U.S. patent application number 12/305607 was filed with the patent office on 2010-01-14 for washing machine and method for recovering metal ions in the same.
Invention is credited to Mugihei Ikemizu.
Application Number | 20100005838 12/305607 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38981279 |
Filed Date | 2010-01-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100005838 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ikemizu; Mugihei |
January 14, 2010 |
WASHING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR RECOVERING METAL IONS IN THE
SAME
Abstract
Provided is a washing machine operable to recover metal ions
supplied to water used for laundering. The washing machine (1)
comprises a metal ion water generation part (90) for applying the
metal ions to water and a metal ion recovery unit (200) disposed so
as to contact the water with the metal ions applied by the metal
ion water generation part (90), for recovering the metal ions in
the water. In a method for recovering the metal ions in the washing
machine (1), the metal ion recovery unit (200) is disposed, in the
washing machine (1) operable to apply the metal ions to a fabric
structure, so as to contact the water used for laundering and
recovers the metal ions in the water.
Inventors: |
Ikemizu; Mugihei; (Osaka,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BIRCH STEWART KOLASCH & BIRCH
PO BOX 747
FALLS CHURCH
VA
22040-0747
US
|
Family ID: |
38981279 |
Appl. No.: |
12/305607 |
Filed: |
March 9, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
March 9, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2007/054641 |
371 Date: |
December 18, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
68/62 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 39/088 20130101;
D06F 35/003 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
68/62 |
International
Class: |
D06B 3/20 20060101
D06B003/20 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 26, 2006 |
JP |
2006 202928 |
Claims
1-9. (canceled)
10. A washing machine operable to apply metal ions to a fabric
structure, comprising: a metal ion recovery unit disposed so as to
contact water used for laundering, for recovering the metal ions in
the water; and a water discharging channel, wherein the metal ion
recovery unit is disposed in the water discharging channel, and
wherein the water discharging channel includes a first water
discharging channel having the metal ion recovery unit and a second
water discharging channel not having the metal ion recovery
unit.
11. The washing machine according to claim 10, wherein the metal
ion recovery unit has a flexible member connected upstream of a
water flow which contacts the metal ion recovery unit.
12. The washing machine according to claim 10, wherein the metal
ion recovery unit is detachable from the washing machine.
13. The washing machine according to claim 10, wherein the metal
ion recovery unit includes an adsorbent for selectively recovering
specific metal.
14. A washing machine operable to apply metal ions to a fabric
structure, comprising: a metal ion recovery unit disposed so as to
contact water used for laundering, for recovering the metal ions in
the water; a water discharging channel; and a discharging water
clogging detection part, wherein the metal ion recovery unit is
disposed in the water discharging channel.
15. The washing machine according to claim 14, wherein the metal
ion recovery unit has a flexible member connected upstream of a
water flow which contacts the metal ion recovery unit.
16. The washing machine according to claim 14, wherein the metal
ion recovery unit is detachable from the washing machine.
17. The washing machine according to claim 14, wherein the metal
ion recovery unit includes an adsorbent for selectively recovering
specific metal.
18. A washing machine operable to apply metal ions to a fabric
structure, comprising a metal ion recovery unit disposed so as to
contact water used for laundering, for recovering the metal ions in
the water, wherein the metal ion recovery unit includes an
adsorbent for adsorbing the metal ions in the water and a depressed
portion for containing the adsorbent, wherein the depressed portion
is formed on a inner circumferential wall of the metal ion recovery
unit and has an opening portion for allowing the water passing
through the metal ion recovery unit to flow into an inside of the
depressed portion, and wherein a filter is attached on the opening
portion of the depressed portion.
19. The washing machine according to claim 18, wherein the metal
ion recovery unit has a flexible member connected upstream of a
water flow which contacts the metal ion recovery unit.
20. The washing machine according to claim 18, wherein the metal
ion recovery unit is detachable from the washing machine.
21. The washing machine according to claim 18, wherein the metal
ion recovery unit includes an adsorbent for selectively recovering
specific metal.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates generally to washing machines
and in particular, to a washing machine which is operable to apply
metal ions to a fabric structure.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] When laundering is performed by using a washing machine, a
finishing agent is often added in water and particularly, rinsing
water. As a general finishing agent, a softening agent, a sizing
agent, or the like can be cited. In recent years, there is a
washing machine which can apply metal ions (for example, silver
ions) as a finishing agent, in addition to the above-mentioned
finishing agent, to a fabric structure as laundry in order to
impart antibacterial properties and antibromic properties to the
fabric structure.
[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No.
2004-24597 (Patent Document 1) discloses a washing machine which
can apply metal ions and a softening agent as finishing agents. In
addition, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No.
2004-33996 (Patent Document 2) discloses a washing machine which
can apply metal ions having a constant concentration to be stably
supplied to laundry under laundering.
[0004] In these washing machines, the metal ions are supplied to
the laundry by adding the metal ions in water used for the
laundering, for example, upon rinsing. When the laundry which is in
a state in which the metal ions have been permeated together with
water thereinside is dried and the water is vaporized, the metal
ions are deposited as metal compounds and metal inside the fabric
structure as the laundry thereby imparting the antibacterial
properties to the laundry. However, a part of the metal ions does
not adhere to the laundry and is discharged together with
discharging water.
[0005] As a method for recovering the metal ions, Japanese Patent
Application Laid-Open Publication No. 59-104490 (Patent Document 3)
discloses a method in which electrolytic treatment is conducted. In
addition, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No.
61-158796 (Patent Document 4) discloses a method in which the metal
ions are recovered by using biomass. Japanese Patent Application
Laid-Open Publication No. 6-145828 (Patent Document 5) discloses a
method in which the metal ions are precipitated as sulfides and
recovered. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No.
7-185568 (Patent Document 6) discloses a method using an adsorbent.
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 60-61039
(Patent Document 7) discloses a method using an ion exchange
resin.
[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open
Publication No. 2004-24597
[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open
Publication No. 2004-33996
[0008] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open
Publication No. 59-104490
[0009] Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open
Publication No. 61-158796
[0010] Patent Document 5: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open
Publication No. 6-145828
[0011] Patent Document 6: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open
Publication No. 7-185568
[0012] Patent Document 7: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open
Publication No. 60-61039
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0013] However, the conventional methods for recovering the metal
ions are industrially applicable. Discharging water drained from a
washing machine is mixed with other discharging water drained from
one household and with discharging water drained from other
households, and a concentration of the metal ions targeted for
recovery is reduced. Therefore, it is made difficult to recover or
recycle the metal ions in the discharging water Therefore, in order
to recover the metal ions contained in the discharging water
drained from a household appliance such as a washing machine, for
example, it is required to collect the discharging water, used for
laundering, drained from each household, thereby imposing
difficulties.
[0014] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide
a washing machine which is operable to recover the metal ions
supplied to the water used for laundering.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0015] A washing machine according to the present invention
comprises: a metal ion applying unit for applying metal ions to
water; and a metal ion recovery unit disposed so as to contact the
water with the metal ions applied by the metal ion applying unit,
for recovering the metal ions in the water.
[0016] By employing the above-described configuration, the metal
ions can be recovered before the metal ions are discharged from the
washing machine. The higher a concentration of the metal ions in
the water is, the more easily the metal ions can be recovered.
However, when the metal ions are once discharged from the washing
machine and mixed with other living discharging water, the
concentration of the metal ions in the water is reduced, thereby
making it difficult to recover the metal ions. In addition, in a
case where the metal ions are used only in a particular process or
a concentration of metal ions used in a particular process is
extremely higher than those of the metal ions used in other
processes, a concentration of the metal ions in the water is
reduced just by mixing the water with the other discharging water,
thereby making it difficult to recover the metal ions. For example,
in a case where the metal ion water is used only in a final rinsing
process in the washing machine, a concentration of the metal ions
is reduced when the discharging water used in the final rinsing
process is mixed with other discharging water in a washing process
or a rinsing process other than the final rinsing process.
[0017] A washing machine operable to apply metal ions to a fabric
structure according to the present invention comprises a metal ion
recovery unit disposed so as to contact water used for laundering,
for recovering the metal ions in the water.
[0018] The metal ion recovery unit is disposed so as to contact the
water used for laundering, whereby the metal ions which do not
adhere to the washing machine and is still contained in the
discharging water can be recovered before these metal ions are
discharged from the washing machine.
[0019] By employing the above-described configuration, the metal
ions supplied to the water used for laundering can be
recovered.
[0020] In the washing machine according to the present invention,
it is preferable that the metal ion recovery unit is detachable
from the washing machine.
[0021] In general, in a case where the washing machine is recovered
and materials thereof are recycled, since manufactures and types of
the washing machines are various, dismantling is difficult. Even if
the washing machine is dismantled into respective parts, it is
difficult to identify materials used for the parts and therefore,
it is difficult to dismantle the washing machine into the
respective parts and separate to classify the respective parts.
Consequently, an entire washing machine may be crushed and
separation and classification of metal, a resin, and the like may
be performed.
[0022] If the washing machine including the metal ion recovery unit
is crushed without removing the metal ion recovery unit therefrom,
broken pieces of the metal ion recovery unit are mixed with other
broken pieces and only metal scraps having a low concentration of
the recovered metal are obtained, thereby making it difficult to
recycle the metal in the metal ion recovery unit. In a case where
after dismantling a main body of the washing machine, the metal ion
recovery unit is collected, dismantling by handwork is required,
thereby requiring time and cost for processing.
[0023] By allowing the metal ion recovery unit to be detachable
without removing a housing or the like of the washing machine, the
metal ion recovery unit can be collected before crushing the main
body of the washing machine. The washing machine obtained after the
metal ion recovery unit has been collected can be processed in the
same process as a process in which a conventional washing machine
is processed. In addition, the metal recovered from the metal ion
recovery unit can be recycled. As described above, the metal ions
which have been conventionally discharged together with the
discharging water can be recovered and recycled.
[0024] As described above, when the main body of the washing
machine is recovered and the materials used for the main body of
the washing machine are recycled, the metal ion recovery unit can
be collected without hampering a recycling process and the
recovered metal can be reused.
[0025] In the washing machine according to the present invention,
it is preferable that the metal ion recovery unit includes an
adsorbent for selectively recovering specific metal.
[0026] The water used for the laundering, such as the tap water,
contains a lot of metal ions other than the metal ions added as the
finishing agent. In general, the metal ions, added for the purpose
of exhibiting antibacterial action or the like, whose concentration
is approximately 50 .mu.g/L through 10 mg/L are contained in the
washing water. It is often the case that general tap water contains
sodium ions, calcium ions, potassium ions, and magnesium ions, each
of which has a concentration of several tens mg/L or more. The
adsorbent which adsorbs such metal ions contained in the tap water
does not sufficiently adsorb the metal ions, which have been added
as the finishing agent and should be recovered, and come to be
saturated. Consequently, a lifetime of the adsorbent is shortened,
or it is required to provided a large amount of the adsorbent in
the metal ion recovery unit. Therefore, by using the adsorbent
which can selectively adsorb the metal ions added as the finishing
agent, an effect of the metal ion recovery unit can long last.
[0027] In the washing machine according to the present invention,
it is preferable that the specific metal includes at least one of
silver ions and copper ions.
[0028] It is often the case that as a finishing agent for laundry,
the silver ions having antibacterial properties or the copper ions
having antifungal properties are added. Therefore, by using the
adsorbent which selectively adsorbs these ions, the metal ions
added upon laundering can be efficiently recovered.
[0029] In the washing machine according to the present invention,
it is preferable that a water discharging channel is included and
the metal ion recovery unit is disposed in the water discharging
channel.
[0030] A housing of the washing machine is formed by using a
material having a strength so as to meet a requirement of
withstanding a shock caused by a vibration and an imbalance which
occur upon dewatering performed during the laundering and so as to
prevent a user's hand from entering an inside thereof. And the
housing thereof is fixed with screws and nails. Therefore, the
housing cannot be easily removed from the main body of the washing
machine. On the other hand, the water discharging channel is not
particularly required to withstand the vibration or the like and
just passes the water therethrough. Therefore, the water
discharging channel can be installed in an easily attachable and
detachable state and formed by using a flexible resin. By providing
the metal ion recovery unit in this position, when the main body of
the washing machine is recycled, the metal ion recovery unit can be
easily removed.
[0031] As described above, when the washing machine is recovered
and recycled, the metal ion recovery unit can be collected without
dismantling the main body of the washing machine.
[0032] In the washing machine according to the present invention,
it is preferable that the water discharging channel includes a
first water discharging channel having the metal ion recovery unit
and a second water discharging channel not having the metal ion
recovery unit.
[0033] By employing the above-described configuration, the
discharging water to which the metal ions as the finishing agent
have been added can pass through the first water discharging
channel having the metal ion recovery unit and the discharging
water to which the metal ions as the finishing agent have not been
added can pass through the second water discharging channel not
having the metal ion recovery unit. By not passing the water used
in the washing process and the like, which contains a lot of the
yarn waste or the like and no metal ions, through the metal ion
recovery unit, the clogging of the first water discharging channel,
which is caused by the yarn waste or the like, can be prevented and
a capability of adsorbing the metal ions can be maintained. In
addition, in a case where the adsorbent used in the metal ion
recovery unit is made of the resin, when a surface activating agent
used for washing the laundry is adsorbed onto the surface of the
resin, the capability of the adsorbent is reduced However, by
properly using both of the first water discharging channel and the
second water discharging channel, a reduction in the adsorbing
capability of the adsorbent, which is caused by the adsorption of
the surface activating agent, can be prevented.
[0034] It is preferable that the washing machine according to the
present invention further comprises a discharging water clogging
detection part
[0035] When discharging water clogging is detected in one water
discharging channel, by using another water discharging channel,
the water can be discharged. In such a manner, even when the
discharging water clogging occurs, the laundering can be
completed.
[0036] In a method for recovering metal ions in a washing machine,
according to the present invention, it is preferable that in the
washing machine operable to apply the metal ions to a fabric
structure, a metal ion recovery unit is disposed so as to contact
the water used for laundering and the metal ions in water is
recovered.
[0037] By disposing the metal ion recovery unit so as to contact
the water used for laundering, the metal ions added in the water
used for laundering, which do not adhere to laundry and are still
contained in the discharging water can be recovered before
discharging the metal ions from a household.
[0038] As described above, the metal ions supplied to the water
used for laundering can be recovered.
EFFECT OF THE INVENTION
[0039] As described above, according to the present invention, a
washing machine operable to recover metal ions supplied to water
used for laundering can be provided.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0040] FIG. 1 shows a vertical sectional view illustrating a whole
configuration of a washing machine of one embodiment according to
the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 2 shows a schematic vertical sectional view
illustrating a feed water device which is viewed from a front
face.
[0042] FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross sectional view of a metal ion
generation part. FIG. 3(A) shows a schematic horizontal sectional
view. FIG. 3(B) shows a schematic vertical sectional view.
[0043] FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing all laundering processes
performed in the washing machine of the one embodiment according to
the present invention.
[0044] FIG. 5(A) is a diagram illustrating a metal ion recovery
unit attached in a water discharging hose. FIG. 5(B) shows one
example of an inside of the metal ion recovery unit. FIG. 5(C)
shows another example of the inside of the metal ion recovery
unit.
[0045] FIG. 6 shows schematic cross sectional views of a water
discharging channel in a washing machine of another embodiment
according to the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 7 shows a schematic cross sectional view of a water
discharging channel in which a filter is provided.
[0047] FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing a general water discharging
process in a conventional washing machine.
[0048] FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing a process of discharging
water containing metal ions in a washing machine of the another
embodiment according to the present invention.
[0049] FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a process of discharging
water containing no metal ions in the washing machine of the
another embodiment according to the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 11 shows a vertical sectional view illustrating a whole
configuration of a washing machine of further another embodiment
according to the present invention.
EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0051] 1: washing machine, 60: water discharging hose, 90; metal
ion water generation part, 200: metal ion recovery unit, 201:
adsorbent, 601: first water discharging hose, 602: second water
discharging hose
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention
will be described with reference to drawings.
First Embodiment
[0053] First, a configuration of a washing machine will be
described.
[0054] FIG. 1 shows a vertical sectional view illustrating a whole
configuration of the washing machine. The washing machine 1 is
fully automatic-type.
[0055] As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 includes a housing
10. The housing 10 is of a rectangular parallelepiped shape and is
made of metal or a synthetic resin, having openings on a top
surface and a bottom surface. On the opening on the top surface of
the housing 10, a top surface plate 11 made of a synthetic resin is
laid. This top surface plate 11 is fixed on the housing 10 with
screws.
[0056] In FIG. 1, provided that a left side is a front face of the
washing machine 1 and a right side is a back face of the washing
machine 1, a back panel 12 similarly made of the synthetic resin is
laid on an upper surface of the top surface plate 11 located on a
back surface side of the washing machine 1. This back panel 12 is
fixed on the housing 10 or the top surface plate 11 with screws. On
the opening on the bottom surface of the housing 10, a base 13 made
of the synthetic resin is laid. This base 13 is fixed on the
housing 10 with screws. Note that in FIG. 1, any of the
above-mentioned screws are not shown.
[0057] At four corners of the base 13, legs 14a and legs 14b for
supporting the housing 10 on a floor are provided. The legs 14a on
a front face side are screw legs whose heights are variable. By
turning these screw legs, leveling of the washing machine 1 is
conducted. The legs 14b on the back face side of the washing
machine 1 are fixed legs which are formed integrally with the base
13.
[0058] On the top surface plate 11, a laundry input opening 15 for
inputting laundry to the below-described washing tub 30 is
provided. A cover 16 is joined to the top surface plate 11 with a
hinge part 17, is vertically rotated, and covers the laundry input
opening 15 from above.
[0059] Inside the housing 10, a water tub 20 and the washing tub 30
which also serves as a dewatering bin are disposed. Each of the
water tub 20 and the washing tub 30 is of a cylindrical shaped-cup
shape whose upper surface is open. Each of axis lines thereof is in
a vertical direction. The water tub 20 and the washing tub 30 are
disposed in a concentric manner such that the water tub 20 is
located outside the washing tub 30 and the washing tub 30 is
located inside the water tub 20.
[0060] The water tub 20 is suspended by suspension members 21. The
suspension members 21 are provided at a total of four positions so
as to connect outer surface lower portions of the water tub 20 and
inner surface corner portions of the housing 10 and support the
water tub 20 such that the water tub 20 can horizontally swing.
[0061] On an edge of an upper opening of the washing tub 30, a
looped balancer 32 is attached. The balancer 32 has a function of
suppressing a vibration caused when the washing tub 30 is rotated
at a high speed in order to dewater the laundry. On an internal
bottom surface of the washing tub 30, a pulsator 33 for causing
washing water or rinsing water to flow therein is disposed. On a
bottom portion of the washing tub 30, which is covered by the
pulsator 33, a drain outlet 34 is formed.
[0062] On a bottom surface of the water tub 20, a driving unit 40
is attached. The driving unit 40 includes a motor 41, a clutch
mechanism 42, and a brake mechanism 43. From a central portion of
the driving unit 40, a dewatering axis 44 and a pulsator axis 45
protrude upward. The dewatering axis 44 and the pulsator axis 45
form a dual axial structure in which the dewatering axis 44 is
disposed outside and the pulsator axis 45 is disposed inside. The
dewatering axis 44 is inserted into the water tub 20 from a lower
side toward an upper side and connected to the washing tub 30 so as
to support the washing tub 30. The pulsator axis 45 penetrates
through the water tub 20 further into the washing tub 30 from a
lower side toward an upper side and is connected to the pulsator 33
so as to support the pulsator 33. Between the dewatering axis 44
and the water tub 20 and between the dewatering axis 44 and the
pulsator axis 45, sealing members for preventing water leakage are
respectively disposed.
[0063] In a space below the back panel 12, a feed water device 2 is
provided. The feed water device 2 is connected to a container-like
feed water inlet 53. The feed water inlet 53 is located so as to
overlook an inside of the washing tub 30. The feed water device 2
has a connecting pipe 51 which protrudes upward via a through-hole
18 provided on the back panel 12. The connecting pipe 51 is
connected to a feed water hose (not shown) for feeding clean water
such as tap water and connected via the hose to a tap water faucet.
The feed water device 2 has a structure shown in FIG. 2 in which
the water is fed via the feed water inlet 53 into the washing tub
30.
[0064] FIG. 2 shows a schematic vertical sectional view
illustrating the feed water device 2 which is viewed from a front
face.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 2, the feed water device 2 comprises: a
main feed water valve 50a; a sub-feed water valve 50b; the
connecting pipe 51; a main feed water pipe 52a as a first feed
water channel; a sub-feed water pipe 52b as a feed water channel;
and a metal ion water generation part 90 as a metal ion applying
unit which applies metal ions to the water flowing through the main
feed water pipe 52a.
[0066] A water outlet side of the connecting pipe 51 is connected
to the main feed water pipe 52a and the sub-feed water pipe 52b.
The main feed water pipe 52a and the sub-feed water pipe 52b are
disposed so as to be able to feed the water into the feed water
inlet 53. In the main feed water pipe 52a, the metal ion water
generation part 90 is provided.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 1, at a bottom portion of the water tub 20,
a water discharging hose 60 as a water discharging channel for
discharging the water in the water tub 20 and the washing tub 30
out of the housing 10. The water flows into the water discharging
hose 60 from a water discharge pipe 61. The water discharge pipe 61
is connected so as to be located in the vicinity to a periphery of
the bottom surface of the water tub 20.
[0068] For discharging the water, the water fed into the washing
tub 30 is drained through the drain outlet 34 below the washing tub
30 into a space between the washing tub 30 and the water tub 20,
passes through the water discharge pipe 61 and a water discharging
valve 62, flows into the water discharging hose 60, and is
discharged externally. In addition, the water in the washing tub 30
passes through the dewatering holes 31 of the washing tub 30, is
drained into the space between the washing tub 30 and the water tub
20, passes through the water discharge pipe 61 and the water
discharging valve 62, flows into the water discharging hose 60, and
is discharged externally.
[0069] In the water discharging hose 60, a metal ion recovery unit
200 is provided. The water discharged from the washing tub 30
passes through an inside of the metal ion recovery unit 200 when
circulating through the water discharging hose 60.
[0070] In the water discharge pipe 61, the water discharging valve
62 which is electromagnetically opened and closed is provided. At a
position upstream of the water discharging valve 62 in the water
discharge pipe 61, an air trap (not shown) is provided and from the
air trap, a pressure guiding tube 70 extends out. At an upper end
of the pressure guiding tube 70, a water level switch 71 as water
level detection means for the washing tub 30 or the water tub 20 is
connected.
[0071] On a front face side of the housing 10, a controller 80 is
disposed. The controller 80 is located below the top surface plate
11, receives a user's instruction via an operation/display section
81 provided on an upper surface of the top surface plate 11, and
issues an operation instruction to the driving unit 40, the feed
water device 2, and the like. In addition, the controller 80 issues
a display instruction to the operation/display section 81.
[0072] FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross sectional view of the metal
ion generation part. FIG. 3(A) shows a schematic horizontal
sectional view. FIG. 3(B) shows a schematic vertical sectional
view.
[0073] As shown in FIG. 3(A) and FIG. 3(B), the metal ion water
generation part 90 provided in the feed water device 2 shown in
FIG. 2 has a case 91 made of an insulating material such as a
synthetic resin. Inside the case 91, platy silver electrodes 92a
and 92b are disposed so as to have a distance of approximately 5 mm
therebetween and to be in parallel with each other. Each of the
silver electrodes has, for example, a size of approximately 20
mm.times.50 mm and a thickness of approximately 1 mm. On the silver
electrodes 92a and 92b, connecting terminals 93a and 93b are
integrally formed, respectively. The connecting terminals 93a and
93b are connected to the controller 80 through wiring (not shown).
In the case 91, a water inlet 94 from which the water flows in and
a water outlet 95 from which the water flows out are provided. The
water can flow into the case 91 from the water inlet 94 and can
flow out of the case 91 from the water outlet 95. In other words,
the water flows in parallel with a longitudinal direction of the
silver electrodes 92a and 92b.
[0074] In a state in which the water is flowing, with the silver
electrodes 92a and 92b immersed in the water, a voltage is applied
between the silver electrodes 92a and 92b by the controller 80. On
the silver electrode on an anode side, a reaction of
Ag.fwdarw.Ag.sup.++e.sup.-) occurs and silver ions (Ag.sup.+) are
eluted in the water. When the silver ions (Ag.sup.+) continues to
be eluted, the silver electrode on the anode side is depleted. The
silver ions eluted from the silver electrode 92a or the silver
electrode 92b exhibit excellent bactericidal and antifungal
effects. Accordingly, silver ion water which is metal ion water
acts as antibacterial water having antibacterial properties. Here,
not only sterilization and disinfection of germs and fungi but also
inactivation of viruses are referred to as antibacterial or
bactericidal action. In Silver Ion Water written by Kulskii, L. A
and published by Shin Nihon Casting and Forging Association
(Publishing Company) in 1993, it is described that the viruses are
inactivated by the silver ions.
[0075] On the other hand, on the silver electrode on a cathode
side, a reaction of H.sup.++e.sup.-.fwdarw.1/2H.sub.2 occurs,
hydrogen is generated, and calcium or the like contained in the
water is deposited on a surface of the silver electrode as scales
of a calcium compound such as calcium carbonate. In addition,
chloride and sulfide of silver which is metal of a constituent of
the electrode are generated on the surface thereof. Accordingly,
when the electrode is used over a long period of time, the scales
of calcium carbonate, chloride, sulfide, and the like are deposited
in a thickly-accumulated manner on the surface of the electrode,
thereby hampering the elution of the silver ions which are the
metal ions. This causes an amount of eluted silver ions to be
unstable and depletion of the electrodes to be uneven. Therefore,
the controller 80 periodically (for example, per 20 seconds)
performs a reversal of polarity of the voltage applied between the
silver electrodes 92a and 92b in the metal ion water generation
part 90, thereby preventing the adhesion of the scales to the
silver electrodes 92a and 92b and the depletion of only either one
of the silver electrodes.
[0076] The metal of the electrodes may be other kinds of metal than
the silver and it is only required for the metal of the electrodes
to allow the elution of metal ions having the antibacterial
properties. Specifically, the metal of the electrodes can be
selected from among copper, an alloy of silver and copper, zinc,
etc. The silver ions eluted from the silver electrodes, copper ions
eluted from copper electrodes, and zinc ions eluted from zinc
electrodes exhibit excellent bactericidal and antifungal effects.
From the alloy of silver and copper, the silver ions and the copper
ions can be concurrently eluted. In addition, the anode may be an
electrode which elutes the metal ions and the cathode may be an
electrode which elutes no metal ions. In a case where a
configuration of the electrodes includes two or more electrodes,
all of the electrodes may be made of a same kind of metal, or
either one of the electrodes may be a metal electrode and the other
electrode may be a nonmetal electrode (for example, a carbon
electrode, a conductive plastic electrode, etc.) or a plated
electrode. Further, the other electrode may be a metal electrode
(for example, a titanium electrode, an electrode of platinum or
gold, either of which is noble metal, etc.) which is hardly
ionized. Or a configuration including a plurality of metal
electrodes (for example, a configuration including a silver
electrode, a copper electrode, etc.) made of different materials
may be employed.
[0077] When the silver ions are eluted, constant current control
which allows a current value to be constant is performed. In the
constant current control, a constant current value is maintained,
regardless of a change in a resistance value between the
electrodes. However, for example, generation of air bubbles on the
surfaces of the electrodes and a change in a distance between the
electrodes, which is caused by vibration of the electrodes, cause
the resistance value between the electrodes to invariably change.
Therefore, it is difficult to maintain the current value to be
completely constant and a slight current change occurs. In
addition, due to a markedly high resistance value or the like, a
constant current cannot be applied by a voltage in a range
permissible in a circuit, whereby a reduction in a current may
occur. Herein, the control performed such that even when the
above-described situations occur, the voltage is changed so as to
correspond to the change in the resistance value between the
electrodes by increasing the voltage roughly in accordance with an
increase in the resistance value and decreasing the voltage roughly
in accordance with a decrease in the resistance value, thereby
stabilizing the current value between the electrodes, is deemed as
the constant current control.
[0078] A silver ion concentration of the silver ion water can be
controlled by adjusting quantities of electricity and water which
flow between the electrodes. For example, in order to obtain the
silver ion water of 90 ppb, it is only required to adjust the water
quantity to be 20 L/min and the current to be 29 mA in the metal
ion water generation part 90. In order to obtain the silver ion
water of 600 ppb, it is only required to adjust the water quantity
to be 3 L/min and the current to be 29 mA. An amount of eluted
silver ions is roughly proportional to an electricity quantity
(C)=a constant current value (A).times.time (sec), except for a low
current region. In addition, when the water quantity is constant,
the electricity quantity and a silver concentration of the
obtainable silver ion water correlate to each other. Therefore, by
adjusting the current value, the water quantity, and an
energization time, the silver ion water having a desired
concentration can be obtained.
[0079] As described above, by applying a predetermined current to
the water, whose flow quantity is constant, between the silver
electrodes 92a and 92b, the desired silver ion concentration can be
obtained. In addition, since a structure of the feed water valve
allows the flow quantity to be nearly fixed, the silver ion water
having a roughly constant concentration can be generated by
applying a constant current. It is preferable that in order to be
able to obtain the silver ion water having various concentrations,
combinations of the current value and the time are previously
obtained by conducting an experiment.
[0080] The silver ions, copper ions, and zinc ions has no
irritating properties against a human body and toxicity thereof is
low. Furthermore, the metal ions and a compound thereof are hardly
volatilized, unlike hypochlorous acid or the like which is
volatilized in a prompted manner by raising a temperature or
performing ventilation and thereby, loses antibacterial and
antifungal effects and generates an unpleasant odor. However, the
metal ions and the compound thereof can maintain the effects for a
long period of time without losing the antibacterial and antifungal
effects and without generating the unpleasant odor.
[0081] In addition, in the metal ion water generation part 90, it
can be selected whether or not the elution of the silver ions which
are the metal ions is performed, through applying the voltage or
not applying the voltage. Also the amount of the eluted silver ions
can be controlled by controlling the current and the voltage
application time as described above.
[0082] As the metal ion water generation part 90, instead of the
above-described metal ion water generation part in which the
electrolysis is performed, a metal ion-containing substance which
has a constitution allowing the metal ions to be
controlled-released or be dissolved when the substance is immersed
in washing water may be used. As a specific example of the metal
ion-containing substance, zeolite, silica gel glass, calcium
phosphate, zirconium phosphate, silicate, titanium oxide, whisker,
ceramics, etc. which carry the metal ions, or a resin, fiber, etc.
which contains the above-mentioned substances.
[0083] Here, a general fluid used in the washing machine, such as
water used for cleaning and rinsing and cooling water for
dehumidifying, is referred to as the washing water.
[0084] The metal ions which have been added to the washing water by
employing the above-described methods exhibit bacteria elimination
action during the laundering in accordance with operations of the
washing machine 1 or exhibit antibacterial action, for example,
through adhesion of the metal ions to laundry or an inside of the
washing machine 1. However, some of the metal ions do not adhere to
anywhere, passes through the water discharge pipe 61 and the water
discharging valve 62, and flows in the water discharging hose 60.
The metal ions having flowed in the water discharging hose 60 flow
in the metal ion recovery unit 200 and are removed. Thereafter, the
discharging water is drained to a sewerage outlet.
[0085] Next, with reference to FIG. 4, basic operations of the
washing machine 1 will be described.
[0086] FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing all laundering processes
performed in the washing machine 1.
[0087] As shown in FIG. 4, at step S001, a process of washing the
laundry is conducted. Upon feeding the water, the main feed water
valve 50a is opened and the water is fed via the main feed water
pipe 52a and the feed water inlet 53 into the washing tub 30. At
this time, a detergent is also supplied to the washing tub. Note
that at this time point, the water discharging valve 62 is closed.
When the water level switch 71 detects a set water level, the feed
water valve 50a is closed. The pulsator 33 is rotated in a normal
and reverse manner and causes the laundry to be soaked in the
water. In accordance with user's setting, the motor 41 causes the
pulsator 33 to rotate in a predetermined pattern, thereby
generating in the washing tub 30 a main water stream for
laundering. Laundering of the laundry is performed by this main
water stream. The dewatering axis 44 is braked by a braking device
43, and even when the laundry and the washing water move, the
washing tub 30 does not rotate. After a period of the main water
stream has passed, the pulsator 33 rotates in the normal and
reverse manner in small motions, thereby disentangling the laundry
and distributing the laundry in a well-balanced manner in the
washing tub 30. This is performed in preparation for dewatering
rotation of the washing tub 30.
[0088] Next, at step S002, a water discharging process is
conducted. First, the water discharging valve 62 is opened, thereby
discharging the washing water in the washing tub 30. The water
discharging valve 62 is left open during the water discharging
process and a dewatering process.
[0089] At step S003, an intermediate dewatering process is
conducted. After a dewatering operation at a comparatively low
speed has performed, a dewatering operation at a high speed is
performed. The energization of the motor 41 is shut off and a
stopping process such as braking is conducted. When a large part of
the washing water has been removed from the washing tub 30 and the
laundry, the clutch mechanism 42 and the brake mechanism 43 are
switched. As switching timing of the clutch mechanism 42 and the
brake mechanism 43, the switching may be performed before the start
of discharging the water or at the same time when the water is
discharged Next, the motor 41 causes the dewatering axis 44 to
rotate, whereby the washing tub 30 performs a dewatering operation.
At this time, the pulsator 33 rotates together with the washing tub
30. When the washing tub 30 rotates, the laundry is pressed against
an inner circumferential wall of the washing tub 30 by a
centrifugal force. The washing water soaked in the laundry is
collected on an inner surface of the circumferential wall of the
washing tub 30. At this time, the washing water on which the
centrifugal force is exerted is released from the dewatering holes
31 of the washing tub 30. The washing water released from the
dewatering holes 31 is pelted on an inner surface of the water tub
20, travels down on the inner surface of the water tub 20, and
drops down on a bottom portion of the water tub 20. The washing
water having dropped on the bottom portion of the water tub 20
passes through the water discharge pipe 61 and then, through the
water discharging hose 60, and is drained out of the housing
10.
[0090] At step S004, a first rinsing process is conducted. When the
metal ions are supplied to the laundry, the main feed water valve
50a is opened, the elution of the silver ions through the
electrolysis by using metal ion water generation part 90 is
implemented, water containing the metal ions is fed via the main
feed water pipe 52a and the feed water inlet 53 into the washing
tub 30. When the metal ions are not supplied to the laundry, the
electrolysis by using the metal ion water generation part 90 is not
implemented.
[0091] In addition, irrespective of whether or not the metal ions
are supplied, the sub-feed water valve 50b is opened, concurrent
water feeding via the sub-feed water pipe 52b and the feed water
inlet 53 is implemented. When a finishing agent such as a softening
agent is used, the finishing agent is supplied.
[0092] After the water has been fed up to a set water level, in
accordance with user's setting, the motor 41 causes the pulsator 33
to rotate in the predetermined pattern and generates in the washing
tub 30 a main water stream for rinsing. This main water stream
agitates the laundry, thereby rinsing the laundry. The dewatering
axis 44 is braked by the brake mechanism 43, and even when the
rinsing water and the laundry move, the washing tub 30 does not
rotate. After a period of agitating has passed, the pulsator 33
performs small motions and disentangles the laundry. This causes
the laundry to be distributed in the washing tub 30 in a
well-balanced manner in preparation for a dewatering process. In
the above description, "stored-water rinsing", which is rinsing
with water stored in the washing tub 30, is performed. However,
"pouring-water rinsing", which is rising with fresh water
constantly being fed, or "shower rinsing", which is rinsing with
water showered on the laundry via the feed water inlet 53 while the
washing tub 30 is being rotated at a low speed, may be
performed.
[0093] At step S005, as similarly to at step S002, the water
discharging process is conducted.
[0094] At step S006, as similarly to at step S003, the intermediate
dewatering process is conducted.
[0095] At step S007, a final rinsing process is conducted, as
similarly to at step S004.
[0096] At step S008, a dewatering process is conducted. First, the
water discharging valve 62 is opened, thereby discharging the
washing water in the washing tub 30. The water discharging valve 62
is left open during the dewatering process. Next, after a
dewatering operation at a comparatively low speed has performed, a
dewatering operation at a high speed is performed. The energization
of the motor 41 is shut off and a stopping process such as braking
is conducted. When a large part of the washing water has been
removed from the washing tub 30 and the laundry, the clutch
mechanism 42 and the brake mechanism 43 are switched. As switching
timing of the clutch mechanism 42 and the brake mechanism 43, the
switching may be performed before the start of discharging the
water or at the same time when the water is discharged. Next, the
motor 41 causes the dewatering axis 44 to rotate, whereby the
washing tub 30 performs a dewatering operation. At this time, the
pulsator 33 rotates together with the washing tub 30 When the
washing tub 30 rotates, the laundry is pressed against an inner
circumferential wall of the washing tub 30 by a centrifugal force.
The washing water soaked in the laundry is collected on an inner
surface of the circumferential wall of the washing tub 30. At this
time, the washing water on which the centrifugal force is exerted
is released from the dewatering holes 31 of the washing tub 30. The
washing water released from the dewatering holes 31 is pelted on an
inner surface of the water tub 20, travels down on the inner
surface of the water tub 20, and drops down on a bottom portion of
the water tub 20. The washing water having dropped on the bottom
portion of the water tub 20 passes through the water discharge pipe
61 and then, through the water discharging hose 60, and is drained
out of the housing 10.
[0097] In the above-described laundering process, the water
discharging valve 62 is open during the water discharging process
and the dewatering process, and the water in the washing tub 30
passes through the water discharge pipe 61 and the water
discharging valve 62 and flows into the water discharging hose 60.
In the water discharging hose 60, the metal ion recovery unit 200
is disposed outside the housing 10 of the washing machine 1.
[0098] In a case where the washing machine includes the metal ion
recovery unit and the recovered metal ions are of valuable metal
such as the silver and the copper as described above, when a user
disposes of the washing machine, a manufacturer, a disposal
contractor, or the like can recover the valuable metal by
recovering the washing machine and can sell or recycle the valuable
metal. Consequently recovering the washing machine brings about a
cost advantage, recovering and recycling the washing machine is
facilitated, and illegal disposal can be suppressed.
[0099] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the metal ion recovery unit
attached in the water discharging hose. FIG. 5(A) shows a state in
which the metal ion recovery unit is attached in the water
discharging hose, FIG. 5(B) and FIG. 5(C) each show an inside of
the metal ion recovery unit.
[0100] As shown in FIG. 5(A), the metal ion recovery unit 200 is
disposed midway of the water discharging hose 60. A portion
connecting the water discharging hose 60 and the metal ion recovery
unit 200 is insertion-type and is attachable and detachable.
[0101] In a case where the metal ion recovery unit 200 is installed
inside the washing machine, when the metal ion recovery unit 200 is
recovered, it is required to dismantle a main body of the washing
machine 1 such as the housing 10 to take out the metal ion recovery
unit 200 or it is required to crush the washing machine 1 still
including the metal ion recovery unit 200.
[0102] In a case where the washing machine main body is dismantled
to take out the metal ion recovery unit 200, since it is required
to pick out a specific washing machine (the washing machine
including the metal ion recovery unit) and for example, to
dismantle and crush the washing machine main body by handwork in a
process of recycling the washing machine, it is not practical. In
particular, because the housing portion of the washing machine is
made so as to be robust since the housing portion is required to
withstand a vibration caused by the operation of laundering and to
support a weight of the water tub 20 and the motor 41 suspended by
the suspension members 21, it is difficult to dismantle the housing
portion.
[0103] In a case where the washing machine still including the
metal ion recovery unit 200 is crushed, substances other than the
metal ion recovery unit 200 are contained in the obtained shredder
residue, thereby reducing a content percentage of the metal and
reducing a recycling efficiency.
[0104] Therefore, as described above, the metal ion recovery unit
200 is installed in the water discharging hose 60 which is located
outside the housing 10 of the washing machine, whereby when the
washing machine 1 is recovered and recycled, the metal ion recovery
unit 200 can be collected without dismantling the main body of the
washing machine 1 such as the housing 10, and recovering the metal
is facilitated.
[0105] As described above, when the washing machine 1 is recovered
and materials used therein are recycled, the metal ion recovery
unit 200 can be collected without hampering the recycling process,
and the recovered metal can be reused.
[0106] The method of installing the metal ion recovery unit 200 in
the water discharging hose 60 is not limited to the insertion-type
method as shown in FIG. 5. Since it is only required to allow the
metal ion recovery unit 200 to be easily detached from the main
body of the washing machine 1, the method may be, for example, a
screwing-type method. In addition, at least one part of the water
discharging hose may be made of a flexible material so as to be cut
with a cutter or the like.
[0107] Only an upstream portion of the water discharging hose 60
may be attachable to and detachable from the metal ion recovery
unit 200. In this case, a downstream portion of the water
discharging hose 60 is to be collected together with the metal ion
recovery unit 200. When the downstream side of the water
discharging hose 60, which is located downstream of the metal ion
recovery unit 200, is formed by using an organic material such as a
resin, the metal can be isolated by burning the water discharging
hose 60 together with the metal ion recovery unit 200. In a case
where a metal refining process is arranged so as to include a
process of isolating the metal from the metal ion recovery unit
200, the organic material can be easily removed. Therefore, through
forming the metal ion recovery unit 200 by using the organic
material, the metal can be effectively recovered.
[0108] In a case where the metal ion recovery unit 200 is installed
inside the washing machine 1, the portion connecting the metal ion
recovery unit 200 and the washing machine 1 is required to
withstand a vibration of the washing machine 1. Therefore, it is
difficult to adopt a structure, such as an insertion-type
structure, which allows easy attachment and detachment. However,
when the metal ion recovery unit 200 is installed midway of the
water discharging hose 60 and the upstream side of the water
discharging hose 60 is formed by using the flexible material, the
vibration of the washing machine is not transmitted to the metal
ion recovery unit 200 and the structure which allows the easy
attachment and detachment can be adopted.
[0109] As described above, when the washing machine is recovered
and recycled, the metal ion recovery unit can be collected without
dismantling the main body of the washing machine.
[0110] The metal ion recovery unit 200 holds an adsorbent 201
thereinside. By using the adsorbent 201, the metal can be
recovered.
[0111] As examples, as shown in FIGS. 5(B) and 5(C), depressed
portions 202 are or a depressed portion 202 is formed in an inner
circumferential wall of the metal ion recovery unit 200 and
particles of the adsorbent 201 are contained in the depressed
portions 202 or the depressed portion 202. At opening portions or
an opening portion of the depressed portions 202 or the depressed
portion 202, filters 203 are or a filter 203 is attached, and a
structure which allows the silver ions to pass therethrough but
prevents yarn waste or the like from entering is formed. As shown
in FIG. 5(B), a plurality of the depressed portions 202 may be
provided As shown in FIG. 5(C), a single depressed portion 202 may
be provided.
[0112] By causing the water, which has passed through the filter
203, to contact the adsorbent 201 as described above, adhesion of
the yarn waste or the like to the adsorbent 201 or clogging with
the yarn waste or the like in the metal ion recovery unit 200 can
be prevented. Since the metal ions to be adsorbed have been
dissolved in the water, the metal ions can contact the adsorbent
201 and can be adsorbed by the adsorbent 201 without causing any
problem even when the filter 203 is present.
[0113] The adsorbent 201 may be kneaded in a resin or the like. In
this case, since only a part of the adsorbent, which is present on
a surface of an inner wall of the metal ion recovery unit 200, can
act, it is preferable that the surface of the inner wall of the
metal ion recovery unit 200 is made rough through using plasma or
is made porous through foaming. In addition, the adsorbent 201 may
be mixed in a paint or the like. The paint or the like may be
adhered to the surface of the inner wall of the metal ion recovery
unit 200.
[0114] As described above, the metal ions supplied in the water
used for laundering can be recovered.
[0115] As the adsorbent 201, for example, a synthetic adsorbent
such as a thiol-function polysiloxane compound can be used. When an
adsorbent having a surface on which a thiol group is formed is
used, since the silver ions are very easily bonded to sulfur, the
silver ions and the sulfur in the thiol group react to each other
as shown in the below formula and the silver ions are adsorbed to
the adsorbent 201.
(SiO.sub.3).sub.n(CH.sub.2).sub.3SH+Ag.sup.+.fwdarw.(SiO.sub.3).sub.n(CH-
.sub.2).sub.3SAg+H.sup.+
[0116] The other metal ions contained in the tap water are hardly
bonded to the sulfur. Accordingly, this adsorbent can selectively
adsorb the silver ions.
[0117] The water used for laundering, such as the tap water,
contains a lot of metal ions other than the metal ions added as the
finishing agent. In general, the metal ions, added for the purpose
of exhibiting antibacterial action or the like, whose concentration
is approximately 50 .mu.g/L through 10 mg/L are contained in the
washing water. It is often the case that general tap water contains
sodium ions, calcium ions, potassium ions, and magnesium ions, each
of which has a concentration of several tens mg/L or more. The
adsorbent which adsorbs such metal ions contained in the tap water
does not sufficiently adsorb the metal ions, which have been added
as the finishing agent and should be recovered, and come to be
saturated. Consequently, a lifetime of the adsorbent is shortened,
or it is required to provided a large amount of the adsorbent in
the metal ion recovery unit. Therefore, by using the adsorbent
which can selectively adsorb the metal ions added as the finishing
agent, an effect of the metal ion recovery unit can long last.
[0118] A synthetic adsorbent to which a functional group,
containing the sulfur, such as the thiol and polyurea, is adhered
is excellent in adsorptivity and selectivity of the ions,
particularly, of the noble metal such as the silver and the copper,
and is particularly effective when the metal ions added in the
washing water used in the washing machine are the above-mentioned
metal ions.
[0119] It is often the case that as the finishing agent for the
laundry, the silver ions having the antibacterial properties and/or
the copper ions having the antifungal properties are added.
Therefore, by using the adsorbent which selectively adsorbs these
ions, the metal ions added upon laundering can be efficiently
recovered.
[0120] As the adsorbent, others may be used. Instead of the
synthetic adsorbent, for example, zeolite, a cation exchange resin,
or the like can be used.
[0121] In addition, microorganisms such as metal ion reduction
germs and a metal ion reduction enzyme may be caused to perform
reduction, precipitation, adsorption, or the like. As the metal ion
reduction germs, germs which selectively reduce the silver ions and
precipitate the silver is described in, for example, PNAS96 (24):
13611-13614 "Silver-based crystalline nanoparticles, microbially
fabricated".
[0122] Furthermore, by using metal which is less noble than the
targeted metal, the reduction and the precipitation may be
performed. For example, since the silver is nobler than iron, when
a liquid containing the silver ions is caused to contact the iron
having a large surface area, such as steel wool, a reaction
expressed by the below formula occurs, thereby allowing the
recovery of the silver on the surface of the steel wool. This
method is a method for selectively recovering the metal ions, such
as the silver ions and the copper ions, which are nobler than the
iron ions.
2Ag.sup.++Fe.fwdarw.2Ag+Fe.sup.2+
[0123] As in the above-described methods, by employing the method
of recovery, which allows the added metal ions to be selectively
recovered as compared with the metal ions contained in the general
tap water, the metal ions added upon laundering can be efficiently
recovered.
[0124] In addition, an electrical method, for example, in which
metal is deposited on a cathode through electrolysis, may be
employed. Specifically, this is the method in which a voltage is
applied between electrodes and the metal is precipitated through a
cathode reaction expressed by the below formula.
Ag.sup.++e.sup.-.fwdarw.Ag
[0125] As described above, the metal ion recovery unit 200 which
has adsorbed the silver is detached when the washing machine 1 is
collected and the metal in the metal ion recovery unit 200 is
recycled. As a method for recycling, for example, the organic
substance collected together with the metal ion recovery unit 200
is burnt to be removed, and the residue is dissolved at a high
temperature and undergoes electrolysis refining. In addition, a
refining process for the recovery may be arranged so as to be
included in a usual process of refining a copper ore, a silver ore,
or the like.
[0126] An organic substance such as an ion exchange resin and a
reducing enzyme is used as the adsorbent and a housing of the metal
ion recovery unit 200 is also formed by using a resin, whereby by
burning the metal ion recovery unit 200, only the metal targeted
for the recovery can be obtained. In a case where the metal is
isolated from the metal ion recovery unit 200 by including the
refining process for the recovery in the usual metal refining
process, since the metal can be easily isolated by burning the
organic substance, it is effective to form the metal ion recovery
unit 200 by using the organic substance.
Second Embodiment
[0127] FIG. 6 shows schematic cross sectional views of a water
discharging channel in a washing machine of another embodiment
according to the present invention. Except for the water
discharging channel, a configuration of the washing machine of the
second embodiment is the same as the configuration of the washing
machine of the first embodiment, shown in FIG. 1. In addition, in
the washing machine 1, the controller 80 includes a timer as a
discharging water clogging detection part, which measures a time
period from the start of discharging water. Completion of
discharging the water is detected by a water level switch.
[0128] As shown in FIG. 6, in the water discharging channel of this
washing machine, a three-way valve 63 is provided. The water
discharging channel is branched via the three-way valve 63 so as to
include a first water discharging hose 601 as a first water
discharging channel which includes the metal ion recovery unit 200
midway thereof and a second water discharging hose 602 as a second
water discharging channel through which the water discharged from
the washing machine directly flows into sewers. The three-way valve
63 is controlled by the controller 80, whereby the discharging
water can flow into either one or both of the first water
discharging hose 601 and the second water discharging hose 602.
Arrows shown in FIG. 6 indicate a flow of the water.
[0129] FIG. 6(A) shows a state in which the three-way valve 63 is
closed. FIG. 6(B) shows a state in which the three-way valve 63 is
switched so as to flow the discharging water into only the first
water discharging hose 601 having the metal ion recovery unit 200.
FIG. 6(C) shows a state in which the three-way valve 63 is switched
so as to flow the discharging water into only the second water
discharging hose 602 not having the metal ion recovery unit 200.
FIG. 6(D) shows a state in which the three-way valve 63 is switched
so as to flow the discharging water into both of the first water
discharging hose 601 and the second water discharging hose 602.
[0130] As shown in FIG. 4, a general sequence of laundering mainly
comprises three processes of "washing", "rinsing", and
"dewatering". It is often the case that the rinsing process is
conducted a plurality of times, or between the washing process and
the rinsing process, a water discharging process and the dewatering
process are conducted or a special process is conducted. Supplying
metal ions to washing water is conducted in a process at a later
stage of the laundering, such as a final rinsing process, thereby
allowing enhancement of an efficiency of utilizing the metal
ions.
[0131] In the second embodiment, for example, the metal ions are
supplied to laundry together with water only when the water is fed
in the final rinsing process (at step S007) shown in FIG. 4, and
water containing no metal ions is fed in the washing process (at
step S001) and first rinsing process (at step S004). At this time,
in the other processes (at step S002, step S003, step S005, and
step S006) shown in FIG. 4, the water is discharged via the second
water discharging hose 602 not having the metal ion recovery unit
200, and only in the dewatering process after the final rinsing
process, the water is discharged via the first water discharging
hose 601. This allows the metal ions to be recovered into the metal
ion recovery unit 200.
[0132] In the washing process conducted in the washing machine, a
mechanical force is applied to the laundry by deforming the laundry
and causing pieces of the laundry to contact one another, thereby
enhancing a cleaning effect. Therefore, in the washing process at
step S001, yarn waste may be generated from the laundry. On the
other hand, in order to enhance a speed of adsorbing the metal ions
from the discharging water in the metal ion recovery unit 200, it
is effective to increase an efficiency of contacting of the
discharging water and the adsorbent or the like. In order to
implement this, it is required to form the metal ion recovery unit
200 so as to be filter-like or to provide protrusions inside the
metal ion recovery unit 200. However, in such a configuration, if
the yarn waste is contained in the water discharged from the
washing machine, clogging is likely to be caused.
[0133] Therefore, the water discharging hose is branched so as to
include the first water discharging hose 601 having the metal ion
recovery unit 200 and the second water discharging hose 602 not
having the metal ion recovery unit 200. By providing a plurality of
the water discharging channels as described above, it is made
possible for the water used in the washing process and the like,
which contains a lot of the yarn waste and no metal ions, not to
pass through the metal ion recovery unit 200, thereby preventing
the clogging caused by the yarn waste and allowing the enhancement
of the speed of adsorbing the metal ions.
[0134] In particular, when the adsorbent is made of the resin such
as the ion exchange resin, a surface activating agent contained in
the water discharged after the washing process is adsorbed onto a
surface of the resin, and thereby, a capability of the adsorbent
may be reduced. This also can be prevented by branching the water
discharging hose.
[0135] By employing the above-described configuration, the
discharging water to which the metal ions as the finishing agent
have been added can pass through the first water discharging hose
601 having the metal ion recovery unit 200 and the discharging
water to which the metal ions as the finishing agent have not been
added can pass through the second water discharging hose 602 not
having the metal ion recovery unit 200. By not passing the water
used in the washing process and the like, which contains a lot of
the yarn waste or the like and no metal ions, through the metal ion
recovery unit 200, the clogging of the first water discharging hose
601, which is caused by the yarn waste or the like, can be
prevented and a capability of adsorbing the metal ions can be
maintained. In addition, in a case where the adsorbent 201 is made
of the resin, when the surface activating agent used for washing
the laundry is adsorbed onto the surface of the resin, the
capability of the adsorbent is reduced. However, by properly using
both of the first water discharging hose 601 and the second water
discharging hose 602, a reduction in the adsorbing capability of
the adsorbent 201, which is caused by the adsorption of the surface
activating agent, can be prevented.
[0136] FIG. 7 shows a schematic cross sectional view of a water
discharging hose in which a filter is provided.
[0137] As shown in FIG. 7, the filter 204 may be provided upstream
of the metal ion recovery unit 200. The water discharging hose
through which the discharging water flows has a configuration in
which by switching opening and closing of a first valve 64a and a
second valve 64b, the discharging water can flow either one or both
of the first water discharging hose 601 and the second water
discharging hose 602.
[0138] By employing the above-described configuration, the filter
204 can prevent the yarn waste or the like from entering the metal
ion recovery unit 200. In addition, the filter 204 contacts also
the water discharged via the second water discharging hose 602,
thereby allowing the yarn waste adhering to the filter 204 to be
washed off by using the water discharged via the second water
discharging hose 602 and enabling prevention of clogging of the
filter 204.
[0139] Next, with reference to FIG. 8, a water discharging process
in a conventional washing machine will be described.
[0140] FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the general water discharging
process in the conventional washing machine. Predetermined
determinations are made by the controller 80.
[0141] As shown in FIG. 8, in a water discharging process, first at
step S009, a water discharging valve 62 is opened. Water in a
washing tub 30 passes via a water discharge pipe 61 and a water
discharging valve 62 and is discharged into a water discharging
hose 60. At step S010, it is confirmed whether discharging the
water has been completed. When the completion of discharging the
water is not detected, discharging the water is continued. When the
completion of discharging the water is detected, the water
discharging valve 62 is closed and the water discharging process is
finished.
[0142] Next, with reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the water
discharging process in the second embodiment according to the
present invention will be described.
[0143] FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing a process of discharging the
water containing the metal ions in the washing machine of the
another embodiment according to the present invention.
Predetermined determinations are made by the controller 80.
[0144] In a case where the water containing the metal ions is
discharged, first at step S101, the three-way valve 63 is set to be
in a state shown in FIG. 6(B). By setting the three-way valve 63 as
mentioned above, the discharging water flows via the first water
discharging hose 601 having the metal ion recovery unit 200. Next,
at step S102, the water discharging valve 62 is opened and
discharging the water is started.
[0145] At step S103, it is confirmed whether discharging the water
has been completed. When discharging the water has been completed,
the water discharging process proceeds to step S104 and is
finished. When discharging the water has not been completed, the
water discharging process proceeds to step S105 and it is confirmed
whether a predetermined period of time has passed. When the
predetermined period of time has not passed, the water discharging
process returns to step S103. When the predetermined period of time
has passed, indicating that it is detected that discharging the
water has not been completed, the water discharging process
proceeds to step S106 and the three-way valve is set to be in a
state shown in FIG. 6(D). By setting the three-way valve as
mentioned above, the discharging water flows via both of the first
water discharging hose 601 and the second water discharging hose
602 as another water discharging channel. Thereafter, the water
discharging process proceeds to step S107, and when discharging the
water has been completed, the water discharging process proceeds to
step S104 and is finished. When discharging the water has not been
completed, the water discharging process returns to step S107.
[0146] FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a process of discharging the
water containing no metal ions in the washing machine of the
another embodiment according to the present invention.
[0147] In a case where the water containing no metal ions is
discharged, first at step S201, the three-way valve 63 is set to be
in a state shown in FIG. 6(C). By setting the three-way valve 63 as
mentioned above, the discharging water flows via the second water
discharging hose 602 not having the metal ion recovery unit 200.
Next, at step S202, the water discharging valve 62 is opened and
discharging the water is started.
[0148] At step S203, it is confirmed whether discharging the water
has been completed. When discharging the water has been completed,
the water discharging process proceeds to step S204 and is
finished. When discharging the water has not been completed, the
water discharging process proceeds to step S205 and it is confirmed
whether a predetermined period of time has passed. When the
predetermined period of time has not passed, the water discharging
process returns to step S203. When the predetermined period of time
has passed, indicating that it is detected that discharging the
water has not been completed, the water discharging process
proceeds to step S206 and the three-way valve is set to be in a
state shown in FIG. 6(D). By setting the three-way valve as
mentioned above, the discharging water flows via both of the second
water discharging hose 602 and the first water discharging hose 601
as another water discharging channel. The water discharging process
proceeds to step S207, and when discharging the water has been
completed, the water discharging process proceeds to step S204 and
is finished. When discharging the water has not been completed, the
water discharging process returns to step S207.
[0149] As described above, by detecting that discharging the water
has not been completed even after the predetermined period of time
has passed, discharging water clogging is detected. When the
discharging water clogging is detected, by using the another water
discharging channel, the water can be discharged. As a result, even
when the discharging water clogging occurs, the laundering can be
completed. At this time, it is preferable that an arrangement is
made such that a user can be notified of an error during the
laundering or upon finishing the laundering, since the user can be
prompted to cope with the error.
Third Embodiment
[0150] FIG. 11 shows a whole cross sectional view of a washing
machine of a third embodiment according to the present invention.
This washing machine includes a bore-less tub.
[0151] As shown in FIG. 11, a washing tub 30b has a peripheral wall
which has a taper shape which gently opens upwardly. This
peripheral wall has no opening for allowing a liquid to pass
therethrough, except for a plurality of dewatering holes 31
disposed in a ring-manner on an uppermost portion thereof When
water is stored in the washing tub 30b for washing, rinsing, and
the like, the water is not stored in an outer tub 20b. In addition,
upon dewatering, after a large part of the stored water has been
discharged, the water contained in the laundry ascends along the
peripheral wall of the washing tub 30b by rotating the washing tub
and is discharged into the outer tub 20b from the dewatering holes
31 at uppermost positions.
[0152] In such a washing machine, the metal ion recovery unit 200
is provided in a water discharging channel through which the water
is discharged from the outer tub 20b. Further, for example, in a
case where the metal ion processing is performed upon the final
rinsing, water discharging before the dewatering is not performed
for the water used for the rinsing, and the water used for the
rinsing is discharged from the dewatering holes 31 by rotating the
washing tub 30b, whereby the discharging water containing the metal
ions can pass through the metal ion recovery unit 200.
[0153] In this case, unlike in the second embodiment, the water
discharged by the intermediate dewatering after the washing process
also passes through the metal ion recovery unit 200. However, this
water is insubstantial water contained in the laundry, and since it
is difficult for the yarn waste to ascend along the peripheral wall
of the washing tub 30b and to pass through the dewatering holes 31,
this water scarcely contains the yarn waste. Therefore, this water
causes no problem.
[0154] In addition, a door 205 is provided at one portion of the
housing 112. The metal ion recovery unit 200 can be detached via
the door 205. In addition maintenance of the filter 204 may be
implemented via this door 205.
[0155] The present invention is applicable to not only the
above-described fully automatic washing machine but also a variety
of washing machines such as a horizontal drum-type washing machine
(tumbler-type), an inclined drum-type washing machine, a drying
machine-cum-washing machine, a dual tub-type washing machine.
[0156] The described embodiments are to be considered in all
respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. It is intended
that the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the
appended claims rather than the foregoing description of the
embodiment and that all modifications and variations coming within
the meaning and equivalency range of the appended claims are
embraced within their scope.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0157] The present invention is applied to a washing machine
operable to apply metal ions to a fabric structure such as
clothing, whereby the metal ions supplied to water used for
laundering can be recovered.
* * * * *