U.S. patent application number 12/420473 was filed with the patent office on 2009-10-08 for washing machine.
Invention is credited to Jae Hyuk JANG, Min-Gyu JO, Young Suk KIM, Hyun Seok SEO.
Application Number | 20090249840 12/420473 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41132018 |
Filed Date | 2009-10-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090249840 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
JO; Min-Gyu ; et
al. |
October 8, 2009 |
WASHING MACHINE
Abstract
A washing machine includes a cabinet constituting the external
appearance of the washing machine, a tub mounted in the cabinet for
receiving wash water, a drum rotatably mounted in the tub for
receiving laundry to be washed, a circulation unit for circulating
wash water in the inner lower part of the tub through the upper
part of the tub, and at least one circulation nozzle for spraying
the wash water, supplied by the circulation unit, inwardly of the
drum along a rotation axis of the drum in a longitudinal direction
of the drum. According to the present invention, it is possible to
improve washing or rinsing efficiency of the washing machine.
Inventors: |
JO; Min-Gyu; (Seoul, KR)
; SEO; Hyun Seok; (Seoul, KR) ; KIM; Young
Suk; (Seoul, KR) ; JANG; Jae Hyuk; (Seoul,
KR) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BIRCH STEWART KOLASCH & BIRCH
PO BOX 747
FALLS CHURCH
VA
22040-0747
US
|
Family ID: |
41132018 |
Appl. No.: |
12/420473 |
Filed: |
April 8, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
68/5C ;
68/58 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 39/083 20130101;
D06F 39/088 20130101; D06F 39/008 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
68/5.C ;
68/58 |
International
Class: |
D06F 23/02 20060101
D06F023/02; D06F 39/08 20060101 D06F039/08; D06B 1/00 20060101
D06B001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 8, 2008 |
KR |
10-2008-0032525 |
Claims
1. A washing machine comprising: a cabinet; a tub provided in the
cabinet for accommodating wash water therein; a drum rotatably
provided in the tub for rotation about a generally horizontal axis
and for accommodating laundry to be washed; a circulation unit for
circulating wash water located in the inner lower part of the tub;
and at least one circulation nozzle for spraying the wash water
supplied by the circulation unit into the drum along the inside of
the drum between a front portion of the drum and a rear portion of
the drum.
2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the at least
one circulation nozzle is configured to spray the wash water from
the front portion of the drum to the rear portion of the drum.
3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the at least
one circulation nozzle is directly mounted at the tub.
4. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein the at least
one circulation nozzle is mounted adjacent to an opening of the tub
at an upper part of the tub.
5. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein the at least
one circulation nozzle protrudes inwardly of the drum such that the
at least one circulation nozzle prevents the laundry from being
stuck between the tub and the drum.
6. The washing machine according to claim 3, further comprising: a
steam generator for generating steam to be supplied into the drum;
and a steam nozzle for spraying the steam supplied from the steam
generator into the drum.
7. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein the steam
nozzle is directly mounted to an upper portion of the tub adjacent
to an opening of the tub.
8. The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising a
water outlet for supplying the wash water into the drum in a
direction different from the circulation nozzle.
9. The washing machine according to claim 8, wherein the
circulation nozzle and the water outlet are directly mounted to the
tub.
10. The washing machine according to claim 9, wherein the
circulation nozzle and the water outlet are mounted adjacent to an
opening of the tub such that the circulation nozzle and the water
outlet are located symmetrical to each other from the middle of the
upper part of the tub.
11. The washing machine according to claim 8, wherein the
circulation nozzle is directed toward a center of the drum, and the
water outlet is directed toward an entrance of the drum.
12. The washing machine according to claim 11, wherein the water
pressure of the wash water supplied to the circulation nozzle is
higher than that of the wash water supplied to the water
outlet.
13. The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a
water outlet for supplying the wash water into the drum in a
direction different from the circulation nozzle; a steam generator
for generating steam to be supplied into the drum; and a steam
outlet for supplying the steam into the drum.
14. The washing machine according to claim 13, wherein the water
outlet comprises a spray nozzle configured to spray the wash water
into the drum.
15. The washing machine according to claim 13, wherein the steam
outlet comprises a spray nozzle configured to spray the steam into
the drum.
16. The washing machine according to claim 13, wherein the
circulation nozzle, the water outlet, and the steam outlet are
directly mounted to the tub at an upper part of the tub adjacent to
an opening of the tub.
17. The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a
water outlet for supplying the wash water into the drum in a
direction different from the circulation nozzle; a steam generator
for generating steam to be supplied into the drum; and a steam
outlet for supplying the steam into the drum, the steam outlet
being formed as one body with one of the circulation nozzle and the
water outlet.
18. The washing machine according to claim 17, wherein the
circulation nozzle, the water outlet, and the steam outlet are
directly mounted to the tub at an upper part of the tub adjacent to
an opening of the tub.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of Korean Patent
Application No. 10-2008-0032525, filed on Apr. 8, 2008, which is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set
forth herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a washing machine, and more
particularly, to a washing machine with improved washing or rinsing
efficiency.
[0004] 2. Discussion of the Related Art
[0005] Washing machines may generally be classified as a top
loading type washing machine or a front loading type washing
machine. An example of the front loading type washing machine is a
drum type washing machine.
[0006] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the internal
structure of a drum type washing machine, and FIG. 2 is a side
sectional view of FIG. 1.
[0007] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the drum type washing machine
includes a tub 20 mounted in a cabinet 10 for receiving wash water
and a drum rotatably mounted in the tub 20. Wash water is received
in the tub 20, and laundry to be washed is received in the drum 30.
In the drum type washing machine, the drum 30 is rotated so that
the laundry is lifted and dropped by lifters 32, and therefore, the
laundry is washed or rinsed.
[0008] In this case, the wash water is received in the tub 20, and
therefore, when the drum 30 is rotated, only the lower part of the
drum 30 is immersed in the wash water. Consequently, as shown in
the drawings, the drum type washing machine may further include a
circulation unit 40 for circulating wash water received in the
lower part of the tub 20.
[0009] The circulation unit 40 includes a circulation line 42
connected between the upper and lower parts of the tub 20 and a
circulation pump 44 for pumping wash water along the circulation
line 42. Also, a nozzle 46 is mounted at one end of the circulation
line 42 for supplying wash water into the tub 20.
[0010] The tub 20 is connected to an opening 60 of the cabinet 10
via a gasket 50 for preventing the leakage of wash water from the
tub 20. The nozzle 46 is provided at the gasket 50. Also, the
gasket 50 includes a jam preventing member 52 for preventing
laundry to be washed from being jammed between the tub 20 and the
drum 30.
[0011] However, with the nozzle 46, most of the circulation water,
supplied from the nozzle 46, is supplied only to the front part of
the drum 30, and not to the rear part of the drum 30. Although the
circulation water is supplied to the drum 30, therefore, the
circulation water is supplied to only the front part of the drum
30, with the result that the circulation water is not uniformly
supplied to the laundry to be washed.
[0012] Also, the gasket 50 is made of an elastic member, such as
rubber. Consequently, when a large amount of laundry to be washed
is received in the drum 30, especially when the laundry is received
in the drum 30 together with water, the tub 20 may slightly droop,
with the result that the gasket 50 is deformed. Therefore, the
circulation water supplied from the nozzle 46 supported by the
drooping gasket 50 is not supplied in the appropriate
directions.
[0013] Furthermore, the gasket 50 is provided with the jam
preventing member 52, with the result that the assembly process of
the gasket 50 is complicated and difficult, and, in addition, the
time necessary to manufacture the gasket 50 increases.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a washing
machine that substantially obviates one or more problems due to
limitations and disadvantages of the related art.
[0015] An object of the present invention is to provide a washing
machine that is capable of supplying circulation water in
predetermined directions.
[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
washing machine that is capable of supplying circulation water
along the inside of a drum in a longitudinal direction of the drum,
thereby improving washing or rinsing efficiency.
[0017] Additional advantages, objects, and features of the
invention will be set forth in part in the description which
follows and in part will become apparent to those having ordinary
skill in the art upon examination of the following or may be
learned from practice of the invention. The objectives and other
advantages of the invention may be realized and attained by the
structure particularly pointed out in the written description and
claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.
[0018] To achieve these objects and other advantages and in
accordance with the purpose of the invention, as embodied and
broadly described herein, a washing machine includes a cabinet
constituting the external appearance of the washing machine, a tub
mounted in the cabinet for receiving wash water, a drum rotatably
mounted in the tub for receiving laundry to be washed, a
circulation unit for circulating wash water in the inner lower part
of the tub through the upper part of the tub, and at least one
circulation nozzle for spraying the wash water, supplied by the
circulation unit, inwardly of the drum along a rotation axis of the
drum in a longitudinal direction of the drum.
[0019] In another aspect of the present invention, a washing
machine includes a tub mounted in a cabinet for receiving wash
water, a drum rotatably mounted in the tub for receiving laundry to
be washed, a circulation unit for circulating wash water in the
inner lower part of the tub through the upper part of the tub, a
first nozzle for spraying the wash water, supplied by the
circulation unit, inwardly of the drum along a rotation axis of the
drum in the longitudinal direction of the drum, and a second nozzle
for spraying the wash water inwardly of the drum in a spray
direction different from the first nozzle.
[0020] In another aspect of the present invention, a washing
machine includes a tub mounted in a cabinet for receiving wash
water, a drum rotatably mounted in the tub for receiving laundry to
be washed, a circulation unit for circulating wash water in the
inner lower part of the tub through the upper part of the tub, a
first nozzle for spraying the wash water, supplied by the
circulation unit, inwardly of the drum along a rotation axis of the
drum in the longitudinal direction of the drum, a second nozzle for
spraying the wash water inwardly of the drum in a spray direction
different from the first nozzle, a steam generator for generating
steam to be supplied into the drum, and a steam nozzle for spraying
the steam, supplied from the steam generator, into the drum.
[0021] In a further aspect of the present invention, a washing
machine includes a tub mounted in a cabinet for receiving wash
water, a drum rotatably mounted in the tub for receiving laundry to
be washed, a circulation unit for circulating wash water in the
inner lower part of the tub through the upper part of the tub, a
first nozzle for spraying the wash water, supplied by the
circulation unit, inwardly of the drum along a rotation axis of the
drum in the longitudinal direction of the drum, a second nozzle for
spraying the wash water inwardly of the drum in a spray direction
different from the first nozzle, a steam generator for generating
steam to be supplied into the drum, and a steam nozzle for spraying
the steam, supplied from the steam generator, into the drum, the
steam nozzle being integrated with the first nozzle or the second
nozzle.
[0022] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general
description and the following detailed description of the present
invention are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide
further explanation of the invention as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a
further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this application, illustrate embodiment(s) of
the invention and together with the description serve to explain
the principle of the invention. In the drawings:
[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the internal
structure of a drum type washing machine;
[0025] FIG. 2 is a side sectional view of FIG. 1;
[0026] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a circulation
nozzle of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0027] FIG. 4 is a schematic view illustrating the supply of
circulation water from the circulation nozzle of FIG. 3 into a
drum;
[0028] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a circulation
nozzle of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the
present invention;
[0029] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the
circulation nozzle according to any one of the previous embodiments
separated from a tub;
[0030] FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating the internal
structure of a washing machine according to another embodiment of
the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating a circulation nozzle of
FIG. 7 when viewed from above;
[0032] FIG. 9 is a schematic view illustrating the internal
structure of a washing machine according to another embodiment of
the present invention; and
[0033] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a dual nozzle of
a washing machine according to a further embodiment of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0034] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred
embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the
same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to
refer to the same or like parts.
[0035] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a circulation
nozzle that is capable of supplying circulation water along the
inside of a drum 30 in a longitudinal direction of the drum 30 in a
washing machine according to an embodiment of the present
invention. Meanwhile, components of the washing machine according
to the embodiment of the present invention identical to those of
the drum type washing machine of FIGS. 1 and 2 will not be
described hereinafter, and only the features of the washing machine
according to the embodiment of the present invention will be
described.
[0036] The washing machine according to the embodiment of the
present invention includes a cabinet 10 constituting the external
appearance of the washing machine, a tub 20 mounted in the cabinet
10 for receiving wash water, a drum 30 rotatably mounted in the tub
20 for receiving laundry to be washed, a circulation unit 40 for
circulating wash water in the inner lower part of the tub 20
through the upper part of the tub 20, and at least one circulation
nozzle 100 for spraying the wash water, supplied by the circulation
unit 40, inwardly of the drum 30 along a rotation axis of the drum
30 in a longitudinal direction of the drum 30.
[0037] In the washing machine according to the embodiment of the
present invention, at least one circulation nozzle 100 is provided
to supply the circulation water circulated by the circulation unit
40. Also, in the washing machine according to the embodiment of the
present invention, the circulation nozzle 100 supplies the
circulation water inwardly of the drum 30 along the rotation axis
of the drum 30 in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30. FIG. 4
is a schematic view illustrating the supply of circulation water
from the circulation nozzle 100 according to this embodiment into
the drum 30 in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30.
[0038] As shown in FIG. 4, the circulation nozzle 100 according to
this embodiment supplies the circulation water not only to the
front part of the drum 30 but also along the rotation axis of the
drum 30 in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30. The
circulation water is supplied from the front of the drum to the
rear of the drum at the interior thereof such that the wash water
is uniformly supplied to laundry to be washed in the drum 30.
Consequently, the laundry is uniformly wetted by the wash water,
whereby washing or rinsing efficiency is improved.
[0039] The improvement of the washing or rinsing efficiency is more
remarkable when a washing or rinsing operation is performed in a
penetration type washing mode. Here, the penetration type washing
mode is a washing mode in which a washing or rinsing operation is
carried out while the drum 30 is rotated at high speed, not at a
normal rotation speed of the drum, such that laundry clings to the
inner circumference of the drum 30. In this case, wash water
contained in the laundry penetrates the laundry by a centrifugal
force, and is then discharged out of the drum 30, during the
washing or rinsing operation.
[0040] In the penetration type washing mode, however, the drum is
rotated at high speed as compared to a rotation speed in the normal
washing mode. Consequently, it is preferred for wash water to be
supplied such that the wash water is maintained at a water level
lower than the gap between the tub 20 and the drum 30, and
therefore, a rotation resistance force is not applied to the drum
30 due to the wash water received in the tub 20.
[0041] Meanwhile, the wash water may be circulated to the upper
part of the drum 30 and the tub 20 by the circulation unit 40 such
that the wash water can be continuously supplied into the drum 30.
The supplied wash water penetrates the laundry by the high-speed
rotation of the drum 30, is discharged out of the drum 30, is
received at the bottom of the tub 20 along the inner wall of the
tub 20, is circulated to the upper part of the drum 30 and the tub
20, and is then supplied into the drum 30.
[0042] Consequently, when the wash water is supplied to the rear
part of the drum 30 in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30 by
the circulation nozzle 100 according to this embodiment, the
circulation water is uniformly supplied to the laundry to be
washed, with the result that washing efficiency is further improved
in the penetration type washing mode in which the drum 30 is
rotated. When a washing or rinsing operation is carried out not in
the penetration type washing mode, but in the normal washing mode,
on the other hand, it is possible to uniformly supply the
circulation water to laundry to be washed through the circulation
nozzle 100 according to this embodiment, with the result that the
washing or rinsing operation is carried out while the laundry is
sufficiently immersed in the wash water, and therefore, it is
possible to improve washing or rinsing efficiency.
[0043] Hereinafter, the circulation nozzle 100 provided in the
washing machine according to this embodiment will be described in
detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0044] Referring back to FIG. 3, the circulation nozzle 100 in the
washing machine according to this embodiment may be configured to
spray wash water not only to the front part of the drum 30 but also
in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30 such that the wash
water reaches the rear part of the drum 30. Preferably, the
circulation nozzle 100 is configured to spray the wash water into
the drum 30 in a plurality of directions such that the wash water
can be uniformly supplied to the laundry received in the drum
30.
[0045] Consequently, the circulation nozzle 100 according to this
embodiment may be configured to have a plurality of spray ports 110
directed inwardly of the drum 30. The respective spray ports 110
may be configured to spray the wash water to different drop
positions in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30.
Specifically, the respective spray ports 110 may be configured to
spray the wash water to different positions at predetermined
intervals from the front to the rear of the drum 30. As a result,
the wash water is supplied in the longitudinal direction of the
drum 30 while uniformly spreading from the front to the rear of the
drum 30.
[0046] Consequently, the laundry clinging to the inner
circumference of the drum 30 during the washing or rinsing
operation is supplied with wash water while being rotated along
with the drum 30. Also, even when the drum 30 is not rotated, and
therefore, the laundry gathers at the lower part of the drum, it is
possible to uniformly supply the wash water to the laundry.
[0047] Although not shown in the drawings, on the other hand, it is
possible to provide a plurality of circulation nozzles each having
a single spray port to spray wash water into the drum 30. When the
plurality of circulation nozzles each having the single spray port
are installed, however, the assembly process may be difficult.
Consequently, as shown in FIG. 3, the circulation nozzle 100
according to this embodiment may be configured in a structure in
which a plurality of spray ports are formed on a single case.
[0048] Meanwhile, the circulation nozzle 100 may be mounted at the
front of the drum 30 where an opening of the drum 30 is formed. In
this case, spray directions or spray speeds of the wash water
sprayed from the respective spray ports 110 are preferably set to
be different from each other so that the wash water is sprayed to
different positions from the front to the rear of the drum 30
through the respective spray ports 110. Consequently, the spray
ports 110 of the circulation nozzle 100 preferably have different
cross-sectional areas or different flow channels.
[0049] Specifically, it is possible to configure the circulation
nozzle 100 such that the spray ports 110 of the circulation nozzle
100 have different cross-sectional areas, and therefore, the wash
water sprayed through the respective spray ports 110 have different
water pressures. Here, on the assumption that the wash water passes
through the flow channels having the same configuration, the
smaller the cross-sectional areas of the spray ports 110 are, the
higher the water pressure the wash water is sprayed at. The larger
the cross-sectional areas of the spray ports 110 are, the lower the
water pressure the wash water is sprayed at. Consequently, the wash
water sprayed at the low water pressure through the spray ports of
large cross-sectional areas is sprayed in such a manner that the
wash water falls immediately after the spray of the wash water. On
the other hand, the wash water sprayed at the high water pressure
through the spray ports of small cross-sectional areas tends to go
straight in the direction in which the wash water is sprayed.
[0050] Consequently, the spray ports of the large cross-sectional
areas are provided to supply the wash water to the front of the
drum 30, and the spray ports of the small cross-sectional areas are
provided to supply the wash water to the rear of the drum 30.
[0051] Specifically, in the circulation nozzle 110 according to
this embodiment, the spray ports 110 formed in the direction
indicated by an arrow (a) may have small cross-sectional areas, and
the spray ports 110 formed in the direction indicated by an arrow
(b) may have large cross-sectional areas. Consequently, the spray
ports 110 formed in the direction indicated by an arrow (a) spray
the wash water at high water pressure, and the spray ports 110
formed in the direction indicated by an arrow (b) spray the wash
water at low water pressure.
[0052] Furthermore, the spray ports 110 of the circulation nozzle
100 may be connected to different flow channels 120. Consequently,
the spray speeds of the wash water sprayed through the respective
spray ports 110 of the circulation nozzle 110 may be different from
one another.
[0053] Specifically, the circulation nozzle 100 may be provided
with a plurality of flow channels, through which wash water,
introduced from the circulation unit 40, passes. The respective
flow channels 120 may be formed to correspond to the spray ports
110. Also, the flow channels 120 may be different from one another
such that the wash water passing through the respective flow
channels 120 is sprayed at different speeds.
[0054] For example, the wash water passing through the flow channel
120 formed in the vertical direction may fall immediately to the
front of the drum 30. On the other hand, the wash water passing
through the flow channel 120 horizontally extending inwardly of the
drum 30 has a speed component directed inwardly of the drum 30, and
therefore, the wash water can be sprayed to the rear of the drum
30. Consequently, when the spray port is connected to the flow
channel horizontally extending inwardly of the drum 30, the spray
port can supply the wash water to the rear of the drum in the
longitudinal direction of the drum. In conclusion, it is possible
to adjust the spray ports 110 such that the wash water falls to
different positions of the drum 30 according to the speed
components of the sprayed wash water. In this way, an entire
strip/area from the front of the drum 30 to the rear of the drum 30
is sprayed with wash water.
[0055] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the flow channels 120
connected to the spray ports 110 formed in the direction indicated
by the arrow (a) may be formed to be horizontally extended inwardly
of the drum 30 by a relatively longer distance, and the flow
channels 120 connected to the spray ports 110 formed in the
direction indicated by the arrow (b) may be formed to be extended
inwardly of the drum 30 by a relatively shorter distance. In
particular, it is possible to configure the spray ports 110 such
that the spray ports 110 are mounted in a step-shaped structure,
and therefore, the lengths of the respective flow channels 120
extending inwardly of the drum 30 are different from each
other.
[0056] In conclusion, the spray ports 110 arranged in the direction
indicated by the arrow (a) are connected to the flow channels 120
having relatively small cross-sectional areas and horizontally
extending inwardly of the drum 30, and the spray ports 110 arranged
in the direction indicated by the arrow (b) are connected to the
flow channels 120 having relatively large cross-sectional areas and
vertically extending inwardly of the drum 30. Consequently, the
wash water sprayed through the spray ports 110 arranged in the
direction indicated by the arrow (a) is sprayed inwardly of the
drum 30 at high water pressures while having horizontal speed
components, with the result that the wash water is sprayed to the
rear of the drum 30 in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30.
On the other hand, the wash water sprayed through the spray ports
110 arranged in the direction indicated by the arrow (b) has
vertical speed components and low water pressures, with the result
that the wash water does not reach the rear of the drum 30, but is
sprayed near the front of the drum 30.
[0057] In conclusion, it is possible for the circulation nozzle 100
according to this embodiment to uniformly spray the wash water from
the front to the rear of the drum 30 in the longitudinal direction
of the drum 30.
[0058] FIG. 3 illustrates a supply line 105 for supplying the
circulation water to the flow channels 120 and the spray ports 110.
Specifically, the circulation water, circulated by the circulation
unit 40, is supplied to the supply line 105 along the circulation
line 42, and is then supplied to the flow channels 120 and the
spray ports 110 through the supply line 105.
[0059] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a circulation
nozzle 100 of a washing machine according to another embodiment of
the present invention. The circulation nozzle 100 according to this
embodiment is different from the previous embodiment in that the
circulation nozzle 100 has a single spray port to supply
circulation water. Hereinafter, the difference between this
embodiment and the previous embodiment will be described.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 5, the circulation nozzle 100 according to
this embodiment sprays wash water through the single spray port
110. However, the circulation nozzle 100 may be provided with a
flow channel configured in a structure in which the width of the
flow channel gradually increases, and the height of the flow
channel gradually decreases, in the advance direction of the wash
water passing through the circulation nozzle 100. Consequently, the
wash water passing through the circulation nozzle 100 may be
sprayed while spreading in the lateral direction.
[0061] This uses a phenomenon in which, when water supplied at a
regular water pressure flows along a flow channel, the water widely
spreads and is sprayed at high water pressure while the water
passes through a nozzle end, the width of which increases and the
height of which decreases. In this structure, therefore, it is
possible to supply the wash water into the drum 20 in several
directions, although the wash water is sprayed through the single
spray port 110.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 5, the flow channel 120, formed in the
circulation nozzle 100, is preferably configured in a shape in
which the cross-sectional height of the flow channel 120 gradually
decreases and the width of the flow channel 120 gradually increases
in the advance direction of the wash water. Furthermore, it is
preferred to form the flow channel 120 such that the
cross-sectional area of the flow channel 120 gradually decreases
although the width of the flow channel 120 gradually increases in
the advance direction of the wash water. Consequently, the spray
port 110, through which the wash water is sprayed, is preferably
formed in an elongated shape to define the smallest cross-sectional
area of the flow channel 120.
[0063] In this case, the cross-sectional area of the flow channel
120 in the circulation nozzle 100 gradually decreases in the
advance direction of the wash water, with the result that the water
pressure of the wash water gradually increases. Consequently, the
wash water is supplied into the drum 30 at high water pressure
while easily spreading in the lateral direction of the flow channel
120.
[0064] In addition, guide ribs 130 may be mounted in the flow
channel 120, along which the wash water flows, for guiding the
spreading of the wash water in the lateral direction of the flow
channel 120. The guide ribs 130 are mounted in an inclined fashion
in the advance direction of the wash water for guiding the wash
water such that the wash water can uniformly spread in the lateral
direction of the flow channel 120.
[0065] Meanwhile, when the circulation nozzle 100 according to this
embodiment is mounted such that the spray port 110 is disposed
parallel to the front of the drum 30, the wash water may not be
supplied to a specific position in the drum 30, although the drum
30 is rotated. Consequently, the circulation nozzle 100 is
preferably formed such that the spray port 110 is inclined at a
predetermined angle to the front of the drum 30.
[0066] Furthermore, the circulation nozzle 100 is preferably
mounted in an inclined fashion toward the drum 30 such that the
wash water sprayed from one end of the spray port is supplied to
the lower front of the drum 30, and the wash water sprayed from the
other end of the spray port is supplied to the lower rear of the
drum 30.
[0067] Meanwhile, the circulation nozzle 100 may be provided at the
gasket 50 (see FIG. 2), interconnecting the tub 20 and the door 60
(see FIG. 2), in any one of the washing machines according to the
previous embodiments. In this case, however, it may be difficult to
supply the circulation water in predetermined directions due to the
drooping of the tub 20 when laundry to be washed and wash water are
received in the tub 20.
[0068] Consequently, the circulation nozzle 100 according to each
embodiment is preferably directly provided in the tub 20.
Specifically, if the circulation nozzle 100 is directly mounted in
the tub 20, it is possible for the circulation nozzle 100 to supply
the circulation water inwardly of the tub 20 in predetermined
directions even when the tub 20 slightly droops. Hereinafter, a
detailed description thereof will be given with reference to the
accompanying drawings.
[0069] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the installation
of a circulation nozzle 100 to a tub 20 in a washing machine
according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 6, the circulation nozzle 100 may be
directly mounted to the tub 20 in the washing machine according to
this embodiment. Preferably, the circulation nozzle 100 is mounted
adjacent to an opening of the tub 20 at the upper part of the tub
20. In other words, the circulation nozzle is not mounted at the
gasket as in the washing machine of FIGS. 1 and 2, but is directly
mounted to the tub 20, whereby it is possible for the circulation
nozzle 100 to supply circulation water inwardly of the tub 20 and
the drum 30 in predetermined directions.
[0071] Specifically, a hole 22, connected to the circulation line
42, is formed at one side of the tub 20, i.e., at the upper side of
the tub 20 adjacent to the opening of the tub 20, and the
circulation nozzle 100 is mounted below the hole 22. Here, the
circulation nozzle 100 is detachably connected to the tub 20. A
boss 24 to which the circulation nozzle 100 is mounted may be
formed at one side of the tub 20. Consequently, the circulation
nozzle 100 is securely mounted to the boss 24 by means of coupling
members, such as bolts. Preferably, a circulation nozzle cover 26
is mounted at the outside of the circulation nozzle 100 for
preventing the separation of the circulation nozzle 100 from the
tub 20.
[0072] The circulation nozzle 100 may protrude from the tub 20
inwardly of the drum 30. When the circulation nozzle 100 protrudes
inwardly of the drum 30, laundry to be washed is prevented from
jamming between the drum 30 and the tub 20, during the rotation of
the drum 30. That is, in this embodiment, the circulation nozzle
100 is mounted to the tub 20 in a protruding fashion, whereby it is
possible for the circulation nozzle 100 to supply wash water in
predetermined directions, and, at the same time, it is possible to
prevent the laundry to be washed from jamming between the drum 30
and the tub 20.
[0073] The above-described circulation nozzle 100 is mounted to the
tub 20 as follows. A worker connects the supply line 105 of the
circulation nozzle 100 to the hole 22 formed at the tub 20 and
couples the circulation nozzle cover 26 to the boss 24. As a
result, the circulation nozzle 100 is mounted to the tub 20. In
this case, the circulation nozzle 100 may be disposed along the
front of the tub 20, as previously described.
[0074] Meanwhile, although not shown in the drawings, the washing
machine according to any one of the previous embodiments may
include a steam generator for selectively spraying steam into the
drum 30.
[0075] The steam generator is supplied with water from an
additional detachable water supply source, such as a faucet or a
cartridge. The steam generator heats the supplied water to generate
steam, which will be supplied into the drum 30. In this case, a
steam nozzle for spraying steam is preferably mounted at one end of
a steam line, along which the steam is supplied. The steam nozzle
may be mounted at one side of the tub 20. Preferably, the steam
nozzle is mounted adjacent to the opening of the tub 20.
[0076] Meanwhile, the washing machine according to any one of the
previous embodiments may include a plurality of circulation
nozzles, for circulating wash water. When the plurality of
circulation nozzles are provided, the circulation water is supplied
through the respective circulation nozzles, and therefore, it is
possible to uniformly wet laundry to be washed. Furthermore, it is
possible to more effectively perform a washing or rinsing operation
by changing spray directions of the circulation water supplied
through the respective circulation nozzles.
[0077] Hereinafter, a detailed description thereof will be given
with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0078] FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating the internal
structure of a washing machine according to another embodiment of
the present invention. The washing machine according to this
embodiment is different from the previous embodiments in that the
washing machine according to this embodiment includes two or more
circulation nozzles, preferably two circulation nozzles, for
circulating wash water in the tub 20 and spraying the wash water
inwardly of the drum 30 and the tub 20. Hereinafter, the
differenced will be described.
[0079] The washing machine according to this embodiment includes
two or more circulation nozzles for supplying the wash water
inwardly of the drum 30 and the tub 20 when the wash water received
at the inner lower part of the tub 20 is supplied by the
circulation of the wash water through the upper part of the tub 20.
FIG. 7 illustrates that the washing machine includes two
circulation nozzles. However, the number of the circulation nozzles
is not particularly restricted. For example, the washing machine
may include an appropriate number of circulation nozzles.
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the washing machine including two
circulation nozzles will be described.
[0080] The washing machine according to this embodiment may include
a first nozzle 200 for spraying circulation water inwardly of the
drum 30 along a rotation axis of the drum 30 in the longitudinal
direction of the drum 30 and a second nozzle 210 for spraying the
circulation water inwardly of the drum 30 in a spray direction
different from the first nozzle 200, when the circulation water is
supplied by the circulation unit 40.
[0081] That is, the washing machine according to this embodiment
includes the second nozzle 210 for spraying the circulation water
inwardly of the drum 30 in a spray direction different from the
first nozzle 200 in addition to the first nozzle 200 for supplying
the circulation water inwardly of the drum 30 in the longitudinal
direction of the drum 30. According to this embodiment, therefore,
it is possible to uniformly supply the circulation water inwardly
of the drum 30, thereby improving washing or rinsing
efficiency.
[0082] The first and second circulation nozzles 200 and 210
according to this embodiment may be directly mounted in the tub 20
in a manner similar to the previous embodiments. Preferably, the
first and second circulation nozzles 200 and 210 are mounted
adjacent to the opening of the tub 20. A method of directly
mounting the first and second circulation nozzles 200 and 210 to
the tub 20 will not be described, because this method is identical
to the method of directly mounting the circulation nozzle 100 to
the tub 20, which was previously described.
[0083] In this embodiment, meanwhile, the number of the circulation
nozzles is two. When the circulation nozzles are directly mounted
to the tub 20, both of the circulation nozzles may be located at
one side of the upper part of the tub 20. Preferably, however, the
two circulation nozzles are preferably mounted at the tub 20 such
that the circulation nozzles are symmetrical to each other the
middle of the upper part of the tub 20. That is, as shown in FIG.
7, the first nozzle 200 and the second nozzle 210 may be disposed
at opposite sides from the middle of the upper part of the tub
20.
[0084] In this case, the circulation line 42, extending from the
circulation unit 40, may diverge from a predetermined position
above the tub 20. Although not shown in the drawing, a valve may be
mounted at the diverging point of the circulation line 42 for
selectively supplying the circulation water to the first
circulation nozzle 200 or the second circulation nozzle 210 or
supplying the circulation water to both the first circulation
nozzle 200 and the second circulation nozzle 210.
[0085] Meanwhile, the first circulation nozzle 200, according to
this embodiment, for supplying the circulation water inwardly of
the drum 30 in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30 has a
construction similar to the circulation nozzle according to any one
of the previous embodiments, and therefore, a detailed description
thereof will not be given. Also, the second circulation nozzle 210
for supplying the circulation water in the direction different from
the first circulation nozzle 200 may have the same construction as
the first circulation nozzle 200. Alternatively, the second
circulation nozzle 210 may have the same construction as an
ordinary circulation nozzle.
[0086] When a plurality of circulation nozzles, for example two
circulation nozzles, are provided, as shown in FIG. 7, the
respective circulation nozzles are preferably located such that the
respective circulation nozzles are directed inwardly of the drum in
different directions.
[0087] For example, the first nozzle 200, which supplies the
circulation water inwardly of the drum 30 in the longitudinal
direction of the drum 30, may be disposed such that the first
nozzle 200 is directed toward the center of the drum 30, and the
second nozzle 210 may be disposed such that the second nozzle 210
is directed in the direction different from the first nozzle 200.
That is, the first nozzle 200 supplies the circulation water
inwardly of the drum 30 in the longitudinal direction of the drum
30, and therefore, it is preferred to dispose the first nozzle 200
such that the first nozzle 200 is directed toward the center of the
drum 30 to uniformly supply the circulation water from the front to
the rear of the drum 30. Moreover, the second nozzle 210 may be
disposed such that the second nozzle 210 is directed in the
direction different from the first nozzle 200. In this embodiment,
the second nozzle 210 may be disposed such that the second nozzle
210 is directed toward the entrance of the drum 30. Consequently,
the circulation water sprayed through the second nozzle 210 may be
supplied to the entrance of the drum 30, and the circulation water
sprayed through the first nozzle 200 may be supplied to the center
of the drum 30 in the longitudinal direction of the drum 30. As a
result, the circulation water is uniformly supplied throughout the
drum 30, whereby washing or rinsing efficiency is improved.
[0088] Meanwhile, when the first circulation nozzle 200 and the
second circulation nozzle 210 are mounted such that the first
circulation nozzle 200 and the second circulation nozzle 210 are
symmetrical to each other from the middle of the upper part of the
tub 20, flow channels connected to the spray ports of the first
nozzle 200 are preferably formed in directions corresponding to
positions where the wash water falls.
[0089] FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating the first circulation
nozzle 200 when the first circulation nozzle 200 is mounted while
being biased toward one side from the middle of the upper part of
the tub 20. As the first circulation nozzle 200 is mounted while
being biased toward one side from the middle of the upper part of
the tub 20, as shown in FIG. 8, the spray ports and the flow
channels of the first circulation nozzle 200 may be inclined at a
predetermined angle to the open front of the drum 30. In
particular, it is preferred for the spray ports formed at positions
far from the center of the drum 30 to be mounted inwardly of the
drum 30.
[0090] In this embodiment, when the first circulation nozzle 200,
is mounted at a position 35 to 45 degrees biased from the center of
the tub 20, the section of the first circulation nozzle 200, where
the spray ports are formed, may be inclined at an angle of 5 to 10
degrees to the open front of the drum 30. As a result, the wash
water sprayed through the first circulation nozzle 200 is sprayed
toward the lower end of the drum 30 in the longitudinal direction
of the drum 30. However, the inclination angle may be changed
depending upon the position where the first circulation nozzle 200
is installed. Also, the inclination angle may be changed within a
predetermined range depending upon the water pressure of the
sprayed wash water or an angle at which flow channels 220 are
formed.
[0091] Meanwhile, the first nozzle 200 is disposed as described
above, it is preferred that the water pressure of the circulation
water sprayed through the first nozzle 200 be higher than that of
the circulation water sprayed through the second nozzle 210. This
is because the circulation water sprayed through the second nozzle
210 is supplied to the entrance of the drum 30, and therefore, the
supply of the circulation water is satisfactorily achieved although
the water pressure of the circulation water is low; however, the
circulation water sprayed through the first nozzle 200 is supplied
from the front to the rear of the drum 30 in the longitudinal
direction of the drum 30, and therefore, the uniform supply of the
circulation water is not achieved unless the water pressure of the
circulation water is high.
[0092] Consequently, it is preferred to adjust the water pressure
of the circulation water supplied to the first nozzle 200, such
that the water pressure of the circulation water supplied to the
first nozzle 200 is higher than that of the circulation water
supplied to the second nozzle 210, by adjusting the sectional area
of the circulation line 42 adjacent to the first nozzle 200, such
that the sectional area of the circulation line 42 adjacent to the
first nozzle 200 is less than that of the circulation line adjacent
to the second nozzle 210, or providing an additional pump at a
position adjacent to the first nozzle 200.
[0093] FIG. 9 is a schematic view illustrating the internal
structure of a washing machine according to another embodiment of
the present invention. The washing machine according to this
embodiment is different from the previous embodiment shown in FIG.
8 in that the washing machine according to this embodiment further
includes a steam generator for supplying steam into the drum 30.
Hereinafter, the difference will be described.
[0094] Referring to FIG. 9, the washing machine according to this
embodiment may further include a steam generator 70 for selectively
supplying steam into the drum 30.
[0095] The steam generator 70 is supplied with water from an
additional detachable water supply source, such as a faucet or a
cartridge. The steam generator 70 heats the supplied water to
generate steam, which will be supplied into the drum 30.
[0096] In this case, a steam nozzle 74 for spraying steam is
preferably mounted at one end of a steam line 72, along which the
steam is supplied. The steam nozzle 74 may be mounted at one side
of the tub 20. Preferably, the steam nozzle 74 is mounted adjacent
to the opening of the tub 20.
[0097] In the washing machine according to this embodiment,
meanwhile, the steam nozzle 74 may be mounted while being biased
toward one side from the middle of the upper part of the tub 20.
FIG. 9 illustrates the steam nozzle 74 being biased toward the
second circulation nozzle 210. However, the installation position
of the steam nozzle 74 is not particularly restricted. For example,
the steam nozzle 74 may be mounted while being biased toward the
first circulation nozzle 200.
[0098] Meanwhile, when the steam nozzle 74 is mounted while being
biased toward the first circulation nozzle 200 or the second
circulation nozzle 210, the steam nozzle 74 and the first
circulation nozzle 200 or the second circulation nozzle 210 may be
provided separately from each other. Preferably, however, the steam
nozzle 74 is integrated with either the first circulation nozzle
200 or the second circulation nozzle 210.
[0099] That is, when the steam nozzle 74 is not separately provided
but is integrated with the first circulation nozzle 200 or the
second circulation nozzle 210 adjacent to the steam nozzle 74, it
is possible to achieve easy installation and assembly.
[0100] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a dual nozzle in
which the steam nozzle and the second circulation nozzle are
integrated with each other. However, the present invention is not
limited to this construction. For example, the integration between
the steam nozzle and the first circulation nozzle is also
possible.
[0101] Referring to FIG. 10, the steam nozzle 74 and the second
circulation nozzle 210 are integrated to constitute a dual nozzle
300, which is mounted adjacent to the opening of the tub 20. The
dual nozzle 300 may be detachably mounted to the tub 20.
Preferably, the dual nozzle 300 is mounted to the tub 20 as shown
in FIG. 6.
[0102] That is, two holes (not shown) are formed adjacent to the
opening of the tub 20, and a steam line and a diverging circulation
line 42 are connected to each hole, such that steam and circulation
water are supplied to the steam nozzle 74 and the second
circulation nozzle 210.
[0103] When the steam nozzle 74 and the second circulation nozzle
210 are integrated to constitute the dual nozzle 300, as described
above, it is possible to more easily assemble the washing machine
according to this embodiment within a short time.
[0104] Specifically, the dual nozzle 300 may include a connection
part 310 connected to the tub 20 and a nozzle cover 320 defining a
space where the steam nozzle 74 and the second circulation nozzle
210 are installed between the connection part 310 and the nozzle
cover 320. Consequently, the steam nozzle 74 and the second
circulation nozzle 210 are disposed between the connection part 310
and the nozzle cover 320, and the connection part 310 and the
nozzle cover 320 are mounted to the tub 20. As a result, the dual
nozzle 300 is mounted to the tub 20.
[0105] Meanwhile, a guide member 322 may be mounted at the inside
of the nozzle cover 320 for preventing steam and circulation water
from mixing with each other when the steam and the circulation
water are supplied through the steam nozzle 74 and the second
circulation nozzle 210, respectively. When both the steam and the
circulation water are supplied through the steam nozzle 74 and the
second circulation nozzle 210, respectively, the guide member 322
prevents the steam from condensing by the contact with the
circulation water.
[0106] As apparent from the above description, the washing machine
according to the present invention is constructed in a structure in
which the circulation nozzle is directly mounted in the tub.
Consequently, the washing machine according to the present
invention has the effect of supplying circulation water inwardly of
the drum in predetermined directions.
[0107] Also, the washing machine according to the present invention
is constructed in a structure in which circulation water is
supplied inwardly of the drum in the longitudinal direction of the
drum. Consequently, the washing machine according to the present
invention has the effect of uniformly supplying circulation water
to laundry to be washed.
[0108] Also, the washing machine according to the present invention
has the effect of improving washing or rinsing efficiency by
supplying circulation water inwardly of the drum in the
longitudinal direction of the drum.
[0109] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the present invention
without departing from the spirit or scope of the inventions. Thus,
it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications
and variations of this invention provided they come within the
scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *