CN116113735A - Washing machine - Google Patents

Washing machine Download PDF

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Publication number
CN116113735A
CN116113735A CN202180058378.5A CN202180058378A CN116113735A CN 116113735 A CN116113735 A CN 116113735A CN 202180058378 A CN202180058378 A CN 202180058378A CN 116113735 A CN116113735 A CN 116113735A
Authority
CN
China
Prior art keywords
washing
detergent
liquid level
water
softener
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
CN202180058378.5A
Other languages
Chinese (zh)
Inventor
大槻太郎
荒井英行
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Qingdao Haier Washing Machine Co Ltd
Haier Smart Home Co Ltd
Aqua Co Ltd
Original Assignee
Qingdao Haier Washing Machine Co Ltd
Haier Smart Home Co Ltd
Aqua Co Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Qingdao Haier Washing Machine Co Ltd, Haier Smart Home Co Ltd, Aqua Co Ltd filed Critical Qingdao Haier Washing Machine Co Ltd
Publication of CN116113735A publication Critical patent/CN116113735A/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F33/00—Control of operations performed in washing machines or washer-dryers 
    • D06F33/30—Control of washing machines characterised by the purpose or target of the control 
    • D06F33/32—Control of operational steps, e.g. optimisation or improvement of operational steps depending on the condition of the laundry
    • D06F33/37—Control of operational steps, e.g. optimisation or improvement of operational steps depending on the condition of the laundry of metering of detergents or additives
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F34/00—Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F34/14—Arrangements for detecting or measuring specific parameters
    • D06F34/22—Condition of the washing liquid, e.g. turbidity
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F39/00—Details of washing machines not specific to a single type of machines covered by groups D06F9/00 - D06F27/00 
    • D06F39/02—Devices for adding soap or other washing agents

Abstract

A washing machine is provided with: a washing dewatering barrel which is arranged in the box body and used for washing the washed objects; a detergent box (400) for storing liquid detergent; a water supply unit for throwing the detergent in the detergent box (400) into the washing and dehydrating barrel; a pair of electrode terminals (421, 422) disposed in the detergent case (400); a control unit that determines whether or not the liquid level in the detergent box (400) is lower than a predetermined liquid level (L1) based on a change in resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals (421, 422); and a display unit. The control unit conducts current between the pair of electrode terminals (421, 422) for a predetermined time period based on the arrival of a predetermined detection time, and causes the display unit to notify that the replenishment of the detergent is required based on the satisfaction of a replenishment condition including the liquid level in the detergent box (400) being lower than a predetermined liquid level (L1).

Description

Washing machine Technical Field
The present invention relates to a washing machine.
Background
For example, patent document 1 describes a washing machine capable of automatically charging a liquid detergent into a washing and dehydrating tub.
The washing machine of patent document 1 has a detergent box provided in a casing and accommodating a liquid detergent. The detergent box is closed inside by closing a supplementary inlet for supplementary detergent by a detergent box cover, and has an air inflow port and a liquid discharge port. The air inflow port is connected to an air pump. When the air pump works, the air pressure in the sealed detergent box is increased, and the detergent in the detergent box is extruded from the liquid outlet and put into the washing and dehydrating barrel. The user does not need to throw one amount of detergent into the washing machine during each washing operation, which is convenient.
When the remaining amount of the detergent in the detergent box becomes small, it is necessary to replenish the detergent in the detergent box. Therefore, the following structure can be considered: by detecting the liquid level in the detergent box, the need of replenishing the detergent is informed at the moment when the residual amount of the detergent in the detergent box is reduced.
In this case, as a structure for detecting that the amount of the residual liquid in the detergent box is small, the following structure may be adopted: a pair of electrode terminals are disposed in the detergent case, and a conduction state is detected by applying current between the pair of electrode terminals. When the amount of residual liquid in the detergent box is reduced and the detergent is not interposed between the pair of electrode terminals, the pair of electrode terminals are not energized by the detergent.
However, in the above-described structure, when electricity is supplied between a pair of electrode terminals immersed in a liquid, there is a concern that the pair of electrode terminals may be corroded by electricity.
Prior art literature
Patent literature
Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open No. 2001-259290
Disclosure of Invention
Problems to be solved by the invention
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a washing machine that uses a pair of electrode terminals and is capable of detecting the remaining amount of liquid formulation in a casing while suppressing electrolytic corrosion of the pair of electrode terminals.
Solution for solving the problem
The washing machine according to the main aspect of the present invention comprises: a washing barrel configured in the box body for washing the washed objects; a case for storing a liquid for washing; an input mechanism part for inputting the liquid agent in the box body into the washing barrel; a pair of electrode terminals disposed in the case; a control unit that determines whether or not the liquid level in the case is lower than a predetermined liquid level, based on a change in resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals; and a notification unit. Wherein the control unit is configured to supply current to the pair of electrode terminals for a predetermined time period based on the arrival of a predetermined detection time, and to notify the notification unit of the need to replenish the liquid agent based on satisfaction of a replenishment condition including the liquid level in the case being lower than the predetermined liquid level.
According to the above configuration, the remaining amount of the liquid formulation in the cartridge is detected using the pair of electrode terminals, and when the remaining amount becomes smaller, the user is notified that the liquid formulation is required to be replenished. Thus, the user can replenish the liquid formulation when the liquid formulation in the cartridge becomes small.
Further, since the current is supplied between the pair of electrode terminals for a predetermined time period based on the arrival of the predetermined detection time, the current is prevented from being supplied between the pair of electrode terminals for a long period of time, and the electrolytic corrosion of the pair of electrode terminals can be suppressed.
In the washing machine of the present aspect, the detection timing may include at least one of a timing at which a power supply is turned on to the washing machine, a timing at which an operation for confirming a remaining amount of the liquid agent is performed, and a timing at which a washing operation is completed.
According to the above configuration, when the notification is made by the notification portion at the time of turning on the power to the washing machine, at the time of performing the operation for confirming the remaining amount of the liquid agent, and at the time of completion of the washing operation, the user is likely to be present in the vicinity of the washing machine, and thus the notification is easily noticed. Therefore, by conducting electricity between the pair of electrode terminals at least one of these times, the electricity can be conducted efficiently without wasteful electricity, the electricity conducting time can be shortened, and the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion to the pair of electrode terminals can be suppressed.
In the washing machine of the present embodiment, the following structure may be adopted: the control unit starts to accumulate the usage amount of the liquid agent per washing operation or the number of times of the washing operation based on the liquid level in the case becoming lower than the predetermined liquid level. In this case, the replenishment condition is satisfied when the liquid level in the case is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the integrated value of the usage amount or the operation number exceeds a predetermined threshold.
According to the above configuration, the notification unit notifies the user when the remaining amount of the liquid formulation becomes smaller than the remaining amount when the liquid level in the cartridge is lower than the predetermined liquid level, and therefore, the interval for replenishing the liquid formulation can be prolonged, and the trouble of the user can be reduced.
In the washing machine of the present aspect, the liquid agent in the casing may include a liquid detergent. The washing machine may further include an ultrasonic cleaning device including a water tank for storing water containing the detergent supplied from the supply mechanism, and the washing machine may be configured to clean the laundry by applying ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic generator to the laundry immersed in the water tank. In this case, the detection timing includes timing at which the washing operation is completed and timing at which the washing operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device is completed.
According to the above configuration, the cleaning operation performed by the ultrasonic cleaning device can remove a part of dirt and the like of the laundry before the cleaning. Further, when the notification unit notifies the time of completion of the washing operation and the time of completion of the washing operation by the ultrasonic washing apparatus, the user is likely to be present near the washing machine, and thus the notification is easily noticed. Therefore, in the case of the ultrasonic cleaning device, by conducting electricity between the pair of electrode terminals at such a timing, the electricity can be conducted efficiently without wasteful consumption, and the electricity conducting time can be shortened, and the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion to the pair of electrode terminals can be suppressed.
In the case of adopting the above-described structure, further, the following structure may be adopted: the control unit starts to accumulate the usage amount of the detergent per washing operation and per washing operation or the number of times of the washing operation and the washing operation based on the liquid level in the case becoming lower than the predetermined liquid level. In this case, the replenishment condition is satisfied when the liquid level in the case is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the integrated value of the usage amount or the operation number exceeds a predetermined threshold.
With this configuration, the notification unit notifies the user when the remaining amount of the liquid formulation becomes smaller than the remaining amount when the liquid level in the cartridge is lower than the predetermined liquid level. Further, since the amount of detergent used or the number of operations in the washing operation and the amount of detergent used or the number of operations in the washing operation by the ultrasonic washing apparatus are accumulated, the amount of detergent used or the number of operations can be accurately obtained.
Effects of the invention
According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine that uses a pair of electrode terminals and can detect the remaining amount of liquid formulation in a casing while suppressing electrolytic corrosion of the pair of electrode terminals.
The effects and meaning of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of the embodiments. However, the following embodiment is merely an example of the implementation of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the contents described in the following embodiment.
Drawings
Fig. 1 is a side sectional view of a full automatic washing machine of an embodiment.
Fig. 2 (a) is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device and the upper panel in a state in which the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the water storage unit are housed in the housing unit according to the embodiment. Fig. 2 (b) and (c) are perspective views of the main parts of the ultrasonic cleaning device and the upper panel in a state in which the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the water storage unit are pulled out from the storage unit according to the embodiment.
Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device in a state in which the water storage unit is detached from the main body unit according to the embodiment.
Fig. 4 is a side sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning section and the main body section of the embodiment.
Fig. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the water supply device according to the embodiment.
Fig. 6 (a) and (b) are top and bottom views, respectively, of the detergent box of the embodiment, and fig. 6 (c) is A-A' cross-sectional view of fig. 6 (a).
Fig. 7 (a) and (B) are top and bottom views, respectively, of the softener case of the embodiment, and fig. 7 (c) is a B-B' cross-sectional view of fig. 7 (a).
Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing the structure of the full-automatic washing machine according to the embodiment.
Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing a control process for the liquid agent replenishment notification function according to the embodiment.
Fig. 10 (a) and (b) are flowcharts showing a first replenishment notification process and a second replenishment notification process included in the control process for the liquid agent replenishment notification function according to the embodiment, respectively.
Description of the reference numerals
1: full automatic washing machine (washing machine); 10: a case; 22: washing dehydration barrel (washing barrel); 50: an ultrasonic cleaning device; 80: a water supply device; 110: an ultrasonic wave generator; 210: a water storage bucket; 400: detergent box (box body); 421. 422: a pair of electrode terminals; 500: softener box (box body); 521. 522: a pair of electrode terminals; 600: a water supply unit (input mechanism part); 720: a display unit (notification unit); 801: and a control unit.
Detailed Description
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the washing machine of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Fig. 1 is a side sectional view of a fully automatic washing machine 1.
Referring to fig. 1, a fully automatic washing machine 1 includes a casing 10 that forms an outer contour. The case 10 includes a square tubular body portion 11 having an upper and lower surface open, an upper panel 12 covering the upper surface of the body portion 11, and a footstand 13 supporting the body portion 11. An inlet 14 for laundry is formed in the upper panel 12. The inlet 14 is covered with a freely openable and closable upper cover 15. A control unit 16 is disposed inside the front portion of the upper panel 12. The control unit 16 controls a washing operation performed by the fully automatic washing machine 1 and a washing operation performed by the ultrasonic washing device 50.
The tub 20 having an open upper surface is elastically suspended and supported in the cabinet 10 by four hanging bars 21 having vibration-proof devices. A washing and dehydrating tub 22 having an open upper surface is disposed in the outer tub 20. The washing and dehydrating tub 22 rotates around a rotation axis extending in the vertical direction. A plurality of dehydration holes 22a are formed throughout the entire circumference on the inner circumferential surface of the washing and dehydrating tub 22. A balance ring 23 is provided at an upper portion of the washing and dehydrating tub 22. A pulsator 24 is disposed at the bottom of the washing and dehydrating tub 22. A plurality of blades 24a are radially provided on the surface of the pulsator 24. The washing and dehydrating tub 22 corresponds to a "washing tub" of the present invention.
A driving unit 30 for generating torque for driving the washing and dehydrating tub 22 and the pulsator 24 is disposed at an outer bottom of the outer tub 20. The drive unit 30 includes a drive motor 31 and a transmission mechanism portion 32. The transmission mechanism 32 has a clutch mechanism 32a, and transmits the torque of the drive motor 31 to only the pulsator 24 to rotate only the pulsator 24 during the washing and rinsing processes, and transmits the torque of the drive motor 31 to the pulsator 24 and the washing and dehydrating tub 22 to integrally rotate the pulsator 24 and the washing and dehydrating tub 22 during the dehydrating process, by the switching operation performed by the clutch mechanism 32 a.
A drain port 20a is formed at an outer bottom of the outer tub 20. A drain valve 40 is provided in the drain port 20a. The drain valve 40 is connected to a drain hose 41. When the drain valve 40 is opened, the water stored in the wash water and dehydrating tub 22 and the outer tub 20 is discharged to the outside through the drain hose 41.
An overflow 20b is formed at an upper portion of the outer tub 20. When water above a predetermined overflow level is stored in the outer tub 20, water is discharged from the overflow port 20b. An overflow receiving portion 25 is provided on the outer surface of the outer tub 20 so as to cover the overflow port 20b. An overflow pipe 26 is connected to the bottom of the overflow receiving portion 25. The other end of the overflow pipe 26 is connected to a drain hose 41. The water discharged from the overflow 20b is received by the overflow receiving portion 25 and then flows to the drain hose 41 through the overflow pipe 26.
An ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is disposed at a substantially center of the rear portion of the upper panel 12. The ultrasonic cleaning apparatus 50 mainly performs a cleaning operation for removing dirt locally adhering to the object to be cleaned before the washing operation of the fully automatic washing machine 1.
A storage tank 60 is disposed behind the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 at the rear of the upper panel 12, and a drain receiving unit 70 is disposed below the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. The storage tank 60 stores water containing a detergent to be supplied to the water storage tub 210 of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 as cleaning water. The storage tank 60 is provided with a supply valve 61 for opening and closing an outflow port of the washing water from the tank.
The drain receiving portion 70 receives water drained from the water storage tub 210. The drain receiving portion 70 has a drain hole 71 for discharging the received water. One end of a drain pipe 72 is connected to the drain hole 71. The other end of the drain pipe 72 is connected to the upper portion of the overflow pipe 26. The water received by the drain receiving portion 70 is discharged to the drain hose 41 through the drain pipe 72 and the overflow pipe 26.
A water supply device 80 is disposed at the rear of the upper panel 12 so as to surround the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. The water supply device 80 is connected to a faucet, and has a function of supplying water into the washing and dehydrating tub 22. The water supply device 80 also functions as an automatic input device for automatically inputting the liquid detergent and the softener into the washing and dehydrating tub 22. The water supply device 80 further has a function of supplying the cleaning water to the storage tank 60. The detergent and softener are liquid agents for washing, and hereinafter, the detergent and softener may be collectively referred to as "liquid agent".
Fig. 2 (a) is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 and the upper panel 12 in a state where the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are housed in the housing unit 17. Fig. 2 (b) and (c) are perspective views of the main parts of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 and the upper panel 12 in a state where the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are pulled out from the storage unit 17. In fig. 2 (c), the cover 17b is omitted in order to see the inside of the housing 17.
The upper panel 12 is provided with a housing 17 for housing the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 at a central portion of the rear portion. The front of the housing 17 in the upper panel 12 is opened as an entrance 17 a. A cover 17b is provided at the inlet/outlet 17 a.
The ultrasonic cleaning device 50 includes an ultrasonic cleaning section 100, a water storage section 200, and a main body section 300. The ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 includes an ultrasonic generator that generates ultrasonic waves. The water storage portion 200 is provided with a water storage tub 210 which is located below the ultrasonic generator and stores washing water. The water tank 210 is supplied with washing water from a supply nozzle 62 connected to a supply valve 61 of the sump 60.
As shown in fig. 2 (a), during the cleaning operation, the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is pulled forward from the housing 17 and protrudes toward the inside of the inlet 14 of the upper panel 12. On the other hand, as shown in fig. 2 (b) and (c), when the cleaning operation is not performed, the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is stored in the storage unit 17. The inlet/outlet 17a of the housing 17 is closed by a cover 17b.
As shown in fig. 2 (a), the upper panel 12 has a funnel-shaped detergent injection port 18 formed at the rear left side of the inlet 14, and a funnel-shaped softener injection port 19 formed at the rear right side of the inlet 14. An opening 18a formed in the center of the detergent inlet 18 is connected to an inlet of a detergent box 400 described later. Filter 410 is attached to the inlet through opening 18 a. The opening 19a formed in the center of the softener inlet 19 is connected to an inlet of a softener cartridge 500 described later. The filter 510 is attached to the inlet through the opening 19 a. The liquid detergent is introduced into the detergent box 400 through the detergent injection port 18, and the liquid softener is introduced into the softener box 500 through the softener injection port 19.
Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 in a state in which the water storage unit 200 is detached from the main body 300. Fig. 4 is a side sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning section 100 and the main body section 300.
The ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is held by the main body 300, and the water storage unit 200 is detachably attached to the main body 300.
The ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 includes an ultrasonic generator 110 and a housing 120. The ultrasonic wave generator 110 includes an ultrasonic vibrator 111 and a vibration horn 112 coupled to the ultrasonic vibrator 111. The ultrasonic wave generator 110 generates ultrasonic waves from the tip of the vibration horn 112 by high-frequency vibration of the ultrasonic vibrator 111. The housing 120 has an arm shape that is long in the front-rear direction and has a tip end 121 that flexes downward. An ultrasonic wave generator 110 is disposed at the front inside the housing 120. The tip end portion of the vibration horn 112 is exposed from the opening 122 of the housing 120. The rear portion 123 of the housing 120 is fixed to an upper portion of the body portion 300.
A handle 201 is formed on the front surface of the water storage portion 200. Further, a water tank 210 having a shape conforming to the shape of the water storage section 200 is formed in the water storage section 200. A drain port 211 is formed at a lower portion of the rear surface of the water storage tub 210. The drain port 211 is blocked by the valve body 220. A valve movable member 230 is coupled to the valve body 220. The rear portion 231 of the valve movable member 230 protrudes rearward of the water storage portion 200. The valve movable member 230 is biased rearward of the closing of the valve body 220 by a spring, not shown.
When the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is pulled out from the housing 17, the drain port 211 is closed by the valve body 220. When the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is stored in the storage unit 17, the valve movable member 230 is brought into contact with the rear wall of the drain receiving unit 70, and moves forward. Thereby, the valve body 220 moves forward, and the drain port 211 opens. When the drain port 211 is opened, the washing water in the water storage tub 210 is drained to the drain receiving portion 70.
Fig. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the structure of the water supply device 80. Fig. 6 (a) and (b) are top and bottom views, respectively, of the detergent box 400, and fig. 6 (c) is A-A' cross-sectional view of fig. 6 (a). Fig. 7 (a) and (B) are top and bottom views, respectively, of the softener box 500, and fig. 7 (c) is a B-B' cross-sectional view of fig. 7 (a).
As shown in fig. 5, the water supply device 80 includes a detergent box 400, a softener box 500, and a water supply unit 600.
The detergent box 400 stores therein a liquid detergent. The softener box 500 stores therein a liquid softener. The water supply unit 600 intakes the detergent and the softener from the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500, respectively, and causes the taken-in detergent and softener to flow into the wash water dehydration tub 22 by supplying water to the wash water dehydration tub 22. In this manner, the water supply unit 600 inputs the detergent in the detergent box 400 and the softener in the softener box 500 into the washing and dehydrating tub 22. The detergent box 400 and the softener box 500 correspond to the "box body" of the present invention. The water supply unit 600 corresponds to the "throw-in mechanism" of the present invention.
As shown in fig. 6 (a) and (b), the detergent box 400 is formed of, for example, a resin material and has a box shape long in the front-rear direction. A circular inlet 401 is formed on the front side of the upper surface of the detergent box 400. A filter 410 is attached to the inlet 401. The filter 410 captures foreign matters entering the detergent box 400 from the inlet 401. A circular discharge portion 402 protruding downward is formed on the front side of the bottom surface of the detergent box 400. A cylindrical discharge port 403 extending rearward is formed in the peripheral surface of the discharge portion 402.
As shown in fig. 6 (c), the detergent box 400 includes a detergent electrode unit 420 in order to detect that the remaining amount of the detergent in the box is reduced. The detergent electrode unit 420 is composed of a pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, i.e., a first electrode terminal 421 and a second electrode terminal 422.
The first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 are formed of a conductive material such as steel, and include round bar-shaped terminal portions 421a and 422a and head portions 421b and 422b provided at upper end portions of the terminal portions 421a and 422 a. External threads are formed at the upper portions of the respective terminal portions 421a, 422 a. Further, a cross-shaped groove is formed in each of the head portions 421b, 422b so that the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 can be rotated by a screwdriver.
A first fitting boss 404 and a second fitting boss 405 protruding toward the inside of the case are formed on the top surface of the detergent case 400 in a manner of being aligned in the left-right direction. The first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 are inserted into the inside of the detergent box 400 from above through the first and second fitting bosses 404 and 405. At this time, the upper portions of the terminal portions 421a, 422a having the external threads are fixed through the first fitting boss 404 and the second fitting boss 405 while rotating. In this manner, the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 are fixed to the top surface portion of the detergent box 400. The terminal portions 421a, 422a of the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 extend downward from the top surface portion of the detergent box 400, and the tip ends thereof are located near the bottom surface portion of the detergent box 400. The interval between the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 is relatively small, and is set to be about ten millimeters, for example.
When the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1, that is, the remaining amount of the detergent is more than the predetermined amount and the detergent is sufficiently interposed between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422, the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is relatively small, and when the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1, that is, the remaining amount of the detergent is less than the predetermined amount and the detergent is hardly interposed or not interposed at all between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422, the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is relatively large because the detergent is substantially air interposed between the both. Therefore, when the current is supplied between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422, if the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1, the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 are in a current-carrying state by the detergent, and if the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1, the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 are not in a current-carrying state by the detergent.
As shown in fig. 7 (a) and (b), the softener case 500 is formed of, for example, a resin material, and has a box shape long in the front-rear direction. A circular inlet 501 is formed on the front side of the upper surface of the softener case 500. A filter 510 is attached to the inlet 501. The filter 510 captures foreign matter entering the softener box 500 from the inlet 501. A circular discharge portion 502 protruding downward is formed on the front side of the bottom surface of the softener case 500. A cylindrical discharge port 503 extending rearward is formed in the peripheral surface of the discharge portion 502.
As shown in fig. 7 (c), the softener cartridge 500 includes a softener electrode unit 520 for detecting that the remaining amount of the softener in the cartridge is reduced. The compliant electrode unit 520 is composed of a pair of electrode terminals 521, 522, i.e., a first electrode terminal 521 and a second electrode terminal 522.
The first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 have the same structure as the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 of the detergent electrode unit 420, and include terminal portions 521a and 522a having male screws and head portions 521b and 522b having cross-shaped grooves.
As with the detergent box 400, a first fitting boss 504 and a second fitting boss 505 are formed at the top surface portion of the softener box 500. The first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 are inserted into the inside of the softener case 500 from above through these fitting bosses 504, 505, and are fixed to these fitting bosses 504, 505. The terminal portions 521a and 522a of the first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 extend downward from the top surface portion of the softener case 500, and the tips thereof are located near the bottom surface portion of the softener case 500. The interval between the first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 is relatively small, and is set to be about ten millimeters, for example.
When the liquid level in the softener case 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2, that is, the remaining amount of the softener is more than the predetermined amount and the softener is sufficiently interposed between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522, the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 is relatively small, and when the liquid level in the softener case 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2, that is, the remaining amount of the softener is less than the predetermined amount and the softener is hardly interposed or not interposed at all between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522, the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 is relatively large because the softener is basically air interposed therebetween. Therefore, when the current is supplied between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522, if the liquid level in the softener case 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2, the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 are in a current-supplying state by the softener, and if the liquid level in the softener case 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2, the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 are not in a current-supplying state by the softener.
Referring to fig. 5, the water supply unit 600 includes: waterway member 610, water supply valve 620, first three-way valve 630, second three-way valve 640, third three-way valve 650, and pump 660.
The water channel member 610 is provided with a water filling chamber 611. A water filling port 611a is formed at the bottom of the water filling chamber 611 and at the tip. The water filling port 611a faces above the washing and dehydrating tub 22.
A first waterway 612 and a second waterway 613 connected to the water filling chamber 611 are formed in the waterway member 610, and an inflow port 614 for water flowing to the first waterway 612 and an inflow port 615 for water flowing to the second waterway 613 are provided. Further, a branch waterway 616 branched from the first waterway 612 for supplying water to the storage tank 60 is formed in the waterway member 610. The outflow port 616a of the branch waterway 616 is connected to the inflow port of the storage tank 60.
A second three-way valve 640, a first three-way valve 630, a pump 660, and a third three-way valve 650 are disposed in the first waterway 612 in this order from the upstream, midway along the path from the inflow port 614 to the water injection chamber 611. Accordingly, the first waterway 612 is partitioned at the positions of the second three-way valve 640, the first three-way valve 630, the pump 660, and the third three-way valve 650, and has upstream side connection ports 617a, 617b, 617c, 617d and downstream side connection ports 618a, 618b, 618c, 618d at the respective positions.
The water supply valve 620 is a so-called double valve having a first valve 621 and a second valve 622 having a rated flow greater than that of the first valve 621. The water inlet 623 of the water supply valve 620 is connected to a faucet via a water supply hose, not shown. The water outlet 624 of the first valve 621 is connected to the inlet 614, and the water outlet 625 of the second valve 622 is connected to the inlet 615.
The first three-way valve 630 and the second three-way valve 640 have first water inlets 631, 641, second water inlets 632, 642, and water outlets 633, 643, and can be switched between a state in which the first water inlets 631, 641 communicate with the water outlets 633, 643 and a state in which the second water inlets 632, 642 communicate with the water outlets 633, 643. The third three-way valve 650 has a water inlet 651, a first water outlet 652, and a second water outlet 653, and is switchable between a state in which the water inlet 651 is in communication with the first water outlet 652 and a state in which the water inlet 651 is in communication with the second water outlet 653.
The first water inlet 631 and the water outlet 633 of the first three-way valve 630 are connected to the upstream connection port 617b and the downstream connection port 618b, respectively. The water inlet 651, the first water outlet 652, and the second water outlet 653 of the third three-way valve 650 are connected to the upstream connection port 617d, the downstream connection port 618d, and the connection port 616b of the branch waterway 616, respectively. The first water inlet 641 and the water outlet 643 of the second three-way valve 640 are connected to the upstream connection port 617a and the downstream connection port 618a, respectively.
Pump 660 is a piston pump. The suction port 661 and the discharge port 662 of the pump 660 are connected to the upstream connection port 617c and the downstream connection port 618c, respectively.
The second water inlet 632 of the first three-way valve 630 is connected to the discharge port 403 of the detergent box 400 via a rubber detergent supply pipe 430. The second water inlet 642 of the second three-way valve 640 is connected to the outlet 503 of the softener box 500 via a softener supply pipe 530 made of rubber.
Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing the structure of the fully automatic washing machine 1.
The fully automatic washing machine 1 includes an operation unit 710 and a display unit 720 in addition to the above-described configuration. Further, the control unit 16 includes: a control unit 801, a storage unit 802, an operation detection unit 803, a detergent amount detection unit 804, a softener amount detection unit 805, a display drive unit 806, a motor drive unit 807, a clutch drive unit 808, six valve drive units 809 to 814, a pump drive unit 815, and a vibrator drive unit 816.
The operation unit 710 and the display unit 720 can be provided, for example, in the front of the upper panel 12 and the front of the upper cover 15.
The operation unit 710 includes various operation buttons such as a power-on button 711, a power-off button 712, a start button 713, a mode selection button 714, a cleaning button 715, a detergent throw-in button 716, and a softener throw-in button 717. The power on button 711 and the power off button 712 are buttons for turning on and off power to the fully automatic washing machine 1, respectively. The start button 713 is a button for starting the washing operation and the cleaning operation. The mode selection button 714 is a button for selecting an arbitrary operation mode from a plurality of operation modes of the washing operation. The cleaning button 715 is a button for selecting a cleaning operation. The detergent input button 716 is a button for selecting whether or not to set automatic input of detergent, and if the automatic input is set, setting the amount of detergent to be one of normal, more amount, and less amount. The softener input button 717 is a button for selecting whether or not to set the automatic input of the softener, and if the automatic input is set, setting the amount of the softener to be one of normal, a larger amount, and a smaller amount. The power supply of the fully automatic washing machine 1 is turned off not only when the power off button 712 is operated, but also when a predetermined time has elapsed after the washing operation or a state in which the washing operation is not started after the power on, and when a predetermined time has elapsed after the washing operation is completed.
The display unit 720 includes a plurality of LEDs and a seven-segment display, and displays the operation mode selected by the mode selection button 714, the progress degree or the remaining time of the washing operation, and the setting results of the detergent push-in button 716 and the softener push-in button 717, that is, the setting display of any one of "normal", "more amount", "less amount", and "none", and the display indicating that the detergent and the softener need to be replenished. The display unit 720 corresponds to a "notification unit" of the present invention.
The operation detection unit 803 outputs an operation signal corresponding to an operation button operated by the user, among the various operation buttons of the operation unit 710, to the control unit 801.
The detergent amount detector 804 is connected to a pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 of the detergent electrode unit 420. The detergent amount detecting section 804 includes a rectangular wave generating circuit, and is configured to output a pulse signal having a pulse width of a high voltage corresponding to a resistance value generated in the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 to the control section 801. For example, when the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1 and the resistance between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is in a relatively low state, the pulse width of the high voltage is relatively widened, and when the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 and the resistance between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is in a relatively high state, the pulse width of the high voltage is relatively narrowed.
The softener amount detecting section 805 is connected to a pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 of the softener electrode unit 520. The compliance amount detecting unit 805 includes a rectangular wave generating circuit, and is configured to output a pulse signal having a pulse width of a high voltage corresponding to a resistance value generated in the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 to the control unit 801. For example, when the liquid level in the softener case 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2 and the resistance between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 is in a relatively low state, the pulse width of the high voltage is relatively wide, and when the liquid level in the softener case 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2 and the resistance between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 is in a relatively high state, the pulse width of the high voltage is relatively narrow.
The resistance values of the detergent and the softener vary depending on the types thereof. Therefore, when the type of the detergent stored in the detergent box 400 is changed, the pulse width of the high voltage of the pulse signal from the detergent amount detecting unit 804 may be changed when the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1. Similarly, when the type of the softener stored in the softener cartridge 500 is changed, the pulse width of the high voltage of the pulse signal from the softener amount detecting unit 805 may be changed when the liquid level in the softener cartridge 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2.
The display driving unit 806, the motor driving unit 807, the clutch driving unit 808, the six valve driving units 809 to 814, the pump driving unit 815, and the vibrator driving unit 816 drive the display unit 720, the driving motor 31, the clutch mechanism 32a, the water supply valve 620, the first three-way valve 630, the second three-way valve 640, the third three-way valve 650, the supply valve 61, the drain valve 40, the pump 660, and the ultrasonic vibrator 111, respectively, in response to control signals from the control unit 801.
The memory section 802 includes an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory), a RAM (random access memory), and the like. The storage unit 802 stores programs for executing washing operations in various operation modes and washing operations by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. The storage unit 802 stores various parameters and various control flags for execution of these programs.
The control unit 801 includes a CPU (central processing unit) and the like, and controls the display driving unit 806, the motor driving unit 807, the clutch driving unit 808, the six valve driving units 809 to 814, the pump driving unit 815, the vibrator driving unit 816 and the like according to programs stored in the storage unit 802 based on respective signals from the operation detecting unit 803, the detergent amount detecting unit 804, the softener amount detecting unit 805 and the like.
The fully automatic washing machine 1 can perform washing operations in various operation modes. In the washing operation, a washing process, an intermediate dehydrating process, a rinsing process, and a final dehydrating process are sequentially performed.
During the washing and rinsing processes, the pulsator 24 rotates clockwise and counterclockwise in a state that water is stored in the washing and dehydrating tub 22. By the rotation of the pulsator 24, a water current is generated in the washing and dehydrating tub 22. During the washing process, the laundry is washed by the generated water flow and the detergent contained in the water. During the rinsing process, the laundry is rinsed by the generated water flow.
The wash and dehydration tub 22 and the pulsator 24 integrally rotate at a high speed during the intermediate dehydration process and the final dehydration process. The laundry is dehydrated by the centrifugal force generated in the washing and dehydrating tub 22.
When automatic detergent supply is set based on the operation of the detergent supply button 716, detergent is automatically supplied into the washing and dehydrating tub 22 through the water supply device 80 at the time of water supply during washing. At this time, the third three-way valve 650 is switched to a state in which the water inlet 651 is connected to the first water outlet 652, and the first water passage 612 is blocked from the storage tank 60 and connected to the water injection chamber 611. The second three-way valve 640 is switched to a state in which the first water inlet 641 is connected to the water outlet 643, and the first water channel 612 is connected to the second three-way valve 640.
First, the first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which the second water inlet 632 communicates with the water outlet 633. Thereby, the detergent can flow into the first water path 612. The pump 660 operates, and air on the upstream side of the pump 660 in the first water path 612 is sucked, and the upstream side becomes negative pressure. Thereby, as shown by the one-dot chain line in fig. 5, the liquid detergent in the detergent box 400 is sucked into the first waterway 612 through the detergent supply pipe 430. An amount of detergent corresponding to the operation time of the pump 660 is stored in the first waterway 612.
Next, the first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which the first water inlet 631 communicates with the water outlet 633. This makes it impossible for the detergent to flow into the first water path 612. The first waterway 612 is connected to the position of the first three-way valve 630. As shown by solid arrows in fig. 5, the first valve 621 of the water supply valve 620 is opened, and water from the tap is supplied into the first waterway 612. The water flowing through the first waterway 612 washes away the detergent stored in the first waterway 612. The detergent washed away by the water flows into the water injection chamber 611 together with the water, and is poured into the washing and dehydrating tub 22 through the water injection port 611 a.
Further, in the water supply valve 620, the first valve 621 is opened and the second valve 622 is opened, so that water is supplied into the washing and dehydrating tub 22. As indicated by the broken line arrow in fig. 5, water from the faucet is supplied into the second water passage 613, flows into the second water passage 613, reaches the water injection chamber 611, and is discharged from the water injection port 611a into the washing and dehydrating tub 22. At this time, the flow rate of the water flowing through the second waterway 613 is greater than that of the water flowing through the first waterway 612. When the water level in the washing and dehydrating tub 22 reaches a predetermined washing water level, the first and second valves 621 and 622 are closed, and the water supply is terminated.
When automatic softener input is set based on the operation of the softener input button 717, the softener is automatically input into the washing and dehydrating tub 22 through the water supply device 80 at the time of water supply during rinsing. At this time, the first waterway 612 is connected to the water injection chamber 611 as in the cleaning process. The first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which the first water inlet 631 communicates with the water outlet 633, and the first water path 612 is connected to the position of the first three-way valve 630.
First, the second three-way valve 640 is switched to a state in which the second water inlet 642 communicates with the water outlet 643. Thereby, the softener can flow into the first waterway 612. The pump 660 operates, as shown by the two-dot chain line of fig. 5, the liquid softener in the softener box 500 is sucked into the first waterway 612 via the softener supply pipe 530. A quantity of softener corresponding to the operation time of the pump 660 is stored in the first waterway 612.
Next, the second three-way valve 640 is switched to a state in which the first water inlet 641 and the water outlet 643 are in communication. Thereby, the softener can flow into the first waterway 612. The first waterway 612 is connected to the second three-way valve 640. As shown by solid arrows in fig. 5, the first valve 621 is opened, and water from the tap is supplied into the first waterway 612. The softener stored in the first water path 612 is washed away by the water flowing through the first water path 612 and flows into the water injection chamber 611, and is poured into the washing and dehydrating tub 22 through the water injection port 611 a.
Further, as in the washing process, the second valve 622 and the first valve 621 are simultaneously opened to supply water into the washing and dehydrating tub 22.
The water level, i.e., the amount of water in the washing and dehydrating tub 22 during the washing and rinsing processes is determined according to the load amount of laundry detected before the water supply. The amount of the liquid agent to be put into the washing and dehydrating tub 22, that is, the amount of the liquid agent to be used, is determined based on the amount of water.
For example, the amount of the liquid agent with respect to the reference water amount (for example, 30 liters) is associated with the type of each liquid agent, and is stored in the storage unit 802 in advance. The user selects and sets the type of liquid agent stored in the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500 from the types of liquid agents by a predetermined setting operation. The control unit 801 reads out the amount of the liquid formulation of the set type with respect to the reference water amount from the storage unit 802, calculates the amount of the liquid formulation corresponding to the water amount from the read out amount of the liquid formulation and the water amount determined based on the load amount, and uses the calculated amount of the liquid formulation as the amount of the liquid formulation used in the washing operation. When the "more amount" or "less amount" is set by the detergent input button 716 and the softener input button 717, the calculated amount of the liquid agent is increased or decreased by a predetermined ratio as the usage amount of the liquid agent.
At the time of water supply in the washing process, a certain amount of detergent is introduced from the detergent box 400 into the first waterway 612 of the water supply unit 600 by the operation of the pump 660. Likewise, at the time of water supply in the rinsing process, the determined usage amount of the softener is introduced from the softener box 500 into the first waterway 612 of the water supply unit 600 by the operation of the pump 660.
When automatic detergent supply is not set, detergent is not introduced from the detergent box 400 to the water supply unit 600 and tap water is supplied to the first water path 612 during water supply during washing, and detergent is not automatically supplied to the washing and dehydrating tub 22. In this case, water is supplied to the washing and dehydrating tub 22 only through the second waterway 613 of the water supply unit 600. The detergent is manually put into the washing and dehydrating tub 22 by a user. Similarly, when automatic softener input is not set, softener is not introduced from the softener box 500 into the water supply unit 600 and tap water is supplied to the first water channel 612 during water supply in the rinsing process, and softener is not automatically input into the washing and dehydrating tub 22. In this case, water is supplied to the washing and dehydrating tub 22 only through the second waterway 613 of the water supply unit 600. The softener is manually thrown into the wash dewatering tub 22 by a user.
The fully automatic washing machine 1 can perform a washing operation by the ultrasonic washing device 50.
In the washing operation, after the washing water is supplied from the reserve tank 60 to the water storage tub 210, the dirt adhering portion of the laundry is interposed between the water storage tub 210 and the ultrasonic wave generating body 110. The dirt adhering portion is soaked in the washing water stored in the water storage tub 210 and is in contact with the front end surface of the ultrasonic wave generating body 110. When the ultrasonic wave generator 110 is operated, ultrasonic waves are generated from the front end thereof. Dirt is peeled from the object to be cleaned by the action of ultrasonic waves. In this case, the cleaning force is increased by applying the force of the detergent.
In the water supply during the washing operation, the washing water is supplied into the storage tank 60 by the water supply device 80 before the water is supplied into the water storage tub 210. At this time, the supply valve 61 is closed.
First, the third three-way valve 650 is switched to a state in which the water inlet 651 is in communication with the second water outlet 653. Thereby, the first water channel 612 is isolated from the water filling chamber 611 and connected to the storage tank 60 via the branch water channel 616. As in the cleaning process, after the first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which the detergent can flow into the first waterway 612, the pump 660 is operated, and the liquid detergent in the detergent box 400 is sucked into the first waterway 612 and stored in the first waterway 612.
Next, the first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which the detergent introduction path is closed and the first waterway 612 is connected at the position of the first three-way valve 630. Then, the first valve 621 of the water supply valve 620 is opened, and water from the tap is supplied into the first waterway 612. The detergent stored in the first waterway 612 is washed away by the water flowing through the first waterway 612, and the detergent is mixed with the water to be washing water. The washing water flows into the storage tank 60 through the branch waterway 616. When a predetermined amount of washing water is stored in the storage tank 60, the first valve 621 is closed.
The supply valve 61 is opened, and the washing water in the storage tank 60 is supplied into the water storage tub 210 through the supply nozzle 62. Then, in the washing operation, each time the washing water in the water storage tub 210 is reduced by the water absorption of the laundry, a corresponding amount of washing water is supplied from the storage tank 60 to the water storage tub 210.
The amount of the detergent contained in the washing water to be charged into the storage tank 60 varies according to the kind of the detergent stored in the detergent box 400. For example, the control unit 801 reads out the amount of the detergent corresponding to the reference water amount from the storage unit 802 in the types of the detergents in the detergent box 400, and reduces the read-out amount by a predetermined ratio, and sets the amount of the detergent to be input, that is, the amount of the detergent to be input.
When the washing water in the sump 60 is supplied to the water tub 210, the remaining amount of the washing water in the sump 60 may be reduced. In this case, the water supply device 80 supplies the cleaning water again into the storage tank 60. The amount of detergent used in this case is set to be the same as that used when water is initially supplied, for example. Alternatively, the second detergent may be used in a smaller amount than the first detergent, considering that the amount of the washing water supplied is reduced according to the amount of the washing water remaining in the storage tank 60. The amount of detergent used in the washing operation is obtained by adding the initial amount of detergent to the second amount of detergent used.
In the case where the washing water used in the previous washing operation remains in the water storage tub 210 at the start of the washing operation and the washing water is not substantially supplied from the storage tank 60 to the water storage tub 210, the second washing water supply is not performed to the storage tank 60.
The fully automatic washing machine 1 of the present embodiment has a function of notifying the need for replenishment of the liquid agent when the amount of the liquid agent in the detergent box 400 or the softener box 500 becomes small. Hereinafter, this function will be referred to as a liquid agent replenishment notifying function.
Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing a control process for the liquid agent replenishment notification function. Fig. 10 (a) and (b) are flowcharts showing a first replenishment notification process and a second replenishment notification process included in the control process for the liquid agent replenishment notification function, respectively.
The control process of fig. 9 is repeatedly executed in parallel by the control unit 801 for the detergent in the detergent box 400 and the softener in the softener box 500, respectively. The softener is not used in the cleaning operation performed by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. Therefore, the process of determining completion of the cleaning operation in S12 of fig. 9 is not performed for the softener in the softener box 500.
Hereinafter, the control process of the liquid agent replenishment notice function will be described by taking as an example the control process of the detergent in the detergent box 400.
Referring to fig. 9, the control unit 801 monitors whether or not the washing operation is completed, whether or not the fully automatic washing machine 1 is powered on by the operation of the power on button 711, and whether or not a confirmation operation for confirming the remaining amount of the liquid formulation is performed (S11, S12, S13, S14). The confirmation operation may be a so-called special operation, for example, an operation of simultaneously pressing the power-on button 711 and a specific operation button.
When the washing operation is completed (yes in S11) or when the washing operation is completed (S12), the control unit 801 executes the first supplementary notification process shown in fig. 10 (a).
Referring to fig. 10 (a), the control unit 801 energizes between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 for a predetermined time, for example, 2 seconds (S101). Then, the control unit 801 detects the pulse width of the high voltage of the pulse signal output from the detergent amount detection unit 804 during the energization, and determines whether or not the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 based on the detected pulse width (S102). Whether or not the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is lower than the prescribed liquid level L1 is determined by whether or not the detected pulse width is greater than a threshold value set according to the type of detergent set by the user.
When the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (102: yes), the control unit 801 adds the amount of detergent used X in the current washing operation or the washing operation to the integrated value XT of the amount of use, and obtains a new integrated value XT of the amount of use (S103). Then, the control unit 801 determines whether or not the integrated value XT of the usage amount is greater than a threshold value (S104). Here, the threshold value is set to a value such that, for example, when the threshold value is subtracted from the amount of the detergent when the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is substantially at the predetermined liquid level L1, the detergent of the one-time washing operation amount remains in the detergent box 400.
When the integrated value XT of the usage amount is equal to or smaller than the threshold value (S104: no), the control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage amount in the storage unit 802 (S106). At this time, the integrated value XT of the usage amount is stored in the EEPROM of the storage unit 802 so as to be stored even when the power supply to the fully automatic washing machine 1 is turned off.
When the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1, the amount of detergent X is added every time the washing operation or the cleaning operation is completed, and thus the integrated value XT of the amount of detergent is increased. Thus, when the integrated value XT of the usage exceeds the threshold (S104: yes), the control unit 801 sets the replenishment condition to be satisfied, and causes the display unit 720 to notify that the replenishment of the detergent into the detergent box 400 is required (S105). For example, the display unit 720 is assigned to an LED that is turned on or blinks to indicate that replenishment is required. The notification by the display unit 720 is performed for a predetermined time, for example, 20 minutes. When the notification by the display unit 720 is completed, the power of the fully automatic washing machine 1 is turned off.
The control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage amount exceeding the threshold in the storage unit 802 (S106).
In S102, when the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is not lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (S102: NO), the control unit 801 sets the cumulative value XT of the usage to zero (S107). That is, when the integrated value XT of the usage amount is not zero, the value is reset to zero, and when the integrated value XT of the usage amount is zero, the value is maintained to zero. When the liquid level lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 becomes equal to or higher than the predetermined liquid level L1 by replenishing the detergent into the detergent box 400, the integrated value XT of the usage amount is reset to zero.
The control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the use amount of zero in the storage unit 802 (S106).
Thus, the first supplementary notification process is completed.
On the other hand, when the power is turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1 (yes in S13) or when a confirmation operation is performed (yes in S14), the control unit 801 executes the second supplementary notification process shown in FIG. 10 (b).
Referring to fig. 10 b, the control unit 801 energizes the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 for a predetermined time (S201). The control unit 801 detects the pulse width of the high voltage of the pulse signal output from the detergent amount detection unit 804 during the energization, and determines whether or not the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 based on the detected pulse width (S202).
When the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (yes in S202), the control unit 801 determines whether or not the integrated value XT of the usage amount is greater than a threshold value (S203). When the integrated value XT of the usage amount is larger than the threshold value (S203: yes), the replenishment condition is satisfied, and the control unit 801 causes the display unit 720 to prompt the replenishment of the detergent into the detergent box 400 (S204). The notification by the display unit 720 is performed until the power supply of the fully automatic washing machine 1 is turned off, for example. However, in the first replenishment notification process when the washing operation is completed by replenishing the detergent into the detergent box 400, notification is stopped when the state of energization to the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is confirmed.
In the second supplementary notification process, the notification by the display unit 720 when it is determined that the integrated value XT of the usage amount is greater than the threshold value is as follows: in the first replenishment notice processing after the last washing operation or the completion of the washing operation, even if it is determined that the integrated value XT of the usage amount is greater than the threshold value and notified by the display unit 720, the user does not replenish the detergent in the detergent box 400.
If it is determined that the liquid level in the detergent box 400 is not lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 in S202 (S202: no), the control unit 801 sets the integrated value XT of the usage amount to zero (S205). Then, the control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the zero usage amount in the storage unit 802 (S206).
Thus, the second supplementary notification process is completed.
The control process related to the softener in the softener box 500 is the same as the control process related to the detergent in the detergent box 400. That is, based on the time of completion of the washing operation, the time of turning on the power supply to the fully automatic washing machine 1, or the time of performing the confirmation operation, the current is supplied between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522, and it is determined whether or not the liquid level in the softener case 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2 based on the conduction state. When the cumulative value XT of the usage amount of the softener exceeds the threshold value in a state where the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2, the display unit 720 notifies that the cumulative value XT is greater than the threshold value. For example, the display unit 720 is assigned to a LED that indicates that the softener needs to be replenished and blinks or lights up.
Effect of the embodiments >
As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the liquid levels in the two cartridges are lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 based on the change in resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 disposed in the detergent cartridge 400 and the softener cartridge 500, and the notification indicating that the replenishment liquid agent is required is performed by the display unit 720 based on the satisfaction of the replenishment condition including the liquid level being lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2. Thus, the user can replenish the detergent and the softener at the timing when the remaining amount of the detergent in the detergent box 400 and the softener in the softener box 500 becomes smaller.
In addition, according to the present embodiment, the current is supplied between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 based on the arrival of the time when the washing operation is completed, the time when the power is turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1, or the time when the confirmation operation is performed. Accordingly, since the current can be supplied between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 at a timing when the user is likely to be present near the fully automatic washing machine 1 and is likely to notice the notification by the display unit 720, the current can be supplied efficiently without wasteful, the current supply time can be shortened, and the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion on the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 can be suppressed.
Further, according to the present embodiment, when the liquid level in the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500 becomes lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, the accumulation of the usage amount of the liquid agent per washing operation is started, and when the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 and the accumulation value XT of the usage amount exceeds the threshold value, it is considered that the replenishment condition is satisfied, and the display unit 720 notifies that the replenishment condition is satisfied. This allows the liquid agent to be replenished at a timing when the remaining amount of the liquid agent becomes smaller than the remaining amount when the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, and therefore, the interval for replenishing the liquid agent can be prolonged, and the trouble of the user can be reduced. Further, since the detergent usage amount per cleaning operation performed by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is integrated in addition to the cleaning operation, the detergent usage amount can be accurately obtained.
The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications other than the above embodiments may be made.
For example, in the above embodiment, all of the timing at which the power is turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1 by the operation of the power on button 711, the timing at which the confirmation operation for confirming the remaining amount of the liquid agent is performed, and the timing at which the washing operation is completed are detected as the timing at which the current is supplied between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522. However, it is also possible to set at least one time as the detection time without setting all of the three times as the detection time. In the above embodiment, the time when the washing operation is completed is set as the detection time, but the time when the washing operation is completed may be set as the detection time. If the time when the washing operation is completed is not set as the detection time and the first replenishment notice processing based on the completion of the washing operation is not performed, in S202 of the second replenishment notice processing, when it is determined that the liquid levels in the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500 are lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, the processing of adding the integrated value XT of the usage amount to the detergent usage amount X in the previous washing operation and the processing of storing the integrated value XT of the usage amount after addition in the storage unit 802 are performed.
In the above embodiment, the accumulation of the amount of use per washing operation of the detergent and the amount of use per washing operation of the softener is started and the accumulation of the amount of use per washing operation of the softener is started based on the liquid levels in the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500 becoming lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, and when the liquid levels are lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 and the accumulation value XT of the amount of use exceeds the threshold value, it is considered that the replenishment condition is satisfied and the notification is made by the display unit 720. However, instead of the accumulation of the usage amount, the accumulation of the number of operations of the washing operation and the cleaning operation of the detergent, and the accumulation of the washing operation of the softener may be started, and if the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 and the accumulated number of operations exceeds the threshold value, the replenishment condition is considered to be satisfied and the notification is made by the display unit 720. In this case, the liquid agent can be replenished at a timing when the remaining amount of the liquid agent becomes smaller than the remaining amount when the liquid levels in the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500 are lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, and therefore, the interval for replenishing the liquid agent can be prolonged. Further, the conditions may be set to a configuration that does not include the amount of use and the number of operations. In this case, when the liquid levels in the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500 are lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, the display unit 720 notifies that the replenishment condition is satisfied.
In the above embodiment, the fully automatic washing machine 1 is provided with the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, and the supply nozzle 62 and the storage tank 60 are provided for supplying water to the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. However, the fully automatic washing machine 1 may be configured without the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, the supply nozzle 62, and the storage tank 60. In this case, the third three-way valve 650 and the branch waterway 616 are not provided in the water supply device 80. In the control process for the liquid agent replenishment notice function shown in fig. 9, the process of determining that the cleaning operation in S12 is completed is not performed.
The shape and arrangement of the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 in the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500 are not limited to the above embodiments, and may be any shape and arrangement as long as the remaining amount of the liquid agent can be detected.
Further, in the above embodiment, the water supply device 80 includes the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500, and is configured to automatically feed both the detergent and the softener into the washing and dehydrating tub 22. However, the water supply device 80 may be configured not to include any one of the detergent box 400 and the softener box 500.
Further, in the above-described embodiment, as the input mechanism portion for automatically inputting the detergent in the detergent box 400 and the softener in the softener box 500 into the washing and dehydrating tub 22, the water supply unit 600 that intakes the detergent and the softener into the first water passage 612 and causes the detergent and the softener to flow into the washing and dehydrating tub 22 by the water flowing in the first water passage 612 is used. However, as long as the detergent and softener can be automatically introduced into the washing and dehydrating tub 22, an introduction mechanism having a different structure from the water supply unit 600 may be used.
Further, in the above embodiment, the detergent amount detecting unit 804 has a circuit configuration for outputting a pulse signal whose pulse width of a high voltage varies according to a resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422, but a circuit configuration for outputting a detection signal different from the pulse signal, such as a voltage signal having a different magnitude, may be employed. Similarly, the compliance amount detecting unit 805 may have a circuit configuration that outputs a detection signal different from the pulse signal.
Further, in the above embodiment, the notification of the need for replenishment of the liquid agent is performed by the display unit 720. However, the notification of the sound such as the sound indicating the need to supplement the liquid agent may be performed by a speaker, not shown, provided in the fully automatic washing machine 1.
Further, in the above embodiment, the fully automatic washing machine 1 is shown. However, the present invention can also be applied to a washing machine other than the fully automatic washing machine 1, for example, a drum type washing machine having a horizontal axis type drum as a washing tub. In addition, the invention can also be applied to a full-automatic washing and drying integrated machine with a drying function and a drum-type washing and drying integrated machine.
Further, the embodiments of the present invention can be modified in various ways as appropriate within the scope of the technical idea shown in the technical proposal.

Claims (5)

  1. A washing machine is characterized by comprising:
    a washing barrel configured in the box body for washing the washed objects;
    a case for storing a liquid for washing;
    an input mechanism part for inputting the liquid agent in the box body into the washing barrel;
    a pair of electrode terminals disposed in the case;
    a control unit that determines whether or not the liquid level in the case is lower than a predetermined liquid level, based on a change in resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals; and
    a notification unit for notifying the user of the presence of the user,
    the control unit conducts current between the pair of electrode terminals for a predetermined time period based on the arrival of a predetermined detection time,
    the control unit causes the notifying unit to notify that the liquid formulation is required to be replenished based on satisfaction of a replenishment condition including that the liquid level in the cartridge is lower than the predetermined liquid level.
  2. A washing machine as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that,
    the detection timing includes at least one of a timing at which a power supply is turned on to the washing machine, a timing at which an operation for confirming a remaining amount of the liquid formulation is performed, and a timing at which a washing operation is completed.
  3. A washing machine as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that,
    the control unit starts to accumulate the usage amount of the liquid agent per washing operation or the number of times of the washing operation based on the liquid level in the case becoming lower than the predetermined liquid level,
    The replenishment condition is satisfied when the liquid level in the case is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the integrated value of the usage amount or the operation number exceeds a predetermined threshold.
  4. A washing machine as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that,
    the liquid formulation within the cartridge comprises a liquid detergent,
    the washing machine further comprises: an ultrasonic cleaning device comprising a water storage tank for storing water containing the detergent inputted by the input mechanism part, wherein ultrasonic waves generated by an ultrasonic generator are applied to the washed matter immersed in the water storage tank to clean the washed matter,
    the detection timing includes a timing at which the washing operation is completed and a timing at which the washing operation by the ultrasonic cleaning apparatus is completed.
  5. A washing machine as claimed in claim 4, wherein,
    the control unit starts to accumulate the usage amount of the detergent per washing operation and per washing operation or the number of times of the washing operation and the washing operation based on the liquid level in the case becoming lower than the prescribed liquid level,
    the replenishment condition is satisfied when the liquid level in the case is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the integrated value of the usage amount or the operation number exceeds a predetermined threshold.
CN202180058378.5A 2020-07-30 2021-04-27 Washing machine Pending CN116113735A (en)

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JP2020129523A JP2022026179A (en) 2020-07-30 2020-07-30 washing machine
JP2020-129523 2020-07-30
PCT/CN2021/090109 WO2022021969A1 (en) 2020-07-30 2021-04-27 Washing machine

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