GB2279969A

GB2279969A - Full automatic washing machine

Info

Publication number: GB2279969A
Application number: GB9414089A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Tooru Imai; Yoshimi Hashimoto; Masahiro Imai; Osamu Ishibashi; Kazutoshi Tani; Yoshiyuki Makino
Original assignee: Toshiba Corp; Toshiba AVE Co Ltd
Current assignee: Toshiba Corp; Toshiba AVE Co Ltd
Priority date: 1993-07-14
Filing date: 1994-07-12
Publication date: 1995-01-18
Anticipated expiration: 2014-07-12
Also published as: CN1061400C; TW257807B; KR0171916B1; GB9414089D0; JPH0775697A; KR950003532A; CN1104690A; GB2279969B

Abstract

A fully automatic washing machine has a function of automatically executing a washing course including steps of wash, rinse and dehydration. An operating dial (34) is rotatably mounted on an operation panel (18). Each operation mode of the washing course can be changed in ten stages, for example, in accordance with an amount of rotative movement of the operating dial (34). Thus, when, for example, a wash step selecting key is depressed, the dial can be used to change the wash period of time. There is also a display where the display modes of display elements are changed so that the operation modes are displayed stepwise. There is also a numeric display for displaying rotational speeds of an agitator and the rotatable tub. <IMAGE>

Description

FULL AUTOMATIC WASHING MACHINE This invention relates to a full automatic washing machine with a function of automatically executing a washing course including wash, rinse and dehydration steps.

One of a plurality of washing courses is selected and executed in the full automatic washing machine of the abovedescribed type. A user depresses a course selecting key mounted in an operation panel so that a desired washing course is selected and set. For example, eight washing courses are provided and include a washing course wherein an operation mode can be set, a washing course suitable for the kind or type of the clothes to be washed, a washing course providing a special washing manner and the like.

In the above-described washing machine, however, the course selecting switch needs to be operated many times depending upon the washing course to be selected. This imposes a problem that the selecting operation is troublesome. Furthermore, the washing course wherein the operation mode can be set generally includes only three courses, that is, STANDARD, POWERFUL and DELICATE. These three courses cannot satisfy the user who wishes the operation mode to be set more precisely. It can be easily considered to provide more courses to be set for the selection of the operation mode. However, the number of times of depression of the course selecting key is increased, which further complicates the selecting operation.

On the other hand, in the conventional full automatic washing machine, an amount of load or clothes accommodated in a rotatable tub is detected and the water level in the tub is automatically set on the basis of the results of detection of the amount of clothes or is manually set. The user cannot adjust the water level when she or he looks into the tub during the washing operation and desires to add more water or reduce the water. Thus, the conventional full automatic washing machine has not provided for sufficient usability for the users.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a full automatic washing machine wherein the operability in the selection and setting of the washing course can be improved and the washing operation can be precisely controlled without reduction in the operability.

Another object of the invention is to provide a full automatic washing machine wherein the quantity of water in the rotatable tub can be increased and decreased during the washing operation, thereby improving the usability of the washing machine.

The present invention provides a washing machine having a washing function wherein a washing course including steps of wash, rinse and dehydration is automatically executed, the washing machine comprising an operating dial rotatably mounted on an operation panel and operation mode changing means for changing either an operation mode of the washing course or an operation mode of at least one of the steps of the washing course in accordance with an amount of rotative movement of the operating dial.

In the above-described washing machine, the operation mode changing means changes a wash period of time and a water stream mode in the wash step, a water stream mode in the rinse step, and a dehydrating period of time and a rotational speed of a rotatable tub in the dehydration step when the operation mode of the washing course is changed.

Furthermore, the operation mode changing means changes a water stream mode in each of the wash and rinse steps and a rotational speed of a rotatable tub in the dehydration step when the operation mode of each of the wash, rinse and dehydration steps is changed.

The washing machine may further comprise a wash step selecting key depressibly mounted on the operation panel for selection of the wash step, a rinse step selecting key depressibly mounted on the operation panel for selection of the rinse step, a dehydration step selecting key depressibly - mounted on the operation panel for selection of the dehydration step, and step selecting and changing means selecting the wash step and changing the wash period of time when the wash step selecting key is depressed, selecting the rinse step and changing the number of times of a rinsing operation when the rinse step selecting key is depressed, and selecting the dehydration step and changing the dehydrating period of time when the dehydration step selecting key is depressed.

The washing machine may further comprise operation mode displaying means including a plurality of display elements and wherein display modes of the display elements are changed so that the operation modes are displayed stepwise.

Furthermore, the washing machine may further comprise numerical displaying means for displaying rotational speeds of an agitator and the rotatable tub and the like in the form of a numeral. The numerical displaying means may display an operation period of time, a number of times of the operation in each step when any one of the wash, rinse and dehydration step selecting keys is depressed, and displays the contents of the operation mode when the operating dial is rotatively moved. Furthermore, the washing machine may further comprise water level selecting means for selecting a water level in a rotatable tub in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial in a water level setting mode.

The washing machine may further comprise time setting means for setting a current time or a reserved operating time in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial in a time setting mode. The washing machine may further comprise water stream mode changing means for immediately changing the water stream mode in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial during a wash or rinse operation. The washing machine may further comprise rotational speed changing means for changing a rotational speed of a rotatable tub in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial during a dehydrating operation. In this arrangement, the washing machine further comprise an illuminating lamp illuminating the interior of the rotatable tub and illumination control means for controlling the illuminating lamp in response to the rotative movement of the operating dial during each of the washing, rinsing and dehydrating operations so that the illuminating lamp is turned on. The illumination control means may turn on the illuminating lamp in response to an initial rotative movement of the operating dial during each of the washing, rinsing and dehydrating operations, and the operation mode may be changed in accordance with the amount of the subsequent rotative movement of the operating dial.

The washing machine may further comprise a buzzer activated when the illuminating lamp is turned on in response to the rotative movement of the operating dial.

The washing machine may further comprise numerical displaying means for displaying rotational speeds of an agitator and the rotatable tub and the like in the form of a numeral and wherein the illuminating lamp is turned off and a remaining operation period of time is displayed on the numerical displaying means upon lapse of a predetermined period of time after stop of rotative movement of the operating dial.

The operating dial is preferably capable of being rotatively moved even when an access opening through which clothes are put into and taken out of the rotatable tub is closed by a lid. Furthermore, the operating dial is mounted in the operation panel to be retractable. Additionally, the movement of the operating dial is stepped every time the same is rotatively moved by a predetermined angle.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a washing machine having a washing function wherein a washing course including steps of wash, rinse and dehydration is automatically executed, the washing machine comprising an operating dial rotatably mounted on an operation panel, and water quantity adjusting means for adjusting a quantity of water in a rotatable tub by opening and closing a watersupply valve and a drain valve to increase and decrease the water in the rotatable tub.

In the above-described arrangement, the washing machine may further comprise a water quantity setting key depressibly mounted on the operation panel for providing an operation mode wherein the quantity of water in the rotatable tub can be adjusted and wherein the water quantity adjusting means adjusts the quantity of water in the rotatable tub in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial when the water quantity setting key is depressed. The water quantity adjusting means may increase or decrease the quantity of water in the rotatable tub by an amount in accordance with an angle of rotative movement of the operating dial. The washing machine may further comprise a display for displaying the quantity of water increased or decreased in the rotatable tub. A maximum increased quantity of water or a maximum decreased quantity of water is preferably set for the case where the quantity of water in the rotatable tub is increased or decreased by the water quantity adjusting means.

The invention will be described, merely by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 is top plan view of an operation panel of a washing machine of a first embodiment in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 2 is a longitudinally sectional side view of the washing machine; FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the upper portion of the washing machine; FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 showing a lid being opened; FIG. 5 is a longitudinally sectional view of an operating dial employed in the washing machine; FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the operation panel with the operating dial being projected; FIG. 7 is a view similar to FIG. 6 showing the state that the operating dial is depressed; FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an electrical arrangement of the washing machine; FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where operation modes in a washing course are changed; FIG. 10 shows the contents of the operation modes; FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where a wash step is started after selection of the washing course; FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where a water stream mode is changed after initiation of the wash step; FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where the operation mode in the dehydration step is changed after initiation of the wash step; FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where a rotational speed of a tub is changed in a dehydration step after initiation of the step; FIG. 15 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where an operating time in the wash step is changed; FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where a water stream mode in the wash step is changed; FIG. 17 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the state that the wash step has been started; FIG. 18 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where the number of times of a rinse operation in a rinse step is changed; FIG. 19 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where the water stream mode in the rinse step is changed; FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the state that the rinse step has been started; FIG. 21 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where a dehydrating time in a dehydration step is changed; FIG. 22 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the case where the rotational speed of the tub in the dehydration step is changed; FIG. 23 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing the state that the dehydration step has been started; FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the operation panel, showing a washing machine of a second embodiment in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 25 is a top plan view of the operating dial; FIG. 26 is a graph showing the relation between the rotational directions and angle of the operating dial and increase and decrease of the water level; FIG. 27 is a top plan view of a numerical display, showing an example of displayed increase in the water level; and FIG. 28 is a top plan view of the numerical display, showing an example of displayed decrease in the water level.

A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 23. Referring first to FIG 2, a full automatic washing machine comprises an outer cabinet 1 and a water-receiving tub 2 mounted on a suspension mechanism (not shown) in the outer cabinet 1. A rotatable tub 3 serving both as a wash tub and as a dehydrating basket is mounted in the water-receiving tub 2.

An agitator 4 is rotatably mounted on the inner bottom of the rotatable tub 3. An electric motor 5 for washing and dehydrating operations and a drive mechanism 6 therefor are provided on the outer bottom of the water-receiving tub 2.

The motor 5 is coupled to the drive mechanism 6 by a belt transmission mechanism 7.

The motor 5 is a DC brushless motor, for example, so that its rotational speed is variable. The drive mechanism 6 comprises a gear reduction mechanism, clutch mechanism and brake mechanism. Torque developed by the motor 5 is transmitted via the drive mechanism 6 only to the agitator 4 in both wash and rinse steps. The torque of the motor 5 is transmitted via the drive mechanism 6 both to the rotatable tub 3 and to the agitator 4 in a dehydration step.

The water-receiving tub 2 has a drain hole 8 formed in its bottom, and a drain valve 8 is provided for closing and opening the drain hole 8. An air trap 10 is provided in the vicinity of the drain hole 8. A water-level sensor 11 (see FIG. 8) is connected via an air tube 12 to the air trap 10.

The water-level sensor 11 comprises, for example, a pressure sensor delivering a detection signal in accordance with the pressure in the air trap 10 or the water level in the waterreceiving tub 2 or the rotatable tub 3. The water-level sensor 11 is disposed in the rear inside of a top cover 13 attached to the top of the outer cabinet 1. A water-supply valve 14 (see FIG. 8) for supplying water into the rotatable tub 3 is also provided in the rear inside of the top cover 13.

The top cover 13 has an access opening 15 formed to correspond to top openings of the water-receiving and rotatable tubs 2, 3. Clothes are put into and taken out of the rotatable tub 3 through the access opening 15. An electric illuminating lamp 16 is mounted on the left-hand rear edge of the access opening 15 for illuminating the interior of the rotatable tub 3. The illuminating lamp 16 is disposed so that light emitting therefrom is directed downward. A two-folded lid 17 is mounted on the top cover 13 to close and open the access opening 15. The lid 17 has a window 17a through which the user views the interior of the rotatable tub 3. A lid switch (not shown) is provided for detecting the closed or open state of the lid 17. The illuminating lamp 16 is turned on on the basis of a switch signal delivered by the lid switch when the lid 17 is opened while it is turned off upon closure of the lid 17. An operation panel 18 as shown in FIG. 1 is mounted on the front of the top cover 13.

The operation panel 18 includes various operation keys and displays as shown in FIG. 1. More specifically, the operation keys include a time setting key 19 for providing a time setting mode, a water-level setting key 20 for the setting of the water level, a soak setting key 21 for setting a soak course, a wash step setting key 22 for setting a wash step, a rinse step setting key 23 for setting a rinse step, a dehydration step setting key 24 for setting a dehydration step, a water-supply and rinse mode setting key 25 for setting a water-supply and rinse mode wherein the rinsing operation is performed with water being supplied into the tub 3, and a start/interrupt key 26 for starting and interrupting the operation of the washing machine. Each of the above-described keys comprises a push-button switch and is turned on while it is depressed.

The above various displays include a mode display 27 for displaying a time setting mode for setting either a time reserved operation or a current time, a water-level display 28 for displaying the water level, a numerical display 29 serving as numerical displaying means for displaying in the form of a numeral the reserved time, current time, remaining operation time and the like, a display 30 for displaying the contents of the time displayed on the numerical display 29, a step display 31 for displaying an operation step being executed, a water-supply and rinse mode display 32 for displaying a set water-supply and rinse mode, and an operation mode display 33 serving as operation mode displaying means for displaying an operation mode in the washing course or each operation step. The mode display 27 comprises two light-emitting diodes 27a and 27b, for example. The water-level display 28 comprises four lightemitting diodes 28a to 28d. The numerical display 29 comprises a light-emitting diode and is formed into a seven segment type. The display 30 comprises two light-emitting diodes 30a and 30b. The step display 31 comprises four light-emitting diodes 31a to 31d. The water-supply and rinse mode display 32 comprises one light-emitting diode 32a. The operation mode display 33 comprises ten lightemitting diodes 33a.

An operating dial 34 is rotatably mounted on a shaft of a rotary switch 35 to be disposed on the right-hand end of the operation panel 18, as shown in FIG. 5. Upon rotative movement of the operating dial 34, the rotary switch 35 delivers a signal in accordance with a direction and an amount of the rotative movement of the operating dial 34.

The rotary switch 35 comprises a rotary variable resistor (potentiometer) or a rotary encoder (pulse generator). The direction and amount of rotative movement of the rotary switch 35 can be detected on the basis of the signal delivered by the operating dial 34. Furthermore, the operating dial 34 is retractable with respect to an upper face of the operation panel 18, as shown in FIGS. 5-7. When the operating dial 34 assuming a projected position (FIG. 6) is depressed, it is held at a retracted position (FIG. 7).

When the operating dial 34 assuming the retracted position is further depressed, it is projected to be held in the projected position. The construction for the abovedescribed retracting movement of the operating dial 34 can be achieved by a heart-shaped cam mechanism and a compression coil spring as well known in the art. The operating dial 34 is constructed so that its movement is stepped every time it is rotatively moved by a predetermined angle, for example, by 10 degrees. More specifically, a rotary disc 35b is mounted in a case 35a of the rotary switch 35 so as to be rotated with the operating dial 34, as shown in FIG. 5. The rotary disc 35b has a concave and convex face for the stepping movement on its outer peripheral face 35c. A leaf spring 35d for the stepping movement is mounted on the inner face of the right-hand side wall of the case 35a. The leaf spring 35d has a convex portion 35e engaged with the concave and convex face of the rotary disc 35b so that the movement of the rotary disc 35b or the operating dial 34 is stepped.

The lid 17 covers the operation panel 18 when closing the access opening 15, as shown in FIG. 3. The lid 17 has a through hole 17b formed through its front portion corresponding to the operating dial 34, as shown in FIG. 4.

The operating dial 34 projects through the through hole 17b when the lid 17 is closed, so that it can be operated even in the closed state of the lid 17. The lid 17 further has a rectangular window 17c formed at the left hand of the through hole 17b in its front portion. The user can view the display 29 and so forth on the operation panel 18 through the window 17c even when the lid 17 is closed.

Referring to FIG. 8, a control circuit 36 comprises a microcomputer having a memory storing a control program for automatically executing a washing course including wash, rinse and dehydration steps. The control circuit 36 serves as operation mode control means, step selecting means, water level selecting means, time setting means, water stream changing means, rotational speed changing means and illumination control means, as will be described later. The control circuit 36 is supplied with a water-level detection signal from the water level sensor 11, various key signals from an operation circuit 37 including the operation keys of the operation panel, and a signal from the rotary switch 35.

The control circuit 36 controls the motor 5, water-supply valve 14, drain valve 9, a display circuit 38 including various displays on the operation panel 18, and a buzzer 39 through respective drive circuits 40 to 44.

The control circuit 36 is further supplied with a speed signal from a speed sensor 45 sensing the rotational speed of the motor 5 and a load signal from a load sensor 46 sensing the magnitude of a load applied to the motor 5.

Based on the speed signal from the speed sensor 45, the control circuit 36 controls the motor 5 in a feedback manner so that the motor 5 is driven at a desired speed.

Furthermore, the control circuit 36 detects an amount of clothes accommodated in the rotatable tub 3 on the basis of the load signal from the load sensor 46.

The operation of the washing machine will be described with reference to FIGS. 9-23. Upon turn-on of a power switch, a washing course including a standard operation mode is displayed, as shown in FIG. 9. More specifically, the fifth light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 from the top is turned on. An indication, "110 rpm" indicative of the speed of the agitator 4 in the washing and rinsing operations is displayed on the numerical display 29. This speed will be referred to as "washing speed." The washing course indicated by the fifth light-emitting diode 33a has an operation mode of course 5 in FIG. 10. More specifically, a washing period of time is set for 12 minutes in the above washing course. "On" and "off" periods of a reversing time interval are 1.5 sec. and 0.8 sec. respectively. The rotational speed of the tub 3 in the wash step is set for 110 rpm and the number of times of the rinsing operation is set for 2. A dehydrating period of time is set for 7 min. The rotational speed of the tub 3 in the dehydrating operation is set for 800 rpm. This speed will be ref erred to as "dehydrating speed." The operation mode of the washing course can be changed in ten steps, for example, upon the rotative movement of the operating dial 34 when the operation panel 18 is in the above-described state of display. When the operating dial 34 is rotatively moved or turned in the clockwise direction by a set angle in the state in FIG. 9 until its movement is stepped, the fourth light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 from the top is turned on and an indication, "120 rpm" indicative of the washing speed is displayed on the numerical display 29. The washing course indicated by the fourth light-emitting diode 33a has an operation mode of course 4 in FIG. 10. Subsequently, the third, second and first light-emitting diodes 33a are turned on sequentially in this order every time the operating dial 34 is turned in the clockwise direction by the set angle, so that the washing speeds, "130 rpm," "140 rpm" and "150 rpm" are sequentially displayed on the numerical display 29. The washing courses indicated by the third, second and first light-emitting diodes 33a have operation modes of courses 3, 2 and 1, respectively. The contents displayed on the numerical display 29 do not change when the operating dial 34 is turned in the clockwise direction in the on state of the first light-emitting diode 33a.

On the other hand, when the operating dial 34 is turned in the counterclockwise direction by the set angle in the on state of the first light-emitting diode 33a until its movement is stepped, the second light-emitting diode 33a from the top is turned on and the washing speed, "140 rpm" is displayed on the numerical display 29. Subsequently, the third to tenth light-emitting diodes 33a are turned on sequentially in this order every time the operating dial 34 is turned in the counterclockwise direction by the set angle, so that the washing speeds, "130 rpm" to "30 rpm" are sequentially displayed on the numerical display 29. The contents displayed on the numerical display 29 do not change when the operating dial 34 is turned in the counterclockwise direction in the on state of the tenth light-emitting diode 33a.

As described above, the washing course can be set for desired one of the ten operation modes in FIG. 10 when the operating dial 34 is turned in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction. In setting the operation mode of the washing course, the washing period of time and the water stream mode in the wash step- are changed. In this case, the water stream mode includes the reversing time interval and the washing speed. The reversing time interval refers to an energizing period of the forward and reverse rotation of the motor 5 and a deenergizing period of the motor 5 when it is switched between the forward and reverse rotation. Regarding the rinse step, the water stream mode or more specifically, the reversing time interval and the washing speed are changed. Furthermore, the dehydrating period and the rotational speed of the rotatable tub 3 are changed in the dehydration step. FIG. 10 shows the ten steps of the operation mode in the case where the water level is HIGH. other water levels, MIDDLE, LOW and SMALL QUANTITY, are set in the washing machine and ten steps of the operation mode for each of these water levels are also provided.

The washing operation is initiated upon turn-on of the start/interrupt key 26 after selection of the operation mode of the washing course as described above. The washing operation starts with water supply in the wash step and is subsequently executed automatically. The numerical display 29 displays a period of time required for execution of the washing course set as described above, for example, "48 min." in the state that the start/interrupt key 26 has been turned on. The displayed time period also serves as a remaining operation time period. Furthermore, the lightemitting diode 31b of the step display 31 indicative of the wash step is turned on and off to flash. The light-emitting diodes 31c, 31d indicative of the respective rinse and dehydration steps are turned on. Subsequently, the remaining operation time period displayed on the numerical display 29 is sequentially reduced with progress of the washing operation. Furthermore, the light-emitting diodes of the step display 31 indicative of the completed steps are sequentially turned off, and the light-emitting diode indicative of the step being executed is turned on and off to flash.

The operation mode is changed during execution of each of the wash, rinse and dehydration steps in the following manners. The operating dial 34 is turned either clockwise or counterclockwise by the set angle when the user desires to change the water stream mode during execution of the wash step. Then, the washing speed in the currently set operation mode is displayed on the numerical display 29.

The illuminating lamp 16 is turned on to illuminate the interior of the tub 3 when the lid 17 is closed. The buzzer 39 is activated upon turn-on of the illuminating lamp 16.

In this state, when the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by the set angle, the operation mode or the water stream mode is intensified one step. For example, the fourth light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 is turned on and "120 rpm" indicative of the washing speed is displayed when the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by the set angle in the state that the fifth light-emitting diode 33a is turned on and "110 rpm" is displayed. See FIG. 12. Simultaneously, the wash step is immediately executed in the selected operation mode wherein the washing speed is 120 rpm and "on" and "off" periods of the reversing time interval are 1.2 sec. and 0.8 sec.

respectively. The operation mode is thus intensified one step every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by the set angle.

On the other hand, the operation mode is weakened one step every time the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise by the set angle. The remaining operation period is displayed on the numerical display 29 upon lapse of a set period, for example, 15 seconds, after a desired operation mode has been set. The illuminating lamp 16 is turned off when the lid 17 is closed.

The dehydration setting key 24 is depressed when the user desires to change the operation mode in the dehydration step or dehydrating speed during execution of the wash step.

Then, the currently set dehydrating speed is displayed on the numerical display 29. In this state, the operation mode is intensified one step every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by the set angle. The light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 corresponding to the selected operation mode is turned on and the dehydrating speed corresponding to the selected operation mode is displayed on the numerical display 29. FIG. 13 shows the case where the most intensive operation mode has been selected.

On the step is initiated after completion of the wash and rinse steps, the dehydration step is executed in the reselected operation mode wherein the dehydrating speed is 1,000 rpm and the dehydrating period is 8 minutes in the case shown in FIG. 13.

The water stream mode of the rinse step and the operation mode of the dehydration step are changed during execution of the rinse step in the same manner as described above for the change of the operation mode of the dehydration step during execution of the wash step.

The operating dial 34 is turned in either direction by the set angle when the user desires to change the operation mode of the dehydration step during execution of the dehydration step. Then, the dehydrating speed corresponding to the currently set operation mode is displayed on the numerical display 29. Since the lid 17 is closed, the illuminating lamp 16 is turned on. The buzzer 39 is activated upon turn-on of the lamp 16. In this state, the operation mode or the dehydrating speed is intensified one step every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by the set angle. On the other hand, the operation mode is weakened one step every time the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise by the set angle. The light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 corresponding to the selected operation mode is turned on, and the corresponding dehydrating speed is displayed on the numerical display 29, as shown as one example in FIG. 14. Simultaneously, the motor 5 is controlled so that the dehydrating step is executed in the reselected operation mode. The remaining operation period is displayed on the numerical display 29 and the lamp 16 is turned off upon lapse of the set period after a desired operation mode has been set.

Manually setting the operating conditions of each of the wash, rinse and dehydration steps will now be described.

When the operating conditions of the wash step are manually set, the wash step setting key 22 is depressed after turn-on of the power switch. The light-emitting diode 31b of the step display 31 for the wash step is turned on so that the wash step is selected, as shown in FIG. 15. The numerical display 39 then displays "15 mix," indicative of the maximum washing period, for example. The displayed washing period is decreased by one minute every time the wash step setting key 22 is depressed. The decreased washing period is sequentially displayed on the numerical display 29. The displayed washing period returns to the maximum value when the wash step setting key 22 is depressed after the washing period has been decreased to the minimum value, 0 minutes, which minimum value denotes non-execution of the wash step.

When the operation mode of the wash step is manually set, the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise or counterclockwise after the washing period has been set as described above. The operation mode or the water stream mode is intensified one step every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by the set angle. The water stream mode is not changed even when the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise after the most intensive water stream mode has been set. On the other hand, the water stream mode is weakened one step every time the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise by the set angle. The water stream mode is not changed even when the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise after the most weakened water stream mode has been set. The water stream mode is not changed even when the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise after the weakest water stream mode has been set. When the operating dial 34 is turned to change the water stream mode as described above, the light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 corresponding to the changed water stream mode is turned on and the corresponding washing speed is displayed on the numerical display 29, as shown in FIG. 16.

Subsequently, the wash step is executed under the operating conditions manually set as described above when the start/interrupt key 26 is turned on. The remaining operation period is displayed on the numerical display 29, as shown in FIG. 17. Furthermore, the light-emitting diodes 31b of the step display 31 for the wash step are flashed and the light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 corresponding to the set water stream mode is turned on.

Manual setting of the operating conditions in the rinse step will now be described. The rinse step setting key 23 is depressed after turn-on of the power switch.

Consequently, the light-emitting diode 31c of the step display 31 for the rinse step is turned on so that the rinse step is selected, as shown in FIG. 18. The numerical display 29 displays "3" indicative of the maximum number of times of rinsing operation, for example. The displayed number is decremented every time the rinse step setting key 23 is depressed. The decremented number is sequentially displayed on the numerical display 29. The displayed number returns to the maximum value, "3" when the rinse step setting key 23 is depressed after the number has been decreased to the minimum value, 0, which minimum value denotes non-execution of the rinse step.

When the operation mode of the rinse step is manually set, the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise or counterclockwise after the number of times of the rinsing operation has been set as described above, as shown in FIG. 19. The operating manner is the same as in the case where the operation mode of the wash step is set as described above.

Subsequently, the rinse step is executed under the operating conditions manually set as described above when the start/interrupt key 26 is turned on. The remaining operation period is displayed on the numerical display 29, as shown in FIG. 20. Furthermore, the light-emitting diodes 31b of the step display 31 for the rinse step are flashed and the light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 corresponding to the set rinse mode is turned on.

When the operation mode of the dehydration step is manually set, the dehydration step setting key 24 is depressed after the power switch has been turned on.

Consequently, the light-emitting diode 31d of the step display 31 for the dehydration step is turned on, as shown in FIG. 21. The numerical display 29 displays the maximum value of the dehydrating period, for example, 9 minutes.

The dehydrating period is reduced by one minute every time the dehydration step setting key 24 is depressed. The reduced dehydrating period is sequentially displayed on the numerical display 29. The displayed dehydrating period returns to the maximum value when the dehydration step setting key 24 is further depressed after the dehydrating period has reduced to the minimum value, 0. The setting of the minimum value denotes non-execution of the dehydration step.

The operating dial 34 is then turned clockwise or counterclockwise after the dehydrating period has been set as described above. For example, the dehydrating speed is increased one step every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by the set angle. The water stream mode is not changed even when the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise after the dehydrating speed has been set for the highest speed. On the other hand, the dehydrating speed is reduced one step every time the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise by the set angle. The dehydrating speed is not changed even when the operating dial 34 is further turned counterclockwise after the dehydrating speed has been set for the lowest. The light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 corresponding to the changed dehydrating speed is turned on and the corresponding dehydrating speed is displayed on the numerical display 29.

See FIG. 22.

Subsequently, the dehydration step is executed under the operating conditions manually set as described above when the start/interrupt key 26 is turned on. The remaining operation period is displayed on the numerical display 29, as shown in FIG. 23. Furthermore, the light-emitting diodes 31b of the step display 31 for the rinse step are flashed and the light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 corresponding to the set dehydrating speed is turned on.

Although the operating conditions of each step are individually set and executed in the foregoing, they may manually be set sequentially and the operation may be initiated with the wash step upon turn-on of the start/interrupt key 26. In this case, the operating conditions of the respective wash, rinse and dehydration steps are manually set in the manner as described above.

Upon turn-on of the start/interrupt key 26, the wash step is executed and simultaneously, the remaining operation period is displayed on the numerical display 29. Furthermore, the light-emitting diode 31b of the step display 31 indicative of the wash step is flashed. The light-emitting diodes 31c and 31d indicative of the respective rinse and dehydration steps are turned on. The light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 indicative of the water stream mode of the wash step is also turned on. Thereafter, the rinse step is initiated upon completion of the wash step.

The light-emitting diode 31b indicative of the wash step and the light-emitting diode 33a indicative of the water stream mode of the wash step are turned off. The light-emitting diode 31c indicative of the rinse step is flashed and the light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 indicative of the water stream mode of the rinse step is turned on. The dehydration step is initiated 'upon completion of the rinse step. The light-emitting diode 31c and the light-emitting diode 33a indicative of the water stream mode of the rinse step are turned off. The lightemitting diode 31d indicative of the dehydration step is flashed and the light-emitting diode 33a of the operation mode display 33 indicative of the dehydrating speed set for the dehydration step is turned on.

Setting the current time and the time for a reserved operation will now be described. In setting the current time, the clock setting key 19 is depressed so that the light-emitting diode 27b of the mode display 27 is turned on. The control sequence is then in the mode for setting the current time. In this state, the operating dial 34 is turned relatively rapidly so that the hour of the current time is set. The operating dial 34 is turned relatively slowly so that the minute of the current time is set. When the operating dial 34 is rapidly turned clockwise, the hour portion of the numerical display 29 is changed from "1" to "2," and "24" in the ascending sequence. On the other hand, the hour portion of the numerical display 29 is changed in the descending sequence when the operating dial 34 is rapidly turned counterclockwise. After the setting of the hour of the current time, the operating dial 34 is slowly turned so that the minute of the current time is set. When the operating dial 34 is slowly turned clockwise, the minute portion of the numerical display 29 is changed from "1" to "2" and "60" in the ascending sequence. The minute portion is changed in the descending sequence when the operating dial 34 is slowly turned counterclockwise. The timing function starts upon depression of the clock setting key 19 after the setting of the hour and minute of the current time.

When the reserved time in a reserved washing course such as a completion time of the washing operation is set, the clock setting key 19 is depressed so that the lightemitting diode 27a of the mode display 27 is turned on. In this state, the operating dial 34 is turned so that the reserved time is set. The operating manner is the same as in setting the current time.

Manually setting the water level will be described.

The water level setting key 20 is depressed so that the control sequence is in the operation mode for setting the water level. Upon the above depression of the key 20, the light-emitting diode 28a of the water level display 28 indicative of the high water level is turned on and "60" indicative of a quantity of water in liters is displayed on the numerical display 29. The operating dial 34 is turned in this state so that the water level is changed. For example, "60" is subtracted by "1" every time the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise by the set angle. The light-emitting diode 28a indicative of the high water level is turned off when the numeral displayed on the numerical display 29 is reduced to "50" (liters). The light-emitting diode 28b indicative of the middle water level is turned on, instead. The light-emitting diode 28b is turned off and the light-emitting diode 28c indicative of the low water level is turned on, instead when the numeral on the numerical display 29 is reduced to "40." Furthermore, the lightemitting diode 28c is turned off and the light-emitting diode 28d indicative of the small quantity is turned on, instead when the numeral displayed on the numerical display 29 is reduced to "30." The numeral on the display 29 is increased by "1" every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by the set angle for the purpose of increasing the water level.

As described above, the water level can be set in the unit of one liter between the high water level (60 liters) and the small quantity (30 liters) by the operating dial 34.

Alternatively, the water level may be set in the unit of 2 or 5 liters. Furthermore, the water level mode is changed from "HIGH" to "MIDDLE," "LOW," "SMALL QUANTITY" and "HIGH" every time the water level setting key 20 is depressed. In this case, the light-emitting diodes 28a-28d are sequentially turned on and the numeral displayed on the numerical display 29 is sequentially changed from "60" to "50," "40" and "30." According to the above-described embodiment, the operating dial 34 is turned so that the operation mode of the washing course can be changed in the ten steps, for example. Only the turning of the operating dial 34 is required for the selection of a desired operation mode.

Accordingly, the operation for selecting the washing course can be simplified as compared with the prior art wherein the course selecting switch needs to be operated many times.

Furthermore, since the operation mode in each of the wash, rinse and dehydration steps is changed in the ten steps, for example, each step can be set precisely and the setting operation can be simplified.

When the operation mode of the washing course is changed, the wash period and the water stream mode including the washing speed and the reversing time interval are changed with respect to the wash step. The water stream mode is changed with respect to the rinse step, and the dehydrating period and the rotational speed of the rotatable tub are changed with respect to the dehydration step.

Consequently, the operation mode of the washing course can be changed minutely. Furthermore, when the operation mode of each step is manually changed, the water stream mode including the washing speed and the reversing time interval is changed with respect to each of the wash and rinse steps.

The rotational speed of the rotatable tub is changed with respect to the dehydration step. Consequently, the operation mode can be also changed precisely in the manual setting.

The wash step is selected and the washing period is changed by depression of the wash selecting key 22. The rinse step is selected and the number of times of the rinsing operation is changed by depression of the rinse selecting key 23. The dehydration step is selected and the dehydrating period is changed by depression of the dehydration selecting key 24. Consequently, the operating period and the number of times of the operation in each step can be set for the desired values. Furthermore, the operation mode display 33 comprising the ten light-emitting diodes, for example, is provided for serving as the operation mode displaying means for displaying the operation mode stepwise. Accordingly, the operation mode can be changed with ease and the changed operation mode can be confirmed with ease.

When the operation mode of each step has been manually changed, the changed operation mode is displayed on the operation mode display 33 during the execution of each step.

Consequently, the operation mode being executed can be confirmed during execution of each step. Furthermore, the rotational speed of the agitator 4 or the washing speed and the rotational speed of the rotatable tub 3 of the dehydrating speed are displayed in the numerical form on the display 29. Accordingly, the contents of the operation mode can be clearly confirmed. Furthermore, the operation period and the number of times of the operation in each step are displayed on the numerical display 29 when each of the wash, rinse and dehydration step selecting keys 22, 23, 24 are depressed. On the other hand, the contents of the operation mode such as the washing speed are displayed on the numerical display 29 when the operating dial 34 is turned.

Since the numerical display 29 can be switched between the two display modes, it can be effectively used.

The water level is set in the unit of one liter in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial 34. Thus, the operation for setting the water level can be simplified and the water level can be set precisely. Furthermore, the current time and the time for the reserved operation can be set by turning the operating dial. The time setting operation can be simplified as compared with the prior art wherein each of the "hour" and "minute" keys needs to be depressed repeatedly.

The operating dial 34 is turned during execution of the wash or rinse step so that the water stream mode is changed in the ten steps, for example. The changed water stream mode can be visually confirmed almost simultaneously with the setting thereof and the change in the water stream mode can be clearly recognized. The operating dial 34 is also turned even during execution of the dehydrating operation so that the rotational speed of the rotatable tub is changed.

Consequently, the changed rotational speed can be confirmed almost simultaneously with the setting thereof, which can improve the usability of the washing machine.

The illuminating lamp 16 is provided for illuminating the interior of the rotatable tub 3 in the foregoing embodiment. The illuminating lamp 16 is turned on when the operating dial 34 is turned even during execution of each of the wash, rinse and dehydration steps. Accordingly, the user can clearly view the interior of the tub 3 during execution of each step and the operating mode can be easily confirmed. In this regard, the water stream or other modes are not changed when the operating dial 34 is turned so that the illuminating lamp 16 is turned on. Thus, the operating dial 34 is used both as a switch for the illuminating lamp 16 and as a switch for changing the water stream mode and the like. Furthermore, the buzzer 39 is activated when the operating dial 34 is turned so that the illuminating lamp 16 is turned on. Consequently, wrong operation and misunderstanding can be prevented.

The illuminating lamp 16 is automatically turned off and the remaining operation period is displayed on the numerical display 29 upon lapse of the set period of time after termination of the rotative movement of the operating dial 34. Consequently, the illuminating lamp 16 can be prevented from remaining activated for a long time, and the remaining operation period can be confirmed at all times.

Additionally, the operating dial 34 can be turned even when the access opening 15 is closed by the lid 17, as shown in FIG. 3. Thus, the operating dial 34 can be turned during execution of the dehydrating operation so that the rotational speed of the rotatable tub 3 is changed.

Furthermore, since the operating dial 34 is retractably mounted on the operation panel 18, it can be operated easily when it is projected. On the other hand, the operating dial 34 can prevent from obstructing packing of the washing machine and the opening and closing of the lid 17 when retracted. Furthermore, the movement of the operating dial 34 is stepped every time it is turned by the predetermined angle, for example, by ten degrees. Consequently, the operability of the operating dial 34 can be improved.

Although the operating mode of the washing course or of each step is changed in the ten steps as shown in FIG. 10 in the foregoing embodiment, numerical values in FIG. 10 may be changed. Although the ten steps are employed in FIG. 10, the number of steps may be between one and nine.

FIGS. 24 to 28 illustrate a second embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 24 showing an operation panel 51, a water quantity adjusting key 52 is provided instead of the water-supply and rinse mode setting key 25. The water quantity adjusting key 52 is operated so that the quantity of water or the water level in the rotatable tub 3 can be adjusted during execution of the wash or rinse step. A light-emitting diode 53 is provided on the operation panel 51 for indicating that the control sequence is in the mode wherein the quantity of water in the rotatable tub 3 is adjustable.

The numerical display 29 serves for displaying the increased or decreased quantity of water in the tub 3. An indication of unit, "cm," is printed on the right-hand lower portion of the numerical display 29. This indication serves as the unit indicating the change of the water level. A light-emitting diode may be provided to be turned on when the control sequence is in the mode wherein the water quantity is adjustable, instead of the above-described indication.

The mechanical construction and electrical arrangement of the washing machine other than the above-described operation panel 51 are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment respectively. The control circuit 36 has a function of water quantity adjusting means. The water-supply valve 14 or the drain valve 9 is driven so that the quantity of water in the tub 3 is increased or decreased when the operating dial 34 is turned in the mode that the quantity of water in the tub 3 can be adjusted or in the state that the water quantity adjusting key 52 has been depressed. More specifically, when the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise, the water-supply valve 14 is opened, so that water is supplied into the tub 3, as shown in FIG. 25.

On the other hand, the drain valve 9 is opened to discharge the water out of the tub 3 when the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise. The water level in the tub 3 is increased by 1 cm every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by 18 degrees, for example. The maximum increase is set, for example, for 5 cm corresponding to the rotational angle of 90 degrees. The water level is decreased by 1 cm every time the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise by 18 degrees. The maximum decrease is set for 5 cm, for example. The increased or decreased amount set as described above is displayed on the numerical display 29, as shown in FIG. 27 or 28, so that the user can visually confirm it. The operating dial 34 is constructed so that its movement is stepped every time it is turned by 18 degrees.

The operation of the washing machine will be described.

The user selects a desired automatic operation course and starts the washing operation. Then, the quantity of clothes is detected and the water level suitable for the detected quantity of clothes is automatically set. The washing and rinsing operations are executed with the set water level.

When the operating conditions are manually set, the washing and rinsing operations are executed with the manually set water level.

The user desires a supplemental water-supply to be performed when viewing the interior of the tub 3 and finding that the movement of the clothes is too slow. In such a case, the water quantity adjusting key 52 and the operating dial 34 are operated so that water is supplied into the tub 3. More specifically, upon depression of the water quantity adjusting key 52, the light-emitting diode 53 is turned on and the control sequence is in the mode that the quantity of water in the tub 3 is adjustable. When the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise in this state, the water-supply valve 14 is immediately opened so that the water supply is initiated. The washing or rinsing operation continues without interruption all the while. The water level in the tub 3 is increased by 1 cm every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise by 18 degrees. The increment of the water level is displayed on the numerical display 29.

Accordingly, the user turns the operating dial 34 in the clockwise direction until the desired increment of the water level is displayed on the numerical display 29.

Assume the case where an increment of 3 cm is set and displayed, for example. The water valve 14 is closed for stop of the water supply at the time the water level is increased by 3 cm on the basis of the detection signal from the water level sensor 11 and the water-supply speed previously measured at the time of the initial water-supply.

The light-emitting diode 53 is turned off. Thus, control is performed so that the former operational status is recovered. The maximum increment of the water level is 5 cm and the increment of 5 cm is set and displayed when the operating dial 34 has been turned by 90 degrees.

Subsequently, the increment is not changed even when the operating dial 34 is further turned.

The user desires to reduce the wash liquid in the tub 3 when viewing its interior and finding that the movement of the clothes is so violent that the wash liquid splashes very hard. In such a case, the water quantity adjusting key 52 and the operating dial 34 are operated so that the wash liquid in the tub 3 is reduced. More specifically, upon depression of the water quantity adjusting key 52, the light-emitting diode 53 is turned on, so that the control sequence is in the mode that the quantity of water in the tub 3 is adjustable. When the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise in this state, the drain valve 9 is immediately opened so that the wash liquid is discharged out of the tub 3. The washing or rinsing operation continues without interruption all the while. The water level in the tub 3 is decreased by 1 cm every time the operating dial 34 is turned counterclockwise by 18 degrees. The decrement of the water level is displayed with an indication of "-" on the numerical display 29.

Accordingly, the user turns the operating dial 34 in the counterclockwise direction until the desired decrement of the water level is displayed on the numerical display 29.

The drain valve 9 is closed at the time the water level is decreased to the set water level on the basis of the detection signal from the water level sensor 11 and the discharge speed measured at the time of the previous discharge. The light-emitting diode 53 is turned off.

Thus, control is performed so that the former operational status is recovered. The maximum decrement of the water level is -5 cm and the decrement of -5 cm is set and displayed when the operating dial 34 has been turned by 90 degrees. Subsequently, the decrement is not changed even when the operating dial is further turned.

According to the second embodiment, the same effect can be achieved as in the first embodiment. Moreover, the quantity of water in the rotatable tub 3 can be increased or decreased by operation of the water quantity adjusting key 52 and the operating dial 34 during execution of the washing and rinsing operations. Consequently, the usability of the washing machine can be further improved. Furthermore, since the increment or decrement of the water level is displayed on the numerical display 29, the user can clearly recognize the increment or decrement of the water level. Since the maximum increment and the maximum decrement of the water level are provided, an excessive increase or decrease in the water in the tub 3 can be prevented.

In the second embodiment, the water level is increased or decreased by 1 cm every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise or counterclockwise by the set angle or 18 degrees. Alternatively, the water level may be increased or decreased by 0.5 cm every time the operating dial 34 is turned clockwise or counterclockwise by 9 degrees. The increment and decrement of the water level may be set more precisely or more roughly. Additionally, although the maximum increment and the maximum decrement of the water level are set for 5 and -5 cm respectively, they should not be limited to these values.

The water-supply valve 14 or the drain valve 9 is driven to increase or decrease the quantity of water in the tub 3 in acco the second embodiment.

The foregoing disclosure and drawings are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention and are not to be construed in a limiting sense. Various changes and modification will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. All such changes and modifications are seen to fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A washing machine having a washing function wherein a washing course including steps of wash, rinse and dehydration is automatically executed, the washing machine comprising: a) an operating dial rotatably mounted on an operation panel; and b) operation mode changing means for changing either an operation mode of the washing course or an operation mode of at least one of the steps of the washing course in accordance with an amount of rotative movement of the operating dial.

2. A washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation mode changing means changes a wash period of time and a water stream mode in the wash step, a water stream mode in the rinse step, and a dehydrating period of time and a rotational speed of a rotatable tub in the dehydration step when the operation mode of the washing course is changed.

3. A washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation mode changing means changes a water stream mode in each of the wash and rinse steps and a rotational speed of a rotatable tub in the dehydration step when the operation mode of each of the wash, rinse and dehydration steps is changed.

4. A washing machine according to claim 3, further comprising: a) a wash step selecting key depressibly mounted on the operation panel for selection of the wash step; b) a rinse step selecting key depressibly mounted on the operation panel for selection of the rinse step; c) a dehydration step selecting key depressibly mounted on the operation panel for selection of the dehydration step; and d) step selecting and changing means selecting the wash step and changing the wash period of time when the wash step selecting key is depressed, selecting the rinse step and changing the number of times of a rinsing operation when the rinse step selecting key is depressed, and selecting the dehydration step and changing the dehydrating period of time when the dehydration step selecting key is depressed.

5. A washing machine according to claim 1, 2 or 3, further comprising operation mode displaying means including a plurality of display elements and wherein display modes of the display elements are changed so that the operation modes are displayed stepwise.

6. A washing machine according to claim 1, 2 or 3, further comprising numerical displaying means for displaying rotational speeds of an agitator and the rotatable tub and the like in the form of a numeral.

7. A washing machine according to claim 6, wherein the numerical displaying means displays an operation period of time, a number of times of the operation in each step when any one of the wash, rinse and dehydration step selecting keys is depressed, and displays the contents of the operation mode when the operating dial is rotatively moved.

8. A washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising water level selecting means for selecting a water level in a rotatable tub in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial in a water level setting mode.

9. A washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising time setting means for setting a current time or a reserved operation time in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial in a time setting mode.

10. A washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising water stream mode changing means for immediately changing the water stream mode in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial during a wash or rinse operation.

11. A washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising rotational speed changing means for changing a rotational speed of a rotatable tub in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial during a dehydrating operation.

12. A washing machine according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising an illuminating lamp illuminating the interior of the rotatable tub and illumination control means for controlling the illuminating lamp in response to the rotative movement of the operating dial during each of the washing, rinsing and dehydrating operations so that the illuminating lamp is turned on.

13. A washing machine according to claim 12, wherein the illumination control means turns on the illuminating lamp in response to an initial rotative movement of the operating dial during each of the washing, rinsing and dehydrating operations and the operation mode is changed in accordance with the amount of the subsequent rotative movement of the operating dial.

14. A washing machine according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising a buzzer activated when the illuminating lamp is turned on in response to the rotative movement of the operating dial.

15. A washing machine according to claim 12, 13 or 14, further comprising numerical displaying means for displaying rotational speeds of an agitator and the rotatable tub and the like in the form of a numeral and wherein the illuminating lamp is turned off and a remaining operation period of time is displayed on the numerical displaying means upon lapse of a predetermined period of time after stop of rotative movement of the operating dial.

16. A washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the operating dial is capable of being rotatively moved even when an access opening through which clothes are put into and taken out of the rotatable tub is closed by a lid.

17. A washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the operating dial is mounted on the operation panel to be retractable.

18. A washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the movement of the operating dial is stepped every time the same is rotatively moved by a predetermined angle.

19. A washing machine having a washing function wherein a washing course including steps of wash, rinse and dehydration is automatically executed, the washing machine comprising: a) an operating dial rotatably mounted on an operation panel; and b) water quantity adjusting means for adjusting a quantity of water in a rotatable tub by opening and closing a water-supply valve and a drain valve to increase and decrease the water in the rotatable tub.

20. A washing machine according to claim 19, further comprising a water quantity adjusting key depressibly mounted on the operation panel for providing an operation mode wherein the quantity of water in the rotatable tub can be adjusted and wherein the water quantity adjusting means adjusts the quantity of water in the rotatable tub in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial when the water quantity adjusting key is depressed.

21. A washing machine according to claim 19, wherein the water quantity adjusting means increases or decreases the quantity of water in the rotatable tub by an amount in accordance with the amount of rotative movement of the operating dial.

22. A washing machine according to claim 19, further comprising a display for displaying the quantity of water increased or decreased in the rotatable tub.

23. A washing machine according to claim 19, wherein a maximum increased quantity of water or a maximum decreased quantity of water is set for the case where the quantity of water in the rotatable tub is increased or decreased by the water quantity adjusting means.

24. A washing machine substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.