JP6655131B2 - Washing machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention
The present invention relates to all types of washing machines such as, for example, a drum type washing machine, a fully automatic washing machine, and a two-tub washing machine.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, some washing machines output an audio guide corresponding to the operation unit when the operation unit is operated (for example, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-255577 (Patent Document 1)). The information amount and speed of the voice guide are set in advance so as to be constant. As a result, the user can obtain a constant information amount of the voice guide at a constant speed.

JP-A-10-255577

  However, in the above-described conventional washing machine, since the information amount and speed of the voice guide are constant, for example, if the user is in a hurry, the voice guide may feel sloppy.

  That is, the conventional washing machine has a problem that the information amount and speed of the voice guide may be inappropriate for the user.

  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine that can supply an appropriate voice guide to a user.

In order to solve the above problems, the washing machine of the present invention
An operation unit for selecting a laundry processing step;
A voice guide output unit for outputting a voice guide,
With a control device,
The control device includes:
First determining means for determining an operation state of the operation unit;
Changing means for changing an output mode of the voice guide in accordance with a result of the determination of the operation state of the operation unit by the first determining means.

In one embodiment of the washing machine,
The first determination unit determines an operation interval of the operation unit,
The changing means performs at least one of a change that increases the speed of the voice guide as the operation interval becomes shorter and a change that simplifies the content of the voice guide as the operation interval becomes shorter. .

In one embodiment of the washing machine,
The operation unit has a power key for turning on the power,
The first determination means determines an integrated value of the number of times the power key has been operated,
The changing means changes the frequency and speed of the voice guide so that the age of the voice of the voice guide increases as the integrated value of the number of times of operation of the power key increases, or operates the power key. As the integrated value of the number of times increases, the content of the voice guide is changed so that the user becomes familiar with the voice guide.

In one embodiment of the washing machine,
The operation unit has a power key for turning on power, and a start key for starting a processing step of the laundry,
The first determination means determines whether the power key and the start key have been operated,
The control device includes:
Second determining means for determining whether there is information to be transmitted to the user when the power key is operated;
First instruction means for instructing the voice guide output unit to output the information as the voice guide when there is the information,
When the start key is operated during the output of the information as the voice guide, the changing unit changes the speed of the voice guide after the start key is operated, before the start key is operated. A change to make the speed higher than the speed of the voice guide, and a change to simplify the content of the voice guide after the start key is operated more than the content of the voice guide before the start key is operated. Do at least one.

In one embodiment of the washing machine,
The operation unit has a function key for obtaining a specific function and a voice key for listening to a description of the specific function,
The control device includes:
Third determining means for determining whether the function key has been operated;
Flashing means for flashing the voice key when the function key is operated;
Fourth determining means for determining whether or not the voice key has been operated while blinking;
Second instruction means for instructing the voice guide output unit to output a description of the function key as the voice guide when operated while the voice key is blinking.

  According to the washing machine of the present invention, the control device changes the output mode of the voice guide according to the first determination unit that determines the operation state of the operation unit and the determination result of the operation state of the operation unit by the first determination unit. Since there is a change means for changing, it is possible to supply an appropriate voice guide to the user.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a washing and drying machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view of the washing and drying machine. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the upper front part of the outer box of the washing and drying machine. FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the washing and drying machine. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the output procedure of the voice guide of the washing and drying machine. FIG. 6 is a control block diagram of the washing / drying machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a view for explaining an example of the output of the voice guide of the washing and drying machine. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining another example of the output of the voice guide of the washing and drying machine. FIG. 9 is a view for explaining still another example of the output of the voice guide of the washing and drying machine. FIG. 10 is a front view of the operation display unit of the washing / drying machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a control block diagram of the washing and drying machine. FIG. 12 is a control block diagram of a washing / drying machine according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a control block diagram of a washing and drying machine according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a control block diagram of a first modified example of the washing and drying machine of the second embodiment. FIG. 15 is a control block diagram of a second modification of the washing / drying machine of the second embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an output example of the voice guide according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a washing and drying machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a schematic configuration relating to a drying function of the washing and drying machine.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine is operated to select a driving operation, and opens and closes an operation display unit 4 for displaying a driving state and an opening of the washing tub 2 and the rotating drum 3 (see FIG. 2). A door 5 is provided on the front of the outer box 1.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the washing and drying machine includes an outer box 1, a washing tub 2 disposed in the outer box 1, a rotating drum 3 for accommodating laundry 6 and the like, And a drive motor 7 for driving the rotation around the central axis J. Here, the rotating drum 3 is arranged so that the front side is higher than the back side. That is, the front side of the rotating drum 3 faces obliquely upward. Further, the washing tub 2 and the rotating drum 3 have openings on the door 5 side, and the user can put the laundry 6 in and out of the rotating drum 3 by opening the door 5. By closing the door 5, the washing tub 2 is kept watertight and airtight. Note that the extending direction of the central axis J may be horizontal.

  In addition, a filter storage section 8 is arranged on the upper rear side of the outer box 1. A first air circulation duct 10 is provided between the intake port 8a of the filter storage section 8 and the exhaust port 9 of the washing tub 2, while a first air circulation duct 10 is provided between the exhaust port 8b of the filter storage section 8 and the heat pump unit 11. Has a second air circulation duct 12. The heat pump unit 11 is disposed at a lower portion on the back side of the outer box 1. An air duct 14 is provided between the heat pump unit 11 and the air inlet 13 of the washing tub 2.

  Further, a circulation fan 15 is provided on the heat pump unit 11 side of the blower duct 14. When the circulation fan 15 is driven, the air that has flowed out of the washing tub 2 is passed through the first air circulation duct 10, the filter storage unit 8, the second air circulation duct 12, the heat pump unit 11, and the ventilation duct 14. It circulates back inside.

A plurality of through holes (not shown) that allow water and air to flow from the space in the rotating drum 3 to the space between the washing tub 2 and the rotating drum 3 are formed in the peripheral surface 3A of the rotating drum 3. ) Is formed. Further, a plurality of air introduction holes (not shown) communicating with the air inlet 13 of the washing tub 2 are formed on the bottom surface 3B of the rotating drum 3. As a result, the dried heated air supplied from the heat pump unit 11 through the air duct 14 can flow into the rotary drum 3 from the air inlet 13 as shown by an arrow Y in FIG.

  Further, the heated air that has deprived the laundry 6 and the like contained in the rotary drum 3 of moisture becomes moisture-absorbing air. This moisture-absorbed air enters the washing tub 2 from the through hole of the peripheral surface 3A of the rotary drum 3 as shown by an arrow Z in FIG. 2, and passes through the first air circulation duct 10 from the exhaust port 9 of the washing tub 2. The air is exhausted toward the filter housing section 8 and guided from the filter housing section 8 to the heat pump unit 11 through the second air circulation duct 12.

The heat pump unit 11 includes a refrigerant circuit configured by connecting an evaporator 16, a compressor 17, a condenser 18, and an expansion valve 19 in an annular manner with a refrigerant pipe 20. The refrigerant compressed by the compressor 17 flows in the order of the condenser 18, the expansion valve 19 and the evaporator 16, and flows through the evaporator 16.
Then, the moisture-absorbed air from the second air circulation duct 12 is cooled and dried, and then heated by the condenser 18 and sent to the air duct 14. At this time, the control device 22 controls the compressor 17 according to the refrigerant temperature measured by the temperature sensor 21. Further, the control device 22 controls the expansion valve 19 as necessary. Note that the temperature sensor 21 is attached to the refrigerant pipe 20 on the discharge side of the compressor 17.

  FIG. 3 is an enlarged view showing the upper front part of the outer box 1. In FIG. 3, the keys and the display section are all turned on.

  The operation display unit 4 has a power-on button 51, a power-off button 52, a start / pause button 53, and an unlock button 54. These buttons are, for example, physical buttons such as push buttons. The operation display unit 4 is an example of an operation unit. The power-on button 51 is an example of a power key. The start / pause button 53 is an example of a start key.

  Further, the operation display section 4 has a drive switching key 55, a course selection key 56, a menu key 57, an adjustment key 58, a stroke key 59, a reservation key 60, and a rinse once key 61. These keys are soft keys displayed on the touch panel.

  When the user presses the operation switching key 55 one or more times, one of the characters “washing-drying”, “washing”, “drying”, “favorite”, “care”, and “refresh” is displayed. Lights up above the operation switching key 55.

  When the user presses the course selection key 56 one or more times, “standard”, “my home style”, “soft”, “drying indoors”, “dry”, “blanket”, “still”, and “rotation” Is lit above the course selection key 56.

  When the user presses the menu key 57 one or more times, all of the adjustment key 58, the stroke key 59, the reservation key 60, and the once-rinse key 61 are lit on the side and below the menu key 57.

  In addition, below the adjustment key 58 and the stroke key 59, a display section 62 such as a numeral is provided. The numeral display section 62 displays at least one of numerals and characters in response to the pressing of the adjustment key 58 or the like.

Although not shown, a plurality of LEDs (light emitting diodes) are attached to a portion inside the operation display unit 4. When the LED emits light, characters such as “washing to drying” light up.

  FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the washing and drying machine.

  The washing / drying machine includes a control device 22, a non-volatile storage unit 23 composed of, for example, a flash memory, a locking mechanism 24 for locking the door 5, and a speaker 25 for outputting a voice guide. The storage unit 23 stores operation intervals of the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56, and the menu key 57. The storage unit 23 also stores the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51. Note that the speaker 25 is an example of a voice guide output unit.

  The control device 22 includes a microcomputer having a CPU (central processing unit), a RAM (random access memory), a ROM (read only memory), a timer, and the like, and an input / output circuit. It is possible to measure the time taken from when is pressed until the next course selection key 56 is pressed. Further, the operation display unit 4, the temperature sensor 21, the heat pump unit 11, the drive motor 7, the circulation fan 15, the storage unit 23, the locking mechanism 24, the speaker 25, and the like are connected to the control device 22.

  Further, the control device 22 includes an operation interval determination unit 22a, a first audio guide adjustment unit 22b, and a second audio guide adjustment unit 22c. The operation interval determination unit 22a, the first voice guide adjustment unit 22b, and the second voice guide adjustment unit 22c are each configured by software. The operation interval determination unit 22a is an example of a first determination unit. The second voice guide adjusting unit 22c is an example of a changing unit.

The operation interval determination means 22a determines whether or not the average value of the last five operation intervals of the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56, and the menu key 57 is equal to or less than a preset threshold Th (a). I do. Here, the operation interval means a period from when the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56 or the menu key 57 is pressed to when the next key (the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56 or the menu key 57) is pressed. Time taken.

  When it is determined that the average value of the five most recent operation intervals is not less than or equal to the threshold Th (a), the first voice guide adjustment unit 22b adjusts the speed of the voice guide to a preset standard speed and The content of the voice guide is adjusted to a preset standard content. Thus, the voice guide ends at a preset standard time.

  The second voice guide adjusting means 22c performs at least one of a change to increase the speed of the voice guide as the operation interval becomes shorter and a change to simplify the content of the voice guide as the operation interval becomes shorter. Do. More specifically, when it is determined that the average value of the five most recent operation intervals is equal to or less than the threshold Th (a), the second voice guide adjustment unit 22c determines at least one of the content and the speed of the voice guide. To adjust. Thus, the audio guide ends in a shorter time than the standard time.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an output procedure of the voice guide of the washing and drying machine.

  First, in step S1, the power-on button 51 is pressed.

Next, in step S2, time measurement is started. More specifically, measurement of operation intervals of the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56, and the menu key 57 is started. Here, the above-mentioned operation interval means that one of the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56 and the menu key 57 is pressed, and then the next key (the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56 and the menu key 57) 57 (one of 57 keys).

  Next, in steps S3 to S5, the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56, and the menu key 57 are sequentially detected. Here, the above detection means that inspection is performed to determine whether the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56, or the menu key 57 has been pressed. Note that the above detection is continued until the start / pause button 53 is pressed.

  When it is detected that the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56, or the menu key 57 has been pressed, the detected time is stored in the storage unit 23 in step S6. At this time, if the storage of the time has been performed a plurality of times since the start of the measurement of the operation interval, the difference between the currently stored time and the previously stored time, that is, the operation interval is stored in the storage unit 23. Such operation intervals are stored in the storage unit 23 for the five most recent operations.

  When it is detected that the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56 or the menu key 57 is pressed, the display of the operation display unit 4 is changed in step S21.

  For example, when it is detected that the operation switching key 55 has been pressed, as shown in steps S21-1 to S21-3, the characters "wash and dry", "wash only" or "dry only" light up.

  When it is detected that the course selection key 56 has been pressed, the characters "standard", "A course" or "B course" are lit as shown in steps S21-4 to S21-6.

If it is detected that the menu key 57 has been pressed, as shown in steps S21-7 to S21-9, the characters "Ag On / Off", "Flood water On / Off" or "reservation setting" are displayed. Lights up.

  On the other hand, when the operation intervals are stored in the storage unit 23, in step S7, the average value of the last five operation intervals is calculated, and the voice guide setting is updated based on the average value.

  For example, when the average value is larger than the threshold Th (a), the first voice guide adjusting unit 22b adjusts the speed of the voice guide to a standard speed that has been adjusted in advance, and sets the content of the voice guide in advance. Adjust to standard content.

Further, the average value is equal to or less than the threshold value Th (a), and the threshold value Th (b) (
If <Th (a)) or more, the second voice guide adjusting unit 22c adjusts the content of the voice guide to the standard content and adjusts the speed of the voice guide to a speed higher than the standard speed.

Further, the average value is less than the threshold value Th (b), and the threshold value Th (c) (
<Th (b)) or more, the second voice guide adjusting means 22c sets the content of the voice guide
The content is adjusted to be more compressed than the standard content, and the speed of the voice guide is adjusted to the standard speed.

  When the average value is less than the threshold value Th (c), the second voice guide adjusting unit 22c adjusts the content of the voice guide to a content that is more compressed than the standard content and reduces the speed of the voice guide. The speed is adjusted to be higher than the standard speed.

Based on the time measurement described above, at the time of the subsequent output of the voice guide (step S8), the content of the voice guide is adjusted and the speed of the voice is adjusted, and the voice guide is output via the speaker 25. In FIG. 5, for convenience of explanation, step S8 is shown last, but as described above, based on the time measurement of the key operation up to the previous time (for example, the average value of the last five past operations). When the voice guide is output, the content of the voice guide is adjusted, the speed of the voice output is adjusted, and the like is output.

  In this way, at least one of the content and speed of the voice guide is adjusted according to the average value of the last five operation intervals of the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56, and the menu key 57, and At the end of the process, the user can be provided with an appropriate voice guide.

  Hereinafter, in order to enhance the understanding of the present invention, an output example of the audio guide will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 16 shows an example in which a voice guide is output when the power is turned on. Note that the audio guide is not limited to when the power is turned on, but is output when necessary.

When the power is turned on (the operation of the power-on key 51), the voice guide is displayed in standard time at "Good morning (
1 second) and "washing tips (2 seconds)". According to the present invention, before outputting the content (information) corresponding to the “washing hint”, the content of the hint is output after a certain time “interval”. That is, there is a certain time interval between one phrase and the next. This is set so that a sufficient system for asking the user for the contents of the "hint" can be taken.

  For example, “melody (1 second)” is output during the “interval”. As a result, the user can arrange a system for listening to the contents with plenty of time. After this “between” hours, an audio guide such as “Please use a dry course for important clothes (3 seconds)” is output. Note that the content of the hint may be continuously output as a sound without providing “interval” between the above-mentioned phrases.

  As described above, when the audio guide is output, users who are unfamiliar with the washing machine, or at the initial stage (for example, when the key operation time is not measured), can use the standard contents and standard so that the user can fully understand the contents. An audio guide is output according to the time. For example, assuming that the value is larger than Th (a) in the circled number 1 in FIG. 5, the audio guide is output with the content of FIG. 16A as described above.

  As a comparative example for comparison with the present invention, a case where the start key 53 is operated during the output of the voice guide as shown in FIG. 16B will be described. For example, the start key 53 is operated at the time of outputting the voice guidance of “washing tips”. At the time of the operation, the output voice guide stops. Therefore, a voice guide such as “Please use a dry course for important clothes” is not output, and a voice guide such as “Start driving” is output in response to the operation of the start key 53. When the user always uses the washing machine and becomes accustomed to the key operation of the washing machine, the operation time of the key operation becomes gradually shorter, and the start key 53 is operated during the output of the voice guide.

  On the other hand, according to the present invention, a voice guide can be output so that the user can hear necessary information. That is, the following describes an example in which a voice guide is output so that the user can hear necessary information (contents) even when the user becomes accustomed to key operations and the operation interval is shortened.

Then, when the time of the key operation is shortened and the average value of the key operation is equal to or less than the threshold Th (a) and equal to or greater than the preset threshold Th (b) (<Th (a)), The speed of the voice guide is adjusted and output to a speed higher than the standard speed. As an example, as shown in FIG. 16 (c), at the time of power ON operation, "good morning (0.7 seconds)", "washing tips (1.4 seconds)", "melody (0.7 seconds)", "Please use a dry course for important clothes (2.1 seconds)" and an audio guide is output. Therefore, a shorter time (7 seconds in this example)
In the example, 4.9 seconds), the voice guide can be surely ended. In this case, the content of the voice guide is adjusted to the standard content, so that it is possible to prevent the amount of information transmitted to the user by the voice guide from decreasing.

  When the key operation time is further shortened and the average value is less than the threshold value Th (b) and is equal to or more than the preset threshold value Th (c) (<Th (b)), Is adjusted to a compressed content as compared with the standard content and output. For example, as shown in FIG. 16D, for example, the contents of “Good morning” and “Hint of washing” are deleted, and a voice guide such as “Please use a dry course for important clothes (3 seconds)” is output. Is done. As a result, it is possible to ensure that the user finishes the audio guide with accurate contents in a shorter time than the standard time. In that case, the speed of the voice guide is adjusted to the standard speed, so that the possibility that the user misses the voice guide can be reduced.

When the average value is less than the threshold Th (c), an example of the voice guide is shown in FIG. The content of this audio guide will be adjusted to a compressed content (“Please use a dry course for important clothes”) compared to the standard content above, so the voice guide will be shorter than the standard time It can be surely finished. Further, in that case, the speed of the voice guide is adjusted to a speed higher than the standard speed (in the example, 3 seconds is reduced to 2.1 seconds).
As a result, the audio guide can be surely ended in a shorter time than the standard time.

As described above, the key operation interval of the user is shortened, and after the power is turned on, the washing course and the like are washed, and after inputting the conditions such as washing and drying in various contents, the start key 53 is operated. Even if the time is 3 seconds as shown in FIG. 16 (b), as shown in FIGS. 16 (d) and (e), the information necessary for the user is "important clothing uses a dry course. Please give me a voice guide, and you can output a voice guide like "Start driving" after operating the start key.

  In addition, since the average value of the last five operation intervals of the operation switching key 55, the course selection key 56, and the menu key 57 is used as a reference for adjusting at least one of the content and the speed of the voice guide, the voice to the user is used. The suitability of the guide can be increased.

  In the first embodiment, the operation interval determination unit 22a, the first voice guide adjustment unit 22b, and the second voice guide adjustment unit 22c are each configured by software, but may be configured by hardware. Good.

  In the first embodiment, instead of providing the operation switching key 55 and the course key 56 on the operation display unit 4, as shown in the third embodiment described with reference to FIG. , A drying key and a refresh key may be provided. In such a case, the voice guide may be adjusted based on the operation intervals of the wash key, the wash-dry key, the dry key, the refresh key, and the menu key 57.

  In the first embodiment, the second voice guide adjusting means 22c adjusts the voice guide based on the average value of the five most recent operation intervals. The adjustment of the voice guide may be performed based on the average value of four or six or more times.

In the first embodiment, the second voice guide adjustment unit 22c adjusts the voice guide based on the average value of the five most recent operation intervals. The voice guide may be adjusted based on the voice guide. That is, the second voice guide adjusting means 22
For c, the average value of the operation intervals may not be used.

  In the first embodiment, the second voice guide adjusting unit 22c can adjust both the content and the speed of the voice guide. However, the second voice guide adjusting unit 22c can adjust only one of the content and the speed of the voice guide. Is also good.

  In the first embodiment, when the operation interval is less than the threshold Th (b) and is equal to or more than a preset threshold Th (c) d (<Th (b)), the second voice guide adjustment is performed. The means 22c may adjust the content of the voice guide to a content that is more compressed than the standard content, and may adjust the speed of the voice guide to a speed higher than the standard speed. In such a case, when the operation interval is smaller than a preset threshold Th (c), the voice guide may not be played.

  In the first embodiment, the start / pause button 53 is a physical button, but may be a soft key displayed on a touch panel.

  By the way, in the washing machine disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-255577, if the starter button is pressed while the voice guide is being output, the voice guide stops.

  Therefore, the washing machine has a problem that the contents of the voice guide may not be sufficiently transmitted to the user.

  Therefore, a washing machine for solving the above problem will be described in a second embodiment.

[Second embodiment]
FIG. 6 is a control block diagram of the washing / drying machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. 6, the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG. Also in the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment.

  The washing / drying machine includes a control device 222 different from the control device 22 of the first embodiment. The control device 222 includes a power-on button press determining unit 222a, an information presence / absence determining unit 222b, a first voice guide instructing unit 222c, a start / pause button pressing determining unit 222d, and a second voice guide instructing unit 222e. . The information presence / absence determining unit 222b, the first voice guide instructing unit 222c, the start / pause button pressing determining unit 222d, and the second voice guide instructing unit 222e are each configured by software. The power-on button pressing determining means 222a and the start / pause button pressing determining means 222d are examples of a first determining means. The information presence / absence determining unit 222b is an example of a second determining unit. Further, the first voice guide instruction unit 222c is an example of a first instruction unit.

  The power-on button pressing determining means 222a determines whether the power-on button 51 has been pressed.

The information presence / absence determining unit 222b determines whether there is information to be transmitted to the user when the power-on button pressing determining unit 222a determines that the power-on button 51 has been pressed. As this information, there is information that needs to be transmitted to the user according to the previous driving state. For example, when clogging of the dry filter in the filter storage unit 8 is detected during the previous operation, the information indicates that the dry filter is clogged. Other examples of the above information include that the drain filter (not shown) is clogged, the amount of detergent is too large, the amount of detergent is too small, and the tank cleaning has not been performed for a certain period of time. There are things. The drain filter is a filter provided in a path for draining washing water and the like in the washing tub 2 out of the outer box 1.

  When the information presence / absence determining unit 222b determines that the information is present, the first voice guide instruction unit 222c causes the speaker 25 to output a voice guide containing the information at a constant speed.

  The start / pause button pressing determining means 222d determines whether the start / pause button 53 has been pressed.

  The second voice guide instructing means 222e determines that the start / pause button 53 has been pressed by the start / pause button pressing determining means 222d while the voice guidance by the first voice guide instructing means 222c is being output. When the voice guide is completed, the voice guide associated with the start / pause button 53 is output to the speaker 25 after the voice guide ends.

  In the washing / drying machine having the above-described configuration, for example, when clogging of the drying filter in the filter storage unit 8 is detected during the previous operation, as illustrated in FIG. Please clean it, the drying time will be longer. " At this time, if the start / pause button 53 is pressed while the voice guide is being output, the second voice guide instructing means 222e terminates the voice guide, and then presses the start / pause button 53. A voice guide associated in advance is output from the speaker 25. Thereby, the user can hear the audio guide to the end, "Good morning, please clean the drying filter, the drying time will be longer." Therefore, the contents of the audio guide can be sufficiently transmitted to the user.

  In addition, after the above voice guidance “Good morning, please clean the drying filter, the drying time will be longer”, the voice guide previously associated with the start / pause button 53 (for example, “Start driving Is performed from the speaker 25, so that the user can also confirm that driving has started.

  In the second embodiment, clogging of the drying filter may be detected based on the temperature of the air circulating during the drying operation.

  In the second embodiment, the clogging of the drain filter may be detected based on the time required for draining the washing water and the like in the washing tub 2 out of the outer box 1.

  In the second embodiment, an excessive amount of detergent may be detected using an optical sensor or an electrode attached to the washing tub 2.

  FIG. 14 is a control block diagram of a first modification of the washing / drying machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 14, the same components as those of FIG. 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of FIG.

  The first modified example of the washing and drying machine includes a control device 1222 having a third voice guide adjusting unit 222f. The third voice guide adjusting unit 222f is an example of a changing unit.

The third voice guide adjusting means 222f is configured by software. More specifically, when the start / pause button 53 is pressed while the voice guide is being output by the first voice guide instructing unit 222c, the third voice guide adjusting unit 222f performs processing after the start / pause button 53 is pressed. The speed of the voice guide is made faster than the speed of the voice guide before the start / pause button 53 is pressed. As shown in FIG. 8, for example, when the start / pause button 53 is pressed while the message “Good morning, please clean the drying filter, drying time will be longer” is output as the above audio guide. After the detection of the press of the start / pause button 53, the speed of the voice guide increases. Thus, the voice guide can be terminated earlier than in the second embodiment, so that the user can hear the next voice guide “Start driving” earlier.

  FIG. 15 is a control block diagram of a second modification of the washing / drying machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 15, the same components as those of FIG. 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of FIG.

  The first modified example of the washing / drying machine includes a control device 1222 having fourth voice guide adjusting means 222g. The fourth voice guide adjusting unit 222g is an example of a changing unit.

  The fourth voice guide adjusting means 222g is configured by software. More specifically, when the start / pause button 53 is pressed while the voice guide is being output by the first voice guide instructing unit 222c, the fourth voice guide adjusting unit 222g performs processing after the start / pause button 53 is pressed. The content of the voice guide is simplified more than the content of the voice guide before the start / pause button 53 is pressed. As shown in FIG. 9, for example, when the start / pause button 53 is pressed while the message “Good morning, please clean the drying filter, drying time will be longer” is output as the audio guide. After the detection of the press of the start / pause button 53, the above-mentioned voice guide is simplified, and "Drying time becomes longer" does not flow. Thus, the voice guide can be terminated earlier than in the second embodiment, so that the user can hear the next voice guide “Start driving” earlier.

  In the second modified example, the fourth voice guide adjusting means 222g may be replaced with a voice guide adjusting means for adjusting the third voice guide adjusting means 222f and the fourth voice guide adjusting means 222g.

  By the way, in the washing machine disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-255577, for example, when an Ag ion coat for disinfecting and deodorizing clothing is made available, usually, a user does not need to see an instruction manual to use an Ag ion coat. Can not understand the features and functions of. For this reason, there arises a problem that the characteristic function is not actively used.

  Therefore, a washing machine for solving the above problem will be described in a third embodiment.

[Third embodiment]
FIG. 10 is a front view of the operation display unit 304 of the washing / drying machine according to the third embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 10, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of the first embodiment. Also in the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment.

  The operation display section 304 has a power-on button 51, a power-off button 52, a start / pause button 53, an unlock button 54, and a listen button 370. These buttons are, for example, physical buttons such as push buttons. Note that the operation display unit 304 is an example of an operation unit. The listen button 370 is an example of a voice key.

  The operation display section 304 has an operation switching key 355, a menu key 57, an adjustment key 58, a stroke key 59, and a function addition key 363. These keys are soft keys displayed on the touch panel.

  The operation switching key 355 has a function similar to that of the operation switching key 55 and the course selection key 56 of the first embodiment.

  The function addition key 363 includes a reservation key 60, a bath water key 364, and a tank clean key 365. When the bath water key 364 is pressed, washing and rinsing with bath water are performed. When the tub clean key 365 is pressed, the back of the washing tub 2 is rinsed cleanly. The reservation key 60, the bath water key 364, and the tank clean key 365 are examples of function keys.

  When the user presses the reservation key 60, the bath water key 364, or the tank clean key 365, the button 370 blinks upon hearing. Then, when the user hears the blinking and presses the button 370, an audio guide explaining the function of the function addition key 363 pressed immediately before is output from the speaker 25. At this time, the function addition key 363 for explaining the function of the voice guide blinks. The content and speed of the audio guide are set in advance.

  FIG. 11 is a control block diagram of the washing and drying machine. In FIG. 11, the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG.

  The washing / drying machine includes a control device 322 different from the control device 22 of the first embodiment. The control device 322 includes a function addition key selection determination unit 322a, a listen button blinking unit 322b, a listen button press determination unit 322c, a voice guide instruction unit 322d, and a function addition key blinking unit 322e.

The function addition key selection determining means 322a determines whether the function addition key 363 (reservation key 60, bath water key 364, or tank clean key 365) is pressed and selected.

  The listen button blinking means 322b blinks the listen button 370 when the function addition key selection determining means 322a determines that the function addition key 363 is selected.

  The listening button press determining means 322c determines whether the blinking listening button 370 has been pressed.

  The voice guide instructing means 322d outputs a voice guide previously associated with the function addition key 363 to the speaker 25 when the listening button pressing determining means 322c determines that the blinking listening button 370 has been pressed. Let it.

  The function addition key blinking means 322e blinks the function addition key 363 during output of the voice guide.

  According to the washing / drying machine having the above-described configuration, when the listening button press determination unit 322c determines that the blinking listening button 370 is pressed, the voice guide instruction unit 322d is associated with the function addition key 363 in advance. Since the audio guide is output to the speaker 25, the user can easily understand the characteristic function of the function addition key 363. Therefore, the characteristic function of the function addition key 363 can be positively used.

  When the function addition key selection unit 322a determines that the function addition key 363 is selected, the listen button blinking unit 322b listens and blinks the button 370. It becomes easier to notice that there is an associated voice guide.

  In addition, since the function addition key blinking means 322e blinks the function addition key 363 during the output of the voice guide, the user can easily understand which function addition key 363 is described by the voice guide.

  In the third embodiment, when the listen button 370 is not blinking, when the listen button 370 is pressed, the voice guidance regarding the function addition key 363 may be randomly performed. That is, one of the reservation key 60, the bath water key 364, and the tank clean key 365 may be randomly selected, and an audio guide related to the selected key may be output.

  An output example of the voice guide will be described below so that the above can be easily understood. When the reservation key 60 of the function key is operated, the listen button 370 flashes. If the user operates the button 370 by the blinking, the portion of the reservation key 60 blinks. At the same time, a voice guide such as "set the operation completion time and calculate to end the operation before that time and start the operation" is output.

  Also, if the above-mentioned tub clean key 365 is operated and the blinking listening button 370 is operated, a voice guide such as "After the operation is completed, the washing tub is disinfected with the disinfection (plasma cluster) ions" is output. Is done. As described above, by operating the key of the characteristic function, an audio guide describing the function is output, so that the user can easily understand the contents of the characteristic function.

  In the third embodiment, the function addition key 363 may include a one-time rinsing key for rinsing once.

  In the third embodiment, the reservation key 60, the bath water key 364, and the tank clean key 365 are soft keys displayed on the touch panel, but may be physical buttons.

  In the third embodiment, the listen button 370 is a physical button, but may be a soft key displayed on a touch panel.

  By the way, the washing machine disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-255577 has a problem that the attachment of the user cannot be increased.

  Therefore, a washing machine for solving the above problem will be described in fourth and fifth embodiments.

[Fourth embodiment]
FIG. 12 is a control block diagram of a washing / drying machine according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. 12, the same components as those of FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the components of FIG. Also in the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment.

The washing / drying machine includes a control device 422 different from the control device 22 of the first embodiment. The control device 422 adjusts the content of the voice guide so that the user becomes familiar with the voice guide as the total number of operations (the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51) written in the storage unit 23 increases. More specifically, the control device 422 includes an integrated value determining unit 422a that determines the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51, and a voice guide adjusting unit 422b that adjusts the content of the voice guide based on the integrated value. are doing.

The voice guide adjusting unit 422a determines that the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 is 365 times (
If the usage period is less than one year, the voice guide is output in the polite mode, and the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 is 365 times or more and 1460 times (
If the usage period is less than one year and less than four years), the voice guide is output in the normal mode, and the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 is 1460 times (the usage period). If the number is equal to or more than four years), the voice guide is adjusted so that the voice guide is output in the friend mode. Here, the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 can be estimated to coincide with the total number of operations performed since the purchase of the washing / drying machine unless the storage unit 23 is replaced.

  An example of the voice guide output in the above-mentioned polite mode is "~ An error has occurred. I'm sorry, but please check ~."

  An example of the voice guide output in the normal mode is "~ error. Please check ~."

  As an example of the voice guide output in the friend mode, there is "~ error. Sorry, check ~."

  As the audio guide output in the friend mode, unique terms, dialects, and the like in various places may be output. For example, in the Kansai area, a voice guide may be output with a content such as "If you do not confirm the error, the driving time will be longer and the electricity cost will be higher."

  According to the washer / dryer having the above configuration, the voice guide adjusting unit 422a adjusts the voice guide based on the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51, so that the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 is small. Is a marginal voice guide, but if the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 increases, it can be changed to a familiar voice guide. Therefore, the user can have a feeling that the user gradually becomes familiar with the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 and obtains a familiar relationship. As a result, the user's attachment to the washing and drying machine can be increased.

[Fifth Embodiment]
FIG. 13 is a control block diagram of the washing / drying machine according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 13, the same components as those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG. Also in the following description, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the first embodiment.

The washing / drying machine includes a control device 522 different from the control device 22 of the first embodiment. The control device 522 increases the age of the voice of the voice guide as the total number of operations (the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51) written in the storage unit 23 increases.
Change the audio guide frequency and speed. More specifically, the control device 522 includes an integrated value determining unit 522a that determines the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51, and a voice guide adjusting unit 522b that adjusts the frequency and speed of the voice guide based on the integrated value. have.

If the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 is less than 365 times (the number of times the usage period is estimated to be less than one year), the voice guide adjusting unit 522a outputs the voice guide in the child mode, If the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 is 365 times or more and less than 1460 times (the number of usage periods is estimated to be 1 year or more and less than 4 years), the voice guide is output in the adult mode. If the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 is 1460 times (the number of usage periods is estimated to be 4 years or more), the voice guide is adjusted so that the voice guide is output in the elderly mode. I do. Here, the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 can be estimated to coincide with the total number of operations performed since the purchase of the washing / drying machine unless the storage unit 23 is replaced.

  The audio guide output in the child mode has a frequency of, for example, 900 Hz and a speed of, for example, 770 characters / minute.

  The voice guide output in the adult mode has a frequency of, for example, 700 Hz and a speed of, for example, 570 characters / minute.

  The voice guide output in the elderly mode has a frequency of, for example, 500 Hz and a speed of, for example, 470 characters / minute.

  According to the washing / drying machine having the above configuration, the voice guide adjusting means 522b adjusts the voice guide based on the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51, so that the user can obtain the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51. With the increase of the voice guide, the voice of the voice guide can be felt as aging. That is, when the integrated value of the operation of the power on button 51 is small, the voice of the voice guide can make the user feel energetic, and when the integrated value of the operation of the power on button 51 increases, Can be given to the user, and when the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 further increases, the tone can be further reduced and an old image can be given to the user. Therefore, if the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 increases, the user can easily realize that he / she has a long relationship. As a result, the user's attachment to the washing and drying machine can be increased.

  In addition, the user can feel that the voice of the voice guide is aging as the integrated value of the operation of the power-on button 51 increases, so that the user can easily recognize the progress of the years of use of the product. Therefore, it is easy to request maintenance for a defect caused by the deterioration of the product over time and recommend replacement by purchase, for example, when the life of the product is short.

  Although the specific embodiments of the present invention have been described, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be implemented with various modifications within the scope of the present invention. For example, an embodiment in which the contents described in the first to fifth embodiments are appropriately combined may be adopted as one embodiment of the present invention.

  That is, the present invention and embodiments are summarized as follows.

The washing machine of the present invention
An operation unit 4, 304 for selecting a laundry processing step;
An audio guide output unit 25 that outputs an audio guide,
Control devices 22, 322, 422, 522, 1222, 2222,
The control devices 22, 322, 422, 522, 1222, and 2222 are:
First determination means 22a, 222a, 222d for determining the operation state of the operation units 4, 304
, 422a, 522a,
Change means 22c, 222f, 222g, 422b, and 422 for changing the output mode of the voice guide according to the result of the determination of the operation state of the operation unit 4 by the first determination means 22a, 222a, 222d, 422a, and 522a. 522b.

  According to the above configuration, the change units 22c, 222f, 222g, 422b, and 522b output the voice in accordance with the determination result of the operation state of the operation unit 4, 304 by the first determination units 22a, 222a, 222d, 422a, and 522a. Change the output mode of the guide. Thus, the voice guide can be adapted to, for example, the degree to which the user is in a hurry. Therefore, the washing machine of the present invention can supply an appropriate voice guide to the user.

In one embodiment of the washing machine,
The first determination unit 22a determines an operation interval of the operation unit 4,
The changing unit 22c performs at least one of a change that increases the speed of the voice guide as the operation interval becomes shorter and a change that simplifies the content of the voice guide as the operation interval becomes shorter. Do.

  According to the above-described embodiment, the change unit 22c is configured to perform a change that increases the speed of the voice guide as the operation interval becomes shorter and a change that simplifies the content of the voice guide as the operation interval becomes shorter. Do at least one. Thereby, when the user operates the operation unit 4 in a hurry, it is possible to prevent the user from feeling that the voice guide is sloppy.

In one embodiment of the washing machine,
The operation unit 4 has a power key 51 for turning on the power,
The first determination means 422a and 522a determine an integrated value of the number of times the power key 51 has been operated,
The changing means 422b and 522b change the frequency and speed of the voice guide so that the age of the voice of the voice guide increases as the integrated value of the number of times of operation of the power key 51 increases, or As the integrated value of the number of times the power key 51 is operated increases, the content of the voice guide is changed so that the user becomes familiar with the voice guide.

  According to the above embodiment, the changing unit 522b changes the frequency and speed of the voice guide so that the age of the voice of the voice guide increases as the integrated value of the number of times the power key 51 is operated increases. This makes it easier for the user to listen to the audio guide and feel the usage date, thereby increasing the attachment to the washing machine.

  Alternatively, the changing unit 422b changes the content of the voice guide so that the user becomes familiar with the voice guide as the integrated value of the number of times the power key 51 is operated increases. This also makes it easier for the user to listen to the audio guide and feel the usage date, thereby increasing the attachment to the washing machine.

In one embodiment of the washing machine,
The operation unit 4 has a power key 51 for turning on the power, and a start key 53 for starting a processing step of the laundry.
The first determination means 222a and 222d determine whether the power key 51 and the start key 53 have been operated,
The control devices 1222 and 2222 are:
A second determining unit 222b that determines whether there is information to be transmitted to the user when the power key 51 is operated;
A first instruction unit 222c for instructing the voice guide output unit 25 to output the information as the voice guide when the information is present;
When the start key 53 is operated during the output of the information as the voice guide, the changing means 222f and 222g determine the speed of the voice guide after the start key 53 is operated by the start key 53. And changing the content of the voice guide after the start key 53 is operated to the content of the voice guide before the start key 53 is operated. At least one of the changes is simplified.

  According to the above-described embodiment, when the start key 53 is operated during the output of information as a voice guide, the changing means 222f and 222g determine the speed of the voice guide after the start key 53 is operated by the start key. A change to increase the speed of the voice guide before the operation of the start key 53, and the content of the voice guide after the start key 53 is operated is simplified than the content of the voice guide before the start key 53 is operated. Make at least one of the changes you make. As a result, the audio guide ends earlier, and the provision of the next audio guide is less likely to be delayed.

In one embodiment of the washing machine,
The operation unit 304 has function keys 60, 364, and 365 for obtaining a specific function, and a voice key 370 for listening to a description of the specific function.
The control device 322 includes:
Third determining means 322a for determining whether or not the function keys 60, 364, 365 have been operated;
Blinking means 322b for blinking the voice key 370 when the function keys 60, 364, 365 are operated;
Fourth determining means 322c for determining whether or not the voice key 370 has been operated during blinking;
A second instruction unit 322d for instructing the voice guide output unit 25 to output a description of the function keys 60, 364, and 365 as the voice guide when the voice key 370 is operated during blinking. .

  According to the above embodiment, the blinking means 322b blinks the voice key 370 when the function keys 60, 364, 365 are operated, so that the user can easily notice the presence of the voice key 370. Is easily operated.

  When the voice key 370 is operated while the voice key 370 is blinking, the second instruction means 322d instructs the voice guide output unit 25 to output a description of the function keys 60, 364, and 365 as a voice guide. As a result, the user's understanding of the function keys 60, 364, and 365 is deepened, and the function keys 60, 364, and 365 are easily used.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Outer box 2 Washing tub 3 Rotary drum 4,304 Operation display part 5 Door 22,222,322,422,522,1222,2222 Control device 22a Operation interval determination means 22b 1st audio guide adjustment means 22c 2nd audio guide adjustment Means 51 Power-on button 52 Power-off button 53 Start / Pause button 54 Unlock button 55 Operation switching key 56 Course selection key 57 Menu key 58 Adjustment key 59 Stroke key 60 Reservation key 61 Rinse once key 222a Power-on button pressing judgment Means 222b Information presence / absence determining means 222c First voice guide instructing means 222d Start / pause button pressing determining means 222e Second voice guide instructing means 222f Third voice guide adjusting means 222g Fourth voice guide adjusting means 322a Function addition key selection determination Means 322b Listening and button blinking means 322c Listening and button pressing determining means 322d Voice guidance instruction means 322e Function addition key blinking means 364 Bath water key 365 Tank clean key 370 Listening button 422a, 522a Integrated value determining means 422b, 522b Voice guide adjustment means

Claims (4)

An operation unit having a power key for turning on the power and a start key for starting a processing step of the laundry;
A voice guide output unit for outputting a voice guide,
With a control device,
The control device includes:
First determining means for determining whether the power key and the start key have been operated ;
Second determining means for determining whether there is information to be transmitted to the user when the power key is operated;
First instruction means for instructing the audio guide output unit to output the information as a first audio guide when the information is present;
A second instructing unit that instructs the voice guide output unit to output a second voice guide associated in advance when the start key is operated;
Has,
The control device includes:
When the start key is operated during the output of the information as the first voice guide, the speed of the first voice guide after the start key is operated is changed to the speed before the start key is operated. The change to be faster than the speed of the first voice guide, and the content of the first voice guide after the start key is operated is simpler than the content of the first voice guide before the start key is operated. At least one of the changes
The washing machine outputs the second voice guide after the output of the first voice guide ends . The washing machine according to claim 1,
The above-mentioned information is information which warns a user that function of the above-mentioned washing machine falls from the last operation state . The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2 ,
The operation unit has a function key for obtaining a specific function and a voice key for listening to a description of the specific function,
The control device includes:
Third determining means for determining whether the function key has been operated;
Flashing means for flashing the voice key when the function key is operated;
Fourth determining means for determining whether or not the voice key has been operated while blinking;
A third instruction means for instructing the voice guide output unit to output a description of the function key as the third voice guide when operated while the voice key is blinking. Machine. The washing machine according to claim 3,
The washing machine is characterized in that the function key blinks during the output of the above description as the third audio guide.