JP2022011310A - Dishwasher - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a dishwasher capable of enhancing convenience of users.SOLUTION: A dishwasher 1 includes a washing tank 7, washing devices 61 and 62, turbidity detecting means 35, and a control unit C1. The control unit C1 implements washing operation of washing the washing objects TW1 stored in the washing tank 7 and determines an initial amount of detergent necessary for the washing operation based on dirty state information acquired from the turbidity detection means 35 in an initial period of the washing operation. The dish washer 1 further includes additional storage detecting means 40 for detecting an additional storage fact that a new washing object TW1 is additionally stored in the washing tank 7 during the washing operation. When the additional storage detecting means 40 detects the additional storage fact, the control unit C1 determines an additional amount of detergent based on the dirty state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means 35 within a prescribed period including at least after the detection of the additional storage fact.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a dishwasher.

Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose an example of a conventional dishwasher. These dishwashers are equipped with a washing tank, a washing device and a control unit.

Tableware, which is the object to be washed, is stored in the washing tank. The cleaning device includes a cleaning nozzle and a cleaning pump, and can supply cleaning water into the cleaning tank. The control unit controls the washing device and executes a washing operation for washing the dishes contained in the washing tank.

In addition, these dishwashers are provided with turbidity detecting means. The turbidity detecting means detects the turbidity of the washing water in the washing tank. The control unit determines the initial amount of detergent required for the washing operation based on the detection result of the turbidity detecting means.

However, since these dishwashers do not consider the addition of dishes during the washing operation, they only wash with the initial amount of detergent regardless of the amount and quality of stains attached to the added dishes. ..

In this regard, Patent Document 3 discloses an example of a dishwasher capable of adding dishes during a washing operation. This dishwasher is equipped with a capacity detecting means. The capacity detecting means detects the capacity of the tableware by using a weight sensor provided between the tableware basket in the washing tank and the bottom surface of the washing tank.

The control unit controls the operation of the washing pump and the like in the washing operation according to a program prepared in advance based on the capacity of the tableware detected by the capacity detecting means.

Further, the control unit detects the fact that new tableware is additionally contained in the washing tank during the washing operation, based on the capacity change of the tableware detected by the capacity detecting means during the washing operation. In this case, the control unit controls the operation of the cleaning pump and the like after restarting the cleaning operation according to a program prepared in advance based on the detected capacity change amount, and prompts the additional injection of detergent if necessary. Display.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2010-136794 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2009-240546 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 11-346987

However, the dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 3 only detects the capacity of the tableware added during the washing operation, for example, when a large amount of dirt adheres to a light tableware such as a resin dish. The control unit cannot distinguish the case where a small amount of dirt adheres to heavy tableware such as a thick ceramic platter. For this reason, in this dishwasher, it is necessary for the user to manually set the operation method according to the quantity and quality of the stains attached to the dishes added during the washing operation, which is convenient for the user. Difficult to achieve improvement.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned conventional circumstances, and it is an object to be solved to provide a dishwasher capable of improving user convenience.

The dishwasher of the present invention has a washing tank in which the object to be washed is housed and a washing tank.
A cleaning device capable of supplying cleaning water into the cleaning tank,
A turbidity detecting means for detecting the turbidity of the washing water in the washing tank, and
A control unit for controlling the cleaning device and acquiring information on the state of contamination of the cleaning water from the turbidity detecting means is provided.
The control unit executes a cleaning operation for cleaning the object to be cleaned housed in the cleaning tank, and also performs the cleaning based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means at the initial stage of the cleaning operation. A dishwasher that determines the initial amount of detergent needed for operation
Further provided with an additional storage detecting means for detecting the fact that the new object to be washed is additionally stored in the washing tank during the washing operation.
When the additional accommodation detection means detects the additional accommodation fact, the control unit is based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means within a predetermined period including at least after the detection of the additional accommodation fact. It is characterized by determining the additional amount of the detergent.

In the dishwasher of the present invention, the control unit determines the initial amount of the detergent used in the washing operation at the initial stage of the washing operation based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means, and is covered during the washing operation. Determine the amount to be added if the wash is added. As a result, for example, a large amount of dirt adheres to a light tableware such as a resin plate, and a small amount of dirt adheres to a heavy tableware such as a large plate made of thick-walled pottery. The initial amount and the additional amount can be preferably determined.

Then, in this dishwasher, the user manually puts the detergent into the washing tank, or the automatic detergent putting means that the dishwasher can provide cleans the detergent, depending on the initially determined amount and the additional amount. It can be automatically put into the tank.

As a result, the user does not need to consider the quantity and quality of dirt adhering to the object to be cleaned added during the cleaning operation, and does not need to manually set the operation method.

Therefore, the dishwasher of the present invention can improve the convenience of the user.

It is desirable that the dishwasher of the present invention further includes an input means for receiving a restart instruction input for instructing the restart of the washing operation after the washing operation is temporarily interrupted and an additional accommodating fact occurs. Then, it is desirable that the additional accommodation detecting means detect the additional accommodation fact when the input means receives the restart instruction input.

In this case, the user can restart the cleaning operation by performing a simple operation of inputting a restart instruction to the input means, so that the convenience of the user can be further improved.

It is desirable that the dishwasher of the present invention further includes a detergent automatic charging means for automatically charging an initial amount of detergent and an additional amount of detergent into the washing tank.

In this case, since the user can save the trouble of manually charging the detergent into the washing tank by the detergent automatic charging means, the convenience of the user can be further improved.

It is desirable that the cleaning operation includes a main cleaning step of cleaning the object to be cleaned using a detergent. Then, when the additional accommodating detection means detects the additional accommodating fact during the main cleaning step, the control unit obtains the dirt state acquired from the turbidity detecting means in the first period until the additional accommodating fact is detected during the main cleaning step. After storing the information, the main cleaning process is interrupted, the shortened cleaning process for cleaning the object to be cleaned is started in the required time equal to or less than the main cleaning process, and then the shortened cleaning process is started. After determining the additional amount based on the difference between the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means in the post-addition detection period and the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means in the first period, the shortened cleaning process is interrupted. It is desirable to restart the shortened cleaning process after the additional amount of detergent has been added to the cleaning tank.

In this case, even if the user adds an object to be cleaned during the main cleaning process, an additional amount of detergent can be added to the cleaning tank according to the amount and quality of the dirt adhering to the added object to be cleaned. All objects to be cleaned can be suitably washed without excess or deficiency. In addition, the shortened cleaning step makes it possible to finish the cleaning of the object to be cleaned earlier than in the case of restarting from the beginning of the cleaning operation.

It is desirable that the cleaning operation includes a main cleaning step of cleaning the object to be cleaned using a detergent, and a step of rinsing the object to be cleaned with washing water after the main cleaning step. Then, when the additional accommodating detection means detects the additional accommodating fact during the rinsing process, the control unit obtains the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means in the second period until the additional accommodating fact is detected during the rinsing process. The rinsing process is interrupted, the shortened cleaning process of cleaning the object to be cleaned is started in a time required equal to or less than the main cleaning process, and then the shortened cleaning process is started and then detected after addition. After determining the additional amount based on the difference between the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means during the period and the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means in the second period, the shortened cleaning process is interrupted and the additional amount is added. It is desirable to restart the shortened cleaning process after the detergent is put into the cleaning tank, and then restart the rinsing process.

In this case, even if the user adds an object to be cleaned during the rinsing process, an additional amount of detergent can be added to the cleaning tank according to the amount and quality of the dirt adhering to the added object to be cleaned. All objects to be cleaned can be suitably washed without excess or deficiency. In addition, the shortened cleaning step makes it possible to finish the cleaning of the object to be cleaned earlier than in the case of restarting from the beginning of the cleaning operation.

The cleaning operation includes a main cleaning step of cleaning the object to be cleaned using a detergent, a step of rinsing the object to be cleaned with washing water after the main cleaning step, and a step of rinsing the object to be cleaned with warm air after the rinsing step. It is desirable that a drying step is included. Then, when the additional accommodating detection means detects the additional accommodating fact during the drying process, the control unit interrupts the drying process and performs a shortened cleaning step of cleaning the object to be cleaned in a required time equal to or less than the main cleaning step. After starting and then determining the additional amount based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means during the post-addition detection period after starting the shortened cleaning process, the shortened cleaning process is interrupted and the additional amount of detergent is added. It is desirable to restart the shortened washing process after being charged into the washing tank, and then repeat the rinsing step and the drying step.

In this case, even if the user adds an object to be cleaned during the drying process, an additional amount of detergent can be added to the cleaning tank according to the amount and quality of the dirt adhering to the added object to be cleaned. All objects to be cleaned can be suitably washed without excess or deficiency. In addition, the shortened cleaning step makes it possible to finish the cleaning of the object to be cleaned earlier than in the case of restarting from the beginning of the cleaning operation.

According to the dishwasher of the present invention, it is possible to improve the convenience of the user.

FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dishwasher of the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the dishwasher of the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a partial top view showing an operation unit and a display unit of the dishwasher of the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the cleaning operation program. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the cleaning operation program. FIG. 6 is a table for explaining the total operation time and the total detergent when the tableware is additionally added in the middle of the washing operation.

Hereinafter, examples embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

(Example)
As shown in FIG. 1, the dishwasher 1 of the embodiment is an example of a specific embodiment of the dishwasher of the present invention. The dishwasher 1 is a front drawer type installed below the top plate CT1 of the system kitchen.

<Case, washing tank and lid>
The dishwasher 1 includes a housing 9, a washing tank 7, and a lid 8. In this embodiment, the side surface side facing the user who uses the system kitchen in the housing 9 which is a substantially box-shaped body, that is, the left side of the paper surface of FIG. 1 is defined as the front side of the housing 9, and the right side of the paper surface of FIG. 1 is defined. It is defined as the back side of the housing 9.

The top of the housing 9 is covered with the top plate CT1. The housing 9 has a housing opening 9H. The housing opening 9H opens a wide range from the upper end to the lower end of the front portion of the housing 9, and communicates the inside and the outside of the housing 9.

The cleaning tank 7 is housed in the housing 9. The position of the washing tank 7 shown in FIG. 1 is defined as the accommodating position. A slide rail mechanism (not shown) is arranged between the side surface of the cleaning tank 7, which is a substantially box-shaped body, and the inner wall surface of the housing 9. Although not shown, the cleaning tank 7 is slidable with respect to the housing 9 by its slide rail mechanism.

The washing tank 7 has an opening 7H. The opening 7H opens the upper part of the washing tank 7. A handle 7G is provided at the upper end of the front portion of the cleaning tank 7.

By grasping the handle 7G and manually sliding the cleaning tank 7 from the accommodating position to the front of the housing 9, although not shown, the cleaning tank 7 is pulled out from the housing 9 forward. Become. Further, the cleaning tank 7 is returned to the accommodation position by the user manually sliding the cleaning tank 7 in the pulled out state to the back of the housing 9.

The lid 8 is arranged at the upper part in the housing 9, and can close and open the opening 7H of the cleaning tank 7. The lid 8 is interlocked with the slide of the cleaning tank 7 by an interlocking mechanism (not shown), and rises from the position shown in FIG. 1 and the position shown in FIG. 1, although not shown, to allow the sliding of the cleaning tank 7. It is designed to move up and down with and from the position.

In the cleaning tank 7 in the accommodation position, the housing opening 9H is closed and the opening 7H is closed by the lid 8.

Although not shown, in the cleaning tank 7, the opening 7H exposed to the outside of the housing 9 is opened by the lid 8 remaining in the housing 9 in a state of being pulled out from the housing 9. Thereby, the user can accommodate the tableware TW1 in the washing tank 7 and take out the tableware TW1 from the washing tank 7 through the opening 7H.

The tableware TW1 is, for example, a food and drink device such as a bowl, a plate, and a glass, and a food and drink tool such as chopsticks, a spoon, and a fork. The tableware TW1 is an example of the "object to be washed" of the present invention.

A water supply pipe P1, a water supply solenoid valve 69, and a drainage pipe P2 are provided in the housing 9. The water supply pipe P1 supplies water to the washing tank 7 from a water supply source (not shown) provided outside the dishwasher 1. The water supply solenoid valve 69 opens and closes the water supply pipe P1 to switch between supplying and stopping water to the washing tank 7. The drain pipe P2 drains the washing water in the washing tank 7 to the outside of the dishwasher 1.

A water storage unit 71 for storing cleaning water is provided at the bottom of the cleaning tank 7. Further, a tableware basket 70 is arranged in the washing tank 7. The tableware TW1 is placed in the tableware basket 70.

The cleaning tank 7 is provided with an exhaust passage 79. The exhaust passage 79 communicates with the outside of the cleaning tank 7 by an exhaust port 79A that opens below the handle 7G on the front surface of the cleaning tank 7. The air in the washing tank 7 passes through the exhaust passage 79 and is discharged to the outside of the machine, that is, in front of the housing 9.

<Nozzle and pump>
The dishwasher 1 further includes a nozzle 61 and a pump 62. The nozzle 61 and the pump 62 are examples of the "cleaning device" of the present invention. The nozzle 61 is arranged in the cleaning tank 7. The pump 62 is assembled to the lower part of the water storage portion 71 of the washing tank 7. The nozzle 61 and the pump 62 move together with the cleaning tank 7 when the cleaning tank 7 is taken in and out.

The nozzle 61 can inject cleaning water into the cleaning tank 7 from a plurality of discharge holes. The injection direction of the nozzle 61 changes in various directions in order to reliably wash the plurality of tableware TW1 stacked in the washing tank 7 and to wash the inner wall surface of the washing tank 7 and the tableware basket 70. It has become like.

During the normal rotation operation, the pump 62 supplies the cleaning water stored in the water storage unit 71 of the cleaning tank 7 to the nozzle 61 and injects the cleaning water into the cleaning tank 7. Since the sprayed washing water is stored in the water storage unit 71, it is repeatedly supplied to the nozzle 61 by the pump 62. Further, the pump 62 drains the washing water in the washing tank 7 to the outside of the dishwasher 1 through the residual dish filter 67 and the drain pipe P2 when the reverse operation is performed.

<Heater, drying fan, temperature sensor, water level sensor and turbidity sensor>
The dishwasher 1 further includes a heater 63, a drying fan 68, a temperature sensor 31, a water level sensor 34, and a turbidity sensor 35. The turbidity sensor 35 is an example of the "turbidity detecting means" of the present invention.

A heater 63, a drying fan 68, a temperature sensor 31, a water level sensor 34, and a turbidity sensor 35 are also assembled in the cleaning tank 7, and move together with the cleaning tank 7 when the cleaning tank 7 is taken in and out.

The heater 63 is arranged at the bottom of the water storage unit 71. The heater 63 heats the washing water stored in the water storage unit 71 or the air in the washing tank 7. The washing water stored in the water storage unit 71 is heated to a predetermined temperature range by continuously generating heat by controlling the energization of the heater 63 or stopping the heat generation, and is washed by the nozzle 61 and the pump 62. It is sprayed into the tank 7.

The drying fan 68 can introduce air from the outside of the dishwasher 1 and supply the air into the washing tank 7 by rotating the drying fan 68. The air supplied into the washing tank 7 by the drying fan 68 is heated to a predetermined temperature range by continuously generating heat by controlling the energization of the heater 63 or stopping the heat generation to dry the tableware TW1. After flowing through the cleaning tank 7 while allowing the air to flow, the air is discharged from the exhaust passage 79 to the front of the housing 9.

The temperature sensor 31 is provided at a position below the heater 63 at the bottom of the water storage unit 71. The temperature sensor 31 detects the temperature inside the cleaning tank 7. More specifically, the temperature sensor 31 detects the temperature of the washing water stored in the water storage unit 71 or the air in the washing tank 7 in the vicinity of the heater 63.

The water level sensor 34 is a float type sensor provided in the water level detection tank 34A arranged next to the water storage unit 71. The water level detection tank 34A is connected to the water storage unit 71 via a communication pipe P3. The water level sensor 34 detects the water level of the washing water in the washing tank 7.

The turbidity sensor 35 is provided so as to be adjacent to the wall surface of the portion of the water storage portion 71 that extends below the leftover filter 67 and extends toward the pump 62. The turbidity sensor 35 detects the turbidity of the washing water in the washing tank 7.

In this embodiment, as an example, the turbidity sensor 35 is a transmitted light scattered light method or surface scattered light type sensor adopted in JIS K 0801 "Automatic Turbidity Measuring Instrument", and can continuously measure turbidity. ..

The transmitted scattered light method detects the light incident on the measurement liquid tank from the light source separately into transmitted light and scattered light, and based on the detection result, the ratio of transmitted light to scattered light that changes depending on the turbidity in the liquid. It is a measurement method that calculates the turbidity by calculating.

The surface scattered light method measures the scattered light from the liquid surface by shining light on the liquid surface to be measured, and calculates the turbidity by utilizing the fact that the intensity of the scattered light is proportional to the concentration of turbidity in the liquid. It is a measurement method.

The turbidity detected by the turbidity sensor 35 is a small value if the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 7 is dirty, while it is a large value if the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 7 is dirty.

<Detergent automatic injection means>
The dishwasher 1 further includes an automatic detergent charging means 65. The detergent automatic charging means 65 is provided in the upper portion of the front portion of the cleaning tank 7 and is adjacent to the inner wall surface in front of the cleaning tank 7.

Although the illustration is simplified, the detergent automatic charging means 65 has a tank for storing liquid detergent and an electrically driven weighing charging unit arranged at the bottom of the tank. The detergent automatic charging means 65 operates the weighing charging unit by transmitting instruction information relating to the amount of detergent charged and the timing of charging. Then, the detergent automatic charging means 65 measures the specified amount of detergent and automatically charges the detergent into the cleaning tank 7 at the designated charging timing.

<Control unit, operation unit and display unit>
The dishwasher 1 further includes a control unit C1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and an operation unit 40 and a display unit 47 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. As shown in FIG. 1, the control unit C1 is arranged below the handle 7G in the front portion of the cleaning tank 7. The operation unit 40 and the display unit 47 are arranged at the upper end of the front portion of the cleaning tank 7.

The control unit C1 is an electronic circuit unit composed of a CPU, a memory, an interface circuit, etc. (not shown). As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit C1 includes a storage unit C12. The storage unit C12 is a memory that constitutes the control unit C1, and is composed of storage elements such as a ROM and a RAM.

The storage unit C12 stores various programs executed by the control unit C1 in order to operate the dishwasher 1, for example, the washing operation program shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. Further, the storage unit C12 is adapted to store various information such as setting information of the dishwasher 1 and initial setting information for executing various programs at any time.

As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit C1 receives a detection signal from the temperature sensor 31 and the water level sensor 34. Further, the control unit C1 includes sensors (not shown), for example, a position sensor that detects whether or not the cleaning tank 7 is in the accommodation position, and a lock sensor that detects whether or not the cleaning tank 7 is locked in the accommodation position. Receives a detection signal from.

Further, the control unit C1 acquires the dirt state information of the washing water from the turbidity sensor 35. The dirt state information of the washing water is information such as the instantaneous value of the turbidity of the washing water in the washing tank 7 detected by the turbidity sensor 35, the average value within a predetermined time, or the maximum value within a predetermined time. This is information that serves as a judgment material when the control unit C1 determines the amount of detergent required for washing the tableware TW1 to be washed housed in the washing tank 7.

Then, the control unit C1 controls the operation of the nozzle 61, the pump 62, the water supply solenoid valve 69, the heater 63, and the drying fan 68 by outputting a control signal via the drive circuit 60, and executes the cleaning operation. ..

Further, after the cleaning operation is started, the control unit C1 cleans the detergent by transmitting instruction information regarding the amount of the detergent to be added and the timing of the addition to the detergent automatic charging means 65 via the drive circuit 60, if necessary. It is automatically put into the tank 7.

As shown in FIG. 3, the operation unit 40 has a power button 41, a start button 42, a course selection button 43, a tableware addition button 45, an addition button 46A, and a subtraction button 46B.

The display unit 47 includes a lamp, a display element capable of displaying numbers, characters, and the like in order to transmit various information to the user.

As shown in FIG. 1, the operation unit 40 and the display unit 47 are covered with the top plate CT1 in a state where the cleaning tank 7 is in the accommodation position, so that the user cannot operate and visually recognize the operation unit 40 and the display unit 47. On the other hand, although not shown, the operation unit 40 and the display unit 47 are exposed in a state where the cleaning tank 7 is pulled out, so that the user can operate and visually recognize the operation unit 40 and the display unit 47.

As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit C1 acquires information on various operation inputs performed by the user to the operation unit 40. Further, the control unit C1 transmits and displays information on the setting of the cleaning operation and various information such as the progress of the cleaning operation to the display unit 47.

The user turns on the dishwasher 1 by pulling out the washing tank 7 and pressing the power button 41. Next, the user sets the content of the washing operation by operating the course selection button 43, the addition button 46A, and the subtraction button 46B. Then, after performing the work of placing the tableware TW1 to be washed in the tableware basket 70, the user presses the start button 42 and then returns the washing tank 7 to the accommodation position to execute the washing operation on the control unit C1. Instruct.

Further, the user may pull out the washing tank 7 from the storage position during the washing operation to interrupt the washing operation, and may additionally store the new tableware TW1 in the washing tank 7. In this case, after performing the work of adding the new tableware TW1 to the tableware basket 70, the user presses the tableware addition button 45 as a restart instruction input for instructing the restart of the washing operation. The operation unit 40 detects the fact that the new tableware TW1 is additionally stored in the washing tank 7 during the washing operation when the tableware addition button 45 receives the restart instruction input.

The operation unit 40 is an example of the "additional accommodation detection means" of the present invention. The tableware addition button 45 is an example of the "input means" of the present invention.

<Multiple processes included in the cleaning operation>
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, in this embodiment, the control unit C1 executes a pre-cleaning step, a main cleaning step, a rinsing step, and a drying step in the washing operation.

Further, in the control unit C1, after the operation unit 40 detects the additional accommodation fact by receiving the restart instruction input of the tableware addition button 45 in any one of the main cleaning process, the rinsing process and the drying process, the control unit C1 By returning the washing tank 7 to the accommodation position, the shortened washing step can be executed in a required time equal to or less than that of the main washing step.

In this embodiment, as an example, the operation time of the washing operation in a standard case in which the tableware TW1 is not added is set to 120 minutes. In this case, the time required for the pre-cleaning step is 2 minutes, the time required for the main cleaning step is 28 minutes, the time required for the rinsing step is 40 minutes, and the time required for the drying step is 50 minutes. Further, the required time of the shortened cleaning step is 20 minutes, which is shorter than the main cleaning step in the initial setting, but in step S151 described later, it is longer than 20 minutes in a range equal to or less than the required time of 28 minutes of the main cleaning process. It may be done or it may be shorter than 20 minutes.

Hereinafter, the cleaning programs shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 will be described in detail. When the user presses the start button 42 to return the cleaning tank 7 to the accommodation position, the control unit C1 determines that the cleaning operation has been instructed, and starts the cleaning program shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.

First, the control unit C1 executes a pre-cleaning step in step S101 shown in FIG. Specifically, the control unit C1 controls the water supply solenoid valve 69 to supply clean cleaning water to the cleaning tank 7. Next, the control unit C1 operates the nozzle 61 and the pump 62 to inject the cleaning water stored in the water storage unit 71 of the cleaning tank 7 toward the tableware TW1 in the cleaning tank 7. At this time, if necessary, the washing water is heated to a predetermined temperature range by the heater 63.

In the pre-cleaning step, the initial amount of detergent required for the main cleaning step is determined based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 at the initial stage of the washing operation. In this embodiment, the automatic detergent charging by the detergent automatic charging means 65 has not been performed in the preliminary cleaning step, and the tableware TW1 housed in the washing tank 7 begins to be cleaned by spraying the washing water without detergent, and becomes dirty. The components gradually shift from the tableware TW1 to the washing water, and the turbidity of the washing water gradually increases.

During the pre-cleaning step, the turbidity sensor 35 detects the turbidity of the washing water in the washing tank 7 and transmits it to the control unit C1. The control unit C1 acquires information such as the instantaneous value of the turbidity of the washing water in the washing tank 7 detected by the turbidity sensor 35, the average value within a predetermined time, or the maximum value within a predetermined time as dirt state information. , The initial amount of detergent required for the main cleaning step is determined based on the dirt state information. For example, the storage unit C12 stores a data table showing the relationship between the dirt state information and the initial amount of the detergent, and the control unit C1 determines the initial amount of the detergent by referring to the data table. ..

When the control unit C1 reaches the required time of the pre-cleaning step, the control unit C1 ends the pre-cleaning step and proceeds to step S111 to execute the main cleaning step. This cleaning step is continued until the required time is reached and "Yes" is obtained in step S113.

After the main cleaning step is started by step S111, the control unit C1 controls the detergent automatic charging means 65, and automatically charges the initial amount of detergent determined in the preliminary cleaning step into the cleaning tank 7.

Then, the control unit C1 operates the nozzle 61 and the pump 62 to dissolve the detergent in the washing water stored in the water storage unit 71 of the washing tank 7 and inject it toward the tableware TW1 in the washing tank 7. At this time, the control unit C1 heats the washing water to a predetermined temperature range by the heater 63. As a result, the detergent contained in the washing water accelerates the decomposition of the stains on the tableware TW1 contained in the washing tank 7. Further, since the initial amount of the detergent is determined based on the dirt state information of the washing water acquired from the turbidity sensor 35, excess or deficiency of the detergent is unlikely to occur. As a result, the dirt component is transferred from the tableware TW1 to the washing water with high certainty.

Even during this cleaning step, the turbidity sensor 35 detects the turbidity of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 7 and transmits it to the control unit C1. The control unit C1 acquires the dirt state information of the washing water in the washing tank 7 from the turbidity sensor 35.

Next, the control unit C1 proceeds to step S112, and determines whether or not the operation unit 40 has detected the additional accommodation fact by receiving the restart instruction input of the tableware addition button 45.

When the user presses the tableware addition button 45 after pulling out the washing tank 7 and adding a new tableware TW1 into the washing tank 7 during the main washing step, it becomes "Yes" in step S112 and proceeds to step S114. ..

On the other hand, if the user does not add the new tableware TW1 during the main cleaning step, the result is "No" in step S112, and the process proceeds to step S113. Then, the control unit C1 repeats steps S112 and S113 until the cleaning step reaches the required time and becomes “Yes” in step S113. Then, when it becomes "Yes" in step S113, the main cleaning step is terminated and the process proceeds to step S121.

When shifting from step S112 to step S114, the control unit C1 sets the timing at which the user pulls out the cleaning tank 7 during the main cleaning step as the final stage, and the cleaning tank 7 acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the first period until the final stage. After the dirt state information of the washing water in the inside is stored by the storage unit C12, the main washing step is interrupted. In the first period, the length during which the dirt state information during the main cleaning process can be accurately acquired from the turbidity sensor 35, for example, 0. It is set to about several seconds to several tens of seconds. Then, the control unit C1 waits until the cleaning tank 7 is returned to the accommodation position by the user after the tableware addition button 45 is pressed, and when the cleaning tank 7 is returned to the accommodation position, the step S141 shown in FIG. 5 is performed. Transition. The processing after step S141 will be described later.

When the result becomes “Yes” in step S113 shown in FIG. 4 and the main cleaning step is completed and the process proceeds to step S121, the control unit C1 executes the rinsing step. The rinsing step is continued until the required time is reached and "Yes" is obtained in step S123.

After the rinsing step is started by step S121, the control unit C1 reversely operates the pump 62 to drain the dirty washing water from the washing tank 7, and then controls the water supply electromagnetic valve 69 to clean the washing tank 7. Water is supplied to the tableware TW1 and then the tableware TW1 is rinsed with the washing water a plurality of times. At this time, in at least one final rinse, the heater 63 is operated to rinse the tableware TW1 with washing water heated to a predetermined temperature range.

Even during the rinsing process, the turbidity sensor 35 detects the turbidity of the washing water in the washing tank 7 and transmits it to the control unit C1. The control unit C1 acquires the dirt state information of the washing water in the washing tank 7 from the turbidity sensor 35.

Next, the control unit C1 proceeds to step S122, and determines whether or not the operation unit 40 has detected the additional accommodation fact by receiving the restart instruction input of the tableware addition button 45.

When the user presses the tableware addition button 45 after pulling out the washing tank 7 and adding a new tableware TW1 into the washing tank 7 during the rinsing process, the result becomes “Yes” in step S122, and the process proceeds to step S124.

On the other hand, if the user does not add the new tableware TW1 during the rinsing process, the result is "No" in step S122, and the process proceeds to step S123. Then, the control unit C1 repeats steps S122 and S123 until the rinsing step reaches the required time and becomes “Yes” in step S123. Then, when “Yes” is set in step S123, the washing water is drained from the washing tank 7, the rinsing step is completed, and the process proceeds to step S131.

When shifting from step S122 to step S124, the control unit C1 sets the timing at which the user pulls out the washing tank 7 during the rinsing process as the final stage, and in the cleaning tank 7 acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the second period until the final stage. After storing the dirt state information of the washing water by the storage unit C12, the rinsing process is interrupted. In the second period, the length at which the dirt state information during the rinsing process can be accurately acquired from the turbidity sensor 35, for example, 0. It is set to about several seconds to several tens of seconds. Then, the control unit C1 waits until the cleaning tank 7 is returned to the accommodation position by the user after the tableware addition button 45 is pressed, and when the cleaning tank 7 is returned to the accommodation position, the step S141 shown in FIG. 5 is performed. Transition. The processing after step S141 will be described later.

When the result becomes “Yes” in step S123 shown in FIG. 4 and the rinsing step is completed and the process proceeds to step S131, the control unit C1 executes the drying step. The drying step is continued until the required time is reached and "Yes" is obtained in step S133.

After the drying step is started by step S131, the control unit C1 operates the drying fan 68 and the heater 63 to dry the tableware TW1 after the rinsing step with warm air heated to a predetermined temperature range.

During the drying process, since there is no washing water in the washing tank 7, the turbidity sensor 35 is in a dormant state, and the control unit C1 cannot acquire the dirt state information from the turbidity sensor 35 either.

Next, the control unit C1 proceeds to step S132, and determines whether or not the operation unit 40 has detected the additional accommodation fact by receiving the restart instruction input of the tableware addition button 45.

When the user presses the tableware addition button 45 after pulling out the washing tank 7 and adding a new tableware TW1 into the washing tank 7 during the drying step, the result becomes “Yes” in step S132, and the process proceeds to step S134.

On the other hand, if the user does not add the new tableware TW1 during the drying step, the result is "No" in step S132, and the process proceeds to step S133. Then, the control unit C1 repeats steps S132 and S133 until the drying step reaches the required time and becomes “Yes” in step S133. Then, when “Yes” is set in step S133, the heater 63 and the drying fan 68 are stopped, the drying process is terminated, and the cleaning operation program is terminated.

When the transition from step S132 to step S134, the control unit C1 waits until the washing tank 7 is returned to the storage position by the user after the tableware addition button 45 is pressed, and when the washing tank 7 is returned to the storage position, the washing tank 7 is returned to the storage position. The process proceeds to step S141 shown in FIG.

After shifting from step S114, step S124 or step S134 shown in FIG. 4 to step S141 shown in FIG. 5, the control unit C1 starts the shortened cleaning step.

Next, the control unit C1 shifts to step S142, and when the washing water in the washing tank 7 is insufficient, water supply is executed. Specifically, when the user pulls out the washing tank 7 to add the tableware TW1 in the middle of drainage or water supply in the rinsing process, or in the middle of the drying process, the shortened washing process is executed. Since there is not enough wash water to do so, perform water supply.

Next, the control unit C1 proceeds to step S143 and executes cleaning for turbidity detection during the detection period after addition. As a result, the stains on the tableware TW1 added to the washing tank 7 begin to be removed, the stain components gradually shift from the tableware TW1 to the washing water, and the turbidity of the washing water gradually increases.

During cleaning for turbidity detection, the turbidity sensor 35 detects the turbidity of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 7 and transmits it to the control unit C1. The control unit C1 acquires the dirt state information of the washing water in the washing tank 7 from the turbidity sensor 35. The detection period after addition is set to a length that allows accurate acquisition of dirt state information during cleaning for turbidity detection from the turbidity sensor 35, for example, about several tens of seconds to several minutes. In this embodiment, as an example, it is set to 1 minute, which is shorter than the time required for the pre-cleaning step.

Then, the control unit C1 proceeds to step S144 when the detection period after the addition elapses, and determines whether or not the operation unit 40 has detected the additional accommodation fact during the main cleaning step.

If it is "Yes" in step S112 shown in FIG. 4, it becomes "Yes" in step S144 shown in FIG. 5, and the process proceeds to step S146.

On the other hand, if the result is "No" in step S112 shown in FIG. 4, the result becomes "No" in step S144 shown in FIG. 5, and the process proceeds to step S145. Then, the control unit C1 determines whether or not the operation unit 40 has detected the additional accommodation fact during the rinsing process.

If it is "Yes" in step S122 shown in FIG. 4, it becomes "Yes" in step S145 shown in FIG. 5, and the process proceeds to step S147.

On the other hand, if the result is "No" in step S122 shown in FIG. 4, the result is "No" in step S145 shown in FIG. The process proceeds to step S148.

When shifting from step S144 to step S146, the control unit C1 "sees the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 during the detection period after addition in step S143 and the turbidity sensor 35 in the first period in step S114 shown in FIG. The additional amount of detergent is determined based on the "difference from the dirt state information obtained from". For example, in the storage unit C12, "the difference between the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the detection period after addition and the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the first period" and the additional amount of detergent. A data table showing the relationship with the above is stored, and the control unit C1 determines an additional amount of detergent by referring to the data table. After that, the control unit C1 shifts to step S149.

When shifting from step S145 to step S147, the control unit C1 "sees the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 during the detection period after addition in step S143 and the turbidity sensor 35 in the second period in step S124 shown in FIG. The additional amount of detergent is determined based on the "difference from the dirt state information obtained from". For example, in the storage unit C12, "the difference between the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the detection period after addition and the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the second period" and the additional amount of detergent. A data table showing the relationship with the above is stored, and the control unit C1 determines an additional amount of detergent by referring to the data table. After that, the control unit C1 shifts to step S149.

When shifting from step S145 to step S148, the control unit C1 determines the amount of detergent to be added based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 during the post-addition detection period in step S143. For example, the storage unit C12 stores a data table showing the relationship between the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 during the detection period after addition and the additional amount of detergent, and the control unit C1 stores the data table. To determine the additional amount of detergent by reference to. After that, the control unit C1 shifts to step S149.

After determining the additional amount of detergent in step S146, step S147 or step S148, when the process proceeds to step S149, the control unit C1 interrupts the shortened cleaning step.

Next, the control unit C1 shifts to step S150 to control the detergent automatic charging means 65, and automatically charges the additional amount of detergent determined in step S146, step S147 or step S148 into the washing tank 7.

Next, the control unit C1 shifts to step S151 and resets the operation control of the shortened cleaning process. In this embodiment, as an example, the time required for the shortened washing step is adjusted according to the elapsed time of the main washing step until the tableware TW1 is added. More specifically, the time required for the shortened cleaning process is made longer or shorter than the initial setting of 20 minutes within a range equal to or less than the time required for the main cleaning process of 28 minutes. For example, if the elapsed time of the main washing process until the addition of the tableware TW1 is close to the time required for the main washing process of 28 minutes, the washing of the previously stored tableware TW1 is almost completed, so that the shortened washing step is correspondingly performed. The time required for this is shortened from the initial setting of 20 minutes to about 1 minute to several minutes. Further, if the elapsed time of the main cleaning process until the addition of the tableware TW1 is as short as several minutes, the cleaning of the previously stored tableware TW1 has not progressed so much, so the time required for the shortened cleaning process is initially set accordingly. Set 20 minutes to 1 minute to several minutes longer. Furthermore, if the elapsed time of the main cleaning process until the addition of the tableware TW1 is extremely short, such as 1 to 2 minutes or less, the cleaning of the previously stored tableware TW1 has just begun, so the time required for the shortened cleaning process can be reduced. Equivalent to 28 minutes required for this cleaning process.

After that, the control unit C1 restarts the shortened cleaning process, and when the time required for the shortened cleaning process is reached, the process proceeds to step S152 to end the shortened cleaning process.

Next, the control unit C1 proceeds to step S153 and executes the rinsing step. The content of the rinsing process is the same as that in step S121. If the tableware TW1 is added during the rinsing process or the drying process, the rinsing process is redone. When the time required for the rinsing process is reached, the control unit C1 ends the rinsing process.

Next, the control unit C1 proceeds to step S154 and executes a drying step. The content of the drying step is the same as that in step S131. If the tableware TW1 is added during the drying process, the rinsing process and the drying process will be redone. When the time required for the drying step is reached, the control unit C1 ends the drying step and ends the washing operation program as shown in FIG.

In FIG. 6, in the washing operation of the dishwasher 1 of the first embodiment, the washing of the tableware TW1 for four people is started at the initial stage, and the tableware TW1 for two people is added at different timings in the middle of the washing operation. Shows the total operating time and total detergent of the case. Further, FIG. 6 shows Case 4 as a comparative example.

<Case 1>
In case 1, the main cleaning step is started after the preliminary cleaning step (2 minutes) is completed. At this time, in the preliminary washing step, the amount of detergent required for washing the tableware TW1 for four people is determined to be an initial amount of 5 g, and the detergent is automatically charged into the washing tank 7 by the detergent automatic charging means 65 at the beginning of the main washing step.

Then, after 20 minutes of operation time has elapsed (preliminary cleaning step 2 minutes, main cleaning step 18 minutes), the user adds tableware TW1 for two people, and the operation unit 40 additionally accommodates the tableware TW1 in step S112 shown in FIG. Detect.

As a result, the shortened washing step is started, and in step S146 shown in FIG. 5, the amount of detergent required for washing the tableware TW1 for two people is determined to be an additional amount of 3 g, and the detergent automatic charging means 65 automatically puts the detergent into the washing tank 7. throw into.

Then, in step S151 shown in FIG. 5, the shortened cleaning step is completed in 20 minutes, which is shorter than the main cleaning step, and then the rinsing step of 40 minutes and the drying step of 50 minutes are executed to complete the cleaning operation. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6, the total operating time is 130 minutes and the total detergent is 8 g.

<Case 2>
In case 2, the main cleaning step is started after the preliminary cleaning step (2 minutes) is completed. At this time, in the preliminary washing step, the amount of detergent required for washing the tableware TW1 for four people is determined to be an initial amount of 5 g, and the detergent is automatically charged into the washing tank 7 by the detergent automatic charging means 65 at the beginning of the main washing step. Then, after the main cleaning step is completed in the required time of 28 minutes, the rinsing step is started.

Then, after the operation time of 60 minutes has elapsed (preliminary washing step 2 minutes, main washing step 28 minutes, rinsing step 30 minutes), the user adds tableware TW1 for two people, and the operation unit 40 is in step S122 shown in FIG. Detects additional containment facts.

As a result, the shortened washing step is started, and in step S147 shown in FIG. 5, the amount of detergent required for washing the tableware TW1 for two people is determined to be an additional amount of 3 g, and the detergent automatic charging means 65 automatically puts the detergent into the washing tank 7. throw into.

Then, in step S151 shown in FIG. 5, the shortened cleaning step is completed in a required time of 20 minutes, which is shorter than that of the main cleaning step, the rinsing process is repeated, the required time is 40 minutes, and then the drying step is executed in 50 minutes. And finish the washing operation. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6, the total operating time is 170 minutes and the total detergent is 8 g.

<Case 3>
In case 3, the main cleaning step is started after the preliminary cleaning step (2 minutes) is completed. At this time, in the preliminary washing step, the amount of detergent required for washing the tableware TW1 for four people is determined to be an initial amount of 5 g, and the detergent is automatically charged into the washing tank 7 by the detergent automatic charging means 65 at the beginning of the main washing step. Then, the main cleaning step is completed in the required time of 28 minutes, then the rinsing step is completed in the required time of 40 minutes, and then the drying step is started.

Then, after 90 minutes of operation time has elapsed (preliminary washing step 2 minutes, main washing step 28 minutes, rinsing step 40 minutes, drying step 20 minutes), the user adds tableware TW1 for two people, and the step shown in FIG. In S132, the operation unit 40 detects the additional accommodation fact.

As a result, the shortened washing step is started, and in step S148 shown in FIG. 5, the amount of detergent required for washing the tableware TW1 for two people is determined to be an additional amount of 3 g, and the detergent automatic charging means 65 automatically puts the detergent into the washing tank 7. throw into.

Then, in step S151 shown in FIG. 5, the shortened cleaning step is completed in 20 minutes, which is shorter than the main cleaning step, the rinsing process is redone, the required time is 40 minutes, and then the drying step is repeated, and the required time is 20 minutes. It finishes in 50 minutes, and the washing operation is finished. As a result, as shown in FIG. 6, the total operating time is 200 minutes and the total detergent is 8 g.

<Case 4>
In case 4, there is no turbidity sensor 35 and automatic detergent charging means 65 according to the dishwasher 1 of the first embodiment, the fact that the tableware TW1 is additionally stored cannot be detected, and the shortened washing process cannot be executed. In the first time, the washing operation is executed for the tableware TW1 for four people, and the second time, the washing operation is executed for the tableware TW1 for two people.

In this example, the cleaning step (required time 30 minutes) is executed instead of the pre-cleaning step (required time 2 minutes) and the main cleaning step (required time 28 minutes) in cases 1 to 3. The time required for the rinsing step and the drying step is the same as in cases 1 to 3.

As a result, the total operating time is 240 minutes, which is longer than in cases 1 to 3. In addition, the total amount of detergent is 10 g, which is larger than that of cases 1 to 3.

<Action effect>
In the dishwasher 1 of the embodiment, the control unit C1 determines the initial amount of detergent in step S101 of FIG. 4 based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 at the initial stage of the washing operation. Further, when the tableware TW1 is added during the main washing step, the rinsing step, or the drying step, the control unit C1 obtains the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in steps S146, S147, and S148 of FIG. Based on this, determine the additional amount of detergent. This controls, for example, the case where a large amount of dirt adheres to the light tableware TW1 such as a resin plate and the case where a small amount of dirt adheres to the heavy tableware TW1 such as a thick ceramic platter. Part C1 can suitably determine the initial amount and the additional amount.

Then, in the dishwasher 1, the detergent automatic charging means 65 can automatically charge the initial amount of detergent into the washing tank 7 in step S111 of FIG. 4 according to the initially determined amount of the detergent. Further, in step S150 of FIG. 5, the detergent automatic charging means 65 can automatically add an additional amount of detergent to the washing tank 7.

As a result, the user does not need to consider the amount and quality of dirt adhering to the tableware TW1 added during the washing operation, and does not need to manually set the operation method.

Therefore, in the dishwasher 1 of the embodiment, the convenience of the user can be improved.

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the dishwasher 1 further includes a dishwasher addition button 45 for receiving a restart instruction input for instructing the restart of the washing operation after the washing operation is temporarily interrupted and an additional storage fact occurs. There is. Then, the operation unit 40 detects the fact of additional accommodation when the tableware addition button 45 receives the restart instruction input in steps S112, S122, and S132 of FIG. With this configuration, the user can restart the washing operation by performing a simple operation of inputting a restart instruction to the tableware addition button 45, so that the convenience of the user can be further improved.

Further, the dishwasher 1 can automatically charge the initial amount of detergent into the washing tank 7 in step S111 of FIG. 4 by the detergent automatic charging means 65 shown in FIG. 1, and also in step S150 of FIG. An additional amount of detergent can be automatically added to the washing tank 7. With this configuration, it is possible to save the user the trouble of manually adding the detergent to the washing tank 7, so that the convenience of the user can be further improved.

Further, in the dishwasher 1, when the operation unit 40 detects the additional accommodation fact in the main washing step in step S112 of FIG. 4, the control unit C1 shifts to step S114 and is added during the main washing step. The dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 is stored in the first period until the containment fact is detected, and then the main cleaning step is interrupted. Then, the control unit C1 shifts to step S141 of FIG. 5, starts a shortened washing step of washing the tableware TW1 in a required time equal to or less than the main washing step, and then in steps S143 and S146, "shortened washing". After determining the additional amount based on "the difference between the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the detection period after the addition from the start of the process and the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the first period". , Step S149 is used to interrupt the shortened cleaning process, and step S150 is performed to add an additional amount of detergent to the cleaning tank 7, and then the process is performed to step S151 to restart the shortened cleaning process. With this configuration, even if the user adds the tableware TW1 during the main cleaning process, an additional amount of detergent according to the amount and quality of the stains adhering to the added tableware TW1 can be added to the cleaning tank 7. All tableware TW1 can be suitably washed without excess or deficiency. Further, by the shortened washing step, the washing of the tableware TW1 can be completed earlier than the case where the washing operation is restarted including the step S101 from the beginning.

Further, in this dishwasher 1, when the operation unit 40 detects the additional accommodation fact during the rinsing step in step S122 of FIG. 4, the control unit C1 shifts to step S124 and the additional accommodation fact during the rinsing process. The dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 is stored in the second period until the detection is detected, and then the rinsing process is interrupted. Then, the control unit C1 shifts to step S141 of FIG. 5, starts a shortened washing step of washing the tableware TW1 in a required time equal to or less than the main washing step, and then in steps S143 and S147, "shortened washing". After determining the additional amount based on "the difference between the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the detection period after the addition from the start of the process and the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 in the second period". , Step S149 is used to interrupt the shortened cleaning process, and step S150 is performed to add an additional amount of detergent to the cleaning tank 7, and then the process is performed to step S151 to restart the shortened cleaning process. After that, the control unit C1 shifts to step S153 and repeats the rinsing step. With this configuration, even if the user adds the tableware TW1 during the rinsing process, an additional amount of detergent according to the amount and quality of the stains adhering to the added tableware TW1 can be added to the washing tank 7, so that the detergent can be used. All tableware TW1 can be suitably washed without excess or deficiency. Further, by the shortened washing step, the washing of the tableware TW1 can be completed earlier than the case where the washing operation is restarted including the step S101 from the beginning.

Further, in the dishwasher 1, if the operation unit 40 detects the fact of additional accommodation during the drying process in step S132 of FIG. 4, the control unit C1 shifts to step S134 and interrupts the drying process. Then, the control unit C1 shifts to step S141 of FIG. 5, starts a shortened washing step of washing the tableware TW1 in a required time equal to or less than the main washing step, and then in steps S143 and S148, the shortened washing step. After determining the additional amount based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity sensor 35 during the detection period after the addition, the process proceeds to step S149 to interrupt the shortened cleaning process, and the process proceeds to step S150 to add. After the amount of detergent is charged into the washing tank 7, the process proceeds to step S151 to restart the shortened washing step. After that, the control unit C1 shifts to step S153 to redo the rinsing step, and shifts to step S154 to redo the drying step. With this configuration, even if the user adds the tableware TW1 during the drying process, an additional amount of detergent according to the amount and quality of the stains adhering to the added tableware TW1 can be added to the washing tank 7, so that the detergent can be used. All tableware TW1 can be suitably washed without excess or deficiency. Further, by the shortened washing step, the washing of the tableware TW1 can be completed earlier than the case where the washing operation is restarted including the step S101 from the beginning.

Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the examples, it is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments and can be appropriately modified and applied without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

In the embodiment, the detergent automatic charging means 65 provided in the dishwasher 1 automatically loads the detergent into the washing tank 7, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the user may manually add an initial amount of detergent and an additional amount of detergent into the washing tank. In this case, the control unit displays the initial amount of detergent on the display unit to notify the user to put the detergent into the cleaning tank, and displays the additional amount of detergent on the display unit on the display unit to prompt the cleaning tank. It is preferable to execute a notification prompting the user to put it in.

In the embodiment, the turbidity detecting means is the turbidity sensor 35, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and turbidity detecting means for detecting turbidity by various measurement principles can be appropriately adopted.

In the embodiment, the detergent automatic charging means 65 charges a liquid detergent, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the detergent automatic charging means may charge a powdery or tablet-shaped detergent.

The present invention also includes a configuration in which the cleaning operation according to the embodiment is changed so as not to include the drying step, that is, a configuration in which the cleaning operation program is terminated by the completion of the rinsing process.

In the embodiment, the time required for the shortened cleaning step is adjusted in step S151 of FIG. 5, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the operation control of the shortened cleaning step may be reset with respect to the water pressure of the cleaning water ejected from the nozzle, the temperature of the cleaning water, and the like.

In the embodiment, when the less dirty tableware TW1 is added or the pre-washed tableware TW1 is added, the amount of detergent added may be zero in steps S146, S147, and S148 of FIG.

In the embodiment, the operation unit 40 detects the additional accommodation fact when the tableware addition button 45 receives the restart instruction input, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the additional accommodation detecting means may be a weight sensor that detects an increase in the weight of the tableware TW1 placed on the tableware basket 70, or a strain sensor that detects the distortion of the tableware basket 70 due to the increase in the weight. .. Then, the input means is a position sensor that detects that the cleaning tank 7 has been returned to the accommodation position, and instructs the user to restart the cleaning operation by returning the cleaning tank 7 to the accommodation position after adding the tableware TW1. It may be received as a restart instruction input. Further, in the case where the door opens and closes the non-pull-out type washing tank, an open / close sensor for detecting that the door closes the washing tank may be an input means.

The present invention can be used, for example, in a dishwasher, a dishwasher / dryer, a kitchen facility, or the like.

1 ... Dishwasher TW1 ... Items to be washed (tableware)
7 ... Cleaning tank 61, 62 ... Cleaning device (61 ... Nozzle, 62 ... Pump)
35 ... Turbidity detecting means (turbidity sensor)
C1 ... Control unit 40 ... Additional accommodation detection means (operation unit)
45 ... Input means (tableware addition button)
65 ... Detergent automatic injection means

Claims (6)

A cleaning tank that houses the object to be cleaned and
A cleaning device capable of supplying cleaning water into the cleaning tank,
A turbidity detecting means for detecting the turbidity of the washing water in the washing tank, and
A control unit for controlling the cleaning device and acquiring information on the state of contamination of the cleaning water from the turbidity detecting means is provided.
The control unit executes a cleaning operation for cleaning the object to be cleaned housed in the cleaning tank, and also performs the cleaning based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means at the initial stage of the cleaning operation. A dishwasher that determines the initial amount of detergent needed for operation
Further provided with an additional storage detecting means for detecting the fact that the new object to be washed is additionally stored in the washing tank during the washing operation.
When the additional accommodation detection means detects the additional accommodation fact, the control unit is based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means within a predetermined period including at least after the detection of the additional accommodation fact. A dishwasher comprising determining the additional amount of the detergent. Further provided is an input means for receiving a restart instruction input for instructing the restart of the washing operation after the washing operation is temporarily interrupted and the additional accommodation fact occurs.
The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the additional accommodation detecting means detects the additional accommodation fact when the input means receives the restart instruction input. The dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a detergent automatic charging means for automatically charging the initial amount of the detergent and the additional amount of the detergent into the washing tank. The cleaning operation includes a main cleaning step of cleaning the object to be cleaned using the detergent.
When the additional accommodation detecting means detects the additional accommodation fact during the main cleaning step, the control unit may use the additional accommodation detecting means.
The dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means is stored in the first period until the additional storage fact is detected during the main cleaning step.
Next, the main cleaning step is interrupted, and a shortened cleaning step of cleaning the object to be cleaned is started in a required time equal to or less than that of the main cleaning step.
Next, the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means in the detection period after the addition after starting the shortened cleaning step, and the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means in the first period. After determining the additional amount based on the difference, the shortened cleaning step is interrupted.
The dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the shortened washing step is restarted after the additional amount of the detergent is charged into the washing tank. The cleaning operation includes a main cleaning step of cleaning the object to be cleaned using the detergent, and a step of rinsing the object to be cleaned with the cleaning water after the main cleaning step.
When the additional accommodation detecting means detects the additional accommodation fact during the rinsing step, the control unit may use the additional accommodation detecting means.
The dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means is stored in the second period until the additional containment fact is detected during the rinsing step.
Next, the rinsing process is interrupted, and a shortened cleaning step of cleaning the object to be cleaned is started in a required time equal to or less than that of the main cleaning step.
Next, the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means in the detection period after the addition after starting the shortened cleaning step, and the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means in the second period. After determining the additional amount based on the difference, the shortened cleaning step is interrupted.
The dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the additional amount of the detergent is charged into the washing tank, the shortened washing step is restarted, and then the rinsing step is repeated. The cleaning operation includes a main cleaning step of cleaning the object to be cleaned using the detergent, a step of rinsing the object to be cleaned with the washing water after the main cleaning step, and a step of rinsing the object to be cleaned after the rinsing step. Includes a drying step, which dries the object to be cleaned with warm air,
When the additional accommodation detecting means detects the additional accommodation fact during the drying step, the control unit may use the additional accommodation detecting means.
The drying step is interrupted, and a shortened washing step of washing the object to be washed is started in a time required equal to or less than that of the main washing step.
Next, after starting the shortened cleaning step and determining the additional amount based on the dirt state information acquired from the turbidity detecting means during the post-addition detection period, the shortened cleaning step is interrupted.
The dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein after the additional amount of the detergent is charged into the washing tank, the shortened washing step is restarted, and then the rinsing step and the drying step are repeated. ..

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