JPH10179979A - Washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the operability of an operating switch by making the operating procedure of the operating switch easy to understand. SOLUTION: This washing machine is provided with an operating panel 17 having operating switches 18, 20, 21 and indicators 19, 22, 23a, 24 disposed thereon. The operating panel 17 is provided with an annular luminescent indicator 19 having an annular luminescent region, while the annular luminescent indicator 19 is provided inside with a temporary start-stopping switch 20 and a process selecting switch 21 as the operating switch. Further, a display region 29e to display that the process selecting switch can be operated is disposed to be embedded in a display region 29d for displaying that the temporary start- stopping switch can be operated. Thus, two operating switches 20, 21 indispensable for a user can be clearly recognized, so that the ease of use is improved.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a washing machine having an operation panel on which various operation switches and indicators are arranged.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art For example, an operation panel of a fully automatic washing machine includes:
A course selection switch for selecting a washing operation course, a water level selection switch for selecting a water level, a stroke selection switch for selecting a washing stroke, a setting switch for setting an operation time, a start pause switch for starting the washing operation and temporarily stopping the operation. And many other operation switches. The operation panel is provided with a number of indicators for displaying the course, water level, stroke, time, etc., which are selected and set.

[0003]

In the case of the above conventional configuration,
Since the number of operation switches is large, there is a problem that it is difficult for the user to understand the operation procedure (for example, the order of operation) of these many operation switches. On the contrary,
Conventionally, the configuration of operation switches that are frequently used has been increased in size, and a group of operation switches that have been used less frequently has been covered with an openable / closable cover. However, such measures are not easy for a user to understand, and there is room for improvement in operability of operation switches.

[0004] On the other hand, when it is desired to execute a closed operation that is not disclosed to the user in the washing machine, in the conventional configuration, a special operation of a predetermined number of operation switches among a large number of operation switches on an operation panel is performed. For example, by turning on the power while simultaneously turning on the several operation switches, the secret operation is executed. However, in such a configuration, if the user randomly operates a large number of operation switches on the operation panel, the special operation may be accidentally performed, and the private operation may be performed. there were. Such a thing was not so favorable, and some countermeasures were required.

Further, it has been considered that a display for emitting a plurality of colors is provided as a display of the operation panel to make the light emission mode of the display beautiful. An LED that emits a plurality of colors (for example, a red LED) is used as a light emitting element of such a display.
When a green LED is used, visibility may be deteriorated depending on the color of light emission, and improvement is also required.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to improve the operability by making the operation procedure of the operation switch easy to understand, to prevent the execution of the private operation by the user without fail, and to provide a display. It is an object of the present invention to provide a washing machine capable of preventing visibility from being deteriorated depending on colors when a plurality of colors are emitted.

[0007]

According to the present invention, there is provided a washing machine comprising an operation panel provided with an operation switch and a display, wherein a light emitting area provided on the operation panel has an annular shape. It is characterized in that it comprises a display and an operation switch provided inside the annular light-emitting display on the operation panel.

According to the above configuration, since the operation switch is provided inside the ring-shaped light emitting display, if the user wants to operate the operation switch, the user is instructed by causing the ring-shaped light emitting display to emit light. It becomes possible. Thereby, the user can easily understand the operation procedure of the operation switch, and the operability is improved.

Further, in the above configuration, a start temporary stop switch and a stroke selection switch are provided as operation switches inside the annular light emitting display, and a display area for displaying that the start temporary stop switch is operable is provided. It is preferable to provide a display area for displaying that the stroke selection switch can be operated.

Further, the ring-shaped light emitting display is configured to have a light emitting element and a storage support member for storing and supporting the light emitting element, and the storage support member is integrally provided with an elastic piece for returning the operation switch. It is good to be provided. Furthermore, it is preferable that the operation switch is configured to include a switch element and a switch pressing body that presses and operates the switch element, and that the shape of the switch pressing body is configured to be substantially the same as that of the annular light emitting display.

It is preferable that the light emission control means changes the light emission cycle or the light emission color of the annular light emitting display according to the driving operation state. Further, when a plurality of colors are emitted by the annular light emitting display, it is preferable that the light emission control means be configured to change the energization ratio to the light emitting element of the annular light emitting display in accordance with the emission color. With this configuration, when a plurality of colors are emitted, the luminance of each color is substantially uniform, and the visibility of each color is substantially the same.

On the other hand, by simultaneously operating the start temporary stop switch, the stroke selection switch, and the power switch, a standby state for execution of a non-disclosure operation that is not disclosed to the user is established, and when a predetermined operation switch operation is performed thereafter, It is preferable that the system be configured to include an operation control unit that performs the secret operation and cancels the secret operation when an operation other than a predetermined operation switch operation is performed. With such a configuration, when the user randomly operates the operation switch on the operation panel, the operation may be in a standby state for performing the secret driving, but in this state, the user further performs the predetermined operation by the random operation. It is almost impossible to perform a switch operation. For this reason, the execution of the closed operation by the user can be reliably prevented.

[0013]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment in which the present invention is applied to a fully automatic washing machine will be described below with reference to the drawings.
First, in FIG. 2 showing a schematic overall configuration of a fully automatic washing machine, an outer tub 2 is provided in an outer box 1 so as to be swingable via an elastic suspension mechanism (not shown). Inside the outer tub 2, a rotatable tub 3 serving as a washing tub and a dehydration basket is rotatably disposed. A stirring body 4 is rotatably arranged on the inner bottom of the rotating tank 3. The rotary tub 3 is made of, for example, a plastic tub or a stainless tub, and has a large number of dehydration holes 5 formed in a peripheral wall thereof. A balance ring 6 is provided on the upper part of the rotating tank 3.
Are arranged.

Further, at the right end of the bottom of the outer tank 2 in FIG.
A drain port 7 is formed. The drain port 7 is provided with a drain valve 8 and a drain hose 9 is connected thereto. An air trap 10 for detecting a water level is provided near the drain port 7.
Is provided. A water level sensor (not shown) composed of, for example, a pressure sensor is connected to the air trap 10 via an air tube 11.

Further, a motor 12 and a drive mechanism 13 are provided on the outer bottom of the outer tub 2. The torque of the motor 12 is transmitted to the drive mechanism 13 via the belt transmission mechanism 14. The drive mechanism 13 includes a clutch device, a speed reduction device, a brake device, and the like. During the washing operation, the drive mechanism unit 13 reduces and transmits the rotational force of the motor 12 to the agitator 4 in a state where the rotation of the rotary tub 3 is stopped,
This is rotated forward and backward. The drive mechanism unit 13 is configured to transmit the torque of the motor 12 to the rotary tub 3 and the agitator 4 in a state where the braking of the rotary tub 3 is released during the spin-drying operation, and to rotate both at high speed. .

Further, on the upper part of the outer box 1, a top cover 1 is provided.
5 are provided. A water supply valve (not shown) is provided at a rear portion in the top cover 15, and the water supply valve is configured to supply water into the rotary tank 3.
Further, on the top of the top cover 15, for example, a two-fold type lid 16 is provided so as to be openable and closable, and the lid 16 is configured to open and close a laundry entrance.

Now, on the upper front part of the top cover 15,
An operation panel 17 as shown in FIG. 1 is provided. The operation panel 17 has a power switch 18 at its right end.
A ring-shaped light-emitting indicator 19 having a ring-shaped (ring-shaped) light-emitting area is provided on the left side of the power switch 18. A start / stop switch 20 and an operation switch are provided inside the ring-shaped light-emitting indicator 19 as operation switches. A stroke selection switch 21 is provided. On the left side of the annular light-emitting indicator 19 on the operation panel 17, a detergent amount indicator 22 for displaying the detergent amount is provided, and a dry switch 23 for selecting a dry mark course is provided in front of the detergent amount indicator 22.
Further, a stroke indicator 24 for displaying a washing stroke is provided on the left side of the detergent amount indicator 22.

At the left end of the dry switch 23, there is provided a dry indicator 23a for indicating that the dry mark course has been selected. Note that the above-described start temporary stop switch 20, stroke selection switch 21, and dry switch 23 (operation switch) may be referred to as a start pause key, a stroke selection key, and a dry key (operation key).

Here, the specific structure of the operation panel 17 will be described with reference to FIGS. First,
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a longitudinal section along the line AA in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 3, the operation panel 17 includes a panel body 25 attached to and fixed to the top cover 15, a first case 26 attached to a lower surface of the panel body 25 by, for example, screws, and a first case 26. And a second case 27 attached to the lower surface of the case 26 by, for example, screwing.

As shown in FIG. 4, the panel body 25 is made of a panel main member 28 made of plastic.
And a decorative plate 29 fitted and fixed to the upper surface of the panel main member 28. The panel main member 28 has a substantially circular opening 28a at the right end thereof corresponding to the power switch 18, and a substantially elliptical opening corresponding to the annular light emitting display 19 on the left side of the opening 28a. Part 28
b is formed, and a substantially rectangular opening 28c is formed on the left side of the opening 28b corresponding to the detergent amount indicator 22, the dry switch 23 and the stroke indicator 24.

Further, the panel main member 28 includes a decorative plate 29.
A groove 28d is formed on the outer peripheral portion excluding the rear side portion for fitting and fixing a protruding ridge portion 29a protruding downward, and is protruded downward on the lower surface of the decorative plate 29. Hole 28 for engaging the engaging claws 29b, 29b
e and 28e are formed.

The decorative plate 29 is a plate-like member formed by integrally forming, for example, a sheet made of, for example, PET having characters or patterns as shown in FIG. A ring-shaped design portion 29c is provided on a portion of the decorative plate 29 corresponding to the ring-shaped light emitting display 19. The ring-shaped design portion 29c is formed of a translucent member capable of transmitting light. The ring-shaped design portion 29c and the region 29d inside the ring-shaped design portion 29c are formed of a thin member that can be pressed and deformed by a finger. The area 29d is a display area indicating an area where the start temporary stop switch 20 can be pressed. In this display area 29d, the text "start temporary stop" is printed.

Further, on the left side of the display area 29d, there is provided a display area 29e indicating an area where the stroke selection switch 21 can be pressed. This display area 29e
Is, for example, a small elliptical area, on which characters "stroke" are printed.

The detergent amount indicator 2 on the decorative plate 29
2 are provided with three relatively small rectangular design portions 29f, 29g, and 29h whose sizes are different in size. These rectangular symbols 29f, 29g, 2
9h is formed of a translucent member capable of transmitting light. On the rear side (upper side in FIG. 4) of the rectangular design portion 29f, a character of "detergent amount" is printed.

In front of the rectangular design portion 29h, a display area 2 showing an area where the dry switch 23 can be pressed.
9i are provided. The display area 29i is formed of a thin member that can be pressed and deformed by a finger.
The display area 29i is, for example, a small elliptical area, on which characters "DRY" are printed.
Further, a small circular design portion 29j is provided at the left end of the display area 29i in correspondence with the dry display 23a. The small circular design portion 29i is formed of a translucent member capable of transmitting light.

The travel indicator 24 on the decorative plate 29
The parts corresponding to the three small circle-shaped pattern parts 29k, 2
9l and 29m are provided. These small circular design portions 29k, 29l, 29m are formed of a translucent member capable of transmitting light. The above small circle pattern part 29k, 2
On each left side of 9l, 29m, "wash", "rinse",
The letters "dehydration" are printed.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5, the first case 26 is constituted as a shallow container having a substantially rectangular shape as a whole, and a printed wiring board 30 (see FIG. 3) is contained therein. The housing is fixed. A control circuit for controlling the overall washing operation is mounted on the printed wiring board 30, and the indicators 19, 22, 23a, 24
For example, 13 LEDs 31 to 43 constituting the light emitting element
(Refer to FIG. 5; FIG. 3 shows only two switches.) Further, for example, three tact switches 44 constituting switch elements of the operation switches 20, 21, and 23 are provided.
(Only one is shown in FIG. 3).

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, on the printed circuit board 30 in the first case 26, first LEDs corresponding to the six LEDs 31 to 36 are provided.
A support 47 is attached, and seven LEDs 37
A second LED support 48 is attached corresponding to .about.43. FIG. 5 shows the first case 26 and two LEs.
The positions where the D supports 47 and 48 and the LEDs 31 to 43 are arranged are illustrated, and the illustration of the printed wiring board 30 is omitted.

Here, the specific structure of the first LED support 47 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3, 5, and 6. FIG.
As shown in FIGS. 3, 5 and 6, the first LED support 4
Reference numeral 7 denotes a substantially oval shape as a whole, and a bottom wall portion 47a having a substantially annular shape; a peripheral wall portion 47b projecting upward from an outer peripheral portion of the bottom wall portion 47a; The projection 47c has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and protrudes upward from the inner periphery of the projection 47a. At the lower front portion of the peripheral wall portion 47b, a mounting protrusion 47d is provided so as to project therefrom.
An engaging projection 47e is protrudingly provided at the lower rear portion of. A plurality of engaging claws 47f (only one is shown in FIG. 3) project downward from the lower surface of the bottom wall portion 47a, and an annular rib 47g is formed on the inner peripheral portion thereof. It protrudes toward.

Further, for example, twelve holes 47h capable of inserting and supporting LEDs are formed in the bottom wall portion 47a. Of the twelve holes 47h, the holes 47h for accommodating (inserting) and supporting the six LEDs 31 to 36 provided on the printed wiring board 30 are the six holes 4 as shown in FIG.
7h. On the upper surface of the convex portion 47c, an elastic piece 47i for returning operation of the start temporary stop switch 20 is formed substantially in a half portion on the right side, and an elastic piece 47i for returning operation of the stroke selection switch 21 is formed on the left end. One piece 47j is formed. These elastic pieces 47i and 47j are
7c is formed by forming two substantially U-shaped slits on the upper wall portion so as to be combined with each other,
It is configured to be vertically elastically deformable.

An engagement hole 47k is formed at the center of the elastic piece 47i. A projection 49a (see FIG. 7) protruding from substantially the center of the lower surface of the switch pressing body 49 of the start temporary stop switch 20 is fitted and engaged in the engagement hole 47k. On the outer peripheral surface of the projection 49a,
Two engagement pieces 49b are protruded, and these engagement pieces 4
9b is brought into contact with and engaged with the lower surface of the elastic piece portion 47i. A positioning projection is formed on the upper surface of the engagement piece 49b, and a positioning recess (not shown) is formed on the lower surface of the elastic piece 47i to be fitted with the positioning projection.

The switch pressing body 49 is formed in a substantially heart shape, and is configured to have substantially the same shape (that is, an approximate shape) as the shape of the annular light emitting display 19. Further, the convex portion 49a on the lower surface of the switch pressing body 49 presses the operation element 44a of the tact switch 44 provided on the printed wiring board 30 in accordance with the pressing operation of the switch pressing body 49, and switches the tact switch 44 to the switch operation. It is configured to be. Tact switch 4
Reference numeral 4 denotes a switch element of the start / stop switch 20.

The elastic piece portion 47j has a convex portion 471 protruding upward from its upper surface and a convex portion (not shown) protruding downward from its lower surface. The convex part 47
1 corresponds to the switch pressing body of the stroke selection switch 21. The convex portion on the lower surface is configured to press an operator (not shown) of a tact switch provided on the printed wiring board 30 in accordance with a pressing operation of the elastic piece portion 47j to perform a switch operation of the tact switch. ing. The tact switch constitutes a switch element of the stroke selection switch 21.

Here, the first LED support 47 (the first LED support 47 to which the switch pressing body 49 is attached in advance).
Is attached to the first case 26.
In this case, the printed wiring board 30 is placed in the first case 26.
Then, the first LED support 47 is placed on the printed wiring board 30 (see FIG. 3). At this time, the six LEDs 31 to 36 are accommodated and supported in the six holes 47h of the bottom wall portion 47a of the first LED support 47, and
Tact switch 44
And the projection 47m of the elastic piece portion 47j is further aligned with the operator of the tact switch.

At the same time, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5,
The engagement protrusion 47 e of the first LED support 47 is engaged with an engagement hole formed in the rear wall 26 a of the first case 26. Then, the screw 50 is connected to the through hole formed in the mounting projection 47 d of the first LED support 47 and the printed wiring board 3.
The first case 26 is inserted into a through hole formed therein, and is fastened and fixed to a screw hole formed in a bottom wall 26b of the first case 26. In the case of this configuration, the first LED support 47 forms a storage support member.

Also, six LEDs 31 to 36, a first L
The ring-shaped light emitting display 19 is composed of the ED support 47, the ring-shaped design portion 29c of the decorative plate 29, and the like. The tactile switch 44, the elastic piece 47i, the display area 29d, the switch pressing body 49, etc.
Is configured. Furthermore, a tact switch and an elastic piece 4
7j, the display area 29e, etc., constitute a stroke selection switch 21.

On the other hand, the second LED support 48 is formed in a substantially rectangular frame shape as shown in FIG. 5, and accommodates (inserts) the seven LEDs 37 to 43 provided on the printed wiring board 30. It has seven holes 48a. Also,
At the front right end of the second LED support 48, an elastic piece 48b for the return operation of the dry switch 23 is formed.

The elastic piece portion 48b has a convex portion 48c projecting upward from the upper surface thereof, and a convex portion (not shown) projecting downward from the lower surface thereof. The convex part 48c
Corresponds to the switch pressing body of the dry switch 23. The convex portion on the lower surface is configured so as to press an operation element (not shown) of a tact switch provided on the printed wiring board 30 in accordance with a pressing operation of the elastic piece portion 48b to switch the tact switch. ing. The tact switch constitutes a switch element of the dry switch 23.

The second LED support 48 has a mounting projection 48d protruding from the front right end and an engagement projection 48e protruding from the rear left end. The second L having such a configuration
The attachment of the ED support 48 to the first case 26 is performed in substantially the same manner as the attachment of the first LED support 47. That is, the second LED support 48
Is mounted on the printed wiring board 30 and the positions of the LEDs, tact switches, and the like are aligned. Thereafter, the engaging protrusion 48e of the second LED support 48 is engaged with an engaging hole formed in the rear wall 26a of the first case 26, and a screw (not shown) is connected to the second LED support 48. 48 through-hole formed in the mounting projection 48d and the printed wiring board 3
The first case 26 is inserted through a through-hole (not shown) formed therein, and is fastened and fixed to a screw hole (not shown) formed in a bottom wall 26b of the first case 26.

In this case, the LEDs 40, 41, 42, the second
LED support 48, rectangular design portion 29f of decorative plate 29
The detergent amount indicator 22 is constituted by 29h and the like. The tact switch, the elastic piece 48b, and the display area 29i
Thus, a dry switch 23 is configured. Also, L
The dry display 23a is composed of the ED 43, the second LED support 48, the small circular pattern portion 29j of the decorative plate 29, and the like. Further, the stroke indicator 24 is constituted by the LEDs 37, 38, 39, the second LED support 48, the small circular design portions 29k to 29m of the decorative plate 29, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first case 26
A printed circuit board 51 on which a power supply circuit, a drive circuit, and the like for energizing and driving a load such as the motor 12 are mounted is provided in the second case 27 attached to the lower surface of the second case 27.

FIG. 8 shows the 13 LEDs 31 described above.
It is a figure which shows the electric circuit which controls energization of -43. In FIG. 8, the control circuit 52 includes a microcomputer or the like, has a function of controlling the entire washing operation of the fully automatic washing machine, and stores a control program therefor. This control circuit 52 constitutes operation control means and light emission control means.

Although not shown, the control circuit 52 inputs switch signals from various operation switches on the operation panel 17, inputs a water level detection signal output from a water level sensor, and controls the rotation of the motor 12. It is configured to input a pulse signal output from a rotation sensor (not shown) for detecting the number. Further, the control circuit 52
Although not shown, each load such as a water supply valve, a drain valve 8, a motor 12, and a buzzer is controlled to be energized.

Then, the control circuit 52 determines that the 13 L
The EDs 31 to 43 are configured to be energized by a so-called dynamic lighting method. Hereinafter, the connection mode of the 13 LEDs 31 to 43 will be specifically described with reference to FIG. Here, among the thirteen LEDs 31 to 43, the seven LEDs 31 to 36 and 38 are formed of two-color light emitting diodes, and each of the green LEDs 3 emits green light.
1a-36a, 38a and red LED 31b that emits red light
36b and 38b. In FIG. 8, L
“G” described near ED indicates green, and “R” indicates red. Also, the remaining six LEDs 37, 3
9 to 43 are configured by green LEDs that emit green light.

As shown in FIG. 8, the four digit terminals DG1 to DG4 of the control circuit 52 are connected to resistors 53a to 53g.
Four transistors 54, for example, of the PNP type via 3d
a to 54d are connected to the respective bases. The five segment terminals SG1 to SG5 of the control circuit 52 are connected to the bases of five PNP transistors 54e to 54i via resistors 53e to 53i.

The four transistors 54a to 54d
Are connected to a DC power supply terminal 55 of 5 V, for example. Further, five transistors 54e to 54i
Are connected through resistors 53j to 53n, for example,
It is connected to a 7 V DC power supply terminal 56. And 4
Between each collector of the transistors 54a to 54d and each emitter of the five transistors 54e to 54i,
The 13 LEDs 31 to 43 (more precisely, 20 L
EDs 31a to 43) are connected in a matrix.

Specifically, the four transistors 54a to 54a
The LEDs 43, 42, 41, and 40 are connected between the collector of the transistor 54d and the emitter of the transistor 54e with the illustrated polarity. The LED 43 and the transistor 5
A resistor 53o is connected to the emitter of 4e. An LED 3 is connected between the collectors of the four transistors 54a to 54d and the emitter of the transistor 54f.
2a, 32b, 31a, 31b are connected with the polarity shown. LE is connected between the collectors of the four transistors 54a to 54d and the emitter of the transistor 54g.
D34a, 34b, 33a, 33b are connected with the polarity shown.

The four transistors 54a-54
The LEDs 36a, 36b, 35a and 35b are connected between the respective collectors of d and the emitter of the transistor 54h with the polarities shown. Four transistors 54a-
The LEDs 39, 38b, 38a, and 37 are connected between the collector of the transistor 54d and the emitter of the transistor 54i with the illustrated polarity. The five transistors 54
e to 54i, a resistor 5 is connected between each emitter and each base.
3p to 53t are connected.

In the case of the above configuration, for example, in order to light the LED 43, the digit terminal DG1 of the control circuit 52 is changed from the high level to the low level to turn on the transistor 54a, and the segment terminal SG1 of the control circuit 52 is changed from the high level to the low level. When the transistor 54e is turned on, the LED 43 is energized and emits light. The other LEDs can also emit light in the same manner by appropriately setting any of the digit terminals DG1 to DG4 of the control circuit 52 and any of the segment terminals SG1 to SG5 to a low level.

FIG. 9 also shows the control of the control circuit 52 for dynamically turning on the six LEDs 31 to 36 (specifically, the twelve LEDs 31a, 31b to 36a, and 36b) of the ring-shaped light emitting display 19. I will explain.
Here, the 12 LEDs 31a, 31b to 36a,
6 green LEDs 31a to 36a out of 36b
The energization ratio is, for example, 2 more than the red LEDs 31b to 36b.
The energization is controlled so as to be higher by about 5%. Hereinafter, a specific description will be given.

First, three green LEDs 32a, 34a, 3
In order to emit light from the terminal 6a, as shown in FIG. 9, the digit terminal DG1 is turned low (the transistor 54a is turned on) at the time t1, and the segment terminal SG on the a side (green side) is turned on.
2, SG3 and SG4 are low (transistors 54f to 54f).
h is turned on) and the three green LEDs 32a, 34a, 36
a is caused to emit light. The light emitting state is set to, for example, 2 ms
Subsequently, at time t2, the digit terminal DG1 is set high (the transistor 54a is turned off), and the three green LEDs 32a and 34 are turned on.
a, 36a are extinguished. At this time (at time t2), the segment terminals SG2, SG3, and SG4 on the a side (green side) are also turned high (the transistors 54f to 54h are turned off).

Next, three red ELDs 32b, 34b, 3
6b to emit light, the digit terminal DG2 at time t2
To low (transistor 54b is turned on), and b
The side (red side) segment terminals SG2, SG3, SG4 are set to low (transistors 54f to 54h are turned on), and the three red LEDs 32b, 34b, 36b emit light. Then, this light emitting state is continued for, for example, 1.5 ms, and at time t3, the digit terminal DG2 is set high (the transistor 54b is turned off) to extinguish the three red LEDs 32a, 34a, and 36a. The b-side (red side) segment terminal SG2,
SG3 and SG4 are set high at time t4 after a lapse of 2 ms. Thereby, the green LEDs 32a, 34a, 3
Red LED 32b, 34b, 36b
Is about 25% higher than the current supply ratio.

Further, the remaining three green LEDs 31a, 33
When light is emitted from the terminals a and 35a, the digit terminal DG3 is turned low (the transistor 54c is turned on) at time t4, and the segment terminals SG2, SG3, and S on the a side (green side) are set.
G4 is set to low (transistors 54f to 54h are turned on) to cause the three green LEDs 31a, 33a, and 35a to emit light. Then, this light emission state is continued for, for example, 2 ms, and at time t
At 5, the digit terminal DG3 is set high (the transistor 54c is turned off) to extinguish the three green LEDs 31a, 33a and 35a. At this time (at time t5), the segment terminals SG2, SG3, SG4 on the a side (green side) are also turned high (the transistors 54f to 54h are turned off).

Next, the remaining three red ELDs 31b and 33
When light is emitted from b and 35b, the digit terminal DG4 is turned low (the transistor 54d is turned on) at time t5, and the segment terminals SG2, SG3, and S on the b side (red side) are set.
G4 is turned low (transistors 54f to 54h are turned on) to cause the three red LEDs 31b, 33b, and 35b to emit light. Then, this light emitting state is continued for, for example, 1.5 ms, and at time t6, the digit terminal DG4 is set high (transistor 54).
d), the three red LEDs 31a, 33a, 3
5a is extinguished. Note that the segment terminal S on the b side (red side)
G2, SG3, and SG4 are set high (transistors 54f to 5f).
If 4h is turned off), the time is the time t7 after the lapse of 2 ms.

Then, actually, the six green LEDs 31a-31
When continuously lighting 36a, six red ELDs 31 are used.
While the b-36b is extinguished, the three green LEs described above are used.
It is configured to repeat only the energization control that causes D31a, 33a, and 35a to emit light for 2 ms and the energization control that causes the three green LEDs 32a, 34a, and 36a to emit light for 2 ms. As a result, the human eyes can see the six green LEDs 31a.
36a appear to be continuously lit. When the six red LEDs 31b to 36b are continuously turned on, three green LEDs 31a to 36a are extinguished and the three red LEDs 31b, 33b, and 35b emit light for 1.5 ms. Red LEDs 32b, 34b, 36
It is sufficient to repeat only the energization control for causing b to emit light for 1.5 ms.

When the six green LEDs 31a to 36a are blinked, for example, they are turned on for 0.5 seconds and then repeatedly turned off for 0.5 seconds, the above-mentioned six green LEDs 3a to 36a are repeated.
The continuous lighting control of 1a to 36a is executed for 0.5 seconds, and thereafter, the control for extinguishing the six green LEDs 31a to 36a is repeated for 0.5 seconds.

The remaining seven green LEDs 37, 38a,
By using digit terminals DG1 to DG4 and segment terminals SG1 and SG5, dynamic lighting control of 39 to 43 and the remaining one red LED 38b is executed in substantially the same manner as the lighting control described above. Have been. Also in this case, the green LEDs 37, 38a, 39-
43 has an energization ratio of, for example, 25 compared to the red LED 38b.
The energization control is performed so as to increase by about%.

Next, the ring-shaped light emitting display 1 of the operation panel 17
The display operation of the display device such as 9 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 17, specifically, how the display mode changes as the washing operation proceeds. First, in a state where the power switch 18 is turned off (when the power is not turned on), all the indicators such as the ring-shaped light emitting indicator 19 are turned off as shown in FIG.

When the power switch 18 is turned on, the power is turned on, and as shown in FIG. 11, the ring-shaped design portion 29c of the ring-shaped light emitting display 19 flashes in red and the stroke display 24 is turned on. Three small circle pattern parts 29
k, 29l, and 29m are lit in green. The red flashing of the ring-shaped light emitting display 19 allows the user to start the stop switch 2 inside the ring-shaped light emitting display 19.
It is clear and easy to see that 0 or the stroke selection switch 21 has to be operated.

When the start temporary stop switch 20 is operated in the state shown in FIG. 11, the washing operation (first washing operation) of the standard washing course is started, and as shown in FIG. Is lighted in green, and only the small circle design part 29k corresponding to “wash” among the three small circle design parts 29k, 291 and 29m of the stroke display 24 is green. , And the remaining two small circle design portions 29j and 29k continue to be lit in green as they are.

Subsequently, when the operation of detecting the weight of the laundry (weight sensing) is performed and completed, a required detergent amount is calculated in accordance with the result of the weight detection, and the calculation result is displayed on the detergent amount display 22. Is displayed. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the rectangular design portion 29f of the detergent amount indicator 22 is lit in green. Thereby, the user can put in the detergent of the displayed detergent amount.

During the continuation of the washing operation, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 13, the state of the same display mode as in FIG. 13 continues. Thereafter, when the washing operation is completed and the rinsing operation is started, as shown in FIG.
And the small circle design part 29k corresponding to
The small circle design portion 291 corresponding to “rinse” is flashed in green, and the remaining small circle design portion 29m is continuously lit in green. It should be noted that the ring-shaped design portion 29c of the ring-shaped light emitting display 19 is continuously lit in green. The rectangular design portions 29f, 29g, and 29h of the detergent amount display 22 are turned off.

Further, when the rinsing operation is completed and the dehydration operation is started, as shown in FIG. 16, the small circular design portion 291 corresponding to "rinse" on the stroke display 24 is turned off and the "dehydration" is performed. Is blinked and illuminated in green. In addition, the annular light emitting display 1
The ring-shaped design part 29c of No. 9 continues to be lit in green. When the spin-drying operation is completed, that is, when the washing operation is completed, as shown in FIG.
Is turned off, and the ring-shaped design portion 29c of the ring-shaped light emitting display 19 is turned on in red. This indicates that the washing operation has ended. When the power switch 18 is turned off, the power can be turned off, and the power returns to the power-off state shown in FIG.

When the operation is temporarily stopped by operating the start / stop switch 20 during the washing operation, the ring-shaped design portion 29c of the ring-shaped light emitting display 19 is configured to blink in green. . Then, in this display mode, when the start / stop switch 20 is operated again, the washing operation is restarted, and the annular light-emitting indicator 19 is displayed.
Is lighted in green.

When it is desired to execute a dry mark course (a washing operation course using a dry detergent), in the state shown in FIG. 11 (power-on state), the dry switch 23 is operated, and then the start temporary stop switch 20 is operated. Then, the washing operation may be started. in this case,
When the dry switch 23 is operated, the small circular design portion 29j of the dry display 23a is illuminated in green. The lighting of the dry indicator 23a indicates that the dry mark course has been selected.

On the other hand, when it is desired to execute only one of the washing operation, the rinsing operation, and the dehydrating operation, the stroke selection switch 21 may be operated while the power is turned on as shown in FIG. In this case, when the stroke selection switch 21 is operated once, only the small circle design portion 29k corresponding to "wash" on the stroke display 24 comes on, and the remaining two small circle design portions 291 and 29m are turned on. Turns off. This indicates that the "washing" operation has been selected. In this state, if the start temporary stop switch 20 is operated, only the washing operation can be started and executed.

Further, when the stroke selection switch 21 is operated twice in the state shown in FIG. 11, only the small circle pattern portion 291 corresponding to "Rinse" of the stroke display 24 comes on, and the remaining two Are turned off. Thus, only the “rinse” operation can be selected and executed in the same manner. When the stroke selection switch 21 is operated three times in the state shown in FIG. 11, only the small circle pattern portion 29m corresponding to "dehydration" of the stroke display 24 comes on, and the remaining two small circles are turned on. Shape design part 29
k and 291 turn off. Thus, only the “dehydration” operation can be selectively executed in the same manner.

On the other hand, as the rinsing operation in the standard selection operation course, "water rinsing"
In the state shown in FIG. 11, when the stroke selection switch 21 is operated four times, the small circle symbol portion 291 corresponding to “Rinse” of the stroke indicator 24 is lit in red, and the remaining Two small circle-shaped design parts 29k, 29
m lights up in green. As a result, it is understood that "water rinsing" has been selected and set. By operating the start temporary stop switch 20 in this state, the standard selection operation course in which "water rinsing" has been set can be started and executed.

Next, a start / stop switch 20, a stroke selection switch 21, and a power switch 1 on the operation panel 17
The operation of executing a special operation different from the normal washing operation by performing a special operation on the operation No. 8 will be described. First, an operation for executing a special operation to be used (disclosed) by a general user will be described. As such special driving, do not sound the buzzer (buzzer off)
And processing for correcting the water level (fine adjustment of the laundry weight detection operation, that is, fine adjustment of the weight sensor).

First, when setting not to sound the buzzer, turning on the power switch 18 while pressing the start temporary stop switch 20 completes the input of the buzzer off setting. When the power switch 18 is turned on while the stroke selection switch 21 is being pressed, the above processing is completed.

Next, an operation for executing a special operation that is not disclosed to the user, that is, a non-public operation will be described. Here, a description will be given of a level of driving that is performed by a service person among the above-mentioned closed driving. The level of operation to be performed by a serviceman includes a water supply / drainage operation (water drainage, inspection and dehydration) and a unit inspection (individual output and sensor display).

Specifically, the start temporary stop switch 2
When the power switch 18 is turned on while simultaneously pressing the 0 and stroke selection switches 21 (that is, three switches 2
When 0, 21 and 18 are operated simultaneously), the above-mentioned non-public operation is put into an execution standby state (enters a non-public operation mode).
Subsequently, if the stroke selection switch 21 is kept pressed for 3 seconds,
When the above-mentioned closed operation can be executed (mode completion state), and then the stroke selection switch 21 is pressed, the water supply / drain operation starts. Here, when the start temporary stop switch 20 is pressed instead of the stroke selection switch 21, the unit inspection is started.

A description will be given of an operation of a level used in a product assembly line among the closed operations. The operation at the level used in the product assembly line includes a first line automatic inspection mode (intermediate inspection), a second line automatic inspection mode (final inspection), and a mechanical rank detection mode (individual).
And a washing aging mode (individual).

In order to execute these operations, when the power switch 18 is turned on while simultaneously pressing the start / stop switch 20 and the stroke selection switch 21, the above-described four types of non-public operations are in a standby state (non-public operation). Enter public driving mode). Subsequently, when the stroke selection switch 21 is pressed, the start temporary stop switch 20 is pressed, and the stroke selection switch 21 is further pressed, the above four types of non-public operations can be executed (the mode is completed). . The operation of pressing the stroke selection switch 21, the start pause switch 20, and the stroke selection switch 21 is as follows.
If it is not executed within 5 seconds, it is invalidated (canceled). Thereafter, by pressing the stroke selection switch 21, one of the above four types of closed operation is selected.

Specifically, when the stroke selection switch 21 is pressed once, the first line automatic inspection mode is selected, and when the stroke selection switch 21 is pressed twice, the second line automatic inspection mode is selected. When the stroke selection switch 21 is pressed three times, the mechanical rank detection mode is selected, and when the stroke selection switch 21 is pressed four times, the washing aging mode is selected. Subsequently, when the start pause switch 20 is pressed,
Execution of each of the selected modes is started.

Next, a description will be given of an operation of a level used in unit assembly inspection and product development evaluation among non-public operations. The operation at the level used for unit assembly inspection and product development evaluation includes unit automatic inspection mode, power supply voltage zero-point adjustment mode + external adjustment port input, and non-volatile memory write mode (sensor external adjustment value panel operation change)
And five types of non-public operations, namely, a nonvolatile memory data display mode and various sensor data display modes.

In order to execute these operations, the TP (test pin) provided on the printed wiring board is short-circuited, and then the power switch 18 is pressed while simultaneously pressing the start / stop switch 20 and the stroke selection switch 21.
When the is turned on, the above-mentioned five types of non-public operation are put into an execution standby state (entering a non-public operation mode). Subsequently, by pressing the stroke selection switch 21, one of the five types of closed operation is selected.

Specifically, when the stroke selection switch 21 is pressed once, the unit automatic inspection mode is selected. When the stroke selection switch 21 is pressed twice, the power supply voltage zero point adjustment mode +
When the external adjustment port input is selected, the stroke selection switch 21
Is pressed three times, the nonvolatile memory writing mode is selected. When the stroke selection switch 21 is pressed four times, the nonvolatile memory data display mode is selected, and the stroke selection switch 21 is selected.
When is pressed five times, various sensor data display modes are selected. Subsequently, when the start pause switch 20 is pressed,
Execution of each of the selected modes is started.

According to this embodiment having such a configuration, for example, the start temporary stop switch 20 and the stroke selection switch 21 are provided inside the annular light emitting display 19 as operation switches, so that the user can operate the operation switches. If desired (for example, when the power is turned on), the ring-shaped light emitting display 1
By flashing (e.g., blinking) 9, it is possible to clearly teach the user the operation switch desired to be operated. This makes it easier for the user to understand the operation procedure of the operation switch, thereby improving operability.

In the above embodiment, the start / stop switch 20 and the stroke selection switch 21 are provided as operation switches inside the ring-shaped light emitting display 19, and the start / stop switch 20 is indicated to be operable. In the display area 29c, the display area 29d that indicates that the stroke selection switch 21 can be operated is embedded so as to be embedded. This makes it possible to clearly recognize a plurality (specifically, two) of operation switches that are indispensable to the user, and to further clearly identify the more important operation switch, that is, the start / stop switch 20. Can be recognized.

Further, in the above embodiment, the annular light emitting display 1
9 is a light emitting element, for example, six LEDs 31 to 36
(Accurately, twelve LEDs 31a-36b) and a first LED support 47 for accommodating and supporting these LEDs, and the first LED support 47 has an elasticity for returning operation of the operation switch. The pieces 47i and 47j are provided integrally. Thus, the ring-shaped light emitting display 19 having a ring-shaped light-emitting area, and two operation switches 20 and 21 inside the ring-shaped light emitting display 19.
Can be easily realized with a simple configuration.

Further, in the above embodiment, the start temporary stop switch 20 as the operation switch is replaced by the tact switch 44 as a switch element and the tact switch 4
4 and a switch pressing body 49 for pressing the operation element 44a, and the shape of the switch pressing body 49 is configured to be substantially the same as that of the annular light emitting display 19.
As a result, almost the entire area inside the ring-shaped light emitting display 19 can be seen as an operation button area of the start / stop switch 20, and the start / stop switch 20 can be configured as a rather large switch.

Further, in the above embodiment, the control circuit 52 (light emission control means) changes the light emission cycle or light emission color of the ring-shaped light emitting display 19 according to the driving operation state. Thereby, the user can clearly recognize the driving operation state according to the light emission cycle or light emission color of the annular light emitting display 19, and the usability is improved.

Further, in the above embodiment, the annular light emitting display 1
9 to emit a plurality of colors, for example, green and red, each LED 31 of the ring-shaped light emitting display 19 according to the emission color.
The configuration is such that the energization ratio to a to 36b is changed.
Specifically, the green LEDs 31a to 36a are the red LEDs 3
Since the energization ratio is controlled to be, for example, about 25% higher than 1b to 36b, the green LEDs 31a to 36a and the red L
The brightness of the EDs 31b to 36b becomes almost uniform, and the green (green LEDs 31a to 36a) and the red (red LEDs 31b to 36b)
The visibility in b) can be set to be substantially the same. Regarding the visibility, the same effect can be obtained for the green LED 38a and the red LED 38b corresponding to the “rinse” of the stroke display 24.

Further, in the above embodiment, when attaching the first LED support 47 to the first case 26,
The engaging protrusion 47e of the first LED support 47 is engaged with an engaging hole formed in the rear wall 26a of the first case 26, and the mounting protrusion 47d of the first LED support 47 is screwed 50. Is fixed to the bottom wall 26b of the first case 26 with the printed wiring board 30 interposed therebetween. Therefore, the first LED support 47 is connected to one screw 50.
It can be securely attached without lifting.
In addition, when attaching the second KED support 48 to the first case 26, the configuration is the same, and the same effect is obtained.

In the above embodiment, the start / stop switch 20, the stroke selection switch 21, and the power switch 1
8 and simultaneously operate, the operation is in a standby state for execution of a secret operation that is not disclosed to the user, and thereafter, when a predetermined operation switch operation is performed, the secret operation is executed.
When an operation other than the predetermined operation switch operation is performed, the secret driving is canceled. With this configuration, if the user randomly operates the operation switches 18, 20, 21 of the operation panel 17, the standby operation may be in a state of waiting for the execution of the private operation.
Further, it is almost impossible for the user to perform the predetermined operation switch operation by random operation. Therefore, the execution of the closed operation by the user can be almost certainly prevented.

In the above embodiment, the annular light emitting display 19 is used.
To emit green and red, for example, as a plurality of colors.
You may comprise so that it may emit more than a color. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the present invention is applied to the configuration of a fully automatic washing machine that also stores water in the outer tub 2. Alternatively, the present invention may be applied to the configuration of a fully automatic washing machine that does not store water in the outer tub. good.

Further, in the above embodiment, the operation panel 17 is provided with the dry switch 23 and the dry display 23a. However, in the case of a model that does not need to execute the dry mark course, the dry switch 23 and the dry display 23a are provided. 23a can be omitted. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the start / stop switch 20 and the stroke selection switch 21 are provided inside the annular light emitting display 19 as two operation switches.
However, the present invention is not limited to this, and only one start switch may be provided as one operation switch, or three or more operation switches may be provided.

[0089]

As apparent from the above description, the present invention can provide the following effects. That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, since the operation switch is provided inside the ring-shaped light emitting display in which the light emitting region forms a ring, the operation procedure of the operation switch can be easily understood and the operability can be improved. Can be.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, a start stop switch and a stroke selection switch are provided as operation switches inside the annular light emitting display, and a display area for displaying that the start stop switch is operable. , A display area for displaying that the stroke selection switch can be operated is arranged, so that the two operation switches indispensable to the user can be clearly recognized, and Among them, a more important operation switch, that is, a start temporary stop switch can be more clearly recognized.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the ring-shaped light emitting display has a light emitting element and a storage support member for storing and supporting the light emitting element, and the storage support member is used for returning the operation switch. Since the elastic piece portion is integrally provided, a ring-shaped light emitting display having a ring-shaped light emitting region and at least one or more operation switches are arranged inside the ring light emitting display. , Can be easily realized with a simple configuration.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the operation switch has a switch element and a switch pressing body for pressing the switch element, and the shape of the switch pressing body is substantially the same as that of the annular light emitting display. Since they are formed in the same shape, almost the entire area inside the ring-shaped light emitting display can be seen as the operation button area of the start / stop switch, and the start / stop switch can be configured as a rather large switch.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the light emission control means changes the light emission cycle or light emission color of the ring light emitting display according to the driving operation state. According to the color, the user can clearly recognize the driving operation state, and the usability can be improved.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, when a plurality of colors are emitted by the annular light emitting display, the emission control means changes the energization ratio to the light emitting elements of the annular light emitting display in accordance with the emission color. With this configuration, when a plurality of colors are emitted, the brightness of each color becomes substantially uniform, so that the visibility of each color can be made substantially uniform.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, by simultaneously operating the start temporary stop switch, the stroke selection switch, and the power switch, a standby state for performing a non-public operation that is not disclosed to the user is established. When the operation is performed, a secret operation is performed, and when an operation other than a predetermined operation switch operation is performed, the operation control unit cancels the secret operation. With such a configuration, even if the user randomly operates the operation switch on the operation panel, it is almost impossible to execute the secret driving, and the execution of the secret driving by the user can be almost surely prevented. .

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a partial top view of an operation panel showing one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a vertical side view of a fully automatic washing machine.

FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a partially exploded perspective view of a panel main body.

FIG. 5 shows a first case, a first LED support, and a second LED.
Top view of ED support

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a first LED support and a switch pressing body.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the switch pressing body.

FIG. 8 is an electric circuit diagram

FIG. 9 is a time chart.

FIG. 10 is a partial top view of the operation panel when the power is off.

FIG. 11 is a partial top view of the operation panel when the power is turned on.

FIG. 12 is a partial top view of an operation panel when a start pause switch is operated.

FIG. 13 is a partial top view of the operation panel when the detergent amount is displayed.

FIG. 14 is a partial top view of the operation panel during the washing operation.

FIG. 15 is a partial top view of the operation panel during the rinsing operation.

FIG. 16 is a partial top view of the operation panel during the spin-drying operation.

FIG. 17 is a partial top view of the operation panel at the end of the washing operation.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 is an outer box, 2 is an outer tank, 3 is a rotary tank, 4 is a stirring body, 8 is a drain valve, 12 is a motor, 13 is a drive mechanism, 15 is a top cover, 16 is a lid, 17 is an operation panel, 18 Is a power switch, 19 is a ring-shaped light emitting display, 20 is a start / stop switch (operation switch), 21 is a stroke selection switch (operation switch), 22 is a detergent amount display, 23 is a dry switch, 23a is a dry display, 24 is a process indicator,
25 is a panel main body, 26 is a first case, 28 is a panel main member, 29 is a decorative plate, 29c is a ring-shaped design portion, 29
d is a display area, 29e is a display area, 29f, 29g, 2
9h is a rectangular design part, 29i is a display area, 29j, 29
k, 29l, 29m are small circle design parts, 30 is a printed wiring board, 31 to 43 are LEDs (light emitting elements), 44 is a tact switch (switch element), 47 is a first LED support (storage support member), 47i and 47j are elastic pieces, 49
Is a switch pressing body, 51 is a printed wiring board, 52 is a control circuit (operation control means, light emission control means), 54a to 54a
i indicates a transistor.

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A washing machine comprising an operation panel provided with an operation switch and a display, wherein an annular light-emitting display provided on the operation panel has a ring-shaped light emitting area, and the ring on the operation panel. A washing machine comprising: an operation switch provided inside a light emitting display. 2. A step stop switch and a stroke selection switch are provided inside the annular light emitting display as operation switches, and the stroke is displayed in a display area for displaying that the start pause switch is operable. The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising a display area for displaying that the selection switch can be operated. 3. An annular light-emitting display device comprising: a light-emitting element; and a storage support member for storing and supporting the light-emitting element, and the storage support member includes an elastic piece for returning operation of an operation switch. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein is provided integrally. 4. The operation switch is configured to have a switch element and a switch pressing body for pressing the switch element, and the switch pressing body is configured to have substantially the same shape as the annular light emitting display. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: 5. The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising light emission control means for changing a light emission cycle or a light emission color of the annular light emitting display according to a driving operation state. 6. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the light emission control means changes an energization ratio to a light emitting element of the annular light emitting display according to a light emission color. 7. By simultaneously operating a start pause switch, a stroke selection switch, and a power switch,
It becomes a standby state for execution of a secret operation that is not disclosed to the user, and thereafter, when a predetermined operation switch operation is performed, the secret operation is performed, and when an operation other than the predetermined operation switch operation is performed, the operation is performed. 3. An operation control means for canceling secret operation.
The washing machine as described.