JP2008119152A - Dishwasher - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To accurately determine the amount of housed dishes and to optimize a washing operation according the amount of the dishes. <P>SOLUTION: On the upper side face of an opening 12a of a washing tub 12, a radiation type object detection means 30 is installed. The radiation type object detection means 30 includes a non-contact type active sensor such as a photoelectric sensor or an ultrasonic sensor and can detect reflected waves from the dishes and hands when the dishes are put into the washing tub 12, and it is recognized that the dishes are housed. By repeating the sequence of detecting the dishes put in the washing tub 12, the total number of the dishes housed in the washing tub 12 finally is counted. The information on the total number of the housed dishes is transmitted to a control means 22 which controls the respective processes of the dishwasher. On the basis of the transmitted dish amount information, the optimum washing operation is performed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a dishwasher for washing dishes stored in a washing tank.

  In a conventional dishwasher, various types of detection of tableware stored in a washing tub have been proposed in order to perform a cleaning operation most suitable for a state such as the amount of tableware stored in the washing tub.

  One is to detect tableware using an optical sensor. For example, there is a table provided with tableware detection means including an optical sensor for measuring the presence or absence of tableware on the left and right side wall surfaces of a washing tank of a dishwasher (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This detecting means is an optical sensor that detects the presence or absence of an object, such as an infrared sensor, a lateral distance sensor, and a photo interrupter. In addition, using these sensors, two stages of tableware detection means are provided in the height direction, so that not only the presence or absence of tableware but also the height direction of the stored tableware, that is, the size can be detected.

In this way, by applying the optical sensor to the tableware stored below the cleaning tank, the amount of stored tableware and the like can be detected, and a cleaning operation most suitable for those states can be performed. Is.
JP 2002-282196 A

  However, in the conventional configuration, the optical sensor is installed below the tableware basket, and when storing the tableware, the optical sensor is always configured to correspond to the stored tableware. There is a problem that the stored tableware may not be detected by the sensor. In other words, the presence or absence of tableware is known to some extent, but there is a problem that the amount of tableware in a strict sense is unknown.

  In addition, although the amount of tableware stored using a plurality of sensors can be detected, the use of a plurality of sensors has the disadvantages of increasing costs and increasing the installation area. In addition, when new tableware is stored in the vicinity of already stored tableware, there is a problem that the detection accuracy of the amount of tableware is not sufficiently good because the tableware may not be detected.

  The present invention solves the problems of the conventional dishwasher as described above. When the tableware is stored in the washing tub, the amount of the tableware is accurately detected, and the optimum condition according to the amount of the tableware is obtained. The purpose is to provide a dishwasher that can be washed in a kitchen.

  In order to solve the above-described conventional problems, the dishwasher of the present invention includes a washing tub having an opening for taking in and out an object to be cleaned such as tableware, a dish basket for storing an object to be cleaned in the cleaning tub, and a washing A control means for controlling the rinsing process and a radiation object detection means for detecting the object to be cleaned stored in the cleaning tank, the radiation object detection means being an object to be cleaned accommodated in the opening; Detecting the blockage, the control means controls the cleaning / rinsing process based on the output signal of the radiation object detection means.

  As a result, the amount of tableware stored can be detected accurately by detecting when the tableware is stored in the washing tub and not being detected after storage. Based on this detected amount of tableware Optimum conditions can be set in the operation control of the dishwasher, and the convenience, accuracy, and reliability for dishwashing are improved.

  The dishwasher of the present invention can accurately detect the amount of tableware stored in the washing tank, and can be washed under optimum conditions.

  1st invention is the washing tank which has an opening part which puts in / out to-be-washed objects, such as tableware, the tableware basket which stores the to-be-washed object in the above-mentioned washing tank, and the control means which controls the process of washing and rinsing, A radiation object detection means for detecting an object to be cleaned stored in the cleaning tank, the radiation object detection means detects that the opening is blocked by the object to be cleaned, and the control means The cleaning and rinsing process is controlled on the basis of the output signal of the radiation type object detection means, so that the time and the amount of detergent are the conditions during the washing and rinsing process, which is the basic operation of the dishwasher. The amount of water, the drive of the motor, etc. can be brought into an optimum state suitable for the amount of the tableware, and the energy saving and reliability of the dishwasher can be reliably improved.

  In the second invention, in particular, the radiation type object detection means of the first invention is a non-contact active sensor such as a photoelectric sensor or an ultrasonic sensor, so that it is detected when the tableware is stored in the washing tank. Thus, the convenience, accuracy, and reliability of the dishwasher can be reliably improved.

  According to the third invention, in particular, the radial object detection means of the first or second invention is provided with a plurality of positions at different distances from the opening, thereby accurately detecting the storage of the tableware. It is possible to improve the convenience, accuracy, and reliability of the dishwasher.

  In the fourth invention, in particular, the radiation object detecting means of the first or second invention is installed outside the washing tank, thereby improving the convenience, accuracy and reliability of the dishwasher. It can be made to.

  The fifth aspect of the invention is particularly provided with a lid that opens and closes the opening of the first or second aspect of the invention, and the radiation object detecting means is installed on the lid so that it can be opened by opening the lid. This can be detected when the tableware is stored in the washing tank from the opened opening, and the convenience, accuracy, and reliability of the dishwasher can be reliably improved.

  In the sixth aspect of the invention, in particular, the radial object detection means of the third aspect of the invention is configured to detect when the tableware is stored because it is configured above the tableware in which the detection area is stored, and is not detected after storage. In addition, by making it possible to more easily detect whether the dish has been put in or out, the basic conditions of the dishwasher, which are the conditions during the washing and rinsing process, time, detergent amount, water amount, motor It is possible to optimize the driving of the dishwasher and improve the energy saving and reliability of the dishwasher.

  In the seventh aspect of the invention, in particular, the radial object detection means of the third aspect of the invention has a configuration in which a plurality of detection areas intersect in the horizontal direction, so that the detection area by the sensor can be widened, and the convenience of the dishwasher , Accuracy and reliability can be improved with certainty.

  The eighth invention, in particular, is provided with determination means for determining the quantity of tableware stored in the washing tank based on the detection signal from the radiation type object detection means of the first invention, so that the stored tableware is provided. Can accurately count the amount of water used in the dishwasher, and improve the convenience, accuracy, and reliability of the dishwasher, and the basic operation of the dishwasher according to the amount of dishwashing. The time, the amount of detergent, the amount of water, the drive of the motor, etc., which are the conditions, can be optimized, and the energy saving and reliability of the dishwasher can be improved reliably.

  In the ninth aspect of the invention, in particular, the determination means of the eighth aspect of the invention measures the time interval of the signal detected by the radial object detection means, and counts the number of dishes when detected for a predetermined time or more. By accurately detecting the amount of tableware when storing the tableware, the amount of stored tableware can be accurately counted, and the convenience, accuracy, and reliability of the dishwasher can be reliably improved. Is.

  In the tenth invention, the judging means of the eighth or ninth invention treats the signals output simultaneously from the plurality of radiating object detecting means as one, thereby installing a plurality of sensors and storing the dishes. By accurately detecting the quantity of tableware at the time, the amount of stored tableware can be accurately counted, and the convenience, accuracy, and reliability of the dishwasher can be reliably improved. .

  Moreover, the detection process of detecting the tableware accommodated of the operation method of a dishwasher, the determination process which determines the amount of dishes after the said detection process, and the said determination result are fed back and the said dishwasher is controlled. A program for causing a computer to execute at least a part of the cleaning / rinsing process is provided.

  And since it is a program, at least a part of the operation method of the dishwasher of this invention can be easily implement | achieved by cooperating hard resources, such as an electrical / information apparatus, a computer, and a server. In addition, the program can be distributed / updated and installed easily by recording on a recording medium or distributing the program using a communication line.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1: shows the schematic structure schematic diagram when the cross section when the dishwasher in the 1st Embodiment of this invention is cut | disconnected by the vertical surface along the front-back direction is seen from the right side. Moreover, FIG. 2 shows a schematic configuration schematic diagram when a cross section when the dishwasher used in the present embodiment is cut along a horizontal plane along the front-rear direction is viewed from the upper surface side. The configuration in the present embodiment will be described below.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 13 denotes a tableware basket for storing tableware 14 or the like to be cleaned, 12 denotes a cleaning tank for storing the tableware basket 13, and 15 sprays cleaning water pressurized by a cleaning pump 17 onto the tableware 14 or the like. A cleaning nozzle is shown. Reference numeral 30 denotes a radiation type object detection means capable of detecting an object, 21 denotes a determination means for processing a signal from the sensor which is the object detection means, and 22 denotes control of washing, rinsing and drying processes of the dishwasher. The control means for doing is shown.

  A cleaning nozzle 15 that constitutes a cleaning means is disposed in the lower part of the cleaning tank 12. The cleaning nozzle 15 is configured to inject upward the cleaning water pressurized by the cleaning pump 17 disposed below the cleaning tank 12. A heater as a heating means 20 is disposed at the bottom of the cleaning tank 12 so as to be positioned below the cleaning nozzle 15. A heater that can control the amount of heat generated by an applied voltage is used. In the washing tank 12, the tableware basket 13 which comprises a tableware mounting body is accommodated so that it can put in and out, and is located above the washing nozzle 15. FIG. The tableware 14 that is the object to be cleaned is placed on the tableware basket 13.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a radiation object detection means 30 is provided on the upper side surface of the opening 12 a of the cleaning tank 12. This radiation type object detection means 30 is composed of a non-contact type active sensor such as a photoelectric sensor or an ultrasonic sensor, and detects the presence of an object by emitting light, an ultrasonic wave or an electromagnetic wave and detecting the reflected wave. Is. The light emitted from the sensor does not detect reflection from the opposite position of the washing tank 12, but when the tableware is put into the washing tank 12, the reflected wave from the tableware or the hand can be detected, and the tableware is stored. It has come to understand that.

  That is, this radiation type object detection means 30 is for detecting the tableware 14 thrown into the washing tank 12 to be placed on the tableware basket 13, and the front part of the washing tank 12 on the opening / closing part 11 side. In the case of FIG. 2, two are arranged at equal intervals. One sensor is disposed on the left side of the central portion in the left-right direction of the cleaning tank 12, and the other sensor is disposed on the right side of the central portion in the left-right direction of the cleaning tank 12.

  FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram when the detection area 40 of the radiation type object detection means 30 including the photoelectric sensor at this time is viewed from the upper surface side of the dishwasher. By configuring such an installation position and detection area of the sensor, it is possible to easily and accurately detect the tableware 14 put in the washing tub 12 to be placed on the tableware basket 13. Moreover, since the sensor is installed at the opening of the washing tub 12 and is configured above the tableware 14 in which the sensor detection area 40 is stored, the stored tableware is not detected, and the cleaning tub 12 is not detected. Since only the tableware 14 thrown into the table can be detected, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection with respect to the tableware insertion detection.

  That is, a plurality of radiant object detection means 30 comprising photoelectric sensors or the like are installed at equal intervals above the opening of the washing tank 12 so that the detection area 40 of the sensor does not hit the tableware 14 stored therein. By being configured, when the tableware 14 is put into the washing tub 12, the tableware or hand can block the opening of the washing tub 12, and the reflected wave can be detected by the sensor, so that the table can be easily and accurately put in. Tableware can be detected.

  The sensor may be installed at any position of the cleaning tank 12 as long as it can detect a hand or tableware when it is put into the cleaning tank 12, and it is non-contact other than the photoelectric sensor and the ultrasonic sensor. An active type sensor may be used.

  The amount of tableware detected in this way is transmitted to the control means 22 for controlling each of the washing, rinsing and drying steps of the dishwasher, and process control corresponding to the amount of tableware is performed. That is, depending on the amount of tableware, it is possible to control the driving of a motor that is driven during washing and rinsing, the amount of water used during washing and rinsing, the amount of detergent used during washing, or the time of washing, rinsing and drying It is.

  The control means 22 controls the washing / rinsing / drying operations of the dishwasher based on the result detected by the radiation object detection means 30. Specifically, if it is determined that the amount detected by the radial object detection means 30 is small, the amount of detergent used during cleaning is reduced, and the amount of water used during cleaning / rinsing is also reduced. The motor that operates during cleaning is weakened so that cleaning, rinsing, and drying times are shortened. When it is determined that the amount of tableware is large as a result of detection in the radiation object detection means 30, the amount of detergent used at the time of cleaning is increased, the amount of water used at the time of cleaning / rinsing is increased, and the operation is performed at the time of cleaning. Set the motor to drive so that the cleaning, rinsing, and drying times are longer. That is, the process control of the dishwasher suitable for the amount of tableware stored in the washing tub 12 can be automatically performed.

  According to the above-described embodiment, the amount of the stored tableware 14 is detected by the radiation object detection means 30 installed at the opening of the washing tank 12, and each process control of the dishwasher is performed based on the detection result. Since it is configured, it is possible to perform automatic control operation that matches the amount of tableware, it is possible to save extra energy, and energy saving can also be realized. Therefore, operation of each process of washing | cleaning, a rinse, and drying can be performed efficiently according to the accommodation amount of the tableware 14 of the washing tank 12. FIG.

  In the above-described embodiment, an example is shown in which two radiation object detection means 30 are used. However, one piece may be used as long as the tableware to be thrown in can be detected to some extent accurately, and process control is performed based thereon. It is also possible to increase the detection area of the radiation object detection means 30.

  The configuration of the present invention is also effective when adding new tableware after the start of the cleaning operation. That is, when there is tableware 14 forgotten to be put in immediately after the operation is started and it is newly put in the washing tub 12, it can be detected by the radial object detection means 30, and it is determined that the amount of tableware has increased. By sending the result to the dishwasher control means 22, the cleaning, rinsing and drying process time is longer than before, a little more detergent is used, and a larger amount of water is used for washing and rinsing. It can be done again.

  In other words, every time the user uses it, the set values for the washing, rinsing and drying processes can be automatically changed according to the amount of tableware loaded, so that the user can be surely washed, rinsed and dried, and the user Can provide a dishwasher that is highly satisfying and can realize energy savings in an optimal time according to the amount of dishes.

  The present invention is not limited to the built-in type dishwasher in which the opening 12a is formed on the upper surface of the washing tub 12, and the washing tub 12 is pulled out and the table ware is taken in and out of the washing tub 12. Well, it can also be applied to dishwashers with drying means.

  With the configuration as described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the object detection means composed of a radiation-type active sensor capable of detecting an object is installed in the opening of the cleaning tank, and the tableware is The amount of tableware is determined by detecting that the opening is blocked during storage, and the basic conditions of the dishwasher, such as time, detergent amount, water amount, motor drive, etc. It is possible to achieve an optimum state according to the amount of the dishes, and to reliably improve the energy saving, convenience and reliability of the dishwasher.

(Embodiment 2)
Next, the dishwasher of 2nd Embodiment is demonstrated, referring drawings. The configuration in this embodiment will be described below in the same manner as in FIG. The description of the same components as those in Embodiment 1 is omitted. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a detection area of the object detection means when the dishwasher used in the present embodiment is viewed from the side.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a radiation object detection means 30 is provided on the upper side surface of the opening 12 a of the cleaning tank 12 and outside the cleaning tank 12. This radiation type object detection means 30 is composed of a non-contact type active sensor such as a photoelectric sensor or an ultrasonic sensor, and detects the presence of an object by emitting light, an ultrasonic wave or an electromagnetic wave and detecting the reflected wave. Is. The ultrasonic wave emitted from the sensor does not detect reflection from the opposite position of the washing tank 12, but when the tableware is put into the washing tank 12, the reflected wave from the tableware or the hand can be detected, and the tableware is stored. It has come to understand that has been done.

  That is, the radiation type object detection means 30 can detect tableware put into the washing tub 12 to be placed on the tableware basket, and the front of the washing tub 12 on the opening / closing section 11 side, the washing tub 12. It is installed outside. Thus, by installing the radiation type object detection means 30 outside the cleaning tank 12, the sensor does not get wet with water, the reliability is improved, and the tableware when stored can be detected accurately.

  The detection area at this time is an area that faces slightly downward so that the upper lid is not detected when the dishwasher is closed, and is preferably an area that does not hit the stored dishes. Tableware at the time of storage can be detected by this radiation type object detection means 30, and the output from this sensor is transmitted to the control means 22 of the dishwasher, and each suitable for the amount of tableware stored in the washing tub 12. Since the operation of the process can be performed, and washing and rinsing are not performed unnecessarily and drying is not performed, it is possible to prevent damage to tableware due to overdrying and to realize energy saving. Also in the second embodiment, the same effect as the first embodiment can be obtained.

  The present invention can also be applied to the case where tableware baskets are installed in two stages in the cleaning tank 12. In this case, it is necessary to prevent the detection area 40 of the radiation object detection means 30 from hitting the tableware stored in the upper stage. In such a configuration, since the amount of tableware stored in the entire washing tank 12 can be detected, the amount of detergent used in the washing process and the rinsing process based on the detection results of the sensors of the radiation type object detection means 30. It is also possible to control the jet pressure of water and water, control the amount of water used during washing and rinsing, or the time of washing, rinsing and drying. Therefore, it is possible to provide a dishwasher that realizes reliable dishwashing in the optimum time and the optimum process according to the amount of tableware stored in the washing tank.

  With the configuration as described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the object detection means composed of a radiation active sensor capable of detecting an object is installed on the upper side surface outside the cleaning tank, This is the basic operation of a dishwasher by forming a detection area that does not hit the stored tableware, and accurately detecting that the opening is blocked when storing the tableware, and determining the amount of stored tableware. Washing and rinsing conditions, such as time, detergent amount, water amount, motor drive, etc., can be optimized to match the amount of dishes, ensuring the energy saving, convenience and reliability of the dishwasher. Can be improved.

(Embodiment 3)
Next, a dishwasher according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a detection region of the object detection means when a cross section when the dishwasher used in the present embodiment is cut along a vertical plane along the front-rear direction is viewed from the left side. The configuration in the present embodiment will be described below. The description of the same components as those in Embodiment 1 is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a lid portion 25 that opens and closes an opening is provided on the front surface of the cleaning tank 12, and a radial object detection means 30 is provided above the lid portion 25. This radiation type object detection means 30 is composed of a non-contact type active sensor such as a photoelectric sensor or an ultrasonic sensor, and detects the presence of an object by emitting light, an ultrasonic wave or an electromagnetic wave and detecting the reflected wave. Is. Infrared rays emitted from these sensors do not detect reflection from the facing position of the lower lid part, but when throwing tableware into the washing tub 12, it is possible to detect reflected waves from tableware and hands. You can see that it was stored.

  That is, this radiation type object detection means 30 can detect the tableware thrown into the washing tub 12 to be placed on the tableware basket, and the lid 25 that opens and closes the opening on the front surface of the washing tub 12. It is what is installed. Thus, by installing the radiation type object detection means 30 in the lid part 25 of the opening / closing part of the cleaning tank 12, the tableware when stored can be accurately detected, and the reliability is also improved.

  By configuring such an installation position and detection area of the sensor, it is possible to easily and accurately detect tableware put into the washing tub 12 for placement on the tableware basket. In addition, the sensor is installed at the lid 25 that opens and closes the opening on the front surface of the washing tub 12, and the sensor detection area 40 does not correspond to the stored tableware. Therefore, the stored tableware is not detected. Since only the tableware put in the washing tank 12 can be detected, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection with respect to detection of the tableware insertion.

  That is, the radiation object detection means 30 comprising a photoelectric sensor or the like is installed in the lid portion 25 that opens and closes the opening on the front surface of the cleaning tank 12, and the detection area 40 of the sensor faces downward, and the stored tableware. By being configured so that it does not hit the table, the tableware and hand block the opening 12a of the cleaning tank 12 when the tableware is put into the cleaning tank 12, and the sensor can detect the reflected wave. It is possible to easily detect tableware that has been thrown in accurately.

  The detection area at this time is an area that faces slightly forward so that it does not cover the washing tub 12 when the lid 25 of the opening of the dishwasher is opened, and does not hit the stored dishes. Is desirable. Tableware at the time of storage can be detected by this radiation type object detection means 30, and the output from this sensor is transmitted to the control means 22 of the dishwasher, and each suitable for the amount of tableware stored in the washing tub 12. Since the operation of the process can be performed, and washing and rinsing are not performed wastefully and drying is not performed, the amount of water and time can be optimally set for each process, and energy saving can be realized. Therefore, also in the third embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the detection region 40 of the radial object detection means 30 is formed outside the cleaning tank, and the tableware passing through the opening can be accurately detected. In such a configuration, since the amount of tableware stored in the entire washing tank 12 can be detected, the amount of detergent used in the washing process and the rinsing process based on the detection results of the sensors of the radiation type object detection means 30. It is also possible to control the jet pressure of water and water, control the amount of water used during washing and rinsing, or the time of washing, rinsing and drying. Therefore, it is possible to provide a dishwasher that realizes energy saving by controlling optimum conditions according to the amount of tableware in the washing tank and reliable dishwashing in a short time.

  With the configuration as described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the object detection means composed of a radiation type active sensor capable of detecting an object is installed on the lid of the opening of the cleaning tank. If the detection area faces downward when the lid is opened, it is possible to accurately detect that the opening has been blocked when storing the tableware, and determine the amount of stored tableware. The basic conditions of washing and rinsing, such as time, detergent amount, water amount, motor drive, etc., can be set to optimal conditions that match the amount of the dishes, saving energy and convenience of the dishwasher The reliability can be improved reliably.

(Embodiment 4)
Next, the dishwasher of 4th Embodiment is demonstrated. The basic configuration of the embodiment of the present invention is the same as that of the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted. In particular, in the configuration of the present invention, an ultrasonic wave that is a non-contact active sensor as the radiation object detection means 30. One sensor is used.

  An operation panel (not shown) is provided at the upper front of the dishwasher body, and an operation switch and a display unit are provided on the operation panel. And in the lower part of the back side of the operation panel, a signal processing determination means 21 for inputting a sensor signal, processing based on the signal and making a determination, and a control means for controlling each of the washing, rinsing and drying steps of dishwashing 22 is provided. This control device is composed of, for example, a microcomputer, and has a control program for controlling the overall operations of the washing / rinsing operation and the drying operation in the dishwasher.

  The operation of the present invention in the dishwasher shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the dishwasher according to the embodiment. The flow in the present embodiment will be described below.

  First, in the dishwasher as shown in FIG. 1, the radiation object detection means 30 is provided on the upper side surface of the opening 12 a of the washing tank 12. The presence of an object can be detected by emitting an ultrasonic wave from the radiation object detection means 30 and detecting a reflected wave thereof. When the opening / closing part 11 of the dishwasher is operated and opened to the front, the washing tank 12 for putting the dishes 14 to be cleaned is pulled out (step S1). The cleaning tank 12 is pulled out, and an ultrasonic wave of about 50 Hz is steadily radiated from the ultrasonic sensor of the radiation type object detection means 30, and the reflected wave is always detected. This ultrasonic sensor does not detect the reflected wave from the position opposite to the cleaning tank 12 or from the surroundings, but can detect the reflected wave from the tableware or hand when the tableware is put into the cleaning tank 12 (step S2).

  In this state, the tableware 14 is put from the upper side of the opening 12a of the washing tank 12 and stored in the tableware basket 13 (step S3). At this time, the ultrasonic wave emitted from the ultrasonic sensor of the radiation type object detecting means 30 is reflected by the tableware 14 put in the washing tub 12 to be placed on the tableware basket 13, and this reflected wave is reflected. It is determined whether or not the ultrasonic sensor has detected the presence or absence of a sensor signal (step S4). If it is determined that the sensor signal of the reflected ultrasonic wave is detected, the ultrasonic sensor detects the tableware 14 put in the washing tub 12 and determines that it is stored in the tableware basket 13 (step S5).

  Based on the determination result, the count of the amount of tableware stored in the washing tub 12 can be increased by one (step S6). By repeating this sequence, the total number of dishes finally stored in the washing tub 12 can be counted. Then, the opening / closing part of this dishwasher is put in the back, and the washing tank 12 is closed (step S7). Thereafter, the operation of the dishwasher can be started (step S8).

  For example, by using a sensor emitting 50 Hz ultrasonic waves and installing one ultrasonic sensor above the opening of the cleaning tank and optimizing the detection area, the object is blocked by the opening. The reflected wave can be detected, and the number of dishes stored in the washing tank can be accurately counted from the sensor signal.

  By adopting the configuration and procedure as described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, an object detection means composed of a radiation-type active sensor capable of detecting an object is installed at the opening of the cleaning tank, By detecting that the opening has been blocked when storing dishes, the amount of stored dishes can be accurately counted and detected, improving the accuracy, convenience and reliability of the dishwasher. It can be made to.

(Embodiment 5)
Next, a dishwasher according to a fifth embodiment will be described. The basic configuration of the embodiment of the present invention is the same as that of the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted. In particular, in the configuration of the present invention, an ultrasonic wave that is a non-contact active sensor as the radiation object detection means 30. Two sensors are used.

  The operation of the present invention in the dishwasher shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the dishwasher according to the embodiment. The flow in the present embodiment will be described below. The description of the procedure in the present embodiment is the same as that in the fourth embodiment, and a description thereof is omitted.

  First, in the dishwasher as shown in FIG. 1, two radial object detection means 30 are installed on the upper side surface of the opening 12 a of the washing tank 12. The presence of an object can be detected by emitting an ultrasonic wave from the radiation object detection means 30 and detecting a reflected wave thereof.

  By repeating the tableware detection sequence put into the washing tub 12, the total number of tableware finally stored in the washing tub 12 can be counted. Thereafter, the washing tub 12 that is pulled out by inserting the opening / closing part 11 of the dishwasher is closed (step S7). Information on the total number of the tableware stored is transmitted to the control means 22 for controlling the washing, rinsing and drying processes of the dishwasher (step S11). Based on the transmitted tableware amount information, the amount of detergent at the time of washing, the amount of water at the time of washing and rinsing, the driving force of the motor, and the time for washing, rinsing and drying are determined (step S12). Thereafter, the operation of the dishwasher can be started (step S13).

  For example, using a sensor emitting 50 Hz ultrasonic waves, two ultrasonic sensors are installed on the upper part of the opening 12a of the cleaning tank 12, and the detection area is optimized, thereby making the opening 12a an object. When this occurs, the reflected wave can be detected, and the number of dishes stored in the washing tub 12 can be accurately counted from the sensor signal. If the ultrasonic sensor detects that the amount of tableware is as small as about 20, the amount of detergent used during washing is less than usual, and the amount of water used during washing and rinsing is also less than usual. Decrease the drive of the motor that operates at the time of cleaning, and set it to shorten the cleaning, rinsing, and drying time.

  If the ultrasonic sensor detects that the amount of tableware is about 40, the amount of detergent used during cleaning is larger than usual, and the amount of water used during cleaning and rinsing is increased. Increase the drive of the motor that operates during cleaning, and set the cleaning, rinsing, and drying times longer. That is, the process control of the dishwasher suitable for the amount of tableware stored in the washing tank 12 can be automatically performed.

  By adopting the configuration and procedure as described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, an object detection means composed of a radiation-type active sensor capable of detecting an object is installed at the opening of the cleaning tank, By detecting that the opening is blocked when storing dishes, the amount of stored dishes can be accurately counted and detected, and each condition during the washing and rinsing process that is the basic operation of a dishwasher It is possible to optimize the time, detergent amount, water amount, motor drive, etc. according to the amount of tableware, and to improve the energy saving, convenience and reliability of the dishwasher. is there.

(Embodiment 6)
Next, a dishwasher according to a sixth embodiment will be described. The basic configuration of the embodiment of the present invention is the same as that of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted. In particular, in the configuration of the present invention, an infrared photoelectric sensor that is a non-contact active sensor is used as the radiating object detection means 30. Two sensors are used.

  The operation of the present invention in the dishwasher shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the dishwasher according to the embodiment. The flow in the present embodiment will be described below. The procedure in the present embodiment is the same as that in the fifth embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.

  First, in the dishwasher as shown in FIG. 1, two infrared photoelectric sensors are installed on the upper side of the opening of the washing tub 12 as the radiation object detection means 30. The presence of the object can be detected by emitting infrared rays from the radiation type object detection means 30 and detecting the reflected light. An infrared ray having a wavelength of about 1000 nm is constantly radiated from the infrared photoelectric sensor of the radiation type object detecting means 30, and the reflected light is always detected.

  This photoelectric sensor does not detect the reflected wave from the position opposite to the cleaning tank 12 or the surroundings, but can detect the reflected light from the tableware or hand when the tableware is put into the cleaning tank 12 (step S2). In this state, the tableware 14 is put from the upper side of the opening of the washing tank 12 and stored in the tableware basket 13 (step S3). At this time, the infrared rays emitted from the photoelectric sensor of the radiating object detection means 30 are reflected by the tableware 14 put in the washing tank 12 to be placed on the tableware basket 13, and this reflected light is reflected by the photoelectric sensor. Is detected. An example of each sensor output signal from the two sensors at this time is shown in FIG.

  If an output signal as shown in FIG. 9A is obtained from the right sensor and (b) is obtained from the left sensor, the time interval Tb of the sensor signal is first measured, and the time interval is determined from a predetermined time T. If it is determined that it is short (step S21), it is determined that it is the same as the next obtained signal (step S22). Next, each time interval Ta of the sensor signal is measured, and when it is determined that the time interval is longer than a predetermined time T (step S23), the photoelectric sensor detects the tableware 14 put in the washing tank 12 and detects the tableware. It is determined that it is stored in the basket 13 (step S24). Based on the determination result, the count of the amount of tableware stored in the washing tub 12 can be increased by one (step S25).

  For example, using a sensor that emits near-infrared rays of 1000 nm, two photoelectric sensors are installed at equal intervals from both sides at the top of the opening of the cleaning tank, and the detection area is optimized. When the object is blocked, the reflected light can be detected. If the predetermined time interval is 1 second and the measured time interval at the sensor output is 0.5 seconds, it is determined that the signal is the same as the next sensor signal. Further, when the measured time interval is 1.7 seconds, it is determined that it is different from the next sensor signal, and it is determined that one tableware has been put into the washing tank. The number of tableware stored in the washing tank can be accurately counted from these sensor signals.

  By repeating such a tableware detection sequence, the total number of tableware 14 finally stored in the washing tub 12 can be counted. Since step S7 and subsequent steps are the same as those in the fifth embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

  By adopting the configuration and procedure as described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, an object detection means composed of a radiation-type active sensor capable of detecting an object is installed at the opening of the cleaning tank, By measuring the time interval from the obtained sensor signal, the amount of stored dishes can be counted and detected more accurately, and the time for each condition during the washing and rinsing process, which is the basic operation of the dishwasher In addition, the amount of detergent, the amount of water, the drive of the motor, etc. can be brought into an optimum state suitable for the amount of the tableware, and the energy saving, convenience and reliability of the dishwasher can be reliably improved.

(Embodiment 7)
Next, a dishwasher according to a seventh embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The configuration in this embodiment will be described below in the same manner as in FIG. The description of the same components as those in Embodiment 1 is omitted. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a detection region of the object detection means when the dishwasher used in the present embodiment is viewed from the upper surface side.

  As shown in FIG. 10, two radial object detection means 30 are provided at the upper end of the opening of the cleaning tank 12. This radiation type object detection means 30 is composed of a non-contact type active sensor such as a photoelectric sensor or an ultrasonic sensor, and detects the presence of an object by emitting light, an ultrasonic wave or an electromagnetic wave and detecting the reflected wave. Is. Infrared light emitted from the sensor does not detect reflection from the opposite position of the washing tub 12, but when tableware is put into the washing tub 12, it can detect reflected light from the tableware or the hand, and the tableware is stored. It has come to understand that.

  In particular, since the detection area 40 of these sensors has an installation position configuration intersecting in the horizontal direction, it is possible to widen the detection area 40 and reduce the blind spot at the time of detection. The detection accuracy can be further improved. Thus, by installing the radiation object detection means 30 at the end of the cleaning tank 12 and forming the detection area 40 in a diagonal line on the opening surface, the tableware when stored is more accurately detected and the reliability is also improved. Can be made.

  The output signal from this photoelectric sensor can be transmitted to the control means of the dishwasher so that each process can be operated in accordance with the amount of dishes stored in the washing tub 12, and washing, rinsing, drying, etc. are performed unnecessarily. Therefore, energy saving can also be realized, and in the seventh embodiment, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained.

  With the configuration as described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the object detection means composed of a radiation type active sensor capable of detecting an object is installed at the upper end of the cleaning tank, and the opening surface This is a basic operation of a dishwasher by accurately detecting the amount of tableware stored by forming a detection area diagonally to the surface and accurately detecting that the opening has been blocked when storing the tableware. -The time, condition, amount of detergent, amount of water, motor drive, etc., which are the conditions for each rinsing process can be brought to the optimum state according to the amount of dishes, ensuring the energy saving, convenience and reliability of the dishwasher. It can be improved.

(Embodiment 8)
Next, a dishwasher according to an eighth embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The configuration in this embodiment will be described below in the same manner as in FIG. The description of the same components as those in Embodiment 1 is omitted. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a detection area of the object detection means when the dishwasher used in the present embodiment is viewed from the right side.

  As shown in FIG. 11, a plurality of radiation object detection means 30 are provided above the opening 12 a of the cleaning tank 12, and are installed at different positions from the opening surface of the cleaning tank 12. By setting such an installation position, the detection area 40 of these sensors can be apparently widened, and the blind spot at the time of detection can be reduced, so that the detection accuracy of tableware detection can be further improved. .

  In this way, by installing a plurality of the radiation object detection means 30 at positions above the cleaning tank 12 at different distances from the opening surface, it is possible to more accurately detect tableware when stored and improve reliability. Can do. Furthermore, the detection area 40 may be formed diagonally on the opening surface by installing the radiation object detection means 30 at the end of the cleaning tank 12.

  The operation of the present invention in the dishwasher shown in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the dishwasher according to the embodiment. The flow in the present embodiment will be described below. The procedure in the present embodiment is the same as that in the seventh embodiment, and description thereof is omitted.

  First, in the dishwasher as shown in FIG. 11, two infrared photoelectric sensors are installed at the upper end of the opening of the washing tub 12 as the radiation object detection means 30 at different distances from the opening surface of the washing tub 12. The detection area is formed diagonally on the opening surface. The presence of the object can be detected by emitting infrared rays from the radiation type object detection means 30 and detecting the reflected light.

  When the tableware is put in, the infrared rays emitted from the photoelectric sensor of the radiation object detection means 30 are reflected by the tableware 14 put in the washing tub 12 to be placed on the tableware basket 13, and this reflected light is photoelectrically reflected. It is detected by the sensor. FIG. 13 shows an example of the sensor output signals from the two sensors and the determination result at this time. Assume that an output signal as shown in FIG. 13A is obtained from the upper sensor and an output signal as shown in FIG. 13B is obtained from the lower sensor. First, it is determined from which sensor the output is obtained from each of these two radial object detection means (step S51). When an output signal is output from either one of the sensors, the time interval of the sensor output is measured as in the seventh embodiment, and the one that can be determined to be the same is set as one output signal (step S52).

  Thereafter, if a sensor signal output is not obtained after a lapse of a predetermined time interval (step S53), the amount of tableware is determined from the signals obtained so far. At this time, it is determined that there is only one signal output from other sensors at the same time, and it is determined that the two photoelectric sensors have simultaneously detected the tableware 14 put into the cleaning tank 12 (step S54). Based on the determination result, the count of the amount of tableware stored in the washing tub 12 can be increased by one (step S55). With such a flow, a determination result as shown in FIG. 13C can be obtained from the sensor output of FIGS. 13A and 13B.

  For example, using a sensor emitting a near-infrared ray with a wavelength of 1000 nm, two photoelectric sensors are installed at the upper end of the opening of the cleaning tank, and the detection area is diagonally intersected with the opening surface. To do. Furthermore, the distance from the opening surface of the cleaning tank is set at a position different from 1 cm and 3 cm, respectively, so that reflected light can be detected when an object blocks the opening. At this time, if output is obtained from either the upper or lower sensor, it is determined that one tableware has been inserted. If output is simultaneously obtained from the upper and lower sensors, one tableware is washed. It is determined that The number of tableware stored in the washing tank can be accurately counted from these sensor signals. By repeating such a tableware detection sequence, the total number of tableware 14 finally stored in the washing tub 12 can be counted. Since step S7 and subsequent steps are the same as those in the seventh embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

  By adopting the configuration and procedure as described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of object detection means composed of radiation-type active sensors capable of detecting an object are installed in the opening of the cleaning tank. By installing at different positions from the opening surface of the cleaning tank and determining that the simultaneous output is the same from the obtained sensor signal, the amount of stored tableware is more accurately counted and detected. The dishwasher can optimize the time, detergent amount, water amount, motor drive, etc., which are the conditions of the washing and rinsing process, which is the basic operation of the dishwasher, according to the amount of the dishwasher. Energy saving, convenience, and reliability can be improved reliably.

  Further, in order to perform the above operation method by the control means of these dishwashers, a unique computer-readable program characterized by recording a program to be executed by the CPU computer is required. The means described in this embodiment is a program for cooperating hardware resources such as a CPU (or microcomputer), a RAM, a ROM, a storage / recording device, an electric / information device including an I / O, a computer, a server, and the like. You may implement with a form. In the form of a program, it is possible to easily distribute / update new functions and install them by recording them on a recording medium such as magnetic media or optical media, or by using a communication line such as the Internet.

  As described above, the present invention provides a tableware stored by installing a sensor composed of a non-contact type active sensor capable of detecting an object at the opening of a cleaning tank and detecting the tableware stored. It is possible to accurately count and detect the amount of water, and according to the amount of dishes, the time, detergent amount, water amount, motor drive, etc., which are the conditions of the washing and rinsing process, which is the basic operation of the dishwasher, are in an optimal state It is possible to improve the energy saving and reliability of the dishwasher, and it is useful for a household dishwasher. Moreover, it can be used not only for home use but also for business use such as offices and factories.

The schematic diagram which looked at the cross section when the dishwasher of the 1st Embodiment of this invention was cut | disconnected by the vertical surface along the front-back direction from the right side. Schematic view of the dishwasher from the top side Schematic showing the detection area of the object detection means when the dishwasher is viewed from the top side The schematic diagram which showed the detection area of the object detection means when the dishwasher of the 2nd Embodiment of this invention was seen from the side surface side The schematic diagram which showed the detection area of the object detection means seeing the cross section when the dishwasher of the 3rd Embodiment of this invention was cut | disconnected by the vertical plane along the front-back direction. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the dishwasher of the 4th Embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the dishwasher of the 5th Embodiment of this invention. The flowchart which shows the process sequence of the dishwasher of the 6th Embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows the sensor output signal from the object detection means of the dishwasher The schematic diagram which showed the detection area of the object detection means when the dishwasher of the 7th Embodiment of this invention was seen from the upper surface side. The schematic diagram which showed the detection area of the object detection means when the dishwasher of the 8th Embodiment of this invention is seen from the right side Flow chart showing processing procedure of the dishwasher The figure which shows the sensor output signal and determination result from the object detection means of the dishwasher

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 12 Washing tank 12a Opening part 13 Tableware basket 14 Tableware 15 Washing nozzle 21 Determination means 22 Control means 25 Cover part 30 Radiation type object detection means 40 Detection area | region

Claims (10)

A washing tub having an opening for taking in and out an object to be cleaned such as tableware, a dish basket for storing the object to be cleaned in the cleaning tub, a control means for controlling a washing / rinsing process, and a tub stored in the cleaning tub A radial object detection means for detecting an object to be cleaned, wherein the radiation object detection means detects that the opening is blocked by the object to be cleaned, and the control means is configured to detect the radiation object. A dishwasher that controls the washing and rinsing process based on the output signal of the detection means. 2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the radiation object detection means is a non-contact active sensor such as a photoelectric sensor or an ultrasonic sensor. The dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a plurality of the radiation type object detection means are installed at different positions from the opening. 3. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the radiant object detection means is installed outside the washing tank. The dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a lid for opening and closing the opening is provided, and the radiation object detecting means is installed on the lid. 4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein the radiation type object detection means is configured above the tableware in which the detection area is stored. 4. The dishwasher according to claim 3, wherein the radiation object detection means has a configuration in which a plurality of detection areas intersect in the horizontal direction. 2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, further comprising a determination unit that determines the number of tableware stored in the washing tank based on a detection signal from the radiation object detection unit. 9. The dishwasher according to claim 8, wherein the determination means measures the time interval of the signal detected by the radiation object detection means, and counts the number of dishes when detected for a predetermined time or more. The dishwasher according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the determination means treats signals output simultaneously from the plurality of radiation object detection means as one signal.

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