drying tub. A layer and an air layer are formed, and the liquid level sensor is caused by a variation in the thickness of the layer of the cleaning liquid in the hollow block that varies in conjunction with the liquid level in the washing and drying tank. It is preferred to detect pressure fluctuations in the air layer.

  According to the above configuration, the cleaning liquid layer and the air layer are formed in the hollow block provided in the drain pipe. The thickness of the cleaning liquid layer in the hollow block varies in conjunction with the liquid level in the washing and drying tank. Variations in the thickness of the cleaning liquid layer in the hollow block cause pressure variations in the air layer in the hollow block. Since the liquid level sensor detects the pressure fluctuation of the air layer, the liquid level in the washing / drying tub is detected.

  The said structure WHEREIN: It is preferable that the said hollow block is arrange | positioned between the said drain valve and the said washing-drying tank, and the said drain pipe line is connected to the said hollow block.

  According to the above configuration, the drain pipe line is connected to the hollow block disposed between the drain valve and the washing / drying tub. Therefore, the water component that has flowed down along the drain pipe falls to the cleaning liquid layer in the hollow block. Thereafter, the water component is discharged by opening the drain valve. Therefore, discharge of the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is achieved without requiring a dedicated pump. Thus, a laundry drying device is provided that includes a drainage system constructed to reduce manufacturing costs, size and weight of the laundry dryer.

  In the above configuration, the apparatus further includes a housing that houses the washing / drying tank, the circulation system, and the drainage system, the housing including a ceiling wall that forms an upper surface of the housing, and the dehumidifying unit includes the ceiling Adjacent to the wall is preferred.

  According to the said structure, a dehumidification unit is adjacent to the top wall which forms the upper surface of the housing | casing which accommodates a washing-drying tank, a circulation system, and a drainage system. As a result, the head in the drain line is set relatively high. Therefore, discharge of the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit is achieved without requiring a dedicated pump. Thus, a laundry drying device is provided that includes a drainage system constructed to reduce manufacturing costs, size and weight of the laundry dryer.

  As described above, the dry laundry apparatus according to the present invention can include a drainage system constructed to reduce the manufacturing cost, the size and weight of the laundry dryer.

1 is a schematic perspective view of a washing / drying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the washing / drying machine shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the washing / drying machine shown in FIG. 1. It is a schematic diagram which shows schematically the heat pump of the washing-drying machine shown by FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view of the heat pump shown in FIG. 4 and a support plate that supports the heat pump. FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of the support plate shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of the support plate shown in FIG. 6. It is a figure which shows schematically the right support wall of the support plate shown by FIG. It is a figure which shows roughly the 1st partition wall of the support plate shown by FIG. It is a figure which shows schematically the 2nd partition wall of the support plate shown by FIG.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that terms used in the following description, such as “up”, “down”, “left”, “right” and the like, are merely for the purpose of clarifying the explanation and do not limit the present invention. Not what you want.

(Washing dryer overall configuration)
FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a washing / drying machine exemplified as a washing / drying apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The washing / drying machine 100 includes a housing 200 and a door body 300. The housing 200 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 200 includes a front wall 210 standing up and down, a back wall 220 opposite to the front wall 210, a left side wall 230 standing up and down between the front wall 210 and the back wall 220, and a right side. It includes a wall 240, a top wall 250 that forms the upper surface of the housing 200, and a bottom wall 260 that forms the lower surface of the housing 200.

  The front wall 210 includes a lower wall 211 disposed below, a central wall 212 disposed above the lower wall 211, and an upper wall 213 disposed above the central wall 212. The central wall 212 and the upper wall 213 are inclined while being curved so as to approach the back wall 220 as it goes upward.

  The central wall 212 includes an annular concave surface 214 that forms a concave region that is substantially complementary to the substantially disk-shaped door body 300. The concave surface 214 surrounds the charging port 215 formed so as to penetrate substantially the center of the central wall 212. The input port 215 communicates with a washing / drying tank (described later) housed inside the housing 200. The user can put clothes in and out of the housing 200 through the insertion port 215 (clothes and similar items).

  The washer / dryer 100 includes a hinge structure 330 that rotatably connects the door 300 to the housing 200. The hinge structure 330 allows the door body 300 to rotate between a closed position where the input port 215 is closed and an open position where the input port 215 is opened. The door body 300 rotated to the closed position is accommodated in a concave region surrounded by the concave surface 214. In addition, the door body 300 shown in FIG. 1 exists in an open position.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the washing / drying machine 100 having the door body 300 in the closed position. The arrangement, shape and structure of the elements in the housing 200 shown in FIG. 2 should not be construed as limiting. The arrangement, shape, and structure of elements in the housing 200 may be appropriately determined according to the design and function of the drying processing apparatus. The overall structure of the washing / drying machine 100 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

  As shown in FIG. 2, a processing apparatus 400 that performs a drying process is constructed in the housing 200. In the present embodiment, the processing apparatus 400 executes processes necessary for washing and drying the clothing C such as a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydrating process in addition to the drying process.

  The processing device 400 includes a washing / drying tank 410 for drying and washing the clothes C. The washing / drying tank 410 for storing the clothing C is a cylindrical water tank 420 having a bottom end that is swingably supported inside the housing 200, and a cylindrical body having a bottom end that is rotatably supported in the water tank 420. Rotating drum 440. The processing apparatus 400 includes a suspension 490 that elastically supports the washing / drying tank 410. The suspension 490 connected to the bottom wall 260 of the housing 200 appropriately absorbs vibration generated during various processes such as the above-described drying process, washing process, rinsing process, and dehydrating process.

  The processing apparatus 400 further includes a motor 430 that rotates the rotating drum 440. The main body of the motor 430 is attached to the outer surface of the bottom wall 431 of the water tank 420. The rotating shaft of the motor 430 passes through the bottom wall 431 of the water tank 420 and is connected to the bottom wall 432 of the rotating drum 440. The motor 430 rotates the rotating drum 440 during various processes such as a drying process, a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydrating process.

  The front wall 433 opposite to the bottom wall 431 of the water tank 420 is formed with an opening 434 that is substantially concentric with the substantially circular door 300 at the closed position. Similarly, an opening 436 that is substantially concentric with the opening 434 formed in the front wall 433 of the water tank 420 is formed on the front wall 435 opposite to the bottom wall 432 of the rotating drum 440. The user can move the door body 300 to the open position and put the clothes C into the rotary drum 440 through the insertion port 215. The processing apparatus 400 further includes a bellows 437 disposed between the central wall 212 of the housing 200 and the front wall 433 of the water tank 420. The water tank 420 is elastically connected to the housing 200 via the bellows 437.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the door body 300 includes a transparent window portion 310 having a substantially one-end trapezoidal cone shape and a substantially disc-shaped support frame 320 that supports the window portion 310. As shown in FIG. 2, when the door body 300 is disposed at the closed position, the window 310 is inserted into the insertion port 215 formed in the housing 200. While the door 300 is in the closed position, the user can visually recognize the clothes C in the washing / drying tub 410 through the transparent window 310.

  The washing / drying machine 100 includes a water supply system 340 for supplying water used for washing to the washing / drying tank 410, and a circulation drainage system 350 for circulating and discharging water (washing liquid) supplied to the washing / drying tank 410. Prepare. In the present embodiment, the water supply system 340 is formed in the upper part of the internal space of the housing 200. Circulating drainage system 350 is formed in the lower part of the internal space of housing 200.

  In the top wall 250 of the housing 200, for example, a water inlet 253 formed so as to be connectable to a hose (not shown) is formed. The water supply system 340 includes a storage chamber 341 that stores the detergent, and a first water supply pipe 342 that connects the water inlet 253 and the storage chamber 341. The storage chamber 341 is adjacent to the inner surface of the top wall 250 of the housing 200. The water supply system 340 further includes a second water supply pipe 343 extending from the accommodation chamber 341 toward the water tank 420.

  The water supplied through the water inlet 253 flows into the storage chamber 341 through the first water supply pipe 342. In the storage chamber 341, water and detergent are mixed to form a cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid is supplied into the water tank 420 through the second water supply pipe 343.

  The water tank 420 is formed with a discharge port 423 for discharging the cleaning liquid and an inlet 424 through which the cleaning liquid flows. A drain outlet 261 for draining the cleaning liquid to the outside of the casing 200 is formed on the bottom wall 260 of the casing 200. The circulating drainage system 350 includes a drainage pipe 351 extending between the drainage port 423 of the water tank 420 and the drainage outlet 261 of the housing 200, and a drainage valve 352 attached to the drainage pipe 351. The drain valve 352 is used to control the drainage of the cleaning liquid to the outside of the housing 200 and is opened and closed as necessary. In this embodiment, the circulation drainage system 350 is illustrated as a drainage system.

  The circulation drainage system 350 includes a circulation pipe 353 branched from the drain pipe 351 upstream of the drain valve 352 and a circulation pump 354 attached to the circulation pipe 353. The circulation line 353 is connected to the inlet 424 of the water tank 420. When the drain valve 352 is closed and the circulation pump 354 is activated, the cleaning liquid in the water tank 420 is sucked toward the circulation pump 354. Thereafter, the cleaning liquid is sent out to the inflow port 424 by the circulation pump 354 and used for washing the clothes C in the washing / drying tank 410.

  The water tank 420 is further formed with a restriction hole 422 for restricting the liquid level in the water tank 420. The circulation drainage system 350 further includes an overflow pipe 355 connected to the restriction hole 422. The overflow pipe 355 is connected to the drain pipe line 351 upstream of the drain valve 352. When the level of the cleaning liquid in the water tank 420 exceeds a predetermined level, the drain valve 352 is opened. Excess cleaning liquid in the water tank 420 flows into the overflow pipe 355 through the restriction hole 422 and is finally discharged from the drain outlet 261 of the housing 200.

  Circulating drainage system 350 further includes a hollow block 356 attached to drainage pipe 351 and a liquid level sensor 357 connected to hollow block 356. In the hollow block 356 attached between the drain valve 352 and the washing / drying tank 410, a cleaning liquid layer and an air layer are formed. Since the hollow block 356 is connected to the water tank 420 via the drain pipe 351, the thickness of the cleaning liquid layer in the hollow block 356 varies in conjunction with the level of the cleaning liquid in the water tank 420. Variations in the thickness of the cleaning liquid layer in the hollow block 356 cause pressure variations in the air layer in the hollow block 356. The liquid level sensor 357 detects pressure fluctuations in the air layer in the hollow block 356. The output of the liquid level sensor 357 is used to adjust the liquid level of the cleaning liquid in the water tank 420.

  FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the washing / drying machine 100. The overall structure of the washing / drying machine 100 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3.

  The laundry dryer 100 includes a circulation system 600 that circulates dry air for drying the clothes C accommodated in the rotary drum 440. The circulation system 600 is also constructed in the housing 200 in the same manner as the washing / drying tank 410 and the circulation drainage system 350.

  The water tank 420 includes a cylindrical peripheral wall 438 extending between the bottom wall 431 and the front wall 433. An exhaust port 601 through which dry air is exhausted from the washing / drying tank 410 is formed in the peripheral wall 438 of the water tank 420. In addition, an air inlet 643 through which dry air is sucked into the washing / drying tank 410 is formed in the bottom wall 431 of the water tank 420. The circulation system 600 circulates dry air for drying the clothing C between the exhaust port 601 and the intake port 643.

  The bottom wall 432 of the rotating drum 440 is formed with a bottom hole 645 for urging dry air sucked from the intake port 643 into the rotating drum 440. The rotating drum 440 includes a cylindrical peripheral wall 439 extending between the bottom wall 432 and the front wall 435. A plurality of peripheral holes 646 are formed in the peripheral wall 439 of the rotating drum 440 for urging dry air to the exhaust port 601 formed in the peripheral wall 438 of the water tank 420. Drying air from the bottom hole 645 toward the peripheral hole 646 prompts the clothing C in the rotary drum 440 to dry.

  The circulation system 600 extends from the exhaust port 601 of the water tank 420 and extends along the top wall 250 of the housing 200, and lint (dust such as lint) from the dry air discharged from the washing / drying tank 410. A filter device 700 that removes components), a heat pump 630 adjacent to the filter device 700, and a blower 621 that circulates dry air. The first conduit 610 includes a support plate, which will be described later, and a connection conduit 602 that connects the support plate and the exhaust port 601. In the present embodiment, the support plate is formed to support the filter device 700, the heat pump 630, and the blower 621. The blower 621 is exemplified as an air supply device. Connection pipe line 602 is illustrated as a connection pipe.

  The first conduit 610 guides dry air from the washing / drying tank 410 toward the blower 621. In the first conduit 610, the filter device 700 removes lint from the dry air. The heat pump 630 exchanges heat with dry air to dehumidify and heat the dry air. The blower 621 sucks the dehumidified and heated dry air, and then sends it out to the washing / drying tank 410.

  The circulation system 600 further includes a second pipe 620 that guides dry air from the blower 621 toward the washing / drying tank 410. The dry air sent out from the blower 621 is guided to the second pipe 620 and flows into the washing / drying tank 410 through the air inlet 643.

  The circulation system 600 includes a branch pipe 650 that branches from the second pipe 620 and a switching valve 651 that is disposed at a connection portion between the second pipe 620 and the branch pipe 650. The branch conduit 650 has a tip portion that communicates with an opening 436 formed in the front wall 435 of the rotary drum 440. The switching valve 651 rotates between a first position where the flow of dry air from the blower 621 toward the intake port 643 is blocked and a second position along the flow of dry air from the blower 621 toward the intake port 643. When the switching valve 651 is in the first position, most of the dry air is blown from the opening 436 of the rotating drum 440 to the clothing C through the branch pipe 650. When the switching valve 651 is in the second position, most of the dry air is directed to the intake port 643. For example, the switching valve 651 is set to the second position for a predetermined period after the drying process is started. Thereafter, the switching valve 651 is set to the first position until the drying process is completed. Thus, the drying operation is changed in accordance with the degree of drying of the clothing C.

(heat pump)
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram schematically showing the heat pump 630. The heat pump 630 is described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

  The heat pump 630 includes a circulation pipe 631. The refrigerant flows through the circulation pipe 631. The heat pump 630 includes a compressor 632 that compresses the refrigerant. The compressor 632 is disposed in the middle of the circulation pipe 631 that draws a closed loop.

  The circulation pipe 631 through which the refrigerant sent out from the compressor 632 flows projects into the first pipe line 610 to form a radiator 633. The radiator 633 that radiates the heat of the refrigerant heated by the compression by the compressor 632 includes a circulation pipe 631 meandering in the first conduit 610 and fins 638 attached to the circulation pipe 631. The dry air that passes through the first conduit 610 is heated by the radiator 633. In the present embodiment, the radiator 633 is exemplified as a heating unit.

  The heat pump 630 includes a decompressor 634 that decompresses the refrigerant whose pressure has been increased by the compressor 632. The refrigerant that has passed through the radiator 633 is cooled at the same time as being decompressed by the decompressor 634.

  The circulation pipe 631 through which the refrigerant that has passed through the decompressor 634 flows again projects into the first conduit 610 to form a heat absorber 635 between the blower 621 and the radiator 633. The heat absorber 635 that absorbs heat using the refrigerant cooled by the decompression by the decompressor 634 includes a circulation pipe 631 meandering in the first pipe 610 and fins 636 attached to the circulation pipe 631. The dry air in the first duct 610 is absorbed by the heat absorber 635. As a result, water components in the dry air are condensed on the fins 636 and / or the circulation pipe 631 and removed from the dry air. In the following description, the water component in the dry air condensed on the fins 636 and / or the circulation pipe 631 is referred to as condensed water. In the present embodiment, the heat absorber 635 is exemplified as a dehumidifying unit.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the circulation system 600 includes a drain line 639 connected from the first line 610 to a drain line 351 disposed below the heat absorber 635. In the present embodiment, the drain conduit 639 is connected to a hollow block 356 provided in the drain conduit 351. The drain line 639 is used to guide the condensed water to the drain line 351.

  The heat pump 630 is adjacent to the top wall 250 of the housing 200. Accordingly, a relatively large head of condensed water is generated in the drain line 639. Thus, the condensed water is appropriately urged to the drain pipe 351 by the gravity action.

  The circulation system 600 further includes a check valve 637 attached to the drain line 639. Due to the operation of the blower 621, most of the internal space of the first duct 610 becomes negative pressure. The check valve 637 cuts off the negative pressure environment generated in the first pipe line 610 at the middle part of the drain pipe line 639. As a result, the flow of fluid rising from the drain pipe 351 toward the first pipe 610 is suppressed. Mounting position of the check valve 637 in the drain line 639 so that a head having a sufficient size is generated between the check valve 637 and the first pipe line 610 to feed condensed water to the drain line 351. Is appropriately determined.

(Support plate)
FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view of the filter device 700, the heat pump 630, and the blower 621 disposed on the support plate. FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of the support plate. FIG. 7 is a schematic right side view of the support plate. The support plate will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 5 to 7.

  The support plate 500 includes a bottom wall 510 that supports the filter device 700, the heat pump 630, and the blower 621, and a peripheral wall 520 that stands from the periphery of the bottom wall 510. The peripheral wall 520 includes a connection wall 521 connected to the connection pipe line 602. An opening 522 connected to the connection pipe 602 is formed in the connection wall 521.

  The filter device 700 is adjacent to the connection wall 521. Therefore, lint is removed by the filter device 700 from the dry air introduced from the opening 522. The blower 621 is displaced on the left side with respect to the opening 522 and disposed on the bottom wall 510. In the present embodiment, the connection wall 521 is erected from the front edge of the bottom wall 510. The blower 621 is disposed in the vicinity of the edge of the bottom wall 510 on the back side.

  The heat absorber 635 of the heat pump 630 is adjacent to the filter device 700. The heat absorber 635 removes the water component from the dry air immediately after passing through the filter device 700. The right side portion 635R of the heat absorber 635 faces the opening 522. The left side portion 635L adjacent to the right side portion 635R faces the blower 621. In the present embodiment, the support plate 500 that supports the heat absorber 635 is exemplified as a support element. Further, the right side portion 635R of the heat absorber 635 is exemplified as the first dehumidifying portion. The left portion 635L of the heat absorber 635 is exemplified as the second dehumidifying unit.

  The heat radiator 633 of the heat pump 630 is adjacent to the heat absorber 635. A heat radiator 633 disposed between the heat absorber 635 and the blower 621 is formed to have substantially the same shape and size as the heat absorber 635. The right portion 633R of the heat radiator 633 is adjacent to the right portion 635R of the heat absorber 635. The left portion 633L of the heat radiator 633 is adjacent to the left portion 635L of the heat absorber 635. In the present embodiment, the right side portion 633R of the radiator 633 is exemplified as the first heating unit. The left portion 633L adjacent to the right portion 633R is exemplified as the second heating unit.

  The bottom wall 510 includes a main inclined surface 511 formed on the right side of the heat absorber 635 and the heat radiator 633. The condensed water generated from the heat absorber 635 is urged by the main inclined surface 511. The main inclined surface 511 is inclined so that the condensed water on the main inclined surface 511 flows in the back direction.

  The support plate 500 includes a reservoir 530 adjacent to the rear side end of the main inclined surface 511. The reservoir 530 is further recessed downward with respect to the main inclined surface 511. Therefore, the dew condensation water that has reached the rear side end of the main inclined surface 511 flows into the reservoir 530. The reservoir 530 can temporarily store a predetermined amount of condensed water.

  The support plate 500 includes a connection port 531 formed at the bottom of the reservoir 530. A connection port 531 formed so as to discharge condensed water in the reservoir 530 from the support plate 500 is connected to the upper end of the drain pipe 639. The main inclined surface 511 is inclined so as to guide the condensed water to the reservoir 530 as described above. In the present embodiment, the connection port 531 is exemplified as a discharge port.

  The support plate 500 includes a cylindrical wall 540 that surrounds the compressor 632 of the heat pump 630. The cylindrical wall 540 is adjacent to the reservoir 530.

  FIG. 8 is a schematic right side view of the heat absorber 635 and the heat radiator 633 supported by the support plate 500. The support plate 500 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5, 6, and 8.

  The support plate 500 includes a right support wall 512 that supports the right ends of the heat absorber 635 and the heat radiator 633. The right support wall 512 defines the left boundary of the main inclined surface 511. The left ends of the heat absorber 635 and the heat radiator 633 are appropriately supported by a left support wall 513 protruding from the peripheral wall 520 of the support plate 500.

  The right support wall 512 protruding from the upper surface of the bottom wall 510 is a first right support wall 514 along the front and bottom edges of the right side surface of the heat absorber 635, and one of the back and bottom edges of the right side surface of the radiator 633. And a third right support wall 516 that supports the bottom edge of the right side surface of the radiator 633 between the first right support wall 514 and the second right support wall 515. . Cutouts 517 and 518 are formed in the right support wall 512. The notch 517 is formed between the first right support wall 514 and the third right support wall 516. The notch 518 is formed between the second right support wall 515 and the third right support wall 516.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the support plate 500 includes a boundary wall 541 that protrudes upward between the heat absorber 635 and the heat radiator 633. The bottom wall 510 of the support plate 500 includes a first inclined surface 542 formed below the heat absorber 635 and a second inclined surface 543 formed below the heat radiator 633. The right support wall 512 partitions the main inclined surface 511 and the first inclined surface 542. The right support wall 512 partitions the main inclined surface 511 and the second inclined surface 543. In the present embodiment, the right support wall 512 protruding between the main inclined surface 511 and the first inclined surface 542 / second inclined surface 543 is exemplified as the support wall.

  The support plate 500 divides the first inclined surface 542 into a first upstream inclined surface 544 and a first downstream inclined surface 545 that is farther from the connection wall 521 than the first upstream inclined surface 544 (closer to the blower 621). A first partition wall 546 is provided. The first partition wall 546 protruding from the first inclined surface 542 extends in the left-right direction (a direction intersecting the flow of dry air toward the air supply device 621).

  The support plate 500 divides the second inclined surface 543 into a second upstream inclined surface 547 and a second downstream inclined surface 548 that is farther from the connection wall 521 than the second upstream inclined surface 547 (closer to the blower 621). A second partition wall 549 is provided. The second partition wall 549 protruding from the second inclined surface 543 extends in the left-right direction (the direction intersecting the flow of dry air toward the air supply device 621).

  FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view around the connection portion between the right support wall 512 and the first partition wall 546. The support plate 500 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 5, 6, and 9.

  A fin 636 of the heat absorber 635 is continuously provided along the first partition wall 546. The circulation pipe 631 passes through the fins 636. Thus, the fins 636 are sufficiently cooled by the refrigerant flowing in the circulation pipe 631. The dry air that has come into contact with the fins 636 and / or the circulation pipe 631 is cooled. As a result, condensed water is generated on the surfaces of the fins 636 and / or the circulation pipe 631. The condensed water drops on a first inclined surface 542 (first upstream inclined surface 544, first downstream inclined surface 545) formed below the heat absorber 635. The condensed water dropped on the first inclined surface 542 flows toward the right support wall 512 / main inclined surface 511 (that is, from below the left portion 635L of the heat absorber 635 to below the right portion 635R). The first inclined surface 542 is inclined.

  A notch 551 is formed in the first partition wall 546 in the vicinity of the right support wall 512. The notch 551 of the first partition wall 546 allows the flow of condensed water from the first upstream inclined surface 544 to the first downstream inclined surface 545. Further, the notch 517 formed between the first right support wall 514 and the third right support wall 516 allows the flow of condensed water from the first downstream inclined surface 545 to the main inclined surface 511. In the present embodiment, the notch 517 formed between the first right support wall 514 and the third right support wall 516 is exemplified as the first notch. The notch 551 of the first partition wall 546 is exemplified as the second notch.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view around the connection portion between the right support wall 512 and the second partition wall 549. The support plate 500 will be further described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 and FIG. 10.

  The fins 638 of the heat radiator 633 are continuously provided along the second partition wall 549. The circulation pipe 631 passes through the fins 638. As described with reference to FIG. 4, the refrigerant in the radiator 633 is sufficiently heated by the compressor 632. Therefore, unlike the heat absorber 635, no condensation occurs directly on the fins 638 and the circulation pipe 631 in the heat radiator 633. However, the condensed water generated in the heat absorber 635 rides on the flow of dry air and potentially adheres to the fins 638 and the circulation pipe 631 in the radiator 633. The boundary wall 541 protruding between the first downstream inclined surface 545 and the second upstream inclined surface 547 extends in the left-right direction (the direction intersecting the flow of dry air toward the blower 621), and the heat absorber 635. To partially transfer the condensed water from the radiator to the radiator 633.

  Condensed water adhering to the fins 638 and the circulation pipe 631 in the radiator 633 is dropped on the second inclined surface 543 (second upstream inclined surface 547, second downstream inclined surface 548) formed below the radiator 633. To do. The condensed water dropped on the second inclined surface 543 flows toward the right support wall 512 / main inclined surface 511 (that is, from below the left portion 633L of the radiator 633 to below the right portion 633R). The second inclined surface 543 is inclined.

  A notch 552 is formed in the second partition wall 549 in the vicinity of the right support wall 512. The notch 552 of the second partition wall 549 allows the flow of condensed water from the second upstream inclined surface 547 to the second downstream inclined surface 548. Further, the notch 518 formed between the second right support wall 515 and the third right support wall 516 allows the flow of condensed water from the second downstream inclined surface 548 to the main inclined surface 511. In the present embodiment, the notch 518 formed between the second right support wall 515 and the third right support wall 516 is exemplified as the third notch. The notch 552 of the second partition wall 549 is exemplified as the fourth notch.

(Condensation water discharge)
The process of discharging condensed water will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 3 and 6.

  The condensed water dropped on the first inclined surface 542 and / or the second inclined surface 543 is urged by the main inclined surface 511. Thereafter, the condensed water is accumulated in the reservoir 530. The condensed water stored in the reservoir 530 flows into the drain line 639 at any time. As a result, a high water head is generated between the check valve 637 attached to the drain line 639 and the connection port 531. The high water head resists the negative pressure environment caused by the operation of the blower 621 and causes the dew condensation water to flow downward of the check valve 637. Thus, the dew condensation water is sent to the hollow block 356 existing below the check valve 637 as needed.

  In the present embodiment, the flow of condensed water from the support plate 500 to the hollow block 356 is caused by gravity. Therefore, the flow of dew condensation water has little influence on the circulation of dry air by the blower 621.

  In the prior art, the flow of condensed water is caused by a pump. The suction of the pump often affects the circulation of dry air, but in this embodiment, the flow of condensed water is performed independently of the circulation of dry air.

  The inflow of condensed water into the hollow block 356 potentially thickens the layer of cleaning liquid in the hollow block 356. The liquid level sensor 357 may detect a change in air pressure in the hollow block 356 due to inflow of condensed water into the hollow block 356. Further, the drain valve 352 may be opened due to increased air pressure in the hollow block 356. As a result, the condensed water is discharged out of the housing 200. Alternatively, when the drain valve 352 is opened according to a program for realizing various processes such as a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydrating process, the condensed water may be discharged together with the cleaning water.

  The washing / drying machine 100 according to the present embodiment can execute appropriate drainage of condensed water with almost no additional parts or programs. In addition, the conventional pump equipment that has been used exclusively for the drainage of condensed water is not required.

  The present invention is suitably used for a washing / drying machine.

100 ······················································· 350 ... Hollow block 357 ... Liquid level sensor 410 ... Washing / drying tank 500 ... Support plate 511 ... Main inclined surface 512 ...・ ・ ・ Right support wall 517 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Notch 518 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Notch 521 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Connection wall 522 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Opening 531 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Connection Port 541 ... Boundary wall 542 ... First slope 543 ... Second slope 544 ... First upstream slope 545 ...・ First downstream inclined surface 546... First partition wall 547... Second upstream inclined surface 548. 49 ······· Second partition wall 551 ······ Notch portion 552 ········· Notch portion 600 ······ circulation system 602 ····· Connection pipe line 610 ··· ... first pipe 620 ... second pipe 621 ... blower 633 ... radiator 633L ... left side 633R ...・ Right part 635 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Heat absorber 635L ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Left part 635R ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Right part 637 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Check valve 639 ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・ Drain line C ·······clothing

Claims (12)

A washing and drying tank for washing and drying clothes;
A circulation system for circulating dry air for drying the clothing;
A drainage system for draining the washing water that washed the clothing, and
The drainage system includes a drainage pipe connected to the washing / drying tub, and a drainage valve for controlling drainage of the washing water in the drainage pipe,
The circulation system guides the water component removed by the dehumidification unit to a dehumidification unit that removes the water component contained in the dry air and the drainage pipe disposed below the dehumidification unit. A washing and drying apparatus comprising: a drain line; The circulation system includes an air supply device that circulates the dry air, a first pipe that guides the dry air from the washing / drying tub toward the air supply device, and the air supply device to the washing / drying tub. A second conduit for guiding the dry air toward the
The dehumidifying unit removes the water component from the dry air flowing in the first pipeline,
The washing / drying apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the circulation system includes a check valve attached to the drain line. The first conduit includes a support element that supports the dehumidifying unit;
The support element includes a discharge port connected to the drain pipe, a main inclined surface inclined to guide the water component removed by the dehumidification unit toward the discharge port, and a lower part of the dehumidification unit A first inclined surface formed on the main inclined surface and the first inclined surface, and a support wall that supports the dehumidifying unit.
The first inclined surface is inclined so that the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit flows toward the main inclined surface,
The washing / drying apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the support wall is formed with a first notch that allows the water component to flow from the first inclined surface to the main inclined surface. The first pipe line includes a connecting pipe that connects the washing / drying tank and the support element,
The support element that supports the air supply device includes a connection wall in which an opening connected to the connection pipe is formed,
The dehumidifying unit includes a first dehumidifying part facing the opening, and a second dehumidifying part adjacent to the first dehumidifying part,
The second dehumidifying part faces the air supply device,
4. The washing and drying apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first inclined surface is inclined such that the water component removed by the second dehumidifying part flows downward of the first dehumidifying part. The support element includes a first partition wall that partitions the first inclined surface into a first upstream inclined surface and a first downstream inclined surface that is farther from the connection wall than the first upstream inclined surface;
The first partition wall is formed with a second notch that allows the water component to flow from the first upstream inclined surface to the first downstream inclined surface in the vicinity of the support wall,
The laundry drying apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the first notch allows the water component to flow from the first downstream inclined surface to the main inclined surface. A heating unit for heating the dry air;
The support wall supports a heating unit disposed between the dehumidifying unit and the air supply device,
The support element includes a second inclined surface formed below the heating unit;
The second inclined surface is inclined so that the water component removed by the dehumidifying unit flows toward the main inclined surface,
A third cutout portion that allows the water component to flow from the second inclined surface to the main inclined surface is formed in the support wall that partitions the main inclined surface and the second inclined surface. The washing / drying apparatus according to claim 5. The heating unit includes a first heating unit adjacent to the first dehumidifying unit, and a second heating unit adjacent to the second dehumidifying unit,
The washing / drying apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the second inclined surface is inclined such that the water component located below the second heating unit flows toward the lower side of the first heating unit. . The support element includes a second partition wall that partitions the second inclined surface into a second upstream inclined surface and a second downstream inclined surface closer to the air supply device than the second upstream inclined surface,
The second partition wall is formed with a fourth notch that allows the water component to flow from the second upstream inclined surface to the second downstream inclined surface in the vicinity of the support wall,
The washing / drying apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the fourth notch allows the water component to flow from the second downstream inclined surface to the main inclined surface.   The washing and drying apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the support element includes a boundary wall protruding between the first downstream inclined surface and the second upstream inclined surface. The drainage system includes a hollow block provided in the drainage pipe, and a liquid level sensor that detects a liquid level in the washing and drying tub,
In the hollow block, a layer of the cleaning liquid and a layer of air are formed, and the liquid level sensor is configured to change the cleaning liquid in the hollow block that fluctuates in conjunction with the liquid level in the washing and drying tub. The washing / drying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a pressure fluctuation of the air layer caused by a fluctuation of a layer thickness is detected. The hollow block is disposed between the drain valve and the washing / drying tank,
The washing / drying apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the drain pipe is connected to the hollow block. A housing for accommodating the washing / drying tank, the circulation system, and the drainage system;
The housing includes a top wall that forms an upper surface of the housing,
The washing / drying apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the dehumidifying unit is adjacent to the top wall.