JP7249130B2 - washing machine - Google Patents

Description

The technology disclosed in this specification relates to washing machines.

Patent document 1 discloses a washing machine. The washing machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a washing tub, an automatic loading device that automatically loads detergent into the washing tub, and a detergent tank that stores the detergent loaded into the washing tub by the automatic loading device. .

JP-A-7-275569

In the washing machine disclosed in Patent Document 1, the remaining amount of detergent contained in the detergent tank is displayed on the display. Therefore, the user of the washing machine can check the remaining amount of detergent. However, in the washing machine of Patent Document 1, although the user can check the remaining amount of detergent, it is unknown how many more times the laundry can be washed with that remaining amount. The present specification provides a technology that allows the user to recognize the number of washings allowed.

The washing machine disclosed in the present specification includes a washing tub for storing laundry, an automatic loading device for automatically loading a laundry treatment agent into the washing tub, and a laundry processing agent loaded into the washing tub by the automatic loading device. a processing agent tank containing a laundry processing agent, a display unit, and a control unit. The control unit displays on the display unit the number of washings that can be performed, which is calculated based on the amount of the laundry processing agent contained in the processing agent tank and the amount of the laundry processing agent used in one wash. do.

1 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to an embodiment; FIG. It is a figure which shows typically the washing machine which concerns on an Example. 1 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment; FIG. It is a figure which shows typically the automatic injection apparatus which concerns on an Example. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit according to the first embodiment; FIG. 4 is a table showing an example of washable number of times according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flow chart of a washable number display process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of a screen displayed on the display section according to the first example; FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit according to the second embodiment; FIG. It is a table which shows an example of the number of times which can be washed concerning 2nd Example. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit according to the third embodiment; FIG. FIG. 11 is a table showing an example of the number of times washing can be performed according to the third embodiment; FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit according to the fourth embodiment; FIG. FIG. 13 is a table showing an example of the number of times washing can be performed according to the fourth embodiment; FIG. FIG. 15 is a table showing an example of the number of times washing can be performed according to the fifth embodiment; FIG. FIG. 16 is a flowchart of a washable number display process according to the fifth embodiment; FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit according to the fifth embodiment; FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit according to another embodiment;

A washing machine 10 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the washing machine 10 according to the embodiment includes a main body 11, a lid 12, a washing tub 13, a drum 14, and a motor 15. The washing machine 10 according to the embodiment is a drum-type washing machine. The washing machine 10 also includes a water supply channel 16, a drainage channel 17, an automatic loading device 20, a detergent tank 30 (an example of a treatment agent tank), and a softener tank 50 (another example of a treatment agent tank). I have. Washing machine 10 also includes tank detector 43 , display 44 , operation unit 45 , controller 41 , storage 42 , and weight detector 46 , as shown in FIG. 3 . Note that the weight detection unit 46 will be described in detail in a fifth embodiment, which will be described later.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, main body 11 of washing machine 10 has opening 111 . The lid 12 of the washing machine 10 is attached to the main body 11 and opens and closes the opening 111 of the main body 11 . A start button 80 is provided on the upper portion of the main body 11 . Inside the main body 11, a washing tub 13, a drum 14 and a motor 15 are arranged.

The washing tub 13 is arranged in the central part inside the main body 11 . The washing tub 13 contains water for washing. The drum 14 is arranged inside the washing tub 13 and rotates inside the washing tub 13 . The drum 14 rotates while containing the laundry. A motor 15 is arranged behind the drum 14 and rotates the drum 14 .

The water supply channel 16 of the washing machine 10 is connected to a water supply source (not shown) at its upstream end and to the washing tub 13 at its downstream end. The water supply path 16 supplies water from a water supply source into the washing tub 13 . A water supply valve 18 is provided in the water supply path 16 . A water supply valve 18 opens and closes the water supply path 16 . Water is supplied to the washing tub 13 when the water supply valve 18 is opened.

The drain channel 17 of the washing machine 10 has an upstream end connected to the washing tub 13 and a downstream end connected to, for example, a wash pan drain (not shown). The drainage channel 17 discharges the water in the washing tub 13 to a drainage port. A drain valve 19 is provided in the drain channel 17 . The drain valve 19 opens and closes the drain channel 17 . When the drain valve 19 is opened, the water in the washing tub 13 is drained.

The automatic loading device 20 of the washing machine 10 is arranged inside the main body 11 . The automatic loading device 20 is arranged on the upper part of the main body 11 . The automatic loading device 20 is a device capable of automatically loading a laundry processing agent (for example, detergent, softener, bleach, etc.) into the washing tub 13 . The automatic loading device 20 automatically loads the detergent contained in the detergent tank 30 into the washing tub 13 while the detergent tank 30 is attached to the automatic loading device 20 . Further, the automatic injection device 20 automatically throws the softener contained in the softener tank 50 into the washing tub 13 while the softener tank 50 is attached to the automatic injection device 20 .

As shown in FIG. 4, the automatic loading device 20 includes a detachable container 21, a lid 28, an open/close detector 29, a first detergent supply path 22, a piston pump 23, and a second detergent supply path 24. ing. Detachable container 21 accommodates detergent tank 30 . A user of the washing machine 10 puts the detergent tank 30 into the removable container 21 or removes the detergent tank 30 from the removable container 21 . The detergent tank 30 is attached to and detached from the attachment/detachment container 21 . The lid 28 of the automatic loading device 20 opens and closes the opening 211 of the removable container 21 . The detergent tank 30 contains a liquid detergent (an example of a laundry treatment agent). The removable container 21 of the automatic loading device 20 accommodates a softener tank 50 (not shown in FIG. 3). The softener tank 50 contains a liquid softener (another example of a laundry treatment agent). In the following description, the softener tank 50 has the same configuration as the detergent tank 30 except for the type of liquid contained therein, so detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The detergent tank 30 has an inlet 31 and an outlet 32 . Detergent is injected into the detergent tank 30 from an inlet 31 of the detergent tank 30 . A user of the washing machine 10 injects detergent into the detergent tank 30 . The user can inject detergent into the detergent tank 30 while the detergent tank 30 is attached to the removable container 21 or while the detergent tank 30 is removed from the removable container 21 . Detergent in detergent tank 30 is discharged from outlet 32 of detergent tank 30 . A scale 39 for measuring the amount of detergent contained in the detergent tank 30 is provided on the side surface of the detergent tank 30 . A user can measure the amount of detergent by looking at the scale 39 .

The opening/closing detector 29 of the automatic loading device 20 is fixed to the lower surface of the lid 28 and can detect opening/closing of the lid 28 . The open/close detector 29 is, for example, a pressure sensor. Alternatively, the opening/closing detector 29 may be configured by a reed switch (not shown) attached to the removable container 21 and a magnet (not shown) attached to the lid 28 . The open/close detector 29 contacts the upper portion of the removable container 21 when the lid 28 is closed. When the open/close detector 29 contacts the top of the removable container 21, it can detect that the lid 28 is closed. Further, the open/close detector 29 is separated from the top of the removable container 21 when the lid 28 is opened. By separating the open/close detector 29 from the top of the removable container 21, it is possible to detect that the lid 28 is opened. The detection result of the open/close detector 29 is transmitted to the controller 41 .

The first detergent supply path 22 of the automatic dosing device 20 is connected at its upstream end to the detachable container 21 and at its downstream end to the piston pump 23 . The upstream end of the first detergent supply path 22 is connected to the outlet 32 of the detergent tank 30 when the detergent tank 30 is attached to the detachable container 21 . The first detergent supply passage 22 supplies detergent from the detergent tank 30 to the piston pump 23 . A first check valve 25 is provided in the first detergent supply path 22 . The first check valve 25 allows the detergent to flow from the removable container 21 side to the piston pump 23 side and prohibits the detergent from flowing to the opposite side.

The second detergent supply channel 24 of the automatic dosing device 20 is connected at its upstream end to the piston pump 23 and at its downstream end to the water supply channel 16 of the washing machine 10 . The second detergent supply path 24 supplies detergent from the piston pump 23 to the water supply path 16 . A second check valve 26 is provided in the second detergent supply path 24 . The second check valve 26 allows the detergent to flow from the piston pump 23 side to the water supply passage 16 side and prohibits the detergent from flowing to the opposite side.

The piston pump 23 sucks detergent from the detergent tank 30 through the first detergent supply channel 22 and discharges the detergent into the water supply channel 16 through the second detergent supply channel 24 . The piston pump 23 sucks a preset weight of detergent from the detergent tank 30 and discharges it to the water supply path 16 . The detergent discharged to the water supply channel 16 joins the water flowing through the water supply channel 16 and is supplied into the washing tub 13 . In this manner, the detergent contained in the detergent tank 30 is automatically introduced into the washing tub 13 . In addition, in the washing machine 10 described above, the user may manually put the detergent into the washing tub 13 .

A tank detector 43 is fixed to the bottom of the removable container 21 of the automatic loading device 20 . The tank detector 43 is, for example, a weight sensor, and can detect the weight of the detergent tank 30 . The tank detector 43 detects the weight of the detergent tank 30 when the detergent tank 30 is attached to the automatic loading device 20 . Thus, the tank detector 43 can detect that the detergent tank 30 is attached to the automatic loading device 20 . Further, the tank detector 43 can detect that the detergent tank 30 has been removed from the automatic loading device 20 . Further, the tank detector 43 can detect the weight of the detergent contained in the detergent tank 30 . The tank detector 43 detects the weight of the detergent based on, for example, the difference between the detected weight when the detergent tank 30 contains detergent and the weight when the detergent tank 30 contains no detergent. be able to. The weight detected by the tank detector 43 is transmitted to the controller 41 .

As shown in FIG. 1 , the display unit 44 of the washing machine 10 is arranged on the upper part of the main body 11 . This display unit 44 is, for example, a liquid crystal panel. Various information about the washing machine 10 is displayed on the display unit 44 . Further, the display section 44 is configured integrally with the operation section 45 . The display unit 44 is, for example, a liquid crystal touch panel. Operation unit 45 accepts various operations related to washing machine 10 . A user of washing machine 10 performs various operations by operating operation unit 45 .

As shown in FIG. 5 , the operating section 45 has a first specific operating section 451 . The first specific operation unit 451 is configured to be able to select a standard amount of detergent. The standard amount of detergent indicates the standard weight of detergent required in the washing operation. As shown in FIG. 6, the standard amount of detergent is expressed as, for example, 10 g/30 L, 20 g/30 L, and the like. By operating the first specific operation unit 451, the user of the washing machine 10 can select an arbitrary standard amount from a plurality of standard amounts of detergent.

The recommended amount of detergent corresponds to the reference amount of detergent. When the user of washing machine 10 operates first specifying operation unit 451 to select the standard amount of detergent, the standard amount of detergent corresponding to the standard amount of detergent is specified. The reference amount of detergent indicates the weight that serves as a reference when specifying the weight of detergent used in one wash. The standard amount of detergent is expressed as, for example, 22 g, 44 g, and the like. For example, a standard amount of 10 g/30 L corresponds to a standard amount of 22 g, and a standard amount of 20 g/30 L corresponds to a standard amount of 44 g. The reference amount of detergent specified by the user's operation of the first specifying operation unit 451 is stored in the storage unit 42 .

In the washing machine 10 described above, the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount is set to one specific value in advance. The ratio of the detergent to the reference amount indicates the ratio to the reference amount when specifying the weight of the detergent used in one wash. The ratio of the detergent to the reference amount is stored in advance in the storage unit 42 . The ratio of detergent to the reference amount is, for example, 0.8. The ratio of the detergent to the reference amount is a parameter representing "more" or "less" than the reference amount. For example, 0.8 for the reference amount of detergent is more than 0.7 and less than 0.9 for the reference amount.

The control unit 41 of the washing machine 10 shown in FIG. 3 includes, for example, a CPU and memory. The control unit 41 can execute information processing based on a predetermined program stored in the memory, for example. The control unit 41 controls the amount of detergent used in one wash based on the reference amount (eg, 22 g) of detergent stored in the storage unit 42 and the ratio (eg, 0.8) to the reference amount. An amount (eg 18 g) can be specified (see Figure 6). The control unit 41 calculates the usage amount of the detergent by multiplying the reference amount of the detergent by the ratio. Amount of detergent used=standard amount of detergent×percentage. For example, 18 g of detergent used=22 g of standard amount of detergent×ratio 0.8. The calculated usage amount of the detergent is stored in the storage unit 42 .

Further, the control unit 41 is configured to be able to calculate the number of times the washing machine 10 can wash. The washable number of times is the number of times the washing operation can be performed using the detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 . The control unit 41 calculates the allowable number of washings based on the amount of detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 and the amount of detergent used in one wash. For example, if the amount of detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is 1000g and the amount of detergent used in one wash is 22g, the number of washings that can be performed is 56 times (1000g/22g). (see Figure 6).

Also, the control unit 41 controls various operations of the washing machine 10 . For example, the controller 41 controls the operation of the piston pump 23 of the automatic injection device 20 . The controller 41 controls the operation of the piston pump 23 so that a predetermined amount of detergent is automatically supplied from the detergent tank 30 to the washing tub 13 . The control unit 41 operates the piston pump 23 so that the piston pump 23 discharges the amount of detergent used (eg, 18 g) calculated based on the reference amount (eg, 22 g) and the ratio (eg, 0.8) of the detergent. to control. The piston pump 23 discharges the amount of detergent specified by the control unit 41 (for example, 18 g).

The washing machine 10 described above can perform a washing operation. The washing operation is an operation for washing the laundry accommodated in the drum 14 inside the washing tub 13 . The washing machine 10 washes laundry using the detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 .

(First embodiment)
Next, the allowable number of washing display process according to the first embodiment executed by the washing machine 10 will be described. FIG. 7 is a flow chart of the washable number display process. The allowable number of washing display process is started, for example, when the washing machine 10 is powered on. As shown in FIG. 7 , in S10 of the washable number display process, the control unit 41 recognizes the remaining amount of detergent contained in the detergent tank 30 . The remaining amount of detergent contained in detergent tank 30 is detected by tank detector 43 . The controller 41 recognizes the remaining amount of detergent contained in the detergent tank 30 based on the weight detected by the tank detector 43 . The remaining amount of detergent contained in detergent tank 30 is, for example, 1000 g (see FIG. 6).

In subsequent S11, the control unit 41 displays the initial screen on the display unit 44 (see FIG. 5). The initial screen is a screen for the user of washing machine 10 to select washing operation, washing/drying operation, or drying operation. In addition, in S11, the control unit 41 displays the number of washable times on the display unit 44. FIG. The control unit 41 displays the number of washable times on the display unit 44 before the current washing operation is started. In S11, the control unit 41 displays on the display unit 44 the number of washings that can be performed at the stage when the previous washing operation is completed. The number of washable times at the end of the previous washing operation is stored in the storage unit 42. - 特許庁The number of washable times at the end of the previous washing operation is the number of washable times displayed on the display unit 44 by the control unit 41 in the process of S21 described later in the previous washable number display process.

In subsequent S12, the control unit 41 determines whether or not the start button 80 has been pressed. When the start button 80 is pressed, a start signal is sent to the control section 41 . If the start button 80 has been pressed, the controller 41 determines YES in S12 and proceeds to S13. For example, when the user of the washing machine 10 presses the start button 80, it is determined as YES in S12. Otherwise, the controller 41 determines NO in S12 and waits.

In subsequent S13, the control unit 41 specifies the amount of detergent used in one wash. The control unit 41 specifies the amount of detergent to be used (eg, 18 g) based on the reference amount of detergent (eg, 22 g) stored in the storage unit 42 and the ratio to the reference amount (eg, 0.8). See Figure 6). The control unit 41 stores the specified usage amount of the detergent in the storage unit 42 . In S<b>13 , the control unit 41 may read out the amount of detergent used that has already been calculated and stored in the storage unit 42 . In subsequent S14, the control unit 41 displays the usage amount (for example, 18 g) of the detergent specified in S13 on the display unit 44 (see FIG. 5).

In subsequent S<b>15 , the control unit 41 operates the automatic loading device 20 to load the detergent into the washing tub 13 . The automatic injection device 20 automatically introduces the amount of detergent (for example, 18 g) specified by the controller 41 in S13 into the washing tub 13 . The automatic injection device 20 injects the detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 into the washing tub 13 . As the automatic loading device 20 loads the detergent into the washing tub 13, the remaining amount of detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is reduced.

In subsequent S<b>16 , the controller 41 recognizes the remaining amount of detergent contained in the detergent tank 30 . The remaining amount of detergent contained in detergent tank 30 is detected by tank detector 43 . The controller 41 recognizes the remaining amount of detergent contained in the detergent tank 30 based on the weight detected by the tank detector 43 . The remaining amount of detergent contained in the detergent tank 30 is reduced by the automatic injection device 20 injecting the detergent into the washing tub 13 (see S15). Therefore, the remaining amount of detergent recognized by the controller 41 in S16 is less than the remaining amount of detergent recognized by the controller 41 in S10. The remaining amount of detergent contained in detergent tank 30 is, for example, 982 g (1000 g-18 g).

In subsequent S17, the control unit 41 calculates the number of washable times. The control unit 41 calculates the number of washable times based on the remaining amount of detergent (eg, 982 g) recognized in S16 above and the amount of detergent used (eg, 18 g) specified in S13 above. The control unit 41 calculates the number of washable times by dividing the remaining amount of detergent by the amount of detergent used. Remaining amount of detergent/Amount of detergent used. For example, 55 washing times = 982 g of detergent remaining/18 g of detergent used. In subsequent S18, the control unit 41 displays the allowable number of times of washing (for example, 55 times) calculated in S17 on the display unit 44 (see FIG. 8). The control unit 41 stores in the storage unit 42 the number of washable times displayed on the display unit 44 in S18. Further, the control unit 41 does not display the allowable number of washings displayed on the display unit 44 at the timing when a predetermined time has passed since the allowable number of washings was displayed on the display unit 44 in S18. As a result, the display of the washable number of times disappears from the display section 44 .

In continuing S19, the control part 41 starts washing operation. The control unit 41 performs, for example, a water supply process, a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydration process in the washing operation. The laundry stored in the drum 14 is washed by executing the washing operation. The water supply process, washing process, rinsing process, and spin-drying process in the washing operation are well known, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. After all the steps of the washing operation are finished, the controller 41 finishes the washing operation in S20.

In subsequent S21, the control unit 41 displays the allowable number of washings on the display unit 44 again. The control unit 41 displays on the display unit 44 the same number of times of washing (for example, 55 times) that was displayed on the display unit 44 in S18 (see FIG. 8). The control unit 41 stores in the storage unit 42 the number of washable times displayed on the display unit 44 in S21. In addition, the control unit 41 does not display the allowable number of washings displayed on the display unit 44 at the timing when a predetermined time has passed after displaying the allowable number of washings on the display unit 44 in S21. As a result, the display of the washable number of times disappears from the display section 44 .

In subsequent S22, control unit 41 determines whether or not lid 12 of washing machine 10 is opened. The opening/closing of the lid 12 is detected by an open/close detector (not shown). If the lid 12 is opened, the controller 41 determines YES in S22 and proceeds to S23. Otherwise, the control unit 41 determines NO and waits. In subsequent S23, the control unit 41 turns off the power of the washing machine 10 after a predetermined period of time has passed since the determination of YES in S22. After that, the washable count display processing ends.

Note that the control unit 41 displays on the display unit 44 the allowable number of washings (for example, 55) displayed in S21 of the current allowable number of washing display process at S11 in the next allowable number of washing display process.

The washing machine 10 according to the embodiment has been described above. As is clear from the above description, the washing machine 10 according to the embodiment includes a washing tub 13 for storing laundry, an automatic loading device 20 for automatically loading detergent into the washing tub 13, and an automatic loading device 20. , a detergent tank 30 that stores detergent to be put into the washing tub 13 by the washing machine, a display section 44, and a control section 41. As shown in FIG. The control unit 41 controls the number of washings (for example, 1000 g) remaining in the detergent tank 30 and the amount of detergent used for one wash (for example, 18 g). For example, 56 times) is displayed on the display unit 44 (S18). According to this configuration, the allowable number of washings is displayed on the display unit 44 of the washing machine 10, so that the user of the washing machine 10 can easily recognize the allowable number of washings. Therefore, it is possible to easily know when to replenish the detergent tank 30 with detergent and when to purchase detergent.

The washing machine 10 described above also includes an operation unit 45 that receives a user's operation for specifying the reference amount of detergent (for example, 22 g). Based on the reference amount of detergent (for example, 22 g) specified by the user operation received by the operation unit 45 and the ratio (for example, 0.8) set in advance with respect to the reference amount, the control unit 41 The amount (for example, 18 g) of detergent used for one wash is specified (S13). According to this configuration, even when detergents with different reference amounts are used, it is possible to specify the usage amount of the detergent used in one wash according to the user's operation. The user of the washing machine 10 can select the reference amount of detergent according to the detergent to be used, and the appropriate number of washable times is displayed on the display unit 44 accordingly, thereby improving convenience for the user.

In addition, in the washing machine 10 described above, the control unit 41 displays the number of washable times on the display unit 44 before the washing operation is started (S11). According to this configuration, the user can recognize the allowable number of washings before the washing operation is started, thereby improving convenience for the user. In addition, when the detergent tank 30 is replenished with detergent before the washing operation is started, the number of washable times is displayed on the display unit 44, so that washing is possible immediately after the detergent tank 30 is replenished with detergent. The user can recognize the number of times.

Further, in the washing machine 10 described above, the control unit 41 displays the number of washable times on the display unit 44 after the detergent is automatically put into the washing tub 13 and before the washing operation is started (S15, S18, S19). ). According to this configuration, the user can recognize the latest number of washable times after the detergent is automatically put into the washing tub 13 . In addition, in the washing machine 10 described above, the control unit 41 displays the number of washable times on the display unit 44 after the washing operation is finished (S20, S21). The control unit 41 displays the same washable number of times on the display unit 44 in the processes of S18 and S21. According to this configuration, the user can recognize the latest number of washable times after the end of the washing operation.

Although one embodiment has been described above, specific aspects are not limited to the above embodiment. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those in the above description, and the description thereof is omitted.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment described above, the first specific operation unit 451 is configured to be able to select the recommended amount of detergent, and the user of the washing machine 10 operates the first specific operation unit 451 to operate the recommended amount of detergent (for example, 10 g/30 L), the standard amount of detergent (for example, 22 g) corresponding to the standard amount is specified (see FIGS. 5 and 6). Further, in the first embodiment, the ratio (for example, 0.8) to the standard amount of detergent was previously set to one specific value (see FIG. 6).

In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the first specific operation unit 451 is configured to be able to select the ratio of detergent to the reference amount. As shown in FIG. 10, the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount is, for example, 0.5, 0.6, or the like. By operating the first specific operation unit 451, the user of the washing machine 10 can select an arbitrary ratio (for example, 0.5) from a plurality of ratios. The storage unit 42 stores the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount specified by the user's operation of the first specifying operation unit 451 . The ratio of the detergent to the reference amount is a parameter representing "more" or "less" than the reference amount. For example, 0.5 for the reference amount of detergent is more than 0.4 for the reference amount and less than 0.6 for the reference amount. As shown in FIG. 9, the ratio (eg, 0.5) selected by the user of washing machine 10 by operating first specific operation unit 451 is displayed on indicator 453, for example. The user of washing machine 10 can select a preferred percentage. Further, for example, the user of washing machine 10 may select a ratio (for example, 0.5) to the reference amount of detergent by operating plus button 454 and minus button 455 .

In addition, in the second embodiment, the reference amount of detergent is set to one specific value in advance. A standard amount of detergent is, for example, 44 g. The reference amount of detergent is stored in the storage unit 42 in advance.

The control unit 41 of the washing machine 10 is used in one wash based on the reference amount (eg, 44 g) of detergent stored in the storage unit 42 and the ratio to the reference amount (eg, 0.5). The amount of detergent to be used (eg 22g) can be specified (see Figure 10). The control unit 41 calculates the usage amount of the detergent by multiplying the reference amount of the detergent by the ratio. For example, the amount of detergent used is 22 g=the standard amount of detergent is 44 g×the ratio of 0.5. The calculated usage amount of the detergent is stored in the storage unit 42 .

In addition, in S17 of the washable number of times display process (see FIG. 7), the control unit 41 determines the amount of detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 (eg, 1000 g) and the amount of detergent used (eg, 22 g). The number of washable times (for example, 45 times) is calculated based on. The control unit 41 calculates the number of washable times by dividing the remaining amount of detergent by the amount of detergent used. For example, 45 washable times = 1000 g of remaining detergent / 22 g of used detergent. In subsequent S18, the control unit 41 displays the number of washable times (for example, 45 times) calculated in S17 on the display unit 44 (see FIG. 10).

The second embodiment has been described above. As is clear from the above description, the washing machine 10 includes an operation unit 45 that receives a user operation for specifying a ratio (eg, 0.5) to a preset reference amount (eg, 44 g) of detergent. I have. The control unit 41 uses the ratio (for example, 0.5) specified by the user operation received by the operation unit 45 and the preset reference amount (for example, 44 g) of the detergent used in one wash. The amount of detergent to be used (for example, 22 g) is specified (S13). According to this configuration, the user of the washing machine 10 can select the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount according to the situation, and the display unit 44 displays an appropriate number of washable times accordingly, which is convenient for the user. improve sexuality. For example, if the user thinks that the weight of the laundry contained in the washing tub 13 is large, the user can select a large percentage. Also, if the user prefers a larger amount of detergent, the user can select a larger percentage, and if a smaller amount of detergent is desired, the user can select a smaller percentage. According to this configuration, the display unit 44 displays the number of washable times according to the user's preferred amount of detergent, thereby improving convenience for the user. Also, by maintaining a user-selected ratio (eg, 0.5) in the daily wash, the user's preferred amount of detergent can be reflected in the daily wash. The display unit 44 can display the number of washable times according to the amount of detergent preferred by the user in daily washing.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment described above, the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount (for example, 0.8) was previously set to one specific value (see FIG. 6). Further, in the above-described second embodiment, the standard amount of detergent (for example, 44 g) was previously set to one specific value. In the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the operating section 45 includes a first specific operating section 451 and a second specific operating section 452. As shown in FIG.

The first specific operation unit 451 is configured to be able to select a standard amount of detergent. As shown in FIG. 12, the standard amount of detergent is expressed as, for example, 10 g/30 L, 20 g/30 L, and the like. By operating the first specific operation unit 451, the user of the washing machine 10 can select an arbitrary standard amount from a plurality of standard amounts of detergent.

The recommended amount of detergent corresponds to the reference amount of detergent. When the user of washing machine 10 operates first specifying operation unit 451 to select the standard amount of detergent, the standard amount of detergent corresponding to the standard amount of detergent is specified. The standard amount of detergent is expressed as, for example, 22 g, 44 g, and the like. For example, a standard amount of 10 g/30 L corresponds to a standard amount of 22 g, and a standard amount of 20 g/30 L corresponds to a standard amount of 44 g. The reference amount of detergent specified by the user's operation of the first specifying operation unit 451 is stored in the storage unit 42 .

As shown in FIG. 11, the second specific operation unit 452 is configured to be able to select the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount. As shown in FIG. 12, the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount is, for example, 0.5, 0.6, or the like. By operating the second specific operation unit 452, the user of the washing machine 10 can select an arbitrary ratio (for example, 0.5) from a plurality of ratios. The storage unit 42 stores the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount specified by the user's operation of the second specifying operation unit 452 .

The control unit 41 of the washing machine 10 determines the amount of detergent used in one wash (for example, 44 g) based on the specified reference amount of detergent (for example, 44 g) and the ratio to the reference amount (for example, 0.5). 22g) can be identified (see FIG. 12). The control unit 41 calculates the usage amount of the detergent by multiplying the reference amount of the detergent by the ratio. For example, the amount of detergent used is 22 g=the standard amount of detergent is 44 g×the ratio of 0.5. The calculated usage amount of the detergent is stored in the storage unit 42 .

In addition, in S17 of the washable number of times display process (see FIG. 7), the control unit 41 determines the amount of detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 (eg, 1000 g) and the amount of detergent used (eg, 22 g). The allowable number of times of washing (for example, 45 times) is calculated based on (see FIG. 12). The control unit 41 calculates the number of washable times by dividing the remaining amount of detergent by the amount of detergent used. For example, 45 washable times = 1000 g of remaining detergent / 22 g of used detergent. In FIG. 12, the amount of detergent used and the number of washable times are displayed in the same cell. For example, if the standard amount of detergent is 44 g and the ratio of detergent to the standard amount is 0.5, (the amount of detergent used, the number of washings allowed)=(22 g, 45 times). In S18 subsequent to S17 of the washable number display process, the control unit 41 displays the washable number of times (for example, 45 times) calculated in S17 on the display unit 44 (see FIG. 11).

The third embodiment has been described above. As is clear from the above description, the washing machine 10 described above includes a user operation for specifying the standard amount of detergent (for example, 44 g) and a ratio of the detergent to the standard amount (for example, 0.5). An operation unit 45 for receiving user operations is provided. The control unit 41 controls the amount of detergent specified by the user operation accepted by the operation unit 45 (for example, 44 g) based on the ratio specified by the user operation accepted by the operation unit 45 (for example, 0.8). , the amount of detergent (for example, 22 g) used in one wash is specified (S13). According to this configuration, the user of the washing machine 10 can select the standard amount of detergent and its ratio, and the appropriate number of washings is displayed according to the user's selection, thereby improving convenience for the user. do.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment described above, the first specific operation unit 451 is configured to be able to select the standard amount of detergent. In the fourth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the first specifying operation section 451 is configured to be able to select the brand of detergent. Detergent brands are, for example, A, B, and the like. The user of washing machine 10 can select an arbitrary brand from a plurality of detergent brands by operating first specific operation unit 451 .

The detergent brand corresponds to the recommended amount and standard amount of detergent (see FIG. 14). When the user of washing machine 10 operates first specifying operation unit 451 to select a brand of detergent, the standard amount and standard amount of detergent corresponding to the brand of detergent are specified. For example, A brand corresponds to a reference amount of 22 g, and B brand corresponds to a reference amount of 44 g. The reference amount of detergent specified by the user's operation of the first specifying operation unit 451 is stored in the storage unit 42 . Other processes of the fourth embodiment are the same as those of the third embodiment, so detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Further, in the first embodiment described above, the first specific operation unit 451 is configured to be able to select the standard amount of detergent, as in the third embodiment. In a modified example of the first embodiment, the first specifying operation unit 451 may be configured so as to be able to select the brand of detergent, similarly to the fourth embodiment.

The fourth embodiment has been described above. As is clear from the above description, the washing machine 10 includes a user operation for specifying the brand of detergent (for example, B) corresponding to the standard amount of detergent (for example, 44 g) and the ratio of the detergent to the standard amount (for example, B). For example, an operation unit 45 for accepting a user operation for specifying 0.5) is provided. The control unit 41 sets the reference amount (for example, 44 g) of the detergent corresponding to the detergent brand (for example, B) specified by the user operation received by the operation unit 45 and the ratio specified by the user operation received by the operation unit 45. (eg, 0.5), the amount of detergent used in one wash (eg, 22 g) is specified (S13). According to this configuration, the user of the washing machine 10 can specify the reference amount of detergent only by selecting the brand of detergent, so that the burden on the user when specifying the reference amount of detergent can be reduced. User convenience is improved.

(Fifth embodiment)
Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, washing machine 10 includes weight detector 46 . The weight detector 46 is arranged inside the main body 11 . The weight detector 46 can detect the weight of the laundry contained in the drum 14 inside the washing tub 13 . For example, the weight detector 46 can detect the weight of the laundry by detecting a change in the rotation load of the motor 15 while the laundry is contained in the drum 14 . The weight detection unit 46 can detect the weight of laundry on the order of 1 kg, for example. As shown in FIG. 15, the weight detected by the weight detector 46 is, for example, 1 kg, 2 kg, or the like. Information on the weight detected by the weight detector 46 is transmitted to the controller 41 .

The weight of the laundry corresponds to the percentage of the reference amount of detergent. For example, a weight of 1 kg corresponds to a ratio of 0.5 and a weight of 2 kg corresponds to a ratio of 0.6. A ratio corresponding to the weight of the laundry is specified by detecting the weight of the laundry by the weight detection unit 46 . The relationship between the weight of the laundry and the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount is set in advance and stored in the storage unit 42 .

In the washing machine 10 according to the fifth embodiment, the reference amount of detergent is set to one specific value in advance. A standard amount of detergent is, for example, 44 g. The reference amount of detergent is stored in the storage unit 42 in advance.

Next, the washable number display process according to the fifth embodiment executed by the washing machine 10 will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the washable count display process. In the fifth embodiment, the process of S50 is executed after the process of S12 of the washable count display process. In S<b>50 , the weight detector 46 detects the weight of the laundry contained in the drum 14 inside the washing tub 13 . Information on the weight (for example, 1 kg) detected by the weight detection unit 46 is transmitted to the control unit 41 .

In subsequent S51, the control unit 41 specifies the ratio (eg, 0.5) of the detergent to the reference amount based on the weight (eg, 1 kg) detected by the weight detection unit 46 (see FIG. 15). The control unit 41 specifies the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount based on the preset relationship between the weight of the laundry and the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount shown in FIG.

In subsequent S13, the control unit 41 specifies the amount of detergent used in one wash. The control unit 41 determines the amount of detergent used based on the reference amount of detergent (eg, 44 g) stored in the storage unit 42 and the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount (eg, 0.5) specified in S51. (eg 22g). The control unit 41 stores the specified usage amount of the detergent in the storage unit 42 . In subsequent S14, the control unit 41 displays the usage amount (for example, 22 g) of the detergent specified in S13 on the display unit 44 (see FIG. 17). The processing after S15 in the fifth embodiment has been explained in each of the above embodiments, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

The fifth embodiment has been described above. As is clear from the above description, the washing machine 10 includes a weight detection section 46 that detects the weight of laundry accommodated in the washing tub 13 . Based on the weight of the laundry detected by the weight detection unit 46, the control unit 41 specifies the ratio (for example, 0.5) of the detergent to the preset reference amount. The control unit 41 specifies the usage amount (eg, 22 g) of the detergent to be used for one wash based on the specified ratio and the preset reference amount (eg, 44 g) of the detergent (S13). . According to this configuration, it is possible to specify the amount of detergent to be used according to the weight of the laundry accommodated in the washing tub 13, and the appropriate number of washable times according to the weight of the laundry can be displayed on the display section 44. can be displayed.

In addition, in the washing machine 10 described above, the control unit 41 displays the same washable number of times on the display unit 44 after the weight detection unit 46 detects the weight of the laundry and after the washing operation ends (S18, S21). . According to this configuration, the user of the washing machine 10 can easily recognize the number of washings that can be performed, and the user's convenience is improved. The point that the control unit 41 displays the same washable number of times on the display unit 44 in S18 and S21 has been described in the first embodiment.

(Other examples)
(1) In another embodiment, the controller 41 may count the number of uses of the amount of detergent used. For example, when the washing operation is performed five times when the amount of detergent used is 22 g, the control unit 41 counts the five times. Further, when the washing operation is performed 10 times when the amount of detergent used is 18 g, the control unit 41 counts the 10 times. Further, as shown in FIG. 18 , the control unit 41 may display the usage amount of the detergent that is used most frequently on the display unit 44 . For example, if the number of times the washing operation is performed when the amount of detergent used is 18 g (for example, 10 times) is the largest compared to the other amounts used, the control unit 41 determines the number of times (for example, 10 times). It is displayed on the display unit 44 . Further, the control unit 41 may display a screen 81 on the display unit 44 to prompt a user to review the amount of detergent used. For example, the control unit 41 displays a screen 81 such as "The amount of detergent used needs to be reviewed" on the display unit 44 . The user of the washing machine 10 can review the amount of detergent used by pressing the frequency setting button 82 .

(2) In another embodiment, the control unit 41 may calculate the allowable number of washings based on the amount of detergent used most frequently. For example, if the number of times (for example, 10 times) that the washing operation is performed when the amount of detergent used is 18 g is the largest compared to other amounts, the control unit 41 performs washing based on the amount of detergent used of 18 g. Calculate the possible number of times.

(3) In another embodiment, the user of the washing machine 10 can select the ratio of the detergent to the reference amount (parameter for "more" or "less") than in the above-described fifth embodiment ( (see the second embodiment) may be further added.

(4) In the above embodiment, the drum-type washing machine 10 was used, but in another embodiment, the vertical washing machine 10 may be used.

(5) In the above embodiment, the configuration related to the detergent tank 30 has been described, but the same configuration as the detergent tank 30 may be applied to the softener tank 50 .

Although specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail above, these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and changes of the specific examples illustrated above. The technical elements described in this specification or in the drawings exhibit technical usefulness alone or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims as of the filing. In addition, the techniques exemplified in this specification or drawings can simultaneously achieve a plurality of purposes, and achieving one of them has technical utility in itself.

10: washing machine, 11: main body, 12: lid, 13: washing tub, 14: drum, 15: motor, 16: water supply channel, 17: drainage channel, 18: water supply valve, 19: drainage valve, 20: automatic input Apparatus, 21: Detachable container, 22: First detergent supply path, 23: Piston pump, 24: Second detergent supply path, 25: First check valve, 26: Second check valve, 28: Lid, 29: Open/close detection unit 30: detergent tank 31: inlet 32: outlet 39: scale 41: control unit 42: storage unit 43: tank detection unit 44: display unit 45: operation unit 46 : Weight detection unit 50: Softener tank 80: Start button 81: Screen 82: Number setting button 111: Opening 211: Opening 451: First specific operation unit 452: Second specific operation Department

Claims (5)

a washing tub for storing laundry;
an automatic injection device for automatically injecting a laundry treatment agent into the washing tub;
a treatment agent tank for containing the laundry treatment agent introduced into the washing tub by the automatic injection device;
a display unit;
an operation unit that receives a user operation for specifying the reference amount of the laundry treatment agent;
a control unit and
The control unit
The amount of the laundry treatment agent used in one wash, based on the reference amount of the laundry treatment agent specified by the user's operation received by the operation unit and the ratio set in advance with respect to the reference amount. identify the
A washing machine for displaying, on the display unit, the number of washings that can be performed based on the amount of laundry processing agent contained in the processing agent tank and the amount of laundry processing agent used in one wash. a washing tub for storing laundry;
an automatic injection device for automatically injecting a laundry treatment agent into the washing tub;
a treatment agent tank for containing the laundry treatment agent introduced into the washing tub by the automatic injection device;
a display unit;
an operation unit that receives a user operation for specifying the brand of the laundry treatment agent corresponding to the reference amount of the laundry treatment agent and a user operation for specifying the ratio of the laundry treatment agent to the reference amount;
a control unit and
The control unit
One washing based on the reference amount of the laundry treatment agent corresponding to the brand of the laundry treatment agent specified by the user operation received by the operation unit and the ratio specified by the user operation received by the operation unit Identify the amount of laundry treatment used in
A washing machine for displaying, on the display unit, the number of washings that can be performed based on the amount of laundry processing agent contained in the processing agent tank and the amount of laundry processing agent used in one wash. 3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein said control unit displays the number of possible washings on said display unit before starting washing. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the control unit calculates the number of washings possible based on the amount of the laundry processing agent used in one wash, which is used most frequently. . 5. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein said treatment agent tank is provided with a scale for measuring the amount of laundry treatment agent contained in said treatment agent tank.

Images