JP2003079988A - Washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To appropriately inform the necessity to clean a tub by a tub cleaning information means in accordance with washing conditions. SOLUTION: Information of the necessity to clean a tub can be appropriately made by at tub cleaning informing lamp by making the set value of the frequency of washing operation leading to the operation of a tub cleaning information lamp differ depending on washing conditions such as the use of bath water.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a washing machine equipped with tank cleaning informing means for informing a user of the necessity of cleaning the tank.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a washing machine, especially a washing machine for combined use of dehydration, is provided with an inner tub which is a washing and dehydration tub and an outer tub which is a water storage tub for containing the same. There is a situation that dirt adheres to and accumulates on the outer surface of the tank and the inner surface of the outer tank.

This is an insoluble metal soap in which an anionic surfactant, which is generally contained in detergents used for washing, is combined with metals (cationic) such as calcium and magnesium in the washing water. This metal soap does not adhere to the inner surface of the inner tub due to rubbing due to the laundry being washed, but it does not adhere to the outer surface of the inner tub and the inner surface of the outer tub because it does not rub against the laundry. Because it will be.

On the other hand, in recent years, a washing machine having a function of informing the user of the necessity of washing the tub has been considered. This is to count the number of washing operations and to activate the bath cleaning notification means when the count reaches a set value. Based on the operation of the bath cleaning notification means, the user selects a bath cleaning course. Then, the dirt on the outer surface of the inner tank and the inner surface of the outer tank can be removed.

[0005]

However, the conventional one that informs the user of the necessity of washing the tub as described above is to count the number of washing operations regardless of the washing conditions. For example, although the washing operation is performed under the condition that bath water is used, depending on the washing conditions, the degree of dirt on the tub is large, but regardless of that, the result is simply counted as the number of washing operations. Since the tank cleaning notification means is activated by
There is a problem in that the notification is not properly made, such as the notification of the necessity of tank cleaning being delayed by the tank cleaning notification means.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine capable of appropriately informing the necessity of bath cleaning by the bath cleaning informing means in accordance with the washing conditions. .

[0007]

In order to achieve the above object, the washing machine of the present invention comprises, firstly, a tub cleaning informing means for informing the user of the necessity of tub cleaning, and a washing operation In the one including a counting means for counting the number of times and a control means for activating the tank cleaning notification means when it is determined that the counted number has reached a set value, the control means controls the washing condition in the washing operation. It is characterized in that it has a function of making a judgment, and the set value of the count number for activating the bath cleaning informing means is changed depending on the washing condition (the invention of claim 1).

According to this, the control means changes the set value of the number of times of washing operation up to the operation of the bath cleaning informing means depending on the washing condition, so that the bath cleaning by the bath cleaning informing means is required. Notification can be made appropriately according to the laundry conditions.

Secondly, the washing machine of the present invention is provided with a bath cleaning informing means for informing the user of the necessity of bath cleaning, and a detergent dispenser and the number of times the detergent is dispensed into the bath by the detergent dispenser. A counting means for counting, and a control means for activating the tank cleaning notification means when it is determined that the count number has reached a set value, wherein the control means determines the washing condition in the washing operation. The present invention is characterized in that the set value of the count number for activating the tub cleaning informing means is varied depending on the washing condition (the invention of claim 2).

As described above, it is the anion-type surfactant that is generally contained in detergents used for washing that binds to metals such as calcium and magnesium in the washing water that causes dirt in the tub. This is because the insoluble metal soap is produced by the method, that is, the detergent is used for washing. Therefore, in the case of a machine equipped with a detergent dispenser that dispenses detergent into the tub, instead of counting the number of washing operations, the number of times the detergent dispenser dispenses detergent may be counted.

Therefore, the control means counts the number of times the detergent is thrown by the detergent throwing device, and the set value of the count number for activating the bath washing informing means is changed depending on the washing condition, so that the bath washing is performed as described above. The notification of the necessity of washing the tank by the notification means can be appropriately made according to the washing conditions.

In these cases, it is preferable that the washing conditions include the use of bath water (the invention of claim 3). After bathing, the bath water contains a lot of dirt and bacteria that have fallen off the bather's body, and the degree of dirt in the bath is high. Therefore, by including the use of bath water in the washing conditions that the control unit determines in the washing operation, the set value of the number of times the washing operation is performed to activate the bath washing notification unit, or the number of times the detergent is inserted by the detergent inserter The set value of the count number can be made different depending on the use of the bath water, and accordingly, the necessity of bath cleaning by the bath cleaning notification means can be appropriately notified according to the use of the bath water.

Further, the washing conditions may include an unbalance correction step executed when the rotation of the tub during dehydration is abnormal (the invention of claim 4). If the rotation of the tub is abnormal during dehydration, especially immediately after washing with detergent, the laundry will not be sufficiently dehydrated and a large amount of detergent liquid will remain in the laundry. As a result, the unbalance correction process, which is performed based on the abnormal rotation of the tub, is performed with a large amount of detergent liquid left in the laundry, and extra washing with detergent is required.
Since it is equal to the number of times it has been performed, the degree of progress of dirt in the tank increases.

Therefore, by including the unbalance correction process executed when the rotation of the tub during dehydration is abnormal in the washing conditions determined by the control means in the washing operation, the washing operation leading to the activation of the tub washing informing means The set value of the count number of times or the set value of the count number of the number of times the detergent is put in by the detergent throwing device can be made different by executing the unbalance correction process, so that it is necessary to wash the bath by the bath washing notification means. Notification can be appropriately performed according to the execution of the unbalance correction process.

Furthermore, the washing conditions may include the use of powdered soap (the invention of claim 5). Soap powder is a natural oil and fat, and contains more anionic surfactant than general synthetic detergents. Therefore, the anionic surfactant is likely to combine with a metal such as calcium or magnesium in the wash water to form an insoluble metal soap, which increases the degree of contamination of the tank.

Therefore, by including the use of the soap powder in the washing condition judged by the control means in the washing operation, the set value of the number of times of the washing operation until the tub washing informing means is activated, or the detergent by the detergent throwing device The set value of the count number of the charging number can be made different depending on the use of the powdered soap, so that the bath cleaning notification means can appropriately notify the necessity of bath cleaning according to the use of the powdered soap.

In the case where the washing operation can be executed for each stroke, the control means has a function of judging execution of the detergent washing step, and the counting means counts the number of times when the detergent washing step is executed. It is preferable to do so (the invention of claim 6).

The metallic soap that causes the stains in the bath is produced by the anionic surfactant, which is generally contained in detergents used for washing, combined with metals such as calcium and magnesium in the wash water. Detergent washing process. Therefore, in the case where the washing operation can be executed for each stroke, the control means has a function of judging the execution of the detergent washing step, and the counting means counts the number of times when the detergent washing step is executed, thereby It is possible to accurately count the number of washing operations for operating the washing notification means and the number of times the detergent is put into the detergent by the detergent throwing device. Can be appropriate.

The washing conditions include the use of a neutral detergent,
The control means has a function of judging the use of the neutral detergent,
It is preferable that the counting means does not count the number of times when the neutral detergent is used (the invention of claim 7).

Unlike general detergents, neutral detergents contain non-ionic surfactants, and do not combine with metals such as calcium and magnesium in washing water to form metallic soaps. . Therefore, the control means determines the use of the neutral detergent, and the counting means does not count the number of times when the neutral detergent is used. The number of times and the number of times the detergent is added by the detergent dispenser can be accurately counted, and the notification of the necessity of bath cleaning by the bath cleaning informing means can be appropriately made according to the use of the neutral detergent.

[0021]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. First of all, FIG. 2 shows an outer casing 1 of the washing machine, in particular, a washing machine for combined use of dehydration. The outer casing 1 is composed of an outer box 2 and a top cover 3 mounted on the top of the outer box 2. ing. Top cover 3
Is provided with a laundry entrance / exit 4 at the center thereof, and a lid 5 is provided on the laundry entrance / exit 4 such that the lid 5 is opened by being folded in two. Further, an operation panel 6 is provided on the front part of the top cover 3.
Is provided, and the detergent dispenser 7 is provided at the rear part.

The detergent dispenser 7 is not shown in detail, but
A maximum of a large amount of detergent that is equivalent to one box of commercially available compact detergent, which is a plurality of times of standard washing operation, especially a large number of times, is stored inside, and this stored detergent is driven by the power of a drive source such as a motor. Operation, for example, it is designed to be put out automatically by a detergent discharge member such as a rotated coil,
The input amount is adjusted by adjusting the operation of the detergent dispensing member, for example, adjusting the length of rotation time.

In addition, a tap water receiving port 8 and a bath water receiving port 9 are provided at the rear portion of the top cover 3, and a tap water not shown is connected via a connection hose connected to the tap water receiving port 8. A water supply valve 10 for introducing tap water from the faucet and a water supply pump 11 for sucking bath water from a bathtub (not shown) via a connection hose connected to the bath water receiving port 9 are provided in the rear portion of the top cover 3. (Both are shown only in FIG. 5).

Inside the outer box 2, as shown in FIG.
Are installed. In this case, this tank 12 is composed of a double tank consisting of an outer tank 13 and an inner tank 14, of which the outer tank 1
3 by an elastic suspension mechanism 15 (only a part is shown)
Suspended from above. On the other hand, the inner tub 14 is not only a washing tub but also a dewatering tub. In this connection, the inner tub 14 has a large number of dewatering holes 16 on the peripheral side, and an agitator 17 is rotatably supported on the inner bottom. ing.

A washing / dehydrating drive device 18 is provided below the center of the bottom of the outer tub 13 and outside the center. In this case, the washing / dehydrating drive device 18 is composed of a motor, in particular, an outer rotor type DC brushless motor 19 and a clutch (not shown) built therein, and the like, for washing (detergent washing, rinsing). The inner tank 14 is stopped to rotate the stirring body 17 in both forward and reverse directions, and the inner tank 14 is rotated in one direction together with the stirring body 17 during dehydration.

In addition, the drain port 20 is provided at the bottom of the outer tank 13.
And a drain hose 22 is connected to the drain port 20 via a drain valve 21. It should be noted that the drainage hose 22 shows only the base portion connected to the drainage valve 21, and the tip end portion is located outside the machine, although not shown, so that the drainage hose is drained outside the machine. The clutch of the washing / dehydrating drive device 18 is operated by a drive source composed of a motor with a speed reducer for the drain valve 21 and an electromagnet.

FIG. 4 shows the operation panel 6 in detail. The operation panel 6 is for the user to perform an operation related to the operation of the washing machine, and includes a power switch 23 for turning the power on and off and a detergent washing process and a first rinsing process during the rinsing process. Use of bath water, bath water selection switch 24 for selecting the use, course selection switch 25 for selecting a desired course from "course cleaning", "dry", "washing", and "blanket" , "Memory" course selection switch 26, "Zab Zab" course selection switch 27, "Standard" course selection switch 28,
It has a "friendly" course selection switch 29, a start / pause selection switch 30, a water level selection switch 31, a dehydration process selection switch 32, a rinse process selection switch 33, a detergent washing (washing) process selection switch 34, and a reservation setting switch 35. ing.

Further, the operation panel 6 is provided with display portions 36 to 45 for displaying the selection and setting results of each of the above-mentioned selection and setting switches, and further, tank cleaning notification functioning as tank cleaning notification means. A lamp 46 is provided.

FIG. 5 shows the controller 47. The control device 47 is arranged in the front portion of the top cover 3 (below the operation panel 6) (see FIG. 3), is composed of a microcomputer, and controls the overall operation of the washing machine. It also functions as a counting unit that counts the number of washing operations as described later.

The control device 47 receives various operation signals from the operation input section 48, a rotation detection signal from the rotation sensor 49, and a water level detection signal from the water level sensor 50. Has become. Of these, the operation input unit 48 includes various operation switches 24 to 35 of the operation panel 6, and the rotation sensor 49 rotates the motor 19 of the washing / dehydrating drive device 18, for example.
As a result, the rotation of the inner tank 14 is detected. The water level sensor 50 detects the water level stored in the outer tank 13.

Then, based on those inputs and the control program stored in advance, the control device 47
A tank cleaning notification lamp 46 of the operation panel 6, a display unit 51 including various display units 38 to 45, a drive source 52 of the detergent dispenser 7, a water supply valve 10, a water supply pump 11, a motor 19, and a drain valve 21 are driven. A drive control signal is supplied to a drive circuit 54 for driving the source 53.

Next, the operation of the above structure will be described. When the control device 47 is powered on by the power switch 23 and receives a start command from the start / pause selection switch 30, the control device 47 starts the operation shown in FIG. 6 (start), and first, the washing condition in the washing operation. Then, it is determined whether or not the use of bath water is selected by the bath water selection switch 24 (step S1).

If it is determined in step S1 that the use of bath water is not selected (NO), the amount of laundry is detected (step S2). In this case, the amount of laundry is detected by applying a predetermined electric power to the motor 19 of the washing / dehydrating drive device 18 to rotate the inner tub 14 and reading the detection result of the rotation sensor 49 at this time. The detection result of the rotation sensor 49 varies depending on the amount of laundry stored in the inner tub 14. The larger the amount of laundry stored is, the larger the rotational load of the motor 19 is. The number of times is reduced, and the detection data of the rotation sensor 49 is reduced (on the contrary, the smaller the amount of laundry stored is, the smaller the rotation load of the motor 19 is.
The number of rotations of 9 increases, and the detection data of the rotation sensor 49 increases.) Thus, the amount of laundry is detected from the detection result of the rotation sensor 49.

After that, the steps of throwing in the detergent by the detergent throwing device 7 (step S3), washing with the detergent (step S4), rinsing (step S5), and dehydrating (step S6) are performed according to the detection result of the laundry amount. , Do not use bath water (use tap water). Then, after that, the number of normal washing operations is counted (step S
7), end the operation.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1 that the use of bath water is selected (YES), the rotation sensor 49 detects the amount of laundry as in step S2 (step S8), and thereafter. In addition, according to the detection result, the steps of using the bath water for the steps of throwing in the detergent by the detergent throwing device 7 (step S9), washing with the detergent (step S10), rinsing (step S11), and dehydrating (step S12). Run below. Then, after that, the number of washing operations using bath water is counted (step S13), and the operation is finished.

In FIG. 1, the controller 47 indicates that the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is a result of performing such an operation (counting) many times.
The state of the count up to the actuation of and the number of counts (set value) are shown. That is, the control device 47
Although not shown, whether the count number of the above-mentioned normal washing operation after the end of each operation or before the start of each operation, or the count number of the number of washing operations using bath water has reached the set value In this case, the set value of the number of times of the normal washing operation is 90 times, and the set value of the number of times of the washing operation using bath water is 45 times. is there.

Therefore, the control device 47 judges that the number of times of the normal washing operation has reached 90 times,
Or, the count of the number of washing operations using bath water is 4
If it is judged that the number of times of washing reaches 5, the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is activated, particularly blinked, to notify the user of the necessity of tank cleaning. In this case, when the count of the number of times of the normal laundry operation reaches 90 times, the count of the number of times of the laundry operation using bath water reaches 45 times, or when either of them reaches first, the tank cleaning notification is issued. The lamp 46 is activated. The operation of the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is performed before the start of the next operation after the operation in which the count number reaches the set value.

The user selects the "tank cleaning" course by the course selection switch 25 based on the operation of the tank cleaning notification lamp 46, and executes the course.
It is possible to remove the dirt adhered and deposited on the outer surface of the inner tank 14 and the inner surface of the outer tank 13, especially on the outer surface of the inner tank 14.

When the "tank cleaning" course is executed in this way, the controller 47 resets the operation of the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 and the count for operating the tank cleaning notification lamp 46. . Further, even if the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is activated, if another washing operation is executed without executing the "tank cleaning" course, the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is activated before the start of the next operation. I have to.

As described above, in this configuration, the control device 4
7 changes the set value of the number of times of washing operation up to the operation of the tub cleaning notification lamp 46 depending on the washing condition, whereby the notification of the necessity of tub cleaning by the tub cleaning notification lamp 46 becomes the washing condition. It can be appropriate depending on.

In particular, the use of bath water is mentioned as a different washing condition for the normal washing operation. This is because the bath water after bathing contains a large amount of dirt and miscellaneous bacteria that have fallen off the body of the bather, and when washed with it, the degree of dirt progressing in the tub 12 increases. On the other hand, by including the use of bath water in the washing conditions that the control device 47 determines in the washing operation, the set value of the number of times the washing operation is performed until the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is activated is set to the bath water. Can be made different depending on the use of the bath water, and the notification of the necessity of bath cleaning by the bath cleaning notification lamp 46 is appropriate according to the use of the bath water, that is, without delay with respect to the degree of contamination of the bath 12. it can.

In contrast to the above, FIGS. 7 to 16 show the second to sixth embodiments of the present invention.
The same parts as those of the embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted. Only different parts will be described.

[Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the control device 47 starts operation.
After that, the laundry amount is detected by the rotation sensor 49 in the same manner as in steps S2 and S8 (step S101), and then the detergent is injected by the detergent injector 7 into the inner tub 14 according to the detection result. (Step S10)
2). In addition, in FIG. 7, the operation content of the control device 47 is
This is shown in more detail than that shown in FIG. 6 above.

After this, washing with detergent is executed (step S1).
03), and then draining is performed (step S104). Then, after that, dehydration is started (step S105), and in this situation, it is determined whether or not the rotation of the inner tank 14 is abnormal (step S106). This determination is made in detail, for example, whether or not the rotation speed of the inner tub 14 has risen to the set rotation speed within a predetermined time (in the low speed rotation range) after starting the dehydration (after starting to rotate the inner tub 14). The control device 47 calculates the rotation speed of the inner tank 14 by dividing the detection result of the rotation sensor 49 (the number of rotations of the inner tank 14) by the required time.

If the rotation speed of the inner tank 14 has risen to the set rotation speed within a predetermined time after the start of this dehydration (NO in step S106), the rest of the dehydration process is executed (step S107). The steps of rinsing and dehydration described above are executed (step S108), after which the number of normal washing operations is counted (step S109), and the operation ends.

On the other hand, if the rotation speed of the inner tub 14 has not risen to the set rotation speed within a predetermined time after the start of dehydration (YES in step S106), it means that the laundry in the inner tub 14 is being washed. Since there is a deviation (unbalance) in the distribution, the unbalance correction process is executed (step S110). In this unbalance correction process, for example, water is supplied into the inner tank 14, stirred, and then drained,
It is dehydrated, and makes the distribution of the laundry in the inner tub 14 uniform.

Thereafter, the number of washing operations for which the unbalance correction process is executed is counted (step S111),
After performing the rest of the dehydration process (step S112), the above-described rinsing and dehydration processes are performed (step S11).
3), the operation ends.

In FIG. 8, the control device 47 indicates that the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is a result of performing such an operation (counting) many times.
The state of the count up to the actuation of and the number of counts (set value) are shown. In this case, the set value of the number of times of the normal washing operation is 90, whereas the set value of the number of times of the washing operation that has executed the unbalance correction process is 45.

Therefore, the control device 47 judges that the number of times of the normal washing operation has reached 90 times,
Alternatively, when it is determined that the number of times the washing operation has performed the unbalance correction process has reached 45, the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is activated to notify the user of the necessity of cleaning the tank. Also in this case, when the number of times of the normal washing operation reaches 90 times, or the number of times of the washing operation that executes the unbalance correction process reaches 45 times, whichever comes first. The tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is operated (others are the same as above).

As described above, in the present construction, the execution of the unbalance correction process is mentioned as a different washing condition from the normal washing operation. This is because if the inner tub 14 rotates abnormally during dehydration, especially immediately after washing with detergent, the laundry will not be sufficiently dehydrated and a large amount of detergent liquid will remain in the laundry. As a result, the unbalance correction process, which is performed based on the abnormal rotation of the inner tub 14, is performed with a large amount of detergent solution left in the laundry, and is equivalent to performing the detergent wash once more. This is because the degree of progress of contamination of the tank 12 is increased by this.

On the other hand, the washing condition judged by the control unit 47 in the washing operation includes the unbalance correction process executed when the rotation of the inner tub 14 during dehydration is abnormal, so that the tub washing notification lamp The set value of the number of times of washing operation up to the operation of 46 can be made different by the execution of the unbalance correction process, and the notification of the necessity of the tank cleaning by the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 indicates the unbalance correction process. It can be performed appropriately according to the execution, that is, without causing a delay with respect to the degree of contamination of the tank 12.

[Third Embodiment] In the third embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the "powder soap" course is added to the options of the course selection switch 25 of the operation panel 6 (see FIG. 9). With this configuration, as shown in FIG. 10, the control device 47 determines whether the “powdered soap” course has been selected by the course selection switch 25 as the washing condition in the washing operation after the operation is started (start), that is, the use of the powdered soap. It is determined whether or not is selected (step S201).

If it is determined in step S201 that the "powdered soap" course is not selected (NO), the amount of laundry is detected (step S202), and then the detergent thrower 7
The steps of throwing in the detergent (step S203), washing with the detergent (step S204), rinsing (step S205), and dehydrating (step S206) are executed under the condition that the powdered soap is not used (the synthetic detergent is used). Then, after that, the number of normal washing operation is counted (step S207), and the operation is ended.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S201 that the "powdered soap" course has been selected (YES), the amount of laundry is detected (step S208), followed by washing with detergent (step S209) and rinsing (step). S210),
Each process of dehydration (step S211) is performed under the condition of using soap powder. Then, after that, the number of the washing operation executed in the "powder soap" course is counted (step S212), and the operation is ended. In this case, the user inputs the soap powder.

FIG. 11 shows the result of performing such an operation (counting) many times, and the controller 47 indicates that the tank cleaning notification lamp 4 has been activated.
6 shows the state of counting until 6 is activated and the number of counts (set value). In this case, the set value of the count number of the normal washing operation is 90 times, whereas the set value of the count number of the washing operation executed in the "powder soap" course is 30 times.

Therefore, the control device 47 judges that the number of times of the normal washing operation has reached 90 times,
Alternatively, when it is determined that the number of times of the washing operation executed in the "powder soap" course has reached 30, the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is activated to notify the user of the necessity of tank cleaning. Also in this case, when the count of the number of times of normal laundry operation reaches 90 times, or the count of the number of times of laundry operation executed in the "powder soap" course reaches 30, or whichever comes first Then, the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is operated (other matters are the same as described above).

As described above, in this structure, execution of the "powder soap" course (use of powder soap) is mentioned as a different washing condition with respect to the normal washing operation. Since soap powder is a natural oil and fat and contains more anionic surfactant than general synthetic detergents, the anionic surfactant binds to metals such as calcium and magnesium in washing water. It is easy to make insoluble metal soap by doing,
This is because the degree of contamination of the tank increases.

On the other hand, the washing condition judged by the control device 47 in the washing operation includes the use of the powdered soap (execution of the "powdered soap" course), so that the bath cleaning notification lamp 46
The set value of the number of times the washing operation is performed to activate the can be changed by using the powdered soap,
The notification of the necessity of bath cleaning by the bath cleaning notification lamp 46 can be appropriately performed according to the use of the powdered soap, that is, without delay with respect to the degree of contamination of the bath 12.

It should be noted that, as opposed to the count of the number of normal washing operations, the count of the number of washing operations using the bath water, the count of the number of washing operations performing the unbalance correction process, and the "powder soap" course The counting of the number of washing operations executed in step 1 may be determined not only individually but all together. FIG. 12 collectively shows the state of each count until the control device 47 activates the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 and the number of counts (set value) at that time.

[Fourth Embodiment] In the fourth embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the controller 47 counts the number of times of the normal washing operation described above in step S301 instead of step S7 of FIG. Instead of the above, the number of times the detergent is added in the normal washing operation based on the detergent addition operation in step S3 is counted. Further, in step S302, which replaces step S13 described above, instead of counting the number of washing operations using the bath water, the detergent in the washing operation using the bath water based on the actuation of the detergent in step S9. It is arranged to count by the number of times of charging (see FIG. 13).

Therefore, in this case, the control device 47 functions as a counting means for counting the number of times the detergent is put into the inner tub 14 by the detergent feeder 7. FIG. 14 shows a result of performing such an operation (counting) a large number of times as the control device 47.
Shows the state of the count up to the operation of the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 and the count number (set value). In this case, the set value of the number of times the detergent is put in the normal washing operation is 90 times, whereas the set value of the number of times the detergent is put in the washing operation using the bath water is 45 times. is there.

Therefore, the control device 47 judges that the count number of the detergent injection number in the normal washing operation has reached 90 times, or indicates the detergent injection number in the laundry operation using the bath water. If it is determined that the number of counts has reached 45, the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is operated to notify the user of the necessity of tank cleaning. In this case as well, either the number of times the detergent is added in the normal laundry operation reaches 90 times, or the number of times the detergent is injected in the laundry operation using bath water reaches 45 times. When it reaches the first point, the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 is operated (other matters are the same as described above).

In this way, in this structure, the control device 4
Reference numeral 7 makes the set value of the count number of the number of times the detergent is introduced to activate the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 different depending on the washing condition (in the above case, use of bath water).

As described above, the tank 12 becomes dirty because the anionic surfactant, which is generally contained in detergents used for washing, binds to metals such as calcium and magnesium in the wash water. This is because an insoluble metal soap can be obtained by doing so, that is, a detergent is used for washing. Therefore, in the case where the tank 12 is provided with the detergent throwing device 7 that puts the detergent, the number of times the detergent throwing device 7 puts the detergent may be counted instead of counting the number of washing operations.

Therefore, as described above, the control device 47
By counting the number of times the detergent is put in by the detergent dispenser 7 and making the set value of the number of counts up to the activation of the bath cleaning notification lamp 46 different depending on the washing conditions, the bath cleaning notification lamp 46 can be used for cleaning the bath. The necessary notification can be made appropriately according to the laundry conditions.

In this case, the different washing conditions for the normal washing operation are not limited to the use of bath water, but the imbalance correction to be executed when the rotation of the inner tub 14 during the above-mentioned dehydration is abnormal. It may be a stroke or the execution of a "powdered soap" course (use of powdered soap), etc., and all of them may be carried out (each step counts the number of times of operation, so that the introduction of detergent is counted. Should be set to).

[Fifth Embodiment] In the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 15, washing is performed by selectively operating the detergent washing process selection switch 34, the rinsing process selection switch 33, and the dehydration process selection switch 32 described above. Based on the configuration that the operation can be executed for each step of "detergent washing", "rinsing", and "dehydration", the control device 47 determines whether the "detergent washing step" is selected after the start of operation (start). It is determined (step S401).

If it is determined in step S401 that "detergent washing step" is not selected (NO), another step (rinsing step or dehydration step) is executed (step S).
402), the operation is ended without counting the number of washing operations.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S401 that the "detergent washing process" has been selected (YES),
Next, it is determined whether or not the use of bath water is selected by the bath water selection switch 24 (step S403). If it is determined in step S403 that the use of bath water is not selected (NO), the amount of laundry is detected (step S404), and then the detergent is put into the detergent dispenser 7 (step S405). Then, the detergent washing step (step S406) is executed under the condition that the bath water is not used (tap water is used), and then the number of times of the normal washing operation is counted (step S407), and the operation is ended. To do.

If it is determined in step S403 that the use of bath water is selected (YES), the amount of laundry is detected (step S408), and then the detergent dispenser 7 dispenses detergent (step S409). ), The detergent washing step (step S410) is executed under the condition that the bath water is used, and thereafter, the number of washing operations using the bath water is counted (step S411), and the operation is ended.

As described above, in the present configuration, when the washing operation can be executed for each stroke, the control device 47 determines whether the "detergent washing step" is executed (selected), and the "detergent washing step" is executed. When you do, the number of times in normal laundry operation,
Also, the number of washing operations using bath water is counted.

This is because the metallic soap that becomes the source of stains in the tub 12 is generated because the anionic surface active agent generally contained in the detergent used for washing does not change calcium content or magnesium content in the wash water. Because it is a detergent washing process that combines with metal. Therefore, in this way, when the washing operation can be executed for each stroke, the control device 47 determines whether to execute the "detergent washing step" and counts the number of times when the "detergent washing step" is executed. Thus, it is possible to accurately count the number of washing operations for operating the tank cleaning notification lamp 46, and to appropriately notify the necessity of tank cleaning by the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 according to the execution of the "detergent washing process".

Also in this case, the different washing conditions for the normal washing operation are not limited to the use of bath water, but may be the execution of the above-mentioned "powder soap" course (use of powder soap). , And even all of them.
Further, in any case, instead of counting the number of washing operations, the number of times the detergent is thrown by the detergent feeder 7 may be counted as in the fourth embodiment.

[Sixth Embodiment] In the sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 16, the above-mentioned "dry" course and "press washing" are carried out.
Based on the fact that the course uses a neutral detergent, the controller 47 determines whether the “dry” course or the “push-wash” course has been selected after the start of operation (start), that is, the neutral detergent is selected. It is determined whether or not the course to be used has been selected (step S501).

In step S501, the "dry" course or the "push-wash" course is not selected (NO).
If it is determined that the use of bath water is selected by the bath water selection switch 24 (step S502). If it is determined in step S502 that use of bath water is not selected (NO),
After the amount of laundry is detected (step S503), the detergent input device 7 inputs the detergent (step S504), the detergent washes (step S505), and the rinse (step S50).
6) Each step of dehydration (step S507) is executed under the condition that bath water is not used (tap water is used). Then, after that, the number of normal washing operation is counted (step S508), and the operation is ended.

If it is determined in step S502 that the use of bath water is selected (YES), the amount of laundry is detected (step S509), and then the detergent is put into the detergent dispenser 7 (step S510). ), Washing with detergent (step S511), rinsing (step S512), and dehydration (step S513) are performed under conditions where bath water is used, and then counted by the number of washing operations using the bath water. (Step S514), and the operation ends.

Then, for them, step S501
If it is determined that the “dry” course or the “push-wash” course is selected (YES), the laundry amount is detected only when the “push-wash” course is selected (step S51).
After 5) (if the "dry" course is selected, the amount of laundry is not detected and only water is supplied), followed by washing with detergent (step S516), rinsing (step S517),
Each process of dehydration (step S518) is executed, and thereafter, the operation is ended without counting the number of washing operations. In this case, the user inserts the neutral detergent.

As described above, in the case of this construction, the use of the neutral detergent is set as the washing condition, the control device 47 judges the use of the neutral detergent, and when the neutral detergent is used, the number of times is counted. I try not to.

Unlike ordinary detergents, neutral detergents contain nonionic surfactants and do not bind to metals such as calcium and magnesium in the washing water and cannot form metal soaps. . Therefore, the control device 47 determines whether the neutral detergent is used and does not count the number of times when the neutral detergent is used. Can be accurately counted, and accordingly, the tank cleaning notification lamp 46 can appropriately notify the necessity of tank cleaning depending on the use of the neutral detergent.

Also in this case, the different washing conditions for the normal washing operation are not limited to the use of bath water, and the imbalance executed when the rotation of the inner tub 14 during the above-described dehydration is abnormal. It may be a correction process, or a "powder soap" course is performed (use of powder soap), or all of them. Further, in any case, instead of counting the number of washing operations, the number of times the detergent is thrown by the detergent feeder 7 may be counted as in the fourth embodiment. In addition, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and shown in the drawings, and may be appropriately modified and implemented without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0081]

As described above, according to the washing machine of the present invention, the tub cleaning informing means can appropriately notify the necessity of tub cleaning according to the washing conditions.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a count state of each washing operation and a count number of each washing operation until a tub washing informing means is activated, showing a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the entire washing machine

FIG. 3 is a cutaway side view of the entire washing machine.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged plan view of the operation panel.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an electrical configuration.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation.

FIG. 7 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 6 showing a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a view equivalent to FIG.

FIG. 9 is a view corresponding to FIG. 4, showing a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a view corresponding to FIG.

FIG. 11 is a view equivalent to FIG.

FIG. 12 is a view corresponding to FIG. 1 showing an example in which the first to third embodiments are integrated.

FIG. 13 is a view corresponding to FIG. 6 showing a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a view equivalent to FIG.

FIG. 15 is a view corresponding to FIG. 6 showing a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a view corresponding to FIG. 6 showing a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

7 is a detergent dispenser, 9 is a bath water receiving port, 11 is a water supply pump,
12 is a tank, 13 is an outer tank, 14 is an inner tank, 24 is a bath water selection switch, 25 is a course selection switch, 32 is a dehydration process selection switch, 33 is a rinse process selection switch, 34 is a detergent washing process selection switch, 46 Is a tank cleaning notification lamp (tank cleaning notification means), 47 is a control device (control means, counting means), and 49 is a rotation sensor.

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A washing means for notifying a user of the necessity of washing the tank, a counting means for counting the number of washing operations, and a place where it is determined that the counted number has reached a set value. The control means for activating the tub cleaning informing means, wherein the control means has a function of judging a washing condition in the washing operation, and the count number for activating the tub cleaning informing means according to the washing condition. A washing machine characterized by different setting values. 2. A bath cleaning informing means for informing a user of the necessity of bath cleaning, a detergent dispenser, a counting means for counting the number of times of the detergent dispensed into the bath by the detergent dispenser, and a count thereof. In the one provided with the control means for activating the tank washing notification means when it is determined that the number has reached the set value, the control means has a function of determining the washing condition in the washing operation, and depending on the washing condition. A washing machine characterized in that the set value of the count number for activating the bath cleaning notification means is changed. 3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the washing conditions include use of bath water. 4. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the washing condition includes an unbalance correction step executed when the rotation of the tub during dehydration is abnormal. 5. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the washing conditions include the use of powdered soap. 6. The washing operation can be executed for each stroke, the control means has a function of judging execution of the detergent washing step, and the counting means counts the number of times when the detergent washing step is executed. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2. 7. The washing condition includes the use of a neutral detergent, the control means has a function of judging the use of the neutral detergent, and the counting means counts the number of times when the neutral detergent is used. 3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the washing machine does not count.