JP7361312B2 - dishwasher - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to a cleaning device for cleaning an object to be cleaned.

BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, built-in dishwashers used in system kitchens have mainly had a structure in which a washing tank having a front door that can be opened and closed is fixed inside a housing.

However, in recent years, dishwashers in which tableware is stored and washed by pulling out a washing tank having an upper opening from a housing have become mainstream (for example, see Patent Document 1).

The dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a washing tank having an opening above and accommodating tableware, a casing that supports the washing tank so that it can be taken in and out in the front and back direction, and a case provided outside the washing tank. , a detergent inlet for injecting detergent into the cleaning tank, and an inlet path for communicating the detergent inlet and the cleaning tank. The detergent is then introduced from a detergent inlet provided at a location independent of the cleaning tank. Thereby, detergent can be reliably poured into the washing tank regardless of the size and shape of the tableware placed in the washing tank.

Further, a dishwasher including a detergent storage container in a washing tank is disclosed (for example, see Patent Document 2).

The dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 2 has a detergent container to which the detergent container can be attached detachably or integrally to the inner wall of a washing tank. The detergent storage container is installed at approximately the same height as the water supply port for cleaning water provided on the inner wall of the cleaning tank, or at a position above the water supply port. This prevents the detergent from spilling, flowing out, or solidifying before starting to wash the dishes, etc., making it possible to effectively wash the dishes.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-135650 Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-225087

However, in the configuration of the dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 1, when detergent is introduced from the upper opening, the detergent simply flows into the washing tank. In other words, conventional dishwashers cannot keep detergent stocked. Therefore, when using a dishwasher, the user must put the necessary amount of detergent into the washing tank each time.

Therefore, it is conceivable to detachably attach a detergent storage container within the cleaning tank as disclosed in Patent Document 2. However, when the cleaning tank is taken in and out or the detergent storage container is attached or removed, the liquid detergent stored in the detergent storage container may spill out, or it may scatter and solidify on the detergent storage container or surrounding components. The present inventors have recognized the problem that

The present invention solves the above-mentioned conventional problems, and aims to improve the convenience of a cleaning device.

In order to solve the above problems, a cleaning device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a housing, a cleaning tank provided in the housing for accommodating an object to be cleaned, and a container for storing liquid detergent supplied to the cleaning tank. Equipped with a detergent tank. In order to suppress the waves that occur in the liquid detergent, a floating body that floats within the liquid detergent is provided in the detergent tank.

According to the present disclosure, the convenience of the cleaning device can be improved.

FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the dishwasher in a state in which the washing tank is pulled out from the housing in Embodiment 1. FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing a state in which a detergent tank is being stored or pulled out. FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing a state in which a detergent tank is stored. FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of another example of the dishwasher in a state in which the washing tank in Embodiment 1 is pulled out from the housing. FIG. 7 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher with a detergent tank accommodated in a second embodiment. It is a schematic side view of the dishwasher in the state which pulled out the washing tank from the housing|casing in Embodiment 2. FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. FIG. 3 is a partially enlarged view showing a state in which the detergent tank is housed in the detergent tank storage section. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of a detergent tank. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of a detergent tank. It is a figure which shows the lower surface of the cover of a detergent tank. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the relationship between an arm and a rotation axis. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of an arm and a rotation shaft. It is a diagram showing the configuration of a control device for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the viscosity of liquid detergent measured by a rotational viscometer. It is a flow chart which shows the procedure of the control method of the dishwasher concerning an embodiment. It is a flow chart which shows the procedure of the control method of the dishwasher concerning an embodiment. It is a figure which shows typically another example of a detergent tank. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a cross section of a foreign matter trapping section. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a state in which a foreign matter capturing section is attached to a detergent discharge port. It is a figure which shows typically the cross section when a detergent tank is accommodated in a detergent tank storage part.

(Embodiment 1)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher in a state in which a washing tank 1 is pulled out from a housing 2 according to the first embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of a washing tank 1 of a dishwasher pulled out from a housing 2 of the dishwasher.

Further, the dishwasher of the first embodiment is a built-in dishwasher installed in, for example, a system kitchen.

In the first embodiment, as shown in the figure, the front direction is the direction in which the door body 3 and the cleaning tank 1 are pulled out, and the rear direction is the direction in which the cleaning tank 1 is stored and the door body 3 is closed. . Further, in the following description, the opening 1a side of the washing tank 1 of the dishwasher is referred to as the upper side, and the opposite side is referred to as the lower side, and the right side as viewed from the front of the door body 3 is referred to as the right side, and the left side as the left side.

As shown in FIG. 1, the dishwasher of the first embodiment includes a housing 2, a cleaning tank 1, a side wall 12, a detergent tank 15, a control device 19, and a cleaning tank 1 disposed inside the housing 2. It has a door body 3 that opens and closes the opening.

The washing tank 1 has an opening 1a at the top, and a basket 7 for storing tableware 8 is placed inside. The cleaning tank 1 includes a first rail 5 fixed below. On the other hand, the casing 2 includes a second rail 6 fixed to the inner inner surface. The first rail 5 is movably supported by the second rail 6 of the housing 2 . Thereby, the cleaning tank 1 is supported so as to be freely inserted into and taken out from the housing 2 in the front-rear direction (left-right direction on the paper of FIG. 1).

A flat part 23 is provided in front of the opening 1a, which is the outer front upper part of the cleaning tank 1. An operation section 24, a display section 25, and the like are arranged on the plane section 23. The operation unit 24 is used to set the washing course of the dishwasher, turn on/off the power, etc., by a user's operation. The display unit 25 displays the cleaning status, operating status, time, etc. Further, on the back side of the plane section 23 where the operation section 24 and the display section 25 are arranged, an operation display board (not shown) for controlling the operations thereof is arranged.

The side walls 12 are arranged on both sides between the cleaning tank 1 and the door body 3. The side wall 12 movably connects the cleaning tank 1 and the door body 3 together. At this time, the dishwasher has a front space 13 defined by the front side of the washing tank 1, the rear side of the door body 3, the side wall 12, and the plane part 23.

The door body 3 is provided with a handle 4 provided above so as to protrude forward. The handle 4 is grasped by a user and used to take the cleaning tank 1 in and out of the housing 2.

Further, in the dishwasher of the first embodiment, wash water for washing tableware in the washing tank 1 is supplied through the following route. Specifically, first, cleaning water such as tap water is supplied from a branch faucet or the like on the system kitchen (not shown) to a water supply path such as a water supply hose. The supplied cleaning water passes through a water supply path and is supplied to the cleaning tank 1 at a required water level and in a required amount by a water supply pump, a water supply valve, etc. (not shown). Water is supplied into the cleaning tank 1 through the path configured as described above.

A circulation pump 9 is arranged outside and below the cleaning tank 1 . The circulation pump 9 circulates the cleaning water supplied into the cleaning tank 1 through a circulation path, and injects the cleaning water from the cleaning nozzle 11. The tableware 8 can be washed with the sprayed washing water. Note that the heater 10 that heats the cleaning water is also arranged near the bottom of the cleaning tank 1.

Further, the dishwasher of the first embodiment includes a drainage path for draining washing water from the washing tank 1. The drainage route includes a drainage pump, a drainage hose, etc. (not shown). When the washing and rinsing of the tableware 8 is completed, the drainage pump is driven, and the washing water is drained to the outside via the drainage hose. In other words, the drainage path is configured such that the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 1 can be drained to the sink of the system kitchen.

A detergent tank storage part 14 in which a detergent tank 15 is accommodated in a manner that the detergent tank 15 can be taken out and taken out is arranged in a front space part 13 that is the outer front side of the cleaning tank 1 . The detergent tank accommodating portion 14 is formed on one side of the side wall 12 by welding, screwing, or integrally molding with the side wall 12. Note that the detergent tank storage section 14 may be provided in the front of the cleaning tank 1.

As described above, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 is configured.

Next, the structure around the detergent tank 15 of the dishwasher will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing a state in which the detergent tank 15 is being stored or pulled out. FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing a state in which the detergent tank 15 is housed.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the detergent tank storage section 14 has a hollow space. Thereby, the detergent tank 15 is stored in and out of the space of the detergent tank storage section 14 at will. The detergent tank 15 is housed so that it can be taken in and out, for example, in the left-right direction (sideways) when viewed from the front (the front side of the door body 3).

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the detergent tank storage section 14 is located approximately below (including below) the flat section 23 (the operating section 24 or the display section 25), for example, on the right side from the center of the cleaning tank 1. The detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank 15.

Although FIGS. 2 and 3 show an example of a configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out to the right from the detergent tank storage section 14, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the detergent tank storage section 14 and the detergent tank 15 may be arranged in positions symmetrically opposite to those in FIGS. 2 and 3. In this case, a configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out to the left from the detergent tank storage section 14 is desirable.

With the above configuration, when the cleaning tank 1 is completely housed in the housing 2, the detergent tank 15 is not noticeable. Therefore, the dishwasher can be configured with a simple design. Furthermore, the space (front space 13) for accommodating the detergent tank 15 at the front outside of the cleaning tank 1 can be effectively utilized.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, when the detergent tank 15 is pulled forward at least a distance a (dotted line arrow in FIG. 1), the detergent tank 15 is moved from the detergent tank storage part 14 in the left-right direction. It is configured so that it can be put in and taken out freely. Note that the distance a indicates the shortest distance between the mating surface of the back surface of the door body 3 and the frontmost surface of the casing 2 and the surface of the detergent tank storage section 14 on the cleaning tank 1 side. That is, the distance a indicates a state in which at least the entire detergent tank accommodating portion 14 is pulled out from the frontmost portion of the housing 2 to the front side.

With the above configuration, the detergent tank 15 can only be taken in and out when the cleaning tank 1 is pulled forward by a predetermined distance (distance a) or more. Therefore, the user can easily take in and out the detergent tank 15 by utilizing the space in front of the cleaning tank 1 that houses the detergent tank 15 and the space in the lateral direction when the cleaning tank 1 is pulled out from the housing 2. . Note that the distance a is not particularly limited as long as it is a distance that allows the detergent tank 15 to be taken in and taken out in the left-right direction.

Furthermore, as described above, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 includes the operating section 24 provided at the upper front outside of the washing tank 1, through which the user sets the washing course, turning on/off the power, and the like. Thereby, the user can operate the operating unit 24 with one hand from the front and above of the cleaning tank 1, for example. At this time, the user can simultaneously take in and out the detergent tank 15 in the left and right directions with the other hand. As a result, the user's work efficiency can be improved.

Further, the detergent tank 15 is configured of, for example, a bottle-shaped container in which liquid detergent is stored. Specifically, the detergent tank 15 includes a detergent tank detergent outlet 15c, a detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, a detergent container lid part 15e, and the like.

The detergent tank detergent outlet 15c, the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, and the detergent container lid 15e are integrally formed and configured to be detachable from the detergent tank 15. Therefore, when the detergent container lid 15e is removed from the detergent tank 15, the integrated detergent tank detergent outlet 15c and the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d can also be removed from the detergent tank 15 at the same time. Note that the tip of the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d that sucks the liquid detergent extends to the vicinity of the bottom surface of the detergent tank 15. Thereby, the liquid detergent can be sucked from the detergent tank 15 until it is almost completely exhausted. Therefore, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 can be used efficiently without waste.

Furthermore, when replenishing the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent, the user first removes the detergent tank 15 from the detergent tank storage section 14 . Then, the user removes the detergent container lid part 15e from the detergent tank 15. Thereby, the user can easily replenish the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent.

With the above-described configuration of the detergent tank 15, liquid detergent can be supplied and stocked in the detergent tank 15 outside the cleaning tank 1. Therefore, solidification of the detergent in the detergent tank 15 due to humidity or dryness in the washing tank 1 during washing can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the detergent tank 15 is not provided, the volume of the cleaning tank 1 can be increased. Furthermore, the user can easily attach and detach the detergent tank 15. That is, conventionally, a control board such as an operation section and a display section is disposed between the cleaning tank and the door body, and the space other than the board is a dead space. Therefore, in this embodiment, the detergent tank 15 is arranged in the dead space side by side with the substrate in the left-right direction. As a result, dead space can be effectively utilized and the detergent tank 15 is not disposed within the cleaning tank 1, so that the volume of the cleaning tank 1 can be increased compared to a conventional cleaning tank.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c of the detergent tank 15 has a convex portion 15f that protrudes in a convex shape to the left side from the detergent container lid portion 15e. On the other hand, the detergent tank accommodating portion 14 has a recess 14c with which a convex portion 15f of the detergent tank detergent outlet 15c engages. Then, the concave portion 14c of the detergent tank storage portion 14 is engaged with the convex portion 15f of the detergent container lid portion 15e. Thereby, storage of the detergent tank 15 into the detergent tank storage section 14 is completed.

When the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank storage section 14 by fitting the concave portion 14c and the convex portion 15f, the liquid detergent is discharged from the detergent tank detergent outlet 15c to the detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path 14b. A route for transport is configured. Furthermore, the fitting between the convex portion 15f and the concave portion 14c allows stable storage of the detergent tank 15 in the detergent tank storage portion 14.

Further, the detergent tank storage section 14 includes a detergent tank storage section detergent discharge port 14a provided in the recess 14c. One end of the detergent tank storage part-side detergent discharge path 14b is arranged and connected to the detergent tank storage part detergent discharge port 14a. On the other hand, a detergent pump 16 is connected to the other end of the detergent discharge path 14b on the detergent tank storage section side. Further, a cleaning tank side detergent discharge path 18 is connected between the detergent pump 16 and a cleaning tank detergent discharge port 17 (see FIG. 1) provided on the front surface of the cleaning tank 1. In other words, the detergent pump 16 is disposed in the middle of the detergent injection path between the other end of the detergent tank housing side detergent discharge path 14b and the cleaning tank side detergent discharge path 18.

As described above, the detergent tank 15 has a detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c for discharging liquid detergent in the detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path 14b. The detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path 14b is connected to the detergent tank storage section 14. That is, when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14, the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c is configured to be connected to the detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path 14b.

Further, the control device 19 is arranged below the front surface of the cleaning tank 1, as shown in FIG. The control device 19 controls, for example, the circulation pump 9, the drainage pump, the water supply pump (water supply valve), the detergent pump 16, and the like.

Specifically, the control device 19 controls the driving rotation speed, driving time, etc. of the detergent pump 16. Thereby, when cleaning tableware 8 and the like, a necessary amount of liquid detergent is sucked from the detergent tank 15. The sucked liquid detergent is transferred to the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c, the detergent tank storage detergent discharge port 14a, the detergent tank storage detergent discharge path 14b, the detergent pump 16, and the cleaning tank detergent discharge path. 18, the cleaning tank detergent is supplied into the cleaning tank 1 via the outlet 17 in order. In other words, the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 can be transferred and supplied to the cleaning tank 1.

As described above, the area around the detergent tank 15 of the dishwasher is configured, and liquid detergent is supplied into the washing tank 1.

Below, the configuration of a dishwasher in another example of the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of another example of the dishwasher in which the washing tank 1 in the first embodiment is pulled out from the housing 2.

As shown in FIG. 4, the dishwasher according to another example has a transparent portion 15a provided on at least a portion of the side surface of the detergent tank 15. The transparent portion 15a allows the user to visually check the amount of liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank storage section 14. The transparent portion 15a further includes a scale 15b indicating the amount of liquid detergent. Thereby, even when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14, the user can visually check the amount of detergent in the detergent tank 15 from the side through the transparent part 15a. Therefore, the user can visually estimate how much liquid detergent is being used and when to replenish it. As a result, the user can easily pull out the detergent tank 15 and replenish the liquid detergent at an appropriate timing.

(Embodiment 2)
Hereinafter, a schematic configuration of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIG. 5 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher in which the detergent tank 15 according to the second embodiment is housed. FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of the dishwasher in a state in which the washing tank 1 is pulled out from the housing 2 according to the second embodiment.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the dishwasher of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the arrangement positions of the operation section 24 and the display section 25, and the configuration of the handle 4. Since the other configurations are the same as those in Embodiment 1, the explanation of the overlapping configurations will be omitted.

That is, as shown in FIG. 5, in the dishwasher of the second embodiment, the operating section 24 and the display section 25 are arranged at the upper front surface of the door body 3. The handle 4 is formed in a shape concave toward the inside of the door body 3. As in the first embodiment, the operating section 24 is operated by the user to set the cleaning course and turn on/off the power. The display unit 25 displays the cleaning status, operating status, time, etc.

The operating section 24 and the display section 25 of the second embodiment are provided on the front side of the door body 3 at the outer front upper part of the cleaning tank 1 . As a result, as in the first embodiment, the user can simultaneously operate the detergent tank 15 from the left and right directions of the detergent tank storage section 14 while operating the operating section 24 from the front and above of the cleaning tank 1. Can be put in and taken out.

Note that, as shown in FIG. 6, either the operating section 24 or the display section 25 is arranged on the flat section 23 as in the first embodiment, and the other of the display section 25 or the operating section 24 is placed on the door body. It may also be placed at the upper front of 3.

Further, the content described in Embodiment 1 and the content described in Embodiment 2 may be freely combined within the described range to configure a dishwasher. This increases the degree of freedom and versatility of design.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. The dishwasher according to Embodiment 3 differs from Embodiments 1 and 2 in the configurations of the detergent tank storage section and the detergent tank. Other configurations and operations are similar to those in the first or second embodiment. Mainly the points different from Embodiments 1 and 2 will be explained.

This is an example of a floating body floating in the liquid detergent in order to suppress waves generated in the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 when the detergent tank 30 is taken in and out of the cleaning tank 1 or the housing 2. A float 34 is provided within the detergent tank 30. The float 34 is pivotally supported via the arm 33 on a rotation shaft provided on the lid of the detergent tank 30. A magnetic body 35 is provided on the float 34 .

The detergent tank 30 is stored in a detergent tank storage section 40 so as to be freely put in and taken out. When cleaning is started with the detergent tank 30 stored in the detergent tank storage part 40, an appropriate amount of liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is sucked out by the detergent pump 16, and the detergent discharge path on the detergent tank storage part side is sucked out by the detergent pump 16. 43 and the detergent discharge path 18 on the washing tank side.

A magnetic sensor 41 for detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 is provided on the side surface of the detergent tank storage section 40 . When the magnetic sensor 41 detects the magnetism of the magnetic body 35, it is detected that the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 40.

8 to 11 are schematic front views of the dishwasher according to the third embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. FIG. 9 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 40 when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. FIG. 11 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 40 while liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30.

The float 34 is pivotally supported via an arm 33 on a rotation shaft 32 provided on a cover 31 that covers the opening of the detergent tank 30 . As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30, the float 34 and the arm 33 hang vertically downward due to their own weight. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the float 34 floats up according to the liquid level of the liquid detergent, and the arm 33 rotates upward about the rotation shaft 32. do. By detecting the position of the magnetic body 35 with the magnetic sensor 41, the level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 can be detected. Further, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, when the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 40, the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 is not detected by the magnetic sensor 41, so that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section. 40 is not stored.

The magnetic sensor 41 may be, for example, a plurality of Hall elements provided near positions of the magnetic body 35 corresponding to a plurality of liquid levels of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30. Thereby, the liquid level of the liquid detergent can be detected more accurately. The magnetic sensor 41 may be a sensor capable of detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 using any method such as a magnetoresistive element or a magnetic impedance element.

The magnetic sensor 41 may be provided on a side surface of the detergent tank storage section 40 that is far from the control device 50. Thereby, the influence of the magnetic field generated in the electric circuit of the control device 50 can be reduced, so that the detection accuracy of the magnetic sensor 41 can be improved.

A detergent discharge port 37 is provided at the lowest end of the back side of the detergent tank 30 in the loading/unloading direction. A detergent receiving port 42 is provided in the detergent tank storage part 40 at a position where the detergent discharge port 37 of the detergent tank 30 contacts when the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage part 40. When the detergent pump 16 operates, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 flows into the cleaning tank 1 via the detergent discharge port 37, the detergent intake port 42, the detergent tank storage side detergent discharge path 43, and the cleaning tank side detergent discharge path 18. supplied to The inner bottom surface 36 of the detergent tank 30 is sloped downward toward the detergent discharge port 37.

FIG. 12 is a partially enlarged view showing a state in which the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 40. FIG. 12A is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 30 and the detergent tank storage section 40 when the liquid level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 is low. FIG. 12(b) is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 30 and the detergent tank storage section 40 when the liquid level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 is high. By detecting the position of the magnetic body 35 using the magnetic sensor 41, the liquid level of the liquid detergent can be detected.

FIG. 13 schematically shows a cross section of the detergent tank 30. When the cleaning tank 1 is pulled out from the housing 2 or the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage part 40 while the liquid detergent 38 is stored in the detergent tank 30, waves are generated in the liquid detergent 38. do. In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a float 34 made of a material that floats on the liquid detergent 38 is provided to cancel out these waves. Experiments by the present inventors have shown that the float 34 floats on the liquid surface of the liquid detergent 38 and cancels the waves, thereby suppressing the waves generated in the liquid detergent 38 compared to the case where the float 34 is not provided. It has become clear. This prevents liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 30 or from adhering to surrounding components and solidifying when using the dishwasher or refilling the detergent tank 30 with liquid detergent. can.

The float 34 may be made of thermoplastic resin, metal, or the like. If the float 34 is made of metal, a cavity may be provided inside to allow the float 34 to float on the liquid detergent. The float 34 and the arm 33 may be formed integrally, or may be formed separately and joined. The arm 33 may be removably supported on a rotation shaft 32 provided on the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30. In this case, the user can remove the arm 33 and float 34 from the cover 31 and wash them. The arm 33 may be formed integrally with the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30.

FIG. 14 schematically shows a cross section of the detergent tank 30. The cover 31 of the detergent tank 30 is provided with an atmosphere opening 39 that communicates with the outside. The cover 31 is provided to airtightly and liquid-tightly cover the opening of the detergent tank 30, so when the liquid detergent 38 is discharged from the detergent tank 30, the inside of the detergent tank 30 becomes negative pressure, and the liquid detergent 38 There is a possibility that the discharge will not proceed smoothly. By providing the atmosphere opening port 39, when the liquid detergent 38 is discharged from the detergent tank 30, outside air can flow into the detergent tank 30 from the atmosphere opening port 39, so that the inside of the detergent tank 30 becomes negative pressure. can be prevented. Thereby, the reliability of the amount of liquid detergent 38 supplied from the detergent tank 30 into the cleaning tank 1 can be improved.

When the liquid detergent 38 adheres to the atmosphere opening 39 and solidifies, the atmosphere opening 39 is blocked and the function of allowing outside air to flow into the detergent tank 30 is reduced, causing an appropriate amount of liquid detergent to flow from the detergent tank 30 into the cleaning tank 1. There is a possibility that the liquid detergent 38 cannot be supplied. In order to solve this problem, in the dishwasher of this embodiment, the atmosphere opening 39 is provided in the cover 31 above the movement range of the float 34. As a result, even when the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 in the detergent tank 30 is high and the liquid detergent 38 is likely to jump from the liquid surface and hit the atmosphere opening 39, the float 34 is moved to the liquid level directly below the atmosphere opening 39. Since the liquid detergent 38 floats up and cancels the waves of the liquid detergent 38, it is possible to prevent the liquid detergent 38 from splashing onto the atmosphere opening 39.

FIG. 15 shows the bottom surface of the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30. FIG. 15(a) is a bottom view of the cover 31. FIG. FIG. 15(b) is a perspective view of the bottom surface of the cover 31. FIG. FIG. 15(c) is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the atmosphere opening port 39. In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a protrusion 39a that protrudes from the lower surface of the cover 31 toward the inside of the detergent tank 30 is provided near the atmosphere opening 39. The protrusion 39a functions as a wall to protect the liquid detergent 38 splashed from the liquid surface from coming into contact with the atmosphere opening 39. Thereby, the liquid detergent 38 can be further prevented from splashing onto the atmosphere opening 39. The protrusion 39a may be formed integrally with the cover 31, or may be formed separately from the cover 31 and attached to the cover 31.

The protrusion 39a is provided so that at least a portion of the float 34 or the arm 33 approaches or comes into contact with the protrusion 39a when the float 34 is moving upward. When the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 in the detergent tank 30 is high, there is a high possibility that the liquid detergent 38 will hit the atmosphere opening port 39, but the float 34 will rise to the surface of the liquid detergent 38 and the float 34 or the arm 33 Since the gap between and the protrusion 39a is narrowed, the possibility that the liquid detergent 38 will infiltrate through the gap and hit the atmosphere opening 39 can be reduced. The protrusion 39a may be provided so as to be close to or in contact with at least a portion of another member that moves together with the float 34 when the float 34 moves upward.

The protrusion 39a has a shape that surrounds the atmosphere opening 39, and a cutout 39b is provided in a part of the protrusion 39a. Thereby, when the liquid detergent 38 comes into contact with the protrusion 39a, it is possible to prevent a film from being formed at the opening of the protrusion 39a and blocking the atmosphere opening 39 with the film.

In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a washing tank 1 is provided in a housing 2 such that it can be taken in and out. Therefore, each time the cleaning tank 1 is moved in and out of the housing 2 in order to take out and take out objects such as tableware, the liquid detergent 38 shakes in the direction of loading and unloading the cleaning tank 1, creating waves. Therefore, the notch 39b may be provided in a direction different from the direction in which the cleaning tank 1 is taken in and taken out. This can prevent the liquid detergent 38 from penetrating into the protrusion 39a through the notch 39b and hitting the atmosphere opening 39 due to the waves of the liquid detergent 38 generated when the cleaning tank 1 is taken in and out.

In the dishwasher of this embodiment, the detergent tank 30 is provided in a manner that it can be taken in and out of the detergent tank storage section 40 at will. Therefore, each time the detergent tank 30 is taken in and out of the detergent tank storage section 40 to replenish the liquid detergent, the liquid detergent 38 swings in the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is taken in and taken out, creating waves. Therefore, the notch 39b may be provided in a direction different from the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is taken in and taken out. This can prevent the liquid detergent 38 from penetrating into the protrusion 39a from the notch 39b and hitting the atmosphere opening 39 due to the waves of the liquid detergent 38 generated when the detergent tank 30 is taken in and out.

The notch 39b may be provided on the side of the rotation shaft 32 on which the arm 33 is supported. When the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 is high, the float 34 floats to the liquid surface and the arm 33 moves upward, so the space between the protrusion 39a and the rotation shaft 32 is It is separated from the liquid detergent 38 by a shaft 32 and an arm 33. Thereby, the liquid detergent 38 can be prevented from entering the inside of the protrusion 39a from the notch 39b and hitting the atmosphere opening 39.

FIG. 16 schematically shows the relationship between the arm 33 and the rotation shaft 32. The rotation shaft 32 has a cylindrical shape. The arm 33 has a fitting portion 33a at its upper end that fits into the cylindrical rotation shaft 32. The fitting portion 33a has a cylindrical shape in which a part of the angular range of the side surface is notched in the axial direction. By providing the cutout portion 33b, the arm 33 can be removed from the rotating shaft 32 and cleaned, so liquid detergent may adhere and harden between the fitting portion 33a and the rotating shaft 32, and the float 34 from malfunctioning. Moreover, the inside of the detergent tank 30 can be kept clean. Even when manufacturing a dishwasher, the arm 33 can be easily attached to the rotating shaft 32, so manufacturing costs can be reduced.

The level of liquid detergent can also be detected by moving a float along a guide installed in the vertical direction, and there is a possibility that a wave-dampening effect can be obtained; however, using a liquid detergent with high viscosity In this case, the sliding resistance between the guide and the float increases, which may make it difficult for the float to follow changes in the liquid level. Furthermore, when the liquid level of the liquid detergent decreases, the liquid detergent adhering between the guide and the float may solidify and the float may not move. Furthermore, if the depth of the detergent tank is shallow, the movement range of the float is narrow, making it impossible to precisely detect the liquid level. According to the configuration of the present embodiment, the arm 33 is pivotally supported by the rotation shaft 32 provided above the liquid level of the liquid detergent, and the float 34 is rotated according to the liquid level. The possibility that the float 34 will not move due to solidification of the liquid detergent between the float 32 and the arm 33 can be reduced. Further, since the float 34 is displaced both horizontally and vertically depending on the liquid level, the liquid level can be detected more accurately.

FIG. 17 schematically shows a cross section of the arm 33 and the rotation shaft 32. FIG. 17(a) shows a cross section of the arm 33 and rotation shaft 32 when the liquid detergent level is at its highest level. FIG. 17(b) shows a cross section of the arm 33 and the rotation shaft 32 when the liquid detergent is empty. In the entire range of the liquid detergent level, when the arm 33 rotates around the rotation axis 32 according to the liquid level, the notch 33b is configured to face upward rather than horizontally. This can further reduce the possibility that the liquid detergent splashed from the liquid surface will enter between the arm 33 and the rotating shaft 32 through the notch 33b and solidify.

In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a rotation shaft 32 is provided parallel to the direction in which the cleaning tank 1 is taken in and taken out of the housing 2, and is perpendicular to the direction in which the cleaning tank 1 is taken in and taken out from the housing 2. The float 34 is configured to rotate in the direction. As a result, when the cleaning tank 1 is moved in and out of the housing 2, the waves generated in the direction of movement in and out can be effectively canceled by the float 34. It is possible to prevent liquid detergent from adhering to the fitting portion 33a and the like. Even when the detergent tank 30 is taken in and taken out of the detergent tank storage part 40, waves generated in the direction of taking in and out can be canceled by the float 34, so that the fitting part of the atmosphere opening 39, the rotation shaft 32, and the arm 33 can be canceled out by the float 34. It is possible to prevent the liquid detergent from adhering to the parts 33a and the like.

In another example, the rotation shaft 32 is provided parallel to the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is taken in and out of the detergent tank storage part 40, and the rotation axis 32 is provided in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is taken in and out of the detergent tank storage part 40. The float 34 may be configured to rotate. As a result, when the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 40, the waves generated in the direction of insertion and removal can be effectively canceled by the float 34. It is possible to prevent the liquid detergent from adhering to the fitting part 33a of the detergent tank 33, etc., and also to prevent the liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 30 when the user refills the detergent tank 30 with the liquid detergent. can. Even when the cleaning tank 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2, the waves generated in the direction of insertion and removal can be canceled by the float 34, so that the atmosphere opening 39, the rotation shaft 32, the fitting part 33a of the arm 33, etc. It can prevent liquid detergent from adhering to the surface.

FIG. 18 shows the configuration of a control device for controlling the dishwasher according to the embodiment. The control device 50 is realized by hardware such as a microcomputer, a microcontroller, and an integrated circuit.

The control device 50 includes a process control section 51, a detection result acquisition section 52, a liquid level determination section 53, a detergent tank storage determination section 54, a liquid supply control section 55, a notification section 56, a standing time acquisition section 57, and a liquid supply target amount determination section. 58 and a memory 59. These configurations are realized in hardware by the CPU, memory, and other LSI of any computer, and in software by programs loaded into memory, but here we will discuss their cooperation. It depicts the functional blocks realized by Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that these functional blocks can be implemented in various ways, such as only hardware or a combination of hardware and software.

The process control unit 51 controls the washing operation of the dishwasher. The process control section 51 receives instructions from the user from the operation section 24 of the dishwasher, and controls the washing operation according to the instructions. The process control unit 51 may execute the washing process, the rinsing process, and the drying process continuously, may execute only any one of the processes, or may perform any combination of any two or more of the processes. May be executed in order.

The detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires the detection result by the magnetic sensor 41 from the magnetic sensor 41 . As described above, the magnetic sensor 41 detects the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 provided on the float 34.

The liquid level determination unit 53 determines the level of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 based on the detection result acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 52. For example, the liquid level determination unit 53 determines the position of the magnetic body 35 based on magnetism detected by a plurality of Hall elements installed at different installation positions, and determines the liquid level of the liquid detergent based on the determined position of the magnetic body 35. may be determined.

The detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines whether the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 based on the detection result acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 52. The detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines whether the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 when the detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires a detection result indicating that the magnetic sensor 41 has detected the magnetism of the magnetic body 35. It is determined that the The detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines whether the detergent tank 30 is placed in the detergent tank storage unit 40 when the detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires a detection result indicating that the magnetic sensor 41 has not detected the magnetism of the magnetic body 35. It is determined that it is not stored.

The liquid feed control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to feed the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1 . The liquid feeding control section 55 controls the detergent pump 16 so that the amount of liquid detergent determined by the liquid feeding target amount determining section 58 is supplied to the cleaning tank 1, as will be described later. When the liquid detergent feeding in the amount determined by the liquid feeding target amount determining section 58 is completed, the liquid feeding control section 55 records the liquid feeding end time in the memory 59.

When the detergent tank storage determining unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, the liquid feeding control unit 55 prevents liquid detergent from being sent from the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1. Controls detergent pump 16. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the cleaning process from being executed without detergent being supplied to the cleaning tank 1. In addition, air is sent into the flow path of the liquid detergent from the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1, and the target amount of detergent is not properly supplied to the cleaning tank 1 when cleaning is performed from next time onwards. can be prevented.

When the detergent tank storage determining section 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 40, the notification section 56 notifies the user to that effect. The notification unit 56 may notify the user by voice that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, or may display the notification on the display unit 25. Thereby, even if the user starts washing without storing the detergent tank 30 in the detergent tank storage part 40 by mistake, the detergent tank 30 can be stored in the detergent tank storage part 40.

By calculating the elapsed time since the detergent pump 16 last supplied liquid detergent to the cleaning tank 1, the leaving time acquisition unit 57 determines whether the detergent pump 16 and the liquid detergent flow path have been left unused. Get the time. The standing time acquisition unit 57 reads the previous liquid feeding end time from the memory 59 and calculates the elapsed time up to the current time. The standing time acquisition unit 57 may count the elapsed time from the previous liquid feeding end time using a counter circuit or the like. The left time acquisition unit 57 may acquire information indicating the previous liquid feeding end time or the left time from an external server or the like.

When liquid detergents used in dishwashers are left for long periods of time, they thicken due to oxidation caused by oxygen in the air. Figure 19 shows the viscosity of liquid detergents measured by a rotational viscometer. The viscosity of the liquid detergent measured after being left for 3 months increased only slightly from the initial value, but the viscosity of the liquid detergent measured after being left for 6 months significantly increased from the initial value. Therefore, when the dishwasher is used again after being left unused for a long period of time, the liquid detergent remaining in the flow path including the detergent pump 16 thickens or solidifies and flows out. The detergent pump 16 may not be able to supply the prescribed amount of detergent to the cleaning tank 1.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the standing time is longer than a predetermined threshold value, the target amount of liquid detergent to be fed is increased from the specified amount, so that the driving time, number of driving times, and driving voltage of the detergent pump 16 can be adjusted. increase more than normal. Thereby, it is possible to compensate for the decrease in the amount of liquid to be fed due to the thickening of the liquid detergent, so that an appropriate amount of liquid detergent can be supplied to the cleaning tank 1.

The liquid feed target amount determination unit 58 determines the liquid feed target amount when liquid detergent is supplied to the cleaning tank 1 . When the left time acquired by the left time acquisition unit 57 is shorter than the first threshold value, the liquid feeding target amount determination unit 58 determines the operation mode of the cleaning process, the type of liquid detergent, the type and amount of the object to be cleaned, and the water temperature. The target amount of liquid to be delivered is determined according to the temperature, temperature, etc. If the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition section 57 is longer than the first threshold, the target liquid feeding amount determining section 58 adds a predetermined amount to the normal target liquid feeding amount determined as described above. . The additional amount may be determined depending on the length of time the product is left, the season during which it is left alone, temperature, humidity, and the like. For example, it is considered that the longer the standing time and the lower the temperature or humidity during the standing period, the higher the degree of thickening of the liquid detergent, so the amount added may be increased.

The liquid feed control section 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to feed the liquid detergent in the target amount of liquid detergent determined by the target liquid feed amount determining section 58 . The liquid feeding control unit 55 determines the driving time, number of driving times, and driving voltage of the detergent pump 16 according to the target liquid feeding amount, and controls the detergent pump 16.

If the liquid detergent is left unused for a period longer than the first threshold, the liquid detergent target amount determining unit 58 increases the liquid detergent target amount to be sent more than usual only once immediately after. It may be a predetermined number of times, or it may be until it is detected that the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is almost completely used and the detergent tank 30 is almost empty. good. It may be determined which of the above periods to adopt depending on the standing time. For example, if the standing time is relatively short, it is expected that the thickened liquid detergent remaining in the flow path will flow out into the cleaning tank 1 by feeding the liquid detergent once, so The target amount of liquid to be fed may be increased by one time. If the standing time is relatively long, it is thought that it will be necessary to feed the liquid detergent several times before the thickened liquid detergent remaining in the flow path flows out into the cleaning tank 1. The target amount of liquid may be increased. If the standing time is longer, the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 is likely to have thickened, so increase the target amount of liquid to be fed until most of the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 is used. You may. Whether most of the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 has been used may be determined based on the liquid level of the liquid detergent determined by the liquid level determination unit 53.

The liquid feed target amount determination unit 58 may determine the liquid feed target amount further based on the elapsed time since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30. If the elapsed time since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30 is longer than a predetermined threshold value, the liquid detergent target amount determining unit 58 determines the amount of liquid to be fed due to thickening of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30. In order to compensate for the decrease, the target amount of liquid to be fed may be increased. In this case, the time when the liquid level determination section 53 determines that the liquid level of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 has reached the full level is recorded in the memory 59, and the liquid supply target amount determination section 58 The elapsed time may be calculated by referring to the time recorded in 59.

The liquid feed target amount determination unit 58 may determine the liquid feed target amount further based on the liquid detergent liquid level determined by the liquid level determination unit 53. The liquid feed target amount determination unit 58 calculates the cumulative total of the liquid feed target amount from a first time point, for example, the time when the liquid detergent liquid level is full determined by the liquid level determination portion 53, to a second time point. When the difference between the target liquid level subtracted from the liquid level determined by the liquid level determining unit 53 at the first time point and the actual liquid level determined by the liquid level determining unit 53 at the second time point is larger than a predetermined value. Alternatively, it may be determined that the amount of liquid detergent actually delivered is significantly different from the target amount of liquid to be delivered, and the target amount of liquid to be delivered may be adjusted according to the difference between the target liquid level and the actual liquid level. For example, if the target liquid level is higher than the actual liquid level by a predetermined value or more, the target amount of liquid to be fed may be increased. The target liquid feed amount for calculating the difference between the target liquid level and the actual liquid level may be a value before being increased by the liquid feed target amount determination unit 58.

The liquid feeding control unit 55 controls the liquid detergent when the left time acquired by the left time acquisition unit 57 is longer than a second threshold, or when the elapsed time since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30 is longer than a predetermined threshold. If it is too long, the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 may be discarded. In this case, the liquid feeding control unit 55 sends all the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1, supplies water into the washing tank 1, and discharges the liquid detergent together with the water. Good too. At this time, the notification unit 56 may notify the user that the liquid detergent is to be discarded. This can prevent the object to be cleaned from being washed using liquid detergent that has been stored in the detergent tank 30 for a long time and may have deteriorated due to oxidation or the like.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment. The flowchart shown in FIG. 20 shows the steps before the cleaning process is started in the dishwasher. When the cleaning process is started by the process control unit 51 (S10), the detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires the detection result from the magnetic sensor 41, and the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines whether the detergent tank 30 is the detergent tank based on the detection result. It is determined whether or not it is stored in the storage section 40 (S12). If the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 40 (N at S12), the notification section 56 notifies the user to that effect (S14), and the process returns to S12. When the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 40 (Y in S12), the process control section 51 executes the cleaning process (S16).

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment. The flowchart shown in FIG. 21 shows the procedure of a cleaning process performed in a dishwasher. The left time acquisition unit 57 reads the previous liquid feeding end time from the memory 59 (S20), and calculates the left time (S21). If the standing time is longer than the second threshold t2 (Y in S22), the liquid feed control unit 55 feeds all the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1 (S24), and the cleaning is performed. Water is supplied into the tank 1 and discharged together with the liquid detergent (S26), and the cleaning process is completed.

When the standing time is less than or equal to the second threshold t2 (N in S22), the target liquid feeding amount determination unit 58 determines the normal target liquid feeding amount (S28). If the standing time is longer than the first threshold t1 (Y in S30), the target liquid feed amount determination unit 58 increases the target liquid feed amount (S32). If the standing time is less than or equal to the first threshold t1 (N at S30), S32 is skipped and the target amount of liquid to be fed is not changed. The liquid feeding control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to feed the target amount of liquid detergent to the cleaning tank 1 (S34), and when the liquid feeding ends, records the liquid feeding end time in the memory 59 ( S36). The process control unit 51 executes a cleaning process (S38).

FIG. 22 schematically shows another example of the detergent tank 30. FIG. 22(a) is a schematic sectional view of the detergent tank 30, and FIG. 22(b) is a schematic side view of the detergent tank 30 seen from the back side in the loading/unloading direction. A detergent discharge port 71 is provided at the lowest end of the back side of the detergent tank 30 in the loading/unloading direction. The detergent discharge port 71 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and a foreign matter trap 70 for capturing foreign matter mixed into the detergent tank 30 is inserted into the internal cavity. An O-ring 72 is provided between the foreign matter trap 70 and the detergent discharge port 71. Thereby, the space between the foreign matter capturing section 70 and the detergent discharge port 71 is fixed in a fluid-tight manner. The liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is discharged from a flow path 73 provided inside the foreign matter capturing section 70.

The inner end of the detergent tank 30 of the foreign object trap 70 has an outer diameter smaller than the inner opening of the detergent outlet 71, and the outer end has a larger outer diameter than the outer opening of the detergent outlet 71. It has an outer diameter. Therefore, the foreign matter trap 70 is detachably inserted into the detergent outlet 71 from the outside of the detergent tank 30. The foreign matter trap 70 is fixed to the detergent outlet 71 only by the sliding resistance of the O-ring 72, so the user can move the detergent tank 30 from the inside to the outside as shown by the arrow in FIG. 22(a). The foreign object trap 70 can be easily removed by simply pushing the foreign object trap 70 out. Further, the foreign matter trap 70 can be easily attached by simply pushing it into the detergent discharge port 71 from the outside of the detergent tank 30. Thereby, the foreign matter trapping section 70 can be easily attached and detached to wash away the detergent discharge port 71 and its surroundings, so that the foreign matter captured by the foreign matter trapping section 70 can be easily removed.

FIG. 23 schematically shows a cross section of the foreign object trap 70. As shown in FIG. The foreign matter trap 70 includes a cover 76 having a substantially cylindrical shape, a constriction part 74 connected to an end of the cover 76, and a valve body 80 provided in a cavity inside the cover 76. A groove 78 is provided in the center of the cover 76, and an O-ring 72 is provided outside the groove 78. A diaphragm opening 75 is provided near the connection between the diaphragm 74 and the cover 76, and a cover opening 77 is provided near the connection between the cover 76 and the diaphragm 74. The liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 flows into the inside of the cover 76 through the throttle opening 75 and the cover opening 77. The valve body 80 is biased toward the left in the figure by a biasing spring 81 . At this time, the valve body 80 is pressed against the inside of the groove portion 78 and the space between the valve body 80 and the cover 76 is liquid-tightly sealed by the sealing member 82, so that the liquid detergent does not flow out into the channel 73.

FIG. 24 schematically shows a state in which the foreign matter trap 70 is attached to the detergent discharge port 71. FIG. 24(a) shows a cross section when the foreign matter trap 70 is attached to the detergent discharge port. FIG. 24(b) is a partially enlarged view of the rectangular portion of FIG. 24(a). FIG. 24(c) is a side view of the foreign matter trap 70 seen from inside the detergent tank 30. FIG. 24(d) is a side view of another example of the constriction section 74 of the foreign matter trapping section 70. Although FIG. 24 shows a state in which the valve body 80 is opened, the opening and closing of the valve body 80 will be described later.

When the foreign matter trapping section 70 is attached to the detergent discharge port 71, a gap d between the outside of the body of the foreign matter trap 70 and the inner opening of the detergent discharge port 71 extends from the constriction section opening 75 to the cleaning tank 1. It is configured to be smaller than the inner diameter of the liquid detergent flow path. The liquid detergent flow path from the throttle opening 75 to the cleaning tank 1 includes the cover opening 77, the flow path between the valve body 80 and the cover 76 when the valve body 80 is opened, the flow path 73, and the detergent discharge port 71. , a detergent tank housing side detergent discharge path 43, a flow path in the detergent pump 16, a cleaning tank side detergent discharge path 18, and a cleaning tank detergent discharge port 17. When liquid detergent is sent from the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1 by the detergent pump 16, foreign objects larger than the gap d in the detergent tank 30 cannot pass through the gap d, so they do not enter the detergent tank 30. stay. Foreign matter that is smaller than the gap d and can pass through the gap d flows to the cleaning tank 1 without clogging the flow path on the way. This can prevent foreign matter from clogging the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent outlet 71 to the cleaning tank 1. Foreign matter remaining in the detergent tank 30 without passing through the gap d can be easily washed away and removed by removing the foreign matter trap 70.

In the example shown in FIG. 24(c), the liquid detergent flows into the foreign matter trap 70 only through the gap d formed in a concentric ring shape, and is discharged from the detergent discharge port 71. The gap d functions as a foreign matter trapping channel for trapping foreign matter in the detergent tank 30.

In the example shown in FIG. 24(d), the liquid detergent can flow into the foreign matter trapping section 70 not only through the gap d but also through the hole 83 provided in the constriction section 74. The diameter of the hole 83 is also configured to be smaller than the diameter of the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent outlet 71 to the cleaning tank 1. That is, the hole 83 also functions as a flow path for trapping foreign matter. Foreign matter larger than the hole 83 cannot pass through the hole 83 and therefore remains within the detergent tank 30. Foreign matter that is smaller than the hole 83 and can pass through the hole 83 flows to the cleaning tank 1 without clogging the flow path. This can prevent foreign matter from clogging the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent outlet 71 to the cleaning tank 1. Foreign matter that has adhered around the hole 83 without passing through the hole 83 can be easily removed by removing the foreign matter trap 70 and washing it.

By further providing the holes 83, the cross-sectional area of the liquid detergent flow path can be increased, thereby reducing pressure loss and reducing the negative pressure generated when the liquid detergent is sucked out by the detergent pump 16. . Further, since the area through which the liquid detergent can pass can be increased, even if a part is blocked by foreign matter, the influence of clogging can be reduced. Therefore, the performance and reliability of liquid detergent feeding can be maintained well.

FIG. 25 schematically shows a cross section of the detergent tank 30 housed in the detergent tank storage section 40. A rib 45 is provided at the tip of the elbow 44 that constitutes the detergent discharge path 43 on the side of the detergent tank storage section. When the detergent tank 30 is housed in the detergent tank storage section 40, the rib 45 is inserted into the flow path 73 of the foreign matter capturing section 70, and the valve body 80 is pushed in. This opens the valve body 80 and allows liquid detergent to flow into the channel 73. While the detergent tank 30 is removed from the detergent tank storage part 40, the valve body 80 is pressed against the groove part 78 by the biasing spring 81, and the flow path between the valve body 80 and the cover 76 is closed, so that the internal The liquid detergent stored in the detergent can be prevented from leaking out from the detergent discharge port 71.

In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the foreign object trapping section 70 has a foreign object trapping flow path for trapping foreign objects. Good too. In this case as well, the foreign matter trap 70 may be removably provided toward the outside of the detergent tank 30. This allows the filter to be easily removed and foreign matter removed.

The present disclosure has been described above based on examples. Those skilled in the art will understand that this example is merely an example, and that various modifications can be made to the combinations of these components and processing processes, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention. .

In the embodiment, an example was shown in which the cleaning tank 1 having an opening at the top can be taken in and out of the housing 2 having a front opening at the front, but in another example, the cleaning tank 1 can be opened and closed. A door may be provided above the cleaning tank 1. In this case, the cleaning tank 1 may be provided so as to be removable back and forth from the casing 2, or may be fixedly housed inside the casing 2.

In the embodiment, an example is shown in which the dishwasher is housed inside the kitchen, but in another example, the dishwasher may be configured as an independent device.

In the embodiment, a dishwasher for washing objects to be washed such as tableware has been described, but the technology of the present disclosure is applicable to a washing machine for washing clothes and other objects to be washed. It can also be applied to cleaning equipment, etc.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICATION This invention can be utilized for the cleaning apparatus for cleaning the object to be cleaned.

1 Washing tank, 1a opening, 2 Housing, 3 Door body, 4 Handle, 5 First rail, 6 Second rail, 8 Tableware, 9 Circulation pump, 10 Heater, 11 Washing nozzle, 12 Side wall, 13 Front space part, 14 Detergent tank storage part, 14a Detergent tank storage part detergent discharge port, 14b Detergent tank storage part side detergent discharge path, 14c Recessed part, 15 Detergent tank, 15a Transparent part, 15c Detergent tank detergent discharge port, 15d Detergent tank Detergent suction path, 15e Lid, 15f Convex portion, 16 Detergent pump, 17 Washing tank detergent discharge port, 18 Washing tank side detergent discharge path, 19 Control device, 23 Plane portion, 24 Operation portion, 25 Display portion, 30 Detergent tank , 31 cover, 32 rotation shaft, 33 arm, 33a fitting portion, 33b notch, 34 float, 35 magnetic material, 36 inner bottom surface, 37 detergent discharge port, 38 liquid detergent, 39 atmosphere opening port, 39a protrusion, 39b notch, 40 detergent tank storage section, 41 magnetic sensor, 42 detergent intake port, 43 detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path, 44 elbow, 45 rib, 50 control device, 51 process control section, 52 detection result acquisition section, 53 Liquid level determination unit, 54 Detergent tank storage determination unit, 55 Liquid supply control unit, 56 Notification unit, 57 Standing time acquisition unit, 58 Target liquid supply amount determination unit, 59 Memory, 70 Foreign object capture unit, 71 Detergent discharge port, 72 o-ring, 73 channel, 74 throttle, 75 throttle opening, 76 cover, 77 cover opening, 78 groove, 80 valve body, 81 biasing spring, 82 seal member, 83 hole.

Claims (9)

A casing and
a cleaning tank provided in the housing and accommodating an object to be cleaned;
a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent supplied to the cleaning tank;
Equipped with
In order to suppress waves generated in the liquid detergent, a floating body floating in the liquid detergent is provided in the detergent tank ,
The floating body is pivotally supported on a rotation shaft provided on a cover that covers the opening of the detergent tank,
A dishwasher in which an air opening is provided in the cover above a range where the floating body moves according to the liquid level of the liquid detergent. The dishwasher according to claim 1 , wherein the washing tank is provided so as to be freely put in and taken out of the housing. The dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the detergent tank is provided so as to be freely put in and taken out of the washing tank or the housing. The dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a protrusion protruding from the lower surface of the cover toward the interior of the detergent tank near the atmosphere opening. The dishwasher according to claim 4 , wherein when the floating body moves upward, at least a portion of the floating body or a member that moves together with the floating body approaches or comes into contact with the protrusion. 6. The dishwasher according to claim 4 , wherein the protrusion has a shape that surrounds the atmosphere opening, and a notch is provided in a part of the protrusion. The cleaning tank is provided so as to be freely put in and taken out of the housing,
The dishwasher according to claim 6 , wherein the cutout is provided in a direction different from a direction in which the washing tank is taken in and taken out. The detergent tank is provided so as to be freely put in and taken out of the cleaning tank or the housing,
The dishwasher according to claim 6 or 7 , wherein the cutout is provided in a direction different from a direction in which the detergent tank is taken in and taken out. The floating body is pivotally supported on a rotation shaft provided on the cover,
The dishwasher according to any one of claims 6 to 8 , wherein the notch is provided on the rotation shaft side.

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