JP3643772B2 - Drum washing machine - Google Patents

Description

【００４７】
すなわち、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」の各洗い水位に対して、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」の各洗い水位は一段ずつ低く決定するものであり、たゞし、極小水位は変えないものとする。
なお、この場合、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」の各洗い水位は、上述に代えて、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」の各洗い水位の例えば２０〔％〕ずつ低く決定するようにしても良い。これらから、マイクロコンピュータ８６は水位決定手段として機能するようになっている。
【００４８】
２．ドラム回転速度とドラム回転モード
図８は「低発泡洗剤使用コース」の洗い行程におけるドラム９の回転速度と、ドラム９の回転モードとを示しており、この場合、ドラム９の回転速度を、４０〜５０〔ｒｐｍ〕にまで上げてそれを所定時間持続した後、６０〜８０〔ｒｐｍ〕にまで上げ、これを所定時間持続した後、停止させて、更に上述のパターンを繰返す。
【００４９】
この場合、４０〜５０〔ｒｐｍ〕のドラム９の回転速度は、ドラム９内の洗濯物がドラム９の回転により上げられてから落とされることが繰返される速度であって、要するに洗濯物がたたき洗いされる回転速度である。又、６０〜８０〔ｒｐｍ〕のドラム９の回転速度は、ドラム９内の洗濯物がドラム９の回転によりドラム９の胴部周壁にへばりつかされて遠心力により絞られる速度である。従って、この場合、洗濯物のたたき洗いと絞り洗いとが交互に行われることになる。
【００５０】
これに対して、図９は「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」の洗い行程におけるドラム９の回転速度と、ドラム９の回転モードとを示しており、ドラム９の回転速度を、３０〜４０〔ｒｐｍ〕にまで上げてそれを所定時間持続した後、停止させて、そのパターンを繰返す。
【００５１】
この場合、３０〜４０〔ｒｐｍ〕のドラム９の回転速度も、ドラム９内の洗濯物がドラム９の回転により上げられてから落とされることが繰返される速度であって、要するに洗濯物がたたき洗いされる回転速度である。従って、この場合、洗濯物のたたき洗いだけが行われることになり、すなわち、洗い中、終始洗濯物をたたき洗いする回転速度でドラム９を回転させるものである。
又、この場合のドラム９の回転速度は、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」の洗い行程におけるドラム９の回転速度のいずれよりも低い。
【００５２】
なお、この「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」においては、洗い行程の時間を「低発泡洗剤使用コース」のそれより長くすることで、洗浄率を良好に確保するようにする。この洗い行程の時間を長くする例としては、上記洗濯物量の検知結果に応じた洗い行程の各時間に一律５分を追加するか、又は各時間を３０〔％〕程度ずつ延長する、がある。
【００５３】
３．すすぎ回数
両コースのすすぎ行程におけるすすぎの回数は以下のごとくである。
【表２】

【００５４】
すなわち、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」のすすぎ行程におけるすすぎの最多回数は３回であり、これは、マイクロコンピュータ８６がすすぎ行程中に汚れセンサ９０により水槽７内の洗濯水の汚れ（すすぎ度）を検知するその検知結果によって異なるもので、３回までは水槽７内の洗濯水の汚れ（濁り）が少なくなるまで繰返しすすぎを実行するというものであり、あるいは操作パネル３の「コース」選択スイッチ６０により選択されるコースによって異なるもので、そのそれぞれ最多の回数が３回ということである。
そして、それに対し、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」のすすぎ行程におけるすすぎの回数は、それより１回多くする。
【００５５】
４．泡取り運転
「低発泡洗剤使用コース」においては、洗い行程と脱水行程の間には排水弁２１を開放させることによる排水が行われるだけである。
すなわち、洗い−排水−脱水…の順序となる。
【００５６】
これに対し、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」においては、その洗い行程と脱水行程の間の排水中に、それと並行して、給水しながらドラム９を例えば３０〔ｒｐｍ〕以下の回転速度で回転させることにより、流水と洗濯物に与える適度な遠心力とで、ドラム９内及びドラム９と水槽７との間から泡を排出する泡取り運転を実行する。
すなわち、洗い−排水（泡取り）−脱水…の順序となる。
【００５７】
５．必要洗剤量表示
洗い行程において必要とされる洗剤量は、マイクロコンピュータ８６が先の洗濯物量の検知結果から決定するもので、更に、その決定した洗剤量を操作パネル３の表示部７１と表示部６９とに表示させる。この場合、既述のように、表示部７１は表示部６９による表示内容が必要洗剤量の表示であることを知らせるための見出し表示をするものであり、表示部６９は必要洗剤量を数字・絵表示する。
【００５８】
図１０の（ａ）には、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」の「高」水位における表示部６９の表示内容を示しており、「１．０」の数字表示にて計量カップ１杯分の洗剤が必要であることを表示し、それに続くほゞ「ｕ」のカップに似た絵表示にてその単位がカップであることを表示している。
【００５９】
これに対して、図１０の（ｂ）には、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」の「高」水位における表示部６９の表示内容を示しており、「０．８」の数字表示にて計量カップ０．８杯分の洗剤が必要であることを表示し、そして同じく、それに続くほゞ「ｕ」のカップに似た絵表示にてその単位がカップであることを表示している。
なお、これらの表示は「一般洗剤」選択スイッチ６３を操作するごとに切り替わるようになっている。
【００６０】
このように本構成のものでは、洗剤に低発泡洗剤を使用して洗うのに適した 「低発泡洗剤使用コース」と、非低発泡洗剤を使用して洗うのに適した「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」とを有して、それらの選択実行を可能としており、その「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」を選択して洗濯をすることにより、非低発泡洗剤を使用して前述の多くの泡立ちによる弊害の問題を生ずることなく洗濯でき、もって非低発泡洗剤を使用したいユーザーに満足を与えることができる。
【００６１】
この場合、特に、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」は、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」より水位を低くして洗濯物を洗うようにしており、それにより、洗い時の洗濯水量が減ることで、泡の発生を抑えることができる。
又、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」は、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」よりドラム９の回転速度を低くして洗濯物を洗うようにしており、それにより、洗い時の洗濯水の撹拌の頻度が減ることで、泡の発生を抑えることができる。
【００６２】
更に、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」は、洗い後のすすぎを、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」の最多すすぎ回数より回数を多くして実行するようにしており、それにより、洗い時に発生した泡を排出する回数が増えることで、泡の排出を促進することができ、すすぎ率を向上させることができる。
【００６３】
そのほか、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」は、洗い直後に、給水しながらドラム９を回転させることにより泡を排出する泡取り運転を実行するようにしており、それにより、洗い時に発生した泡の速やかな排出を促進することができ、その後の脱水行程における泡の発生を抑えることができる。
加えて、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」は、洗い中、終始洗濯物をたたき洗いする回転速度でドラム９を回転させるようにしており、それにより、洗い時の洗濯水の撹拌の頻度が減ることで、泡の発生を抑えることができる。
【００６４】
そして、洗剤量表示手段である表示部６９による必要洗剤量の表示を、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」と「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」の選択で切り換えるようにしており、それにより、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」と「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」とにそれぞれ合った必要洗剤量を知ることができ、洗剤量を誤って投入してしまうことのないようにできるから、特に「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」で洗剤を多く入れ過ぎることにより泡の発生が過多となってしまうことのないようにできる。
【００６５】
更に、この場合、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」における必要洗剤量の表示は、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」における必要洗剤量の表示より少なく表示をするようにしており、その少なく表示をすることで、洗剤の使用量を必要最小限に抑え、泡の発生を一層抑制できる。
【００６６】
以上に対して、図１１ないし図２３は本発明の第２ないし第７実施例を示すもので、それぞれ、第１実施例と同一の部分には同一の符号を付して説明を省略し、異なる部分についてのみ述べる。
【００６７】
［第２実施例］
図１１に示す第２実施例においては、マイクロコンピュータ８６が、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」又は「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」をスタートした後に、洗濯物量の一次検知をする（ステップＡ１）。この洗濯物量の一次検知は、例えば１５秒の短時間、ドラム９を回転させて行うものであり、その検知結果から、必要洗剤量の決定をし、前記表示部６９に表示させる（ステップＡ２）。
【００６８】
次いで、マイクロコンピュータ８６は、洗濯物量の二次次検知をする（ステップＡ３）。この洗濯物量の二次検知は、上述の一次検知より長く、例えば約３倍の４０秒の時間、ドラム９を回転させて行うものであり、その検知結果から、洗い水位の決定をする（ステップＡ４）。
【００６９】
そして、その後、配水装置４５の弁５０を開放させることにより、水道水を注水ケース４２の第１の水道水供給路（洗剤ケース８０の粉末洗剤貯留部８３、液体洗剤及び漂白剤貯留部８４）を通じて水槽７内に供給する（ステップＡ５）。又、この場合、「ふろ水」コースでは、所定時間後、弁５０に代わり、給水ポンプ３８を作動させて風呂水など水道水以外の水を水槽７内に供給する。
【００７０】
このように、洗濯物量を短時間で一次検知することにより必要洗剤量の表示をし、その後にそれより長い時間をかけて二次検知することにより洗い水位の決定をするものでは、必要洗剤量を速やかに知ることができ、それでいて又、洗い水位の決定を精度良くできるため、洗濯水量を誤らず、泡の発生を抑えることができる。
【００７１】
［第３実施例］
図１２ないし図１４に示す第３実施例においては、操作パネル３隣の洗剤ケース収納部１０１にリードスイッチ１０２を組込み（図１２参照）、他方、洗剤ケース８０にはマグネット１０３を組込んで（図１３参照）、洗剤ケース収納部１０１に洗剤ケース８０を収納しセットしたとき、リードスイッチ１０２にマグネット１０３が近接することによって、リードスイッチ１０２が作動し、洗剤ケース８０のセットを検知するようにしている。
【００７２】
すなわち、それらリードスイッチ１０２とマグネット１０３は、洗剤ケース８０のセットを検知する検知手段として機能するものであり、その検知手段としては、ほかに、洗剤ケース８０をセットしたときに該洗剤ケース８０で押圧されることにより作動するマイクロスイッチや、洗剤ケース８０で光路が遮断されて作動する光スイッチ等が考えられる。
【００７３】
そして、その構成で、マイクロコンピュータ８６は、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」又は「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」をスタートした後に、洗剤ケース８０のセットが検知されない状態（非検知）から検知される状態（検知）に変わったか否かの判断をする（ステップＢ１）。
【００７４】
このとき、洗剤ケース８０のセットが検知されない状態から検知される状態に変わった（ＹＥＳ）と判断されれば、洗剤ケース８０が一旦引き出されて洗剤が収納され、その後に、その洗剤ケース８０が押し込まれてセットされたと判断して良いから、前述のステップＡ５同様の給水（洗剤の投入）を行い（ステップＢ２）、その後、洗いを行う（ステップＢ３）。
【００７５】
これに対して、洗剤ケース８０のセットが検知されない状態から検知される状態に変わっていない（ＮＯ）と判断されれば、次に、洗剤ケース８０のセットが検知されないままであるか否かの判断をする（ステップＢ４）。ここで、洗剤ケース８０のセットが検知されないままである（ＹＥＳ）と判断されれば、運転の進行を中止して、ブザー９３を作動させると共に表示部６９に異常の表示をさせることによる異常報知を行う（ステップＢ５）。これは、そのまま給水をすると、前述の注水ケース４２を経る水が、単独にあるいは洗剤ケース８０に収納された洗剤を伴って、洗剤ケース８０の引き出された洗剤ケース収納部１０１から散出する可能性があるからであって、それを防ぐためである。
【００７６】
更に、上記ステップＢ４で、洗剤ケース８０のセットが検知されないままではない（ＮＯ）と判断されれば、洗剤ケース８０のセットが検知されたままであると判断できるから、この場合には、所定時間経過するのを待って（ステップＢ６）、ステップＢ２（給水）に進む。これは、洗剤の収納された洗剤ケース８０がスタート前からセットされている場合があるからであって、あるいは所定時間経過するのを待つ間に洗剤ケース８０が洗剤を収納してセットし直されることがあるからでもあり、そして、万一、洗剤が収納されていなくても運転が中断されたままになるのを避けるためでもある。
【００７７】
［第４実施例］
図１５に示す第４実施例においては、上記図１４中、二点鎖線で囲ったＫの部分を変更している。すなわち、ステップＢ４で、洗剤ケース８０のセットが検知されないままではない（ＮＯ：洗剤ケース８０のセットが検知されたままである）と判断されたとき、所定時間経過するのを待って（ステップＢ１０１）、ステップＢ５同様の異常報知を行う（ステップＢ１０２）。
【００７８】
その後、洗剤の収納された洗剤ケース８０をセットしたことが確認されたか否かの判断を、例えば「スタート／一時停止」スイッチ５７が操作されたか否かの判断でし（ステップＢ１０３）、確認された（ＹＥＳ）と判断されれば、ステップＢ２（給水）に進む。又、この場合、確認されない（ＮＯ）と判断されれば、更に所定時間経過するのを待って（ステップＢ１０４）、ステップＢ２（給水）に進む。
このようにすることにより、洗剤の収納された洗剤ケース８０が極力セットされた状態で運転を進めることができる。
【００７９】
［第５実施例］
図１６に示す第５実施例においては、「低発泡洗剤使用コース」又は「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」において、マイクロコンピュータ８６が、洗い（ステップＣ１）、排水（ステップＣ２）を実行した後に、配水装置４５の弁５２を開放させることにより、水道水を熱交換器３２に供給し始める（ステップＣ３）。その後、ドラム９を洗い時より高速で回転させることによる脱水を実行し（ステップＣ４）、すすぎを実行する（ステップＣ５）。このすすぎは、洗いと同様の内容で行うものであり、その後に、再び脱水を実行する（ステップＣ６）。
【００８０】
そして、上記すすぎと脱水の組み合わせがＮ回実行されたか否かの判断をし （ステップＣ７）、Ｎ回実行された（ＹＥＳ）と判断されたところで、次にプリヒート脱水を実行するコースであるか否かの判断をする（ステップＣ８）。ここで、プリヒート脱水を実行するコースである（ＹＥＳ）と判断されれば、ヒータ３０を発熱させながら脱水を実行し（ステップＣ９）、その後に乾燥を実行する（ステップＣ１０）。
【００８１】
乾燥は、前記熱交換器３２への給水を続行しつつ、ドラム９を回転させ、且つ送風装置２３の送風羽根２６を回転させると共に、加熱装置２４の温風用ヒータ３０を発熱させる内容で行うもので、これにより、ドラム９が回転される状況で、ドラム９内の空気が、熱交換器３２内を下方から上方に通される。そして、その熱交換器３２内を通された空気は、その後、送風装置２３のケーシング２５内から加熱装置２４のケース２９内に送り込まれて、温風用ヒータ３０により加熱されることにより温風化され、更にその後、ダクト３１を通ってドラム９内に戻される。このドラム９内に戻された空気は、ドラム９内を通る過程で該ドラム９内の洗濯物から湿気を奪い、その後、再び熱交換器３２内を下方から上方に通されるということが繰返され、循環される。
【００８２】
又、このとき、熱交換器３２内では、上述の循環空気が、熱交換器３２内を経る水により冷却されて凝縮され除湿されるものであり、この除湿された空気がドラム９内に戻されることが繰返されることによって、洗濯物の乾燥が行われる。
【００８３】
この後、前記配水装置４５の弁５２を閉塞させることによって、熱交換器３２への給水が終了され（ステップＣ１１）、運転を終了する。
なお、前記ステップＣ８で、プリヒート脱水を実行するコースではない（ＮＯ）と判断されれば、ヒータ３０を発熱させずに脱水を実行し（ステップＣ１２）、その後にステップＣ１１に進む。
【００８４】
このように本構成のものでは、洗濯物を洗い、すすぎ後に乾燥させるための熱交換器３２にすすぎ中、脱水中に給水するものであり、それによって、水槽７内から下部の水出口兼用の空気入口３４を通じて熱交換器３２内に入った泡の排出が同口３４からでき、それと共に熱交換器３２内に溜まったリントなど堆積物の排出もできるので、その後の乾燥時の熱交換（除湿）が効率良くできるようになる。
【００８５】
なお、この場合、熱交換器３２内への給水は、すすぎ中、脱水中のいずれか一方でのみ行うようにしても良い。又、前述のコース別の、水位の設定、ドラム回転速度（行程時間）の設定、ドラム回転モードの設定は、洗い時のみならず、すすぎ時にも行うようにしても良い。更に、「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」における前述の各設定は、その全部が実行されるものであるが、そのうちのいくつか、もしくは一つのみが実行されるものとしても良い。
【００８６】
［第６実施例］
図１７ないし図２１に示す第６実施例においては、熱交換器３２の背部にエアトラップ１１１を設けている。このエアトラップ１１１は、下部で熱交換器３２の内部と連通するものであり、ひいては該熱交換器３２内を介して水槽７内と連通し、更にドラム９内と連通している。又、熱交換器３２には、前述の乾燥用の空気出口３５及び水入口３６の下方に位置して、給水系統の故障等による異常水位上昇時にその水を溢出させる溢水口１１２を形成しており、上記エアトラップ１１１は、その溢水口１１２よりも下方で熱交換器３２の内部と連通するようにしている。
【００８７】
これに対して、外箱１の後側上部には圧力センサ１１３を配設しており、これと上記エアトラップ１１１の上部とをエアチューブ１１４により連通させている。この場合、圧力センサ１１３は、約数百〔Ｐａ〕（参考値：数十〔ｍｍＨ₂Ｏ〕）程度の微圧の検知が可能なもので、前述の水槽７内の貯留水位を検知する水位センサ８８より１０倍ほど感度の高いものであり、その圧力検知信号を前記マイクロコンピュータ８６に入力し、それに基づいて、マイクロコンピュータ８６は以下の制御を行う。
【００８８】
すなわち、図１８に示すように、マイクロコンピュータ８６は、この場合、 「低発泡洗剤使用コース」又は「非低発泡洗剤使用コース」をスタートした後に、圧力センサ１１３の出力を読み込んで、それを基準値Ｐ0 として記憶する（ステップＤ１）。次いで、前述の洗濯物量の検知結果から決定した水位まで水槽７内に給水し、同時にドラム９を低速回転させることによる撹拌を行う（ステップＤ２）。
【００８９】
その後、洗いを開始する（ステップＤ３）。この洗いでは、ドラム９を図１９に矢印Ｘで示す時計回り及び矢印Ｙで示す反時計回りの正逆両方向に回転させるもので、この洗い中、ドラム９が時計回り（矢印Ｘ方向）に回転されたときに、前記圧力センサ１１３の出力を読み込み、それを洗い中測定値Ｐとして記憶する（ステップＤ４）。
【００９０】
ここで、洗いを行った結果、ドラム９内から水槽７内に泡が発生する。この泡は、使用した洗剤の種類の誤り（低発泡洗剤使用コースで非低発泡洗剤を使用してしまった）や、使用した洗剤の量の誤り（低発泡洗剤使用コース及び非低発泡洗剤使用コースでそれぞれ使用した洗剤の種類に誤りはなかったが、量を多く入れてしまった）があると、図２０にＢｕで示すように異常に多く発生し、水槽７内から熱交換器３２下部の水出口兼用の空気入口３４から熱交換器３２内に入って、やがてエアトラップ１１１の部分に達し、該エアトラップ１１１の内部圧力を上昇させる。
【００９１】
特に、ドラム９が図１９に矢印Ｘで示した時計回りに回転されたときには、それに伴って水槽７内の水が熱交換器３２下部の水出口兼用の空気入口３４から熱交換器３２内に入り、該熱交換器３２内の泡を押し上げる。このため、エアトラップ１１１の内部圧力の変化は、上述の現象がない、もしくは少ない、ドラム９が図１９に矢印Ｙで示した反時計回りに回転されたときよりも顕著となる。
上記エアトラップ１１１の内部圧力の変化には、前記圧力センサ１１３がエアチューブ１１４を通じて応動するものであり、しかして、この圧力センサ１１３の出力の読み込みは、ドラム９が時計回り（矢印Ｘ方向）に回転されたときごとに行う。
【００９２】
図２１は、このときの圧力センサ１１３の出力（エアトラップ１１１の内部圧力）の変化の様子を示しており、洗い時間の経過に伴って漸次泡の発生が多くなることにより、圧力センサ１１３の出力が増し、やがて許容値Ｒを越えるようになる。従って、この場合、エアトラップ１１１とエアチューブ１１４及び圧力センサ１１３は、水槽７及びドラム９内の泡の異常発生をそれに伴う圧力の変化により検知する泡検知手段として機能するようになっている。
【００９３】
この後、マイクロコンピュータ８６は、圧力センサ１１３の出力値（洗い中測定値Ｐ）を前述の基準値Ｐ0 から減じてその差ΔＰを出し（ステップＤ５）、次いで、その差ΔＰがしきい値ＫＰより大であるか否か、すなわち、泡が異常発生の判定レベルに達した否かの判断をする（ステップＤ６）。
上記ステップＤ６で、差ΔＰがしきい値ＫＰより大ではない（ＮＯ）と判断されれば、泡の発生は異常に多くはないと判定し（ステップＤ７）、その後、洗いの時間が終了であるか否かの判断をして（ステップＤ８）、洗いの時間が終了ではない（ＮＯ）と判断されるうちは、ステップＤ４に戻る。
【００９４】
それに対し、ステップＤ６で、差ΔＰがしきい値ＫＰより大である（ＹＥＳ）と判断されれば、泡の発生が異常に多いと判定し（ステップＤ９）、次いで、その泡の異常発生の検知回数が複数であるか、この場合、３回目であるか否かの判断をする（ステップＤ１０）。
【００９５】
上記ステップＤ１０で、３回目ではない（ＮＯ）と判断されれば、排水弁２１を例えば１２秒間開放させる（ステップＤ１１）。この排水弁２１の例えば１２秒間の開放は、水槽７及びドラム９内から約２リットルの排水をするものであり、かくして水槽７及びドラム９内の水が減らされる（水槽７及びドラム９内には水が残される）。しかして、ステップＤ１１の後にはステップＤ４に戻る。
【００９６】
一方、、ステップＤ１０で、３回目である（ＹＥＳ）と判断されれば、排水弁２１を開放させたまま洗いを続行し（ステップＤ１２）、ステップＤ８に進む。このとき、排水弁２１は開放させたままであるから、水槽７及びドラム９内の水は全部なくされる（水槽７及びドラム９内には水が残されない）。なお、水槽７及びドラム９内の水が全部なくされても、洗濯物には水が充分にしみており、ドラム９の回転を続けることによる機械力を洗濯物に与え続けることにより、充分に洗浄効果を得ることができる。
【００９７】
そして、ステップＤ８で、洗いの時間が終了である（ＹＥＳ）と判断されれば、その後、泡の異常発生の検知が所定回数、この場合、１回以上あったか否かの判断をし（ステップＤ１３）、１回以上あった（ＹＥＳ）と判断されれば、前述の泡取り運転を実行して（ステップＤ１４）、次行程（ステップＤ１５）へと進み、１回以上なかった（ＮＯ）と判断されれば、泡取り運転を実行せずに次行程（ステップＤ１５）へと進む。
【００９８】
このように、本構成のものでは、ドラム９内の泡の異常発生をそれに伴う圧力の変化により検知する泡検知手段（エアトラップ１１１、エアチューブ１１４、圧力センサ１１３）を設けており、それによって、洗剤の種類や量を誤って投入した場合のドラム９内の泡の異常発生を、それに伴う圧力の変化から検知できて、適切な対処ができる。
【００９９】
特に、本構成のものにおいては、泡の異常発生を検知したときに、ドラム９内の水を減らす排水をするようにしており（ステップＤ１１）、それによって、泡の異常発生の検知以降、洗濯水量が減ることにより、それ以上の泡の発生が抑えられ、異常な泡立ちによる弊害の問題を生ずることなく洗濯ができる。
【０１００】
又、泡の異常発生を複数回検知したときには、ドラム９内の水を全部なくす排水をするようにもしており（ステップＤ１２）、それによって、泡の異常発生の検知がその複数回未満の回数で済まない状況では、洗濯水が全部なくされることにより、それ以上の泡の発生がより確実に抑えられ、もって、異常な泡立ちによる弊害の問題を一層生ずることなく洗濯ができる。
【０１０１】
更に、ドラム９が正逆両方向に回転される状況で、泡の異常発生による圧力の変化が顕著となる方向にドラム９が回転されるときに泡の異常発生を検知するようにしており（ステップＤ４）、それによって、泡の異常発生の検知がより確実にできる。
【０１０２】
このほか、本構成のものにおいては、洗濯機運転のスタート直後の圧力センサ１１３の出力を基準値Ｐ0 とし、その後の洗い中の圧力センサ１１３の出力を洗い中測定値Ｐとして、それらの差から泡の異常発生の有無を判断するようにしており（ステップＤ１、Ｄ４、Ｄ５、Ｄ６）、これによって、圧力センサ１１３の特性のばらつきの影響を受けないようにできる。
【０１０３】
なお、この場合、基準値Ｐ0 の取得時、洗い中測定値ＰがＰA ＞Ｐ≧ＰB の所定範囲内にない場合には、誤検知として基準値Ｐ0 をＰB にする。又、基準値Ｐ0 より洗い中測定値Ｐが低い圧力値であった場合には、基準値を洗い中測定値Ｐに更新する。たゞし、それも、洗い中測定値ＰがＰA 以上であった場合には、異常値として、更新しないようにする。
【０１０４】
更に、泡の異常発生を検知したときには、ドラム９の回転速度を減じるようにしても良いものであり、そうすることにより、泡の異常発生の検知以降、洗濯水の撹拌の頻度が減ることにより、それ以上の泡の発生が抑えられ、異常な泡立ちによる弊害の問題を生ずることなく洗濯ができる。又、この場合にも、洗い行程の時間を長くすることで、洗浄率を良好に確保することができる。
【０１０５】
［第７実施例］
図２２及び図２３に示す第７実施例においては、泡の異常発生の判定レベルを、洗いの経過時間で異ならせるようにしている。詳しくは、投入された洗剤の種類や量の違いによって、発生する泡の密度が異なり、それによって、泡のエアトラップ１１１に到達した位置が同じあっても、エアトラップ１１１内に生じる圧力の変化には違いが出る。図２２はそのことを示しており、泡の密度が高いものほど、早い時間にエアトラップ１１１内に高い圧力変化が生じ、泡の密度が低いものでは、泡が少しずつ長い時間をかけてエアトラップ１１１内に圧力変化を生じさせるため、その圧力変化が小さく遅い。
【０１０６】
これに基づき、泡の異常発生の判定レベル（しきい値ＫＰ）を、図２３に示すように洗いの経過時間で順次異ならせることにより、それぞれの判定が確実にできる。
【０１０７】
このほか、製品の組立て完了後には、エアトラップ１１１とエアチューブ１１４及び圧力センサ１１３が正常に接続されていることを確認する必要があり、その方法として、エアトラップ１１１が存する高さ位置以上に水面が来るように給水をし、そのときに圧力センサ１１３の出力に所定の変化が現れることを確かめる検査をする。そのために、エアトラップ１１１は、熱交換器３２の空気出口３５や水入口３６及び溢水口１１２よりも下方で熱交換器３２の内部と連通するようにする必要があり、これによって、エアトラップ１１１が存する高さ位置以下で、それらの口から水が出ることのないようにしている。
【０１０８】
加えて、上記各実施例の場合、エアトラップ１１１を熱交換器３２に設けたことで、ドラム９内の泡の異常発生を、熱交換器３２内への泡の浸入膨張で検知できる。特に、熱交換器３２内に泡が浸入して膨張すると、その泡は熱交換器３２内に連通した送風装置２３内へ、そして、加熱装置２４内へと浸入することにより、送風羽根２６やヒータ３０の腐食の原因となったり、送風の抵抗となったりし、更に、温風の温度上昇の妨げになったりするなど、乾燥効率の低下につながる。それに対して、上記各実施例の場合には、ドラム９内の泡の異常発生を、熱交換器３２内への泡の浸入膨張で検知できることにより、上述の問題の発生を直接的になくし得る。
【０１０９】
たゞし、エアトラップ１１１は水槽７やベロー１４等に設けても良いものであり、すなわち、泡検知手段はドラム９内の泡の異常発生をそれに伴う圧力の変化により検知し得るものであれば、どこに設けられていても良い。又、この場合、「非発泡洗剤使用コース」は具わっていなくても良い。
そのほか、本発明は上記し且つ図面に示した実施例にのみ限定されるものではなく、要旨を逸脱しない範囲内で適宜変更して実施し得る。
【０１１０】
【発明の効果】
本発明は以上説明したとおりのもので、下記の効果を奏する。
請求項１のドラム式洗濯機によれば、非低発泡洗剤を使用して問題なく洗濯できることにより、非低発泡洗剤を使用したいユーザーに満足を与えることができると共に、非低発泡洗剤を使用したときの洗い時の洗濯水量が減ることで、泡の発生を抑えることができる。
【０１１１】
請求項２のドラム式洗濯機によれば、非低発泡洗剤を使用したときの洗い時の洗濯水の撹拌の頻度が減ることで、泡の発生を抑えることができる。
請求項３のドラム式洗濯機によれば、非低発泡洗剤を使用したときの洗い時に発生した泡を排出する回数が増えることで、泡の排出を促進することができ、すすぎ率を向上させることができる。
【０１１２】
請求項４のドラム式洗濯機によれば、非低発泡洗剤を使用したときの洗い時の洗濯水の撹拌の頻度が減ることで、泡の発生を抑えることができる。
【０１１３】
請求項５のドラム式洗濯機によれば、必要洗剤量を速やかに知ることができ、それでいて又、洗い水位の決定を精度良くできるため、洗濯水量を誤らず、泡の発生を抑えることができる。
【０１１４】
請求項６のドラム式洗濯機によれば、洗濯物を洗い、すすぎ後に乾燥させるための熱交換器に入った泡の排出がすすぎ中又は脱水中にでき、それと共に熱交換器内に溜まったリントなど堆積物の排出もできるので、その後の乾燥時の熱交換（除湿）が効率良くできる。
請求項７のドラム式洗濯機によれば、洗剤の種類や量を誤って投入した場合のドラム内の泡の異常発生を、それに伴う圧力の変化から検知できて、適切な対処ができる。
【０１１６】
請求項８のドラム式洗濯機によれば、泡の密度の違いによって泡の異常発生のレベルが洗いの経過時間で異なるのに対して、そのそれぞれの判定が確実にできる。
請求項９のドラム式洗濯機によれば、泡の異常発生の度合がドラムの回転方向によって異なるものにおいて、その泡の異常発生の検知がより確実にできる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の第１実施例を示す操作パネルの正面図
【図２】ドラム式洗濯機全体の正面図
【図３】ドラム式洗濯機全体の縦断側面図
【図４】ドラム式洗濯機全体の、外箱背板を取外した状態の背面図
【図５】ドラム式洗濯機全体の、外箱天板を取外した状態の平面図
【図６】洗剤ケースの平面図
【図７】電気的構成のブロック図
【図８】低発泡洗剤使用コースのドラム回転速度とドラム回転モードを示す波形図
【図９】非低発泡洗剤使用コースのドラム回転速度とドラム回転モードを示す波形図
【図１０】必要洗剤量表示部分の正面図
【図１１】本発明の第２実施例を示す、作用説明のためのフローチャート
【図１２】本発明の第３実施例を示す、洗剤ケース収納部部分の正面図
【図１３】洗剤ケースの平面図
【図１４】作用説明のためのフローチャート
【図１５】本発明の第４実施例を示す、図１４部分相当図
【図１６】本発明の第５実施例を示す、作用説明のためのフローチャート
【図１７】本発明の第６実施例を示すドラム式洗濯機全体の縦断側面図
【図１８】作用説明のためのフローチャート
【図１９】図４相当縮小図
【図２０】泡の異常発生の様子を示すドラム式洗濯機全体の縮小縦断側面図
【図２１】泡異常発生時の泡検知手段出力の変化を示す図
【図２２】本発明の第７実施例を示す、発生した密度の異なる泡を検知した泡検知手段の出力と洗いの経過時間との関係を示す図
【図２３】泡の異常発生の判定レベルを洗いの経過時間ごとに表した図
【符号の説明】
９はドラム、３２は熱交換器、５２は弁、６３は「一般洗剤」選択スイッチ （洗剤使用コース選択手段）、６９は表示部（洗剤量表示手段）、８６はマイクロコンピュータ（水位決定手段）、１１１はエアトラップ（泡検知手段）、１１３は圧力センサ（泡検知手段）、１１４はエアチューブ（泡検知手段）を示す。[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a drum-type washing machine that accommodates laundry in a drum together with detergent and washing water and performs washing by rotating the drum.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a drum-type washing machine, laundry is stored in a drum together with detergent and washing water, and is washed by rotating the drum. For this reason, the washing water containing the detergent is vigorously stirred at the time of washing, so that if the detergent is a normal non-low foaming detergent, a lot of foam is generated, and this much generated Due to the foam, the laundry is dropped from the top by rotating the drum, and the foam in the drum receives the laundry in a buffering manner. The washing effect cannot be obtained. In addition, when dewatering immediately after washing, bubbles accumulated between the drum and the water tank surrounding the drum hinder the rotation of the drum, the drum rotation speed does not increase, and sufficient dehydration cannot be performed. It was.
[0003]
For this reason, in a drum-type washing machine, use of the low foaming detergent with few foaming was recommended, and it was supposed that the non-low foaming detergent could not be used. The low foaming detergent has low foaming properties depending on the type of surfactant added. It is low foaming and has good foam erasability, so-called foam breakage. It is the level that is most suitable for a speed course for washing without washing and a fully automatic washing machine with water-saving specifications.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
As described above, in conventional drum-type washing machines, the use of a low-foam detergent is recommended, and non-low-foam detergent cannot be used. For example, the stain removal is good, the smell is good, and the price is low. For this reason, users were dissatisfied with non-low foam detergents.
The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and therefore an object of the present invention is to provide a drum-type washing machine that can be washed without problems using a non-low foaming detergent.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the above object, the drum-type washing machine of the present invention firstly stores laundry in a drum together with detergent and washing water and rotates the drum to wash it. A low-foam detergent course suitable for washing using a low-foam detergent in the detergent, and a non-low-foam detergent course suitable for washing using a non-low foam detergent;The non-low foam detergent use course is for washing laundry by lowering the water level than the low foam detergent use course, and these low foam detergent use course and non-low foam detergent use courseIt is possible to select and execute (Invention of Claim 1).
[0006]
  According to this, by selecting the non-low foaming detergent use course and washing, the non-low foaming detergent can be used and washed without problems.The non-low foaming detergent use course is used to wash the laundry at a lower water level than the low foaming detergent use course, and the generation of foam can be suppressed by reducing the amount of washing water during washing.
[0007]
  Secondly, in the washing machine of the present invention, the laundry is stored in the drum together with the detergent and the washing water, and is washed by rotating the drum. A low-foam detergent course suitable for washing and a non-low-foam detergent course suitable for washing using a non-low foam detergent.Non-low foam detergent use courseButWash the laundry at a lower drum speed than the low-foam detergent courseThe low-foam detergent use course and the non-low-foam detergent use course can be selected and executed.(Claims2Invention).
  With this oneHowever, by selecting the non-low foaming detergent use course and washing, the non-low foaming detergent can be used and washed without problems. In addition, the non-low foam detergent use course is to wash the laundry at a lower drum rotation speed than the low foam detergent use course,Generation | occurrence | production of a bubble is suppressed by reducing the frequency of stirring of the washing water at the time of washing.
[0008]
  In these casesThe non-low foam detergent use course isFurthermore,Rinsing after washing is performed more times than the maximum number of rinses in the low foam detergent use course.WhenGood (claims3Invention).
  In this case, since the number of times of discharging the foam generated during washing increases, the discharge of the foam is promoted.
[0009]
  or,The non-low foam detergent use course is to rotate the drum at a rotating speed that knocks and wash the laundry all the time during washing.WhenGood (claims4Invention).
  Even in this case, the occurrence of foam is suppressed by reducing the frequency of stirring of the washing water during washing.
[0011]
  It also has a detergent amount display means for displaying the required detergent amount and a water level determination means for determining the washing water level, and the detergent amount display means displays the necessary detergent amount by first detecting the amount of laundry in a short time. Then, it is also possible to determine the washing water level by the water level determination means by performing secondary detection over a longer period of time thereafter.5Invention).
  In this case, the amount of the necessary detergent can be quickly known, and the determination of the washing water level can be made with high accuracy, so that the amount of washing water is not mistaken and the generation of foam can be suppressed.
[0012]
  It is also possible to provide a heat exchanger for washing the laundry, drying it after rinsing, and supplying water to the heat exchanger during rinsing or dehydration.6Invention).
  With this, the foam that has entered the heat exchanger can be discharged during rinsing or dehydration, and at the same time, deposits such as lint accumulated in the heat exchanger can be discharged, so heat exchange during subsequent drying ( Dehumidification) can be performed efficiently.
[0013]
  The drum type washing machine of the present invention is the first3In addition, the laundry is stored in the drum together with the detergent and the washing water, and is washed by rotating the drum. Means are provided (claims)7Invention).
  According to this, the abnormal occurrence of bubbles in the drum when the type and amount of the detergent are erroneously introduced can be detected from the change in pressure accompanying the abnormality, and appropriate countermeasures can be taken.
[0016]
  in this caseIn addition, the determination level of the abnormal occurrence of bubbles should be different depending on the elapsed time of washing (claims)8Invention).
  In this case, the level of occurrence of bubble abnormality varies depending on the elapsed time of washing due to the difference in the density of bubbles, and each determination can be made reliably.
[0017]
  In the case where the drum is rotated in both forward and reverse directions, it is preferable to detect the occurrence of bubbles when the drum is rotated in the direction in which the pressure change due to the occurrence of bubbles is significant.9Invention).
  In this case, in the case where the degree of occurrence of bubble abnormality varies depending on the rotation direction of the drum, the occurrence of bubble abnormality can be detected more reliably.
[0018]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. First, as shown in FIG. 2, a door 2 is provided at the center and an operation panel 3 is provided at the top of the front surface of the outer box 1 that forms the outer shell of the drum type washing machine. Among these, the door 2 opens and closes the laundry doorway 4 formed in the center part of the front part of the outer box 1, as shown in FIG. A circuit unit 5 is provided, and a control circuit unit 6 is provided below.
[0019]
A water tank 7 is disposed inside the outer box 1. The water tank 7 has a cylindrical shape, and its axial direction is a horizontal axis that is front and rear (right and left in the figure), and is disposed in an upwardly inclined manner, and a pair of left and right (see FIG. 4). It is supported by an elastic support device 8.
Inside the water tank 7, a drum 9 is arranged coaxially with the water tank 7. The drum 9 functions as a shared tank for washing, dehydration and drying, and has a large number of small holes 10 in the entire region of the trunk (only part of which is shown in FIG. 3). The part has a plurality of baffles 11 (only one is shown).
[0020]
Both the water tub 7 and the drum 9 have openings 12 and 13 for putting in and out the laundry on the front surface, and the opening 12 of the water tub 7 is connected to the laundry entrance 4 of the outer box 1 and the bellows 14. Therefore, the opening 13 of the drum 9 faces the opening 12 of the water tank 7. A balance ring 15 is provided around the opening 13 of the drum 9.
[0021]
A motor 16 is disposed on the back surface of the water tank 7 as a driving device that rotationally drives the drum 9. In this case, the motor 16 is an outer rotor type, and the stator 16a is attached to the outer periphery of the bearing housing 17 attached to the central portion of the back portion of the water tank 7, and is located inside the bearing housing 17 and in the central portion of the rotor 16b. The attached rotary shaft 16c is inserted and supported by a bearing 18 so as to be rotatable. The central portion of the back portion of the drum 9 is attached to the front end portion of the rotating shaft 16 c protruding from the bearing housing 17 into the water tank 7.
[0022]
A water reservoir 19 is attached to the lower surface of the water tank 7, a heater 20 for heating the washing water is disposed inside the water reservoir 19, and a drain hose 22 is connected to the rear of the water reservoir 19 via a drain valve 21. Is connected. In this case, the drain valve 21 is an electric type that is opened by the driving force of an electromagnet or a motor.
[0023]
On the other hand, on the upper surface of the water tank 7, a blower device 23 is disposed on the rear side, and a heating device 24 is disposed on the front side. Among these, the blower device 23 is provided with a blower blade 26 inside the casing 25 and a motor 27 that rotationally drives the blower blade 26 provided outside the casing 25, and a belt transmission mechanism 28 between them. It is connected by. On the other hand, the heating device 24 is configured by providing a heater 30 for hot air inside the case 29, and the inlet portion of the case 29 communicates with the outlet portion of the casing 25 of the blower device 23.
[0024]
Furthermore, a duct 31 is disposed on the front surface of the water tank 7. One end of the duct 31 communicates with the outlet of the case 29 of the heating device 24, and the other end passes through the periphery of the opening 12 of the water tank 7 and faces the opening 13 of the drum 9. It is out.
[0025]
As shown in FIG. 4, a heat exchanger 32 is also provided on the back surface of the water tank 7. This heat exchanger 32 is a water-cooled type in which water is poured from the upper part, heat-exchanges the moisture of the air passing through the interior with water, cools, condenses, and dehumidifies. Inside, there are a plurality of walls 33 that form zigzag-shaped passages. The heat exchanger 32 is concentrically curved with respect to the rotating shaft 16c of the motor 16, which is the center of rotation of the drum 9. The heat exchanger 32 is disposed on the left side of the drawing so as to avoid the motor 16. ing.
[0026]
Thus, the heat exchanger 32 has an air inlet 34 that also serves as a water outlet in the lower part, and has an air outlet 35 and a water inlet 36 in the upper part. The air outlet 35 communicates with the inlet portion of the casing 25 of the blower 23.
[0027]
As shown in FIG. 5, a pump base 37 is provided at the left rear corner (upper left in the figure) of the inner upper portion of the outer box 1, and a water supply pump 38 is mounted on the pump base 37. Yes. The water supply pump 38 is supplied with priming water from a priming water supply port 39, sucks water other than tap water such as bath water from a water suction port 40 through a water absorption hose (not shown), and discharges water other than the sucked tap water. The water is discharged from the water port 41.
[0028]
A water injection case 42 is disposed in front of the water supply pump 38 (downward in the figure) and on the left front part (lower left in the figure) of the inner upper part of the outer box 1. Although not shown in detail, the water injection case 42 has first and second tap water supply passages and a supply passage other than tap water, and their outlets are common and are placed in the water tank 7. It communicates from above.
[0029]
Further, a water discharge port 41 of the water supply pump 38 is connected to a supply path other than tap water of the water injection case 42 through a connection hose 43. A priming water supply port 39 of the water supply pump 38 is connected to a first tap water supply path of the water injection case 42 via a connection hose 44.
[0030]
A water distribution device 45 is disposed in a portion adjacent to the right of the water supply pump 38 in the upper part of the outer box 1. The water distribution device 45 distributes tap water, and has a first to third three outlets 47, 48, and a single inlet 46 connected to a tap through a water supply hose (not shown). 49, and valves 50, 51, and 52, which are water supply valves, are provided in the water outlets 47 to 49, respectively. In this case, the valves 50 to 52 are electrically operated similar to the drain valve 21.
[0031]
Thus, the valve 50 is connected to the first tap water supply path of the water injection case 42 via the connection hose 53, and the valve 51 is connected to the second tap water supply of the water injection case 42 via the connection hose 54. The valve 52 is connected to the water inlet 36 of the heat exchanger 32 via a connection hose 55.
[0032]
FIG. 1 shows the configuration of the operation panel 3 in detail. The operation panel 3 has various selection switches 58 to 63 in addition to the “power” switch 56 and the “start / pause” switch 57, and various courses are particularly selected by the “course” selection switch 60. Is selected, and the “general detergent” selection switch 63 selects whether the selected course is to be used as a low foam detergent use course or a non-low foam detergent use course.
[0033]
Here, the selection will be described. If only the “course” selection switch 60 is operated, various courses are selected in the low foam detergent use course, and the “course” selection switch 60 and the “general detergent” selection switch 63 are operated. In this case, various courses are selected in the course using the non-low foaming detergent.
[0034]
In this case, the order of operations may be either the “course” selection switch 60 or the “general detergent” selection switch 63 first. Even after the “course” selection switch 60 and the “general detergent” selection switch 63 are operated, if the “general detergent” selection switch 63 is operated again thereafter, the selection of the non-low foaming detergent use course is cancelled. A low-foam detergent course is selected. Further, if the “general detergent” selection switch 63 is operated from that state, the selection of the low foam detergent use course is canceled and the non-low foam detergent use course is selected. Accordingly, the “general detergent” selection switch 63 functions as a detergent use course selection means for selecting a low foam detergent use course and a non-low foam detergent use course.
[0035]
In addition, the operation panel 3 has various display units 64 to 71, of which the display unit 65 displays the course selected by the above-described “course” selection switch 60, and the display unit 70 uses the low foam detergent use course. And a course selected from a non-low foam detergent use course. In this case, the display unit 70 is a light emitter, for example, an LED, and displays the selection of the non-low foaming detergent use course by light emission and displays the selection of the low foaming detergent use course by quenching.
[0036]
  Further, the display unit 71 displays the necessary detergent amount as a headline, and the display unit 69 displays the necessary amount of detergent, in particular, a number and a picture as described later. Accordingly, the display unit 71 and the display unit 69 function as detergent amount display means. In this case, the display unit 69EachIt also serves to display the remaining time of the seed course, reservation time, set temperature of hot water, and abnormality.
[0037]
In addition, the operation panel 3 includes selection switches 72 to 75 and display units 76 to 79. The selection switches 72 to 75 are for selecting execution of washing, rinsing, dehydration, and drying processes. The display units 76 to 79 display the selection time and the number of selections.
[0038]
In addition, a detergent case 80 is provided on the left side of the operation panel 3 so that it can be taken in and out by, for example, a drawer type. The detergent case 80 has a handle portion 81 for a drawer operation and a lid 82 that normally closes the handle portion 81 on the front surface, and the lid 82 is opened by being pushed by a finger that hangs on the handle portion 81. It has come to be. Further, as shown in FIG. 6, the detergent case 80 includes a powder detergent reservoir 83, a liquid detergent and bleach reservoir 84, and a softener reservoir 85 on the rear side (upper side in the drawing) from the front surface portion. And the powder detergent reservoir 83 and the liquid detergent and bleach reservoir 84 are set in the first tap water supply path, and the second tap water supply path is provided. The softening agent storage part 85 is set.
[0039]
On the other hand, FIG. 7 shows a microcomputer 86, which is included in the control circuit unit 6 and functions as a control means for controlling the overall operation of the drum type washing machine. Various operation signals are input to the microcomputer 86 from an operation input unit 87 including various switches 57 to 63 and 72 to 75 excluding the “power” switch 56 of the operation panel 3. The operation input unit 87 is included in the operation circuit unit 5 and outputs various operation signals corresponding to user operations on the operation panel 3.
[0040]
In addition, the microcomputer 86 is provided with a water level detection signal inputted from a water level sensor 88 which is a water level detection means provided to detect the stored water level in the water tank 7 and to detect the rotation of the motor 16. The rotation sensor 89 receives a rotation detection signal, and further receives a dirt detection signal from a dirt sensor 90 that detects the dirt of the washing water in the water tub 7 to detect drying of the laundry in the drum 9. A dryness detection signal is input from 91.
[0041]
The microcomputer 86 gives a drive control signal to the inverter circuit 92 that drives the motor 16 based on those inputs and a previously stored control program. Here, the motor 16 is of the above-described outer rotor type and is composed of, for example, a DC brushless motor, and the microcomputer 86 controls the rotational speed of the motor 16 via the inverter circuit 92. .
[0042]
In addition, the microcomputer 86 includes a buzzer 93 serving as a notification unit, a display unit 94 including various display units 64 to 71 and 76 to 79 of the operation panel 3, the heater 20 for washing water heating, a drain valve 21, and a blower. A drive control signal is supplied to a drive circuit 95 for driving the motor 27 of the device 26, the heater 30 for hot air, the water supply pump 38, and the valves 50 to 52 of the water distribution device 45.
[0043]
Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described.
As described above, the operation course of the drum type washing machine of the present invention includes the “low foaming detergent use course” and the “non-low foaming detergent use course”, and selection of these can be performed. That is, if the “low foaming detergent use course” is selected as described above and then the “start / pause” switch 57 is operated, the “low foaming detergent use course” is executed and the “non-low foaming use course” is executed. If the “detergent use course” is selected and then the “start / pause” switch 57 is operated, the “non-low foaming detergent use course” is executed.
[0044]
Of these, the “Low Foam Detergent Course” is suitable for washing laundry using a low foam detergent as a detergent, and the “Non-Low Foam Detergent Course” uses a non-low foam detergent as a detergent. It is suitable for washing laundry. In any course, the process is basically executed in the order of washing, dehydration, rinsing, dehydration, and drying.
[0045]
The difference between the “low foaming detergent use course” and the “non-low foaming detergent use course” is described below.
1. Washing water level
The washing water level, that is, the water level in the water tank 7 in the washing process is determined by the detection result of the microcomputer 86 detecting the amount of the laundry stored in the drum 9 before the washing process. The detection is performed by detecting the load amount when the drum 9 containing the laundry is rotated by the motor 16 with a predetermined input based on the number of rotations of the motor 16 and thus the number of rotations of the drum 9. The water levels of both courses determined from the result of detecting the amount of laundry are as follows.
[0046]
[Table 1]

[0047]
In other words, each wash water level in the “Non-low foam detergent use course” is determined one step lower than each wash water level in the “low foam detergent use course”, and the minimum water level is not changed. To do.
In this case, each washing water level of the “non-low foaming detergent use course” may be determined to be, for example, 20% lower than each washing water level of the “low foaming detergent use course”. . From these, the microcomputer 86 functions as a water level determination means.
[0048]
2. Drum rotation speed and drum rotation mode
FIG. 8 shows the rotation speed of the drum 9 and the rotation mode of the drum 9 in the washing process of the “low foaming detergent use course”. In this case, the rotation speed of the drum 9 is increased to 40 to 50 [rpm]. After raising and maintaining it for a predetermined time, it is raised to 60 to 80 [rpm], this is continued for a predetermined time, then stopped, and the above pattern is repeated.
[0049]
In this case, the rotational speed of the drum 9 of 40 to 50 [rpm] is a speed at which the laundry in the drum 9 is repeatedly dropped after being raised by the rotation of the drum 9. Rotation speed. The rotation speed of the drum 9 of 60 to 80 [rpm] is a speed at which the laundry in the drum 9 is stuck to the peripheral wall of the drum 9 by the rotation of the drum 9 and is squeezed by the centrifugal force. Therefore, in this case, the washing and squeezing of the laundry are performed alternately.
[0050]
On the other hand, FIG. 9 shows the rotation speed of the drum 9 and the rotation mode of the drum 9 in the washing process of the “non-low foaming detergent use course”, and the rotation speed of the drum 9 is 30 to 40 [rpm. ] Until it is maintained for a predetermined time, and then stopped and the pattern is repeated.
[0051]
In this case, the rotational speed of the drum 9 of 30 to 40 [rpm] is also a speed at which the laundry in the drum 9 is repeatedly dropped after being lifted by the rotation of the drum 9. Rotation speed. Therefore, in this case, only the washing of the laundry is performed, that is, during the washing, the drum 9 is rotated at a rotational speed at which the laundry is beaten all the time.
In this case, the rotation speed of the drum 9 is lower than any of the rotation speeds of the drum 9 in the washing process of the “low foaming detergent use course”.
[0052]
In this “non-low foaming detergent use course”, the washing process time is set longer than that of the “low foaming detergent use course” to ensure a good cleaning rate. As an example of lengthening the time of the washing process, there is a uniform addition of 5 minutes to each time of the washing process according to the detection result of the amount of laundry, or extending each time by about 30%. .
[0053]
3. Number of rinses
The number of times of rinsing in the rinsing process of both courses is as follows.
[Table 2]

[0054]
That is, the maximum number of times of rinsing in the rinsing process of the “low foaming detergent use course” is three. This is because the microcomputer 86 causes the dirt sensor 90 to clean the washing water in the water tank 7 during the rinsing process (rinse degree) Depending on the detection result, the rinsing is repeated until the washing water in the aquarium 7 becomes less dirty (turbidity) up to three times, or the “course” selection switch on the operation panel 3 It differs depending on the course selected by 60, and the maximum number of times is 3 each.
On the other hand, the number of times of rinsing in the rinsing process of the “non-low foaming detergent use course” is increased by one.
[0055]
4). Defoaming operation
In the “low foaming detergent use course”, drainage is simply performed by opening the drain valve 21 between the washing process and the dehydrating process.
That is, the order is washing-drainage-dehydration.
[0056]
On the other hand, in the “non-low foaming detergent use course”, the drum 9 is rotated at a rotational speed of, for example, 30 [rpm] or less while water is supplied in parallel with the drainage between the washing process and the dehydrating process. Thus, the defoaming operation of discharging the bubbles from the inside of the drum 9 and between the drum 9 and the water tub 7 is executed with running water and an appropriate centrifugal force applied to the laundry.
That is, the order of washing, drainage (foam removal), dehydration, and so on is obtained.
[0057]
5). Required detergent amount display
The amount of detergent required in the washing process is determined by the microcomputer 86 based on the previous detection result of the amount of laundry, and the determined amount of detergent is displayed on the display unit 71 and the display unit 69 of the operation panel 3. Let In this case, as described above, the display unit 71 displays a headline for notifying that the display content of the display unit 69 is a display of the necessary detergent amount. Display a picture.
[0058]
FIG. 10A shows the display contents of the display unit 69 at the “high” water level of the “low foaming detergent use course”, and the detergent for one cup of the measuring cup with the numerical display of “1.0”. Is displayed, followed by a picture display similar to the cup of “u”, indicating that the unit is a cup.
[0059]
On the other hand, FIG. 10B shows the display content of the display unit 69 at the “high” water level of the “non-low foaming detergent use course”, and the measurement is indicated by a numerical display of “0.8”. It indicates that 0.8 cup of detergent is needed, and also shows that the unit is a cup with a picture display similar to the cup of “u” that follows.
These displays are switched every time the “general detergent” selection switch 63 is operated.
[0060]
As described above, in this configuration, “low foam detergent use course” suitable for washing using a low foam detergent as a detergent and “non low foam detergent suitable for washing using a non-low foam detergent”. `` Use course '', and the selection of them is possible, and by selecting the `` non-low foaming detergent use course '' and washing, the above-mentioned many foaming using non-low foaming detergent It is possible to perform washing without causing the problem of adverse effects due to the above, and to satisfy the user who wants to use a non-low foaming detergent.
[0061]
In this case, in particular, the “non-low foam detergent use course” is designed to wash the laundry at a lower water level than the “low foam detergent use course”, thereby reducing the amount of washing water at the time of washing. Generation of bubbles can be suppressed.
In addition, the “non-low foaming detergent use course” is configured to wash the laundry by lowering the rotation speed of the drum 9 than the “low foaming detergent use course”. The generation of bubbles can be suppressed by reducing.
[0062]
Furthermore, the “Non-low foaming detergent use course” is designed to perform rinsing after washing more frequently than the “low foaming detergent use course”. By increasing the number of times of discharging, foam discharge can be promoted and the rinsing rate can be improved.
[0063]
In addition, the “Non-low foaming detergent use course” is designed to perform a foam removal operation by discharging the foam by rotating the drum 9 while supplying water immediately after washing. The rapid discharge can be promoted, and the generation of bubbles in the subsequent dehydration process can be suppressed.
In addition, the “non-low foaming detergent use course” rotates the drum 9 at a rotational speed at which the laundry is beaten and washed throughout the washing, thereby reducing the frequency of washing water agitation during washing. Thus, the generation of bubbles can be suppressed.
[0064]
Then, the display of the necessary amount of detergent on the display unit 69, which is a detergent amount display means, is switched between the selection of the “low foaming detergent use course” and the “non-low foaming detergent use course”. Since it is possible to know the amount of detergent required for each of the "Detergent Use Course" and the "Non-Low Foam Detergent Course", it is possible to prevent accidental injection of the detergent amount. It is possible to prevent excessive generation of bubbles by adding too much detergent in the “use course”.
[0065]
Further, in this case, the display of the required amount of detergent in the “Non-low foaming detergent use course” is displayed less than the display of the required detergent amount in the “non-low foaming detergent use course”, and the display is less. Thus, the amount of detergent used can be minimized and the generation of foam can be further suppressed.
[0066]
11 to 23 show the second to seventh embodiments of the present invention. The same parts as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted. Only the differences are described.
[0067]
[Second Embodiment]
In the second embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the microcomputer 86 first detects the amount of laundry after starting the “low foaming detergent use course” or “non-low foaming detergent use course” (step A1). The primary detection of the amount of laundry is performed, for example, by rotating the drum 9 for a short time of 15 seconds. Based on the detection result, the necessary amount of detergent is determined and displayed on the display unit 69 (step A2). .
[0068]
Next, the microcomputer 86 performs secondary detection of the amount of laundry (step A3). This secondary detection of the amount of laundry is longer than the above-mentioned primary detection, for example, by rotating the drum 9 for about three times 40 seconds, and the washing water level is determined from the detection result (step) A4).
[0069]
And then, by opening the valve 50 of the water distribution device 45, tap water is supplied to the first tap water supply channel of the water injection case 42 (powder detergent storage part 83, liquid detergent and bleach storage part 84 of the detergent case 80). Through the water tank 7 (step A5). In this case, in the “floating water” course, after a predetermined time, instead of the valve 50, the water supply pump 38 is operated to supply water other than tap water such as bath water into the aquarium 7.
[0070]
In this way, if the amount of detergent is displayed by primary detection of the amount of laundry in a short time and then the washing water level is determined by secondary detection over a longer period of time, the amount of detergent required In addition, since it is possible to determine the washing water level with high accuracy, the amount of washing water is not mistaken and the generation of foam can be suppressed.
[0071]
[Third embodiment]
In the third embodiment shown in FIGS. 12 to 14, the reed switch 102 is incorporated in the detergent case storage section 101 adjacent to the operation panel 3 (see FIG. 12), while the magnet 103 is incorporated in the detergent case 80 (see FIG. 12). 13), when the detergent case 80 is stored and set in the detergent case storage unit 101, the reed switch 102 is activated when the magnet 103 comes close to the reed switch 102, and the setting of the detergent case 80 is detected. ing.
[0072]
That is, the reed switch 102 and the magnet 103 function as detection means for detecting the setting of the detergent case 80. As the detection means, when the detergent case 80 is set, the detergent case 80 A microswitch that operates when pressed, an optical switch that operates with the optical path blocked by the detergent case 80, and the like are conceivable.
[0073]
In this configuration, the microcomputer 86 is in a state where the set of the detergent case 80 is not detected (non-detection) after starting the “low foaming detergent use course” or “non-low foaming detergent use course”. It is determined whether or not (detection) has been changed (step B1).
[0074]
At this time, if it is determined that the set of the detergent case 80 is changed from the undetected state to the detected state (YES), the detergent case 80 is once pulled out to store the detergent, and then the detergent case 80 is Since it may be determined that it has been pushed in and set, water supply (determination of detergent) is performed in the same manner as in step A5 described above (step B2), and then washing is performed (step B3).
[0075]
On the other hand, if it is determined that the set of the detergent case 80 has not been changed from the undetected state to the detected state (NO), then whether or not the set of the detergent case 80 remains undetected. Judgment is made (step B4). Here, if it is determined that the set of the detergent case 80 remains undetected (YES), the abnormality is notified by stopping the operation and operating the buzzer 93 and displaying the abnormality on the display unit 69. (Step B5). When water is supplied as it is, the water passing through the water injection case 42 can be scattered from the detergent case storage part 101 from which the detergent case 80 is drawn out alone or with the detergent stored in the detergent case 80. This is to prevent it.
[0076]
Furthermore, if it is determined in step B4 that the set of the detergent case 80 is not detected (NO), it can be determined that the set of the detergent case 80 remains detected. After the passage of time (step B6), the process proceeds to step B2 (water supply). This is because the detergent case 80 containing the detergent may be set before the start, or the detergent case 80 is accommodated and reset while waiting for a predetermined time. This is also to prevent the operation from being interrupted even if the detergent is not stored.
[0077]
[Fourth embodiment]
In the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the portion K surrounded by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 14 is changed. That is, when it is determined in step B4 that the set of detergent case 80 is not detected (NO: the set of detergent case 80 is still detected), the process waits for a predetermined time to elapse (step B101). Then, the abnormality notification similar to Step B5 is performed (Step B102).
[0078]
Thereafter, it is confirmed whether or not it is confirmed that the detergent case 80 containing the detergent is set, for example, whether or not the “start / pause” switch 57 is operated (step B103). If it is determined (YES), the process proceeds to step B2 (water supply). Further, in this case, if it is determined that it is not confirmed (NO), the process waits for a predetermined time to elapse (step B104) and proceeds to step B2 (water supply).
By doing in this way, a driving | running can be advanced in the state in which the detergent case 80 in which the detergent was accommodated was set as much as possible.
[0079]
[Fifth embodiment]
In the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 16, in the “low foaming detergent use course” or “non-low foaming detergent use course”, the microcomputer 86 executes washing (step C1) and draining (step C2). The tap water is started to be supplied to the heat exchanger 32 by opening the valve 52 of the water distribution device 45 (step C3). Thereafter, dewatering is performed by rotating the drum 9 at a higher speed than that during washing (step C4), and rinsing is performed (step C5). This rinsing is performed with the same contents as the washing, and then dehydration is performed again (step C6).
[0080]
Then, it is determined whether or not the above combination of rinsing and dehydration has been performed N times (step C7). If it is determined that N times has been performed (YES), is the course in which preheat dehydration is performed next? It is determined whether or not (step C8). Here, if it is determined that the preheat dehydration course is performed (YES), dehydration is performed while the heater 30 is generating heat (step C9), and then drying is performed (step C10).
[0081]
The drying is performed in such a manner that the drum 9 is rotated while the water supply to the heat exchanger 32 is continued, the blower blades 26 of the blower device 23 are rotated, and the warm air heater 30 of the heating device 24 is heated. Thus, in the situation where the drum 9 is rotated, the air in the drum 9 is passed through the heat exchanger 32 from below to above. The air passed through the heat exchanger 32 is then sent from the casing 25 of the blower 23 into the case 29 of the heating device 24 and heated by the warm air heater 30 to warm the air. After that, it is returned to the drum 9 through the duct 31. The air returned into the drum 9 takes away moisture from the laundry in the drum 9 in the course of passing through the drum 9, and then is repeatedly passed through the heat exchanger 32 from below to above. And circulated.
[0082]
At this time, in the heat exchanger 32, the above-described circulating air is cooled and condensed by water passing through the heat exchanger 32, and the dehumidified air is returned to the drum 9. By repeating this, the laundry is dried.
[0083]
Thereafter, by closing the valve 52 of the water distribution device 45, the water supply to the heat exchanger 32 is finished (step C11), and the operation is finished.
If it is determined in step C8 that it is not a course for performing preheat dehydration (NO), dehydration is performed without causing the heater 30 to generate heat (step C12), and then the process proceeds to step C11.
[0084]
As described above, in this configuration, water is supplied to the heat exchanger 32 for rinsing and rinsing after rinsing and rinsing and dehydration, so that the water outlet 7 is also used as a lower water outlet. Foam that has entered the heat exchanger 32 through the air inlet 34 can be discharged from the same outlet 34, and deposits such as lint accumulated in the heat exchanger 32 can be discharged at the same time, so that heat exchange during subsequent drying ( Dehumidification) can be performed efficiently.
[0085]
In this case, the water supply into the heat exchanger 32 may be performed only during either rinsing or dehydration. Further, the water level setting, drum rotation speed (stroke time) setting, and drum rotation mode setting for each course may be performed not only during washing but also during rinsing. Further, all the above-described settings in the “non-low foaming detergent use course” are executed, but some or only one of them may be executed.
[0086]
[Sixth embodiment]
In the sixth embodiment shown in FIGS. 17 to 21, an air trap 111 is provided on the back of the heat exchanger 32. The air trap 111 communicates with the inside of the heat exchanger 32 at the lower portion, and further communicates with the inside of the water tank 7 through the inside of the heat exchanger 32 and further communicates with the inside of the drum 9. Further, the heat exchanger 32 is formed with an overflow port 112 that is located below the drying air outlet 35 and the water inlet 36 and that overflows the water when an abnormal water level rises due to a failure of the water supply system. The air trap 111 communicates with the inside of the heat exchanger 32 below the overflow port 112.
[0087]
  On the other hand, a pressure sensor 113 is disposed at the upper rear side of the outer box 1 and communicates with the upper portion of the air trap 111 by an air tube 114. In this case, the pressure sensor 113 isAbout several hundred [Pa] (reference value:Tens [mmH₂O])It is possible to detect a slight pressure of about 10 times higher than the water level sensor 88 that detects the stored water level in the water tank 7, and the pressure detection signal is input to the microcomputer 86, Based on this, the microcomputer 86 performs the following control.
[0088]
That is, as shown in FIG. 18, in this case, the microcomputer 86 reads the output of the pressure sensor 113 after starting the “low foaming detergent use course” or “non-low foaming detergent use course”, and uses it as a reference. Stored as the value P0 (step D1). Next, the water tank 7 is supplied with water up to the water level determined from the detection result of the amount of laundry described above, and at the same time, the drum 9 is stirred at a low speed (step D2).
[0089]
Thereafter, washing is started (step D3). In this washing, the drum 9 is rotated in the clockwise and reverse directions indicated by the arrow X in FIG. 19 and the counterclockwise direction indicated by the arrow Y. During this washing, the drum 9 is rotated clockwise (in the arrow X direction). When this is done, the output of the pressure sensor 113 is read and stored as a measured value P during washing (step D4).
[0090]
Here, as a result of washing, bubbles are generated in the water tank 7 from the drum 9. This foam may be due to an error in the type of detergent used (uses a non-low foam detergent in the low foam detergent use course) or an incorrect amount of detergent used (uses a low foam detergent course or non-low foam detergent). If there was no mistake in the type of detergent used in the course, but a large amount was added), an abnormally large amount occurred as indicated by Bu in FIG. It enters into the heat exchanger 32 through the air inlet 34 also serving as a water outlet, and eventually reaches the air trap 111 portion, and the internal pressure of the air trap 111 is increased.
[0091]
In particular, when the drum 9 is rotated in the clockwise direction indicated by an arrow X in FIG. 19, the water in the water tub 7 is accordingly transferred from the air inlet 34 also serving as a water outlet at the lower part of the heat exchanger 32 into the heat exchanger 32. Enter and push up the foam in the heat exchanger 32. For this reason, the change in the internal pressure of the air trap 111 becomes more noticeable than when the drum 9 is rotated counterclockwise as indicated by the arrow Y in FIG.
The pressure sensor 113 responds to the change in the internal pressure of the air trap 111 through the air tube 114. However, when the output of the pressure sensor 113 is read, the drum 9 rotates clockwise (in the direction of the arrow X). Every time it is rotated.
[0092]
FIG. 21 shows a change in the output of the pressure sensor 113 (internal pressure of the air trap 111) at this time. The generation of bubbles gradually increases as the washing time elapses. The output increases and eventually exceeds the allowable value R. Therefore, in this case, the air trap 111, the air tube 114, and the pressure sensor 113 function as a bubble detection means that detects the occurrence of bubbles in the water tank 7 and the drum 9 by a change in pressure associated therewith.
[0093]
Thereafter, the microcomputer 86 subtracts the output value (measured value P during washing) of the pressure sensor 113 from the above-mentioned reference value P0 to obtain the difference ΔP (step D5), and then the difference ΔP becomes the threshold value KP. It is determined whether or not it is larger, that is, whether or not the bubble has reached the determination level of occurrence of abnormality (step D6).
If it is determined in step D6 that the difference ΔP is not greater than the threshold value KP (NO), it is determined that the generation of bubbles is not abnormally large (step D7), and then the washing time is over. It is determined whether or not there is (step D8), and while it is determined that the washing time is not over (NO), the process returns to step D4.
[0094]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step D6 that the difference ΔP is greater than the threshold value KP (YES), it is determined that the occurrence of bubbles is abnormally large (step D9), and then the occurrence of abnormalities in the bubbles is determined. It is determined whether the number of times of detection is plural or not in this case (step D10).
[0095]
If it is determined in step D10 that it is not the third time (NO), the drain valve 21 is opened, for example, for 12 seconds (step D11). The opening of the drain valve 21 for 12 seconds, for example, drains about 2 liters of water from the water tank 7 and the drum 9, thus reducing the water in the water tank 7 and the drum 9 (in the water tank 7 and the drum 9. Will leave water). Thus, after step D11, the process returns to step D4.
[0096]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step D10 that it is the third time (YES), washing is continued with the drain valve 21 opened (step D12), and the process proceeds to step D8. At this time, since the drain valve 21 remains open, all the water in the water tank 7 and the drum 9 is lost (no water is left in the water tank 7 and the drum 9). Even if all the water in the aquarium 7 and the drum 9 is lost, the laundry is sufficiently filled with water, and washing is sufficiently performed by continuously applying mechanical force to the laundry by continuing the rotation of the drum 9. An effect can be obtained.
[0097]
Then, if it is determined in step D8 that the washing time is over (YES), then it is determined whether or not the detection of the bubble abnormality has been detected a predetermined number of times, in this case, one or more times (step D13). ) If it is determined that there has been one or more times (YES), the above-described defoaming operation is executed (step D14), the process proceeds to the next step (step D15), and it is determined that there has not been one or more times (NO). If so, the process proceeds to the next step (step D15) without executing the bubble removal operation.
[0098]
As described above, the present configuration is provided with the bubble detection means (air trap 111, air tube 114, pressure sensor 113) for detecting the abnormal occurrence of the bubbles in the drum 9 by the change in the pressure accompanying the abnormality. The occurrence of bubbles in the drum 9 when the type and amount of the detergent are mistakenly introduced can be detected from the change in pressure accompanying the abnormality, and appropriate measures can be taken.
[0099]
In particular, in this configuration, when the occurrence of foam abnormality is detected, drainage is performed to reduce the water in the drum 9 (step D11). By reducing the amount of water, the generation of further foam is suppressed, and washing can be performed without causing the problem of adverse effects due to abnormal foaming.
[0100]
Further, when the occurrence of bubble abnormality is detected a plurality of times, drainage is performed to eliminate all the water in the drum 9 (step D12), thereby detecting the occurrence of bubble abnormality less than the plurality of times. In a situation where it is not necessary, all the washing water is eliminated, so that the generation of further foam is more reliably suppressed, and thus washing can be performed without causing further problems of abnormal foaming.
[0101]
Further, when the drum 9 is rotated in both forward and reverse directions, when the drum 9 is rotated in the direction in which the pressure change due to the occurrence of the bubble is significant, the occurrence of the bubble is detected (step) D4), thereby making it possible to more reliably detect the occurrence of bubbles.
[0102]
In addition, in this configuration, the output of the pressure sensor 113 immediately after the start of the washing machine operation is set as the reference value P0, and the output of the pressure sensor 113 during the subsequent washing is set as the measured value P during washing, and the difference therebetween The presence / absence of bubble abnormality is determined (steps D1, D4, D5, and D6), so that it is not affected by variations in the characteristics of the pressure sensor 113.
[0103]
In this case, when the reference value P0 is acquired, if the measured value P during washing is not within the predetermined range of PA> P ≧ PB, the reference value P0 is set to PB as a false detection. If the measured value P during washing is lower than the reference value P0, the reference value is updated to the measured value P during washing. However, if the measured value P during washing is greater than or equal to PA, it is not updated as an abnormal value.
[0104]
Further, when the occurrence of foam abnormality is detected, the rotational speed of the drum 9 may be reduced, and by doing so, the frequency of stirring of the washing water is reduced after the detection of foam abnormality. Further generation of foam is suppressed, and washing can be performed without causing the problem of adverse effects due to abnormal foaming. Also in this case, it is possible to secure a good cleaning rate by increasing the time of the washing process.
[0105]
[Seventh embodiment]
In the seventh embodiment shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the determination level of the occurrence of bubble abnormality is made different depending on the elapsed time of washing. Specifically, the density of the generated foam varies depending on the type and amount of the detergent added, and thus the change in pressure generated in the air trap 111 even if the position of the foam reaching the air trap 111 is the same. Makes a difference. FIG. 22 shows that, the higher the bubble density, the higher the pressure change in the air trap 111 at an earlier time, and the lower the bubble density, the longer the bubbles are in the air. Since a pressure change is generated in the trap 111, the pressure change is small and slow.
[0106]
Based on this, the determination level (threshold value KP) of occurrence of bubble abnormality is made different in order according to the elapsed time of washing as shown in FIG.
[0107]
In addition, after the assembly of the product is completed, it is necessary to confirm that the air trap 111, the air tube 114, and the pressure sensor 113 are normally connected. As a method, the height of the air trap 111 is higher than the existing position. Water is supplied so that the water surface comes, and an inspection is performed to confirm that a predetermined change appears in the output of the pressure sensor 113 at that time. For this purpose, the air trap 111 needs to communicate with the inside of the heat exchanger 32 below the air outlet 35, the water inlet 36, and the overflow port 112 of the heat exchanger 32. No more water will come out of their mouths below the height position where there is.
[0108]
In addition, in the case of each of the above embodiments, by providing the air trap 111 in the heat exchanger 32, the occurrence of bubbles in the drum 9 can be detected by the infiltration and expansion of bubbles into the heat exchanger 32. In particular, when bubbles invade into the heat exchanger 32 and expand, the bubbles enter the blower 23 communicating with the heat exchanger 32 and into the heating device 24, so It may cause corrosion of the heater 30, resistance to air blowing, and further hinder the increase in temperature of the hot air, leading to a decrease in drying efficiency. On the other hand, in the case of each of the above embodiments, the occurrence of bubbles in the drum 9 can be detected by the infiltration and expansion of bubbles into the heat exchanger 32, so that the above problem can be eliminated directly. .
[0109]
In addition, the air trap 111 may be provided in the water tank 7, the bellows 14 or the like, that is, the foam detecting means can detect the abnormal occurrence of the foam in the drum 9 by the change in pressure accompanying it. As long as it is installed anywhere. In this case, the “non-foaming detergent use course” may not be provided.
In addition, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and shown in the drawings, and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within a range not departing from the gist.
[0110]
【The invention's effect】
  The present invention is as described above and has the following effects.
  According to the drum type washing machine of the first aspect, the user who wants to use the non-low foaming detergent can be satisfied because the non-low foaming detergent can be washed without problems.WithThe generation of foam can be suppressed by reducing the amount of washing water at the time of washing when using a non-low foaming detergent.
[0111]
  Claim2According to the drum type washing machine, generation of foam can be suppressed by reducing the frequency of agitation of washing water during washing when a non-low foaming detergent is used.
  Claim3According to the drum type washing machine of the present invention, it is possible to promote foam discharge and increase the rinsing rate by increasing the number of times the foam generated at the time of washing when the non-low foam detergent is used is washed. .
[0112]
  Claim4According to the drum type washing machine, NonGeneration | occurrence | production of a foam can be suppressed by reducing the frequency of the stirring of the washing water at the time of washing when using a low foaming detergent.
[0113]
  Claim5According to the drum type washing machineInevitablySince it is possible to know the amount of detergent required promptly and to determine the washing water level with high accuracy, the amount of washing water is not mistaken and the generation of foam can be suppressed.
[0114]
  Claim6According to the drum type washing machine of the present invention, it is possible to discharge the foam which has entered the heat exchanger for washing and drying after rinsing, during rinsing or dehydration, and accumulating lint accumulated in the heat exchanger. Since the product can be discharged, heat exchange (dehumidification) can be efficiently performed during subsequent drying.
  Claim7According to the drum type washing machine, the abnormal occurrence of bubbles in the drum when the type and amount of the detergent are mistakenly introduced can be detected from the change in the pressure accompanying it, and appropriate countermeasures can be taken.
[0116]
  Claim8According to this drum type washing machine, the level of occurrence of foam abnormality varies depending on the difference in foam density, and the respective determinations can be made reliably.
  Claim9According to the drum type washing machine, in the case where the degree of occurrence of foam abnormality varies depending on the rotation direction of the drum, it is possible to more reliably detect the occurrence of foam abnormality.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a front view of an operation panel according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a front view of the entire drum type washing machine.
FIG. 3 is a longitudinal side view of the entire drum type washing machine.
FIG. 4 is a rear view of the entire drum-type washing machine with the outer case back plate removed.
FIG. 5 is a plan view of the entire drum type washing machine with the outer box top plate removed.
[Fig. 6] Plan view of detergent case
FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an electrical configuration.
FIG. 8 is a waveform diagram showing the drum rotation speed and the drum rotation mode of the course using the low foaming detergent.
FIG. 9 is a waveform diagram showing the drum rotation speed and the drum rotation mode of the course using the non-low foaming detergent.
FIG. 10 is a front view of a necessary detergent amount display portion.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a front view of a detergent case storage portion showing a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a plan view of a detergent case.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the operation.
FIG. 15 is a partial equivalent diagram of FIG. 14 showing a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the fifth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 17 is a longitudinal sectional side view of the entire drum type washing machine showing the sixth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the operation.
19 is a reduced view corresponding to FIG.
FIG. 20 is a reduced longitudinal side view of the entire drum-type washing machine showing the occurrence of foam abnormality.
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a change in foam detection means output when a foam abnormality occurs.
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the relationship between the output of the bubble detection means that detects the generated bubbles having different densities and the elapsed time of washing, according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the level of bubble abnormality occurrence for each elapsed time of washing.
[Explanation of symbols]
9 is a drum, 32 is a heat exchanger, 52 is a valve, 63 is a “general detergent” selection switch (detergent use course selection means), 69 is a display section (detergent amount display means), 86 is a microcomputer (water level determination means) 111 denotes an air trap (bubble detection means), 113 denotes a pressure sensor (bubble detection means), and 114 denotes an air tube (bubble detection means).

Claims (9)

A laundry using a low foaming detergent suitable for washing laundry in a drum together with detergent and washing water and washing the laundry by rotating the drum. A non-low foam detergent use course suitable for washing using a non-low foam detergent, the non-low foam detergent use course washing the laundry at a lower water level than the low foam detergent use course A drum-type washing machine characterized in that the low-foam detergent use course and the non-low-foam detergent use course can be selected and executed. A laundry using a low foaming detergent suitable for washing laundry in a drum together with detergent and washing water and washing the laundry by rotating the drum. Non-low foaming detergent use course suitable for washing using non-low foaming detergent, and the non-low foaming detergent use course has a lower drum rotation speed than the low foaming detergent use course, and the laundry be one washing, drum-type washing machine you characterized in that it is possible to select execution of their low foaming detergent usage course and non-low foaming detergent usage course. The drum type washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the non-low foaming detergent use course executes rinsing after washing more times than the maximum number of times of the low foaming detergent use course . The drum type washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the non-low foaming detergent use course rotates the drum at a rotation speed at which the laundry is beaten and washed during washing. It has a detergent amount display means for displaying the required detergent amount and a water level determination means for determining the washing water level, and the detergent amount display means displays the necessary detergent amount by first detecting the amount of laundry in a short time. 3. The drum type washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the washing level is determined by the water level determining means by performing secondary detection over a longer time thereafter . The drum type washing machine according to claim 1 or 2 , further comprising a heat exchanger for washing the laundry and drying it after rinsing, wherein water is supplied to the heat exchanger during rinsing or dehydration . Foam detection means for detecting the occurrence of abnormal foam in the drum by changing the pressure accompanying the laundry stored in the drum together with detergent and washing water and rotating the drum. drum-type washing machine you characterized in that it is provided. 8. The drum type washing machine according to claim 7 , wherein a judgment level of occurrence of foam abnormality is varied depending on an elapsed time of washing. 8. The drum-type laundry according to claim 7, wherein when the drum is rotated in both forward and reverse directions, and when the drum is rotated in a direction in which a pressure change due to the occurrence of foam abnormality becomes significant, the occurrence of foam abnormality is detected. Machine.

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