Washing machine

Abstract

The present invention relates to a washing machine, which is capable of forcibly circulating water from the lower portion of a washing tub to the upper portion of the washing tub, thereby enabling circulation washing of the laundry. The washing machine includes a casing, a washing tub, an arrangement for holding the washing tub in the casing and an arrangement for forcibly circulating washing water. The washing tub is mounted in the casing. The holding arrangement serves to allow the washing tub to be positioned to be inclined at a predetermined angle with regard to a vertical axis. The water circulating arrangement forcibly circulates washing water from a bottom of the washing tub to a top of the washing tub and is extended from the bottom of the washing tub to the top of the washing tub.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates, in general, to a washing machine for washing the laundry and, more particularly, to a washing machine, which is capable of forcibly circulating water from the lower portion of a washing tub to the upper portion of the washing tub, thereby enabling the circulation washing of the laundry.

[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art

[0004] FIG. 14 is a partial sectional view showing the inner construction of a conventional inner tub rotating type washing machine.

[0005] As depicted in the drawing, a typical washing machine, in which its washing tub is directly connected to a motor, comprises a casing 10, a washing tub 20 mounted in the casing 10 for washing the laundry, four suspending rods 40 for suspending the washing tub 20 in the casing 10 and damping the vibration of the washing tub 20, and a drive motor 40 mounted under the washing tub 20 for rotating the inner tub (will be described) of the washing tub 20.

[0006] The washing tub 20 is suspended in the casing 10 by the suspending rods 40, and comprises an outer tub 22 for accommodating washing water and an inner tub 23 connected to the drive motor 40 and rotated by the drive motor 40.

[0007] A drain hose 26 and a drain valve 27 for draining washing water are disposed under one side of the outer tub 22. A pulsator 25 for improving washing efficiency is disposed on the bottom of the inner tub 23.

[0008] Accordingly, in the washing tub 20, a washing process is performed in such a way that the inner tub 23 is rotated by the drive motor 40 while the outer tub 22 is suspended in the casing 10 by the suspending rods 30.

[0009] The operation of the conventional washing machine will be described, hereinafter.

[0010] First of all, the door 11 of the casing 10 is opened by a user. When the washing machine is operated while the laundry and a detergent are put into the inner tub 23, washing water is supplied to the washing tub 20 and rises in the outer tub 22 and the inner tub 23 to a predetermined water level. Thereafter, when the drive motor 40 is operated, a washing process is performed while the pulsator 25 and the inner tub 23 are rotated.

[0011] When time lapses after the initiation of the washing process, the drive motor 40 is stopped, the drain valve 27 is opened and washing water is drained to the outside through the drain hose 26.

[0012] When the drainage is completed, water is again supplied to the washing tub 20 and rises in the washing tub 20 to a predetermined water level and, subsequently, a rinsing process is performed. The rinsing process consists of two or three rounds of rinsing. The rinsing process is similar to the washing process, but the time period for operating the drive motor 40 is relatively short in the rinse process.

[0013] After the washing and rinsing processes are completed, there is performed a dewatering process wherein only the inner tub 23 is rotated at a fast speed for dewatering the laundry. In the dewatering process, water contained in the laundry is moved to the outer tub 22 through the tiny holes of the inner tub 23 by centrifugal force created by the rapid rotation of the inner tub 23, and the water moved to the outer tub 22 is drained to the outside through the drain hose 26.

[0014] However, in the conventional washing machine, the laundry is washed in such a way that the washing tub 20 is normally rotated and reversely rotated while the washing tub 20 is vertically positioned. As a result, since the laundry is moved symmetrically, the laundry articles may be tangled with one another. Additionally, since secondary water flow generated in the inner tub 23 by the pulsator 25 is simple, the uniform washing of the laundry is not performed and, accordingly, the washing performance of the washing machine is inferior.

[0015] In addition, since the inner tub 23 must be filled with water to a considerable water level for the rinsing process, not only a great amount of water but also lengthy water supply time period and water drainage time period are needed, thus deteriorating washing efficiency and lengthening an entire washing time period.

[0016] Furthermore, since no provision is made for collecting threads and naps separated from the laundry, the threads and naps separated in the process of washing the laundry cannot be removed from the laundry, thereby imposing limitations on the washing performance of the washing machine.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Accordingly, the present invention has been made keeping in mind the above problems occurring in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine, which is capable of complicating the flow of washing water in such a way that its washing tub is positioned to be inclined at a predetermined angle with regard to a vertical axis, thereby preventing the laundry from being tangled and improving the washing performance of the washing machine.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine, which is capable of performing washing and rinsing processes while water in the lower portion of its inner tub is raised to the upper portion of the inner tub and falls down to the lower portion again, thereby allowing a small amount of water to be needed for the washing and rinsing processes and shortening an entire washing time period.

[0019] A further object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine wherein a thread-bits collecting unit is disposed on a circulation passage or under a washing tub, thereby easily removing impurities such as thread-bits and naps and automatically discharging the impurities to the outside during drainage operation.

[0020] In order to accomplish the above object, the present invention provides a washing machine, comprising: a casing; a washing tub mounted in the casing; means for holding the washing tub in the casing so as to allow the washing tub to be positioned to be inclined at a predetermined angle with regard to a vertical axis; and means for forcibly circulating washing water from a bottom of the washing tub to a top of the washing tub, the water circulating means being extended from the bottom of the washing tub to the top of the washing tub.

[0021] In accordance with another embodiment, there is provided a washing machine, comprising: a casing; a washing tub mounted in the casing for washing the laundry; means for forcibly circulating washing water from a bottom of the washing tub to a top of the washing tub, the water circulating means being extended from the bottom of the washing tub to the top of the washing tub; and a tub rim mounted on a top of the washing tub, the tub rim having a water passage and one or more nozzles, the water passage being connected to the water circulation means, the nozzles sprinkling washing water to an interior of the washing tub.

[0022] In accordance with a further embodiment, there is provided a washing machine, comprising: a casing; a washing tub mounted in the casing for washing the laundry; means for forcibly circulating washing water from a bottom of the washing tub to a top of the washing tub, the water circulating means being extended from the bottom of the washing tub to the top of the washing tub; and means for vertically and uniformly sprinkling washing water to an interior of the washing tub, the sprinkling means being provided on an upper end of the water circulating means.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0023] The above and other objects, features and other advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0024] FIG. 1A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] FIG. 1B is a sectional view showing a pump and a three-way valve;

[0026] FIG. 1C is a partial sectional view showing a case where an integration type pump is mounted;

[0027] FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] FIG. 3A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] FIG. 3B is a sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 3A;

[0030] FIG. 4 is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] FIG. 5A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a vertically sprinkling nozzle;

[0033] FIG. 5C is a side view of the nozzle;

[0034] FIG. 5D is a bottom view of the nozzle;

[0035] FIG. 5E is a side view showing the shape of sprinkled water;

[0036] FIG. 5F is a front view showing the shape of sprinkled water;

[0037] FIG. 6 is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] FIG. 7A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] FIG. 7B is a detailed view of “B” portion of FIG. 7A;

[0040] FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing the principal portion of a washing machine in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] FIG. 9 is a sectional view showing the principal portion of a washing machine in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing the principal portion of a washing machine in accordance with a tenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] FIG. 11A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with an eleventh embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] FIG. 11B is a detailed view of “C” portion of FIG. 11A;

[0045] FIG. 12 is a sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a twelfth embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] FIG. 13A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] FIG. 13B is a detailed view of “D” portion of FIG. 13A; and

[0048] FIG. 14 is a partial sectional view showing the inner construction of a conventional inner washing tub rotating type washing machine.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0049] FIG. 1A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 1B is a sectional view showing a pump and a three-way valve, and FIG. 1C is a partial sectional view showing a case where an integration type pump is mounted.

[0050] A washing machine in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention comprises a casing 50 having a door 55 at its top, a washing tub 60 inclined at a predetermined angle &thgr; with regard to a vertical axis, four suspending rods 57 fixed to the casing 50 at their upper ends and to the washing tub 60 at their lower ends for allowing the washing tub 60 to be inclined, and a drive motor 75 positioned under the washing tub 60 for rotating the inner tub (will be described) of the washing tub 60.

[0051] The washing tub 60 comprises an outer tub 61 mounted in the casing 50 by means of the suspending rods 57 to be inclined, and an inner tub 65 rotated in an outer tub 61 while being connected to the drive motor 75 and provided with a pulsator 66.

[0052] The washing tub 60 consisting of the outer tub 61 and the inner tub 65 is mounted to be inclined at an angle &thgr; in the range of 0°<&thgr;<30°.

[0053] When the washing tub 60 is mounted to be inclined, the water flow in the inner tub 65 has an asymmetrical pattern by the interaction of the force of gravity, centrifugal force and the inclined inner surface of the inner tub 65 and, consequently, cause complicated laundry movement, thereby improving washing efficiency and realizing uniform laundry washing.

[0054] A tub rim 62 is radially projected from the upper end of the outer tub 61 so as to perform centrifugal washing wherein water raised along the inner surface of the outer tub 61 by means of centrifugal force owing to the rotation of the inner tub 65 comes into collision with the tub rim 62 and cascades into the inner tub 65.

[0055] A drain hole 63 is formed on the lowest position of the bottom of the outer tub 61, and a drain hose 64 extending from the drain hole 63 to the outside of the washing machine is connected to the drain hole 63.

[0056] A circulation hose 70 is extended from the front portion of the drain hose 64 to the upper end of the inner tub 65 so as to forcibly circulate water from the low portion of the washing tub 60 to the upper portion of the washing tub 60.

[0057] With the above construction, washing water is circulated through the circulation hose 70 to sprinkle washing water from the upper portion of the washing tub 60 into the interior of the inner tub 65 when washing and rinsing processes are performed, while the washing water is drained through the drain hose 64 when a dewatering process is performed.

[0058] In detail, the circulation hose 70 has a circulation passage 71 integrated with the wall of the outer tub 61 and is extended to the lower surface of the tub rim 62. The upper end of the circulation hose 70 is connected with a nozzle 74 fixed to the tub rim 62.

[0059] Of course, the circulation passage 71 may not be integrated with the outer tub 61, but is separately formed and mounted to the side of the outer tub 61.

[0060] A three-way valve for selectively opening one of water passages to the circulation hose 70 and the drain hose 64 is mounted at a position where the circulation hose 70 is branched off from the drain hose 64. A pump 73 for forcibly circulating or draining water is positioned between the drain hole 63 and the branching position.

[0061] FIG. 1B is a sectional view showing the pump 73 and the three-way valve 72. The pump 73 is a centrifugal pump in which water enters the center of its impeller 73a. The valve 72 is positioned at a position where the circulation hose 70 is branched off from the drain hose 64.

[0062] The three-way valve 72 switches water passages in such a way that the valve body 72b is rotated by a solenoid actuator 72a.

[0063] Accordingly, the pump 73 serves to forcibly circulate water through the circulation hose 70 and the circulation passage 71 and to forcibly drain water through the drain hose 64.

[0064] FIG. 1C is a sectional view showing a case where an integration type pump is mounted. In the integration type pump 80, a centrifugal pump 83 and an axial flow pump 84 are operated while being connected to each other by a single motor shaft 82. The integration type pump 80 serves to generate inhalation and discharge pressures on the centrifugal pump side in a normal operation and to generate inhalation and discharge pressures on the axial flow pump side in a reverse operation.

[0065] If the circulation hose 85 is connected to the centrifugal pump side to circulate washing water, the drain hose 86 is connected to the centrifugal pump side.

[0066] In such a case, washing water flows to the upper portion of the washing tub 60 because pressure is generated on the centrifugal pump side when the integration-type pump 80 is normally operated, whereas washing water is drained to the outside because pressure is generated on the axial flow pump side when the integration type pump 80 is reversely operated.

[0067] When the integration type pump 80 is employed, the three-way valve is not necessary, differently from the previous embodiment wherein the three-way valve is employed. Two inhalation side hoses 87 are respectively connected to the bottom of the outer tub 61 or a single hose connected to the bottom of the outer tub 61 is divided into two inhalation side hoses 87.

[0068] On the other hand, instead of the centrifugal pump of FIG. 1B and the integration-type pump of FIG. 1C, a circulation hose and a drain hose are separately connected to the bottom of the outer tub, and a circulation pump and a drainage pump are respectively mounted to the circulation hose and the drain hose.

[0069] The operation of the washing machine of the first embodiment is as follows.

[0070] When the washing machine is started, washing water rises in the washing tub 60 to a proper water level. At this time, since the washing tub 60 is inclined, the washing tub 60 is asymmetrical with regard to a vertical axis.

[0071] In this state, when the drive motor 75 is operated, the inner tub 65 is rotated. Since the inner tub 65 is inclined with regard to a vertical direction, water forms a primary flow of a complicated pattern by means of the interaction of the force of gravity, centrifugal force and the inclined inner surface of the inner tub 65.

[0072] Additionally, since the pulsator 66 mounted in the inner tub 65 is inclined with regard to a vertical axis, upward force as well as centrifugal force is generated, thereby generating a secondary water flow in an asymmetrically complicated pattern.

[0073] When the inner tub 65 is rotated at a speed more than a predetermined speed, efficient washing is possible owing to the rotation of the outer tub 61. That is, since water raised along the inner surface of the outer tub 61 cascades into the inner tub 65 and simultaneously complicated water flow is generated in the inner tub 65, friction between washing water and laundry is increased and, consequently, washing performance is improved.

[0074] Additionally, when the pump 73 is operated, washing water can be circulated through the circulation hose 85 and be sprinkled to the inner tub 65 through the nozzle 74 together with cascading water, thereby improving washing efficiency.

[0075] In brief, when a washing process is performed by means of the washing machine of the first embodiment, complicated laundry movement is generated owing to the inclination of the inner tub 65 and, at the same time, the centrifugal washing owing to the rotation of the inner tub 65 and the circulation washing owing to the operation of the pump 73 can be achieved. As a result, since the generation of the symmetrical flow is minimized, the tangling of the laundry is prevented and the effective washing of the laundry is possible due to the uniform friction between the washing water and the laundry.

[0076] Meanwhile, the operation in which washing water is sprinkled from the top of the inner tub 65 to the interior of the inner tub 65 causes superior effects while the rinsing process is performed. That is, the rinsing process is performed by means of agitation rinsing owing to the rotation of the inner tub 65 in the conventional art, but the rinsing process is performed by means of centrifugal rinsing, wherein washing water is sprinkled from the top of the inner tub 65 to the interior of the inner tub 65, together with the agitation rinsing. Accordingly, the rinsing effect of the laundry is improved considerably.

[0077] Furthermore, since the centrifugal and the agitation rinsing can be performed in such a way that water is circulated from the bottom portion of the inner tub 65 to the top portion of the inner tub 65 while the inner tub 65 is inclined, thereby achieving high rinsing performance with a relatively small amount of water.

[0078] That is, when the rinsing process is performed by means of the agitation rinsing owing to the rotation of the inner tub 65, water is supplied to the height of the laundry and, thereafter, the rinsing is effected by means of friction between the washing water and the laundry. On the other hand, since the centrifugal rinsing, wherein water is circulated from the bottom portion of the inner tub 65 to the top portion of the inner tub 65 and is sprinkled from the top portion into the inner tub 65 while the inner tub 65 is inclined, together with the agitation rinsing is performed, the rinsing of the laundry is effectively performed with a relatively small amount of water.

[0079] Accordingly, for example, if 160 liters of water is used for the agitation rinsing, 50 liters of water is sufficient for the agitation and centrifugal rinsing. Additionally, with such an amount of water, the rinsing performance is increased by 10%.

[0080] Since a time period for supplying water and draining water is shortened because the relatively small amount of water is utilized, a time period for the entire washing time period for the laundry is shortened, or the rinsing effect can be increased considerably by increasing the number of rounds of the rinsing.

[0081] FIG. 2 is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] The circulation passage 70 is formed on the washing tub side in the first embodiment, whereas a circulation passage 70′ is formed on the casing side in the second embodiment.

[0083] That is, a drain hose 64′ is extended from the drain hole 63′ of a washing tub 60′ to the outside of the washing machine. A circulation hose 70′ is branched off from the drain hose 64′. A pump 73′ and a three-way valve are mounted in the lower portion of the casing 50′ at a position where the circulation hose 70′ is branched off from the drain hose 64′.

[0084] The circulation hose 70′ is extended to a position under a casing cover 51′ of the casing 50′ while being fixed by means of a plurality of holders 50a′, and is connected at its upper end to a nozzle 74′ fixed to the casing cover 51′ to sprinkle washing water into the interior an inner tub 65′.

[0085] Additionally, a water supply pipe 52′, a detergent input hole 53′ and a control panel 54′ are mounted on the casing cover 51′ of the casing 50′. A door 55′ is mounted to the front portion of the casing cover 51′.

[0086] FIG. 3A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3B is a sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 3A.

[0087] In the washing machine of this embodiment, a washing tub 160 is positioned to be inclined at a predetermined angle &thgr; with regard to a vertical axis as in the first and second embodiments.

[0088] A drain hose 164 is connected to the bottom portion of a washing tub 160, a circulation hose 170 is branched off from the drain hose 164, and a three-way valve and a pump 173 are mounted at a position where the circulation hose 170 is branched off from the drain hose 164.

[0089] A circulation passage 172 connected to the circulation hose 170 is integrated with the side of an outer tub 161 into a single body.

[0090] A tub rim 180 is a ring-shaped plate and is projected from the top of the outer tub 161. As illustrated in FIG. 3B, a water passage 181 is radially formed along the interior of the tub rim 180, and a plurality of nozzles 183 are formed on the inner periphery of the tub rim 180 to sprinkle washing water into the interior of the inner tub 165.

[0091] The nozzles 183 are formed by cutting out a plurality of the portions of the water passage 181. The outer ends of the nozzles 183 may be projected to the inner tub 165 by a predetermined length.

[0092] The nozzles 183 are preferably positioned at relatively high positions because the washing tub 160 is inclined. When seen from the front of the washing machine, the nozzles 183 are preferably positioned symmetrically.

[0093] Although two nozzles 183 are depicted to be formed on the tub rim 180 in FIG. 3B, four or six nozzles may be symmetrically formed on the tub rim 180 as occasion demands.

[0094] Since the washing tub 160 is inclined at a predetermined angle in the third embodiment as described above, complicated, asymmetrical laundry movement is generated when the inner tub 165 is rotated. When the inner tub 165 is rotated at a speed more than a predetermined speed, centrifugal washing is achieved by the action of the tub rim 180.

[0095] When the pump 173 is operated, washing water is forcibly circulated to the top of the washing tub 160 through the circulation hose 170, the circulation passage 172, the water passage 181 of the tub rim 180 and the nozzles 183, and, subsequently, is sprinkled into the interior of the inner tub 165.

[0096] Therefore, since washing water is forcibly circulated to the nozzles 183 formed on the tub rim 180 using the pump 173, circulation washing and rinsing, wherein washing water is sprinkled from the top of the washing tub 160, can be achieved while the inner tub 165 is rotated at a speed less than the predetermined speed.

[0097] In particular, since a plurality of nozzles 183 are symmetrically formed on the tub rim 180, efficient circulation washing is achieved.

[0098] FIG. 4 is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] The washing tub 160 is inclined at a predetermined angle in the third embodiment, whereas a washing tub 160′ is vertically mounted in a casing 150′ in the fourth embodiment.

[0100] A drain hose 164′ is connected to the bottom of the washing tub 160′, a circulation hose 170′ is branched off from the drain hose 164′, and a three-way valve and a pump 173′ are disposed at a position where the circulation hose 170′ is branched off from the drain hose 164′.

[0101] A circulation passage 172′ is integrated with one side of an outer tub 161′. A water passage 181′ is circumferentially formed in the tub rim 180′, and is connected with the circulation passage 172′.

[0102] A plurality of nozzles 183′ are formed by cutting out a plurality of inner portions of the water passage 181′ of the tub rim 180′.

[0103] In this embodiment, water is circulated through the circulating hose 170′, the circulating passage 172′, the water passage 181′ of the tub rim 180′ and the nozzle 183′ by the pump 173′ as in the third embodiment, so that circulation washing and rinsing can be performed.

[0104] FIG. 5A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a vertically sprinkling nozzle. FIG. 5C is a side view of the nozzle. FIG. 5D is a bottom view of the nozzle. FIG. 5E is a side view showing the shape of sprinkled water. FIG. 5F is a front view showing the shape of sprinkled water.

[0105] In the fifth embodiment, a vertically sprinkling nozzle 280 for sprinkling washing water in the form of a cascade to the interior of an inner tub 265 is provided over a tub rim 262, and is connected with the upper end of a circulation hose 270.

[0106] Additionally, a washing tub 260 is inclined at a predetermined angle &thgr; with regard to a vertical axis.

[0107] As depicted in FIGS. 5B to 5D, the vertically sprinkling nozzle 280 comprises a nozzle body 281 widened in the form of fan toward its outer end, a flow orienting end wall 283 formed on the outer end of the nozzle body 281 for orienting circulated water to a downward direction, and a sprinkling aperture 285 formed on the lower surface of the nozzle body 281 in the vicinity of the flow orienting end wall 283 for sprinkling the circulated water to the downward direction.

[0108] The nozzle body 281 has a fan shape in which its width is larger that its height so that water flowing from the circulation hose 270 is spread horizontally.

[0109] The flow orienting end wall 283 is projected lower than the lower surface of the nozzle body 281 so as to orient water flowing out of the nozzle body 281 to a downward direction securely. The sidewalls 282 of the nozzle body 281 are extended to the lower end of the flow orienting end wall 283.

[0110] As illustrated in FIG. 5D, the sprinkling aperture 285 has the shape of a right-angled triangle that becomes widened in a direction from one side to the other side so that washing water sprinkled to the interior of the washing tub is widened in its length.

[0111] That is, an inner line 286 defining an inner side of the sprinkling aperture 285 is a straight line, whereas an outer line 284 defining an outer side of the sprinkling aperture 285 is an oblique line and is separated from the inner line 286 in a direction from one side to the other side.

[0112] As illustrated in FIGS. 5E and 5F, since the vertically sprinkling nozzle 280 is provided in the fifth embodiment, the falling water flow is widened in its length.

[0113] Washing water flowing into the nozzle body 281 is horizontally spread, comes into collision with the flow orienting end wall 283 and is oriented to the downward direction. Thereafter, the water is vertically sprinkled to the interior of the washing tub 260 through the sprinkling aperture 285. At this time, the water is uniformly sprinkled over the interior of the washing tub 260 by the sprinkling aperture 285 of a lengthy triangular shape.

[0114] Additionally, since the sprinkling aperture 285 of the vertically sprinkling nozzle 280 has a right-angled triangle shape and the flow orienting end wall 283 is oblique, the water falls down while being widened in its length as shown in FIG. 5E and being narrowed in its width as shown in FIG. 5F.

[0115] As a result, the water falling while being widened in its length uniformly comes into collision with the laundry and, thereafter, flows radially to the outer portion of the interior of the washing tub 265.

[0116] Furthermore, since the sprinkling aperture 285 of the vertically sprinkling nozzle 280 is widely formed, resistance against water is minimized when the washing water is sprinkled from the sprinkling aperture 285, thereby preventing the sprinkling aperture 285 from being stopped up and allowing a pump of a small capacity to be utilized to circulate the washing water.

[0117] FIG. 6 is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] In the sixth embodiment, a washing tub 260′ is vertically disposed, and a circulation hose 270′ branched off from a drain hose 264′ is fixed to a casing 250′ of the washing machine.

[0119] A vertically sprinkling nozzle 280′ connected to the upper end of the circulation hose 270′ is fixed to a casing cover 251′ that constitutes the top of the casing 250′.

[0120] In accordance with the sixth embodiment, since washing water is uniformly sprinkled over the interior of the washing tub 260′ through the vertically sprinkling nozzle 280′ and, consequently, circulation washing and rinsing are achieved, the washing performance of the washing machine is improved.

[0121] FIG. 7A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7B is a detailed view of “B” portion of FIG. 7A.

[0122] In the seventh embodiment, as in the first embodiment, a washing tub 360 is positioned in the casing 350 to be inclined at a predetermined angle &thgr;, a three-way valve is mounted at a position where a circulation hose 370 is branched off from a drain hose 364 for selectively opening one of water passages to the circulation hose 370 and the drain hose 364, and a pump 373 is positioned over the three-way valve so as to forcibly circulate or drain washing water.

[0123] The circulation hose 370 is extended to the underside of a tub rim 362 through a circulation passage 371 integrated with one side of the outer tub 361. A nozzle 374 fixed to the tub rim 362 is connected to the upper end of the circulation hose 370 so as to sprinkle washing water to the interior of the inner tub 365.

[0124] In particular, in this embodiment, a thread-bits collecting unit 380 is mounted to the upper portion of the circulation passage 371 so as to remove thread-bits and naps from washing water.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 7B, an inward bend 371a is formed on the upper portion of the circulation passage 371 and a bypass 372 is branched from the circulation passage 371 after the inward bend 371a at a position where centrifugal force is relatively great.

[0126] Since the thread-bits and naps are solid materials, they are moved outward by means of centrifugal force while passing through the bend 371a. The bypass 372 is formed through a portion where the thread-bits and naps pass.

[0127] A mount hole 372a is formed on the upper portion of the bypass 372 so as to allow the thread-bits collecting unit 380 to be mounted, and a through hole 362a is formed on a tub rim 362 so as to receive the thread-bits collecting unit 380.

[0128] The thread-bits collecting unit 380 consists of a unit casing 381 and a collecting net 383. The unit casing 381 is inserted into the mount hole 372a of the bypass 372 through the through hole 362a. An inlet and an outlet are formed in the unit casing 381 so as to allow washing water to pass through the casing 381. The collecting net 383 is shaped in the form of a net so as to collect thread-bits and naps and is fixed to the outlet of the unit casing 381.

[0129] The thread-bits collecting unit 383 is removably mounted into the bypass 372 through the through hole 362a. In order to fix the thread-bits collecting unit 383 to the tub rim 362, an engaging groove 362b is formed on the tub rim 362. Packing means 362c is provided so as to allow the thread-bits collecting unit 383 to come into tight contact with the tub rim 362 and prevent washing water from leaking.

[0130] A grip 385 is formed on the upper surface of the thread-bits collecting unit 380 so as to allow the thread-bits collecting unit 380 to be easily removed from the bypass 372.

[0131] In accordance with the seventh embodiment, washing water is forcibly moved to the upper portion of the washing machine through the circulation hose 370 and the circulation passage 371, and thread-bits and naps are moved through the bypass 372 while washing water passes through the bend 371a of the circulation passage 371.

[0132] While the washing water passes through the bend 371a, the thread-bits and naps are caught by the collecting net 383 and pure washing water is sprinkled to the washing tub 360 through the nozzle 374. Accordingly, since thread-bits and naps can be removed by the thread-bits collecting unit 380 during circulating washing and rinsing processes, the laundry can be washed effectively.

[0133] Additionally, since the thread-bits collecting unit 380 can be removed through the through hole 362a of the tub rim 362, collected separated threads and naps can be easily discarded.

[0134] FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing the principal portion of a washing machine in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] In accordance with the seventh embodiment, the bypass 372 is branched from the circulation passage 371 and the thread-bits collecting unit 380 is disposed in the bypass 372, whereas in accordance with the eighth embodiment, a thread-bits collecting unit 315 is directly disposed in a circulation passage 310.

[0136] The circulation passage 310 is bent inwardly under a tub rim 313. A mount hole 312 is formed on the circulation passage 310 after a bend 311 so as to allow the thread-bits collecting unit 315 to be mounted in the circulation passage 310, and a through hole 314 is formed on the tub rim 313 so as to receive the thread-bits collecting unit 315.

[0137] The thread-bits collecting unit 315 is opened at its inlet 316 and is covered with a collecting net 317. A grip 318 is formed on the upper surface of the thread-bits collecting unit 315.

[0138] The thread-bits collecting unit 315 is disposed in the upper portion of the circulation passage 310. The lower portion of the circulation passage 310 is opened so as to allow washing water to pass through the circulation passage 310 without resistance.

[0139] FIG. 9 is a sectional view showing the principal portion of a washing machine in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

[0140] A nozzle pipe 325 for sprinkling washing water to the interior of an inner tub is combined with the upper end of a circulation passage 321 extended to the underside of a tub rim 320. The nozzle pipe 325 is removably combined with the circulation passage 321 in a screw engagement fashion.

[0141] A thread-bits collecting unit 326 is mounted in the interior of the nozzle pipe 325 so as to collect thread-bits and naps. The thread-bits collecting unit 326 is mounted to the entrance of the nozzle pipe 325 and is a net in the form of a pocket that is opened at its inlet.

[0142] Accordingly, thread-bits and naps are caught by the thread-bits collecting unit 326 while washing water passes through the thread-bits collecting unit 326. If the nozzle pipe 325 is removed from the circulation passage 321 and is turned upside down, the thread-bits and naps caught by the thread-bits collecting unit 326 are easily removed from the thread-bits collecting unit 326.

[0143] FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing the principal portion of a washing machine in accordance with a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] In accordance with the tenth embodiment, a circulation hose 335 is branched from a drain hose 333 and fixed to a casing 331, and a nozzle pipe 337 for sprinkling washing water is mounted to a casing cover 332, differently from the seventh embodiment.

[0145] The nozzle pipe 337 is removably connected with the circulation hose 335. A thread-bits collecting unit 338 is mounted to the interior of the nozzle pipe 337 as in the ninth embodiment.

[0146] A pump 334 and a three-way valve are mounted at a position where the circulation hose 335 is branched from the drain hose 333 and are fixed to the bottom of a casing 331.

[0147] FIG. 11A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11B is a detailed view of “C” portion of FIG. 11A.

[0148] A washing machine of the eleventh embodiment comprises a washing tub 460 positioned to be inclined at a predetermined angle &thgr; with regard to a vertical axis, a circulation hose 470 extended from the bottom of the washing tub 460 to the top of the washing tub 460 for sprinkling washing water from the top of the washing tub 460, a circulation pump 471 disposed on the circulation hose 470 for forcibly circulating washing water, a cyclone thread-bits separator 480 disposed on the circulation hose 470 to collect thread-bits and naps in a cyclone fashion, a thread-bits storage chamber 485 connected to the lower portion of the cyclone thread-bits separator 480 for storing thread-bits and naps, and a drain hose 490 extended from the lower portion of the thread-bits storage chamber 485 to the outside for discharging stored thread-bits and naps.

[0149] The circulation hose 470 may be integrated with the side of an outer tub 461. The upper end portion of the circulation hose 470 is fixed to the upper portion of the washing tub 460 and is provided with a nozzle 472 so as to sprinkle washing water to the interior of an inner tub 465.

[0150] The circulation pump 471 is disposed on the circulation hose 470 at a position under the cyclone thread-bits separator 480, and serves to provide pumping force so as to allow washing water passing through the cyclone thread-bits separator 480 to be sprinkled to the inner tub 465.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 11B, the cyclone thread-bits separator 480 comprises a cone-shaped collecting barrel 481. The collecting barrel 481 has an inlet 482, an outlet 483 and a circulation hole 484. The inlet 482 is formed at the upper side portion of the collecting barrel 481 and receives washing water. The outlet 483 is formed at the bottom of the collecting barrel 481 and allows impurities or washing water to be passed through. The circulation hole 484 is formed at the top of the collecting barrel 481 and allows washing water free from the thread-bits and naps to flow into the circulation hose 470.

[0152] The cyclone thread-bits separator 480 utilizes a cyclone principle that is applied to the separation of solid materials suspended on gas or liquid.

[0153] The thread-bits storage chamber 485 has a bulged shape so as to store the thread-bits and naps discharged from the cyclone thread-bits separator 480.

[0154] The drain hose 490 is extended from the underside of the thread-bits storage chamber 485 to the outside of a casing 450. A drain valve 495 for selectively opening and closing a water passage is disposed on the drain hose 490.

[0155] In the eleventh embodiment, after circulation washing is performed by the operation of a circulation pump 471, water collected in the underside of the washing tub 460 passes through the cyclone thread-bits separator 480 and the circulation hose 470 and, thereafter, is sprinkled to the interior of the inner tub 465 through the nozzle 472.

[0156] Washing water passing through the cyclone thread-bits separator 480 flows into the inlet 482 in a tangential direction and, thereafter, falls down while forming a swirl of a high speed in the interior of the separator barrel 481.

[0157] In such a case, solid materials such as thread-bits and naps come into collision with the inner wall of the separation barrel 481 and, consequently, lose kinetic energy. As a result, the solid materials fall into the thread-bits storage chamber 485 through the outlet 483, whereas washing water is discharged into the circulating hose 470 through the circulation hole 484.

[0158] If the drain valve 495 is opened while the solid materials such as thread-bits and sand are stored in the thread-bits storage chamber 485, solid materials are automatically discharged together with the washing water to the outside through the drain hose 490.

[0159] FIG. 12 is a sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[0160] In accordance with the twelfth embodiment, a washing tub 460′ consisting of an outer tub 461′ and an inner tub 465′ is vertically mounted in the interior of a casing 450′.

[0161] A circulation hose 470′ is extended from the bottom of the outer tub 461′ to the top of the inner tub 465′ to enable circulation washing. A cyclone thread-bits separator 480′ is disposed on the circulation hose 470′, and serves to separate solid materials such as thread-bits in a cyclone fashion.

[0162] A pump 471′ is disposed on the entrance of the cyclone thread-bits separator 471′ to generate pumping force for the forcible circulation or drainage of washing water. A drain hose 490′ is extended from the bottom of the thread-bits storage chamber 485′ to the upper portion of the casing 450′ to discharge solid materials such as washing water and thread-bits.

[0163] A drain valve 495′ for selectively opening and closing a water passage is disposed on the drain hose 490′. A cutoff valve 497 for cutting off a water passage during drainage operation is disposed on the circulation hose 470′ after the thread-bits separator 480′.

[0164] In accordance with the twelfth embodiment, washing and rinsing processes are performed while the inner tub 465′ is rotated by the operation of the drive motor 475′, and circulation washing is performed by the operation of the pump 471′.

[0165] In such operation, thread-bits are separated from washing water while the washing water passes through the thread-bits separator 480′ and stored in the thread-bits storage chamber 485′. If during the drainage of washing water, the pump 471′ is operated while the cutoff valve 497 is closed and the drain valve 495′ is opened, the thread-bits together with the washing water are discharged to the outside through the drain hose 490′.

[0166] FIG. 13A is a partial sectional view showing a washing machine in accordance with a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13B is a detailed view of “D” portion of FIG. 13A.

[0167] The washing machine of the thirteenth embodiment includes a thread-bits collecting chamber 580 formed under a washing tub 560 for collecting impurities such as thread-bits, a circulation hose 570 extended from the thread-bits collecting chamber 580 to the top of the washing tub 560 for circulating and sprinkling washing water, a filtering net 582 mounted in the thread-bits collecting chamber 580 in the vicinity of the entrance of the circulation hose 570 for filtering impurities such as thread-bits, and a pump 572 disposed on the circulation hose 570 for forcibly circulating washing water.

[0168] The washing machine further includes a drain hose 585 branched off from the circulation hose 570 after the pump 572, a three-way valve 573 disposed at a position where the drain hose 585 is branched off from the circulation hose 570 for switching water passages, and a thread-bits discharge pressure generator 588 shaped in the form of a venturi tube for discharging impurities such as thread-bits from the thread-bits collecting chamber 580 by pressure difference.

[0169] The circulation hose 570 can be integrated with the side of an outer tub 561. The upper end portion of the circulation hose 570 is fixed to the upper portion of the washing tub 560 and is provided with a nozzle 574 so as to sprinkle washing water to the interior of an inner tub 565.

[0170] A pump 572 provides pumping force for the forcible circulation or drainage of washing water through the circulation hose 570 or drain hose 585.

[0171] The drain hose 585 is positioned to be over the full water level of the washing tub 560 at its upper end. In such a case, it is not necessary to disposed a drain valve in the drain hose 585.

[0172] The thread-bits discharge pressure generator 588 comprises a venturi tube 586 formed in the drain hose 585 and a thread-bits discharge passage 587 connecting the bottom of the thread-bits collecting chamber 580 with the venturi tube 586 and discharging the thread-bits to the outside.

[0173] In such a case, the thread-bits discharge passage 587 is connected to the venturi tube 586 at a position where pressure is lowest.

[0174] If the upper end portion of the drain hose 585 is positioned under the water level of the washing tub 560, a drain valve must be disposed so as to prevent washing water from being drained naturally.

[0175] In accordance with the thirteenth embodiment, when the pump 572 is operated, solid materials are collected in the thread-bits collecting chamber 580 because washing water passes through the filtering net 582 in the process of entering the circulation hose 570.

[0176] Since the above-described flow of washing water is maintained during washing and rinsing processes, impurities such as thread-bits are collected in the thread-bits collecting chamber 580.

[0177] When the pump 572 is operated while the drain hose 585 is opened by the manipulation of the three-way valve 573, washing water is drained to the outside through the drain hose 585. At this time, since relatively low pressure is generated when washing water passes through the venturi tube 586, impurities such as thread-bits stored in the thread-bits collecting chamber 580 are automatically discharged together with the washing water to the outside through the drain hose 585.

[0178] In accordance with the present invention, since its washing tub is inclined at a predetermined angle with regard to a vertical axis and centrifugal and circulation washing is achieved, the flow of washing water is complicated during entire washing operation, thereby preventing the laundry from being tangled and improving the washing performance of the washing machine.

[0179] Additionally, in accordance with the present invention, since washing and rinsing processes are performed while washing water is circulated in such a way that washing water in the bottom of the washing tub is raised to the top of the washing tub, the washing and rinsing processes can be performed using a relatively small amount of water and the period of time for entire washing operation is shortened considerably.

[0180] In accordance with the present invention, since a thread-bits collecting unit is disposed in a circulation hose, impurities such as thread-bits and naps can be easily removed from washing water, thereby improving the washing performance of the washing machine.

[0181] In accordance with the present invention, since a cyclone thread-bits separator is disposed on a circulation hose or a thread-bits collecting chamber is disposed under a washing tub, impurities such as thread-bits and naps are automatically discharged to the outside during a drainage operation, thereby easily removing the impurities from the laundry and discharging the impurities to the outside.

[0182] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising:

a washing tub mounted in a casing of the washing machine;

a circulation passage extended from a bottom of the washing tub to a top of the washing tub for sprinkling washing water to an interior of the washing tub;

a circulation pump disposed on the circulation passage for forcibly circulating washing water;

a cyclone thread-bits separator disposed on the circulation passage for collecting thread-bits and naps in a cyclone fashion;

a thread-bits storage chamber connected to a lower portion of the cyclone thread-bits separator for storing thread-bits and naps; and

drain means extended from a lower portion of the thread-bits storage chamber to the outside for discharging stored thread-bits and naps together with washing water.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein

said pump is disposed on a circulation passage portion connected with an outlet of said cyclone thread-bits separator; and

said drain means comprises a drain hose extended from a bottom of the thread-bits collecting chamber to the outside for draining water naturally and a drain valve disposed on the drain hose for selectively opening and closing a water passage.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein said cyclone thread-bits separator comprises a cone-shaped collecting barrel, the collecting barrel having an inlet, an outlet and a circulation hole, said inlet being formed at an upper side portion of the collecting barrel and receiving washing water, said outlet being formed at a bottom of the collecting barrel and allowing impurities or washing water to be passed through, said circulation hole being formed at a top of the collecting barrel and allowing washing water free from the thread-bits and naps to flow into the circulation passage.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein

said pump is disposed on a first circulation passage portion connected with an inlet of said cyclone thread-bits separator; and

said drain means comprises a drain hose extended from a bottom of the thread-bits collecting chamber to a position higher than a top of the washing tub, a drain valve disposed on the drain hose for selectively opening and closing a water passage, and a cutoff valve disposed on a second circulation passage portion connected with an outlet of said cyclone thread-bits separator.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein said cyclone thread-bits separator comprises a cone-shaped collecting barrel, the collecting barrel having an inlet, an outlet and a circulation hole, said inlet being formed at an upper side portion of the collecting barrel and receiving washing water, said outlet being formed at a bottom of the collecting barrel and allowing impurities or washing water to be passed through, said circulation hole being formed at a top of the collecting barrel and allowing washing water free from the thread-bits and naps to flow into the circulation passage.

6. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein said cyclone thread-bits separator comprises a cone-shaped collecting barrel, the collecting barrel having an inlet, an outlet and a circulation hole, said inlet being formed at an upper side portion of the collecting barrel and receiving washing water, said outlet being formed at a bottom of the collecting barrel and allowing impurities or washing water to be passed through, said circulation hole being formed at a top of the collecting barrel and allowing washing water free from the thread-bits and naps to flow into the circulation passage.