JP6489738B2 - Washing machine - Google Patents

Description

  The present embodiment relates to a washing machine.

Conventionally, in a washing machine, water is supplied to a set water level in a tub, and after a detergent is charged into the tub by a detergent charging means, a stirring body provided inside the tub is driven to perform a washing process. . This type of washing machine has a water level key for setting the water level (water supply amount) into the tub, and the user can set the water supply amount by operating the water level key.
For example, when the user wants to wash with a large amount of water according to the degree of dirt on the laundry, the user sets a larger amount of water supply by operating the water level key and starts the washing operation. Alternatively, when the user determines that there is not enough water after the start of the washing operation, the user may change the setting to increase the water supply amount during the washing operation.

JP 2007-89775 A

  In the conventional configuration, even if the water supply amount is changed based on the judgment of the user, the intended purpose may not be satisfied. In other words, suppose that the water level is set to a high level in consideration of using a large amount of water to clean the laundry. However, in this case, the laundry may be in a state of swimming in the tub, and the mechanical force of the agitator may not be easily transmitted to the laundry. As a result, the cleaning performance is deteriorated and water is used unnecessarily.

  In view of this, a washing machine is provided that is capable of setting the amount of water supplied by the user and that can obtain the desired washing performance.

The washing machine of the present embodiment includes a washing machine main body having a tub inside, a laundry amount detection means for detecting the amount of laundry, a motor capable of generating a water flow in the tub, and a water supply means for supplying water into the tub. Setting means for setting the water supply amount of the water supply means by the user, and the setting means in comparison with the amount of laundry detected by the laundry amount detection means or the amount of water supply corresponding to the amount of laundry. Based on the determination result of the first determination means and the determination result of the first determination means, at least the water supply amount set by the setting means is larger than the appropriate water amount based on the determination result of the first determination means And a notification means for notifying that when there are few, further, during the water supply operation of the water supply means or temporarily stopped the water supply operation to drive the motor The load acting in the said motor, by the threshold and comparison, as compared with the water quantity in the tank at the time of temporarily stopping the middle or the water supply operation of the water supply operation of the water supply means, the washing A second determination unit configured to determine whether the quantity is large or small , and the notification unit includes, as information on the washing performance based on a determination result of the second determination unit, information on cleaning performance and fabric damage At least one of the information is notified.

The flowchart which shows the flow of the process before the water supply start including the water level determination process in 1st Embodiment. Longitudinal side view showing a part of the washing machine broken Block diagram showing electrical configuration (A) And (b) is a figure which shows an example of the operation panel shown in the state set to the high water level and the low water level. Explanatory drawing of the table for judgment showing appropriate amount of water The enlarged view for demonstrating the water level indicator in 2nd Embodiment Explanatory drawing of the bath ratio table in 3rd Embodiment The figure which shows an example of the profit and loss regarding the washing performance displayed on the explanation area Illustration of evaluation table It is explanatory drawing regarding 4th Embodiment, Comprising: (a) And (b) is a schematic diagram showing the state when there is little quantity of laundry compared with the water level in a tank, and when there are many. Diagram showing the relationship between q-axis current and ease of movement of pulsator 1 equivalent diagram Equivalent to FIG. Explanatory drawing which shows 5th Embodiment and (a) and (b) represents as an example of the display screen at the time of an example of a detergent amount table and a water level change. The flowchart which shows the flow of the process in the water supply process of 6th Embodiment. Flow chart showing the flow of processing in the washing process External perspective view of washing machine of seventh embodiment

<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, a first embodiment applied to a vertical type fully automatic washing machine (hereinafter simply referred to as a washing machine) will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 2, the washing machine body 1 of the washing machine includes a rectangular box-shaped outer box 2 and a top cover 3 provided on the upper surface of the outer box 2. A water tank 4 is elastically suspended in the outer box 2 by a plurality of elastic suspension mechanisms 5 (only one is shown in FIG. 2) including a support shaft 5a and a spring 5b. A rotating tank 6 which is a tank and dewatering tank is rotatably arranged. A number of dewatering holes 6 a are formed in the peripheral wall portion of the rotating tub 6. A balance ring 7 is provided at the upper end of the rotating tub 6. Furthermore, a pulsator 8 serving as a stirring body is rotatably disposed at the inner bottom of the rotary tank 6.

  A mechanism 9 having a tank shaft 9a and a stirring shaft 9b is disposed on the outer bottom of the water tank 4 in the outer box 2. A rotary tank 6 is connected to the tank shaft 9a, and a pulsator 8 is connected to the upper end of the stirring shaft 9b. Moreover, the outer rotor 10a of the washing machine motor 10 which consists of a brushless DC motor is connected with the lower end part of the stirring shaft 9b. In the washing process and the rinsing process, only the pulsator 8 is directly forward / reversely rotated by the motor 10 to generate a water flow in the rotating tank 6. In the dehydration process, the pulsator 8 and the rotating tub 6 are rotated at high speed synchronously, and the laundry in the rotating tub 6 is centrifugally dehydrated.

  A drain port 11 is formed at the bottom of the water tank 4, and a drain hose 12 a is connected to the drain port 11 via a drain valve 12. Further, an air trap 13 for detecting a water level is provided at the drain port 11, and an air tube 13 a is connected to the air trap 13. Although not shown in detail, the washing machine main body 1 has a water supply valve 14 for supplying tap water and a bath water pump 15 for supplying bath water (whichever is used) as water supply means for supplying water into the water tank 4. Are also provided with respective water supply paths (not shown). The water supply valve 14 or the bath water pump 15 supplies tap water or bath water into the water tank 4 through the respective water supply paths by the water supply operation.

  In addition, although illustration is abbreviate | omitted, in the washing machine main body 1, the drying unit for drying the laundry as a drying means is provided. This drying unit is equipped with a blower equipped with a blower fan and a heating device (refer to the fan motor 17a and the heater 17b in FIG. 3), and supplies laundry to the rotating tub 6 by supplying air heated by the heater 17b. dry.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the top cover 3 is provided with a foldable lid 3a. An operation panel 18 is provided on the upper surface of the front portion of the top cover 3, and a control device 19 is disposed on the back side thereof.

  Here, FIG. 4 shows the operation panel 18 in a specific display state to be described later. The operation panel 18 includes a power-on switch 16a and a power-off switch 16b as power switches, and a course switch 20 for setting each operation course of a washing operation, a washing operation to a drying operation, and a drying operation. Have. In addition to the start switch 21 for starting operation, the operation panel 18 includes a reservation switch 22 for setting a reservation for driving and a bath water switch 23 for using bath water.

  Further, the operation panel 18 sets a washing switch 24 for setting a washing process, a rinsing switch 25 for setting a rinsing process, a dehydrating switch 26 for setting a dehydrating process, and a drying process. The drying switch 27 and a display unit 28 for displaying the contents set by the switches 23 to 27 and information related to washing are provided. The display unit 28 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display, and displays time and number of times in each step of washing to drying, setting contents, and information on washing performance described later as a notification unit. And the operation panel 18 has the water level switch 30 for setting a water level, and the water level indicators 31-34 which display a setting water level. For example, LED is used for the indicator in the operation panel 18, and these water level indicators 31-34, the water level switch 30, and the control apparatus 19 are equivalent to the setting means for a user to set water supply amount.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the washing machine. The control device 19 is mainly composed of a microcomputer, and controls the overall operation of the washing operation including the washing to drying steps described above.

  The control device 19 is supplied with power from the power source 35 by the operation of the power-on switch 16a, and the power relay circuit 36 maintains the power supply state by a signal from the control device 19 based on the operation. Further, when the power-off switch 16b is operated, the power relay circuit 36 releases the power supply state by a signal from the control device 19 based on the operation.

  Various operation signals are input to the control device 19 from a switch input unit 37 including the switches 20 to 27 and 30 described above on the operation panel 18. Further, a rotation detection signal, which is a pulse signal, is input from a rotation sensor 38 provided to detect the rotation of the washing machine motor 10 (and consequently the rotation of the rotating tub 6 and the pulsator 8), and the air trap 13 is connected with the air tube 13a. A water level detection signal is input from a water level sensor 39 which is a water level detection means provided to detect the water level in the water tank 4. Further, an opening / closing detection signal from a lid opening / closing sensor 40 that detects opening / closing of the lid 3 a of the top cover 3 is input to the control device 19. The lid opening / closing sensor 40 operates, for example, when the half-foldable lid 3a is opened.

  The nonvolatile memory (EEPROM) 41 stores in advance a control program, threshold values and various information tables described later. The control device 19 performs display control of the display unit 28 based on the operation signal and detection signal described above and the control program, as well as a buzzer (electronic buzzer) 42, a water supply valve 14, a bath water pump 15, a drainage water. Drive control of the valve 12 and the washing machine motor 10 is performed. As will be described in the following description of the operation, the control device 19, the display unit 28, and the buzzer 42 according to the present embodiment correspond to notification means and notify information related to washing performance.

Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to FIG. Here, FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing executed by the control device 19.
When power is supplied from the power supply 35 by operating the power-on switch 16a, the control device 19 causes the power supply relay circuit 36 to maintain the power supply state based on that and starts this processing. On the other hand, the user selects the desired driving course by operating the course switch 20 after storing the laundry in the rotating tub 6. Further, the water level switch 30 can be operated to set a desired water level (water supply amount) (step S1). Thereafter, the operation on the selected course is performed by operating the start switch 21 (step S2).

  In the following description, it is assumed that the normal washing operation (standard course) is selected in step S1. Further, the amount of water supplied in step S1 is, for example, 4 to 12L to 60L by turning on one of the water level indicators 31 to 34 shown in FIG. 4 each time the water level switch 30 is pressed. One of “high”, “medium”, “low”, and “low” water levels corresponding to the values set in stages is selected.

  Next, in step S3, the control device 19 detects the amount of laundry. The amount of laundry is detected by, for example, counting the number of pulse signals from the rotation sensor 38 when the rotating tub 6 is rotated to a predetermined rotational speed, and then stopping the rotation of the rotating tub 6 by stopping the driving of the rotating tub 6. The inertial rotation is carried out by detecting the rotational load based on the count number of the pulse signal when the rotational speed of the rotary tank 6 is lowered to a predetermined rotational speed. As described above, the rotation sensor 38 and the control device 19 function as laundry amount detection means.

  Here, the control device 19 obtains the amount of laundry (cloth amount) based on the count number counted in step S3 (step S4), and assumes that the amount of laundry is 4.0 kg. At this time, the control device 19 collates a determination table (see FIG. 5) indicating the appropriate amount of water associated with the amount of laundry, thereby determining 35 L, which is the appropriate amount of water corresponding to the amount of laundry of 4.0 kg. Read as the amount of water supply. Note that the determination table in FIG. 5 is an example, and it is assumed that the table and the numerical value for obtaining the amount of laundry from the count number are stored in the storage means such as the nonvolatile memory 41.

  Further, the control device 19 compares the water supply amount set by the user in step S1 with the appropriate water amount for determination obtained in step S4 (step S5). In this case, if it is determined that the set water supply amount is larger than the appropriate water amount (YES), the buzzer 42 notifies that fact (step S7). On the other hand, if it is determined that the set water supply amount is less than the appropriate water amount (NO in step S5, YES in step S6), the buzzer 42 notifies that fact (step S8). For this notification, the ringing time of the buzzer 42 may be made different in steps S7 and S8, or another alarm sound may be made, for example, “pip” in step S7 and “pip” in step S8. . Moreover, you may make it alert | report with an audio | voice using a speaker.

  In step S9, the display unit 28 of the operation panel 18 displays the operation time related to washing and the amount of detergent, and information related to the washing performance. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4A, when the high water level is set by the user, the high water level is indicated by the water level indicator 31 and, for example, in the explanation area 28a of the display unit 28, for example, “appropriate water level” "Washing is performed at a higher water level" to notify that the amount of water supplied up to the high water level is greater than the appropriate amount of water. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4 (b), when the low water level is set by the user, the low water level is indicated by the water level indicator 34 and, for example, in the explanation area 28a, washing is performed at a water level lower than the appropriate water level. Display "to notify that the amount of water supplied to the low water level is less than the appropriate amount of water. As shown in FIGS. 4 (a) and 4 (b), the display unit 28 shows the specific contents of the course set in step S1, the time, the number of times, and the set contents for each process of washing, rinsing and dehydration. Is displayed. Further, as will be described later, the description area 28a of the display unit 28 is not limited to the display content shown in FIG.

  Thus, the user can grasp whether the set water supply amount is large or small from the appropriate water amount by the display on the display unit 28, the sound of the buzzer 42, etc., and change the set water amount with the water level switch 30. Can do. Further, as will be described in detail in a later embodiment, the amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of water supply set by the water level switch 30 is displayed on the display unit 28. The user inserts the displayed amount of detergent and closes the lid 3a.

  In step S10, the washing operation in the standard course selected in step S1, that is, for example, water supply, washing, drainage, dehydration, water supply, rinsing, drainage, and dehydration processes are sequentially executed. The water supply into the water tank 4 is not limited to the supply of tap water by the water supply operation of the water supply valve 14 described above, but may be performed by the supply of bath water by driving the bath water pump 15. In addition, the water supply operation is performed up to the set water level that is set or changed as described above based on the water level detection signal of the water level sensor 39.

  As described above, the washing machine of the present embodiment includes the setting unit for the user to set the water supply amount of the water supply unit, and the control device 19 detects the amount of laundry detected by the laundry amount detection unit or the laundry This corresponds to first determination means for determining whether the water supply amount set by the setting means is larger or smaller than the water supply amount according to the quantity (see steps S5 and S6), and the determination by the first determination means. Based on the result, it is configured to notify information on the washing performance.

  According to this, even when the user arbitrarily sets the water supply amount by the setting unit, the water supply amount is determined by the first determination unit, and information on the washing performance is notified. For this reason, the user can grasp the influence of the setting of the water supply amount on the washing performance of the washing machine, and can obtain the desired washing performance by changing the setting.

  That is, conventionally, it is difficult for the user to accurately grasp the influence of the water supply amount set by the user on the washing performance of the washing machine. Therefore, a situation may occur in which “the laundry is washed with a large amount of water due to the degree of dirt on the laundry, but the dirt is not sufficiently removed”. The cause may be that the water level is not at a level that maximizes the washing performance with respect to the amount of laundry put into the washing machine. In other words, when the amount of water supply is increased, the mechanical force of the pulsator 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the laundry, and the contact between the laundry during the agitation is reduced, resulting in the shape of the laundry swimming in the water. Therefore, good cleaning performance cannot be obtained. On the other hand, in this embodiment, since information on the washing performance is made in advance, it is possible to prevent the situation where the laundry swims by changing the setting of the water supply amount, etc. The washing performance can be obtained.

6 to 17 show other embodiments. In the following description, the same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.
Second Embodiment
FIGS. 6A and 6B show water level indicators 51 to 55 and water level indicators 61 to 63 as setting means of the second embodiment. First, each time the water level switch 30 is pressed, the water level indicators 51 to 55 in FIG. 6A sequentially display the LEDs corresponding to, for example, “12L” “25L” “42L” “51L” “62L”. By turning on the light, a specific water supply value set in five stages is shown. In this case, the water level indicators 51 to 55 may be displayed by liquid crystal display in the display unit 28. For example, when the user sets “25L”, the water supply amount is compared with the appropriate water amount (see Steps S5 and S6), and the comparison result is notified (Steps S7 to S9). reference).

  The water level indicators 61 to 63 shown in FIG. 6 (b) are, for example, “low” and “medium” corresponding to the water supply amount set in, for example, three stages of 20L, 40L, and 60L each time the water level switch 30 is pressed. The “high” LEDs are sequentially turned on and off. As described above, the water supply amount in the water level indicators 61 to 63 may be divided into a plurality of stages or set (displayed) to an arbitrary value, or may be displayed on the display unit 28. Even in this case, similarly to the water level indicators 51 to 55, the same effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained by notifying the comparison result with the appropriate water amount.

<Third Embodiment>
There is also a washing machine that performs a washing operation at a low bath ratio, such as a drum-type washing machine that has become the mainstream of washing machines in recent years. However, washing unevenness may occur as a result of insufficient water supply. Therefore, in the washing machine of the third embodiment, for example, the bath ratio of 8 to 14 is set to the condition with the highest cleaning performance, and the appropriate amount of water is defined based on the bath ratio. Here, the bath ratio is the amount (liter) of water used to wash 1 kilogram of laundry, and this third embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In steps S3 and S4 executed after steps S1 and S2, the amount of laundry is detected. At this time, the control device 19 collates the bath ratio table shown in FIG. That is, the control program includes a bath ratio table in which the laundry amount and the water supply amount are associated with each other. For example, when the laundry amount is 4.0 kg, the control device 19 sets the bath ratio to 10 from the bath ratio table. The obtained water amount 40L is acquired as an appropriate water amount (see the arrow in FIG. 7).

  And the control apparatus 19 sets water supply amount so that a bath ratio may be 10, and supplies water to the setting water level used as the said bath ratio (said step S10). However, even when the water supply amount is automatically set in this way, the water supply amount desired by the user may be changed by the operation of the water level switch 30 between the steps S1 to S10. In other words, a setting such as “raise the water level because I want to wash well”, or conversely, a setting such as a consciousness of saving water or “decrease the water level because there is little laundry put in” may be performed by the user's subjectivity. In the former setting, there is a merit that the amount of water supply is increased, so that the rinse is sufficiently performed and the detergent component does not remain in the laundry. However, as described above, the laundry is in the form of swimming in the water. Moreover, there is a possibility that micelles for removing dirt cannot be sufficiently generated due to the lower detergent concentration, which results in not satisfying the user's desire to improve the cleaning performance. On the other hand, in the latter setting, the washing operation can be performed with a small amount of water, but washing unevenness may occur as a result of insufficient water supply.

  Therefore, the control device 19 of the third embodiment determines and notifies the profit and loss of the water supply amount set by the user based on the bath ratio. Specifically, for example, when the user sets the “high” water level in step S1, the control device 19 displays “Operate with a higher water level” (not shown) in the explanation area 28a of the display unit 28. Let When the start switch 21 is operated (step S2), the control device 19 detects the amount of laundry (steps S3 and S4), and based on the amount of laundry, the appropriate amount of water at which the bath ratio is 10 is obtained. To get. Thereby, the comparison / determination of the acquired appropriate water amount and the water supply amount set by the user is performed (steps S5 and S6), and notification is performed in steps S7 to S9 based on the determination result.

  Here, as a notification example in step S9, the contents displayed in the explanation area 28a of the display unit 28 are shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, when the amount of water set by the user is larger than the appropriate amount of water, the explanation area 28a has a merit that “there is a lot of water so that gentle washing operation with less fabric damage can be performed” It also displays the demerit that “power is not easily transmitted to the laundry and the cleaning performance may deteriorate.” On the contrary, if the user's water supply amount is less than the appropriate amount of water, this is combined with the advantage of performing a washing operation with high water-saving performance. ”Is also displayed. On the other hand, when the water supply amount set by the user is the same as the appropriate water amount or when the water level switch 30 is not operated, the merit that “the washing operation is performed at the appropriate water level” is displayed. In this way, as information about the washing performance, the information about the gain and loss of the washing performance and the fabric damage is notified.

  In addition, although omitted in FIG. 8, when the amount of water supply is larger than the appropriate amount of water, it is also possible to display the rinse performance together, such as “the detergent component hardly remains in the laundry and can be rinsed sufficiently”. Good. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the information regarding the washing performance may be represented not only by characters but also by a chart, a symbol, or the like.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the determination result of the water supply amount set by the user can be notified by a symbol “★”. FIG. 9 is an evaluation table corresponding to the bath ratio table of FIG. 7. The closer the ratio of the amount of water supply to the amount of laundry is to 10-14, the greater the number of “★” and the closer to the appropriate amount of water (cleaning performance). On the other hand, when the number of “★” is small, the cleaning performance is inferior. In this way, the cleaning performance may be displayed in the explanation area 28a only by the number of “★”, or all or a part of the table of FIG.

  As described above, the notifying unit according to the third embodiment notifies at least one of the information regarding the cleaning performance, the rinsing performance, and the fabric damage as the information regarding the washing performance. Therefore, even if the user sets the water supply amount, the user can grasp information such as the cleaning performance, the rinsing performance, and the fabric damage about the setting, which can be practically preferable.

Further, the first determination unit of the third embodiment is configured such that the water supply amount set by the setting unit is based on the laundry amount detected by the laundry amount detection unit with a predetermined bath ratio set in advance as a reference. Whether the number is large or small is determined, and the notification unit notifies the information on the cleaning performance based on the determination result of the first determination unit. According to this, it is possible to make a more accurate and appropriate determination on the set water supply amount based on the bath ratio.
<Fourth embodiment>
In 4th Embodiment, in supplying the appropriate amount of water set based on the amount of water supply set by the user or the detected amount of laundry, the water supply operation | movement is divided and performed twice or more. This is because when the water supply is completed by one water supply operation, the water level may be lowered by the penetration of the wash water into the laundry by the subsequent stirring. In particular, since cotton has higher water absorption than chemical fibers, such a tendency becomes remarkable. For this reason, after the first water supply operation (hereinafter referred to as the first water supply) among the water supply operations executed in two or more times, the pulsator 8 is used to stir the laundry with the washing water, and then the water supply is performed again. Restart the water level to the target water level to reduce the level of dispersion.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 10 (a), when water is supplied to the water tank 4 to some extent and the water supply operation is interrupted, it may float when the laundry is relatively small. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10B, even when the water level is the same, when the laundry is relatively large, the pulsator 8 is brought into contact with the laundry without floating. Here, the control device 19 determines the substantial relationship between the water level in the aquarium 4 and the laundry by detecting the current flowing through the washing machine motor 10 based on the output signal of the current sensor (not shown). To do. The detected current is a q-axis current value corresponding to the torque component, and can be obtained in detail by a known configuration disclosed in JP-A-2002-360970, JP-A-2007-50114, and the like. Is omitted.

  Here, FIG. 11 shows the relationship between the q-axis current and the ease of movement of the pulsator 8 when the washing machine motor 10 is energized (during constant speed operation). In the q-axis current, the necessary rotational force is determined by the load, and when the value Iq is approximately equal to an appropriate value, that is, a reference current, the amount of laundry is appropriate for the amount of water supply. On the other hand, when the q-axis current is smaller than the reference current, the pulsator 8 is easy to move because the amount of laundry is smaller than the amount of water supplied (see FIG. 10A), and conversely the q-axis current is larger than the reference current. In this case, since the amount of laundry is larger than the amount of water (see FIG. 10B), the pulsator 8 is difficult to move.

  From the relationship as described above, stirring is performed by the pulsator 8 for a predetermined time after the completion of the first water supply, and the relationship between the amount of laundry and the amount of water supply is determined from the q-axis current at that time. Here, when it is determined that the amount of laundry is small or large with respect to the amount of water supply, the fact is notified. At the same time, the control device 19 accepts a change in the setting of the water supply amount, and when the user changes the setting, the washing operation is performed with the changed water supply amount as the target water level. This series of flows will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In steps S11 to S17 in FIG. 12, the same processing as that in steps S1 to S10 in FIG. 1 is executed. Therefore, in steps S15 and S16, steps S5 to S9 are executed.
And the control apparatus 19 starts the washing operation in a standard course by step S17, and opens the water supply valve 14 and supplies water in the water tank 4 by step S18. In this water supply, the control device 19 determines whether or not the water level in the water tank 4 has reached the first water level (a predetermined water level lower than the set water level) based on the water level detection signal of the water level sensor 39. (Step S19). Here, when the water level in the water tank 4 reaches the first water level (YES), the control device 19 closes the water supply valve 14 and drives the washing machine motor 10 to start stirring by the pulsator 8 (step S20, S21).

  At this time, the control device 19 calculates, for example, an average value of the q-axis current (hereinafter referred to as a q-axis current value) for the four cycles of normal rotation, pause, reverse rotation, and pause of the pulsator 8 as one cycle. To do. Then, the calculated q-axis current value is compared with predetermined threshold values T1 and T2 (steps S22 and S23). The threshold values T1 and T2 in this case are acquired from a threshold table set in advance in association with the laundry amount, and the control device 19 sets the corresponding threshold values T1 and T1 for the laundry amount detected in step S14. T2 is compared with the q-axis current value.

  Here, when the control device 19 determines that the q-axis current value is larger than the threshold value T1 (YES in step S22), the water level is low with respect to the amount of laundry, and the pulsator 8 is difficult to rotate in contact with the laundry. It is in a state. On the other hand, when the q-axis current value is smaller than threshold value T2 (YES in step S23), the water level is high with respect to the amount of laundry, and the laundry is floating, so that pulsator 8 is easy to turn.

  Therefore, the control device 19 updates the display of the explanation area 28a of the display unit 28 in step S24. For example, as shown in FIG. 13 (a), “water supply” is displayed (may be displayed from step S17), and if “the amount of water is small relative to the amount of laundry”, this is indicated. Is displayed. Also, in this case, “The mechanical force is easily transmitted to the laundry, so it works stubbornly.” And at the same time, “We are concerned about fabric damage. Not recommended for laundering fashionable clothes.” Display and notify the profit and loss of the washing operation in the setting. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 13B, when “the amount of water is large relative to the amount of laundry”, a message to that effect is displayed, and “the cloth can be washed gently without being damaged,” or “the mechanical force is washing. It is difficult to communicate with the object, and the cleaning performance will deteriorate. "

  Upon receiving such notification, the user can change the setting of the water supply amount by operating the water level switch 30. This change is accepted by the control device 19 until the water supply operation is restarted (second water supply) by opening the water supply valve 14 in step S28. During this acceptance (for example, for 1 minute), stirring by the pulsator 8 is performed at the first water level. Here, if there is a change in the water supply setting (YES in step S25), the changed water supply amount is set as the target water level (step S26), and the second water supply is performed (step S28). If there is no change in the water supply setting (NO in step S25), water is supplied to the target water level by the second water supply without changing the target water level (step S28).

  In step S27, the change in step S26 is not only represented by the water level indicators 31 to 34, but the changed water supply amount and the appropriate water level are compared, and the comparison result, the profit / loss based on the comparison result, and the like. Information on the washing performance of the user may be displayed in the explanation area 28a. In addition, the calculation related to the q-axis current value is performed after the water supply operation is temporarily stopped as described above, but may be performed during the water supply operation regardless of whether or not the water supply operation is temporarily stopped.

  In this 4th Embodiment demonstrated above, the control apparatus 19 stops the water supply operation in the middle of the water supply operation | movement of a water supply means, or stops the water supply operation | movement, and when the washing machine motor 10 is driven, the load which acts on the said motor 10 is applied. The second determining means for determining by comparison with the threshold values T1 and T2 is configured, and the notifying means notifies information on the washing performance based on the determination result of the second determining means (see step S24 and the like). According to this, since the load acting on the motor 10 through the water supply operation is compared with the threshold value, more accurate determination in consideration of the substantial water level in the water tank 4 or the water absorption of cotton or chemical fiber. It can be performed. Moreover, it can guide | invade so that a user can set an appropriate water level by alerting | reporting based on a determination result.

<Fifth Embodiment>
In the nonvolatile memory 41, as shown in FIG. 14 (a), a detergent amount table in which a water supply amount and a detergent amount are associated with each other is stored in advance. In the detergent amount table, for example, specific values of various detergents including liquid detergents such as Attack (registered trademark, manufactured by Kao Corporation), which is a powder detergent, for each specific water supply value such as 10L, 15L, 20L,. Each amount is specified.

  In step S9 and the like, the control device 19 collates the detergent amount table based on the water supply amount set by the user, and displays the corresponding amount of each detergent along with the type of detergent (product name) on the operation panel 18. Displayed on the unit 28. In this case, the displayed detergent amount may be represented as a list for each type of commercially available detergent, or may be a part of a typical powder detergent and liquid detergent. In addition to the display of [g] and [mL] shown in FIG. 14A, for example, a detergent cup used for the detergent or a condition such as “1.0 cup” or “0.8 cap” corresponding to the cap. In addition, a display that is intuitively understandable to the user may be performed.

  When the water supply amount is changed during the process as in step S25, there is a possibility that the cleaning performance may be lowered due to the corresponding decrease in the detergent concentration. Therefore, in response to the increase in the amount of water, a display prompting the addition of the detergent is performed. For example, as shown to Fig.14 (a), when the water supply amount is changed from 40L to 60L, since the difference is + 20L, the detergent amount for 20L is displayed. Here, FIG. 14B shows the amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of water supply of 20 L to be added at this time. As described above, the display unit 28 may display the detergent amounts of various detergents together with the water supply amount as a chart.

  As described above, the water supply means is configured to be able to change the setting of the water supply amount by the setting means in the middle of the washing operation, and when the notification means has changed the setting of the water supply amount, Information on the amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of water supply is reported. According to this, even if the user changes the water supply amount in the middle, since information on the amount of detergent is notified correspondingly, the washing operation can be performed at an appropriate detergent concentration, and a sufficient cleaning effect is obtained. can get.

<Sixth Embodiment>
FIG. 15 is a flowchart in the sixth embodiment, and shows a flow of processing in step S10 and subsequent steps executed by the control device 19, that is, processing in the water supply process.

  The control device 19 opens the water supply valve 14 and supplies water into the water tank 4 (step S30). Here, if the water level switch 30 is not operated (NO in step S31, YES in step S32) until the water supply amount set in step S1 is supplied (that is, until the target water level is reached), the water supply The valve 14 is closed and the process proceeds to the washing process as it is (steps S33 and S34).

  On the other hand, if the water supply amount is changed by operating the water level switch 30 until the target water level is reached (NO in step S32) (YES in step S31), the target water level is updated (step S35). ). At this time, when it is determined that the updated target water level is higher than the pre-updated water level and the water supply amount increases (YES in step S36), control device 19 sets a detergent addition determination flag (step S37). . Thereafter, when the updated target water level is reached (YES in step S38), water supply valve 14 is closed (step S39). Next, when it is determined that the addition of a detergent is not required based on the set state of the flag (NO in step S40), the control device 19 proceeds to the washing process (step S34).

  On the other hand, when control device 19 determines that it is necessary to add a detergent based on the set state of the flag (YES in step S40), the amount of detergent to be added is displayed together with the type of detergent on display 28. (Step S41). Here, when the opening / closing detection signal from the lid opening / closing sensor 40 detects the opening / closing of the lid 3a (YES in step S42), the control device 19 determines that the detergent has been added and updates the washing time. This is performed (step S44). The data related to the update time is included in the control program in advance, and is updated to the operation time corresponding to the changed water supply amount. On the other hand, even when opening / closing of the lid 3a is not detected (NO in step S42), the time from when the detergent amount is displayed in step S41 is measured by a timer, and it is determined whether one minute has passed ( Step S43). If opening / closing of the lid 3a is not detected even after one minute has elapsed (NO in step S42, YES in step S43), the washing time is updated (step S44), and the process proceeds to the washing step ( Step S34). In this manner, the washing time is automatically updated, and the washing time display (see FIG. 4A, etc.) on the display unit 28 is also updated.

Here, FIG. 16 shows the flow of processing in the washing step.
When there is no operation of the water level switch 30 in the washing process, the control device 19 continues the washing process as it is (steps S50 and S51). In contrast, when there is an operation on water level switch 30 (YES in step S50), control device 19 updates the target water level (step S52). At this time, when the control device 19 determines that the water supply amount is increased by updating the target water level (YES in step S53), the control device 19 opens the closed water supply valve 14 and sets the detergent addition determination flag. (Steps S54 and S55). When the updated target water level is reached (YES in step S56), water supply valve 14 is closed (step S57). Next, when it is determined that the addition of the detergent is not necessary based on the set state of the flag (NO in step S58), the control device 19 continues the washing process as it is (step S51).

  On the other hand, when control device 19 determines that it is necessary to add a detergent based on the set state of the flag (YES in step S58), the amount of detergent to be added is displayed together with the type of detergent on display 28. (Step S59). Here, when the opening / closing of lid 3a is detected by lid opening / closing sensor 40 (YES in step S60), control device 19 determines that detergent has been added and updates the washing time (step S62).

  The update time at this time is, for example, the time from the start of the washing process until the water level after the change is reached or until it is determined that the detergent has been added. As a specific example, when the changed water level is reached 3 minutes after the start of the washing process, the time of the washing process is extended for 3 minutes. In the washing process, it is desirable to perform the washing operation at a water level that satisfies the purpose of the change and the user's request. Therefore, when a detergent amount corresponding to the changed water level is newly introduced, the washing time may be increased accordingly. However, if the water level is changed 10 minutes after the start of the washing process, further washing for 10 minutes is likely to damage the laundry in addition to prolonging the entire washing process time. Therefore, for example, when the water level is changed after the washing process is performed for 5 minutes or more, the washing process may be extended by 2.5 minutes, which is half of 5 minutes. That is, the time of the washing process may be increased to such an extent that the utility obtained by the user changing the water level can be obtained. In addition, if the opening and closing of the lid 3a is not detected even after one minute has elapsed (NO in step S60, YES in step S61), addition of detergent is started with the display of the detergent amount in step S59. The washing time is updated assuming that there is no (step S62), and the washing process is continued (step S51).

  As described above, when the control device 19 of the sixth embodiment detects a change in the amount of detergent supplied to the water tank 4 or a change in the water supply setting, the water supply amount after changing the washing time in the washing operation It is comprised as a change means to change to the time according to. According to this, even if the user changes the water supply amount during the washing operation, the washing time is automatically changed accordingly, so that the purpose and request of the water supply amount by the user can be satisfied without taking time and effort. The washing operation can be performed under the above-mentioned conditions, and generally the desired washing performance can be obtained.

  As shown in step S35 of FIG. 15 or step S52 of FIG. 16, when the water level switch 30 is operated after the start of water supply or after the start of washing, not only the target water level is updated, but also as in step S27. Further, based on the comparison result between the updated water supply amount and the appropriate water level, information on the washing performance such as the profit and loss may be notified.

<Seventh embodiment>
As shown in FIG. 17, in the seventh embodiment, an application example to the drum type washing machine 70 will be outlined. The washing machine main body 71 of the drum type washing machine 70 includes a substantially rectangular box-shaped outer box 72. Although not shown, a water tub is elastically suspended inside the outer box 72 via an elastic support mechanism (not shown), and a rotating tub serving as a washing tub and a dewatering tub is rotatably disposed inside the water tub. ing. Although not shown, a washing machine motor including a brushless DC motor is disposed inside the outer box 72 to rotate the rotating tub. In the washing process and the rinsing process, the motor is rotated in the forward and reverse directions by the motor, and in the dehydration process, the laundry in the rotating tub is centrifugally dehydrated by being rotated at a high speed.

  A control device (not shown) of the drum-type washing machine 70 is configured as laundry amount detection means that controls the whole and detects the amount of laundry in the rotating tub. Although not shown, water supply means is disposed inside the outer box 72, and the user sets the amount of water supplied by the water level switch 73a of the operation panel 73 provided at the upper part of the outer box 72. Can be done. And the control apparatus of the drum-type washing machine 70 performs the steps S1 to S10, S11 to S28, S30 to S44, and S50 to S62 similarly to the control apparatus 19, first and second determination means, and notification means. It is configured as a changing means.

  That is, the control device of the drum type washing machine 70 executes steps S1 to S4 to detect the amount of laundry, and the water supply set by the water level switch 73a as compared with the amount of laundry or the amount of water supply corresponding to the amount of laundry. It is determined whether the amount is large or small (steps S5 and S6). Then, based on the determination result, information on the washing performance is notified by an alarm sound or displayed on the display unit 73b of the operation panel 73 (steps S7 to S9). As described in the third embodiment, in steps S5 and S6, it may be determined whether the water supply amount set by the water level switch 73a is large or small with reference to a predetermined bath ratio.

  In this regard, as described above, the optimum bath ratio may vary depending on the type of washing machine. The bath ratio is generally about 10 for a fully automatic washing machine, for example, and about 5 for a drum type washing machine. In FIG. 9, when the bath ratio is 8 to 14, the index indicating the cleaning performance is “★★★★★”, which is the highest evaluation, and conversely, when the bath ratio is too low or too high, the cleaning is performed. The index indicating the performance was defined as the lowest rating “★”. Also in the drum type washing machine 70, the range of the optimal bath ratio is set according to the type, the bath ratio table is collated, and the determination result is displayed on the display unit 73b. As a result, various kinds of washing machines such as the drum type washing machine 70 can obtain the desired washing performance, and the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment can be obtained.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

  In the drawing, 1 and 71 are washing machine bodies, 4 is a water tub, 6 is a rotating tub, 10 is a motor, 14 and 15 are water supply means, 19 is a control device (laundry amount detection means, setting means, first and second determinations) Means, notification means, change means), 28, 42, 73b are notification means, 30, 73a are setting means, and 38 is a laundry amount detection means.

Claims (2)

A washing machine body having a tub inside;
Laundry amount detection means for detecting the amount of laundry;
A motor capable of generating a water flow in the tank;
Water supply means for supplying water into the tank;
A setting means for a user to set a water supply amount of the water supply means;
A first determination unit that determines whether the amount of water set by the setting unit is greater or less than the amount of laundry detected by the laundry amount detection unit or the amount of water supplied according to the amount of laundry;
Based on the determination result of the first determination unit, when the amount of water supply set by the setting unit as at least information on washing performance is greater or less than the appropriate amount of water, a notification unit that notifies the fact,
In a configuration with
Further, the middle or the water supply operation of the water supply means water operation temporarily stop, the load acting on the motor when by driving the motor, by the threshold and comparison of the water supply means A second determination means for determining whether the amount of laundry is large or small as compared to the amount of water in the tub during the water supply operation or when the water supply operation is temporarily stopped ;
The informing means informs at least one of information on washing performance and cloth damage as information on washing performance based on the determination result of the second determining means. . A washing machine body having a tub inside;
Laundry amount detection means for detecting the amount of laundry;
A motor capable of generating a water flow in the tank;
Water supply means for supplying water into the tank;
A setting means for a user to set a water supply amount of the water supply means;
A first determination unit that determines whether the amount of water set by the setting unit is greater or less than the amount of laundry detected by the laundry amount detection unit or the amount of water supplied according to the amount of laundry;
Based on the determination result of the first determination unit, as the information on the washing performance, a notification unit that notifies at least one of the information on the cleaning performance, the rinsing performance, and the fabric damage;
In a configuration with
Further, the middle or the water supply operation of the water supply means water operation temporarily stop, the load acting on the motor when by driving the motor, by the threshold and comparison of the water supply means A second determination means for determining whether the amount of laundry is large or small as compared to the amount of water in the tub during the water supply operation or when the water supply operation is temporarily stopped ;
The informing means informs at least one of information on washing performance and cloth damage as information on washing performance based on the determination result of the second determining means. .

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