JP2022026179A - washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of detecting a residual amount of a liquid agent in a tank, while, by using a pair of electrode terminals, suppressing electric corrosion of these electrode terminals.SOLUTION: A fully automatic washing machine includes: a washing and dewatering tub which is arranged inside a housing, and in which washing of laundry is performed; a detergent tank 400 in which a liquid detergent is stored; a water supply unit for inputting the detergent in the detergent tank 400 into the washing and dewatering tank; a pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 arranged in the detergent tank 400; a control part for determining whether or not a liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than a predetermined liquid level L1, based on the change of a resistance value occurring between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422; and a display part. The control part performs electric conduction between the pair of electric terminals 421, 422 for a predetermined time, based on the fact that predetermined detection timing has come, and the control part allows the display part to perform notification showing that the detergent needs replenishment, based on the establishment of a replenishment condition including the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 being lower than the predetermined liquid level L1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

The present invention relates to a washing machine.

For example, Patent Document 1 describes a washing machine capable of automatically charging a liquid detergent into a washing / dehydrating tub.

The washing machine of Patent Document 1 is provided in an outer cover and includes a detergent tank in which a liquid detergent is stored. The detergent tank has an air inlet and a liquid discharge port as well as a closed inside by closing the supply port for replenishing the detergent with the detergent tank lid. An air pump is connected to the air inlet. When the air pump operates, the air pressure in the sealed detergent tank increases, and the detergent in the detergent tank is pushed out from the liquid discharge port and put into the washing / dehydrating tank. The user does not have to put a single amount of detergent into the washing machine each time the washing operation is performed, which is convenient.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2001-259290

When the remaining amount of detergent in the detergent tank is low, it is necessary to replenish the detergent in the detergent tank. Therefore, it is conceivable to adopt a configuration in which the liquid level in the detergent tank is detected to notify that the detergent needs to be replenished at the timing when the remaining amount of the detergent in the detergent tank is low.

In such a case, as a configuration for detecting that the amount of residual liquid in the detergent tank has decreased, a pair of electrode terminals are arranged in the detergent tank, and electricity is applied between the pair of electrode terminals. A configuration that detects the conduction state can be adopted. When the amount of residual liquid in the detergent tank becomes small and the detergent does not intervene between the pair of electrode terminals, the pair of electrode terminals are no longer energized by the detergent.

However, in the above configuration, when electricity is applied between the pair of electrode terminals immersed in the liquid, there is a concern about electrolytic corrosion of the pair of electrode terminals.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides a washing machine capable of detecting the remaining amount of liquid in a tank while suppressing electrolytic corrosion of these electrode terminals by using a pair of electrode terminals. The purpose is to do.

The washing machine according to the main aspect of the present invention is arranged in a housing, a washing tub for washing laundry, a tank for storing a liquid for washing, and the liquid in the tank in the washing tub. The liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level based on the change in the resistance value generated between the charging mechanism for charging, the pair of electrode terminals arranged in the tank, and the pair of electrode terminals. It includes a control unit for determining whether or not it is present, and a notification unit. Here, the control unit energizes the pair of electrode terminals for a predetermined time based on the arrival of a predetermined detection timing, and determines that the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level. Based on the establishment of the replenishment condition including, the notification unit is made to notify that the liquid agent needs to be replenished.

According to the above configuration, the remaining amount of the liquid agent in the tank is detected by using the pair of electrode terminals, and when the remaining amount is low, the user is informed that the liquid agent needs to be replenished. As a result, the user can replenish the liquid when the liquid in the tank is low.

Moreover, since the energization between the pair of electrode terminals is performed only for a predetermined time based on the arrival of a predetermined detection timing, it is possible to avoid energization between the pair of electrode terminals for a long time. It is possible to suppress the electrolytic corrosion of a pair of electrode terminals.

In the washing machine according to this aspect, the detection timing is the timing when the power is turned on to the washing machine, the timing when the operation for confirming the remaining amount of the liquid agent is performed, and the timing when the washing operation is completed. It may include at least one timing.

According to the above configuration, when the notification unit issues a notification at the timing when the power is turned on to the washing machine, the timing when the operation for checking the remaining amount of the liquid agent is performed, and the timing when the washing operation is completed. Since the user tends to be near the washing machine, it is easy for the user to notice the notification. Therefore, by energizing between the pair of electrode terminals at at least one of such timings, effective and lean energization can be performed, the energization time can be shortened, and electricity to the pair of electrode terminals can be shortened. The occurrence of corrosion can be suppressed.

In the washing machine according to this embodiment, the control unit integrates the amount of the liquid agent used or the number of washing operations for each washing operation based on the fact that the liquid level in the tank becomes lower than the predetermined liquid level. Can be configured to start. In this case, the replenishment condition is satisfied when the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the integrated value of the used amount or the number of operations exceeds the predetermined threshold value.

According to the above configuration, the notification unit performs notification when the remaining amount of the liquid agent becomes less than the remaining amount when the liquid level in the tank becomes lower than the predetermined liquid level, so that the liquid agent is replenished. The interval can be lengthened, and the user's labor can be reduced.

In the washing machine according to this aspect, the liquid agent in the tank may contain a liquid detergent. Then, the washing machine has a water storage tank in which water containing the detergent charged by the charging mechanism unit is stored, and an ultrasonic generator is generated in the laundry immersed in the water in the water storage tank. Further, an ultrasonic washing device for washing laundry by applying ultrasonic waves may be provided. In this case, the detection timing includes the timing at which the washing operation is completed and the timing at which the washing operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device is completed.

According to the above configuration, by performing the washing operation with the ultrasonic cleaning device, it is possible to remove partial stains and the like on the laundry prior to washing. Further, when the notification unit is notified at the timing when the washing operation is completed and the timing when the washing operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device is completed, the user is likely to be near the washing machine and therefore easily notice the notification. Therefore, when an ultrasonic cleaning device is provided, by energizing between the pair of electrode terminals at such timing, effective and lean energization can be performed and the energization time can be shortened. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion on the pair of electrode terminals.

In the case of the above configuration, the control unit further uses the amount of the detergent or washing in each washing operation and each washing operation based on the fact that the liquid level in the tank becomes lower than the predetermined liquid level. It may be configured to start accumulating the number of operations of the operation and the washing operation. In this case, the replenishment condition is satisfied when the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the integrated value of the used amount or the number of operations exceeds the predetermined threshold value.

With such a configuration, the notification unit issues a notification when the remaining amount of the liquid is less than the remaining amount when the liquid level in the tank becomes lower than the predetermined liquid level. The replenishment interval can be lengthened, and the user's labor can be reduced. Moreover, since not only the amount of detergent used or the number of operations in the washing operation but also the amount of detergent used or the number of operations in the washing operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device is integrated, the amount of detergent used or the number of operations can be accurately obtained.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine capable of detecting the remaining amount of a liquid agent in a tank while suppressing electrolytic corrosion of these electrode terminals by using a pair of electrode terminals.

The effects or significance of the present invention will be further clarified by the description of the embodiments shown below. However, the following embodiments are merely examples when the present invention is put into practice, and the present invention is not limited to those described in the following embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a side sectional view of a fully automatic washing machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device and the top plate in a state where the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the water storage unit are housed in the storage unit according to the embodiment. 2 (b) and 2 (c) are perspective views of a main part of the ultrasonic cleaning device and the top plate in a state where the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the water storage unit are pulled out from the storage unit according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device in a state where the water storage portion is separated from the main body portion according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a side sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the main body portion according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a water supply device according to an embodiment. 6 (a) and 6 (b) are a plan view and a bottom view of the detergent tank according to the embodiment, respectively, and FIG. 6 (c) is a sectional view taken along the line AA'of FIG. 6 (a). be. 7 (a) and 7 (b) are a plan view and a bottom view of the softener tank according to the embodiment, respectively, and FIG. 7 (c) is a sectional view taken along the line BB'of FIG. 7 (a). Is. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a fully automatic washing machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a control process for the liquid agent replenishment notification function according to the embodiment. 10 (a) and 10 (b) are flowcharts showing the first replenishment notification process and the second replenishment notification process included in the control process for the liquid agent replenishment notification function, respectively, according to the embodiment.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the washing machine of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a side sectional view of the fully automatic washing machine 1.

With reference to FIG. 1, the fully automatic washing machine 1 includes a housing 10 constituting an outer shell. The housing 10 includes a rectangular tubular body portion 11 having open upper and lower surfaces, a top plate 12 that covers the upper surface of the body portion 11, and a pedestal 13 that supports the body portion 11. The top plate 12 is formed with a laundry loading port 14. The input port 14 is covered with an openable and closable upper lid 15. A control unit 16 is arranged inside the front portion of the top plate 12. The control unit 16 controls the washing operation by the fully automatic washing machine 1 and the washing operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50.

In the housing 10, the outer tank 20 having an open upper surface is elastically suspended and supported by four suspension rods 21 having a vibration isolator. Inside the outer tub 20, a washing / dehydrating tub 22 having an open upper surface is arranged. The washing / dehydrating tub 22 rotates about a rotation axis extending in the vertical direction. A large number of dehydration holes 22a are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the washing / dehydrating tub 22 over the entire circumference. A balance ring 23 is provided on the upper part of the washing / dehydrating tub 22. A pulsator 24 is arranged at the bottom of the washing / dehydrating tub 22. A plurality of blades 24a are radially provided on the surface of the pulsator 24. The washing / dehydrating tub 22 corresponds to the "washing tub" of the present invention.

At the outer bottom of the outer tub 20, a drive unit 30 that generates torque for driving the washing / dehydrating tub 22 and the pulsator 24 is arranged. The drive unit 30 includes a drive motor 31 and a transmission mechanism unit 32. The transmission mechanism unit 32 has a clutch mechanism 32a, and by the switching operation by the clutch mechanism 32a, in the washing step and the rinsing step, the torque of the drive motor 31 is transmitted only to the pulsator 24 to rotate only the pulsator 24 and dehydrate. In the process, the torque of the drive motor 31 is transmitted to the pulsator 24 and the washing / dehydrating tub 22 to rotate the pulsator 24 and the washing / dehydrating tub 22 integrally.

A drainage port 20a is formed on the outer bottom of the outer tank 20. A drain valve 40 is provided in the drain port portion 20a. The drain valve 40 is connected to the drain hose 41. When the drain valve 40 is opened, the water stored in the washing / dehydrating tank 22 and the outer tank 20 is discharged to the outside of the machine through the drain hose 41.

An overflow port 20b is formed in the upper part of the outer tank 20. When water above a predetermined overflow water level is stored in the outer tank 20, water is discharged from the overflow port 20b. An overflow receiving portion 25 is provided on the outer surface of the outer tank 20 so as to cover the overflow port 20b. One end of the overflow pipe 26 is connected to the bottom of the overflow receiving portion 25. The other end of the overflow pipe 26 is connected to the drain hose 41. The water discharged from the overflow port 20b is received by the overflow receiving portion 25 and then flows through the overflow pipe 26 to the drain hose 41.

An ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is arranged substantially in the center of the rear portion of the top plate 12. In the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, a cleaning operation is mainly performed to remove dirt partially adhering to the object to be cleaned prior to washing with the fully automatic washing machine 1.

At the rear of the top plate 12, a storage tank 60 is arranged behind the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, and a drainage receiving portion 70 is arranged below the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. In the storage tank 60, water containing detergent supplied to the water storage tank 210 of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is stored as cleaning water. The storage tank 60 is provided with a supply valve 61 that opens and closes the outlet of the washing water from the inside of the tank.

The drainage receiving unit 70 receives the water discharged from the water storage tank 210. A drainage hole 71 is formed in the drainage receiving portion 70 to discharge the received water. One end of the drainage pipe 72 is connected to the drainage hole 71. The other end of the drainage pipe 72 is connected to the upper part of the overflow pipe 26. The water received by the drainage receiving unit 70 is discharged to the drainage hose 41 through the drainage pipe 72 and the overflow pipe 26.

A water supply device 80 is arranged at the rear of the top plate 12 so as to surround the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. The water supply device 80 has a function of connecting to a water tap and supplying water into the washing / dehydrating tank 22. The water supply device 80 also functions as an automatic charging device for automatically charging a liquid detergent and a softener into the washing / dehydrating tub 22. Further, the water supply device 80 also has a function of supplying washing water to the storage tank 60. The detergent and the softener are liquids used for washing, and hereinafter, the detergent and the softener may be collectively referred to as a "liquid".

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 and the top plate 12 in a state where the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are housed in the storage unit 17. 2 (b) and 2 (c) are perspective views of the main parts of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 and the top plate 12 in a state where the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 are pulled out from the storage unit 17. In FIG. 2C, the cover 17b is not shown so that the inside of the storage portion 17 can be seen.

The top plate 12 is provided with a storage portion 17 in which the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is housed in the central portion of the rear portion. The top plate 12 opens in front of the storage portion 17 as an entrance / exit 17a. A cover 17b is provided at the doorway 17a.

The ultrasonic cleaning device 50 includes an ultrasonic cleaning unit 100, a water storage unit 200, and a main body unit 300. The ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 has an ultrasonic generator that generates ultrasonic waves. The water storage unit 200 is provided with a water storage tank 210 located below the ultrasonic wave generator and for storing wash water. Washing water is supplied to the water storage tank 210 from the supply nozzle 62 connected to the supply valve 61 of the storage tank 60.

As shown in FIG. 2A, when the cleaning operation is performed, the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is pulled out forward from the storage portion 17 and projects to the inside of the input port 14 of the top plate 12. On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 2 (b) and 2 (c), the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is housed in the storage unit 17 when the washing operation is not performed. The doorway 17a is closed by the cover 17b.

As shown in FIG. 2A, a funnel-shaped detergent spout 18 is formed on the upper surface plate 12 on the left rear side of the charging port 14, and a funnel-shaped softener spout 19 is formed on the right rear side of the charging port 14. It is formed. The opening 18a formed in the central portion of the detergent spout 18 is connected to the inlet of the detergent tank 400, which will be described later. The filter 410 is attached to the input port through the opening 18a. Further, the opening 19a formed in the central portion of the softener spout 19 is connected to the inlet of the softener tank 500, which will be described later. The filter 510 is attached to the inlet through the opening 19a. The liquid detergent is charged into the detergent tank 400 through the detergent spout 18, and the liquid softener is charged into the softener tank 500 through the softener spout 19.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 in a state where the water storage unit 200 is separated from the main body unit 300. FIG. 4 is a side sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the main body unit 300.

In the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 is held by the main body unit 300, and the water storage unit 200 is detachably attached to the main body unit 300.

The ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 includes an ultrasonic generator 110 and a housing 120. The ultrasonic generator 110 includes an ultrasonic vibrator 111 and a vibration horn 112 coupled to the ultrasonic vibrator 111. The ultrasonic generator 110 generates ultrasonic waves from the tip of the vibration horn 112 by the high frequency vibration of the ultrasonic vibrator 111. The housing 120 is long in the front-rear direction and has an arm shape such that the tip portion 121 thereof bends downward. The ultrasonic generator 110 is arranged at the front portion in the housing 120. The tip of the vibrating horn 112 is exposed from the opening 122 of the housing 120. The rear portion 123 of the housing 120 is fixed to the upper part of the main body portion 300.

A handle 201 is formed on the front surface of the water storage unit 200. Further, the water storage unit 200 is formed with a water storage tank 210 having a shape that conforms to the shape of the water storage unit 200. A drainage port 211 is formed in the lower part of the rear surface of the water storage tank 210. The drain port 211 is closed by the valve body 220. A valve movable member 230 is connected to the valve body 220. The rear portion 231 of the valve movable member 230 projects to the rear of the water storage portion 200. The valve movable member 230 is urged in the rear direction in which the valve body 220 is closed by a spring (not shown).

When the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is pulled out from the storage portion 17, the drain port 211 is closed by the valve body 220. When the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is housed in the storage section 17, the valve movable member 230 abuts on the rear wall of the drainage receiving section 70 and moves forward. As a result, the valve body 220 moves forward and the drain port 211 is opened. When the drain port 211 is opened, the washing water in the water storage tank 210 is discharged to the drain receiving portion 70.

FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the water supply device 80. 6 (a) and 6 (b) are a plan view and a bottom view of the detergent tank 400, respectively, and FIG. 6 (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA'of FIG. 6 (a). 7 (a) and 7 (b) are a plan view and a bottom view of the softener tank 500, respectively, and FIG. 7 (c) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB'of FIG. 7 (a).

As shown in FIG. 5, the water supply device 80 includes a detergent tank 400, a softener tank 500, and a water supply unit 600.

Liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 400. The softener tank 500 stores a liquid softener. The water supply unit 600 takes in the detergent and the softener from the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500, respectively, and flows the taken-in detergent and the softener into the washing and dehydrating tank 22 by the water supplied to the washing and dehydrating tank 22. In this way, the water supply unit 600 puts the detergent in the detergent tank 400 and the softener in the softener tank 500 into the washing / dehydrating tank 22. The detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500 correspond to the "tank" of the present invention. Further, the water supply unit 600 corresponds to the "input mechanism unit" of the present invention.

As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the detergent tank 400 is made of, for example, a resin material and has a long box shape in the front and back. On the upper surface of the detergent tank 400, a circular input port 401 is formed on the front side. A filter 410 is attached to the slot 401. The filter 410 captures foreign matter that has entered the detergent tank 400 from the inlet 401. On the bottom surface of the detergent tank 400, a circular discharge portion 402 projecting downward is formed on the front side. A cylindrical discharge port 403 extending rearward is formed on the peripheral surface of the discharge portion 402.

As shown in FIG. 6 (c), the detergent tank 400 is provided with a detergent electrode unit 420 in order to detect that the remaining amount of detergent in the tank is low. The detergent electrode unit 420 is composed of a pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422, that is, a first electrode terminal 421 and a second electrode terminal 422.

The first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 are formed of a conductive material such as steel, and have a round bar-shaped terminal portions 421a and 422a and a head portion 421b provided at the upper ends of the terminal portions 421a and 422a. , 422b and. Male screws are formed on the upper portions of the terminal portions 421a and 422a. Further, a cross-shaped groove is formed in each of the heads 421b and 422b so that the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 can be turned by a screwdriver.

On the top surface of the detergent tank 400, a first mounting boss 404 and a second mounting boss 405 projecting inside the tank are formed so as to be arranged in the left-right direction. The first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 are inserted into the detergent tank 400 from above through the first mounting boss 404 and the second mounting boss 405. At this time, the upper portions of the terminal portions 421a and 422a having the male screws are fixed by passing through the first mounting boss 404 and the second mounting boss 405 while being turned. In this way, the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 are fixed to the top surface of the detergent tank 400. The terminal portions 421a and 422a of the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 extend downward from the top surface portion of the detergent tank 400, and their tips are located near the bottom surface portion of the detergent tank 400. The distance between the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 is relatively small, for example, about ten and several millimeters.

When the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1, that is, the remaining amount of the detergent is larger than the predetermined amount and the detergent is sufficiently interposed between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422, the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422. The resistance value generated between them becomes relatively small, the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1, that is, the remaining amount of the detergent is less than the predetermined amount, and most of the detergent is between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422. Alternatively, when there is no intervention at all, almost air is present, so that the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is relatively large. Therefore, when energization is performed between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422, if the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1, the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 are energized by the detergent. If the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1, the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 are not energized by the detergent.

As shown in FIGS. 7 (a) and 7 (b), the softener tank 500 is made of, for example, a resin material and has a long box shape in the front-rear direction. On the upper surface of the softener tank 500, a circular input port 501 is formed on the front side. A filter 510 is mounted on the slot 501. The filter 510 captures foreign matter that has entered the softener tank 500 from the inlet 501. On the bottom surface of the softener tank 500, a circular discharge portion 502 protruding downward is formed on the front side. A cylindrical discharge port 503 extending rearward is formed on the peripheral surface of the discharge portion 502.

As shown in FIG. 7 (c), the softener tank 500 is provided with a softener electrode unit 520 in order to detect that the remaining amount of the softener in the tank is low. The softener electrode unit 520 is composed of a pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522, that is, a first electrode terminal 521 and a second electrode terminal 522.

The configuration of the first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 is the same as that of the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 of the detergent electrode unit 420, and the terminal portions 521a and 522a having male threads and the head having a cross-shaped groove. 521b, 522b and the like.

Similar to the detergent tank 400, the first mounting boss 504 and the second mounting boss 505 are formed on the top surface of the softener tank 500. The first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 are inserted into the softener tank 500 from above through the mounting bosses 504 and 505, and are fixed to the mounting bosses 504 and 505. The terminal portions 521a and 522a of the first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 extend downward from the top surface portion of the softener tank 500, and the tip thereof is located near the bottom surface portion of the softener tank 500. The distance between the first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 is relatively small, for example, about ten and several millimeters.

When the liquid level in the softener tank 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2, that is, the remaining amount of the softener is larger than the predetermined amount and the softener is sufficiently interposed between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522, the pair of electrode terminals The resistance value generated between 521 and 522 becomes relatively small, the liquid level in the softener tank 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2, that is, the remaining amount of the softener is less than the predetermined amount, and the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 When the softener hardly or not intervenes between them, almost air intervenes, so that the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 becomes relatively large. Therefore, when energization is performed between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522, if the liquid level in the softener tank 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2, the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 are energized by the softener. However, if the liquid level in the softener tank 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2, the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 are not energized by the softener.

With reference to FIG. 5, the water supply unit 600 includes a water channel member 610, a water supply valve 620, a first three-way valve 630, a second three-way valve 640, a third three-way valve 650, and a pump 660.

The water channel member 610 is provided with a water injection chamber 611. A water injection port 611a is formed at the front end of the bottom of the water injection chamber 611. The water injection port 611a faces above the washing / dehydrating tub 22.

The water channel member 610 is formed with a first water channel 612 and a second water channel 613 connected to the water injection chamber 611, and also has a water inlet 614 to the first channel 612 and a water inlet 615 to the second channel 613. It will be provided. Further, the water channel member 610 is formed with a branch water channel 616 branching from the first channel 612 for water supply into the storage tank 60. The outlet 616a of the branch channel 616 is connected to the inlet of the storage tank 60.

In the first water channel 612, a second three-way valve 640, a first three-way valve 630, a pump 660, and a third three-way valve 650 are provided in order from the upstream in the middle of the path from the inflow port 614 to the water injection chamber 611. Be placed. Therefore, the first water channel 612 is divided at the positions of the second three-way valve 640, the first three-way valve 630, the pump 660, and the third three-way valve 650, and the upstream connection ports 617a, 617b, and 617c are located at the respective positions. , 617d and downstream connection ports 618a, 618b, 618c, 618d.

The water supply valve 620 is a so-called double valve, and has a first valve 621 and a second valve 622 having a higher rated flow rate than the first valve 621. The water inlet 623 of the water supply valve 620 is connected to the water tap via a water supply hose (not shown). The outlet 624 of the first valve 621 is connected to the inlet 614, and the outlet 625 of the second valve 622 is connected to the inlet 615.

The first three-way valve 630 and the second three-way valve 640 have a first water inlet 631,641, a second water inlet 632,642, and a water outlet 633,643, and the first water inlet 631,641 exits. The state of communicating with the water outlets 633 and 643 and the state of communicating with the second water inlet 632 and 642 and the water outlets 633 and 643 can be switched. The third three-way valve 650 has an inlet 651, a first outlet 652, and a second outlet 653, and communicates the inlet 651 and the first outlet 652, and the inlet 651 and the first. 2 It can be switched to the state of communicating with the water outlet 653.

The first water inlet 631 and the water outlet 633 of the first three-way valve 630 are connected to the upstream connection port 617b and the downstream connection port 618b, respectively. The inlet 651, the first outlet 652, and the second outlet 653 of the third three-way valve 650 are connected to the upstream connection port 617d, the downstream connection port 618d, and the connection port 616b of the branch channel 616, respectively. The first water inlet 641 and the water outlet 643 of the second three-way valve 640 are connected to the upstream connection port 617a and the downstream connection port 618a, respectively.

The pump 660 is a piston type pump. The suction port 661 and the discharge port 662 of the pump 660 are connected to the upstream side connection port 617c and the downstream side connection port 618c, respectively.

The second inlet 632 of the first three-way valve 630 is connected to the outlet 403 of the detergent tank 400 via the rubber detergent supply pipe 430. Further, the second water inlet 642 of the second three-way valve 640 is connected to the discharge port 503 of the softener tank 500 via the rubber softener supply pipe 530.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the fully automatic washing machine 1.

The fully automatic washing machine 1 includes an operation unit 710 and a display unit 720 in addition to the above-described configuration. Further, the control unit 16 includes a control unit 801 and a storage unit 802, an operation detection unit 803, a detergent amount detection unit 804, a softener amount detection unit 805, a display drive unit 806, a motor drive unit 807, and a clutch drive unit 808. It includes a valve drive unit 809 to 814, a pump drive unit 815, and an oscillator drive unit 816.

The operation unit 710 and the display unit 720 can be provided, for example, on the front portion of the top plate 12 or the front portion of the upper lid 15.

The operation unit 710 includes various operation buttons such as a power-on button 711, a power-off button 712, a start button 713, a course selection button 714, a cleaning button 715, a detergent injection button 716, and a softener injection button 717. The power-on button 711 and the power-off button 712 are buttons for turning on and off the power of the fully automatic washing machine 1, respectively. The start button 713 is a button for starting the washing operation and the washing operation. The course selection button 714 is a button for selecting an arbitrary driving course from a plurality of driving courses related to the washing operation. The wash button 715 is a button for selecting a wash operation. The detergent addition button 716 is a button for selecting whether or not to set automatic addition of detergent, and when setting automatic addition, usually, the amount of detergent should be increased or decreased. The softener charging button 717 is used to select whether or not to set the automatic charging of the softener, and when setting the automatic charging, the amount of the softener is usually set to be large or small. It's a button. In addition to the case where the power off button 712 is operated, when the predetermined time elapses without starting the washing operation or the washing operation after the power is turned on, or when the predetermined time elapses after the washing operation is completed. The power of the fully automatic washing machine 1 is cut off.

The display unit 720 includes a plurality of LEDs and a 7-segment display, displays the driving course selected by the course selection button 714, displays the progress of washing operation and the remaining time, the detergent charging button 716 and the softener charging button 717. The setting result is displayed by, that is, the setting display of any one of "normal", "more", "less" and "none", and the display indicating that the detergent and the softener need to be replenished. The display unit 720 corresponds to the "notification unit" of the present invention.

The operation detection unit 803 outputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation button operated by the user to the control unit 801 from among various operation buttons of the operation unit 710.

The detergent amount detection unit 804 is connected to a pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 of the detergent electrode unit 420. The detergent amount detection unit 804 includes a square wave generation circuit, and has a circuit configuration in which a pulse signal having a high voltage pulse width corresponding to the resistance value generated in the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is output to the control unit 801. .. For example, when the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1 and the resistance value between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is relatively low, the pulse width of the high voltage becomes relatively wide. When the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 and the resistance value between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is relatively high, the pulse width of the high voltage becomes relatively narrow.

The softener amount detection unit 805 is connected to a pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 of the softener electrode unit 520. The softener amount detection unit 805 includes a rectangular wave generation circuit, and has a circuit configuration in which a pulse signal having a high voltage pulse width corresponding to the resistance value generated in the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 is output to the control unit 801. There is. For example, when the liquid level in the softener tank 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2 and the resistance value between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 is relatively low, the pulse width of the high voltage becomes relatively wide. When the liquid level in the softener tank 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2 and the resistance value between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 is relatively high, the pulse width of the high voltage becomes relatively narrow.

The resistance value of the detergent and the softener may differ depending on the type. Therefore, when the type of detergent stored in the detergent tank 400 is changed, the high voltage of the pulse signal from the detergent amount detection unit 804 when the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1. The pulse width of is variable. Similarly, when the type of the softener stored in the softener tank 500 is changed, the softener amount detection unit 805 when the liquid level in the softener tank 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2 The pulse width of the high voltage of the pulse signal can change.

The display drive unit 806, the motor drive unit 807, the clutch drive unit 808, the six valve drive units 809 to 814, the pump drive unit 815, and the vibrator drive unit 816 each follow the control signal from the control unit 801 to display the display unit 720. , Drive motor 31, clutch mechanism 32a, water supply valve 620, first three-way valve 630, second three-way valve 640, third three-way valve 650, supply valve 61, drain valve 40, pump 660 and ultrasonic transducer 111. ..

The storage unit 802 includes EEPROM, RAM, and the like. The storage unit 802 stores a program for executing a washing operation of various operation courses and a washing operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. Further, various parameters and various control flags used for executing these programs are stored in the storage unit 802.

The control unit 801 includes a CPU and the like, and is based on each signal from the operation detection unit 803, the detergent amount detection unit 804, the softener amount detection unit 805, etc., according to the program stored in the storage unit 802, and the display drive unit 806. , Motor drive unit 807, clutch drive unit 808, six valve drive units 809 to 814, pump drive unit 815, oscillator drive unit 816, and the like.

The fully automatic washing machine 1 can perform washing operations on various driving courses. In the washing operation, the washing step, the intermediate dehydration step, the rinsing step and the final dehydration step are executed in order.

In the washing step and the rinsing step, the pulsator 24 rotates to the right and to the left with water stored in the washing / dehydrating tub 22. A water flow is generated in the washing / dehydrating tub 22 due to the rotation of the pulsator 24. In the washing process, the laundry is washed by the generated water flow and the detergent contained in the water. In the rinsing process, the generated water stream rinses the laundry.

In the intermediate dehydration step and the final dehydration step, the washing / dehydrating tub 22 and the pulsator 24 are integrally rotated at high speed. The laundry is dehydrated by the action of the centrifugal force generated in the washing / dehydrating tub 22.

When the automatic detergent charging is set based on the operation of the detergent charging button 716, the detergent is automatically charged into the washing / dehydrating tank 22 by the water supply device 80 at the time of water supply in the washing step. At this time, the third three-way valve 650 is switched to a state in which the water inlet 651 and the first water outlet 652 communicate with each other, and the first water channel 612 is cut off from the storage tank 60 and connected to the water injection chamber 611. ing. Further, the second three-way valve 640 is switched to a state in which the first water inlet 641 and the water outlet 643 communicate with each other, and the first water channel 612 is connected at the position of the second three-way valve 640.

First, the first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which the second water inlet 632 and the water outlet 633 communicate with each other. As a result, the detergent can flow into the first water channel 612. The pump 660 operates, and the air on the upstream side of the pump 660 in the first water channel 612 is sucked and the upstream side becomes a negative pressure. As a result, as shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 5, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 400 is sucked into the first water channel 612 via the detergent supply pipe 430. An amount of detergent corresponding to the operating time of the pump 660 is accumulated in the first water channel 612.

Next, the first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which the first water inlet 631 and the water outlet 633 communicate with each other. As a result, the detergent cannot flow into the first water channel 612. Further, the first water channel 612 is connected at the position of the first three-way valve 630. The first valve 621 of the water supply valve 620 is opened, and water from the tap is supplied into the first water channel 612 as shown by the solid line arrow in FIG. The water flowing in the first water channel 612 flushes out the detergent accumulated in the first water channel 612. The detergent washed away by the water flows into the water injection chamber 611 together with the water, and is charged into the washing / dehydrating tank 22 from the water injection port 611a.

Further, in the water supply valve 620, the second valve 622 is opened at the same time as the first valve 621 is opened, and water is supplied to the washing / dehydrating tub 22. As shown by the broken line arrow in FIG. 5, water from the tap is supplied into the second water channel 613, flows through the second water channel 613, reaches the water injection chamber 611, and is discharged from the water injection port 611a into the washing / dehydrating tank 22. Will be done. At this time, the flow rate of the water flowing through the second water channel 613 is larger than the flow rate of the water flowing through the first water channel 612. When the water level in the washing / dehydrating tub 22 reaches a predetermined washing water level, the first valve 621 and the second valve 622 are closed, and the water supply is terminated.

When the automatic charging of the softener is set based on the operation of the softener charging button 717, the softener is automatically charged into the washing / dehydrating tub 22 by the water supply device 80 at the time of water supply in the rinsing step. At this time, as in the washing step, the first water channel 612 is in a state of being connected to the water injection chamber 611. Further, the first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which the first water inlet 631 and the water outlet 633 communicate with each other, and the first water channel 612 is connected at the position of the first three-way valve 630.

First, the second three-way valve 640 is switched to a state in which the second water inlet 642 and the water outlet 643 communicate with each other. As a result, the softener can flow into the first water channel 612. The pump 660 is activated and, as shown by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 5, the liquid softener in the softener tank 500 is sucked into the first water channel 612 via the softener supply pipe 530. An amount of softener corresponding to the operating time of the pump 660 is accumulated in the first water channel 612.

Next, the second three-way valve 640 is switched to a state in which the first water inlet 641 and the water outlet 643 communicate with each other. As a result, the softener cannot flow into the first water channel 612. Further, the first water channel 612 is connected at the position of the second three-way valve 640. The first valve 621 is opened and water from the tap is supplied into the first channel 612, as shown by the solid arrow in FIG. The softener accumulated in the first water channel 612 is swept away by the water flowing in the first water channel 612 and flows into the water injection chamber 611, and is charged into the washing / dehydrating tank 22 from the water injection port 611a.

Further, as in the washing step, the second valve 622 is opened at the same time as the first valve 621 to supply water to the washing / dehydrating tub 22.

The water level in the washing / dehydrating tub 22 in the washing step and the rinsing step, that is, the amount of water is determined according to the load amount of the laundry detected before water supply. The amount of the liquid agent to be charged into the washing / dehydrating tank 22, that is, the amount of the liquid agent used is determined according to the amount of water.

For example, a reference water amount, for example, an amount of a liquid agent for 30 liters is associated with various types of liquid agents and stored in advance in the storage unit 802. The user selects and sets the type of the liquid agent contained in the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500 from the types of various liquid agents by a predetermined setting operation. The control unit 801 reads out the amount of the liquid agent for the set type of reference water amount from the storage unit 802, and calculates the amount of the liquid agent corresponding to the water amount from the amount of the read liquid agent and the amount of water determined according to the load amount. Then, the calculated amount of the liquid agent is used as the amount of the liquid agent used in this washing operation. When the detergent input button 716 and the softener input button 717 are set to "more" or "less", the calculated amount of the liquid is increased or decreased by a predetermined ratio, and the amount of the liquid used is increased or decreased. It is said that.

At the time of water supply in the washing step, the determined amount of detergent is introduced from the detergent tank 400 into the first water channel 612 of the water supply unit 600 by the operation of the pump 660. Similarly, during water supply in the rinsing step, a determined amount of softener is introduced from the softener tank 500 into the first channel 612 of the water supply unit 600 by the operation of the pump 660.

If the automatic detergent injection is not set, the detergent is not introduced from the detergent tank 400 into the water supply unit 600 and tap water is not supplied to the first water channel 612 during water supply in the washing process, and the washing / dehydrating tank is not used. Detergent is not automatically charged into 22. In this case, only water is supplied to the washing / dehydrating tank 22 by the second water channel 613 of the water supply unit 600. The detergent is manually charged into the washing / dehydrating tub 22 by the user. Similarly, when the automatic charging of the softener is not set, the softener is not introduced from the softener tank 500 into the water supply unit 600 and tap water is not supplied to the first water channel 612 during water supply in the rinsing process. , The softener is not automatically charged into the washing / dehydrating tub 22. In this case, only water is supplied to the washing / dehydrating tank 22 by the second water channel 613 of the water supply unit 600. The softener is manually charged into the washing / dehydrating tub 22 by the user.

In the fully automatic washing machine 1, the washing operation can be performed by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50.

During the washing operation, after the washing water is supplied from the storage tank 60 to the water storage tank 210, the dirt-attached portion of the laundry is set between the water storage tank 210 and the ultrasonic generator 110. The portion to which the dirt adheres is immersed in the washing water stored in the water storage tank 210 and comes into contact with the tip surface of the ultrasonic generator 110. When the ultrasonic wave generator 110 is activated, ultrasonic waves are generated from the tip thereof. Dirt is peeled off from the object to be cleaned by the action of ultrasonic waves. At this time, the detergency is enhanced by the force of the detergent.

At the time of water supply in the washing operation, the washing water is supplied into the storage tank 60 by the water supply device 80 before the water is supplied to the water storage tank 210. At this time, the supply valve 61 is closed.

First, the third three-way valve 650 is switched to a state in which the water inlet 651 and the second water outlet 653 communicate with each other. As a result, the first water channel 612 is cut off from the water injection chamber 611 and is connected to the storage tank 60 via the branch water channel 616. Similar to the washing step, after the first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state where the detergent can flow into the first water channel 612, the pump 660 is activated and the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 400 is sucked into the first water channel 612. And accumulates in the first waterway 612.

Next, the first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which the detergent cannot flow into the first water channel 612 and the first water channel 612 is connected at the position of the first three-way valve 630. After that, the first valve 621 of the water supply valve 620 is opened, and the water from the tap is supplied into the first water channel 612. The detergent accumulated in the first water channel 612 is washed away by the water flowing in the first water channel 612, and the detergent is mixed with the water to become cleaning water. The wash water passes through the branch water channel 616 and flows into the storage tank 60. When a predetermined amount of washing water is accumulated in the storage tank 60, the first valve 621 is closed.

The supply valve 61 is opened, and the washing water in the storage tank 60 is supplied into the water storage tank 210 via the supply nozzle 62. After that, every time the washing water in the water storage tank 210 is reduced due to water absorption into the laundry during the washing operation, the reduced amount of washing water is replenished from the storage tank 60 to the water storage tank 210.

The amount of detergent contained in the washing water and charged into the storage tank 60 is changed according to the type of detergent stored in the detergent tank 400. For example, the control unit 801 reads out the amount of detergent with respect to the reference water amount in the type of detergent in the detergent tank 400 from the storage unit 802, reduces the read out amount by a predetermined ratio, and is the amount of detergent to be added. Use amount.

When the washing water in the storage tank 60 is supplied to the water storage tank 210, the remaining amount of the washing water in the storage tank 60 is reduced. In this case, the washing water is supplied again from the water supply device 80 into the storage tank 60. The amount of detergent used at this time is, for example, the same as the amount used at the time of the first water supply. Alternatively, the amount of the second detergent used may be less than that at the time of the first water supply, in consideration of the fact that the amount of the washing water supplied is reduced by the amount of the washing water remaining in the storage tank 60. The amount of detergent used in the washing operation is the sum of the initial amount and the second amount used.

If the washing water used in the previous washing operation remains in the water storage tank 210 when the washing operation is started and the washing water is hardly supplied from the storage tank 60 to the water storage tank 210, the storage tank is used. No second wash water supply to 60 is performed.

By the way, the fully automatic washing machine 1 of the present embodiment is provided with a function of notifying that the liquid agent needs to be replenished when the amount of the liquid agent in the detergent tank 400 or the softener tank 500 becomes small. There is. Hereinafter, this function will be referred to as a liquid agent replenishment notification function.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a control process for the liquid agent replenishment notification function. 10 (a) and 10 (b) are flowcharts showing the first replenishment notification process and the second replenishment notification process included in the control process for the liquid agent replenishment notification function, respectively.

The control process of FIG. 9 is repeatedly executed in parallel by the control unit 801 for each of the detergent in the detergent tank 400 and the softener in the softener tank 500. No softener is used in the cleaning operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. Therefore, with respect to the softener in the softener tank 500, the process of determining the end of the cleaning operation of S12 in FIG. 9 is not performed.

Hereinafter, the control process of the liquid agent replenishment notification function will be described by taking the control process of the detergent in the detergent tank 400 as an example.

With reference to FIG. 9, the control unit 801 determines whether or not the washing operation has been completed, whether or not the washing operation has been completed, and whether or not the power has been turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1 by operating the power-on button 711. It is monitored whether or not a confirmation operation for confirming the remaining amount of the liquid agent has been performed (S11, S12, S13, S14). The confirmation operation can be a so-called special operation, for example, an operation of pressing the power-on button 711 and a specific operation button at the same time.

When the washing operation is completed (S11: YES) or when the washing operation is completed (S12), the control unit 801 executes the first replenishment notification process shown in FIG. 10A.

With reference to FIG. 10A, the control unit 801 energizes the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 for a predetermined time, for example, 2 seconds (S101). Then, the control unit 801 detects the high voltage pulse width of the pulse signal output from the detergent amount detection unit 804 during energization, and the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is a predetermined liquid level based on the detected pulse width. It is determined whether or not it is lower than L1 (S102). Whether or not the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 is determined by whether or not the detected pulse width is larger than the threshold value set according to the type of detergent set by the user.

When the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (102: YES), the control unit 801 adds the amount of detergent used in the current washing operation or washing operation X to the integrated value XT of the amount used. Then, the integrated value XT of the new usage amount is obtained (S103). Then, the control unit 801 determines whether or not the integrated value XT of the usage amount is larger than the threshold value (S104). Here, the threshold value is, for example, when the amount of the detergent when the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is substantially at the predetermined liquid level L1 is subtracted from the amount of the threshold value, the amount of detergent for one washing operation is the detergent tank. It is set to a value that remains within 400.

When the integrated value XT of the usage amount is equal to or less than the threshold value (S104: NO), the control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage amount in the storage unit 802 (S106). At this time, the integrated value XT of the usage amount is stored in the EEPROM of the storage unit 802 so as to be maintained even if the power supply of the fully automatic washing machine 1 is cut off.

When the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1, the amount X of the detergent used is added each time the washing operation or the washing operation is completed, so that the integrated value XT of the amount used increases. As a result, when the integrated value XT of the usage amount exceeds the threshold value (S104: YES), the control unit 801 notifies that the detergent tank 400 needs to be replenished with the detergent, assuming that the replenishment condition is satisfied. Is performed by the display unit 720 (S105). For example, on the display unit 720, the LED assigned to the notification indicating that replenishment is necessary is turned on or blinks. The notification by the display unit 720 is performed for a predetermined time, for example, 20 minutes. When the notification by the display unit 720 is completed, the power of the fully automatic washing machine 1 is cut off.

The control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage amount exceeding the threshold value in the storage unit 802 (S106).

In S102, when the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is not lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (S102: NO), the control unit 801 sets the integrated value XT of the usage amount to zero (S107). That is, if the integrated value XT of the usage amount is not zero, it is reset to zero, and if the integrated value XT of the usage amount is zero, it remains zero. When the liquid level lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 becomes higher than the predetermined liquid level L1 by replenishing the detergent in the detergent tank 400, the integrated value XT of the usage amount is reset to zero.

The control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage amount, which is zero, in the storage unit 802 (S106).

In this way, the first replenishment notification process is completed.

On the other hand, when the power is turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1 (S13: YES) or when the confirmation operation is performed (S14: YES), the control unit 801 performs the second replenishment notification shown in FIG. 10 (b). Execute the process.

With reference to FIG. 10B, the control unit 801 energizes the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 for a predetermined time (S201). Then, the control unit 801 detects the high voltage pulse width of the pulse signal output from the detergent amount detection unit 804 during energization, and the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is a predetermined liquid level based on the detected pulse width. It is determined whether or not it is lower than L1 (S202).

When the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (S202: YES), the control unit 801 determines whether or not the integrated value XT of the usage amount is larger than the threshold value (S203). When the integrated value XT of the usage amount is larger than the threshold value (S203: YES), the control unit 801 causes the display unit 720 to notify the display unit 720 to replenish the detergent in the detergent tank 400, assuming that the replenishment condition is satisfied (S204). ). The notification by the display unit 720 is performed until, for example, the power to the fully automatic washing machine 1 is cut off. However, when the detergent is replenished in the detergent tank 400 and the energization state of the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422 is confirmed in the first replenishment notification process at the end of the washing operation, the notification is stopped.

In the second replenishment notification process, it is determined that the integrated value XT of the usage amount is larger than the threshold value, and the display unit 720 notifies the first replenishment notification after the previous washing operation or the washing operation is completed. In the process, it is determined that the integrated value XT of the usage amount is larger than the threshold value, and the user does not replenish the detergent in the detergent tank 400 even though the display unit 720 notifies the user.

In S202, when the control unit 801 determines that the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is not lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (S202: NO), the integrated value XT of the usage amount is set to zero (S205). Then, the control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage amount, which is zero, in the storage unit 802 (S206).

In this way, the second replenishment notification process is completed.

The control process for the softener in the softener tank 500 is the same as the control process for the detergent in the detergent tank 400. That is, energization is performed between the pair of electrode terminals 521 and 522 based on the arrival of the timing when the washing operation is completed, the timing when the power is turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1, or the timing when the confirmation operation is performed. Based on the conduction state, it is determined whether or not the liquid level in the softener tank 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2. Then, when the integrated value XT of the amount of the softener used exceeds the threshold value in a state where the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2, the display unit 720 notifies the user. For example, on the display unit 720, the LED assigned to the notification indicating that the softener needs to be replenished blinks or lights up.

<Effect of embodiment>
As described above, according to the present embodiment, based on the change in the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 arranged in the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500, the inside of those tanks. It is necessary to replenish the liquid agent based on the fact that it is determined whether or not the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 and the replenishment conditions including the fact that the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 are satisfied. Is notified by the display unit 720. As a result, the user can replenish the detergent and the softener at the timing when the remaining amount of the detergent and the softener in the softener tank 500 in the detergent tank 400 is low.

Further, according to the present embodiment, a pair is based on the arrival of the timing at which the washing operation is completed, the timing at which the washing operation is completed, the timing at which the power is turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1, or the timing at which the confirmation operation is performed. Energization is performed between the electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, and 522. As a result, it is possible to energize between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, and 522 at a timing at which the user can easily exist near the fully automatic washing machine 1 and can easily notice the notification by the display unit 720, which is effective. It is possible to carry out energization without waste, shorten the energization time, and suppress the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion on the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the amount of liquid used for each washing operation is integrated based on the fact that the liquid levels in the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500 are lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2. When the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 and the integrated value XT of the used amount exceeds the threshold value, the display unit 720 notifies that the replenishment condition is satisfied. As a result, the liquid agent can be replenished at the timing when the remaining amount of the liquid agent becomes less than the remaining amount when the liquid level becomes lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, so that the replenishment interval of the liquid agent is lengthened. It is possible to reduce the time and effort of the user. Moreover, since not only the washing operation but also the amount of detergent used for each washing operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is integrated, the amount of detergent used can be accurately obtained.

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and the embodiments of the present invention can be changed in various ways other than the above. ..

For example, in the above embodiment, the timing when the power is turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1 by the operation of the power on button 711, the timing when the confirmation operation for confirming the remaining amount of the liquid agent is performed, and the washing operation are completed. All the timings were set as the detection timings at which energization was performed between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, and 522. However, all the above three timings do not have to be the detection timings, and at least one timing may be the detection timing. Further, in the above embodiment, the timing at which the washing operation is completed is set as the detection timing, but the timing at which the washing operation is completed may not be set as the detection timing. If the timing at which the washing operation is completed is not set as the detection timing and the first replenishment notification process based on the end of the washing operation is not performed, the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500 are used in S202 of the second replenishment notification process. When it is determined that the liquid level in the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, the processing in which the detergent usage amount X in the previous washing operation is added to the integrated value XT of the usage amount, and the usage amount after the addition. The process of storing the integrated value XT in the storage unit 802 is executed.

Further, in the above embodiment, the amount of detergent used in each washing operation and each washing operation is based on the fact that the liquid levels in the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500 are lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2. For the integration and softener, the integration of the usage amount for each washing operation is started, and when the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 and the integrated value XT of the usage amount exceeds the threshold value, the replenishment condition is satisfied. As a result, the display unit 720 was notified. However, instead of accumulating the amount used, the integration of the number of washing operations and the number of operations of the washing operation is started for the detergent, and the integration of the washing operation is started for the softener, and the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 and the operation is performed. When the integrated value of the number of times exceeds the threshold value, the display unit 720 may be notified on the assumption that the replenishment condition is satisfied. Also in this case, the liquid agent is replenished at the timing when the remaining amount of the liquid agent becomes less than the remaining amount when the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500 becomes lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2. Therefore, the replenishment interval of the liquid agent can be lengthened. Further, a configuration may be adopted in which the usage amount and the number of operations are not included in the establishment conditions. In this case, when the liquid levels in the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500 are lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, the display unit 720 notifies that the replenishment condition is satisfied.

Further, in the above embodiment, the fully automatic washing machine 1 is provided with an ultrasonic cleaning device 50, and is provided with a supply nozzle 62 and a storage tank 60 for supplying water to the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. However, the fully automatic washing machine 1 may be configured not to be provided with the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, the supply nozzle 62, and the storage tank 60. In this case, the water supply device 80 is not provided with the third three-way valve 650 and the branch water channel 616. Then, in the control process for the liquid agent replenishment notification function of FIG. 9, the process of determining the end of the washing operation of S12 is not performed.

Further, the shape of the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 and the arrangement in the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500 are not limited to those of the above embodiment, and any remaining amount of the liquid agent can be detected. It may be a shape or an arrangement.

Further, in the above embodiment, the water supply device 80 includes the detergent tank 400 and the softener tank 500, and both the detergent and the softener can be automatically charged into the washing / dehydrating tank 22. However, the water supply device 80 may be configured not to include either the detergent tank 400 or the softener tank 500.

Further, in the above embodiment, the detergent and the softener are added to the first water channel 612 as a charging mechanism for automatically charging the detergent in the detergent tank 400 and the softener in the softener tank 500 into the washing / dehydrating tank 22. A water supply unit 600 was used, which was taken in and poured into the washing / dehydrating tank 22 by the water flowing in the first water channel 612. However, if the detergent and the softener can be automatically charged into the washing / dehydrating tank 22, a charging mechanism unit having a configuration different from that of the water supply unit 600 may be used.

Further, in the above embodiment, the detergent amount detecting unit 804 is configured to output a pulse signal in which the pulse width of the high voltage changes according to the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 421 and 422. The circuit configuration may be such that a detection signal different from the pulse signal such as a voltage signal having a different magnitude is output. Similarly, the softener amount detection unit 805 may also have a circuit configuration that outputs a detection signal different from the pulse signal.

Further, in the above embodiment, the display unit 720 notifies that the liquid agent needs to be replenished. However, a speaker (not shown) provided in the fully automatic washing machine 1 may notify by sound such as voice indicating that the liquid agent needs to be replenished.

Further, in the above embodiment, the fully automatic washing machine 1 is shown. However, the present invention can also be applied to washing machines other than the fully automatic washing machine 1, for example, a drum type washing machine having a horizontal axis type drum as a washing tub. The present invention can also be applied to a fully automatic washer-dryer and a drum-type washer-dryer having a drying function.

In addition, various modifications of the embodiment of the present invention can be made as appropriate within the scope of the technical idea shown in the claims.

1 Fully automatic washing machine (washing machine)
10 housing
22 Washing / dehydrating tub (washing tub)
50 Ultrasonic cleaning device
80 Water supply device
110 ultrasonic generator
210 water tank
400 Detergent tank (tank)
421,422 A pair of electrode terminals
500 Fabric softener tank (tank)
521,522 A pair of electrode terminals
600 Water supply unit (input mechanism)
720 display unit (notification unit)
801 Control unit

Claims (5)

A washing tub that is placed inside the housing and where laundry is washed,
A tank that stores laundry liquid, and
A charging mechanism unit for charging the liquid in the tank into the washing tub,
A pair of electrode terminals arranged in the tank and
A control unit that determines whether or not the liquid level in the tank is lower than a predetermined liquid level based on the change in the resistance value that occurs between the pair of electrode terminals.
Equipped with a notification unit,
The control unit
Based on the arrival of a predetermined detection timing, the pair of electrode terminals are energized for a predetermined time.
Based on the establishment of the replenishment condition including that the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level, the notification unit is made to notify that the liquid agent needs to be replenished.
A washing machine that features that. In the washing machine according to claim 1,
The detection timing includes at least one of the timing when the power is turned on to the washing machine, the timing when the operation for confirming the remaining amount of the liquid agent is performed, and the timing when the washing operation is completed.
A washing machine that features that. In the washing machine according to claim 1 or 2.
Based on the fact that the liquid level in the tank becomes lower than the predetermined liquid level, the control unit starts integrating the amount of the liquid agent used or the number of washing operation operations for each washing operation.
The replenishment condition is satisfied when the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the amount used or the integrated value of the number of operations exceeds the predetermined threshold value.
A washing machine that features that. In the washing machine according to claim 1 or 2.
The liquid agent in the tank contains a liquid detergent and contains.
It has a water storage tank in which water containing the detergent charged by the charging mechanism unit is stored, and ultrasonic waves generated by an ultrasonic generator are applied to the laundry immersed in the water in the water storage tank. Further equipped with an ultrasonic cleaning device for washing laundry,
The detection timing includes the timing at which the washing operation is completed and the timing at which the washing operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device is completed.
A washing machine that features that. In the washing machine according to claim 4,
Based on the fact that the liquid level in the tank becomes lower than the predetermined liquid level, the control unit integrates the amount of the detergent used for each washing operation and each washing operation or the number of operations of the washing operation and the washing operation. Start and
The replenishment condition is satisfied when the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the amount used or the integrated value of the number of operations exceeds the predetermined threshold value.
A washing machine that features that.

Images