JP7189638B1 - washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of keeping a water tank and a washing tub clean without excessively increasing the cost of electricity. A washing machine includes a water tank, a washing tank rotatably supported in the water tank, a motor 17 for rotationally driving the washing tank, a heater 19 for heating water in the water tank, and a water tank or the washing tank. A sensor 33 for detecting the temperature inside the washing tub and a control unit 21 for controlling the driving of the heater 19 are provided. The first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning in which the temperature in the washing tub is set to a second temperature higher than the first temperature by generating water vapor by the heater 19 are controlled so as to be automatically performed periodically. [Selection drawing] Fig. 4

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a washing machine having a washing tub sterilization function.

As a washing machine having a sterilization function, for example, "a washing and drying machine equipped with a heating means, an air blowing means, a water supply means, a temperature detection means, etc., raises the temperature in the washing tub using the heating means and the air blowing means, and supplies water. A washing/drying machine has been proposed in which water is supplied to a heating unit or a washing tub by a means to humidify the washing tub, thereby controlling washing and sterilization of the washing tub (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2005-253584 A

However, if the user forgets to perform the cleaning and disinfection operation of the washing tub, mold and bacteria will grow in the washing tub. It should be noted that once mold is generated, it is difficult to remove it cleanly.
On the other hand, if the cleaning and sterilization operations are performed automatically after each washing operation, the electricity bill for creating a hot and humid environment in the washing tub increases.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a washing machine capable of keeping the water tank and the washing tub clean without excessively increasing the cost of the electricity bill.

A washing machine according to an aspect of the present invention includes a water tank, a washing tank rotatably supported in the water tank, a motor that rotationally drives the washing tank, a heater that heats water in the water tank, and A sensor for detecting the temperature in the water tank or the washing tub, and a control unit for controlling the driving of the heater, wherein the control unit causes the heater to generate water vapor to raise the temperature in the washing tub to the first. A first steam cleaning at a first temperature and a second steam cleaning at a second temperature higher than the first temperature by generating water vapor in the washing tub by the heater are periodically and automatically performed. to control.

In the washing machine according to the above aspect, the water tank and the washing tub can be kept clean without excessively increasing the cost of the electricity bill.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS It is a model perspective view which shows the external appearance structure of the washing machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a 1st schematic cross section which shows the internal structure of a washing machine. It is a 2nd schematic cross section which shows the internal structure of a washing machine. It is a block diagram which shows a part of structure which concerns on control of a washing machine. 4 is a flow chart of washing processing executed by the control unit of the washing machine. 4 is a flow chart of a first steam cleaning process executed by the control unit of the washing machine; 4 is a flow chart of a second steam cleaning process executed by the control unit of the washing machine; It is a block diagram showing a part of composition concerning control of a washing machine concerning a 2nd embodiment. 4 is a flowchart of cleaning processing executed by the control unit;

<Overview>
A first washing machine according to an aspect of an embodiment includes a water tub, a washing tub rotatably supported in the water tub, a motor for rotationally driving the washing tub, and a heater for heating water in the water tub. a sensor for detecting the temperature in the water tub or the washing tub; and a control unit for controlling the driving of the heater, wherein the control unit causes the heater to generate water vapor to heat the water in the washing tub. A first steam cleaning in which the temperature is set to a first temperature and a second steam cleaning in which the heater generates water vapor to raise the temperature in the washing tub to a second temperature higher than the first temperature are periodically performed. Control to do it automatically. As a result, the washing tub and the water tub can be kept clean because the steam cleaning is automatically performed periodically regardless of whether or not the user operates. In addition, the washing tub and the inside of the tub can be kept clean by performing the first steam cleaning, which has a certain cleaning effect, and the second steam cleaning, which can be expected to have a higher cleaning effect, at predetermined intervals. In addition, "the temperature in the washing tub is the first temperature" and "the temperature in the washing tub is the second temperature" refer to "the temperature in the tub is the first temperature" and "the temperature in the tub is the first temperature". is the second temperature".

A second washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is the first washing machine, wherein the control unit maintains the state of the first temperature in the first steam washing for a first time or more, In the 2-steam cleaning, the state of the second temperature is maintained for a second time or longer, and the second time is longer than the first time. As a result, the first steam cleaning can be completed in a short time. The electricity cost (running cost) can be reduced by performing the second steam cleaning with a relatively high electricity cost less frequently.
A third washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is the first or second washing machine, wherein the control unit performs the first steam cleaning in a first cycle and performs the second steam cleaning in a second cycle. and the second period is longer than the first period. As a result, regardless of the user's operation, the steam cleaning is automatically performed periodically, so that the washing tub and the water tub can be kept clean. The washing tub and the inside of the tub can be kept clean by performing the first steam cleaning, which has a certain cleaning effect, and the second steam cleaning, which is expected to have a higher cleaning effect, at predetermined intervals.

A fourth washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is the third washing machine, wherein the second period is three times or longer than the first period. As a result, electricity costs can be reduced.
A fifth washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is any one of the first to fourth washing machines, wherein the control unit controls water supply and water discharge to perform the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning. In the above, the amount of water in the range of 1.9 L or more and 2.3 L or less is supplied to the water tank. As a result, mold and the like can be suppressed with a small amount of water, and water bills and electricity bills can be reduced. Also, since a small amount of water is heated, the temperature can be raised in a short time.
A sixth washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is any one of the first to fourth washing machines, wherein the control unit controls water supply and water discharge to perform the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning. In the water tank, the amount of water is supplied to the water tank so that the water level in the water tank is in the range of 5 mm or more and 15 mm or less with respect to the upper surface of the heater. As a result, mold and the like can be suppressed with a small amount of water, and water bills and electricity bills can be reduced. Since a small amount of water is heated, the temperature can be raised in a short time. Since the heater is submerged in water, it is possible to prevent the heater from being heated without water and to perform steam cleaning reliably.

A seventh washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is any one of the first to fourth washing machines, wherein the rotation axis of the washing tub is horizontal or inclined within a range of 10 degrees with respect to the horizontal, The control unit controls water supply and water discharge, and supplies an amount of water to the water tank that does not submerge the washing tub during the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning. As a result, mold and the like can be suppressed with a small amount of water, and water bills and electricity bills can be reduced. Since a small amount of water is heated, the temperature can be raised in a short time. Although the amount of water is small, it is possible to prevent the heater from running dry. Since the supplied water does not come into contact with the washing tub, the heat energy during heating is not taken away by the washing tub, and the temperature of the water can be efficiently raised, so that the cost can be suppressed.
An eighth washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is any one of the first to seventh washing machines, wherein the water level of the water tank is detected by a semiconductor water level sensor. Thereby, even if it is a small amount of water, the water supply amount can be detected with high accuracy.
A ninth washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is any one of the first to eighth washing machines, wherein the control unit rotates the washing tub in the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning. Let As a result, the generated water vapor can be uniformly diffused in a short period of time. That is, a uniform moist and heat environment can be realized.

A tenth washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is any one of the first to eighth washing machines, wherein the control unit rotates the washing tub at 300 rpm in the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning. Rotate within the range of 500 rpm or more. This optimizes the time required to achieve a uniform moist heat environment.
An eleventh washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is any one of the first to tenth washing machines, wherein when the control unit starts the washing operation in the first steam washing and the second steam washing, , causes the notification unit to notify the driving. This allows the user to visually recognize that the steam cleaning is automatically started periodically.
A twelfth washing machine according to another aspect of the embodiment is the eleventh washing machine, wherein the control unit causes the notification unit to notify in different notification modes for the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning. As a result, the user can visually recognize that the steam cleaning is automatically started periodically and whether it is the first steam cleaning or the second steam cleaning.

<First Embodiment>
1. General Structure A general structure of the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG.
The washing machine 1 has a steam cleaning function using steam in addition to the washing function (which may include a dehydrating function). Steam cleaning includes first steam cleaning and second steam cleaning, and these cleaning processes are automatically performed periodically. Note that when there is no need to distinguish between the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning, they are simply referred to as steam cleaning.
The washing machine 1 here is of a so-called drum type (horizontal type) in which the central axis of the washing tub 15 is arranged in a horizontal direction. Steam cleaning can also be carried out in a vertical washing machine, but considering the heating efficiency during washing, a drum type washing machine with a high airtightness inside the machine is preferable.

As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped housing 3 . A door 5 for opening and closing the opening of the washing tub 15 is provided on the front surface of the housing 3 .
An interface unit 7 and a detergent dispenser 8 are provided above the door 5 in the housing 3 . Only a part of the surface of the interface unit 7 is exposed on the front upper surface side of the housing 3 . The interface unit 7 has an operation unit 9 for a user to operate the washing operation, and a display unit 11 for displaying operation input contents by the user, operation status (including steam washing operation), and the like.
The operation unit 9 has a power ON/OFF function, an operation start/stop function, a washing course selection function, and the like. Since the steam cleaning is performed automatically, there is no operation (selection) means for the user to operate (select). good.
The display unit 11 includes a notification means 12 for notifying the steam cleaning operation. Here, an LED is used as the notification means 12, lights up during the first steam cleaning operation ("first display"), blinks during the second steam cleaning operation ("second display"), The user can recognize which steam cleaning the washing machine 1 is doing.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, inside the housing 3 are at least a water tank 13 for storing washing water, etc., and a washing tank 15 rotatably supported in the water tank 13 and into which laundry is put. , a motor 17 for rotating the washing tub 15, a heater 19 for heating the water in the tub 13, and a control unit 21 for controlling the rotation of the motor 17 and the heating of the heater 19. . Note that the heater 19 is referred to as a hot water heater 19 for convenience in order to distinguish it from a dry heater which will be described later.
The hot water heater 19 is arranged inside the water tub 13 and outside the washing tub 15, as shown in FIGS. That is, it is provided at the lowest part of the water tub 13 between the peripheral wall of the water tub 13 and the peripheral wall of the washing tub 15 . Thereby, the water in the water tank 13 can be efficiently heated. The hot water heater 19 uses a sheathed heater, and is provided so as to extend in parallel with the rotation axis of the washing tub 15 . The sheathed heater has, for example, a "W" shape when viewed from above.

The washing machine 1 has a drying function in addition to a washing function, a dehydrating function and a washing function (including steam washing). Inside the housing 3, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a blower fan 25, a blower duct 27, a drying heater, a heat exchanger 29, an air filter, and the like are provided.
The steam cleaning function is performed by using the hot water heater 19 to generate steam inside the machine. Steam cleaning will be described later.
Driving power for the motor 17, the hot water heater 19, the blower fan 25, the drying heater, the display section 11, the control unit 21, etc. is supplied from the power supply section 34 in order to perform functions such as washing. The washing operation and the drying operation are performed after the power switch (selection means) of the operation unit 9 is turned on, but the washing function is configured to be able to receive power from the power supply unit 34 even when the power switch is off. It should be noted that the calendar section 45 of the control unit 21 is configured to be supplied with power from the battery 35 during a power outage.
The washing machine 1 is provided with a water level sensor 31, a temperature sensor 33, and the like in order to perform the above functions, at least the washing function and the washing function.
The water level sensor 31 is provided in the interface unit 7, and uses a semiconductor water level sensor here. As a result, even when the water level is low (the amount of water is small), the water level can be detected with high accuracy.
A temperature sensor 33 is provided in the water tub 13 and detects the ambient temperature and water temperature inside the washing tub 15 (or a portion corresponding to the inside of the washing tub 15).

2. Control of Washing Machine 1 (1) Overview Here, control of steam cleaning will be described.
The control unit 21 performs a steam cleaning process in which steam is generated by the hot water heater 19 to clean the water tub 13 and the washing tub 15 . That is, it controls the water supply and drainage to the water tank 13 and the driving (ON or OFF) of the hot water heater 19 . Since the steam cleaning process here is performed while rotating the washing tub 15, the control unit 21 controls the driving of the motor 17 (ON, OFF, number of revolutions).
The steam cleaning includes first steam cleaning in which the temperature of the inside (or a portion corresponding to the inside) of the washing tub 15 is set to the first temperature, and There is a second steam wash with a second temperature higher than the temperature.
More specifically, the temperature inside the washing tub 15 is controlled using a temperature sensor 33 (see FIG. 4) provided in the tub 13, and the temperature in the tub 13 corresponding to the first temperature and the second temperature is controlled. A temperature (for example, a temperature higher than the first temperature or the second temperature) is set in advance by experiments or the like.
Here, the first temperature is the temperature at which mold can be sterilized, and the second temperature is the temperature at which yeast and the like can be removed, in other words, the temperature at which the formation of biofilm by yeast and the like can be prevented or suppressed. As an example, the first temperature is 50°C and the second temperature is 60°C. As a result, it is possible to sterilize the generated mold and prevent (suppress) the formation of biofilm.
The control unit 21 periodically and automatically performs the first steam cleaning process and the second steam cleaning process. Periodic here means before mold cannot be removed by the first steam cleaning treatment, and before biofilm formation is likely to occur in the second steam cleaning treatment. As a result, steam cleaning is performed without user's operation, and the water tub 13 and the washing tub 15 can be kept clean.

The control unit 21 maintains the state of the first temperature for the first time or longer in the first steam cleaning, and maintains the state of the second temperature for the second time or longer in the second steam cleaning. Here, the second time is longer than the first time. The first time is the time during which mold can be removed. The second time is the time during which bacteria (such as yeast) other than yeast and mold that could not be removed by the first steam cleaning can be removed and the formation of biofilms by yeast can be suppressed. It's also time to kill the mold that wasn't there.
The first time includes 0 seconds, and for example, the hot water heater 19 may be turned off when it is detected that the first temperature has been reached. That is, the first time may be 0 seconds.
As an example of the first time and the second time, the first time is 0 seconds and the second time is 10 minutes.
When the first temperature is 50°C, fungi usually die when the temperature reaches 50°C, so fungi can be sterilized effectively and economically. When the second temperature is 60 ° C., by maintaining the 60 ° C. for 10 minutes, it is possible to remove yeast and the like other than mold that could not be washed by the first steam cleaning, and biofilms derived from yeast and the like can be removed. Formation in the tub 13 and/or the washing tub 15 can be prevented. In addition, even if a biofilm is formed, it can effectively kill the mold hidden in the biofilm, preventing the occurrence of black mold and preventing the growth of the biofilm itself by removing yeast etc. You can

The control unit 21 periodically performs the first steam cleaning process and the second steam cleaning process. Specifically, the first steam cleaning process is performed in the first cycle, and the second steam cleaning process is performed in the second cycle. Here, the second period is longer than the first period. The second period is preferably three times or more the first period.
The first cycle is preferably in the range of 3 to 7 days (1 week). If it takes longer than 1 week, even if the first steam cleaning is performed at 50°C, more mold will remain due to adhesion to the laundry, etc. If it is shorter than 3 days, the mold can be sterilized, but it is an economic burden. (Electricity bill) increases.
The second cycle is preferably within the range of 3 weeks or more and 5 weeks or less. This is because if it takes longer than 5 weeks, biofilms are formed over a wide area of the water tank 13 and/or the washing tub 15, and black mold is likely to occur, and if it takes shorter than 3 weeks, biofilm formation can be suppressed, but the economic burden (electricity bill) increases.
As an example, the first cycle is one week, the second cycle is four weeks, and the second cycle is four times the first cycle. Note that when the first period and the second period overlap, the second steam cleaning is given priority.

In controlling water supply and water discharge, the control unit 21 supplies water in a range of, for example, 1.9 L or more and 2.3 L or less for the first steam cleaning process and the second steam cleaning process. As a result, the water used for the steam cleaning can be secured, and the steam cleaning can be reliably performed. In addition, steam can be generated in a short time while suppressing electricity and water bills (cost reduction). In this case, the structure of the water tank 13 is required so that the hot water heater 19 is completely immersed in the supplied water and is completely immersed even after the steam is generated.
The control unit 21 supplies the amount of water such that the water level in the water tank 13 is in the range of 5 mm or more and 15 mm or less with respect to the upper surface of the hot water heater 19 for the first steam cleaning process and the second steam cleaning process. As a result, regardless of the capacity of the water tank 13, it is possible to prevent the hot water heater 19 from heating without water, thereby improving safety.
The control unit 21 supplies an amount of water that does not submerge the washing tub 15 in the first steam cleaning process and the second steam cleaning process. As a result, the heating energy of the hot water heater 19 can be prevented from being conducted to the washing tub 15 side, and steam can be generated effectively and economically.
The control unit 21 controls water supply and water discharge via the water supply valve 36 and the water discharge valve 37 .

The control unit 21 rotates the washing tub 15 in the first steam cleaning process and the second steam cleaning process. As a result, the entire water tank 13 and washing tub 15 can be washed, and the temperatures in the water tub 13 and washing tub 15 can be made uniform, and the sterilization effect can be obtained over a wide range of the water tub 13 and washing tub 15 as a whole. The rotation of the washing tub 15 is preferably in the range of 300 rpm to 500 rpm. As an example, rotate at 400 rpm. Thereby, temperature unevenness in the water tub 13 and the washing tub 15 can be reduced.

(2) Configuration A configuration related to control of the washing machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. Note that FIG. 4 mainly shows the configuration related to the steam cleaning process of the washing machine 1 .

As shown in FIG. 4, signals are input to the control unit 21 from the operation section 9, the water level sensor 31, and the temperature sensor 33 at appropriate times. The control unit 21 timely outputs signals to the motor 17, the hot water heater 19, the display unit 11, the water supply valve 36, and the water discharge valve 37 based on the signals that are input. Also, the control unit 21 receives power supply from the power supply section 34 . Note that the calendar unit 45 receives power supply from the battery 35 when the power supply from the power supply unit 34 is stopped.

The control unit 21 has a control section 41, a storage section 43, a calendar section 45, a timer 47, and the like. The control unit 41 includes a CPU and the like. The control unit 41 executes a corresponding program according to the user's operation of the operation unit 9 . The storage unit 43 includes, for example, EEPROM, RAM, ROM, and the like. The storage unit 43 stores programs, data, and the like for washing, dehydration, drying, and steam cleaning.
The calendar unit 45 has a clock function, can count dates by measuring time, and sets a first timing for performing the first steam cleaning operation and a second timing for performing the second steam operation, which are set in advance. Detected and output to the control unit 41 . Note that, as shown in FIG. 5, the calendar unit 45 here outputs a first signal to the control unit 41 to notify that it is time to perform the first steam cleaning at the first timing, When the time comes, a second signal is output to the controller 41 to notify that it is time to perform the second steam cleaning.

(3) Processing (3-1) Overall Cleaning processing performed by the control unit 21 will be described with reference to FIG.
The cleaning timing will be explained using a specific example. The first steam cleaning treatment is performed once a week, and the second steam cleaning treatment is performed once every four weeks. In this example, the first steam cleaning process is performed on Mondays, May 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th, and the second is on the 24th, which is the fourth Monday in May. It's time to do the steam cleaning process. Although May 24 is the time to perform the first steam cleaning treatment, if the first steam cleaning treatment and the second steam cleaning treatment overlap, only the second steam cleaning treatment is performed.

The calendar unit 45 is configured to be capable of processing independently of the control unit 41 .
When it comes to May 3, the calendar unit 45 determines that it is not the second period (May 24) ("No" in S1), but the first period (May 3) in step S2. ("Yes"), the first signal is output to the control unit 41 (S4). Similarly, on May 10th and 17th, the first signal is output to the control section 41 in step S4 (S4).
When May 24 arrives, the calendar unit 45 outputs a second signal to the control unit 41 (S3) because it is determined to be the second time (May 24) in step S1 ("Yes").
After outputting the second signal in step S3, the process returns to step S1. The calendar unit 45 executes the flow shown in FIG. 5 only once at a fixed time of the day (for example, 16:00). As a result, it is possible to prevent the same signal from being output to the control unit 41, and it is possible to prevent the output of the first signal at the second time (May 24), which overlaps with the first time.

When it is determined in step S11 that there is a signal input (“Yes”), the control unit 41 confirms whether or not washing is being performed. Note that washing here includes washing, dehydration, drying, and the like.
If washing is in progress ("Yes" in S13), wait until the end of washing ("No" in S14). It is determined whether the signal is the first signal or the second signal (S15).
If the determination in step S15 is the first signal ("No"), the first steam cleaning process described later is performed (S16), the input signal is reset (S18), and the process returns to step S11. The resetting of the input signal is a process for preventing the steam cleaning from being performed again after determining that there is an input signal in step S11 after the completion of the steam cleaning process.
If the determination in step S15 is the second signal ("Yes"), the second steam cleaning process, which will be described later, is performed (S17), the input signal is reset (S18), and the process returns to step S11.

(3-2) First Steam Cleaning Process The first steam cleaning process will be described with reference to FIG.
When the first steam cleaning process is started, the control unit 41 causes the notification means 12 of the display unit 11 to start the first display indicating (notifying) that the first steam cleaning is in operation (S21). . Specifically, an LED, which is an example of the notification means 12, is turned on.
The controller 41 supplies a predetermined amount of water into the water tank 13 (S22). Specifically, the water supply valve 36 is opened and closed, and the water level sensor 31 is used.
When the supply of water ends, the control unit 41 turns ON the rotation of the hot water heater 19 and the washing tub 15 (S23) to generate steam, and when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33 reaches a first temperature (for example, 50° C.) ( "Yes" in S24), the rotation of the hot water heater 19 and the washing tub 15 is turned off (S25).
After that, the control unit 41 causes the notification means 12 of the display unit 11 to end the first display (S26), drains the water in the water tank 13 (S27), and returns to step S16 in FIG.

(3-3) Second Steam Cleaning Process The second steam cleaning process will be described with reference to FIG.
When the second steam cleaning process is started, the control unit 41 causes the notification means 12 of the display unit 11 to start a second display indicating (notifying) that the second steam cleaning is in operation (S31). . Specifically, an LED, which is an example of the notification means 12, is blinked.
In step S32, when a predetermined amount of water is supplied to the water tub 13, the hot water heater 19 and the rotation of the washing tub 15 are turned on (S33), steam is generated, and the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33 reaches a second temperature (for example, 60° C.) (“Yes” in S34), the hot water heater 19 is turned off (S35).
In step S36, the timer 47 is started, and the temperature in the washing tub 15 is maintained by repeatedly turning ON/OFF the hot water heater 19 until the second time (for example, 10 minutes) elapses ("No" in S37). (S41), and when the second time elapses ("Yes" in S37), the timer 47 is stopped and the hot water heater 19 and the rotation of the washing tub 15 are turned off (S38).
After that, the control unit 41 causes the notification means 12 of the display unit 11 to end the second display (S39), discharges the water in the water tank 13 (S42), and returns to step S17 in FIG.

<Second embodiment>
The control unit 21 of the first embodiment includes the calendar section 45, and the calendar section 45 outputs the first signal or the second signal to the control section 41 at the first period or the second period. The first steam cleaning process and the second steam cleaning process may be performed periodically and automatically without providing the This form will be described as a second embodiment with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG.

1. Configuration of Control Unit The control unit 121 has a control section 141, a storage section 43, a first timer 145, a second timer 146, a timer 47, etc., as shown in FIG.
The first timer 145 and the second timer 146 correspond to the calendar section 45 in the first embodiment. As in the first embodiment, the control unit 141 includes a CPU and the like, and performs the first steam cleaning process and the second steam cleaning process based on the time measured by the first timer 145 and the second timer 146. and selectively.
The first timer 145 and the second timer 146 receive driving power from the battery 35 when power is not supplied from the power supply unit 34 . The first timer 145 is for notifying when to perform the first steam cleaning process, and the second timer 146 is for notifying when to perform the second steam cleaning process.

2. Steam cleaning process The cleaning process performed by the control unit 121 will be described with reference to FIG.
The cleaning timing will be explained using a specific example. The first steam cleaning treatment is performed once every 168 hours, which corresponds to one week. The second steam cleaning treatment is performed once every 672 hours corresponding to 4 weeks, and the second period is 672 hours, and the second period is 672 hours.

In step S101, the control unit 141 clears the first timer 145 and the second timer 146 to 0, and then starts them.
In step S102, it is determined whether the time measured by the second timer 146 has passed the second period. If the second period has not passed ("No"), the process proceeds to step S110. If two periods have passed (“Yes”), the process proceeds to step S103.
In step S110, it is determined whether the time measured by the first timer 145 has passed the first period. If the first period has not passed ("No"), the process returns to step S102. If one period has passed (“Yes”), the process proceeds to step S111.
In step S111, when washing is in progress (“Yes”), the process proceeds to step S113 after washing is completed, and when washing is not in progress (“No”), the process proceeds to step S113.
In step S113, the first steam cleaning process is performed, the first timer 145 is reset and started (S114), and the process returns to step S102.

In step S102, if the time measured by the second timer 146 has passed the second period ("Yes"), the process proceeds to step S103. In step S103, when washing is in progress (“Yes”), the process proceeds to step S105 after washing is completed, and when washing is not in progress (“No”), the process proceeds to step S105.
In step S105, the second steam cleaning process is performed, the first timer 145 and the second timer 146 are reset and started (S106), and the process returns to step S102.

As described above, the first and second embodiments have been described, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and may be modified as follows. Also, the embodiment may be combined with a modified example, or a combination of modified examples.
In addition, examples not described in the embodiments and modifications, and design changes that do not deviate from the scope of the present invention are also included in the present invention.

<Modification>
1. Washing Machine In the embodiment, the rotation axis of the washing tub 15 is provided in parallel with the horizontal direction, but it may be inclined upward to the front side with respect to the horizontal direction. The inclination angle is in the range of 1 degree or more and 10 degrees or less.
In the embodiment, the washing machine has a drying function, but the washing machine may not have it.
In the embodiment, one LED is used as the notification means for performing the first display or the second display. good too. Also, the notification means may be one that emits a buzzer, music, or the like.
Although the calendar section is not particularly described, instead of the clock function of the calendar section, a wireless communication section may be provided, and the current date and the like may be acquired using WiFi or the like.

2. Number of Steam Cleaning (1) In the embodiment, the steam cleaning includes the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning, but may include, for example, the first steam cleaning, the second steam cleaning and the third steam cleaning. In this case, the third temperature during the third steam cleaning may be set higher than the second temperature. The cycle (timing) of the third steam cleaning may be set longer than the second cycle of the second steam cleaning when the third temperature is higher than the second temperature, and the third temperature is higher than the second temperature. If it is low, it may be set shorter than the second period of the second steam cleaning.

(2) Temperature (2-1) First temperature In the embodiment, the first temperature was constant at 50°C, but from the viewpoint of sterilization of mold, it is preferably 50°C or higher. The first temperature may be appropriately determined within a range in which mold can be killed in relation to the first cycle, the first time, the rotation of the washing tub 15, and the like.
In the embodiment, the first temperature was constant, but the first temperature may be increased over time, for example. Regarding the control of the washing machine 1 (3) Processing” in the first embodiment, the first temperature of the first steam cleaning performed on May 3 is set to 50 ° C., and the first temperature is set to 50 ° C. The first temperature of the first steam cleaning performed on the 17th may be set to 55°C, and the first temperature of the first steam cleaning performed on the 17th may be set to 60°C.
(2-2) Second temperature In the embodiment, the second temperature was 60°C. is preferred. However, considering safety, a temperature of 70° C. or less is preferable.
The second temperature may be appropriately determined within a range in which biofilm formation can be suppressed in relation to the second period, the second time period, the rotation of the washing tub 15, and the like.

(3) Time (3-1) First time In the embodiment, when the first temperature is 50° C., the first time is 0 seconds. It may be seconds (20 minutes) or more. As a result, fungi can be effectively killed.
As a guideline, when the washing tub is rotated and the first temperature is 50° C. or higher, the first time is 0 seconds or longer, and when the first temperature is 45° C., the first time is 3 minutes or longer.
Note that the first time may be appropriately determined within a range in which mold can be exterminated in relation to the first temperature, the first cycle, the rotation of the washing tub 15, and the like.
(3-2) Second Time In the embodiment, the second time is 10 minutes when the washing tub is rotated and the second temperature is 60° C. However, when the washing tub 15 is not rotated, the second time is may be 30 minutes or more. As a result, fungi can be effectively killed. However, in consideration of power consumption, it is preferable to rotate the washing tub 15 so that the second temperature is within a range of 60° C. or higher and the second time is shortened.
It should be noted that the second time may be appropriately determined within a range in which biofilm formation can be suppressed in relation to the second temperature, the second period, the rotation of the washing tub 15, and the like.

(4) Cycle (4-1) First cycle In the embodiment, when the first temperature is 50°C, the first cycle is one week. For temperatures that are capable of killing mold, the first cycle may be less than one week, such as three days. Conversely, if the first temperature is higher than 50° C., the first cycle may be longer than one week, eg ten days.
Note that the first cycle may be appropriately determined within a range in which mold can be exterminated in relation to the first temperature, the first time, the rotation of the washing tub 15, and the like.
Although the first period is constant in the embodiment, the period of the first period may be shortened over time, for example. Regarding the control of the washing machine 1 (3) Treatment” in the first embodiment, the first steam cleaning after the second steam cleaning is performed 10 days after the second steam cleaning, A second cleaning may be performed 7 days after the first steam cleaning, and a third cleaning may be performed 4 days after the second steam cleaning.
(4-2) Second cycle In the embodiment, when the second temperature is 60 ° C., the second cycle is 4 weeks, but for example, the second temperature is lower than 60 ° C. Biofilm formation can be suppressed, the second cycle may be shorter than 4 weeks, for example 3 weeks. Conversely, if the second temperature is higher than 60° C., the second cycle may be longer than 4 weeks, for example 5 weeks.
Note that the second period may be appropriately determined within a range in which biofilm formation can be suppressed in relation to the second temperature, the second time, the rotation of the washing tub 15, and the like.

(5) Rotation of Washing Tub In the embodiment, the rotation of the washing tub 15 is the same between the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning, but may be different. Further, although the rotation of the washing tub 15 in the first steam cleaning was constant, for example, the rotation speed may be increased or decreased as time elapses.
(6) Amount of Water Supply In the embodiment, the same amount of water is supplied for the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning, but different amounts may be used. In this case, since the second temperature of the second steam cleaning is higher than the first temperature and the second time is longer than the first time, the amount of water during the second steam cleaning is greater than the amount of water during the first steam cleaning. can be increased. This makes it possible to optimize the amount of water used and reduce the amount of water used for steam cleaning.

1 washing machine 10 housing 13 water tub 15 washing tub 17 motor 19 heater 21 control unit

Claims (11)

a water tank;
a washing tub rotatably supported in the tub;
a motor for rotating the washing tub;
a heater for heating the water in the water tank;
a sensor that detects the temperature in the water tank or the washing tub;
a control unit that controls driving of the heater;
with
The control unit generates steam by the heater to set the temperature in the washing tub to a first temperature, and performs a first steam cleaning, and the heater generates steam to set the temperature in the washing tub to the first temperature. Control so that the second steam cleaning with a second temperature higher than the second temperature is automatically performed periodically ,
the control unit performs the first steam cleaning in a first cycle and the second steam cleaning in a second cycle;
said second period is longer than said first period
washing machine. a water tank;
a washing tub rotatably supported in the tub;
a motor for rotating the washing tub;
a heater for heating the water in the water tank;
a sensor that detects the temperature in the water tank or the washing tub;
a control unit that controls driving of the heater;
with
The control unit generates steam by the heater to set the temperature of the inside of the washing tub to a first temperature for a first steam cleaning, and the heater generates steam to bring the temperature of the inside of the washing tub to the first temperature. Control so that the second steam cleaning with a second temperature higher than the second temperature is automatically performed periodically ,
The control unit maintains the state of the first temperature in the first steam cleaning for a first time or longer, and maintains the state of the second temperature in the second steam cleaning for a second time or longer,
the second time is longer than the first time;
the control unit performs the first steam cleaning in a first cycle and the second steam cleaning in a second cycle;
said second period is longer than said first period
washing machine. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the second cycle is three times or more as long as the first cycle. 4. The water tank according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the control unit controls water supply and water discharge, and in the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning, water is supplied to the water tank in an amount of 1.9 L or more and 2.3 L or less. or the washing machine according to item 1. The control unit controls water supply and drainage, and in the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning, the water level in the water tank is in the range of 5 mm or more and 15 mm or less with respect to the upper surface of the heater. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein water is supplied. The rotation axis of the washing tub is horizontal or inclined within 10 degrees with respect to the horizontal,
The control unit controls water supply and drainage, and supplies water to the water tank in a range that does not submerge the washing tub in the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning. a washing machine as described above. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the water level of said water tank is detected by a semiconductor type water level sensor. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the control unit rotates the washing tub during the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the control unit rotates the washing tub within a range of 300 rpm or more and 500 rpm or less in the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 9 , wherein in the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning, the control unit causes a notification unit to notify the operation when the cleaning operation is started. 11. The washing machine according to claim 10 , wherein the control unit causes the notification unit to notify in different notification modes for the first steam cleaning and the second steam cleaning.

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