JP2014028014A - Washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To effectively utilize outside stored water by suppressing the usage of tap water in performing a washing operation by using outside stored water.SOLUTION: A washing machine of this embodiment includes: a control means for executing a washing operation including a washing step and following one or more times of rinse steps sequentially according to an operation course to be set; a tap water supply means for supplying tap water into a washing tub; a water supply pump for supplying outside stored water stored in an outside water storage source into the washing tub; and a detection means for detecting whether the outside stored water is in a state capable of supplying water or not. At the same time a using-up course is provided in the operation course which executes each step in the washing operation using the outside stored water continuously until a used-up state in which the supply of outside stored water becomes impossible is detected by the detection means.

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a washing machine.

  In recent years, for example, some home-use washing machines are provided with a water supply pump for pumping up remaining hot water from a bath and supplying the water into a washing tub. In this washing machine, when the bath water course is selected by the operation of the user's operation panel, the bath water remaining in the bathtub is pumped by the water supply pump and supplied to the washing tub, so that the washing process and the user set it. The number of times of rinsing (one or two times) can be executed (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

  In this case, the bath water in the bathtub may be lost during the washing operation using the bath water. Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses that when the bath water runs out during the rinsing process, the rinsing process is continued by switching to tap water supply. Patent Document 2 discloses that after the rinsing process using bath water is completed, the final rinsing process using tap water is performed.

Japanese Patent No. 3317623 Japanese Patent No. 3162958

  By the way, the amount of the bath water remaining in the bathtub is not always constant, and the user does not know how many times the rinsing process can be performed with the remaining bath water. Therefore, when the user sets the number of times of rinsing in the bath water course, the user may set the number of times of rinsing more or less than the remaining amount of bath water. However, if the number of times of setting is increased, the bath water will run out before the number of times of setting and the process of rinsing with tap water will continue, so there is a risk that a large amount of tap water will be used beyond the user's assumptions. was there. On the other hand, if the number of times of setting is reduced, bath water may remain and the user may find it unnecessary.

  Then, when performing the washing operation using external stored water, the washing machine which suppresses use of tap water and can utilize external stored water effectively is provided.

  The washing machine according to the embodiment includes a control unit that sequentially executes a washing operation and a washing operation including one or more subsequent rinsing steps according to a set operation course, and tap water is washed in a washing tub. Tap water supply means for supplying water, a water supply pump for supplying external storage water stored in an external storage source into the washing tub, and detection for detecting whether or not the external storage water can be supplied And the washing course using the external storage water is continued until a use-up state in which the supply of external storage water becomes impossible is detected by the detection means in the operation course. It is characterized by providing a single-use course to be executed.

The 1st Embodiment is shown and the outline vertical right side view of a washing machine Front view of the operation panel Block diagram schematically showing the electrical configuration Flow chart showing the procedure for setting the bath water course The flowchart which shows the processing procedure of the washing operation which a control device performs at the time of a use-up course setting Flow chart showing the procedure for displaying the remaining time Diagram showing remaining time table FIG. 5 equivalent view showing the second embodiment; FIG. 2 shows the third embodiment and is equivalent to FIG. FIG. 4 equivalent view showing the third embodiment FIG. 6 equivalent view showing the fourth embodiment

Hereinafter, some embodiments applied to a drum type (horizontal shaft type) washing machine will be described with reference to the drawings.
(1) First Embodiment First, a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 has an outer box 2 having a substantially rectangular box shape. A cylindrical water tank 3 is supported in the outer box 2 via an elastic support mechanism (not shown) in a state where it is inclined downward. A cylindrical drum 4 as a washing tub in which clothes (laundry) is accommodated is rotatably supported in the water tub 3. The drum 4 is configured to rotate about an inclination axis O that extends in the front-rear direction and is inclined rearwardly downward.

  A number of holes 5 for water passage and ventilation are formed in the peripheral wall portion of the drum 4, and a plurality of baffles 6 for stirring the laundry are shown on the inner surface of the peripheral wall portion of the drum 4 (only one is shown). Is provided. Further, a plurality of vent holes (not shown) are provided in the rear wall portion of the drum 4. An opening 7 through which clothes are put in and out is provided on the front surface of the drum 4. On the front surface of the outer box 2, a loading port 8 for taking in and out clothes is formed so as to be continuous with the opening 7, and a door 9 for opening and closing the loading port 8 is provided.

  A motor 10 made of, for example, an outer rotor type brushless motor is disposed at the rear of the water tank 3. The tip of the rotating shaft 10 a of the motor 10 penetrates the back surface of the water tank 3 and projects into the water tank 3, and is connected and fixed to the center of the rear part of the drum 4. With this configuration, the drum 4 is directly rotated by the motor 10. The motor 10 is provided with a rotation sensor 11 (shown only in FIG. 3) for detecting the rotation position and rotation speed of the motor 10.

  An operation panel 31 is provided on the front upper portion of the outer box 2. The operation panel 31 is provided with, for example, various keys for selecting various driving courses and starting driving, and details will be described later. Further, a control device 12 serving as a control means is provided on the back side of the operation panel 31. The control device 12 is mainly composed of a computer (CPU), and controls the overall operation of the washing machine 1 based on various input signals and previously stored control programs.

  A water injection case 13 is provided in the upper part of the outer box 2 so as to be located at the front side portion, and this water injection case 13 is connected to the front upper part of the water tank 3 through a water supply hose 14. Although not shown in the drawing, the water injection case 13 is provided with a detergent charging part, and detergents (detergents, softeners, bleaching agents, etc.) are previously charged in the detergent charging part. These detergents are supplied into the water tank 3 together with tap water or bath water.

  An electromagnetic water supply valve 15 serving as a tap water supply means for supplying tap water to the water tank 3 is provided on the rear side of the upper portion in the outer box 2, and a water supply pump 16 is provided. Yes. The inlet side of the water supply valve 15 is connected to a tap faucet (not shown), and the outlet side of the water supply valve 15 is connected to the water injection case 13 by a tap water supply hose 17. Thus, when the water supply valve 15 is turned on, tap water is supplied to the water injection case 13 through the tap water supply hose 17 and supplied into the water tank 3 (drum 4) through the water supply hose 14. .

  Although not shown, the water supply pump 16 has a bath water hose connected to the inlet side thereof, and the end of the bath water hose is stored in a bathtub as an external water storage source. Arranged to be submerged. The outlet side of the water supply pump 16 is connected to the water injection case 13 by a bath water supply hose 18. In addition, one end side of the priming hose 19 is connected to the water supply pump 16, and the other end side of the priming hose 19 is connected to the tap water path of the water injection case 13. Thus, when the water supply pump 16 is driven, bath water in the bathtub is pumped up, supplied to the water injection case 13 through the bath water supply hose 18, and the water tank 3 (drum 4) through the water supply hose 14. Supplied in.

  On the other hand, a drain port 20 is formed at the rear end of the bottom of the water tank 3, and one end of a drain hose 21 is connected to the drain port 20. A drain valve 22 is provided in the middle of the drain hose 21. The other end of the drain hose 21 is connected to a drain hole of a waterproof pan (not shown). Thus, the water in the water tank 3 can be discharged out of the apparatus by the ON operation of the drain valve 22. Although not shown, an air trap that communicates with the inside of the water tank 3 is provided at the lower rear surface of the water tank 3, and this air trap is disposed at the upper part in the outer box 2 via an air tube (see FIG. 3 only).

  Although not shown in detail, a drying mechanism 24 for supplying warm air into the water tub 3 to dry the laundry in the drum 4 (performs a drying operation) (see FIG. 3). Reference) is provided. The drying mechanism 24 includes, for example, a ventilation duct for circulating hot air to the water tank 3, a blower fan, and a heater. Or it can replace with a heater and can also be set as the drying mechanism 24 which provided the heat pump (cooling cycle) and added the dehumidification function.

  FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the operation panel 31 in the present embodiment. However, for the sake of convenience, portions relating to the drying operation are omitted. The operation panel 31 is provided with a power-on key 32 and a power-off key 33. Further, a start key 34 for starting the selected operation and each process, and a remaining time display unit 42 for displaying a guide for the remaining time of the washing operation are provided. Furthermore, an automatic course selection key 35 for selecting one of the courses of automatic operation using tap water and a course display section 43 for displaying the selected (set) course are provided.

  Further, the operation panel 31 is provided with a washing key 36, a rinsing key 37, and a dehydrating key 38 for manually setting each process of the washing operation, and a washing time display unit for performing necessary display at that time, respectively. 44, a rinse count display section 45, and a dehydration time display section 46 are provided. A water level key 39 for manually setting the water level and a water level display unit 47 for displaying the water level are also provided.

  And, as will be described later, the operation panel 31 is an external water supply course for executing each process using bath water as external reservoir water up to a set number of times of rinsing (0 times, 1 time, 2 times). A bath water key 40 for selecting (setting) any of the bath water courses and a bath water course display section 48 for displaying the set bath water courses are provided. Further, in the present embodiment, an all bath water key 41 for setting a single use course, which will be described later, and an all bath water display section 49 for displaying that the single use course has been set are provided. At this time, the all bath water key 41 is a dedicated key for setting a single-use course.

  FIG. 3 schematically shows the electrical configuration of the washing machine 1 centering on the control device 12 described above. The control device 12 is supplied with the power supply 25 through the power supply relay circuit 26 based on the operation of the power-on key 32. The control device 12 is given an operation signal for the power-off key 33. The control device 12 controls the water supply valve 15, the drain valve 22, the water supply pump 16, and the motor 10. The control device 12 is provided with detection signals from the rotation sensor 11 and the water level sensor 23.

  Further, the control device 12 receives operation signals from the keys 34 to 41 of the operation panel 31 described above, and the control device 12 controls the display of the display units 42 to 49 of the operation panel 31. It has become. Further, the control device 12 controls the buzzer 27 for notification and the drying mechanism 24. A non-volatile memory 28 is connected to the control device 12. The non-volatile memory 28 stores a remaining time table (see FIG. 7) made up of data necessary for display of the remaining time display section 42, and also stores an operation history when a use-up course is set. It has become so.

  With the above configuration, the control device 12 controls each mechanism of the washing machine 1 based on an input signal from each sensor or a pre-stored control program in accordance with an operation course set by the user on the operation panel 31. It is controlled and automatically performs a well-known washing operation including washing, rinsing and dehydration processes, and a subsequent drying operation. Moreover, the control apparatus 12 controls the display of the remaining time display part 42 of the operation panel 31 based on the remaining time table of FIG. 7 during a washing operation.

  At this time, when the automatic course selection key 35 is operated on the operation panel 31, any one of automatic driving courses using tap water (usually, leaving, rapid, memory, dry, blanket) depending on the number of operations. Is selected. In this case, the normal course (course that automatically executes the steps of washing (12 minutes), rinsing twice, and dehydration (4 minutes)) is set as a default setting. If there is no user operation, the normal course is automatically set. Is set automatically. In addition, the user can execute only a part of the stroke by operating the washing key 36, the rinsing key 37, and the dehydrating key 38, or manually set the contents (time and number of times) of each stroke.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the washing process, for example, 12 minutes of washing is performed by forward and reverse rotation of the drum 4 at low speed after water is supplied to the water level in accordance with the amount of laundry into the water tank 3. Is done. In one rinsing process, draining from the water tank 3, rotating the drum 4 at high speed, for example, dehydrating and rinsing for 5 minutes, supplying water to the water tank 3 to a predetermined water level, and rotating the drum 4 at normal speeds at low speeds, for example, 2 minutes Rinsing is performed. In the dehydration process, after draining from the water tank 3, for example, dehydration is performed for 4 minutes by rotating the drum 4 at a high speed.

  Then, as will be described later in the explanation of the operation (flowchart explanation), the user operates the bath water key 40 or all the bath water key 41 of the operation panel 31 to perform a washing operation course using bath water (bath water). Course, single use course) can be set.

  When the bath water key 40 is operated and a bath water course, which is an external water supply course, is set (selected), a course in which only the washing process is performed with bath water according to the number of presses (rinsing process (for example, twice) The course in which the washing process and the first rinsing process are performed with bath water (the second rinsing process is performed with tap water), the washing process and the first and second rinsing processes One of the courses with bath water is set and executed. In this case, when the bath water runs out on the way regardless of the setting, it is switched to tap water. After the rinsing process, a dehydration process is performed.

  On the other hand, when the bath water all key 41 is operated on the operation panel 31 and the use-up course is set (selected), one or more rinsing steps from the washing step until the bath water is used up, that is, This is executed until water supply by the water supply pump 16 becomes impossible. At this time, the control device 12 activates the water supply pump 16 and starts a predetermined time (for example, 4 minutes), and then operates for a fixed time (30 seconds). The degree of increase in the water level detected by the water level sensor 23 is a threshold value. When it is less than, it is detected that the bath water has run out (it is used up). Therefore, the control device 12 functions as a detection unit together with the water level sensor 23 and the like.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the use-up course is executed, one additional rinsing process (final rinsing process) using tap water is automatically added after the bath water use-up state is detected, It is supposed to be executed. Of course, after the final rinsing process, the dehydration process is performed.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the display of the remaining time display unit 42 during execution of the use-up course is controlled by the history of the previous use-up course stored in the non-volatile memory 28, that is, the rinsing process that was operated at the time of execution of the use-up course. Based on the number of times (including the final rinsing process), the remaining time table of FIG. 7 is used. As a method of using history data, it is assumed that the rinsing process is executed this time as many times as the previous rinsing process, or the average value (or median, mode) of the number of rinsings in the most recent single use course is used. Various modes such as adoption are conceivable.

  Next, the operation of the washing machine 1 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS. When a washing operation is executed in the washing machine 1, the user puts clothes into the drum 4, sets detergent or the like in the detergent throwing unit, and selects a course by operating the operation panel 31. Now, when the user wants to execute a washing operation using bath water, one of the operation courses in which the bath water is used by operating the bath water key 40 or all the bath water keys 41 of the operation panel 31 is set. After that, the start key 34 is turned on.

  The flowchart of FIG. 4 shows the course setting process executed by the control device 12 when the bath water key 40 of the operation panel 31 is operated (a) and when all the bath water keys 41 are operated (b). Is shown.

  First, in the flowchart of FIG. 4A, when the bath water key 40 is operated, it is determined in step S1 whether any bath water course has already been set. When there is no bath water setting (Yes in step S1), a bath water course in which only the washing process is performed with bath water is set in step S2. At this time, as shown in FIG. 2, the “wash” display is lit on the course display section 46 of the operation panel 31.

  If any bath water course has already been set when the bath water key 40 is operated (No in step S1), is the bath water course only for the washing process set in step S3? Judgment is made. If it is a bath water course only for the washing process (Yes in step S3), a course bath water course for performing the washing process and the first rinsing process with bath water is set in step S4. At this time, the “rinse 1” display is lit on the course display section 46 of FIG.

  When the bath water course set when the bath water key 40 is operated is not the bath water course only for the washing process (No in step S3), the washing process and the first time are performed in step S5. It is determined whether or not a rinse water bath course is set. In the case of the bathing water course of the washing process and the first rinsing process (Yes in step S5), the bath in which the washing process and the first and second rinsing processes are performed with bath water in step S6. A water course is set up. At this time, the “rinse 2” display is turned on in the course display section 46 of FIG.

  If the bath water course set when the bath water key 40 is operated is not the bath water course for the washing process and the first rinsing process (No in step S5), the bath is used in step S7. Returned without setting water course. At this time, the course display unit 46 in FIG. 2 is turned off. Therefore, if the user operates the bath water key 40 once, the bath water course for only the washing process is set, and if the user operates the bath water key 40 twice, the bath water for the washing process and the first rinsing process is set. If a course is set and the bath water key 40 is operated twice, a bath water course in which the washing process and the first and second rinsing processes are performed with bath water is set.

  On the other hand, in the flowchart of FIG. 4B, when all the bath water keys 41 are operated, it is determined in step S8 whether a use-up course has already been set. If there is no set-up course (Yes in step S8), a used-up course is set in step 92. At this time, as shown in FIG. 2, the display of all the bath water display section 48 of the operation panel 31 is turned on.

  When all the bath water keys 41 are operated, if a single-use course has already been set (No in step S8), the single-use course setting is canceled in step S10. At this time, the display of all the bath water display section 48 on the operation panel 31 is turned off. Therefore, every time the user operates all the bath water keys 41, the setting of the use-up course and the cancellation of the setting are repeated. In the present embodiment, when a single-use course is set, one additional rinsing process using tap water is automatically added, and therefore, as shown in FIG. “After bathing” lights up and once is displayed.

  Next, the flowchart of FIG. 5 mainly shows a procedure for controlling the washing operation executed by the control device 12 when a single-use course using bath water is set. When the start key 34 is turned on, first, in step S11, it is determined whether or not the washing process is set to be performed using bath water. If bath water is set (Yes in step S11), the priming water supply operation to the water supply pump 16 is performed in step S12, and in the next step S13, the bath to the water tank 3 by the water supply pump 16 is performed. Water supply is executed.

  In step S14, it is determined whether there is an abnormality in the bath water supply. Here, as described above, when it is detected that the bath water has run out (it is used up), it is determined that there is an abnormality (Yes in step S14), and the setting of the bath water is set in step S15. Cleared. If there is no abnormality (No in step S14), it is determined in step S16 whether the target water level has been reached. If the target water level has not been reached (No in step S16), the process returns to step S13 to continue the supply of bath water. If the target water level has been reached (Yes in step S16), the process proceeds to step S19.

  If the bath water is not set (No in step S11) and if the bath water setting is cleared in step S15, the process proceeds to step S17, and tap water is supplied from the water supply valve 15. Water supply is executed. In step S18, it is determined whether or not the target water level has been reached. If the target water level has not been reached (No in step S18), the process returns to step S17 to continue the tap water supply to reach the target water level. If it has reached (Yes in step S18), the process proceeds to step S19.

  In step S19, a washing process is executed. When washing for a predetermined time is completed, the process proceeds to the rinsing process. In the first rinsing process, drainage from the water tank 3 is first performed in step S20, and first dehydration rinsing is performed in step S21. In the next step S22, it is determined whether or not the setting for performing the rinsing process using bath water is made. When there is a setting for bath water (Yes in step S22), the operation of priming water supply to the water supply pump 16 is performed in step S23, and in the next step S24, the bath to the water tank 3 by the water supply pump 16 is performed. Water supply is executed.

  In step S25, it is determined whether there is an abnormality in the bath water supply. Here, as described above, when it is detected that the bath water has run out (it is used up), it is determined that there is an abnormality (Yes in Step S25), and the setting of the bath water is set in Step S26. Cleared. If there is no abnormality (No in step S25), it is determined in step S27 whether the target water level has been reached. If the target water level has not been reached (No in step S27), the process returns to step S24 to continue the supply of bath water. If the target water level has been reached (Yes in step S27), the process proceeds to step S30.

  If the bath water has not been set (No in step S22) and if the bath water setting has been cleared in step S26, the process proceeds to step S28, and tap water by the water supply valve 15 is reached. Water supply is executed. In step S29, it is determined whether or not the target water level has been reached. If the target water level has not been reached (No in step S29), the process returns to step S28 to continue the tap water supply to reach the target water level. If it has reached (Yes in step S29), the process proceeds to step S30.

  In step S30, the rinsing process is executed, and when the rinsing process is completed for a predetermined time, the rinsing process is completed and the process proceeds to the next rinsing process. Also in the next rinsing process, drainage from the water tank 3 is first performed in step S31, and dehydration rinsing is performed in step S32. In the next step S33, it is determined whether or not the bath water setting has been cleared. If the bath water setting has not yet been cleared (No in step S33), the processing from step S23 is repeated, and a series of processes of the rinsing process using bath water is repeated.

  As the rinsing process is repeated in this manner, the bath water stored in the bathtub eventually disappears (Yes in step S25), and the bath water setting is cleared in step S26. Then, when step S33 is reached next, it is determined that the bath water setting has been cleared (Yes in step S33). In this case, water supply to the target water level using tap water is executed (steps S34 and S35). When the target water level is reached (Yes in step S35), the final rinse using tap water is performed in step S36. The (additional rinsing) process is executed. Thereafter, drainage is performed (step S37), a dehydration process is performed (step S38), and the washing operation is completed.

  The flowchart in FIG. 6 shows which table is used to display the remaining time in the remaining time table in FIG. 7 in order for the control device 12 to perform display control of the remaining time display unit 42 during the execution of the washing operation. The processing procedure for selecting (setting) is shown. The remaining time table in FIG. 7 shows the relationship between the standard execution time of each process and the remaining time in each process, and the control device 12 corresponds to the current process in this remaining time table. The remaining time can be displayed on the remaining time display unit 42.

  7A is a table with four rinse strokes, FIG. 7B is a table with three rinse strokes, FIG. 7C is a table with two rinse strokes, and FIG. 7D. FIG. 7E shows an example of a table when there is no rinsing process (only a washing process and a dehydrating process). For example, in the case where the rinsing process of FIG. 7C is two times and the first water supply of the washing process is currently performed, the corresponding remaining time is “41 minutes”, and this number is displayed as the remaining time. It is displayed on the part 42.

  In FIG. 6, first, in step S40, it is determined whether or not the set driving course is a single use course. If a single-use course is set (Yes in step S40), a remaining time table is selected in step S41 based on the number of times the driving history has been rinsed. In this case, in selecting the remaining time table, for example, in the previous single-use course, if the rinsing process (including the final rinsing process) was three times, a table with three rinsing processes (see FIG. 7 ( A method of selecting b)) can be employed. An average value (or median or mode) of the number of times of rinsing at the time of execution of the most recent single-use course can also be adopted.

  On the other hand, when the use-up course is not set, that is, when the driving course in which the number of rinsing steps other than the use-up course is fixed is set (No in step S40), the process proceeds to step S42. It is determined whether the rinsing process is a single driving course. When the rinsing process is a single driving course (Yes in step S42), a table (FIG. 7 (d)) in which the rinsing process is one time is set in step S43. If the rinsing process is not a one-time driving course (No in step S42), it is determined in step S44 whether the rinsing process is a two-time driving course. When the rinsing process is a two-time driving course (Yes in step S44), a table (FIG. 7C) with two rinsing processes is set in step S45.

  Similarly, if the rinsing process is not a two-time driving course (No in step S44), it is determined in step S46 whether the rinsing process is a three-time driving course. When the rinsing process is a three-time driving course (Yes in step S46), a table (FIG. 7B) with three rinsing processes is set in step S47.

  If the rinsing process is not a driving course of 3 times (No in step S46), it is determined in step S48 whether the rinsing process is a driving course of 4 times. When the rinsing process is a four-time driving course (Yes in step S48), a table (FIG. 7A) with four rinsing processes is set in step S49. If the rinsing process is not a four-time driving course (No in step S48), a table (FIG. 7 (e)) having no rinsing process is set in step S50.

  Note that the remaining time can be displayed on the remaining time display unit 42 with relatively high reliability even when a single-use course in which the number of rinsing steps has not been determined is being executed. However, there may be a case where the number of rinsing steps increases or decreases from the number of times expected from the past history. When it is found that the number of rinsing steps increases or decreases from the expected number, the remaining time table to be used may be switched. In this case, as shown in FIG. 2, if the time display is switched after the “reviewing” lamp of the remaining time display section 42 is turned on (or flashes), the user feels uncomfortable. can do.

  Thus, according to the present embodiment, a single-use course is provided in which the rinsing process is repeatedly performed until the bath water is used up. As a result, when a single-use course is set by the user, the bath water stored in the bathtub is supplied into the water tank 3 by the water supply pump 16, and the washing operation including the washing process and one or more subsequent rinsing processes is performed. Is executed. At this time, unlike the case where the number of times of rinsing is set in advance, each process of the washing operation using the bath water is continuously performed until the use-up state where the supply of the bath water becomes impossible is detected. As long as can be supplied, the rinsing process can be performed any number of times.

  Therefore, the bath water can be used without excess and deficiency, and it is possible to prevent the use of a large amount of tap water. In addition, as long as there is bath water, sufficient rinsing can be performed, and the user does not think that it is unnecessarily important. As a result, when performing a washing operation using bath water, unlike the conventional case where the user has to set the number of rinsing steps when using bath water, the use of tap water is suppressed. Therefore, an excellent effect that bath water can be effectively used can be obtained.

  In addition, since it is also possible to set a conventional normal bath water course, it is possible to further expand the range of selection of an operation course for an operation course using bath water, and an operation course suited to the user's preference Can be set. In addition, in the present embodiment, in addition to the bath water key 40 for setting any one of the bath water courses, all the bath water keys 41, which are dedicated keys for setting a single use course, are provided on the operation panel 31. As a result, it is possible to reliably set a single-use course without any erroneous operation by the user.

  In particular, in the present embodiment, when the use-out course is executed, after the bath water use-up state is detected, the remaining necessary washing operation is switched to the tap water supply and executed. Even when the rinsing process using bath water cannot be performed the required number of times, the shortage can be covered by the rinsing process using tap water. Moreover, since it comprised so that the process of the last rinse (additional rinse) might be performed with tap water, the finishing condition of washing can be made more favorable by performing the final rinse process with cleaner water.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, there is a situation where the number of times of rinsing varies depending on the remaining amount of bath water in the single use course, but the display of the remaining time display unit 42 during execution of the single use course is displayed. Since the setting (selection of the remaining time table) is performed based on the number of rinsing processes that have been performed at the time of execution, there is also an advantage that a sufficiently probable remaining time guide can be displayed.

(2) Second to Fourth Embodiments and Other Embodiments Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The second embodiment, as well as the third and fourth embodiments described below, are also applied to a drum-type (horizontal axis) washing machine, as in the first embodiment. A part of the overall basic configuration of the washing machine 1 and control of the washing operation performed by the control device 12 are common to the first embodiment. Accordingly, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, detailed description and new illustrations are omitted, and differences from the first embodiment will be described below.

  The difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that when the user has set up a use-up course, tap water is used after the use-up state of the bath water is detected. It is possible to set whether or not to perform an additional rinsing process and, further, the number of executions of the additional rinsing process. In this case, in the operation panel 31 shown in FIG. 2, if the user operates all the bath water keys 41 to set up a use-up course and then operates the rinse key 37, the number of additional rinsing steps according to the number of operations. However, it increases in order of 0, 1, 2,... So that a desired number of times can be set. At this time, the “after bath” lamp is turned on in the rinse count display section 45.

  The flowchart of FIG. 8 shows a procedure for controlling the washing operation performed by the control device 12 when a single-use course using bath water is set and the number of additional rinsing steps (one or more times) is set. Yes. This flowchart is different from the first embodiment (the flowchart of FIG. 5) in the processing after step S33 (steps S51 to S56).

  That is, in the single-use course, the rinsing process is repeated as long as the bath water remains. Finally, the bath water stored in the bathtub disappears (Yes in step S25), and the bath water setting is cleared (step S26). ). Therefore, when the process reaches step S33, it is determined that the bath water setting has been cleared (Yes in step S33). Then, water supply to the target water level using tap water is performed in step S51, and it is determined whether the target water level has been reached in step S52. If the target water level has not been reached (No in step S52), the process returns to step S51 to continue the tap water supply. If the target water level has been reached (Yes in step S52), the process proceeds to step S53.

  In step S53, since tap water is used, a rinsing process (additional rinsing) is performed for a predetermined time, and then drainage is performed in step S54. In the next step S55, it is determined whether or not the set number of additional rinsing steps has been completed. If the set number of additional rinsing steps has not been completed (No in step S55), the processing from step S51 is repeated. When the set number of additional rinsing steps has been completed (Yes in step S55), the dehydration step is performed (step S56), and the washing operation ends.

  According to such a second embodiment, by providing a single-use course, the conventional bath water is used when performing the washing operation using the bath water, as in the first embodiment. Unlike the case where the user must always set the number of rinsing strokes, it is possible to obtain excellent actions and effects such as the ability to effectively use bath water by suppressing the use of tap water.

  In addition to this, in the single-use course, it is possible to set whether to perform an additional rinsing process with tap water after the use-up state is detected, so that an additional rinsing process with tap water can be performed. Allows the user to choose whether to do so and expand the options. In addition, since it is possible to set the number of executions of the additional rinsing process at that time, it is possible to obtain an advantage that it is possible to execute a process more suited to the user's preference.

  9 and 10 show a third embodiment. The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the operation panel 51 and the method of setting an operation course using bath water. That is, as shown in FIG. 9, the operation panel 51 of this embodiment includes a power-on key 32, a power-off key 33, a start key 34, a remaining time display unit 42, an automatic course selection key 35, a course display unit 43, A washing key 36, a rinsing key 37, a dehydration key 38, a washing time display unit 44, a rinse count display unit 45, a dehydration time display unit 46, a water level key 39, and a water level display unit 47 are provided.

  The operation panel 51 is provided with a bath water key 52 for setting (selecting) an operation course using bath water, and a bath water course display section 53 for displaying the set bath water course. It has been. In this case, the operation course using bath water includes a use course in which one or more rinsing processes are performed until the bath water is used up from the washing process, a course in which only the washing process is performed with bath water, the washing process and the first time. There are four types of courses, one is a course in which the rinsing process is performed with bath water, the other is a washing process, and the second is the course in which the second rinsing process is performed with bath water. It can be selected by the user, that is, it can be selected and switched between a single use course and an external water supply course by one key operation.

  The flowchart of FIG. 10 shows a course setting process procedure executed by the control device 12 when the bath water key 52 of the operation panel 51 is operated. That is, in FIG. 10, when the bath water key 52 is operated, it is determined in step S61 whether any bath water course has already been set. When there is no bath water setting (Yes in step S61), a use-up course is set in step S62. At this time, as shown in FIG. 9, the display of “until rinsing and no bath water” is lit on the bath water course display section 53 of the operation panel 51.

  If any bath water course has already been set when the bath water key 52 is operated (No in step S61), it is determined in step S63 whether a single use course has been set. . If a single-use course is set (Yes in step S63), a bath water course in which only the washing process is performed with bath water is set in step S64. At this time, the “wash” display is lit on the course display section 53 of the operation panel 51.

  If the bath water course set when the bath water key 52 is operated is not a single-use course (No in step S63), is the bath water course only for the washing process set in step S65? Judgment is made. If it is a bath water course only for the washing process (Yes in step S65), a course bath water course for performing the washing process and the first rinsing process with bath water is set in step S66. At this time, the “rinse 1” display is lit on the bath water course display section 53.

  When the bath water course set when the bath water key 52 is operated is not the bath water course only for the washing process (No in step S65), the washing process and the first time are performed in step S67. It is determined whether or not a rinse water bath course is set. If it is a bathing water course for the washing process and the first rinsing process (Yes in step S67), in step S68, the bath in which the washing process and the first and second rinsing processes are performed with bath water. A water course is set up. At this time, the “rinse 2” display is lit on the bath water course display section 53.

  When the set bath water course is not the bath water course of the washing process and the first rinsing process (No in step S67), in step S69, the bath water course is returned to the absence of setting. At this time, the bath water course display unit 53 is turned off. Accordingly, if the user operates the bath water key 52 once, a use-up course is set, and if the user operates twice, a bath water course of only the washing process is set, and if the user operates three times, the washing process and the first The bath water course for the first rinsing process is set, and if the operation is performed four times, the bath water course for performing the washing process and the first and second rinsing processes with the bath water is set.

  According to the third embodiment as described above, since a single-use course is provided, when performing a washing operation using bath water as in the first embodiment, conventional bath water is used. Unlike the one that the user must set the number of rinsing steps when using it, it is possible to obtain excellent actions and effects such as the ability to effectively use bath water by suppressing the use of tap water . In addition to this, since it is possible to select and switch between a single-use course and a plurality of bath water courses by operating one bath water key 52 provided on the operation panel 51, the number of keys can be reduced. The user can set up a single-use course and an external water supply course.

  The flowchart of FIG. 11 shows the fourth embodiment. In order to perform display control of the remaining time display unit 42 during execution of the washing operation, which of the remaining time tables in FIG. It shows a processing procedure for selecting (setting) whether to display the remaining time using a table. The fourth embodiment is different from the first embodiment (flowchart in FIG. 6) in that when a single-use course is set (Yes in Step S40), a rinsing process is performed in Step S71. Is where a table of three times (FIG. 7B) is set. The other steps are the same as those in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

  According to this, during the use-up course, the remaining operation is performed based on the operation content in a standard operation course (for example, two rinsing steps with bath water and one additional rinsing step with tap water). The display of the time display unit 42 is controlled, and for the time being, it is possible to display a guide for the remaining time that does not cause a large error. Also in this case, in the case where the number of times of the rinsing process is increased or decreased from 3 times, when the increase / decrease is found, the “reviewing” lamp of the remaining time display unit 42 is lit (or flashes), and the remaining used The time table may be switched by switching the time table.

  In the first embodiment, the number of rinsing strokes of the current single-use course is estimated based on the number of rinsing steps executed in the past single-use course. When using data, a slightly more precise estimation may be performed. For example, from the previous history, the average amount of bath water stored in the bathtub is calculated, and from the water level in this washing operation, the amount of water used for the washing process and the rinsing process for one time is obtained, and from these By calculating how many rinsing strokes can be performed, the number of rinsing strokes can be estimated.

  In addition, in each of the above-described embodiments, the present invention is applied to a drum-type washing machine. However, a so-called vertical-type laundry that can rotate a cylindrical laundry tub whose upper surface is opened around an upper and lower axis. It may be a machine. Various changes can be made to the hardware configuration of the washing machine, such as application to a washing machine not equipped with a drying function. In addition, external storage water is not limited to bath water, and can be applied to cases where rainwater is stored in a tank and used for washing, etc. obtain.

  In the drawings, 1 is a washing machine, 3 is a water tub, 4 is a drum (washing tub), 12 is a control device (control means, detection means), 15 is a water supply valve (tap water supply means), 16 is a water supply pump, and 23 is Water level sensor, 28 is a non-volatile memory, 31 and 51 are operation panels, 40 and 52 are bath water keys, 41 is a bath water all key, 42 is a remaining time display section, 48 and 53 are bath water course display sections, and 49 is All the bath water is displayed.

Claims (9)

According to the set driving course, the washing machine includes a control means for sequentially executing a washing operation including a washing process and a subsequent rinsing process,
Tap water supply means for supplying tap water into the washing tub;
A water supply pump for supplying external stored water stored in an external water storage source into the washing tub;
Detecting means for detecting whether or not the external reservoir water can be supplied, and
In the operation course, a use-up course is provided in which each process of the washing operation using the external storage water is continuously executed until a use-up state in which the supply of the external storage water becomes impossible is detected by the detection means. A washing machine characterized by that.   The control means, when executing the use-up course, after the use-up state is detected by the detection means, the remaining necessary washing operation is switched to the tap water supply by the tap water supply means and executed. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that:   2. In the single use course, it is possible to set by a user operation whether or not to perform an additional rinsing process with tap water after the use state is detected by the detection unit. The washing machine described.   4. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein the number of executions of the additional rinsing process using the tap water can be set in the single use course.   The said operation course includes the external water supply course which performs each process of the washing operation using the said external stored water to the set frequency | count of rinsing. The washing machine described.   The washing machine according to claim 5, wherein selection switching between the single use course and the external water supply course is possible by a single key operation provided on an operation panel.   The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a dedicated key for setting the single-use course is provided on the operation panel. It has a remaining time display section that displays an indication of the remaining time of washing operation,
8. The display of the remaining time display unit is controlled during execution of the single-use course based on the number of rinsing steps that were performed when the previous single-use course was executed. The washing machine described. It has a remaining time display section that displays an indication of the remaining time of washing operation,
The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein during the execution of the single use course, the display of the remaining time display unit is controlled based on a driving content in a standard driving course.

Images