巴西专利BR112013033893B1 washing machine

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专利摘要:
WASHING MACHINE AND DETERGENT SUPPLY SYSTEM This is a washing machine (1) comprising a housing (2) that holds a washing bowl (3) external to a washing drum (4) suitable for receiving the laundry to be washed and a detergent supply system (5; 35; 55; 65; 105) comprising a mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) suitable for receiving detergent (D) and water (W) and which comprises a mixing device (20; 40; 100) suitable for mixing the detergent (D) and water (W) in the mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) to form a washing solution. The mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) and the mixing device (20; 40; 100) are arranged inside the housing (2) and the mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) comprises an inlet (7; 57; 87; 107) accessible from outside the housing (2) for the insertion of detergent (D) and an outlet (14; 94) for delivering the washing solution (S) to the washing tank (3).
公开号:BR112013033893B1
申请号:R112013033893-8
申请日:2012-06-26
公开日:2020-11-24
发明作者:Monica Celotto；Andrea Zattin；Elisa Stabon；Maurizio Del Pos；Maurizio Ugel；Nicola Reid
申请人:Electrolux Home Procucts Corporation N.V；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

[0001] [001] The present invention relates to the field of laundry washing techniques. In particular, the present invention relates to a washing machine that comprises a detergent supply system. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] [002] Currently, the use of washing machines, both “simple” washing machines (that is, washing machines that can only wash and clean clothes) and washing and drying machines (that is, washing machines that can also dry clothes), is widespread.
[0003] [003] In this specification, the term "washing machine" will refer to both simple washing machines and washing and drying machines.
[0004] [004] Washing machines in general comprise an external housing equipped with a washing tub inside which there is a perforated rotating drum in which the laundry is placed.
[0005] [005] A loading / unloading door guarantees access to the tank and drum.
[0006] [006] Washing machines typically comprise a detergent supply unit that contains washing and / or rinsing products (ie detergent, fabric softener, etc.) and a water inlet circuit to supply water. The detergent supply unit, which usually consists of a removable drawer, and the water inlet circuit preferably cooperates to allow the introduction of water and wash / rinse products into the tub during the laundry cycle.
[0007] [007] A washing cycle will typically include a first phase, or soaking phase, during which a predetermined amount of detergent is placed inside the tub on the laundry along with a quantity of soaking water.
[0008] [008] The water is supplied in the tub making it flow through the drawer. In this way, the introduction of the preset amount of detergent is removed from the compartment opposite the drawer by the flow of clean water that passes through the appropriate compartment of the drawer itself.
[0009] [009] According to a known technique, the initial soaking step includes the step of mixing a predetermined amount of detergent with water to form a solution that is introduced into the tub to soak the laundry.
[0010] [010] A soaking method that belongs to the known technique is disclosed in document No. EP864684A1. In that document, a method and system for dosing detergent into a washing machine is described.
[0011] [011] The dosing system comprises a detergent supply retainer and a mixing chamber for mixing the detergent with a solvent (preferably water) in a predetermined concentration range to form a liquor. The system also comprises control means for supplying the contents of the mixing chamber to a remote washing machine once the liquor is prepared inside the mixing chamber. A dose control unit is also connected to a pump arranged on the line between the mixing chamber and the remote washing machine to ensure that the desired amount of detergent is supplied to the washing machine.
[0012] [012] However, the system for mixing detergent with water described above that belongs to the known technique imposes some disadvantages.
[0013] [013] A first disadvantage imposed by this technique is the complexity of the system for mixing detergent with water.
[0014] [014] An additional disadvantage of the known technique is represented by the fact that the system for mixing detergent with the solvent is complicated.
[0015] [015] The main objective of the present invention is, therefore, to overcome the said disadvantages.
[0016] [016] In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a washing machine with a system for mixing detergent that has a reduced construction complexity in relation to the washing machine of the known type.
[0017] [017] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a washing machine with a system for mixing detergent that is easier to use than the washing machine of the known type. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0018] - uma carcaça que sustenta um cuba de lavagem externa a um tambor de lavagem adequado para receber as roupas a serem lavadas; - um sistema de abastecimento de detergente que compreende uma câmara de mistura adequada para receber detergente e água e que compreende um dispositivo de mistura adequado para misturar o dito detergente e a dita água na dita câmara de mistura para formar uma solução de lavagem, em que a dita câmara de mistura e o dito dispositivo de mistura são dispostos dentro da dita carcaça e a dita câmara de mistura compreende uma entrada acessível de fora da carcaça para a inserção do dito detergente e uma saída para entregar a dita solução de lavagem na dita cuba de lavagem. [018] The present invention, therefore, relates, in a first aspect, to a washing machine comprising: - a housing that supports an external washing tank to a washing drum suitable for receiving the laundry to be washed; - a detergent supply system comprising a mixing chamber suitable for receiving detergent and water and comprising a mixing device suitable for mixing said detergent and said water in said mixing chamber to form a washing solution, wherein said mixing chamber and said mixing device are disposed within said housing and said mixing chamber comprises an inlet accessible from outside the housing for the insertion of said detergent and an outlet for delivering said washing solution to said tub washing.
[0019] [019] In a preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber is stationary in relation to the housing.
[0020] [020] In an additional preferred mode, the mixing chamber is slidable in relation to the housing.
[0021] [021] Preferably, the detergent supply system comprises a mixing device suitable for mixing the detergent and water within the mixing chamber.
[0022] [022] Preferably, the mixing device comprises a recirculation device.
[0023] [023] Advantageously, the recirculation device comprises a recirculation circuit with a recirculation pump.
[0024] [024] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the detergent and the water are substantially mixed along said recirculation circuit.
[0025] [025] In an additional preferred embodiment, the mixing device comprises a mechanical mixer.
[0026] [026] Advantageously, the mechanical mixer comprises turbine blades.
[0027] [027] Preferably, the washing machine comprises a dispenser that has at least one compartment suitable for receiving washing and / or rinsing products and the mixing chamber outlet communicates with the compartment.
[0028] [028] Advantageously, the dispenser and the mixing chamber form a module that can be connected to the housing.
[0029] [029] In due course, the outlet comprises a delivery pump.
[0030] [030] Preferably, the dispenser comprises a removable drawer.
[0031] [031] In a preferred embodiment, the removable drawer and mixing chamber form an integral unit that can be slid in relation to the housing.
[0032] [032] Advantageously, the washing machine comprises an interface unit through which the user can select a washing program that uses the mixing chamber to form a washing solution.
[0033] [033] In a second aspect thereof, the present invention relates to a detergent supply system for a washing machine comprising a mixing chamber suitable for receiving detergent and water and comprising a mixing device suitable for mixes said detergent and said water in said mixing chamber to form a washing solution, wherein the detergent supply system is suitable to be installed inside said washing machine and comprises an accessible inlet from outside the washing machine washing clothes for the insertion of said detergent and an outlet for delivering said washing solution. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] - A Figura 1 mostra uma vista isométrica de uma máquina de lavar roupa de acordo com uma primeira modalidade da invenção; - A Figura 2 mostra uma vista lateral da máquina de lavar roupa mostrada na Figura 1; - A Figura 3 mostra uma vista esquemática de uma particularidade da Figura 1; - A Figura 4 mostra uma vista frontal de uma particularidade da máquina de lavar roupa mostrada na Figura 1; - A Figura 5 mostra uma variante de construção da Figura 3; - A Figura 6 mostra uma variante de construção adequada da Figura 3 em uma primeira condição de operação; - A Figura 7 mostra a particularidade da Figura 6 em uma segunda condição de operação; - A Figura 8 mostra uma vista frontal de uma particularidade da máquina de lavar roupa da invenção em referência à modalidade da Figura 7; - A Figura 9 mostra uma variante de construção da Figura 3 em uma primeira condição de operação; - A Figura 10 mostra uma vista frontal de uma particularidade da máquina de lavar roupa da invenção em referência à modalidade da Figura 9; - A Figura 11 mostra a particularidade da Figura 9 em uma segunda condição de operação; - A Figura 12 mostra uma vista frontal de uma particularidade da máquina de lavar roupa da invenção em referência à modalidade da Figura 11; - A Figura 13 mostra uma modalidade preferencial de uma particularidade da Figura 9; - A Figura 14 mostra uma variante de construção da Figura 9 em uma primeira condição de operação; - A Figura 15 mostra a particularidade da Figura 14 em uma segunda condição de operação; - A Figura 16 mostra uma vista frontal de uma particularidade da máquina de lavar roupa da invenção em referência à modalidade da Figura 15. [034] Additional features and advantages of the present invention will be highlighted in more detail in the following detailed description of some of the preferred modalities, with reference to the attached drawings. In the said drawings: Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the invention; - Figure 2 shows a side view of the washing machine shown in Figure 1; - Figure 3 shows a schematic view of a feature of Figure 1; - Figure 4 shows a front view of a particularity of the washing machine shown in Figure 1; - Figure 5 shows a construction variant of Figure 3; - Figure 6 shows a suitable construction variant of Figure 3 in a first operating condition; - Figure 7 shows the particularity of Figure 6 in a second operating condition; - Figure 8 shows a front view of a particularity of the washing machine of the invention with reference to the embodiment of Figure 7; - Figure 9 shows a construction variant of Figure 3 in a first operating condition; - Figure 10 shows a front view of a particularity of the washing machine of the invention with reference to the embodiment of Figure 9; - Figure 11 shows the particularity of Figure 9 in a second operating condition; - Figure 12 shows a front view of a particularity of the washing machine of the invention with reference to the embodiment of Figure 11; - Figure 13 shows a preferred embodiment of a feature of Figure 9; - Figure 14 shows a construction variant of Figure 9 in a first operating condition; - Figure 15 shows the particularity of Figure 14 in a second operating condition; - Figure 16 shows a front view of a particularity of the washing machine of the invention with reference to the embodiment of Figure 15.
[0035] [035] A washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention is described below with reference to Figures 1 to 4.
[0036] [036] The washing machine 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 is a front loading washing machine. The present invention has proved to be particularly successful when applied to front-loading washing machines. It should, in any case, be emphasized that the present invention is not limited to its application. On the contrary, the present invention can be usefully applied to different types of washing devices with loading, such as, for example, top-loading washing machines or washing and drying machines.
[0037] [037] The washing machine 1 comprises an external housing or housing 2, in which a washing bowl 3 is provided that contains a rotary perforated drum 4, in which the laundry to be washed can be loaded.
[0038] [038] Bowl 3 and drum 4 both preferably have a substantially cylindrical shape.
[0039] [039] The housing 2 has a front loading / unloading door 11 that allows access to the washing bowl 3 and the drum 4.
[0040] [040] Bowl 3 is preferably suspended in a floating manner inside housing 2, advantageously by means of several spiral springs and dampers 17.
[0041] [041] Bowl 3 is preferably connected to housing 2 by means of an elastic bellows or gasket.
[0042] [042] The drum 4 is advantageously rotated by an electric motor that preferably transmits the rotation movement to the axis of the drum 4, advantageously by means of a belt / pulley system. In a different embodiment of the invention, the motor can be directly associated with the axis of the drum 4.
[0043] [043] A detergent supply system 5 is preferably arranged at the top of the washing machine 1.
[0044] [044] The term detergent refers now to any washing products suitable for washing clothes, such as a powder detergent or a liquid detergent.
[0045] [045] The detergent supply system 5 is suitable for filling water W and detergent D in bowl 3, as best described below in the description.
[0046] [046] The detergent supply system 5 advantageously comprises a container 6 of suitable size, as described below, provided with a hole 7 that can be closed by means of an access door 8 associated with the housing 2.
[0047] [047] Opening the access door 8 allows the insertion of a suitable quantity Qd of detergent D into container 6.
[0048] [048] The detergent supply system 5 advantageously comprises an inlet water line 9 for supplying clean water W to container 6, as shown in Figure 3.
[0049] [049] The inlet water line 9 preferably comprises at least one supply pipe 10, connected to the external water supply line, provided with an appropriately controlled first inlet valve 12. In additional embodiments, the inlet water line may also comprise supply pipes provided with the respective inlet valves, as, for example, when an external hot water supply line is also available.
[0050] [050] In the preferred mode, water flows to container 6 from the external water supply line thanks to its own pressure. In an additional embodiment, an appropriately controlled supply pump can be provided along the supply tube 10.
[0051] [051] The inlet water line 9 preferably also comprises a water flow sensor, for example, a flow meter, which makes it possible to calculate the amount of water W supplied to the container 6.
[0052] [052] The detergent supply system 5 advantageously comprises an emission circuit 14 to allow the removal of liquid from the container 6.
[0053] [053] The emission circuit 14 preferably comprises a delivery tube 15, provided with an appropriately controlled delivery valve 16.
[0054] [054] The delivery tube 15 preferably ends in correspondence to an upper portion of the bowl 3 in the vicinity of the front door 11.
[0055] [055] The delivery tube 15 is preferably connected to the bottom of the container 6 and the liquid can fall from the container 6 to the bowl 3.
[0056] [056] In an additional embodiment, an appropriately controlled delivery pump can be provided along the delivery tube 15.
[0057] [057] The detergent supply system 5 advantageously comprises a mixing device 20 which is applied to the container 6 and comprises a recirculating mixing pump 21, an inlet connection line 22 that connects the recirculating mixing pump 21 to the container 6 and an outlet connection line 23 that connects the recirculating mixing pump 21 to container 6.
[0058] [058] The recirculation mixing pump 21 is activated to recirculate the liquid inside the container 6. The recirculation mixing pump 21 draws liquid from the container 6 via the inlet connection line 22 and discharges the withdrawn liquid back to container 6 via outlet connection line 23.
[0059] [059] The washing machine 1 advantageously comprises a water outlet circuit 25, as shown in Figures 1 and 2.
[0060] [060] The water outlet circuit 25 advantageously comprises a drain pump 26, a first tube 27 that connects bowl 3 to the drain pump 26 and an outlet tube 28 that ends outside the housing 2. The outlet circuit of water 25 is suitable for draining the liquid, that is, dirty water or water mixed with washing products and / or rinsing, from bowl 3 to the outside.
[0061] [061] The water outlet circuit 25 is advantageously provided with a recirculation circuit 30 adapted to drain liquid from a bottom region of the bowl 3 and to readmit such liquid in a higher region of the bowl 3.
[0062] [062] The recirculation circuit 30 comprises the drain pump 26 and a recirculation tube 31. The recirculation tube 31 advantageously terminates with an end nozzle 31a in a higher region of bowl 3 and in the vicinity of the front door 11.
[0063] [063] A two-way valve 35 is preferably interposed between the drain pump 26, the outlet tube 28 and the recirculation tube 31.
[0064] [064] The two-way valve 35 is preferably controlled appropriately to allow selective drainage out through the outlet tube 28 or into the upper region of the tub 3 through the recirculation tube 31.
[0065] [065] In an additional modality, not illustrated, the recirculation circuit may comprise a dedicated recirculation tube that connects a bottom region of the vat with a higher region of the latter and equipped with a dedicated recirculation pump; in this case, the recirculation circuit is advantageously completely separated from the water outlet circuit.
[0066] [066] The water outlet circuit 25 advantageously comprises a filtering device 13 positioned between the bottom of the bowl 3 and the drain pump 26 and adapted to retain all undesirable bodies (for example, buttons that have loosened from the laundry, coins by mistake, into the washing machine, etc.) that passed through the holes located on the surface of the drum 4, or fell into the bottom of the bowl 3 while passing into the hollow space between the drum 4 and the bowl 3, which could damage or block the drain pump 26.
[0067] [067] Advantageously, the washing machine 1 comprises a heating device, not shown in this document, adapted to heat the laundry and / or water inside the laundry and / or the free water inside the tub 3. A washing device Heating can be, for example, an electric resistor at the bottom of the bowl or a hot air supply system or a steam supply system.
[0068] [068] Advantageously, the washing machine 1 comprises a temperature sensor, not shown in the figures, to detect the temperature inside the bowl 3.
[0069] [069] The washing machine 1 advantageously comprises a control unit 33 connected to various parts of the washing machine 1 in order to guarantee its operation. The control unit 33 is preferably connected to the detergent supply system 5, the water outlet circuit 25, the heating device and the electric motor and receives information from the various sensors provided in the washing machine 1, such as the meter flow rate of the water inlet circuit 9, the temperature sensor, etc.
[0070] [070] The washing machine 1 advantageously comprises an interface unit 34 connected to the control unit 33, accessible to the user and through which the user can select and define the washing parameters, such as, for example, a washing program. desired wash. Usually, other parameters can be optionally entered by the user, for example, the washing temperature, the turning speed, the load in terms of the weight of the laundry to be washed, etc.
[0071] [071] Based on the parameters acquired by said interface 34, the control unit 33 defines and controls the various parts of the washing machine 1 in order to execute the desired washing program.
[0072] [072] The preferred mode of washing machine 1 and detergent supply system 5 works as follows.
[0073] [073] The laundry to be washed is first placed inside drum 4. Operating on interface unit 34, the user selects the desired washing program depending, for example, on the type and level of dirt of the products to be washed. In addition, as previously mentioned, in a preferred mode, it is possible for the user to enter some parameters directly through the interface unit 34, for example, the washing temperature value, the rotation speed of drum 4 in the turning phase, the wash cycle duration, etc.
[0074] [074] The user loads a preset quantity Qd of detergent D sufficient to wash the laundry. The user loads the preset amount Qd of detergent into container 6 through hole 7. Hole 7 is easily accessible by opening the access door 8.
[0075] [075] Once the user has selected the desired washing program, the control unit 33 sets the washing machine 1 in order to start the washing cycle.
[0076] [076] In an additional mode, the selection of the desired washing program can be carried out before placing the laundry in drum 4.
[0077] [077] A first quantity Q1w of clean water W is then introduced into container 6 through the supply pipe 10 through the opening of the first inlet valve 12.
[0078] [078] The first quantity Q1w of clean water W introduced in container 6 can be measured, during its introduction, for example, by a flow meter provided in the inlet water line 9, or by processing other parameters, for example, the pressure of the water delivered and the duration of water delivery; thus, it is possible to introduce in the container 6 exactly the preset quantity Q1w of clean water W.
[0079] [079] The preset quantity Qd of detergent D and the first quantity Q1w of clean water W inside the container 6 form a washing solution S intended to soak the laundry.
[0080] [080] The recirculation mixing pump 21 is then activated to recirculate the liquid inside the container 6 in order to prepare a uniform washing solution S.
[0081] [081] In fact, the recirculation process allows the preparation of a uniform washing solution S in which the detergent D is dissolved or dispersed appropriately in clean water W.
[0082] [082] The recirculation process takes place for a predetermined period of time in order to ensure a good mix of detergent D in clean water W.
[0083] [083] The washing solution S is then introduced into the bowl 3 through the delivery tube 15 through the opening of the delivery valve 16.
[0084] [084] Once the washing solution S has been introduced into bowl 3, the washing program can continue with the following phases of the selected washing cycle.
[0085] [085] In the following phases of the wash cycle, when additional amounts of clean water are required, such as during the rinse phase, the detergent supply system 5 can preferably be used to supply such water inside the tub 3 .
[0086] [086] The required clean water can flow through the supply pipe 10, the container 6 and the delivery pipe 15 through the opening of the first inlet valve 12 and the delivery valve 16.
[0087] [087] In an additional embodiment, in which a supply valve along the supply tube 10 is provided, the activation of the supply pump is advantageously performed during opening of the first inlet valve 12 and delivery valve 16. In order to analogous, in the case where a delivery pump along the delivery tube 15 is provided, the activation of the delivery pump is advantageously performed during the opening of the first intake valve 12 and delivery valve 16.
[0088] [088] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, not shown, the washing machine 1 may comprise a separate water supply pipe, separate from the detergent supply system 5, adapted to supply the required clean water directly in the tub 3.
[0089] [089] The provision of the container 6 within the housing 2 and the provision of the mixing device 20 associated with the container 6 leads to obtaining a uniform washing solution S to easily wash the laundry.
[0090] [090] The size of the container 6 can be advantageously chosen in order to receive a minimum preset amount of the washing solution S.
[0091] [091] In a preferred embodiment, the size of the container 6 is advantageously chosen so that at least 1 liter of the washing solution S can be contained.
[0092] [092] Figure 5 shows a construction variant of the detergent supply system 35.
[0093] [093] This detergent supply system 35 differs from the detergent supply system 5 shown in Figure 3 in that the mixing device 40 comprises a mechanical mixing device. The mechanical mixing device preferably comprises turbine blades 41 arranged inside the container 6. The turbine blades 41 can be moved properly to achieve a uniform mixing of the solution S inside the container 6. For this purpose, rotations of the turbine blades 41 can be advantageously obtained by means of an electric motor connected to them. In an additional embodiment, the turbine blades 41 can be moved directly by the action of the water flow that comes from the supply pipe 10 when the container 6 is filled with water W. In this case, any type of actuation medium for the blades of turbine 41 can be advantageously avoided.
[0094] [094] With reference to Figures 6 to 8, an additional construction variant of the detergent supply system 55 is described.
[0095] [095] This detergent supply system 55 differs from the detergent supply system 5 shown in Figure 3 in that it comprises a container 56 which is opened in its upper part in order to define an orifice 57, as shown in Figure 8 The container 56 is preferably slidable in relation to the housing 2 and can be positioned in a first closed operating condition, as shown in Figure 6 and in a second open operating condition, as shown in Figures 7 and 8.
[0096] [096] In the second operating condition of the detergent supply system 55, the container 56 can be easily filled by the user with detergent D through orifice 57.
[0097] [097] In the first operating condition, the detergent supply system 55 can operate normally as described above with reference to the first preferred embodiment of Figures 1 to 4.
[0098] [098] This modality, therefore, facilitates the loading of detergent D into the container 56.
[0099] [099] The positioning of the container 56 in the second operating condition can be advantageously obtained, for example, with the use of a flexible supply tube 10 and a flexible delivery tube 15 which follows the sliding movement of the container 56.
[0100] [0100] In additional modalities, the connection between the container 56 and the supply and delivery tubes 10 and 15 can be removable, such as, for example, a pressure fitting or a quick fitting, in order to guarantee a firm connection in the first operating condition and a quick disconnect when moved towards the second operating condition.
[0101] [0101] With reference to Figures 9 to 12, an additional construction variant of the detergent supply system 65 is described.
[0102] [0102] In this mode, the detergent supply system 65 is associated with a washing / rinsing liquid dispenser 60 (that is, a device adapted to dispense water and / or water mixed with washing or rinsing products). The dispenser 60 comprises a box-shaped housing 61, indicated by a dashed line in Figures 9 and 10, connected to the external housing 2, internally to the latter, preferably by means of suitable fixation, comprising, for example, screws or rivets, not illustrated, or also glue, or welding.
[0103] [0103] The housing 61 has an advantageous substantially parallelepiped shape and is connected to the front surface of the external housing 2, opportunely in an upper region of the latter, positioned above the bowl 3.
[0104] [0104] Housing 61 contains a removable drawer 66, indicated by a dashed line in Figures 9 and 10, which can be extracted from housing 61 as it protrudes from the outer housing 2. Removable drawer 66 is advantageously slidable in relation to frame 2 and can be positioned in a first closed operating condition, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, and in a second open operating condition, as shown in Figures 11 and 12.
[0105] [0105] Drawer 66 has one or more compartments 67, 68 and 69 adapted to be filled with washing products and / or rinses, not shown. For example, it may comprise a main washing detergent compartment 67, a bleach receiving compartment 68 and a fabric softener receiving compartment 69.
[0106] [0106] In the second operating condition, compartments 67, 68 and 69 can be easily filled by the user with the respective products.
[0107] [0107] Compartments 67, 68 and 69 communicate with the bottom of housing 61, in which a liquid delivery circuit 75 is advantageously provided to connect compartments 67, 68 and 69 to bowl 3. The delivery circuit of liquid 75 is adapted to allow the flow of a liquid into the bowl 3 by gravity. The liquid delivery circuit 75 preferably comprises a main delivery tube 76.
[0108] [0108] Advantageously, the dispenser 60 comprises a water supply circuit 70 associated with the housing 61 and positioned above the drawer 66 in such a way as to allow the flow of water to one or more of the compartments 67, 68 and 69.
[0109] [0109] The water supply circuit 70 preferably comprises inlet lines 80, 81, 82 connected to an external water supply line for the supply of cold water and provided with the respective control valves 71, 72 and 73. The valves control units 71, 72 and 73 are timely activated by the control unit 33 to selectively supply water to compartments 67, 68 and 69.
[0110] [0110] In compartments 67, 68 and 69, water mixes with the washing and / or rinsing products contained therein and then flows into bowl 3 through the main delivery tube 76 of the liquid delivery circuit 75.
[0111] [0111] The dispenser can be, for example, the dispenser described in EP2241669 which is assigned to the same assignee as the present application and is thus incorporated by reference.
[0112] [0112] The detergent supply system 65 advantageously comprises a container 86 provided with an orifice 87 which can be closed by means of an access door 88 associated with the housing 2.
[0113] [0113] Opening the access door 88 allows the insertion of a suitable quantity Qd of detergent D into the container 86.
[0114] [0114] The detergent supply system 65 advantageously comprises an inlet water line 89 for supplying clean water W to container 86.
[0115] [0115] The inlet water line 89 preferably comprises a supply pipe 90, connected to an external water supply line, provided with an appropriately controlled first inlet valve 92.
[0116] [0116] The inlet water line 89 also preferably comprises a water flow sensor, for example, a flow meter, which makes it possible to calculate the amount of water W supplied to the container 86.
[0117] [0117] The detergent supply system 65 advantageously comprises an emission circuit 94 to allow removal of liquid from the container 86.
[0118] [0118] The emission circuit 94 preferably comprises a delivery tube 95 provided with an appropriately controlled delivery valve 97.
[0119] [0119] The delivery tube 95 preferably ends with its end piece 95a in correspondence to the main washing detergent compartment 67 of the removable drawer 66.
[0120] [0120] The detergent supply system 65 advantageously comprises a mixing device 100 which is applied to the container 86 and comprises a recirculating mixing pump 101, an inlet connection line 102 connecting the recirculating mixing pump 101 to the container 86 and an outlet connection line 103 that connects the recirculating mixing pump 101 to container 86.
[0121] [0121] The recirculating mixing pump 101 is activated to recirculate the liquid inside the container 86. The recirculating mixing pump 101 draws liquid from the container 86 through the inlet connection line 102 and discharges the withdrawn liquid back to container 86 via outlet connection line 103.
[0122] [0122] In a preferred embodiment, the container 86 and the housing 61 of the dispenser 60 form a module that is applied to the housing 2 by means of suitable fastening means.
[0123] [0123] The preferred mode of washing machine 1 and detergent supply system 65 works as follows.
[0124] [0124] The laundry to be washed is first placed inside the drum 4. Operating on interface unit 34, the user selects the desired washing program depending, for example, on the type and level of dirt of the products to be washed. In addition, as previously mentioned, in a preferred mode, it is possible for the user to enter some parameters directly through the interface unit 34, for example, the washing temperature value, the rotation speed of drum 4 in the turning phase, the wash cycle duration, etc.
[0125] [0125] The user loads a preset quantity Qd of detergent D sufficient to wash the laundry. The user loads the preset amount of detergent Qd into container 86 through orifice 87. Orifice 87 is easily accessible by opening the access door 88.
[0126] [0126] Once the user has selected the desired washing program, the control unit 33 sets the washing machine 1 in order to start the washing cycle.
[0127] [0127] A first quantity Q1w of clean water W is then introduced into the container 86 through the supply pipe 90 through the opening of the first intake valve 92.
[0128] [0128] The first quantity Q1w of clean water W introduced in container 86 can be measured, during its introduction, for example, by a flow meter provided in the inlet water line 89, or by processing other parameters, for example, the pressure of the water delivered and the duration of water delivery; thus, it is possible to introduce into the 86 container exactly the preset quantity Q1w of clean water W.
[0129] [0129] The preset quantity Qd of detergent D and the first quantity Q1w of clean water W inside the container 86 form a washing solution S intended to soak the laundry.
[0130] [0130] The recirculating mixing pump 101 is then activated to recirculate the liquid inside the container 86 in order to prepare a uniform washing solution S.
[0131] [0131] In fact, the recirculation process allows the preparation of a uniform washing solution S in which the detergent D is dissolved or dispersed appropriately in clean water W.
[0132] [0132] The recirculation process takes place for a predetermined period of time tr in order to ensure a good mix of detergent D in clean water W.
[0133] [0133] The washing solution S is then introduced into the main washing detergent compartment 67 of the removable drawer 66 through the delivery tube 95 by activating the delivery pump 97. The washing solution S can preferably be introduced into the compartment of main washing detergent 67 in a single step or, in a different mode, in successive steps by sequential activation of the delivery pump 97.
[0134] [0134] From the main washing detergent compartment 67, the washing solution S can then be directly introduced into the bowl 3 through the main delivery tube 76 of the liquid delivery circuit 75.
[0135] [0135] In an additional embodiment, the washing solution S introduced into the main washing detergent compartment 67 of the removable drawer 66 through the delivery tube 95 and coming from the container 86 can be mixed with a second quantity Q2W of clean water W.
[0136] [0136] The second quantity Q2W of clean water W is advantageously introduced into the main washing detergent compartment 67 through the water supply circuit 70 by opening the respective valve 71.
[0137] [0137] The second quantity Q2w of clean water W can preferably be introduced in a single step or, in a different mode, in successive steps by sequentially opening the valve 71.
[0138] [0138] Once the introduction of the washing solution S into the bowl 3 has been completed, with or without the addition of a second quantity Q2W of clean water W, the washing program can continue with the following phases of the washing cycle selected.
[0139] [0139] The amount of the second quantity Q2W of clean water W added to the washing solution S depends mainly on the amount (that is, weight) of laundry loaded and the type of laundry. In fact, for example, cotton absorbs much more water than synthetic fibers and therefore a certain amount of clothing made from cotton requires, in order to be completely soaked, much more water than the same amount of clothing made from synthetic fibers. . The control unit 33 can be advantageously configured in such a way as to determine (for example, to calculate by applying a preset algorithm or to select from a series of stored values) which is the quantity of the first quantity Q1w and also of the second quantity Q2W in order to obtain a suitable detergent to water ratio and therefore to obtain better washing performances.
[0140] [0140] The weight of the clothes can be obtained by the control unit 33 in different ways. The weight can be, for example, one of the parameters entered by the user when defining the washing program or it can be advantageously obtained by means of suitable weight sensors supplied in the washing machine 1, for example, sensors that can be associated with the dampers of bowl 3.
[0141] [0141] Clearly any other method can be used to determine the amount of clothing loaded.
[0142] [0142] In the following phases of the wash cycle, when additional amounts of clean water are required, such as during the rinse phase, the detergent supply system 65 can be used to supply such water inside the tub 3.
[0143] [0143] In a preferred embodiment, the required clean water flows through the supply pipe 90, the container 86, the delivery pipe 95, the main washing detergent compartment 67, the water delivery circuit 75 and finally reaches the vat 3. During this phase, the first intake valve 92 and the delivery pump 97 of the emission circuit 94 are actuated appropriately by the control unit 33.
[0144] [0144] In an additional embodiment, the required clean water can be supplied by flowing it through the main washing detergent compartment 67 of drawer 66, bypassing the detergent supply system 65. In this case, the required clean water flows through of the water supply circuit 70 of the dispenser 60, the main washing detergent compartment 67, the water delivery circuit 75 and finally reaches the bowl 3.
[0145] [0145] It should be noted that, in this modality, the washing machine can operate in a traditional way, that is, with the use of the dispenser 60 and the removable drawer 66 in a traditional way by introducing detergent D into the compartment. main wash 67. In this case, the selected wash cycle will not provide the use of the detergent supply system 65 and will not provide the detergent D and clean water W.
[0146] [0146] Advantageously, the interface unit 34 can be supplied with a program selector that allows the user to select between a traditional washing program or a different program that involves the mixing phase. The program selector can be, for example, a mechanical button or a touchscreen selector on an interface display.
[0147] [0147] In the additional embodiment, the washing solution S of the container 86 can be inserted into any of the other compartments 68, 69 of the removable drawer 66. In that case, the delivery tube 95 of the emission circuit 94 will preferably end with its piece terminal 95a corresponding to the selected compartment 68, 69.
[0148] [0148] In Figure 13, a preferred embodiment of the detergent supply system 65 of the type shown in Figure 9 is disclosed.
[0149] [0149] In this detergent supply system 65, the mixing device 100 is advantageously applied to the bottom part 86a of the container 86 in a position close to its orifice 87.
[0150] [0150] The container 86 further comprises a separation wall 150 in order to define a first containment portion 151 and a second containment portion 152 within the container 86.
[0151] [0151] The inlet water line 89 with the supply pipe 90 and the first inlet valve 92 is properly positioned on the first containment portion 151.
[0152] [0152] The detergent D is advantageously inserted in the first containment portion 151 through the orifice 87 by the user and the water W is advantageously conducted in the same first containment portion 151 by the inlet water line 89.
[0153] [0153] The liquid recirculation takes place in the first containment portion 151 when the recirculation mixing pump 101 is activated.
[0154] [0154] More particularly, the detergent and the water are substantially mixed along the inlet connection line 102 and the outlet connection line 103 that connects the recirculating mixing pump 101 to the container 86.
[0155] [0155] Once solution S has been properly mixed in the first containment portion 151, an additional amount of water is delivered through the inlet water line 89 in order to increase the level of solution S within the first portion of containment 151. Solution S then passes over the separation wall 150 and reaches the second adjacent containment portion 152 of container 86. From there, as described above, emission circuit 94 allows removal of solution S which is driven towards the main washing detergent compartment 67 of the removable drawer 66 by activating the delivery pump 97.
[0156] [0156] In the additional mode, solution S can be directed directly towards bowl 3. In this case, solution S can flow through the delivery tube 95 by gravity and the delivery pump can be omitted.
[0157] [0157] Figures 14 to 16 show a construction variant of the previous modality shown in Figures 9 to 12.
[0158] [0158] This modality differs from the previous one in that the detergent supply system 105 comprises a container 106 that is open in its upper part so that it defines an orifice 107, as shown in Figure 15. The container 106 is slidable in relative to the housing 2 and forms an integral unit 108 with removable drawer 66, where integral unit 108 and removable drawer 66 are both indicated by a dashed line in Figures 13 and 14. Container 106 and removable drawer 66 are received in a common receiving housing 111.0 container 106 and the removable drawer 66, therefore, advantageously form a module which is applied to the housing 2 by means of suitable fastening means.
[0159] [0159] The container 106 and the removable drawer 66 can both be positioned in a first closed operating condition, as shown in Figure 14 and in a second open operating condition, as shown in Figures 15 and 16.
[0160] [0160] In the second operating condition, container 106 and compartments 67, 68, 69 can be easily filled with detergent D and other products, that is, bleach, softener, etc.
[0161] [0161] In the modalities described and illustrated above, the orifice of the container is directly accessible from outside the housing. In additional embodiments, however, one or more intermediate containers can be present between the container and the outside. For example, an intermediate detergent storage box easily accessible from the outside can be positioned inside the housing. The storage box can be completely filled with detergent by the user and, when necessary, preset amounts of detergent can be removed from it and, in due course, taken to the container for use according to the washing cycle described above.
[0162] [0162] It has thus been shown that the present invention allows all defined objectives to be achieved. In particular, it becomes possible to obtain a washing machine with a detergent mixing system which has a reduced construction complexity in relation to the washing machine of the known type.
[0163] [0163] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the particular modalities shown in the figures, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific modalities illustrated and described in the present document; on the contrary, additional variants of the embodiments described in the present document are within the scope of the present invention, which is defined in the claims.
[0164] [0164] It is emphasized that the washing machines illustrated in the attached figures are of the front loading type; however, it is clear that the invention can also be applied to a top loading washing machine, substantially without any modification.

权利要求:
Claims (10)
[0001]
WASHING MACHINE (1), comprising: - a carcass (2) that supports a washing tank (3) external to a washing drum (4) suitable for receiving the laundry to be washed; - a detergent supply system (5; 35; 55; 65; 105) comprising a mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) and an inlet water line (9, 89) to supply clean water ( W) the mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106), the inlet water line (9, 89) comprising a supply pipe (10, 90) connected to an external water supply line provided with a valve controlled intake (12, 92), the mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) being suitable for receiving detergent (D) and clean water (W), and comprising a mixing device (20; 40; 100 ) suitable for mixing detergent (D) and clean water (W) in the mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) to form a washing solution (S), in which the mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) and the mixing device (20; 40; 100) are arranged inside the housing (2) and the mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) comprises an inlet (7; 57; 87; 107) accessible from outside the housing (2) for the insertion of detergent (D) and an outlet (14; 94) p To deliver the washing solution (S) to the washing bowl (3), characterized in that the mixing device (20; 40; 100) comprises a recirculation device (20; 100) and a recirculation circuit (22, 23; 102; 103) with a recirculation pump (21; 101).
[0002]
WASHING MACHINE (1), according to claim 1, characterized in that the mixing chamber (6; 86) is stationary in relation to said housing (2).
[0003]
WASHING MACHINE (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the mixing chamber (56; 106) is slidable in relation to the housing (2).
[0004]
WASHING MACHINE (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the detergent (D) and the clean water (W) are mixed along the recirculation circuit (102; 103).
[0005]
WASHING MACHINE (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises a dispenser (60) having at least one compartment (67; 68; 69) suitable for receiving washing products and / or rinsing and the outlet (94) of the mixing chamber (86; 106) communicates with at least one compartment (67; 68; 69).
[0006]
WASHING MACHINE (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the dispenser (60) and the mixing chamber (86; 106) form a module connectable to the housing (2).
[0007]
WASHING MACHINE (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 6, characterized in that the outlet (94) comprises a delivery pump (97).
[0008]
WASHING MACHINE (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the dispenser (60) comprises a removable drawer (66).
[0009]
WASHING MACHINE (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the removable drawer (66) and the mixing chamber (106) form an integral unit (108) slidable in relation to the housing (2).
[0010]
WASHING MACHINE (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises an interface unit (34) by means of which a user can select a washing program using the mixing chamber (6; 56; 86; 106) to form a washing solution (S).

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同族专利:

公开号 | 公开日

EP2540902A1|2013-01-02|

CN103764894B|2016-05-18|

CN103764894A|2014-04-30|

AU2012277902B2|2015-01-29|

US9637857B2|2017-05-02|

AU2012277902A1|2013-05-02|

EP2540902B1|2020-05-13|

US20140165663A1|2014-06-19|

RU2594962C2|2016-08-20|

BR112013033893A2|2017-02-14|

RU2014103013A|2015-08-10|

WO2013000914A1|2013-01-03|

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法律状态:
2018-04-03| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according art. 34 industrial property law|

2019-07-30| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: suspension of the patent application procedure|

2020-09-01| B09A| Decision: intention to grant|

2020-11-24| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 26/06/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

优先权:

申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

EP11172257.5|2011-06-30|

EP11172257.5A|EP2540902B1|2011-06-30|2011-06-30|Laundry washing machine|

PCT/EP2012/062362|WO2013000914A1|2011-06-30|2012-06-26|Laundry washing machine|

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