EP2169104B1 - Process for cleaning at least one reservoir for liquid detergent of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine and a corresponding washing machine - Google Patents

Process for cleaning at least one reservoir for liquid detergent of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine and a corresponding washing machine Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2169104B1
EP2169104B1 EP09171497.2A EP09171497A EP2169104B1 EP 2169104 B1 EP2169104 B1 EP 2169104B1 EP 09171497 A EP09171497 A EP 09171497A EP 2169104 B1 EP2169104 B1 EP 2169104B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
detergent
tank
liquid
washing machine
cleaning
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EP09171497.2A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2169104A1 (en
Inventor
Cécile Locatelli
Hervé Pont
Bernard Pinochet
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Groupe Brandt SAS
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Groupe Brandt SAS
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Publication of EP2169104A1 publication Critical patent/EP2169104A1/en
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L15/00—Washing or rinsing machines for crockery or tableware
    • A47L15/42—Details
    • A47L15/44—Devices for adding cleaning agents; Devices for dispensing cleaning agents, rinsing aids or deodorants
    • 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
    • D06F35/00—Washing machines, apparatus, or methods not otherwise provided for
    • D06F35/005—Methods for washing, rinsing or spin-drying
    • D06F35/008—Methods for washing, rinsing or spin-drying for disinfecting the tub or the drum
    • 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
    • D06F39/022—Devices for adding soap or other washing agents in a liquid state

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a domestic washing machine.
  • a domestic washing machine comprising at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser associated with control means of said machine and a microprocessor.
  • the present invention relates to cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a domestic washing machine.
  • Washing machines are already known comprising a liquid detergent reservoir of a detergent dispenser.
  • washing machines have the disadvantage of having only a manual drain.
  • the user is obliged to disassemble a closure cap of the detergent tank and let the detergent flow through an opening being closed by said plug.
  • the detergent begins to flow even before the cap is completely removed. Then, the user is left with detergent on the hands during this emptying operation.
  • the user must provide a sufficiently large container to accommodate the amount of detergent remaining in the tank and place this container under the opening closed by the cap.
  • DE 3 704 080 discloses a method and a washing machine as described in the preamble of claim 1 and 10.
  • the document is also known DE 10 2005 012 425 A1 which describes a washing machine comprising a softener storage chamber in which water is introduced intermittently so as to evacuate the softener by mixing it with water.
  • This storage chamber corresponds to a detergent dispenser comprising softener for supplying a bath at different periods of a washing cycle of a washing machine.
  • WO 2007 073012 A1 discloses a method of washing a wash tub comprising a step of removing the detergent from the wash tub to prevent the powdered detergent from forming foam.
  • the phases corresponding to the detergent removal step of the wash tub are performed prior to the operation of the wash cycle so as to avoid contamination with the previously used powder detergent.
  • the present invention aims to solve the aforementioned drawbacks and to provide a washing machine and a method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine for cleaning said at least one a reservoir of liquid detergent automatically by at least one detergent dispensing pump and a pump for emptying the tank.
  • the present invention aims, in a first aspect, a method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine, said washing machine comprising a tank filled with liquid from a water intake, means for controlling an operating cycle of said machine, said at least one liquid detergent tank being adapted to contain a plurality of doses of at least one detergent, said detergent dispenser comprising at least one detergent dispensing pump, said at least one liquid detergent reservoir being connected to said at least one detergent dispensing pump, said at least one detergent dispensing pump being connected to said tank, and said tank being connected to a wastewater discharge network by at least one drain pump.
  • the method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine makes it possible to drain a liquid product contained inside said at least one tank of liquid detergent into the tank and then to evacuate this liquid product from said tank to the wastewater discharge network.
  • the cleaning of said at least one liquid detergent tank can thus be programmed and implemented by the control means of the washing machine actuating said at least one detergent dispensing pump and the drain pump.
  • This method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine avoids spilling detergent on the floor and simplifying the operations to be performed by the user.
  • this method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine makes it possible to use the conventional organs of a washing machine comprising an automatic detergent dispensing without having recourse to additional means causing additional cost for obtaining the washing machine.
  • said liquid product is mixed with water from the network.
  • the liquid product drained from the at least one liquid detergent tank is diluted and can be introduced more easily into the tank.
  • This liquid product mixed with water therefore has a lower viscosity and flows more easily into the tank and limits the fouling of the tank.
  • said method comprises a rinsing step E4 of said tank carried out after said step of evacuation of said liquid product E3 from said tank to said draining network of waste water by said pump emptying.
  • this rinsing step E4 of the tank makes it possible to clean said tank following the emptying of the liquid product contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent.
  • said method comprises a step of introducing water E0 into said at least one reservoir of liquid detergent before said step of acquiring an input signal E1 adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one reservoir of liquid detergent .
  • said at least one tank of liquid detergent is filled with water before starting a cleaning cycle carried out by the domestic washing machine.
  • said at least one liquid detergent reservoir and said at least one detergent dispensing pump are cleaned by the flow of water and detergent residues are removed and drained into the vessel.
  • the water filling of said at least one liquid detergent tank serves to dilute the liquid detergent remaining in said at least one tank of liquid detergent and to avoid rejecting liquid detergent not mixed with water in the evacuation network. wastewater so as to avoid clogging said wastewater disposal network and protecting the environment.
  • the present invention relates to a domestic washing machine, of the washing machine or dishwasher type, comprising a tank filled with liquid from a water intake, control means of a operating cycle of said machine, at least one liquid detergent reservoir of a detergent dispenser being adapted to contain a plurality of doses of at least one detergent, said detergent dispenser comprising at least one detergent dispensing pump, said at least one liquid detergent tank being connected to said at least one detergent dispensing pump, said at least one detergent dispensing pump being connected to said tank, and said tank being connected to a waste water disposal network by at least one drain pump, said at least one liquid detergent tank of said detergent dispenser being associated with control means of said machine.
  • This domestic washing machine has advantages similar to those described above with reference to the cleaning method according to the invention.
  • the use of the method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser according to the invention is not limited to the application in a washing machine, but can be applied in any type of washing apparatus, and in particular in a dishwasher or a washer-dryer.
  • an overhead loading machine has been illustrated.
  • the present invention applies to all types of washing machine, including front-loading.
  • such a washing machine 1 comprises a body 2 adapted to house a washing tub 3 in which is rotatably mounted a drum 4 for containing the laundry.
  • the body 2 comprises in this embodiment an upper opening 5 for introducing and removing the laundry in the drum 4.
  • This access opening 5 can be closed during operation of the machine 1 by a door 6 pivotally mounted on the body 2 of the machine 1.
  • a control panel 15 is also provided in the upper part of the machine 1.
  • the laundry machine 1 comprises a water level regulator (not shown).
  • This water regulating device can be, in known manner, constituted by an air pressure switch whose bell-shaped compression chamber is disposed in the tank 3 of the machine 1.
  • the membrane of the pressure switch that moves under the effect of pressure variations relative to the atmosphere acts with an electrical contact that gives the level signal reached, the automation.
  • the washing machine 1 also comprises a drain pump 18 for renewing the liquid at the bottom of the tank 3.
  • the lower part of the tank 3 may comprise a recycling pump provided with a water guiding pipe discharged by the bearing of the drum 4 and a drain pump 18 connected to a discharge pipe 19.
  • Filters and microfilters can recycle clean water to supply the drum 4 in a closed circuit so as to save the volume of water introduced from the outside.
  • this washing machine 1 has all the organs necessary (not shown) for the operation and execution of the washing, washing and drying cycles of the laundry.
  • the washing machine 1 comprises a tank 2 filled with liquid from a water intake (not shown), a rotating laundry drum 4 housed inside said tank 3 and means control of a laundry program.
  • said at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 is adapted to contain a plurality of doses of at least one detergent.
  • the detergent dispenser 8 comprises at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.
  • Said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 is connected to said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.
  • Said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 is connected to the tank 3, in particular via a pipe 9.
  • the tank 3 is connected to a waste water discharge network 20 by at least one drain pump 18.
  • the connection between the at least one drain pump 18 and the waste water discharge network 20 is achieved by a pipe 19.
  • an auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 is disposed on an inner wall 6a of the door 6 closing an upper access opening 5. This auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 is thus facing the drum 4 and housed in the inside a recess in the tank 2.
  • the auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 is adapted to dispense a single dose of at least one detergent used during the washing phases of the laundry.
  • the auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 is a conventional detergent dispenser for supplying laundry detergents to a laundry machine for an operating cycle. This type of detergent dispenser is well known to those skilled in the art.
  • the auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 can comprise several compartments, generally three in number. Each compartment is adapted to receive a type of product, for example, detergent powder, liquid detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., respectively.
  • the detergent dispenser 8 is disposed in the lower part of the washing machine 1, close to the front wall 2a of the body 2 of the machine 1, or close to the front of the machine 1.
  • the detergent dispenser 8 is adapted to dispense one or more doses of detergent used during the washing phases of the laundry.
  • this detergent dispenser 8 is connected by a line 9 to the washing tub 3 allowing the introduction of one or more doses of detergent into the bottom of the tank 3.
  • the detergent dispenser 8 comprises at least a second pipe 10 and at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 housed inside the washing machine 1. Said machine less than a second pipe 10 and said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of the detergent dispenser 8 are connected to each other.
  • the detergent dispenser 8 also comprises a detergent dosing pump 17.
  • the auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 and the detergent dispenser 8 may be adapted to work together or independently according to the orders given by the control means 15 of the washing machine 1 so as to implement the different operating cycles of said machine 1.
  • the liquid detergent tank 11 is formed against the front wall 2a of the body 2 of the machine 1.
  • the liquid detergent tank 11 comprises an access opening 12, closed by a hatch 13 independent of the access door 6 to the tank 3 and the drum 4, opening for example to the through an opening 14 of the front wall 2a of the bodywork 2 of the machine 1.
  • the access opening 12 and the hatch 13 are arranged through the front wall 2a of the body 2 so as to be accessible to the user from outside the machine. without having to open and / or remove any part of the machine 1.
  • the liquid detergent reservoir 11 has a capacity sufficient to contain one or more liters of liquid or semi-liquid detergent.
  • the user can fill the liquid detergent reservoir 11 for several cycles of operation of the machine 1.
  • the volume of the liquid detergent reservoir 11 may substantially correspond to the conventional volume of commercially available liquid or semi-liquid detergent containers.
  • the detergent dispenser 8 may comprise a liquid product pumping chamber in communication with a liquid product reservoir 11, a hydraulic pressure chamber connected to water inlet means and a detergent delivery pump 17 having a piston mounted in translation between the hydraulic pressure chamber and the liquid product pumping chamber.
  • the detergent dispenser 8 need not be further described here.
  • the control means 15 of the machine 1 comprise at least one microcontroller (not shown).
  • the microcontroller is preferably mounted on an electronic control card of the washing machine 1. This microcontroller is adapted to unwind, in particular, the steps of a processing algorithm for automatically cleaning at least one tank of liquid detergent 11. a detergent dispenser 8 following acquisition of an input signal adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one liquid detergent tank 11.
  • the microcontroller of the control means 15 of the machine 1 is adapted to communicate with said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 and said at least one drain pump 18.
  • this microcontroller of the washing machine 1 is adapted to implement the cleaning method according to the invention.
  • the method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of a detergent dispenser 8 of a washing machine 1 makes it possible to drain a liquid product contained within said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 in the tank 3 and then to evacuate this liquid product from said tank 3 to the wastewater outlet 20.
  • Cleaning said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 can thus be programmed and implemented by the control means 15 of the washing machine 1 actuating said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 and the drain pump 18.
  • This method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of a detergent dispenser 8 of a washing machine 1 makes it possible to avoid spilling detergent on the floor and to simplify the operations to be carried out by the user .
  • this method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of a detergent dispenser 8 of a washing machine 1 makes it possible to use the conventional members of a washing machine 1 comprising a detergent dispensing automatic without the use of additional means causing additional cost to obtain the washing machine 1.
  • the domestic washing machine 1 is connected to the electrical network before starting a cleaning cycle of at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of a detergent dispenser 8 by means of an electrical cord.
  • the step of acquiring an input signal E1 adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 is acquired by one or more presses on an acquisition key or by one or more supports on a combination of the control means 15 of the machine 1.
  • said emptying step E2 of a liquid product contained in said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 to the tank 3 by said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 is implemented during a predetermined period T.
  • said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 is drained by said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 for a predetermined period T either according to parameters set at the factory, or according to parameters set by the user, or as a function of detection means, such as for example a sensor associated with a microcontroller of the control means 15 of the machine 1, adapted to determine the operating time of said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.
  • the predetermined period of operation of said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 during the emptying step E2 of a liquid product contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 to the tank 3 may be of the order 15 minutes.
  • this value of the predetermined operating period T of said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 during the emptying step E2 is in no way limiting and can be adapted according to the washing machine 1, and more particularly depending on said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.
  • the duration of the emptying step E2 of a liquid product contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 to the tank 3 can be visualized by means of a display 15e installed at the control means 15 of the machine. 1.
  • This display 15e can be used to display the time remaining following the step of acquiring an input signal E1, as shown in FIG. figure 3 .
  • the display 15e of the control means 15 of the washing machine 1 can be used to display the follow-up of the emptying step E2 of a liquid product contained in the at least one tank liquid detergent 11 to the tank 3 depending on the level of liquid product remaining from data collected by a sensor, which may be for example a mass sensor, and communicated to a microcontroller of said control means 15 of said washing machine 1 .
  • a sensor which may be for example a mass sensor
  • said steps of acquiring an input signal E1, emptying a liquid product E2 and evacuating said liquid product E3 can be repeated until the said at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 has been completely emptied.
  • said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 is drained by a succession of steps of acquiring an input signal E1, emptying a liquid product E2 and evacuation of said liquid product E3.
  • This repetition of the steps of acquisition of an input signal E1, emptying of a liquid product E2 and evacuation of said liquid product E3 can be controlled by the user through the control means 15 of the washing machine 1.
  • the step of emptying a liquid product E2 can thus have a fixed period T suitable for draining a predetermined quantity of liquid product from said at least one liquid detergent tank 11.
  • the steps of acquiring an input signal E1, emptying a liquid product E2 and evacuating said liquid product E3 are repeated as many times as necessary. .
  • liquid product drained from said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 is diluted and can be introduced more easily into the tank 3.
  • This liquid product mixed with water therefore has a lower viscosity and flows more easily in the tank 3 and limits the fouling of the tank 3.
  • the liquid product contained in said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 may be mixed with water either in said at least one liquid detergent tank 11, or in said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17, or in said at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 and in said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.
  • the detergent dispensing pump 17 is operated by means of a solenoid valve.
  • the solenoid valve is in the open position for a predetermined period, for example of the order of three seconds, so as to move a piston of the detergent dispensing pump 17.
  • This piston of the detergent dispensing pump 17 makes it possible to drive the liquid product of the liquid detergent reservoir 11, and for example an amount of the order of 15 ml.
  • This liquid product may contain detergent and water.
  • the method comprises a rinsing step E4 of the tank 3, preferably carried out after the step of evacuating the liquid product E3 from said tank 3 to the wastewater evacuation network 20 by the drain pump 18 .
  • this rinsing step E4 of the tank 3 makes it possible to clean said tank 3 following the emptying of the liquid product contained in the said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11.
  • the tank 3 is cleaned with water from the network so as to remove the detergent residues by means of a flow of water inside the tank 3.
  • Such an E4 rinsing step is thus economical while guaranteeing a cleaning performance of the vessel 3.
  • the rinsing step E4 may also comprise a step of mixing the water introduced into the tank 3 by rotating the drum 4 so as to improve the rinsing performance of the machine. tank 3.
  • the method comprises a step of introducing water E0 into said at least one reservoir of liquid detergent 11 before the step of acquiring an input signal E1 adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one reservoir of liquid detergent 11.
  • said at least one detergent tank 11 is filled with water before starting a cleaning cycle carried out by the domestic washing machine 1.
  • said at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 and said at least one detergent delivery pump 17 are cleaned by the flow of water and detergent residues are removed and drained into the vessel 3.
  • the water filling of said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 makes it possible to dilute the liquid detergent remaining in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 and to avoid rejecting liquid detergent not mixed with water in the liquid network. discharge of wastewater 20 so as to avoid clogging said wastewater discharge network 20 and protect the environment.
  • the step of introducing water E0 into said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 may be useful, especially in the case where little detergent is present in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11.
  • the detergent remaining in said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 is more easily discharged to the tank 3 by said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 since the liquid product consisting of detergent and water is of reduced viscosity by compared to that of the detergent.
  • the step of introducing water E0 into said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 also makes it possible to participate in cleaning said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.
  • a stopping step E5 of the cleaning process of at least one liquid detergent tank 11 can be carried out at any time.
  • the cleaning method can be interrupted at any time by the user through the control means 15 and / or by a microcontroller of the control means 15 of the washing machine 1 so as to ensure the safety of the user and / or the machine 1, or to cancel the process following a control error.

Description

La présente invention concerne un procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent d'une machine à laver domestique.The present invention relates to a method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a domestic washing machine.

Elle concerne également une machine à laver domestique comprenant au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent associé à des moyens de commande de ladite machine et un microprocesseur.It also relates to a domestic washing machine comprising at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser associated with control means of said machine and a microprocessor.

En particulier, elle trouve son application dans les lave-linge et les lave-vaisselle domestiques.In particular, it finds its application in domestic washing machines and dishwashers.

Elle s'applique plus particulièrement à la distribution de détergent liquide ou semi-liquide (du type gel) dans le domaine des appareils de lavage domestiques.It applies more particularly to the distribution of liquid or semi-liquid detergent (gel type) in the field of household washing machines.

De manière générale, la présente invention concerne le nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent d'une machine à laver domestique.In general, the present invention relates to cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a domestic washing machine.

On connaît déjà des machines à laver le linge comprenant un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent.Washing machines are already known comprising a liquid detergent reservoir of a detergent dispenser.

Cependant, ces machines à laver le linge présentent l'inconvénient de disposer uniquement d'une vidange manuelle.However, these washing machines have the disadvantage of having only a manual drain.

Par conséquent, l'utilisateur est obligé de démonter un bouchon de fermeture du réservoir de détergent et de laisser s'écouler le détergent par une ouverture étant obturée par ledit bouchon.Therefore, the user is obliged to disassemble a closure cap of the detergent tank and let the detergent flow through an opening being closed by said plug.

Par ailleurs, lors du démontage du bouchon se trouvant en partie basse du réservoir de détergent, le détergent commence à couler avant même que le bouchon soit complètement retiré. Alors, l'utilisateur se retrouve avec du détergent sur les mains lors de cette opération de vidange.Furthermore, during the disassembly of the plug located in the lower part of the detergent tank, the detergent begins to flow even before the cap is completely removed. Then, the user is left with detergent on the hands during this emptying operation.

En outre, l'utilisateur doit prévoir un récipient suffisamment volumineux pour accueillir la quantité de détergent restante dans le réservoir et placer ce récipient sous l'ouverture obturée par le bouchon.In addition, the user must provide a sufficiently large container to accommodate the amount of detergent remaining in the tank and place this container under the opening closed by the cap.

Ces manipulations sont peu aisées et déplaisantes à réaliser par l'utilisateur pour vidanger le réservoir de détergent.These manipulations are not easy and unpleasant to perform by the user to drain the detergent tank.

DE 3 704 080 divulgue un procédé et une machine de lavage comme décrit dans la préambule de la revendication 1 et 10. DE 3 704 080 discloses a method and a washing machine as described in the preamble of claim 1 and 10.

On connaît également le document DE 10 2005 012 425 A1 qui décrit une machine de lavage comprenant une chambre de stockage d'adoucissant dans laquelle de l'eau est introduite de manière intermittente de sorte à évacuer l'adoucissant en le mélangeant à de l'eau. Cette chambre de stockage correspond à un distributeur de détergent comprenant de l'adoucissant pour alimenter un bain à différentes périodes d'un cycle de lavage d'une machine à laver.The document is also known DE 10 2005 012 425 A1 which describes a washing machine comprising a softener storage chamber in which water is introduced intermittently so as to evacuate the softener by mixing it with water. This storage chamber corresponds to a detergent dispenser comprising softener for supplying a bath at different periods of a washing cycle of a washing machine.

On connaît également le document WO 2007 073012 A1 décrit un procédé de lavage d'une cuve de lavage comprenant une étape de retrait du détergent depuis la cuve de lavage pour empêcher au détergent en poudre de former de la mousse. Les phases correspondant à l'étape de retrait de détergent de la cuve de lavage sont réalisées avant la mise en oeuvre du cycle de lavage de sorte à éviter une contamination avec le détergent en poudre utilisé précédemment.The document is also known WO 2007 073012 A1 discloses a method of washing a wash tub comprising a step of removing the detergent from the wash tub to prevent the powdered detergent from forming foam. The phases corresponding to the detergent removal step of the wash tub are performed prior to the operation of the wash cycle so as to avoid contamination with the previously used powder detergent.

La présente invention a pour but de résoudre les inconvénients précités et de proposer une machine à laver et un procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent d'une machine à laver permettant de nettoyer ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide de manière automatisée par au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent et une pompe de vidange de la cuve.The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned drawbacks and to provide a washing machine and a method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine for cleaning said at least one a reservoir of liquid detergent automatically by at least one detergent dispensing pump and a pump for emptying the tank.

A cet égard, la présente invention vise, selon un premier aspect, un procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent d'une machine à laver, ladite machine à laver comprenant une cuve remplie en liquide à partir d'une prise d'arrivée en eau, des moyens de commande d'un cycle de fonctionnement de ladite machine, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide étant adapté à contenir une pluralité de doses d'au moins un détergent, ledit distributeur de détergent comprenant au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide étant relié à ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent, ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent étant reliée à ladite cuve, et ladite cuve étant reliée à un réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée par au moins une pompe de vidange.In this regard, the present invention aims, in a first aspect, a method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine, said washing machine comprising a tank filled with liquid from a water intake, means for controlling an operating cycle of said machine, said at least one liquid detergent tank being adapted to contain a plurality of doses of at least one detergent, said detergent dispenser comprising at least one detergent dispensing pump, said at least one liquid detergent reservoir being connected to said at least one detergent dispensing pump, said at least one detergent dispensing pump being connected to said tank, and said tank being connected to a wastewater discharge network by at least one drain pump.

Selon l'invention, ledit procédé comprend au moins les étapes suivantes :

  • acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1 adapté à commander le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide ;
  • vidange d'un produit liquide E2 contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide vers ladite cuve par ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent ; et
  • évacuation dudit produit liquide E3 de ladite cuve vers ledit réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée par ladite pompe de vidange.
According to the invention, said method comprises at least the following steps:
  • acquisition of an input signal E1 adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one tank of liquid detergent;
  • draining a liquid product E2 contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent to said tank by said at least one detergent dispensing pump; and
  • evacuation of said liquid product E3 from said tank to said waste water discharge network by said drain pump.

Ainsi, le procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent d'une machine à laver permet de vidanger un produit liquide contenu à l'intérieur dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide dans la cuve puis d'évacuer ce produit liquide de ladite cuve vers le réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée.Thus, the method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine makes it possible to drain a liquid product contained inside said at least one tank of liquid detergent into the tank and then to evacuate this liquid product from said tank to the wastewater discharge network.

Le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide peut ainsi être programmé et mis en oeuvre par les moyens de commande de la machine à laver actionnant ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent et la pompe de vidange.The cleaning of said at least one liquid detergent tank can thus be programmed and implemented by the control means of the washing machine actuating said at least one detergent dispensing pump and the drain pump.

De cette manière, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide peut être nettoyé de façon automatisée par la machine à laver, notamment, lorsque l'utilisateur souhaite vider celui-ci :

  • avant une période prolongée de non utilisation de la machine à laver,
  • avant un déplacement de ladite machine à laver,
  • avant un changement de détergent sans mélanger le détergent présent dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide avec un autre détergent.
In this way, said at least one tank of liquid detergent may be cleaned automatically by the washing machine, in particular when the user wish to empty this one:
  • before an extended period of non-use of the washing machine,
  • before a movement of said washing machine,
  • before a change of detergent without mixing the detergent present in said at least one liquid detergent tank with another detergent.

Ce procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent d'une machine à laver permet d'éviter de renverser du détergent sur le sol et de simplifier les opérations à réaliser par l'utilisateur.This method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine avoids spilling detergent on the floor and simplifying the operations to be performed by the user.

Par ailleurs, ce procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent d'une machine à laver permet d'utiliser les organes classiques d'une machine à laver comprenant une distribution de détergent automatique sans avoir recours à des moyens additionnels provoquant un surcoût pour l'obtention de la machine à laver.Furthermore, this method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine makes it possible to use the conventional organs of a washing machine comprising an automatic detergent dispensing without having recourse to additional means causing additional cost for obtaining the washing machine.

Selon une caractéristique préférée de l'invention, au cours de l'étape de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide vers ladite cuve par ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent, ledit produit liquide est mélangé avec de l'eau du réseau.According to a preferred feature of the invention, during the step of emptying a liquid product E2 contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent to said tank by said at least one detergent dispensing pump, said liquid product is mixed with water from the network.

Ainsi, le produit liquide vidangé dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide est dilué et peut être introduit plus aisément dans la cuve. Ce produit liquide mélangé avec de l'eau a par conséquent une viscosité plus faible et s'écoule plus facilement dans la cuve et permet de limiter l'encrassement de la cuve.Thus, the liquid product drained from the at least one liquid detergent tank is diluted and can be introduced more easily into the tank. This liquid product mixed with water therefore has a lower viscosity and flows more easily into the tank and limits the fouling of the tank.

Selon une autre caractéristique préférée de l'invention, ledit procédé comprend une étape de rinçage E4 de ladite cuve mise en oeuvre après ladite étape d'évacuation dudit produit liquide E3 de ladite cuve vers ledit réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée par ladite pompe de vidange.According to another preferred feature of the invention, said method comprises a rinsing step E4 of said tank carried out after said step of evacuation of said liquid product E3 from said tank to said draining network of waste water by said pump emptying.

Ainsi, cette étape de rinçage E4 de la cuve permet de nettoyer ladite cuve suite à la vidange du produit liquide contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide.Thus, this rinsing step E4 of the tank makes it possible to clean said tank following the emptying of the liquid product contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent.

De cette manière, les cycles de fonctionnement suivants de la machine à laver domestique sont mis en oeuvre dans une cuve nettoyée et dégagée de résidus de détergent pouvant dégrader les performances de ladite machine à laver.In this way, the following operating cycles of the domestic washing machine are implemented in a cleaned tank and free of detergent residues that can degrade the performance of said washing machine.

Préférentiellement, ledit procédé comprend une étape d'introduction d'eau E0 dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide avant ladite étape d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1 adapté à commander le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide.Preferably, said method comprises a step of introducing water E0 into said at least one reservoir of liquid detergent before said step of acquiring an input signal E1 adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one reservoir of liquid detergent .

Ainsi, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide est rempli en eau avant le démarrage d'un cycle de nettoyage mis en oeuvre par la machine à laver domestique.Thus, said at least one tank of liquid detergent is filled with water before starting a cleaning cycle carried out by the domestic washing machine.

De cette manière, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide et ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent sont nettoyés par l'écoulement d'eau et des résidus de détergent sont retirés et vidangés dans la cuve.In this manner, said at least one liquid detergent reservoir and said at least one detergent dispensing pump are cleaned by the flow of water and detergent residues are removed and drained into the vessel.

Le remplissage en eau dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide permet de diluer le détergent liquide restant dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide et d'éviter de rejeter du détergent liquide non mélangé avec de l'eau dans le réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée de sorte à éviter de colmater ledit réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée et à protéger l'environnement.The water filling of said at least one liquid detergent tank serves to dilute the liquid detergent remaining in said at least one tank of liquid detergent and to avoid rejecting liquid detergent not mixed with water in the evacuation network. wastewater so as to avoid clogging said wastewater disposal network and protecting the environment.

Selon un second aspect, la présente invention concerne une machine à laver domestique, du type lave-linge ou lave-vaisselle, comprenant une cuve remplie en liquide à partir d'une prise d'arrivée en eau, des moyens de commande d'un cycle de fonctionnement de ladite machine, au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent étant adapté à contenir une pluralité de doses d'au moins un détergent, ledit distributeur de détergent comprenant au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide étant relié à ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent, ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent étant reliée à ladite cuve, et ladite cuve étant reliée à un réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée par au moins une pompe de vidange, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide dudit distributeur de détergent étant associé à des moyens de commande de ladite machine.According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a domestic washing machine, of the washing machine or dishwasher type, comprising a tank filled with liquid from a water intake, control means of a operating cycle of said machine, at least one liquid detergent reservoir of a detergent dispenser being adapted to contain a plurality of doses of at least one detergent, said detergent dispenser comprising at least one detergent dispensing pump, said at least one liquid detergent tank being connected to said at least one detergent dispensing pump, said at least one detergent dispensing pump being connected to said tank, and said tank being connected to a waste water disposal network by at least one drain pump, said at least one liquid detergent tank of said detergent dispenser being associated with control means of said machine.

Selon l'invention, ladite machine comprend :

  • au moins une touche d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée adapté à commander le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide ;
  • où ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent vidange un produit liquide contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide vers ladite cuve ; et
  • où ladite pompe de vidange évacue ledit produit liquide de ladite cuve vers ledit réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée.
According to the invention, said machine comprises:
  • at least one acquisition key of an input signal adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one tank of liquid detergent;
  • wherein said at least one detergent delivery pump discharges a liquid product contained in said at least one liquid detergent reservoir to said vessel; and
  • wherein said drain pump discharges said liquid product from said tank to said waste water discharge network.

Cette machine à laver domestique présente des avantages analogues à ceux décrits précédemment en référence au procédé de nettoyage selon l'invention.This domestic washing machine has advantages similar to those described above with reference to the cleaning method according to the invention.

D'autres particularités et avantages apparaîtront encore dans la description ci-après.Other features and advantages will become apparent in the description below.

Aux dessins annexés, donnés à titres d'exemples non limitatifs :

  • ∘ la figure 1 est une vue schématique en coupe illustrant une machine à laver le linge selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
  • ∘ la figure 2 est un algorithme illustrant un mode de réalisation du procédé de nettoyage conforme à l'invention ; et
  • ∘ la figure 3 est une vue simplifiée des moyens de commande d'une machine à laver le linge selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention.
In the accompanying drawings, given as non-limiting examples:
  • ∘ figure 1 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a washing machine according to one embodiment of the invention;
  • ∘ figure 2 is an algorithm illustrating an embodiment of the cleaning method according to the invention; and
  • ∘ figure 3 is a simplified view of the control means of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the invention.

On va décrire tout d'abord en référence à la figure 1 une machine à laver le linge adaptée à mettre en oeuvre la présente invention.We will first describe with reference to the figure 1 a washing machine adapted to implement the present invention.

On notera que l'utilisation du procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide d'un distributeur de détergent conforme à l'invention n'est pas limitée à l'application dans un lave-linge, mais peut être appliquée dans tout type d'appareil de lavage, et notamment dans un lave-vaisselle ou une lavante-séchante.It should be noted that the use of the method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank of a detergent dispenser according to the invention is not limited to the application in a washing machine, but can be applied in any type of washing apparatus, and in particular in a dishwasher or a washer-dryer.

On a illustré sur ce mode de réalisation une machine à chargement par le dessus. Bien entendu, la présente invention s'applique à tous les types de machine à laver, et notamment à chargement frontal.In this embodiment, an overhead loading machine has been illustrated. Of course, the present invention applies to all types of washing machine, including front-loading.

De manière classique, une telle machine à laver le linge 1 comprend une carrosserie 2 adaptée à loger une cuve de lavage 3 dans laquelle est monté en rotation un tambour 4 destiné à contenir le linge.Conventionally, such a washing machine 1 comprises a body 2 adapted to house a washing tub 3 in which is rotatably mounted a drum 4 for containing the laundry.

La carrosserie 2 comporte dans ce mode de réalisation une ouverture supérieure 5 permettant d'introduire et de retirer le linge dans le tambour 4.The body 2 comprises in this embodiment an upper opening 5 for introducing and removing the laundry in the drum 4.

Cette ouverture d'accès 5 peut être obturée lors du fonctionnement de la machine 1 par une porte 6 montée pivotante sur la carrosserie 2 de la machine 1.This access opening 5 can be closed during operation of the machine 1 by a door 6 pivotally mounted on the body 2 of the machine 1.

Un tableau de commande 15 est également prévu en partie supérieure de la machine 1.A control panel 15 is also provided in the upper part of the machine 1.

Dans un mode de réalisation, la machine à laver le linge 1 comprend un dispositif de régulation de niveau d'eau (non représenté).In one embodiment, the laundry machine 1 comprises a water level regulator (not shown).

Ce dispositif de régulation d'eau peut être, de manière connu, constitué d'un pressostat à air dont la chambre de compression, en cloche, est disposée dans la cuve 3 de la machine 1.This water regulating device can be, in known manner, constituted by an air pressure switch whose bell-shaped compression chamber is disposed in the tank 3 of the machine 1.

La membrane du pressostat qui se déplace sous l'effet des variations de pression relative à l'atmosphère agit avec un contact électrique qui donne le signal de niveau atteint, à l'automatisme.The membrane of the pressure switch that moves under the effect of pressure variations relative to the atmosphere acts with an electrical contact that gives the level signal reached, the automation.

La machine à laver le linge 1 comporte par ailleurs une pompe de vidange 18 permettant de renouveler le liquide au fond de cuve 3.The washing machine 1 also comprises a drain pump 18 for renewing the liquid at the bottom of the tank 3.

La partie inférieure de la cuve 3 peut comporter une pompe de recyclage munie d'une canalisation de guidage d'eau refoulée par le palier du tambour 4 et une pompe de vidange 18 reliée à une conduite d'évacuation 19.The lower part of the tank 3 may comprise a recycling pump provided with a water guiding pipe discharged by the bearing of the drum 4 and a drain pump 18 connected to a discharge pipe 19.

Des filtres et micro - filtres peuvent permettre de recycler l'eau propre pour alimenter en circuit fermé le tambour 4 de manière à économiser le volume d'eau introduit depuis l'extérieur.Filters and microfilters can recycle clean water to supply the drum 4 in a closed circuit so as to save the volume of water introduced from the outside.

Bien entendu, cette machine à laver le linge 1 comporte tous les organes nécessaires (non représentés) au fonctionnement et à l'exécution des cycles de lavage, de rinçage et d'essorage du linge.Of course, this washing machine 1 has all the organs necessary (not shown) for the operation and execution of the washing, washing and drying cycles of the laundry.

La machine à laver le linge 1 comprend une cuve 2 remplie en liquide à partir d'une prise d'arrivée en eau (non représentée), un tambour rotatif 4 de chargement du linge logé à l'intérieur de ladite cuve 3 et des moyens de commande 15 d'un programme de lavage du linge.The washing machine 1 comprises a tank 2 filled with liquid from a water intake (not shown), a rotating laundry drum 4 housed inside said tank 3 and means control of a laundry program.

Conformément à l'invention, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 est adapté à contenir une pluralité de doses d'au moins un détergent.According to the invention, said at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 is adapted to contain a plurality of doses of at least one detergent.

Le distributeur de détergent 8 comprend au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17.The detergent dispenser 8 comprises at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.

Ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 est relié à ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17.Said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 is connected to said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.

Ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 est reliée à la cuve 3, en particulier, par une conduite 9.Said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 is connected to the tank 3, in particular via a pipe 9.

Et la cuve 3 est reliée à un réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée 20 par au moins une pompe de vidange 18. La liaison entre ladite au moins une pompe de vidange 18 et le réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée 20 est réalisée par une conduite 19.And the tank 3 is connected to a waste water discharge network 20 by at least one drain pump 18. The connection between the at least one drain pump 18 and the waste water discharge network 20 is achieved by a pipe 19.

Dans ce mode de réalisation de l'invention illustré à la figure 1, et de manière nullement limitative, un distributeur de détergent auxiliaire 7 est disposé sur une paroi interne 6a de la porte 6 obturant une ouverture d'accès supérieure 5. Ce distributeur de détergent auxiliaire 7 est ainsi face au tambour 4 et logé à l'intérieur d'un évidement ménagé dans la cuve 2.In this embodiment of the invention illustrated in figure 1 , and in no way limiting, an auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 is disposed on an inner wall 6a of the door 6 closing an upper access opening 5. This auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 is thus facing the drum 4 and housed in the inside a recess in the tank 2.

Le distributeur de détergent auxiliaire 7 est adapté à distribuer une dose unique d'au moins un détergent utilisée lors des phases de lavage du linge.The auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 is adapted to dispense a single dose of at least one detergent used during the washing phases of the laundry.

Le distributeur de détergent auxiliaire 7 est un distributeur de détergent classique permettant d'alimenter en produits lessiviels une machine à laver le linge pour un cycle de fonctionnement. Ce type de distributeur de détergent est bien connu de l'homme du métier.The auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 is a conventional detergent dispenser for supplying laundry detergents to a laundry machine for an operating cycle. This type of detergent dispenser is well known to those skilled in the art.

Le distributeur de détergent auxiliaire 7 peut comprendre plusieurs compartiments, généralement au nombre de trois. Chaque compartiment est adapté à recevoir un type de produit, par exemple, respectivement du détergent en poudre, du détergent liquide, de l'assouplissant, de la javel, etc.The auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 can comprise several compartments, generally three in number. Each compartment is adapted to receive a type of product, for example, detergent powder, liquid detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., respectively.

Le distributeur de détergent 8 est disposé en partie inférieure de la machine à laver le linge 1, à proximité de la paroi avant 2a de la carrosserie 2 de la machine 1, soit à proximité de la façade de la machine 1.The detergent dispenser 8 is disposed in the lower part of the washing machine 1, close to the front wall 2a of the body 2 of the machine 1, or close to the front of the machine 1.

Le distributeur de détergent 8 est adapté à distribuer une ou plusieurs doses de détergent utilisées lors des phases de lavage du linge.The detergent dispenser 8 is adapted to dispense one or more doses of detergent used during the washing phases of the laundry.

A cet effet, ce distributeur de détergent 8 est relié par une conduite 9 à la cuve de lavage 3 permettant l'introduction d'une ou plusieurs doses de détergent dans le fond de la cuve 3.For this purpose, this detergent dispenser 8 is connected by a line 9 to the washing tub 3 allowing the introduction of one or more doses of detergent into the bottom of the tank 3.

Par ailleurs, afin d'alimenter en détergent le distributeur de détergent 8, celui-ci comprend au moins une seconde conduite 10 et au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 logé à l'intérieur de la machine à laver le linge 1. Ladite au moins une seconde conduite 10 et ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 du distributeur de détergent 8 sont reliés entre eux.Furthermore, in order to supply the detergent dispenser 8 with detergent, it comprises at least a second pipe 10 and at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 housed inside the washing machine 1. Said machine less than a second pipe 10 and said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of the detergent dispenser 8 are connected to each other.

Le distributeur de détergent 8 comprend également une pompe de dosage de détergent 17.The detergent dispenser 8 also comprises a detergent dosing pump 17.

Le distributeur de détergent auxiliaire 7 et le distributeur de détergent 8 peuvent être adaptés à fonctionner ensemble ou indépendamment en fonction des ordres donnés par les moyens de commande 15 de la machine à laver 1 de sorte à mettre en oeuvre les différents cycles de fonctionnement de ladite machine 1.The auxiliary detergent dispenser 7 and the detergent dispenser 8 may be adapted to work together or independently according to the orders given by the control means 15 of the washing machine 1 so as to implement the different operating cycles of said machine 1.

Dans ce mode de réalisation de l'invention illustré à la figure 1, et de manière nullement limitative, le réservoir de détergent liquide 11 est formé contre la paroi avant 2a de la carrosserie 2 de la machine 1.In this embodiment of the invention illustrated in figure 1 , and in no way limiting, the liquid detergent tank 11 is formed against the front wall 2a of the body 2 of the machine 1.

Afin de permettre son remplissage par l'utilisateur, le réservoir de détergent liquide 11 comporte une ouverture d'accès 12, obturée par une trappe 13 indépendante de la porte d'accès 6 à la cuve 3 et au tambour 4, débouchant par exemple au travers d'une ouverture 14 de la paroi avant 2a de la carrosserie 2 de la machine 1.In order to allow its filling by the user, the liquid detergent tank 11 comprises an access opening 12, closed by a hatch 13 independent of the access door 6 to the tank 3 and the drum 4, opening for example to the through an opening 14 of the front wall 2a of the bodywork 2 of the machine 1.

Dans ce mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'ouverture d'accès 12 et la trappe 13 sont disposés au travers de la paroi avant 2a de la carrosserie 2 de manière à être accessibles à l'utilisateur depuis l'extérieur de la machine sans avoir à ouvrir et/ou à retirer un quelconque élément de la machine 1.In this embodiment of the invention, the access opening 12 and the hatch 13 are arranged through the front wall 2a of the body 2 so as to be accessible to the user from outside the machine. without having to open and / or remove any part of the machine 1.

Bien entendu, l'accès au réservoir de détergent liquide 11, permettant son remplissage par l'utilisateur, pourrait être réalisé à tout autre endroit de la carrosserie 2.Of course, access to the tank of liquid detergent 11, allowing its filling by the user, could be achieved at any other location of the body 2.

De préférence, le réservoir de détergent liquide 11 présente une contenance suffisante pour contenir un ou plusieurs litres de détergent liquide ou semi-liquide.Preferably, the liquid detergent reservoir 11 has a capacity sufficient to contain one or more liters of liquid or semi-liquid detergent.

Ainsi, l'utilisateur peut remplir le réservoir de détergent liquide 11 pour plusieurs cycles de fonctionnement de la machine 1.Thus, the user can fill the liquid detergent reservoir 11 for several cycles of operation of the machine 1.

De préférence, le volume du réservoir de détergent liquide 11 peut correspondre sensiblement au volume classique des bidons de détergent liquide ou semi-liquide disponibles dans le commerce.Preferably, the volume of the liquid detergent reservoir 11 may substantially correspond to the conventional volume of commercially available liquid or semi-liquid detergent containers.

Dans un mode de réalisation, le distributeur de détergent 8 peut comprendre une chambre de pompage de produit liquide en communication avec un réservoir de produit liquide 11, une chambre de pression hydraulique reliée à des moyens d'arrivée d'eau et une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 ayant un piston monté en translation entre la chambre de pression hydraulique et la chambre de pompage de produit liquide.In one embodiment, the detergent dispenser 8 may comprise a liquid product pumping chamber in communication with a liquid product reservoir 11, a hydraulic pressure chamber connected to water inlet means and a detergent delivery pump 17 having a piston mounted in translation between the hydraulic pressure chamber and the liquid product pumping chamber.

La distributeur de détergent 8 n'a pas besoin d'être décrit plus en détail ici.The detergent dispenser 8 need not be further described here.

Les moyens de commande 15 de la machine 1 comprennent au moins un microcontrôleur (non représenté).The control means 15 of the machine 1 comprise at least one microcontroller (not shown).

Le microcontrôleur est préférentiellement monté sur une carte électronique de contrôle de la machine à laver le linge 1. Ce microcontrôleur est adapté à dérouler, notamment, les étapes d'un algorithme de traitement permettant de nettoyer automatiquement au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 d'un distributeur de détergent 8 suite à l'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée adapté à commander le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11.The microcontroller is preferably mounted on an electronic control card of the washing machine 1. This microcontroller is adapted to unwind, in particular, the steps of a processing algorithm for automatically cleaning at least one tank of liquid detergent 11. a detergent dispenser 8 following acquisition of an input signal adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one liquid detergent tank 11.

Le microcontrôleur des moyens de commande 15 de la machine 1 est adapté à communiquer avec ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 et ladite au moins une pompe de vidange 18.The microcontroller of the control means 15 of the machine 1 is adapted to communicate with said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 and said at least one drain pump 18.

Ainsi, ce microcontrôleur de la machine à laver le linge 1 est adapté à mettre en oeuvre le procédé de nettoyage conforme à l'invention.Thus, this microcontroller of the washing machine 1 is adapted to implement the cleaning method according to the invention.

On va décrire à présent, en référence à la figure 2, le procédé de nettoyage mis en oeuvre dans une machine à laver telle que décrite précédemment.We will now describe, with reference to the figure 2 , the cleaning method used in a washing machine as described above.

Le procédé de nettoyage comprend au moins les étapes suivantes :

  • acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1 adapté à commander le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 ;
  • vidange d'un produit liquide E2 contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 vers la cuve 3 par ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 ; et
  • évacuation du produit liquide E3 de la cuve 3 vers le réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée 20 par la pompe de vidange 18.
The cleaning method comprises at least the following steps:
  • acquisition of an input signal E1 adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11;
  • draining a liquid product E2 contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 to the tank 3 by said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17; and
  • evacuation of the liquid product E3 from the tank 3 to the wastewater outlet 20 by the drain pump 18.

Ainsi, le procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 d'un distributeur de détergent 8 d'une machine à laver 1 permet de vidanger un produit liquide contenu à l'intérieur dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 dans la cuve 3 puis d'évacuer ce produit liquide de ladite cuve 3 vers le réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée 20.Thus, the method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of a detergent dispenser 8 of a washing machine 1 makes it possible to drain a liquid product contained within said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 in the tank 3 and then to evacuate this liquid product from said tank 3 to the wastewater outlet 20.

Le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 peut ainsi être programmé et mis en oeuvre par les moyens de commande 15 de la machine à laver 1 actionnant ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 et la pompe de vidange 18.Cleaning said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 can thus be programmed and implemented by the control means 15 of the washing machine 1 actuating said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 and the drain pump 18.

De cette manière, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 peut être nettoyé de façon automatisée par la machine à laver 1, notamment, lorsque l'utilisateur souhaite vider celui-ci :

  • avant une période prolongée de non utilisation de la machine à laver 1,
  • avant un déplacement de ladite machine à laver 1,
  • avant un changement de détergent sans mélanger le détergent présent dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 17 avec un autre détergent.
In this way, said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 can be cleaned automatically by the washing machine 1, in particular when the user wish to empty this one:
  • before an extended period of non-use of the washing machine 1,
  • before a movement of said washing machine 1,
  • before a change of detergent without mixing the detergent present in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 17 with another detergent.

Ce procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 d'un distributeur de détergent 8 d'une machine à laver 1 permet d'éviter de renverser du détergent sur le sol et de simplifier les opérations à réaliser par l'utilisateur.This method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of a detergent dispenser 8 of a washing machine 1 makes it possible to avoid spilling detergent on the floor and to simplify the operations to be carried out by the user .

Par ailleurs, ce procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 d'un distributeur de détergent 8 d'une machine à laver 1 permet d'utiliser les organes classiques d'une machine à laver 1 comprenant une distribution de détergent automatique sans avoir recours à des moyens additionnels provoquant un surcoût pour l'obtention de la machine à laver 1.Furthermore, this method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of a detergent dispenser 8 of a washing machine 1 makes it possible to use the conventional members of a washing machine 1 comprising a detergent dispensing automatic without the use of additional means causing additional cost to obtain the washing machine 1.

Bien entendu, la machine à laver domestique 1 est branchée au réseau électrique avant le démarrage d'un cycle de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 d'un distributeur de détergent 8 au moyen d'un cordon électrique.Of course, the domestic washing machine 1 is connected to the electrical network before starting a cleaning cycle of at least one liquid detergent tank 11 of a detergent dispenser 8 by means of an electrical cord.

L'étape d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1 adapté à commander le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 est acquise par un ou plusieurs appuis sur une touche d'acquisition ou par un ou plusieurs appuis sur une combinaison de touches des moyens de commande 15 de la machine 1.The step of acquiring an input signal E1 adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 is acquired by one or more presses on an acquisition key or by one or more supports on a combination of the control means 15 of the machine 1.

Par exemple, en référence à la figure 3, l'étape d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1 adapté à commander le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 est acquise en réalisant la combinaison d'appuis suivants :

  • appui simultané sur une touche de sélection de la température 15a et sur une touche de sélection de la vitesse d'essorage 15b des moyens de commande 15 d'une machine à laver le linge 1 de sorte à rentrer dans un mode de réglage du distributeur de détergent 8 pouvant être visualisé au moyen d'un afficheur ; puis
  • appui simultané sur une touche de sélection d'un niveau de salissure dit « Quotidien » 15c et sur une touche de sélection d'un niveau de salissure dit « Intensif » 15d de sorte à commander le démarrage d'un cycle de nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11.
For example, with reference to figure 3 , the step of acquiring an input signal E1 adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 is acquired by performing the following combination of supports:
  • simultaneous pressing on a temperature selection key 15a and on a spin speed selection key 15b of the control means 15 of a washing machine 1 so as to enter a control mode of the dispenser of detergent 8 which can be visualized by means of a display; then
  • simultaneous pressing on a selection key of a so-called "Daily" level of soiling 15c and on a selection key of an so-called "Intensive" level of soiling 15d so as to command the start of a cleaning cycle of said at least a tank of liquid detergent 11.

Suite à cette étape d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1, l'étape de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 est mise en oeuvre.Following this step of acquiring an input signal E1, the step of emptying a liquid product E2 is implemented.

Dans un mode de réalisation de l'invention, ladite étape de vidange E2 d'un produit liquide contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 vers la cuve 3 par ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 est mise en oeuvre pendant une période T prédéterminée.In one embodiment of the invention, said emptying step E2 of a liquid product contained in said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 to the tank 3 by said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 is implemented during a predetermined period T.

Ainsi, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 est vidangé par ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 pendant une période T prédéterminée soit en fonction de paramètres réglés en usine, soit en fonction de paramètres réglés par l'utilisateur, soit en fonction de moyens de détection, tel que par exemple un capteur associé à un microcontrôleur des moyens de commande 15 de la machine 1, adaptés à déterminer la durée de fonctionnement de ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17.Thus, said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 is drained by said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 for a predetermined period T either according to parameters set at the factory, or according to parameters set by the user, or as a function of detection means, such as for example a sensor associated with a microcontroller of the control means 15 of the machine 1, adapted to determine the operating time of said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.

La période T prédéterminée de fonctionnement de ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 pendant l'étape de vidange E2 d'un produit liquide contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 vers la cuve 3 peut être de l'ordre de 15 minutes.The predetermined period of operation of said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 during the emptying step E2 of a liquid product contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 to the tank 3 may be of the order 15 minutes.

Bien entendu, cette valeur de la période T prédéterminée de fonctionnement de ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 pendant l'étape de vidange E2 n'est nullement limitative et peut être adaptée en fonction de la machine à laver 1, et plus particulièrement en fonction de ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17.Of course, this value of the predetermined operating period T of said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 during the emptying step E2 is in no way limiting and can be adapted according to the washing machine 1, and more particularly depending on said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.

La durée de l'étape de vidange E2 d'un produit liquide contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 vers la cuve 3 peut être visualisée au moyen d'un afficheur 15e installé au niveau des moyens de commande 15 de la machine 1. Cet afficheur 15e peut permettre de visualiser la durée restante suite à l'étape d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1, tel qu'illustré à la figure 3.The duration of the emptying step E2 of a liquid product contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 to the tank 3 can be visualized by means of a display 15e installed at the control means 15 of the machine. 1. This display 15e can be used to display the time remaining following the step of acquiring an input signal E1, as shown in FIG. figure 3 .

Dans un mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'afficheur 15e des moyens de commande 15 de la machine à laver 1 peut permettre de visualiser le suivi de l'étape de vidange E2 d'un produit liquide contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 vers la cuve 3 en fonction du niveau de produit liquide restant à partir de données recueillies par un capteur, pouvant être par exemple un capteur de masse, et communiquées à un microcontrôleur desdits moyens de commande 15 de ladite machine à laver 1.In one embodiment of the invention, the display 15e of the control means 15 of the washing machine 1 can be used to display the follow-up of the emptying step E2 of a liquid product contained in the at least one tank liquid detergent 11 to the tank 3 depending on the level of liquid product remaining from data collected by a sensor, which may be for example a mass sensor, and communicated to a microcontroller of said control means 15 of said washing machine 1 .

Pratiquement, lesdites étapes d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1, de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 et d'évacuation dudit produit liquide E3 peuvent être répétées jusqu'à la vidange complète dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11.In practice, said steps of acquiring an input signal E1, emptying a liquid product E2 and evacuating said liquid product E3 can be repeated until the said at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 has been completely emptied. .

Ainsi, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 est vidangé par une succession des étapes d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1, de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 et d'évacuation dudit produit liquide E3.Thus, said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 is drained by a succession of steps of acquiring an input signal E1, emptying a liquid product E2 and evacuation of said liquid product E3.

Cette répétition des étapes d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1, de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 et d'évacuation dudit produit liquide E3 peut être commandée par l'utilisateur au travers des moyens de commande 15 de la machine à laver 1.This repetition of the steps of acquisition of an input signal E1, emptying of a liquid product E2 and evacuation of said liquid product E3 can be controlled by the user through the control means 15 of the washing machine 1.

L'étape de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 peut ainsi avoir une période T fixe adaptée à vidanger une quantité de produit liquide prédéterminée dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11.The step of emptying a liquid product E2 can thus have a fixed period T suitable for draining a predetermined quantity of liquid product from said at least one liquid detergent tank 11.

Pour vidanger complètement ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11, les étapes d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1, de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 et d'évacuation dudit produit liquide E3 sont répétées autant de fois que nécessaire.To completely empty the at least one liquid detergent tank 11, the steps of acquiring an input signal E1, emptying a liquid product E2 and evacuating said liquid product E3 are repeated as many times as necessary. .

Au cours de l'étape de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 vers la cuve 3 par ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17, ledit produit liquide est mélangé avec de l'eau du réseau.During the step of emptying a liquid product E2 contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 to the tank 3 by said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17, said liquid product is mixed with water. network water.

Ainsi, le produit liquide vidangé dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 est dilué et peut être introduit plus aisément dans la cuve 3. Ce produit liquide mélangé avec de l'eau a par conséquent une viscosité plus faible et s'écoule plus facilement dans la cuve 3 et permet de limiter l'encrassement de la cuve 3.Thus, the liquid product drained from said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 is diluted and can be introduced more easily into the tank 3. This liquid product mixed with water therefore has a lower viscosity and flows more easily in the tank 3 and limits the fouling of the tank 3.

Le produit liquide contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 peut être mélangé avec de l'eau soit dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11, soit dans ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17, soit dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 et dans ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17.The liquid product contained in said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 may be mixed with water either in said at least one liquid detergent tank 11, or in said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17, or in said at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 and in said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.

Dans un mode de réalisation de l'invention, la pompe de distribution de détergent 17 est mise en fonctionnement au moyen d'une électrovanne.In one embodiment of the invention, the detergent dispensing pump 17 is operated by means of a solenoid valve.

L'électrovanne est en position ouverte pendant une période prédéterminée, par exemple de l'ordre de trois secondes, de sorte à déplacer un piston de la pompe de distribution de détergent 17.The solenoid valve is in the open position for a predetermined period, for example of the order of three seconds, so as to move a piston of the detergent dispensing pump 17.

Le déplacement de ce piston de la pompe de distribution de détergent 17 permet d'entraîner le produit liquide du réservoir de détergent liquide 11, et par exemple une quantité de l'ordre de 15mL. Ce produit liquide peut comporter du détergent et de l'eau.The displacement of this piston of the detergent dispensing pump 17 makes it possible to drive the liquid product of the liquid detergent reservoir 11, and for example an amount of the order of 15 ml. This liquid product may contain detergent and water.

Puis la fermeture de l'électrovanne permet de déplacer le piston de la pompe de distribution de détergent 17 en sens inverse pour aspirer de nouveau du produit liquide dans le réservoir de détergent liquide 11.Then closing the solenoid valve moves the piston of the detergent dispensing pump 17 in the opposite direction to suck liquid again in the liquid detergent tank 11.

La commande successive de l'électrovanne actionnant la pompe de distribution de détergent 17 pendant une période T prédéterminée au cours de l'étape de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 permet de vidanger le réservoir de détergent liquide 11 vers la cuve 3.The successive control of the solenoid valve operating the detergent dispensing pump 17 for a predetermined period T during the emptying step of a liquid product E2 makes it possible to drain the liquid detergent tank 11 towards the tank 3.

Suite à l'étape de vidange d'un produit liquide E2 contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 vers la cuve 3 par ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17, l'étape d'évacuation du produit liquide E3 de la cuve 3 vers le réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée 20 par la pompe de vidange 18 est mise en oeuvre.Following the step of emptying a liquid product E2 contained in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 to the tank 3 by said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17, the evacuation step of the liquid product E3 from the tank 3 to the wastewater outlet 20 by the drain pump 18 is implemented.

Le procédé comprend une étape de rinçage E4 de la cuve 3, préférentiellement, mise en oeuvre après l'étape d'évacuation du produit liquide E3 de ladite cuve 3 vers le réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée 20 par la pompe de vidange 18.The method comprises a rinsing step E4 of the tank 3, preferably carried out after the step of evacuating the liquid product E3 from said tank 3 to the wastewater evacuation network 20 by the drain pump 18 .

Ainsi, cette étape de rinçage E4 de la cuve 3 permet de nettoyer ladite cuve 3 suite à la vidange du produit liquide contenu dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11.Thus, this rinsing step E4 of the tank 3 makes it possible to clean said tank 3 following the emptying of the liquid product contained in the said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11.

De cette manière, les cycles de fonctionnement suivants de la machine à laver domestique 1 sont mis en oeuvre dans une cuve 3 nettoyée et dégagée de résidus de détergent pouvant dégrader les performances de ladite machine à laver 1.In this way, the following operating cycles of the domestic washing machine 1 are implemented in a tank 3 cleaned and free of detergent residues that can degrade the performance of said washing machine 1.

Préférentiellement, l'étape de rinçage E4 de la cuve 3 comprend au moins les étapes suivantes :

  • introduction d'eau du réseau E41 dans la cuve 3 ; et
  • évacuation de ladite eau E42 de la cuve 3 vers le réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée 20 par la pompe de vidange 18.
Preferably, the rinsing step E4 of the vessel 3 comprises at least the following steps:
  • introducing water from the network E41 into the tank 3; and
  • evacuation of said water E42 from the tank 3 to the wastewater outlet 20 by the drain pump 18.

Ainsi, la cuve 3 est nettoyée par de l'eau provenant du réseau de sorte à retirer les résidus de détergent au moyen d'un écoulement d'eau à l'intérieur de la cuve 3.Thus, the tank 3 is cleaned with water from the network so as to remove the detergent residues by means of a flow of water inside the tank 3.

Une telle étape de rinçage E4 est ainsi économique tout en garantissant une performance de nettoyage de la cuve 3.Such an E4 rinsing step is thus economical while guaranteeing a cleaning performance of the vessel 3.

Dans le cas des machines à laver le linge, l'étape de rinçage E4 peut également comprendre une étape de brassage de l'eau introduite dans la cuve 3 par la mise en rotation du tambour 4 de sorte à améliorer les performances de rinçage de la cuve 3.In the case of washing machines, the rinsing step E4 may also comprise a step of mixing the water introduced into the tank 3 by rotating the drum 4 so as to improve the rinsing performance of the machine. tank 3.

Préférentiellement, le procédé comprend une étape d'introduction d'eau E0 dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 avant l'étape d'acquisition d'un signal d'entrée E1 adapté à commander le nettoyage dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11.Preferably, the method comprises a step of introducing water E0 into said at least one reservoir of liquid detergent 11 before the step of acquiring an input signal E1 adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one reservoir of liquid detergent 11.

Ainsi, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent 11 est rempli en eau avant le démarrage d'un cycle de nettoyage mis en oeuvre par la machine à laver domestique 1.Thus, said at least one detergent tank 11 is filled with water before starting a cleaning cycle carried out by the domestic washing machine 1.

De cette manière, ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 et ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 sont nettoyés par l'écoulement d'eau et des résidus de détergent sont retirés et vidangés dans la cuve 3.In this way, said at least one liquid detergent reservoir 11 and said at least one detergent delivery pump 17 are cleaned by the flow of water and detergent residues are removed and drained into the vessel 3.

Le remplissage en eau dudit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 permet de diluer le détergent liquide restant dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 et d'éviter de rejeter du détergent liquide non mélangé avec de l'eau dans le réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée 20 de sorte à éviter de colmater ledit réseau d'évacuation d'eau usée 20 et à protéger l'environnement.The water filling of said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 makes it possible to dilute the liquid detergent remaining in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 and to avoid rejecting liquid detergent not mixed with water in the liquid network. discharge of wastewater 20 so as to avoid clogging said wastewater discharge network 20 and protect the environment.

L'étape d'introduction d'eau E0 dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 peut être utile, notamment, dans le cas où peu de détergent est présent dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11.The step of introducing water E0 into said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11 may be useful, especially in the case where little detergent is present in said at least one tank of liquid detergent 11.

Ainsi, le détergent restant dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 est évacué plus facilement vers la cuve 3 par ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17 puisque le produit liquide constitué de détergent et d'eau est de viscosité réduite par rapport à celle du détergent.Thus, the detergent remaining in said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 is more easily discharged to the tank 3 by said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17 since the liquid product consisting of detergent and water is of reduced viscosity by compared to that of the detergent.

L'étape d'introduction d'eau E0 dans ledit au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 permet également de participer au nettoyage de ladite au moins une pompe de distribution de détergent 17.The step of introducing water E0 into said at least one liquid detergent tank 11 also makes it possible to participate in cleaning said at least one detergent dispensing pump 17.

Une étape d'arrêt E5 du procédé de nettoyage d'au moins un réservoir de détergent liquide 11 peut être mise en oeuvre à tout instant.A stopping step E5 of the cleaning process of at least one liquid detergent tank 11 can be carried out at any time.

Ainsi, le procédé de nettoyage peut être interrompu à tout instant par l'utilisateur au travers des moyens de commande 15 et/ou par un microcontrôleur des moyens de commande 15 de la machine à laver 1 de sorte à assurer la sécurité de l'utilisateur et/ou de la machine 1, ou encore à annuler le procédé suite à une erreur de commande.Thus, the cleaning method can be interrupted at any time by the user through the control means 15 and / or by a microcontroller of the control means 15 of the washing machine 1 so as to ensure the safety of the user and / or the machine 1, or to cancel the process following a control error.

Claims (10)

  1. A method for cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of a detergent dispenser (8) of a domestic washing machine (1), said washing machine (1) comprising a tank (3) filled with liquid from a water inlet, means for controlling (15) an operating cycle of said machine (1), said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) being adapted to contain a plurality of doses of at least one detergent, said detergent dispenser (8) comprising at least one detergent dispensing pump (17), said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) being connected to said at least one detergent dispensing pump (17), said at least one detergent dispensing pump (17) being connected to said tank (3), and said tank (3) being connected to a wastewater discharge network (20) by at least one draining pump (18), characterized in that said method comprises at least the following steps:
    - acquiring an input signal (E1) adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one liquid detergent tank (11);
    - draining a liquid product (E2) contained in said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) to said tank (3) by said at least one detergent dispensing pump (17); and
    - discharging said liquid product (E3) from said tank (3) to said wastewater discharge network (20) by said draining pump (18).
  2. A method for cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of a detergent dispenser (8) of a domestic washing machine (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said step of draining (E2) a liquid product contained in said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) to said tank (3) by said at least one detergent dispensing pump (17) is implemented during a predetermined period (T).
  3. A method for cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of a detergent dispenser (8) of a domestic washing machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said steps of acquiring an input signal (E1), draining a liquid product (E2), and discharging said liquid product (E3) are repeated until said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) has completely drained.
  4. A method for cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of a detergent dispenser (8) of a domestic washing machine (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, characterized in that during the step of draining a liquid product (E2) contained in said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) to said tank (3) by said at least one detergent dispensing pump (8), said liquid product is mixed with tap water.
  5. A method for cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of a detergent dispenser (8) of a domestic washing machine (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 4, characterized in that said method comprises a step of rinsing (E4) said tank (3) implemented after said step of discharging said liquid product (E3) by said tank (3) to said wastewater discharge network (20) by said draining pump (18).
  6. A method for cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of a detergent dispenser (8) of a domestic washing machine (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that said step of rinsing (E4) said tank (3) comprises at least the following steps:
    - introducing tap water (E41) into said tank (3); and
    - discharging said water (E42) from said tank (3) to said wastewater discharge network (20) by said draining pump (18).
  7. A method for cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of a detergent dispenser (8) of a domestic washing machine (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said method comprises a step of introducing water (E0) into said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) before said step of acquiring an input signal (E1) adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11).
  8. A method for cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of a detergent dispenser (8) of a domestic washing machine (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 7, characterized in that said step of acquiring an input signal (E1) adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) is acquired by one or more presses on an acquisition key or by one or more presses on a combination of keys of said means of controlling (15) said machine (1).
  9. A method for cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of a detergent dispenser (8) of a domestic washing machine (1) according to any one of the claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a step of stopping (E5) said method of cleaning at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) may be implemented at any time.
  10. A domestic washing machine (1), of the laundry-washing or dish-washing type, comprising a tank (3) filled with liquid from a water inlet, means for controlling (15) an operating cycle of said machine (1), at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) being adapted to contain a plurality of doses of at least one detergent, said detergent dispenser (8) comprising at least one detergent dispensing pump (17), said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) being connected to said at least one detergent dispensing pump (17), said at least one detergent dispensing pump (17) being connected to said tank (3), and said tank (3) being connected to a wastewater discharge network (20) by at least one draining pump (18), said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) of said detergent dispenser (8) being associated with means of controlling (15) said machine (1); characterized in that said machine (1) comprises:
    - at least one acquisition key for acquiring an input signal adapted to control the cleaning of said at least one liquid detergent tank (11);
    - wherein said at least one detergent dispensing pump (17) drains a liquid product contained in said at least one liquid detergent reservoir (11) to said tank (3); and
    - wherein said draining pump (18) discharges said liquid product from said tank (3) to said wastewater discharge network (20).
EP09171497.2A 2008-09-26 2009-09-28 Process for cleaning at least one reservoir for liquid detergent of a detergent dispenser of a washing machine and a corresponding washing machine Active EP2169104B1 (en)

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FR0805349A FR2936530B1 (en) 2008-09-26 2008-09-26 METHOD FOR CLEANING AT LEAST ONE LIQUID DETERGENT TANK OF A DETERGENT DISPENSER OF A WASHING MACHINE AND A WASHING MACHINE THEREFOR

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Publication number Publication date
FR2936530B1 (en) 2010-10-22
FR2936530A1 (en) 2010-04-02
EP2169104A1 (en) 2010-03-31
ES2604213T3 (en) 2017-03-03

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