JP3540724B2 - Washing machine - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a washing machine, and more particularly, to a spiral type fully automatic washing machine.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In a general spiral-type fully automatic washing machine, a bottomed cylindrical outer tub is suspended and supported by a suspension rod for absorbing vibration, and a number of dehydration holes are also provided inside the outer tub, also having a bottomed cylindrical shape. A perforated washing / dewatering tub is rotatably arranged, and a pulsator for stirring is rotatably provided on the inner bottom.
[0003]
The usual procedure for using this type of washing machine is as follows. First, the user stores the laundry in the washing / dehydrating tub, and presses a start button to instruct the start of the laundry. Then, for example, the pulsator is rotationally driven for a short time, and the amount of the laundry is detected according to the rotational load at that time. Based on the amount of laundry detected at this time, the water level and the strength of the water flow at the time of washing and rinsing are determined. Since the display panel displays the determined water level or an appropriate amount of detergent corresponding to the water level, the user inputs an appropriate amount of detergent into the washing and dewatering tub with reference to the display. On the other hand, when the water level is determined, the water supply valve is automatically opened to start water supply into the outer tank. Then, when the water is supplied to the set water level, the water supply valve is closed, and the pulsator rotates to start substantial washing.
[0004]
When a reservation operation is performed, an appropriate amount of detergent is stored in advance in a detergent container provided at a water inlet above the washing / dewatering tub. Then, at the time of supplying water during the washing process, the detergent flows out by the water passing through the detergent container and is automatically charged into the washing / dewatering tub.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
Such a conventional washing machine has the following problems. In order to exhibit high washing performance in a washing machine, it is preferable that the detergent is well dissolved in water at the start of the washing operation, that is, at the time when the pulsator starts to rotate. However, when the user puts the detergent, the detergent is not always dropped to a position where the water poured from the water inlet at the time of water supply falls. In practice, the user often does not pay attention to the position of the detergent. Therefore, at the time of water supply, the laundry floats with the detergent on the laundry that has not yet absorbed water, and the detergent drops below the water after the pulsator starts to rotate and the laundry is agitated. Often it is. In particular, powder detergents and powdered soaps are hardly dissolved only by immersion in water, and often remain solid in water until stirred by a pulsator.
[0006]
As described above, in the conventional washing machine, it takes time until the detergent is completely dissolved, and therefore, a substantial washing operation time is shortened and sufficient washing performance cannot be exhibited. In order to avoid this, it is conceivable to lengthen the washing operation time in consideration of the time until the detergent is dissolved, but this has a drawback that the time required until the end of washing becomes longer. .
[0007]
Furthermore, since the water falling from the water inlet only falls on some of the laundry, even when the water supply is completed, some of the laundry hardly absorbs water and is stirred by the rotation of the pulsator. In many cases, water absorption begins only after a while. Even if the detergent is dissolved in water, washing is not performed unless the laundry absorbs water, which is another factor that deteriorates the washing performance.
[0008]
The present invention has been made in order to solve such a problem, and a main object of the present invention is to promote the dissolution of a detergent at the time of water supply and at the same time promote the water absorption of laundry so that high washing performance in a washing operation is achieved. It is to provide a washing machine which can be obtained.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
According to the present invention made to solve the above problems,WashThe washing machine has a washing and dewatering tub that is rotatable inside the outer tub.A stirring blade was rotatably disposed at the inner bottom of the washing and dewatering tub.In the washing machine,
a) a water supply means for externally supplying water into the washing and dewatering tub,
b) a water circulation means for sucking water stored at the bottom of the washing and dewatering tub, pushing it up to the top of the washing and dewatering tub and discharging it into the tub;
c) Blade rotation drive means for rotationally driving the stirring blade,
d) From the middle of water supply by the water supply means, the water supply is substantially finished, and the washing operation is started by rotating the stirring blades by the blade rotation drive means. Operation control means for discharging water from the upper part of the water tank toward the inside of the tank,
The operation control means is provided with an operation period and an operation suspension period before the operation of the water circulation means is completed, and a first water flow for rotating only the stirring blade in a predetermined pattern during the washing operation, And the second water flow combining rotation of the agitating blades is switched and executed, and the water circulation means is operated during the execution period of the first water flow, and the operation is performed during the execution period of the second water flow. PauseIt is characterized by:
[0019]
Embodiments and effects of the present invention
According to the present inventionWashAccording to the rinsing machine, at the time of supplying water, the water stored at the bottom of the washing and dewatering tub is pushed up to the top of the washing and dewatering tub, and the water falls from the laundry contained in the washing and dewatering tub.You.
[0020]
Therefore, no matter where the detergent is placed in the washing and dewatering tub, the detergent directly flows down the water due to the falling water, and the dissolution is promoted by the stirring action by the falling pressure of the water. . Further, since the water containing the detergent is stirred in the process of being sucked and discharged by the water circulation means, the dissolution of the detergent is further promoted.. ThisTherefore, the washing effect can be sufficiently exhibited from the beginning of the washing operation, and high washing performance can be obtained.
[0021]
In addition, when the detergent water is dropped from above the laundry, mechanical pressure is exerted on the laundry located particularly near the water surface or the laundry exposed on the water surface, so that the detergent water is generated by the gap between the fibers. More opportunities to pass. That is, it is possible to obtain the same effect as the circulation hose using the pump action at the time of rotation of the stirring blade provided in the conventional washing machine, without rotating the stirring blade. In addition, circulating detergent water improves foaming. With these, the cleaning effect can be further enhanced.
[0023]
Although the circulation of water as described above is very useful for accelerating the dissolution of the detergent, it is not always completely dissolved at the time when the water supply is substantially completed and the washing operation is started. The same applies to the water absorption of laundry. According to the present inventionWashAccording to the rinsing machine, the circulation of water by the water circulating means is continuously performed for a while after the washing operation is started by rotating the stirring blade. Therefore, even if the detergent dissolves or the laundry absorbs insufficient water at the start of the washing operation, the water continues to fall from above, and the detergent is stirred in the process of circulating the water. Is promoted, and the water absorption of the laundry is also promoted.
[0029]
Also,In the water flow period 2, the water flow generated in one direction due to the rotation of the washing and dewatering tub and the water flow generated in the opposite direction due to the rotation of the stirring blades collide to generate a large vertical water flow. However, this has the effect of changing the laundry in the vertical direction. On the other hand, since a mass of laundry often rises greatly above the water surface, when water is discharged from above, there is a high possibility that a large splash of water will occur upon the laundry. Therefore, if the operation of the water circulating means is stopped during this period, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a large water splash, and,foamThe effect of preventing the excessive occurrence of can also be achieved.
[0031]
【Example】
Hereinafter, an embodiment of a washing machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0032]
FIG. 1 is a side sectional view showing the configuration of the washing machine of the present embodiment. Inside the housing 1 of the washing machine, a cylindrical outer tub 2 with a bottom is provided with a front hanging rod 3 and a rear hanging rod 4 (one each of which is visible in the figure, but actually two each are present). ) So as to be inclined forward. The front upper portion of the housing 1 also protrudes in correspondence with the upper front projection of the outer tub 2. Inside the outer tub 2, a washing and dewatering tub 5 having a large number of dehydration holes in a peripheral wall is rotatably supported about a main shaft 6. A pulsator 7 for stirring the laundry is disposed at the bottom of the washing and dewatering tub 5, and a motor 8 for direct drive and a clutch 9 for switching power are provided above the extension of the main shaft 6. Has been. The clutch 9 mainly rotates only the pulsator 7 in one direction or both directions during the washing operation and the rinsing operation, and rotates the washing / dewatering tub 5 and the pulsator 7 integrally in one direction (this is referred to as a normal rotation direction) during the spin-drying operation. The switching is performed to make it possible.
[0033]
At the upper rear of the outer tub 2 is provided a water inlet 10 provided with a detergent container and a soft finish agent container for charging a detergent or the like housed therein. A water supply pipe 11 provided with a water supply valve 12 and a finish agent valve 13 on the way is connected to the water supply port 10. When the water supply valve 12 is opened, the water supply port 11 is supplied through an external water tap or the like through the water supply pipe 11. When the finishing agent valve 13 is opened, water flows into the finishing agent container of the water inlet 10 through the water supply pipe 11, and in any case, the water flows into the lower outer tub 2. The water is spouted from the water inlet 10. One end of a drain pipe 14 is connected to the front end of the bottom of the outer tub 2, that is, the lowest part, and the drain pipe 14 is opened and closed by a drain valve 15. Although not shown, the other end of the drain pipe 14 is connected to an external drain ditch via an upright drain hose.
[0034]
A circulation pump 16 is attached to the lower side of the bottom of the outer tub 2, and a suction hose 17 connected to the suction port side of the circulation pump 16 is provided in the drain pipe 14 between the outer tub 2 and the drain valve 15. It is connected to the. On the other hand, a circulating water channel 18 erected outside the outer tub 2 is connected to the discharge port side of the circulating pump 16, and the upper end thereof extends to the upper portion of the outer tub 2 and is directed toward the inside of the washing and dewatering tub 5. The outlet 19 is formed. That is, when the circulating pump 16 is driven in a state where water is stored at the bottom of the outer tub 2, the water sucked from the outer tub 2 via the suction hose 17 is pumped to the circulating water channel 18, and the inside of the circulating water channel 18 is supplied. The raised water is discharged from the discharge port 19 into the washing / dewatering tub 5.
[0035]
As described above, in the washing machine of the present embodiment, the outer tub 2 and the washing and dewatering tub 5 are inclined forward, so that the upper surface opening faces forward rather than vertically upward. That is, the center axis CL of the outer tub 2 is arranged so as to be inclined by a predetermined inclination angle α with respect to the vertical line VL. Therefore, the user standing in front of the washing machine can easily see the bottom of the washing and dewatering tub 5 and can easily take out the laundry. Here, if the inclination angle α is in the range of about 5 to 20 °, the laundry can be easily taken out sufficiently, and the protrusion of the housing 1 does not need to be too large. In this embodiment, the inclination angle α is set to about 10 °.
[0036]
FIG. 2 is a view showing the reach of water discharged from the discharge port 19 with respect to the inner bottom surface of the washing and dewatering tub 5. The center of the water reaching area 20 substantially covers the center of the pulsator 7, and both ends of the reaching area 20 reach near the inside of the side wall of the washing and dewatering tub 5. Therefore, if the washing and dewatering tub 5 is rotated while discharging water from the discharge port 19 as described later, the water falls on substantially the entire inner bottom surface of the washing and dewatering tub 5. The reaching range 21 of the water discharged from the water inlet 10 is set at a position closer to the side wall of the washing and dewatering tub 5 than the reaching range 20.
[0037]
FIG. 3 is an electrical configuration diagram of a main part of the washing machine of the present embodiment. At the center of the control, a control unit 30 including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, a timer, and the like is installed. The control unit 30 receives an operation signal from a key input unit 31 having a plurality of buttons, a lid opening / closing signal interlocking with the opening / closing of the upper lid from a lid switch 32, and receives a water level stored in the outer tub 2 from a water level sensor 33. A water level detection signal according to the water level is input. The control unit 30 controls the rotation of the motor 8 via the inverter driving unit 34, and opens and closes the water supply valve 12, the finishing agent valve 13, and the drain valve 15, and connects the clutch 9 via the load driving unit 35. Control the detachment operation and the operation / stop of the circulation pump 16. Further, the control unit 30 displays the reception state of the key input, the progress of the washing, and the like on the display unit 36, and makes the buzzer 37 sound as necessary.
[0038]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of a standard washing process in the washing machine of the present embodiment. The operation of the washing machine will be schematically described with reference to FIG. When the user stores the laundry in the washing and dewatering tub 5 and presses the start button by the key input unit 31, the amount of the laundry put into the washing and dewatering tub 5, that is, the load amount is detected before water is supplied. (Step S1). Specifically, the pulsator 7 is rotated for a short time, and the load amount is determined according to the time during which the inertial rotation continues. Of course, the load amount detection is not limited to this method, and any method may be used. The water level (hereinafter, referred to as “set water level”) at the time of washing or pool rinsing described below is determined according to the load amount thus detected. The display 36 displays an instruction for the amount of detergent to be supplied according to the water level determined here, and the user inputs an appropriate amount of detergent into the washing / dewatering tub 5 according to the display.
[0039]
When the substantial washing is started, water is supplied to the set water level determined as described above in the washing and dewatering tub 5, and the washing is executed by rotating the pulsator 7 at a predetermined speed and reversing ( Step S2). When the washing is completed, the water in the washing and dewatering tub 5 is drained, and the washing and dewatering tub 5 and the pulsator 7 are rotated at a high speed to perform intermediate dehydration (step S3). By this intermediate dewatering, detergent water soaked in the laundry is scattered and removed.
[0040]
Next, dehydration rinsing is performed as the first rinsing (step S4). In the dehydration rinsing, water is poured onto the laundry in a shower form from the water inlet 10 while rotating the laundry dehydration tub 5 so that the laundry absorbs clean water and, instead, detergent water permeating the laundry is removed. They are trying to extrude. Then, after sufficient water is contained in the laundry, intermediate dehydration is performed by the process of step S5 similar to step S3, and water soaked into the laundry is scattered. Next, the pool rinsing is performed for the second time, that is, the final rinsing (step S6). That is, water is supplied into the washing / dewatering tub 5 to the set water level, and the pulsator 7 is rotationally driven as in step S2. In addition, at the time of supplying water for the final rinsing, the soft finish agent contained in the finish agent container is put into the washing / dewatering tub 5. When the pool rinsing is completed, the water in the washing and dewatering tub 5 is drained, and the final dehydration is performed by rotating the washing and dewatering tub 5 and the pulsator 7 at a high speed as in the case of intermediate dehydration (step S7). .
[0041]
In addition, the above procedure is a standard one, and depending on the type of laundry, for example, performing a pool rinsing or a water rinsing rinse instead of a dehydration rinsing, or increasing the number of times of dehydration rinsing or pool rinsing, The procedure can be changed appropriately.
[0042]
The features of the washing machine of the present embodiment are the control executed during the period from the water supply at the beginning of the washing operation in step S2 to the beginning of the washing operation, and the control executed in the early stage of the rinsing operation in the final rinsing operation in step S6. Control, more specifically, control relating to driving of the circulation pump 16.
[0043]
First, the control related to the drive of the circulation pump 16 executed during the period from the supply of water at the beginning of the washing process to the beginning of the washing operation will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. FIG. 12 is a timing chart showing an example of the processing operation executed during this period. This period can be divided into a water supply period from the start of water supply until the water level in the washing and dewatering tub 5 reaches a predetermined water level, and a washing operation period after the pulsator 7 starts rotating after reaching the predetermined water level. (See FIG. 12 (f)).
[0044]
5 and 6 are control flowcharts during the water supply period. Among these, the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 is a processing procedure for determining the operation start timing of the circulation pump 16 during the supply of water. In the following description, flags F1 to F6, timers T1 to T6 for time measurement, and a counter for counting the number of operations P appear, all of which are set to 0 by initial setting. I do.
[0045]
When the water supply process is started, first, it is determined whether or not the water level in the washing and dewatering tub 5 has reached a predetermined water level based on the water level detection signal from the water level sensor 33 (step S10). This predetermined water level is a water level that is set slightly lower than the set water level. In the case of the washing machine of the present embodiment, the water level set in the washing and dewatering tub 5 in multiple stages is two times lower than the set water level. The water level is set at a lower level.
[0046]
Normally (that is, except when water is already stored in the outer tub 2 immediately before the start of water supply), since the water level is almost zero at the start of water supply, it is determined that the predetermined water level has not been reached, The water supply valve control flag F0 is set to 1 (step S11). Next, it is determined whether or not the water level is equal to or higher than the reset water level (step S12). The reset water level is the lowest water level among the set water levels provided in a plurality of stages, and is the lowest water level that can be detected by the water level sensor 33, for example. Since the water level has not reached the reset water level at the beginning of the water supply, the process proceeds from step S12 to S14, and the pump intermittent time timer T1 is counted up. The pump intermittent time timer T1 measures the operation time and the operation stop time when the circulation pump 16 is operated intermittently for a short time (about 2 seconds) before the circulation pump 16 is continuously driven. belongs to.
[0047]
Next, it is determined whether or not the pump continuous operation flag F1 is 1 (step S15). Initially, the pump continuous operation flag F1 is 0, so it is determined whether or not the number P of times of pump operation is 5 or more (step S16). The pump operation number P is the number of executions of the operation when the circulation pump 16 is intermittently operated as described above. Initially, the pump operation count P is also 0, so it is next determined whether or not the circulation pump 16 is on (step S18). Since the circulation pump 16 is not in the ON state, it is next determined whether or not the number of pump operations P = 0 (step S22). Since P = 0, T is set to 60 seconds (step S24). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the count of the pump intermittent time timer T1 is equal to or longer than T, that is, whether or not the time is 60 seconds or longer (step S25).
[0048]
In step S31, it is determined whether or not the water supply valve control flag F0 is 1. Since the water supply valve control flag F0 has been set to 1 first (in the step S11), the water supply valve 12 is opened (step S32). As a result, water flows from the water supply pipe 11 into the water inlet 10 and further flows down into the washing / dewatering tub 5 below. When detergent is stored in the detergent container for reserved washing or the like, the detergent is pushed out by this water supply and is put into the washing / dewatering tub 5.
[0049]
After the water supply is started, the process returns to step S10. Therefore, the above processing is repeated until the water level reaches the reset water level or until the time of the pump intermittent time timer T1 reaches 60 seconds. Here, as an example, the description will be continued on the assumption that the time measured by the pump intermittent timer T1 exceeds 60 seconds before the water level reaches the reset water level. When the count of the pump intermittent time timer T1 exceeds 60 seconds, the process proceeds from step S25 to S26, where the pump intermittent time timer T1 is cleared. Then, it is determined whether the circulation pump 16 is on (step S27), and if it is off, the circulation pump 16 is operated (step S28).
[0050]
In this state, the process proceeds in steps S31 → S32 → S10 → S11 → S12 → S14 → S15 → S16 → S18. At this time, since the circulation pump 16 is in the ON state, the process proceeds from step S18 to S19, and it is determined whether or not the water level has reached the reset water level. Here, if the water level has not reached the reset water level, T is set to 2 seconds (step S21), and thereafter, whether or not the time of the pump intermittent time timer T1 is equal to or more than T, that is, 2 seconds or more Is determined (step S25), and if less than T, the process returns to step S31. Therefore, thereafter, the process proceeds in steps S10 → S11 → S12 → S14 → S15 → S16 → S18 → S19, and it is repeatedly determined whether or not the water level has reached the reset water level. If the time of the pump intermittent time timer T1 has elapsed 2 seconds before the water level reaches the reset water level, the process proceeds from step S25 to S26. At this time, since the circulation pump 16 is in the ON state, the process proceeds from step S27 to S29 to stop the circulation pump 16, and thereafter, the number of pump operations P is incremented (step S30).
[0051]
When the process returns to step S31 in this state, the process proceeds in steps S10 → S11 → S12 → S14 → S15 → S16 → S18 → S19. Since the number P of times of pump operation has been incremented and is not 0, T is set to 30 seconds (step S23). That is, only for the first time from the start of water supply, an operation stop period of 60 seconds is provided, and after that, the circulation pump 16 is operated only for 2 seconds, and it is determined whether the water level has reached the reset water level during the operation. Checked. If the reset water level is not reached, a 30-second operation stop period is provided next, and after that, the circulation pump 16 is operated again for 2 seconds again. During the operation, whether the water level has reached the reset water level is determined. It is checked whether it is. As described above, when the circulation pump 16 is operated and its operation is stopped, the number P of times of operation of the pump is sequentially incremented in step S30 as described above.
[0052]
FIG. 13 is a timing chart showing the operation of the intermittent drive of the circulation pump 16 as described above. After the start of water supply, the circulation pump 16 is repeatedly operated for about 2 seconds as shown in FIG. Of course, as described later, if the reset water level is reached during that time, the intermittent driving is not performed at that time.
[0053]
Generally, unless the water supply capacity is extremely low, the water level should reach the reset water level in about 1 to 2 minutes. However, in some cases, it may take considerable time to reach the reset level. In the washing machine of this embodiment, the number of times the circulation pump 16 is intermittently driven for a short time is limited. That is, as described above, each time the driving of the circulation pump 16 is stopped, the number P of times of pump operation is incremented (see FIG. 13D). The process returns from S16 to S31, and the intermittent driving of the circulation pump 16 by the processes of steps S18 to S30 is not executed.
[0054]
Normally, when water supply is performed normally, the water level exceeds the reset water level in about 1 to 2 minutes from the start of water supply. In this case, if it is determined in step S12 that the water level is equal to or higher than the reset water level, the clutch 9 is operated via the load driving unit 35 to connect the washing / dewatering tub 5 and the pulsator 7, and further the inverter driving unit 34 is operated. The motor 8 is driven through the motor. At this time, control is performed so that the washing and dewatering tub 5 and the pulsator 7 are integrally rotated at a rotation speed of about 20 rpm in one direction (step S13).
[0055]
If the water level is equal to or higher than the reset water level when the circulation pump 16 is on as described above, the process proceeds from step S19 to S20, and the pump continuous operation flag F1 is set to 1 (step S20). As described above, once the pump continuous operation flag F1 is set to 1, the process proceeds from step S15 to S17 when the above flow is executed next. Therefore, thereafter, the intermittent drive of the circulation pump 16 by the processing of steps S16 to S30 is not performed, and the circulation pump 16 is continuously operated. With the above control, when the water level exceeds the reset water level, the washing and dewatering tub 5 is driven almost without delay from the time when the water level reaches the reset water level, but the circulating pump 16 shifts from intermittent driving to continuous operation. This can be delayed up to 30 seconds.
[0056]
When the circulation pump 16 is continuously driven, as described above, the water stored in the outer tub 2 is sucked through the suction hose 17, pushed up into the circulating water channel 18, and is discharged from the discharge port 19 through the washing and dewatering tub 5. Spit into the inside. Also, at this time, since the washing and dewatering tub 5 is slowly rotating, water falls on any part of the washing and dewatering tub 5. Therefore, water falls on the detergent irrespective of the position where the detergent is charged, and the detergent flows down below the water surface. Further, the detergent itself is sucked together with the water, and is discharged from the discharge port 19. Therefore, the detergent is sufficiently stirred in the water, so that the dissolution is promoted. Furthermore, since water falls on the whole laundry, water absorption of the laundry is promoted.
[0057]
In this way, the circulation pump 16 is continuously driven, the water supply is continued while the washing and dewatering tub 5 is rotating at a low speed, and when the water level reaches the predetermined water level, the water level reaches the predetermined water level in step S10. And the water supply period ends.
[0058]
At the same time that the water supply period ends, the washing operation period starts. 7 to 11 are control flowcharts during such a washing operation period.
When the washing operation is started, first, the washing time timer T2 is counted up (step S40), and it is determined whether or not the time measured by the timer has exceeded the set washing time (step S41). If the set washing time has not been reached, a pump control process is executed during the washing period (step S42).
[0059]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the pump control during the washing period. In the pump control process during the washing period, first, it is determined whether or not the flag A4 for executing the water flow is 1 (step S80). As will be described in detail later, in this washing machine, motor control is performed so as to generate two different types of water flows, ie, an A water flow and a B water flow. 0. Therefore, it is next determined whether or not the flushing pump end flag F2 is 1 (step S81). Immediately after the start of the washing operation, since the flushing pump end flag F2 is also 0, it is determined whether or not the set water level has been reached (step S82).
[0060]
If the set water level has not yet been reached, it is determined whether or not the pump continuous operation flag F1 is 1 (step S83). If the water level is equal to or higher than the reset water level in the previous step S19, the flag F1 should have been set to 1 in step S20. However, if the water level does not reach the reset water level within the predetermined time as described above, the flag F1 is reset. It remains at 0. In this case, the circulation pump 16 should not be operating because it does not go through step S17. However, if the flag F1 is 0 in step S83, the circulation pump 16 is stopped and the process returns to the original routine. Even if the water level does not reach the reset water level within the predetermined time and the flag F1 remains 0, the water level reaches the set water level in step S82 due to factors such as an increase in water supply capacity during the course of water supply. May be determined to be in use. In that case, the pump continuous operation flag F1 is set to 1 in step S84.
[0061]
In any case, when the pump continuous operation flag F1 is 1, the circulation pump 16 is operated (step S86). Of course, when the process proceeds in steps S82 → S83 → S86, the circulation pump 16 is already operating, so that the operation is only continued, and when the process proceeds in steps S82 → S84 → S86. At this point, the circulation pump 16 is operated only at this time. After that, the washing pump operation time timer T3 is counted up (step S87), and it is determined whether or not the time counted by the timer is 160 seconds or more (step S88). Immediately after the start of the washing operation, the time counted by the timer is naturally less than 160 seconds, so that the routine returns to the original routine.
[0062]
Returning to FIG. 7, after performing the pump control process during the washing period, the water supply valve control flag F0 is set to 1 (step S43). Then, it is determined whether or not the water level has reached the set water level (step S44). If the water level has reached the set water level, the water supply valve control flag F0 is set to 0 (step S45). Conversely, if the set water level has not yet been reached, the water supply valve control flag F0 remains at 1. Next, it is determined whether or not the flushing pump end flag F2 is 1 (step S43). Immediately after the start of the washing operation, the washing-time pump end flag F2 is 0, so that the process proceeds to the washing 40-second process (see FIG. 10) after step S60.
[0063]
In the washing 40 seconds process, first, it is determined whether or not the washing 40 seconds execution flag F5 is 1 (step S60). Immediately after the start of the washing operation, the washing 40-second execution flag F5 is also 0, so it is determined whether or not the time measured by the washing time timer T2 is equal to or longer than 40 seconds (step S62). Until the time of the washing time timer T2 reaches 40 seconds, the process proceeds to the water flow control process (see FIG. 11) after step S70.
[0064]
In the water flow control processing, first, it is determined whether or not the A water flow execution flag F4 is 1 (step S70). As described above, since the A-water-flow execution flag F4 is initially 0, it is determined whether or not the time measured by the washing time timer T2 has reached a predetermined A-water flow execution time (step S71). The first A water flow execution time is determined, for example, 100 seconds after the start of the washing operation. Therefore, immediately after the start of the washing operation, the time measured by the washing time timer T2 has not reached the A water flow execution time, and the motor control based on the B water flow pattern is executed (step S73).
[0065]
In the B water current pattern, the pulsator 7 is rotated left and right in reverse. Since the washing and dewatering tub 5 is rotating at a low speed when water is supplied as described above, first, the connection between the pulsator 7 and the washing and dewatering tub 5 is released by the clutch 9, and then only the pulsator 7 is rotated in a predetermined pattern. To control the motor 8. Then, the process proceeds to step S55, and it is determined whether or not the water supply valve control flag F0 is 1. If the water level has reached the set water level after the start of the washing operation, the water supply valve control flag F0 should have been reset to 0 in step S45 described above. In that case, the process proceeds from step S55 to S57, the water supply valve 12 is closed, and the water supply is temporarily stopped. If the set water level has not yet been reached, the process proceeds from step S55 to S56, and water supply is continued.
[0066]
Normally, immediately after shifting from the water supply period to the washing operation period, the water supply is continued, and the pulsator 7 starts operating with the circulation pump 16 operating. As a result, the laundry in the washing / dewatering tub 5 is agitated and washing is started. However, since water is continuously discharged from the discharge port 19, even if the detergent is not sufficiently dissolved, the detergent is not removed. Is promoted. In addition, when the water supply is performed normally, the water level reaches the set water level for a while after the washing operation is started. Therefore, the water supply valve 12 is closed as described above, the water supply is stopped, and the circulation pump 16 is turned off. Washing by inversion of the pulsator 7 is performed in the operating state.
[0067]
When 40 seconds have elapsed from the start of the washing operation period, it is determined in step S62 that the washing time timer T2 has reached 40 seconds in the above-described processing flow, and it is determined whether the set water level has been reached ( Step S63). When the water supply is stopped first, the water level should be the set water level, but if the laundry has not completely absorbed water at that point, the water level may drop as washing proceeds. Often there. Therefore, if the set water level has not been reached, the water supply valve control flag F0 is set to 1 (step S64). On the other hand, if the water level is equal to or higher than the set water level at this time, the water supply valve control flag F0 is set to 0 (step S65), and the washing 40-second execution flag F5 is set to 1 (step S66). Then, it is determined whether the water supply valve control flag F0 is 1 or not. If F0 is 1, the water supply valve 12 is opened (steps S55 and S56), so that the water level is higher than the set water level in step S63. If it is low, the water supply valve 12 is opened and water supply (supplementary water) is started.
[0068]
After the start of the make-up water, until the water level reaches the set water level, in the washing 40 seconds process, the process proceeds in the order of S60 → S62 → S63 → S64. That is, the process is repeated without executing the water flow control process. Therefore, during this time, the motor control is not performed and the rotation of the pulsator 7 stops. When the water level reaches the set water level, the process proceeds in steps S64 → S65 → S66 → S55 → S57, so that the water supply valve 12 is closed and the water supply is stopped. After the supply water is stopped in this way, and when the above-described supply water is not started, the washing 40-second execution flag F5 is set to 1, so in the subsequent washing 40-second processing, S60 → The process proceeds to S61, and the water flow control process is executed while the water supply valve control flag F0 is maintained at 0.
[0069]
When the washing operation further proceeds and the timer of the washing time timer T2 advances and reaches 100 seconds which is the A water flow execution time, in the water flow control processing, the process proceeds to steps S70 → S71 → S72 → S73, and the A water flow in-operation flag F4 Is set to 1 and the process returns to step S55. Then, in the pump control process during the washing period immediately after that, it is determined in step S80 that the A-water-flow execution flag F4 is 1, the circulating pump 16 is stopped (step S85), and the routine returns to the original routine. At this time, since step S87 is not performed, the count-up of the washing-time pump operating time timer T3 is temporarily stopped.
[0070]
After that, in step S70 of the water flow control process, the A water flow in-operation flag F4 is also determined to be 1, so the A water flow time timer T4 is counted up (step S74), and if the timer T4 measures 30 seconds or longer. It is determined whether or not there is (step S75). Until the time reaches 30 seconds, motor control based on the A water flow pattern is executed (step S78). Therefore, at this point, the flow shifts from the water stream B to the water stream A. The water flow pattern A is for facilitating the vertical replacement of the laundry. First, the clutch 9 connects the washing and dewatering tub 5 to the pulsator, and rotates the washing and dewatering tub 5 in a predetermined direction. Then, the connection between the washing and dewatering tub 5 and the pulsator is released, and the pulsator 7 is rotated in the opposite direction. As a result, the water flows traveling in opposite directions collide with each other to generate a strong water flow in the vertical direction, and the laundry is switched so that the laundry is turned upside down. During such operation, the laundry rises significantly above the water surface. Therefore, when the water is discharged from the discharge port 19, there is a high possibility that the water hits the laundry and jumps greatly and scatters outside the tub. Therefore, as described above, the operation of the circulation pump 16 is stopped at the time of transition to the A water flow pattern, and the discharge of water from the discharge port 19 is stopped. Thereby, large water splashes can be avoided.
[0071]
If the washing operation according to the A water flow pattern continues for 30 seconds, the water flow control process proceeds to steps S70 → S74 → S75 → S76, resets the A water flow execution flag F4 to 0, and clears the A water flow time timer T4 ( Step S77). Therefore, in the pump control process during the washing period immediately after that, the process proceeds to steps S80 → S81 → S82 → S84 (or S83) → S86, the circulation pump 16 is driven again, and the count-up of the washing operation time timer T3 is restarted. (Step S87. Furthermore, the water flow control process immediately thereafter shifts from the A water flow to the B water flow.
[0072]
When the washing operation proceeds and the operation time of the circulation pump 16 after the start of the washing operation reaches 160 seconds (the elapsed time from the start of the washing operation is approximately 190 seconds), in the pump control process during the washing period, the process proceeds from step S88 to S89. To set the flushing pump end flag F2 to 1. Then, since it is determined in step S46 that the flushing pump end flag F2 is 1, it is next determined whether the post-circulation make-up water end flag F3 is 1 (step S47). Since the post-circulation make-up water end flag F3 is 0, a post-circulation end make-up water process consisting of steps S50 to S54 is executed.
[0073]
In the post-circulation make-up water process, first, the post-circulation end make-up water time timer T5 is counted up (step S50), and it is determined whether or not the timer T5 measures 10 seconds or more (step S51). If the time has not reached 10 seconds, the water supply valve control flag F0 is set to 1 (step S55), and then the process returns to step S55. Therefore, the process proceeds from step S55 to S56, the water supply valve 12 is opened, and the second supply water is started. However, since it is not checked whether the water level at that time is higher than the set water level at this time, the water supply is started even if the water level does not decrease.
[0074]
In the pump control process during the washing period immediately after that, the pump end flag F2 at the time of washing is determined to be 1 (“Y” in step S81), and the circulation pump 16 is stopped (step S85). In addition, since the washing 40-second process and the water flow control process are not performed until the make-up water time timer T5 reaches 10 seconds after the end of the circulation, the pulsator 7 is not driven during this time. That is, the second replenishment water is started almost simultaneously with the stop of the drive of the circulation pump 16, and this replenishment water continues for at least 10 seconds. In addition, the driving of the pulsator 7 is stopped during the period of the makeup water.
[0075]
When 10 seconds have elapsed since the start of the second make-up water, in the make-up water processing after the end of circulation, the process proceeds from step S51 to step S52, and it is determined whether or not the water level has reached the set water level. At this time, both the pulsator 7 and the circulation pump 16 are stopped, and there is almost no undulation of water in the washing and dewatering tub 5, so that the water level can be detected very accurately. If the set water level has not been reached, make-up water is continued. If the set water level has been reached, after the circulation is completed, the makeup water end flag F3 is set to 1 (step S53), and the water supply valve control flag F0 is reset to 0 (step S54). Therefore, after that, the process proceeds from step S55 to S57, the water supply valve 12 is closed, and the second supply water stops.
[0076]
When the second replenishing water stops in this way, thereafter, in step S47, it is determined that the post-circulation replenishing water end flag F3 is 1, so that the washing 40 seconds processing and the water flow control are performed again as described above. The process is executed, and the pulsator 7 starts rotating. After that, the circulation pump 16 is not driven again during the washing operation period, and in the water flow control process, every time a predetermined washing time elapses, a transition from the B water flow to the A water flow is performed. The water flow changes such that the water flow shifts to the B water flow after continuing for seconds.
[0077]
By the above-described series of processes, the operation of the circulation pump 16 is started at a point in time after the start of water supply, and the washing / dewatering tub 5 is rotated slowly. The operation of the circulation pump 16 is continued for a while after the washing operation by the rotation drive of the pulsator 7 is started. That is, the operation time of the circulation pump 16 from the start of the washing operation is limited to a predetermined time (160 seconds in this example), but it should be noted here that the predetermined time is, for example, a user operation. It is not affected by the extension of the washing operation time. That is, in this washing machine, if an appropriate operation is performed by the key input unit 31 during the execution of the washing operation, the washing operation can be restarted from the beginning. However, even in such a case, the above-described flushing pump operation time timer T3 is not cleared and counts the operation time from the start of the first washing operation. Thereby, the circulation pump 16 does not operate for a long time after the detergent is sufficiently dissolved, and it is possible to prevent an abnormally large amount of bubbles from being generated.
[0078]
In addition, as described above, the operation of the circulation pump 16 is stopped during execution of the A water flow, except for the purpose of preventing a large splash of water, as well as by temporarily stopping the operation of the circulation pump 16 on the way. It is also effective in preventing the generation of a bubble. Therefore, for such a purpose, the operation of the circulation pump 16 is not stopped only during the execution of the A water flow as in the above embodiment, but is performed at appropriate time intervals during the execution of the B water flow. The operation may be temporarily stopped.
[0079]
Next, control related to the circulation pump 16 performed during the final rinsing step will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. In the final rinsing step, after the water supply ends and the pulsator 7 starts to be driven to rotate, the pump processing in the final rinsing step shown in FIG. 14 is repeatedly executed. First, it is determined whether or not the rinsing-time pump end flag F6 is 1 (step S90). Since the rinsing-time pump end flag F6 is 0 at the beginning of the rinsing operation, the circulating pump 16 is driven (step S91). As a result, water starts to be discharged from the discharge port 19, and dissolution of the finishing agent put into the washing and dewatering tub 5 is promoted. Then, the rinsing-time pump operation time timer T6 is counted up (step S92), and it is determined whether or not the timer T6 measures 20 seconds or more (step S93).
[0080]
Until the time counted by the timer T6 reaches 20 seconds, the process is terminated as it is. When the timer T6 advances and 20 seconds have elapsed, the process proceeds from step S93 to S94, and the rinsing-time pump end flag F6 is set to 1. Therefore, when this flow is executed next, the rinsing-time pump end flag F6 is determined to be 1 in step S90, and the circulation pump 16 is stopped. Therefore, according to this processing, the circulation pump 16 is operated only for 20 seconds from the start of the rinsing operation, and thereafter stopped. In addition, instead of operating the circulation pump 16 during the rinsing operation, the circulation pump 16 may be operated when supplying water for rinsing.
[0081]
Usually, since the finishing agent is a liquid, it is easier to dissolve in water than a powder detergent, and a sufficient dissolution promoting effect can be obtained even if the circulation pump 16 is operated for a short time. Conversely, if the circulation pump 16 is operated for a long time, the finishing agent may be agitated excessively and foaming may be generated, which is not suitable for final rinsing. For this reason, it is appropriate to operate the circulation pump 16 for a relatively short time as in the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the finish agent valve 13 is opened at the time of water supply in the final rinsing step in order to automatically supply the finish agent, but instead of providing the finish agent valve 13, a balance ring at the upper end of the washing and dewatering tub 5 is used. The same effect can be obtained by providing a finishing agent dispenser for automatically introducing a finishing agent by utilizing centrifugal force at the time of dehydration in a part thereof.
[0082]
By the way, in the washing machine of the present embodiment, when water is discharged from the discharge port 19, not only the dissolution of the detergent and the water absorption of the laundry are promoted, but also the washing performance is more directly improved. That is, since the detergent water hits the laundry from above, mechanical pressure is applied and the detergent water easily passes through the laundry. In particular, it is very effective for laundry located near the water surface in the washing / dewatering tub 5.
[0083]
Therefore, at the time of the washing operation, the water level may be lower than the water level at the time of pool rinsing. In the above embodiment, after the set water level is determined based on the load amount detection result, the wash water level is determined within a range of about 50 to 90% of the set water level. Then, the user is prompted to input an amount of detergent corresponding to the washing water level. The set water level at the time of the washing process is used as the washing water level, and the above-described processing is performed. In this case, it is preferable to increase the operation time of the circulation pump 16. On the other hand, at the time of the final rinsing process (or at the time of other reservoir rinsing), the water level is set to the set water level to prevent the detergent water from remaining. According to such a configuration, water can be saved, and the amount of detergent used can be reduced.
[0084]
It should be noted that the above embodiment is merely an example, and it is apparent that changes and modifications can be made as appropriate within the scope of the present invention.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a side sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a view showing a reaching range of water spouted from a discharge port on a bottom surface in a washing and dewatering tub in the washing machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 3 is an electrical configuration diagram of a main part of the washing machine according to the embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of a standard washing process in the washing machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart relating to operation control of a circulation pump in the washing machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart relating to operation control of a circulation pump in the washing machine of the present embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart relating to operation control of a circulation pump in the washing machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart relating to the operation control of the circulation pump in the washing machine of the present embodiment (supplementary water processing after the end of circulation).
FIG. 9 is a flowchart relating to operation control of a circulation pump (a pump control process during a washing period) in the washing machine of the present embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart relating to the operation control (40-second washing process) of the circulation pump in the washing machine of the present embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating operation control (water flow control processing) of a circulation pump in the washing machine according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a timing chart mainly showing the operation of the circulation pump in the washing machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a timing chart mainly showing the operation of the circulation pump in the washing machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart relating to the operation control of the circulation pump during the final rinsing step in the washing machine of the present embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 ... housing
2 ... Outer tank
3, 4 ... hanging bar
5 ... Washing dehydration tub
6 ... Spindle
7 ... Pulsator (stirring blade)
8 ... Motor
9 ... Clutch
10 ... water inlet
11 ... water pipe
12. Water supply valve
13. Finishing agent valve
14 ... Drain pipe
15 ... Drain valve
16 Circulating pump
17… Suction hose
18 Circulating waterway
19 ... Discharge port
30 ... Control unit
31 Key input section
32 ... Lid switch
33… Water level sensor
34 ... Inverter drive unit
35 ... Load drive unit
36 ... Display unit
37 ... Buzzer

Claims (1)

In a washing machine in which a washing and dewatering tub is rotatably disposed inside an outer tub , and a stirring blade is rotatably disposed at an inner bottom portion of the washing and dewatering tub ,
a) water supply means for externally supplying water into the washing and dewatering tub,
b) a water circulating means for sucking water stored at the bottom of the washing and dewatering tub, pushing up to the top of the washing and dewatering tub and discharging into the tub;
c) blade rotation drive means for rotatingly driving the stirring blade,
d) From the middle of the water supply by the water supply means, the water supply is substantially finished, and the water circulation means is used until a predetermined time elapses after the washing operation is started by rotating and driving the stirring blade by the blade rotation drive means. Operation control means for discharging water from the upper part of the washing and dewatering tub toward the inside of the tub,
The operation control means is provided with an operation period and an operation suspension period before the operation of the water circulation means is completed. During the washing operation, a first water flow that rotationally drives only the stirring blade in a predetermined pattern, And the second water flow combining rotation of the agitating blades is switched, and the water circulation means is operated during the execution period of the first water flow, and the operation is performed during the execution period of the second water flow. A washing machine characterized by being temporarily stopped .

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