washing machine

Abstract

The present invention improves cleaning performance. The washing machine comprises an outer casing, a tub, a rotary drum, a water supply path for supplying water to the tub, a water supply valve, a drain path for draining water from the tub, a drain valve for opening and closing the drain path, an automatic detergent dispensing device for automatically dispensing detergent into the tub, and a control device capable of executing a series of washing operations, including a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and a spin cycle, by controlling the water supply valve, the drain valve, and the automatic detergent dispensing device. The control device is capable of executing a pre-wash cycle, in which the automatic detergent dispensing device dispenses detergent into the tub, the water supply valve is opened, and water is supplied to the tub and washing is performed, and then the drain valve is opened to drain the wash water containing dirt from the drain path; and a main wash cycle, in which, after the pre-wash cycle is performed, the automatic detergent dispensing device dispenses detergent into the tub, the water supply valve is opened, and water is supplied to the tub, and then washing is performed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to washing machines. Background Technology

[0002] In the past, for example, to prevent laundry from darkening, there have been methods to efficiently improve cleaning performance by including a pre-wash step. In this case, the wash water containing dirt from the pre-wash is drained before the main wash, so, for example, twice the necessary amount of detergent is added to the tub during the pre-wash to ensure sufficient detergent for the main wash. Thus, even after draining the tub after the pre-wash, detergent residue remains in the tub during the main wash. However, if more detergent is used during the pre-wash depending on the degree of soiling of the laundry, the effective amount of detergent residue during the main wash is reduced, resulting in insufficient cleaning effect.

[0003] Existing technical documents:

[0004] Patent documents:

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-75505 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, a washing machine that can improve cleaning performance is provided.

[0007] The washing machine of this embodiment includes: an outer casing; a water tank disposed inside the outer casing; a rotatable drum disposed inside the water tank; a water supply path for supplying water from an external water source to the water tank; a water supply valve for opening and closing the water supply path; a drain path for draining water from the water tank; a drain valve for opening and closing the drain path; an automatic detergent dispensing device for automatically dispensing detergent into the water tank; and a control device that, by controlling the water supply valve, the drain valve, and the automatic detergent dispensing device, can perform a washing process and a rinsing process. The control device is capable of performing a series of cleaning operations, including a dehydration process, and can execute: a pre-wash process, in which the detergent is added to the water tank from the automatic detergent dispensing device and the water supply valve is opened to supply water and perform washing actions in the water tank, and then the drain valve is opened to drain the washing water containing dirt from the drain path; and a formal washing process, in which the washing action is performed after the pre-wash process, after the detergent is added to the water tank from the automatic detergent dispensing device and the water supply valve is opened to supply water to the water tank.

[0008] Invention effects:

[0009] The washing machine according to this embodiment can improve cleaning performance. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of a washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical configuration of the control device for a washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of setting the amount of detergent added in a washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the overall process of washing operation of a washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of the specific details of each step in the washing machine according to the first embodiment, with and without performing a pre-wash process.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a washing process in a washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control content during the pre-wash process of a washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control content during a formal washing process in a washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 9 The figure shows another example of the setting example of the detergent dosage for the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 10 The figure shows another example of the setting example of the detergent dosage for the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing an example of a soaking treatment setting for a washing machine according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates an example of a washing machine according to the third embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control content in the pre-wash process of a washing machine according to the third embodiment.

[0023] Figure 14This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control content in the pre-wash process of a washing machine according to the fourth embodiment.

[0024] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0025] 10…Washing machine, 11…Outer casing, 12…Water tank, 13…Rotating drum, 22…Water supply path, 23…Water supply valve, 15…Drainage path, 16…Drain valve, 30…Automatic treatment agent dispensing device, 50…Control device, 52…Soil detection and treatment unit, 53…Pre-wash treatment unit, 54…Pre-wash cycle adjustment unit, 55…Dispensing unit, 56…Formal washing unit, 57…Setting unit Detailed Implementation

[0026] The following is a reference to the appendix. Figure 1 The embodiments of the present invention will be described below. Furthermore, in each embodiment, substantially the same elements are labeled with the same reference numerals and descriptions are omitted.

[0027] (First Implementation)

[0028] Reference Figures 1 to 8 The first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 The washing machine 10 shown is a front-loading washing machine with the rotating axis of the drum 13 pointing horizontally or inclined downwards towards the rear. Alternatively, the washing machine 10 can also be a washing machine with the rotating axis of the drum 13 pointing vertically. The washing machine 10 of this embodiment includes an outer casing 11, a water tank 12, a rotating drum 13, a motor 14, a drain path 15, a drain valve 16, a circulation path 17, a circulation pump 18, and a heater 19. Furthermore, in... Figure 1 In this design, the side facing the washing machine 10, i.e., the lower vertical side, is designated as the lower side of the washing machine 10, and the side opposite to the facing surface, i.e., the upper vertical side, is designated as the upper side of the washing machine 10. Furthermore, the side facing the user from the front of the washing machine 10 is designated as the front side of the washing machine 10, and the side opposite the user, i.e., the back side of the washing machine 10, is designated as the rear side of the washing machine 10.

[0029] The outer casing 11 is formed into a generally rectangular box shape, for example, using steel plate. The water tank 12 is disposed inside the outer casing 11 and is elastically supported by a suspension (not shown). The rotating drum 13 is disposed inside the water tank 12 in a rotatable manner. Both the water tank 12 and the rotating drum 13 are formed into a so-called bottomed cylindrical shape, which is an opening on one side (front) of the cylindrical shape and a bottom on the other side (rear).

[0030] In addition, the rotating drum 13 has lifting ribs 131 and multiple holes 132. Multiple lifting ribs 131, for example three, are provided on the inner peripheral wall of the rotating drum 13, and have the function of agitating and lifting the laundry contained within the rotating drum 13. The holes 132 are formed over the entire area of ​​the inner peripheral wall of the rotating drum 13, and for example, function as water inlets / outlets during the dehydration process.

[0031] The electric motor 14 is located on the outer bottom of the water tank 12. The electric motor 14 is connected to the rotating drum 13 and directly drives the rotating drum 13 to rotate. The electric motor 14 is not shown in detail, but may be, for example, a brushless direct-drive motor capable of changing its speed. Furthermore, the electric motor 14 is not limited to a direct-drive motor and may also be configured with a clutch mechanism and a brake device, etc.

[0032] Drainage path 15 is a path for discharging water stored in the water tank 12 to the outside of the washing machine 10. Drainage path 15 is, for example, made of a flexible drain hose, one end of which is connected to the drain valve 16 and the other end of which is led out to the outside of the washing machine 10.

[0033] The drain valve 16 is a liquid-use on / off valve that can be opened and closed electromagnetically. The drain valve 16 is located between the drain outlet 121 at the bottom of the water tank 12 and the drain path 15. The drain valve 16 opens and closes the drain path 15 based on a control signal from the control device 50.

[0034] A circulation path 17 is located outside the water tank 12. The circulation path 17 is a path for drawing water stored in the water tank 12 and resupplying the drawn water from the top of the water tank 12 back into the water tank 12. One end of the circulation path 17 is connected to a drain outlet 121 via a circulation pump 18, and the other end is connected to a nozzle section 171 located at the top of the water tank 12. Although not shown in detail, the nozzle section 171 is configured to release water discharged from the nozzle section 171 towards the center of the water tank 12 in a spray pattern.

[0035] A circulation pump 18 is installed on the circulation path 17. If the circulation pump 18 is driven with the drain path 15 closed by the drain valve 16, the circulation pump 18 draws water from the water tank 12 through the drain port 121 and injects water back into the water tank 12 through the nozzle 171. Thus, the circulation pump 18 circulates the water stored in the water tank 12 through the circulation path 17.

[0036] A heater 19 is located at the bottom of the water tank 12. The heater 19 has the function of heating the water supplied to the water tank 12 to make it warm water. As a result, the washing machine 10 can use warm water to perform the washing or rinsing process.

[0037] Additionally, washing machine 10 Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the device includes a warm air supply path 61, a heating device 62, and a blower 63. The warm air supply path 61 is located outside the water tank 12 and functions to supply warm air for drying into the water tank 12. In this embodiment, the warm air supply path 61 is configured as a circulating air path that circulates between the inside and outside of the water tank 12. In this case, the warm air supply path 61 draws in air from the water tank 12 and the rotating drum 13, and then supplies the drawn-in air back into the water tank 12 from the upper part. One end of the warm air supply path 61 is connected to the lower end near the back side of the water tank 12, and the other end is connected to the upper front end near the front side of the water tank 12.

[0038] The heating device 62 and the blower 63 are located midway through the warm air supply path 61. The heating device 62 has the function of heating the air in the warm air supply path 61 to generate warm air that is supplied from the warm air supply path 61 to the water tank 12. The warm air generated by the heating device 62 is supplied to the water tank 12 by the blower 63. In this case, the heating method of the heating device 62 can be, for example, a heat pump type or a heater type.

[0039] Additionally, the washing machine 10 includes a connection port 21, a water supply path 22, a water supply valve 23, and an automatic detergent dispensing device 30. The connection port 21 is connected via a hose 100 to an external water source, such as a faucet in a tap. The water supply path 22 is a path for supplying water from an external water source to the water tank 12 and the rotating drum 13. One end of the water supply path 22 is connected to the water supply valve 23, and the other end is connected to the water tank 12. The water supply valve 23 is a liquid-operated valve capable of being opened and closed electromagnetically. The water supply valve 23 is located between the connection port 21 and the water supply path 22. The water supply valve 23 opens and closes the water supply path 22 based on a control signal from the control device 50.

[0040] The automatic detergent dispensing device 30 has the following functions: it stores detergent and other detergents required for multiple cleaning operations, and automatically dispenses the necessary amount of detergent into the water tank 12 as the cleaning operation progresses. The automatic detergent dispensing device 30 is, for example, located on the upper part of the outer casing 11 and connected to the water supply path 22. Water supplied from an external water source mixes directly with the detergent supplied from the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 within the water supply path 22 and is then supplied to the water tank 12.

[0041] In this case, the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 is configured to automatically supply detergent pre-stored in the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 into the water tank 12 using a piston pump (not shown). Alternatively, the washing machine 10 may also be configured to include a manual dispensing device in addition to the automatic detergent dispensing device 30, allowing the user to manually add the detergent required for one wash cycle before starting the wash cycle. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the detergent includes, for example, detergents such as powder detergent and liquid detergent, as well as finishing agents such as fabric softener and fragrance. In this case, the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 corresponds to liquid detergent and liquid finishing agents, while the manual dispensing device corresponds to both liquid detergent and powder detergent, as well as liquid finishing agents.

[0042] Washing machine 10 Figure 2 As shown, the device includes an operation panel 41, a current sensor 42, a water level sensor 43, a dirt detection unit 44, and a control device 50. The operation panel 41 has a display section and an operation section, accepting user input and displaying the input operation content and operating status. The current sensor 42 can detect the current flowing through the motor 14. The water level sensor 43 can detect the water level in the water tank 12.

[0043] The dirt detection unit 44 is provided, for example, inside the water tank 12 or in the circulation path 17. The dirt detection unit 44 is capable of measuring the degree of dirt in the washing water. In this case, although the dirt detection unit 44 is not shown in detail, it can be, for example, constructed from a turbidity sensor. The turbidity sensor, for example, has the function of measuring the turbidity of the washing water by measuring the transmittance of light relative to the washing water and the conductivity of the washing water.

[0044] The control device 50 is configured, for example, as a microcomputer with storage areas such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and rewritable flash memory (not shown), and controls the overall operation of the washing machine 10. The control device 50 is electrically connected to a motor 14, a drain valve 16, a circulation pump 18, a heater 19, a water supply valve 23, an operation panel 41, a current sensor 42, a water level sensor 43, a dirt detection unit 44, a heating device 62, and a blower 63. These components are controlled by the control device 50.

[0045] Furthermore, the control device 50 virtually implements the weight detection processing unit 51, the dirt detection processing unit 52, the pre-wash processing unit 53, the pre-wash number adjustment processing unit 54, the dispensing processing unit 55, the formal washing processing unit 56, and the setting processing unit 57 by executing a control program in the CPU. Alternatively, the control device 50 can implement these processing units 51-57 using hardware such as integrated circuits, or through a combination of software and hardware.

[0046] The weight detection processing unit 51 is capable of performing weight detection processing. This weight detection processing includes detecting the weight of the laundry inside the drum 13, which is typically performed before the spin-drying process. The weight detection processing unit 51 performs this process at the initial stage of the washing operation, specifically before the water supply step, detecting the weight of the laundry in its dry state, i.e., without the supplied water. For example, the weight detection processing unit 51 rotates the drum 13 at a low speed, and at this time, the weight of the laundry is detected by measuring the q-axis current of the motor 14 using the current sensor 42. Alternatively, the weight detection processing unit 51 may also be configured to directly physically measure the weight of the laundry inside the drum 13 using a weighing scale or the like.

[0047] The dirt detection and processing unit 52 is capable of performing dirt detection and processing. The dirt detection and processing includes processing that detects the degree of dirt in the washing water in the water tank 12 based on, for example, the turbidity of the washing water measured by the dirt detection unit 44.

[0048] The pre-wash treatment unit 53 is capable of performing a pre-wash treatment. The pre-wash treatment includes the following steps: after adding detergent from the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 into the water tank 12 and opening the water supply valve 23 to perform water supply and washing operations in the water tank 12, the drain valve 16 is opened to drain the wash water containing dirt through the drain path 15. Then, the rotating drum 13 is rotated to dehydrate the laundry inside the rotating drum 13. In other words, the pre-wash treatment includes washing with detergent-dissolved wash water, followed by draining and dehydration.

[0049] Here, regarding the washing operation, in the case of a front-loading washing machine, it refers to the action of repeatedly rotating the drum 13 in both forward and reverse directions at a predetermined speed, for example, 50 rpm, for a predetermined time, for example, 20 seconds each. On the other hand, in the case of a shaft-driven washing machine, it refers to the action of repeatedly rotating the agitator blades (not shown) in both forward and reverse directions at a predetermined speed, for example, 50 rpm, for a predetermined time, for example, 20 seconds each. Moreover, the pre-wash process can be performed multiple times during the washing operation. Therefore, by performing multiple pre-wash processes, it is possible to achieve a state where dirt can be properly removed from the laundry, thereby improving washing efficiency. Furthermore, the pre-wash process is not limited to a configuration where spin-drying is performed after draining; it can also be configured such that spin-drying is not performed after draining, but instead the washing process continues.

[0050] In addition, the pre-washing process includes soaking the laundry in the wash water in the tub 12 for a specified time, such as one hour. This allows the detergent to fully penetrate the fibers of the laundry, making it easier to remove dirt adhering to the laundry.

[0051] The pre-wash cycle adjustment processing unit 54 is capable of performing a pre-wash cycle adjustment process. This process includes adjusting the number of pre-wash cycles based on the degree of soiling in the washing water, as determined by soiling detection. Therefore, the number of pre-wash cycles can be adjusted according to the degree of soiling in the washing water within the water tank 12, thus enabling efficient pre-wash processing.

[0052] The dispensing unit 55 is capable of performing dispensing processes. These processes include, in cases where multiple pre-washing processes have been performed, including a soaking action in subsequent pre-washing processes. Thus, the first pre-washing process is performed to remove solid dirt, such as mud, from the laundry, and the subsequent soaking action in the second and subsequent pre-washing processes allows the detergent to fully penetrate the fibers of the laundry even when solid dirt has been removed. This makes it easier to remove dirt from the laundry.

[0053] The formal washing unit 56 is capable of performing the formal washing process. The formal washing process includes adding detergent from the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 to the water tank 12 after a pre-wash treatment, opening the water supply valve 23 to supply water to the water tank 12, and then performing the washing operation. Thus, by adding detergent from the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 to the water tank 12 during the formal washing process, an appropriate amount of detergent can be supplied to the water tank 12, improving cleaning performance. Furthermore, since the detergent stored in the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 is automatically added, the user does not need to manually add detergent, thus maintaining user convenience.

[0054] The setting processing unit 57 is capable of performing setting processing. This setting processing includes setting the amount of detergent added during the pre-wash and main wash processes based on the content of the washing operation or user settings. In this case, the setting processing also includes a correction process that adjusts the amount of detergent added during the main wash process based on the number of pre-wash processes performed during the washing cycle. Specifically, the correction process includes, for example, adjusting the amount of detergent added during the main wash process when the weight of the laundry is constant. Figure 3 As shown, depending on the degree of soiling of the laundry, the more times the pre-wash treatment is performed, the less detergent is added to the water tank 12 during the main wash process. Therefore, even with an increased number of pre-wash treatments, the overall detergent dosage used in the washing process can be minimized, and the increase in water volume during rinsing can be suppressed.

[0055] Furthermore, the setting process includes setting different amounts of detergent in the pre-wash and main wash processes. Moreover, the setting process also includes setting the amount of detergent in the pre-wash process to be less than or equal to the amount in the main wash process. Therefore, detergent can be added to the water tank 12 in an appropriate amount during either the pre-wash or main wash process, thus improving cleaning performance.

[0056] Furthermore, if a large amount of detergent is used in the washing process, a larger amount of water is required in the subsequent rinsing process to remove the detergent residue. In contrast, by keeping the amount of detergent used in the pre-wash process to be the same or less than that used in the main washing process, the overall detergent dosage used in the washing process can be minimized even with the pre-wash, thus preventing an increase in the amount of water used during rinsing.

[0057] The following also refers to Figure 3 This section illustrates an example of the amount of detergent used in the washing process. Figure 3 Regarding detergent dosage, a dosage of 1 is set for the formal washing process when the amount of dirt on the laundry (i.e., the level of dirt in the wash water) is standard and the weight of the laundry is medium, for example, 5 kg to 6 kg. Detergent dosages under various conditions are shown proportionally. In this case, the minimum detergent dosage is 0.5, but this represents the minimum amount of detergent required to achieve a cleaning effect. This allows for an increase in the number of pre-wash treatments as the level of dirt in the wash water increases, effectively improving cleaning performance, while minimizing the amount of detergent used and reducing the load on the aquatic environment after the wash water is discharged.

[0058] Furthermore, the system can be configured such that, in the case of multiple pre-wash treatments, the amount of detergent used in each pre-wash treatment remains the same, i.e., the amount is not reduced. If the number of pre-wash treatments is increased, although the amount of dirt in the washing water in the water tank 12 is relatively reduced, the amount of detergent in the washing water may be insufficient relative to the amount of dirt, sometimes causing dirt to re-adhere to the laundry. To address this, by repeatedly performing multiple pre-wash treatments with the same amount of detergent, even if the amount of dirt in the washing water decreases, the supplied amount of detergent remains constant, thus avoiding the situation where the amount of detergent is insufficient relative to the amount of dirt in the washing water. Therefore, it is possible to prevent dirt from re-adhere to the laundry.

[0059] Furthermore, when performing multiple pre-wash treatments, the configuration can also be as follows: the detergent dosage added in each pre-wash treatment is, for example, as follows: Figure 9 as well as Figure 10As shown, the more pre-washes are performed, the higher the number of washes becomes. That is, when multiple pre-wash processes are performed, in... Figure 9 In the example, the configuration is such that the amount of detergent added in subsequent washes is increased compared to the amount added during the first pre-wash treatment. Specifically, in... Figure 9 In this example, the amount of detergent used in the first pre-wash is set to be less than the amount used in subsequent pre-washes. This allows for the removal of relatively easy-to-remove dirt and grime from the laundry using a small amount of detergent in the first pre-wash, followed by reliable rinsing with increased detergent dosage in subsequent pre-washes. This reduces the amount of detergent used in multiple pre-washes while significantly improving cleaning efficiency. In this case, the detergent dosage in each subsequent pre-wash can be the same or different.

[0060] Additionally, for example in Figure 10 In the example, the configuration is such that, in the case of performing multiple pre-wash treatments, no detergent is added in the first pre-wash treatment. That is, in Figure 10 In the example, when performing multiple pre-wash treatments, the first pre-wash is performed using water that does not contain detergent. This allows for the removal of relatively large dirt, such as mud or solid food particles, using only water without detergent in the first pre-wash treatment. Subsequent pre-wash treatments then reliably clean the surface using detergent-containing rinsing water. This also helps to reduce the amount of detergent used in multiple pre-wash treatments while efficiently improving cleaning results.

[0061] Alternatively, in the case of multiple pre-washes, spray water supply can be performed at least in the first pre-wash. In this specification, spray water supply means a method of supplying water in a spray-like manner from the upper part of the rotating drum 13 into the drum 13. Using this spray water supply, the spray-like water can be applied to the laundry inside the rotating drum 13, thereby efficiently removing dirt from the laundry. Alternatively, in the case of multiple pre-washes, spray water supply can also be performed in subsequent pre-washes.

[0062] In this embodiment, the sprinkler water supply uses... Figure 1 The circulating pump 18 shown circulates the water stored in the water tank 12 between the water tank 12 and the circulation path 17, thereby supplying spray-like water from the nozzle 171. In other words, the spray water supply in this embodiment uses the water stored in the water tank 12 as its water source. However, the spray water supply is not limited to using the water in the water tank 12 as its water source; even with the water circulating within the water tank 12, water from an external water source can be used, as described in the third embodiment described later.

[0063] The control device 50 receives user input via the operation panel 41 or executes cleaning operations according to pre-set schedules. The control device 50, as... Figure 4 As shown, at the start of the washing operation, the weight of the laundry is detected by the weight detection processing unit 51 (step S11), and then the washing process (step S12), rinsing process (step S13) and dehydration process (step S14) are performed in sequence, and then the washing operation ends.

[0064] While referring to Figure 5 An example of the specific method of cleaning operation in this embodiment will be described. Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the operation without a pre-wash, where the user has set a so-called standard program, or in other words, a known general program. In this case, although the washing actions in the pre-wash and the rotation control of the drum 13 are the same as in the main wash, the execution time of the washing actions in the main wash is set to be longer compared to the pre-wash. Furthermore, the washing actions in the pre-wash and the rotation control of the drum 13 can differ between the two processes. For example, in the pre-wash, the drum 13 can rotate clockwise and counterclockwise at a speed that prevents the laundry from sticking to it, while in the main wash, the drum 13 can rotate at a speed such that the laundry is being patted near the top of the drum.

[0065] In this embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, there is no difference between the standard procedure and the cleaning operation that includes a pre-wash treatment, except for the presence or absence of a pre-wash treatment; that is, there is no difference in the process after the pre-wash treatment. Therefore, the number of rinses in the rinsing process is the same as the preset normal number of rinses when a pre-wash treatment is performed. Thus, even when a pre-wash treatment is performed, the increase in the time required for the rinsing process and the increase in the amount of water can be prevented by keeping the number of rinses the same as in the standard procedure.

[0066] Furthermore, the rinsing process in a washing operation that includes a pre-wash can differ from the rinsing process in a standard procedure. Specifically, in a rinsing process that includes a pre-wash, the number of rinses or the water level / volume during rinsing can be increased compared to a standard procedure. Therefore, although the rinsing time or water volume may be longer or increased compared to a standard procedure, it can more thoroughly rinse away any detergent residue left from the pre-wash. In particular, if no spin-drying is performed after the pre-wash, there is a possibility that more detergent residue may remain in the laundry; therefore, the effect of increasing the number of rinses or the water volume compared to a standard procedure can be achieved.

[0067] The following also refers to Figures 6 to 8 The control measures in the washing process will be explained. In addition, in the following description, the processes performed in the dirt detection and treatment unit 52, the pre-wash treatment unit 53, the pre-wash number adjustment treatment unit 54, the formal washing treatment unit 56, and the setting treatment unit 57 will all be described as being performed by the control device 50 as the main body.

[0068] If the control device 50 executes Figure 4 The washing process in step S12 first involves... Figure 6 In step A11, the water supply is determined based on the weight of the laundry detected by the weight detection processing unit 51. Then, in step A12, the control device 50 temporarily sets the detergent dosage for both the pre-wash and main wash processes through the processing of the setting processing unit 57. In this case, the detergent dosage for both the pre-wash and main wash processes is set to... Figure 3 The detergent dosage is set to the minimum among the set detergent dosages for each process, considering the considerable amount of dirt present. Next, the control device 50 performs a pre-wash process in step A13 via the pre-wash process unit 53. Afterwards, the control device 50 moves the process to step A14, where a formal wash process is performed via the formal wash process unit 56. In this case, the control device 50 moves from the pre-wash process to the formal wash process without performing a rinsing step. Afterwards, the control device 50 returns the process to... Figure 4 process ( Figure 6 (return), execute Figure 4 The rinsing process shown in step S13.

[0069] like Figure 7 As shown, in the pre-wash process of step A13, the control device 50 supplies water to the water tank 12 in step B11 until a predetermined water volume is reached. In this case, water from an external water source can also be supplied to the water tank 12 using the water supply path 22, and the circulation pump 18 can be activated to circulate the water accumulated in the water tank 12 through the circulation path 17. As a result, a so-called spray water supply can be performed from the nozzle section 171, efficiently delivering water onto the laundry in the water tank 12. Here, the spray water supply from the nozzle section 171 can also be performed in the formal washing process described later. In this case, the spray water supply in the pre-wash process is more powerful than the spray water supply in the formal washing process, for example, by using a high water pressure, increasing the amount of water sprayed per unit time, or extending the duration of the spray water supply.

[0070] Subsequently, in step B12, the control device 50 adds detergent to the water tank 12, moving the process to step B13. In this case, the amount of detergent added is set to the minimum amount added during the pre-wash and formal wash processes, specifically, a amount less than... Figure 3 The amount of detergent added is less than 0.5 of the indicated proportion. This prevents the addition of excessive detergent to the water tank 12. That is, even if the detergent dosage changes as necessary based on the degree of dirtiness of the washing water detected by the dirt detection and processing unit 52 (described later), a situation will not occur where a detergent dosage exceeding the lower limit of the necessary detergent dosage has been added to the water tank 12.

[0071] Next, in step B13, the control device 50 performs a dirt detection process via the dirt detection processing unit 52. Then, in the following step B14, the control device 50 determines whether the dirt level of the washing water detected by the dirt detection processing unit 52 is above a preset value. If the dirt level of the washing water is below the preset value (No in step B14), the control device 50 moves the process to step A14. Therefore, if the dirt level of the washing water is below the preset value, a pre-wash process is not performed, and the formal washing process is performed directly (step A14).

[0072] On the other hand, if the level of dirt in the washing water is above a set value (as in step B14), the control device 50 moves the process to step B15, where the pre-wash count adjustment processing unit 54 performs a pre-wash count adjustment process. In the next step B16, based on the predetermined number of pre-wash processes determined by the pre-wash count adjustment process, the control device 50 adds an insufficient amount of washing agent relative to the amount already added to the water tank 12, and moves the process to step B17.

[0073] In step B17, the control device 50 performs a washing operation for a predetermined time, for example, 3 minutes. During the washing operation in step B17, the control device 50 may also activate the circulation pump 18 to circulate the water in the water tank 12 through the circulation path 17. This improves the cleaning effect during the washing operation. Afterward, the control device 50 drains the washing water containing dirt from the water tank 12 (step B18). Then, in step B19, the control device 50 performs a spin-drying operation for a predetermined time, for example, 1 minute, and moves the process to step B20. Then, in step B20, the control device 50 determines whether the pre-washing process has ended for a predetermined number of times. If the pre-washing process has not ended for the predetermined number of times (No in step B20), the control device 50 moves the process to step B11 and performs the processes after step B11 again. Alternatively, if the pre-washing process has ended for the predetermined number of times (Yes in step B20), the control device 50 returns the process to normal. Figure 6process ( Figure 7 (return), execute Figure 6 The formal washing process shown in step A14.

[0074] If a formal washing process is performed, then as follows Figure 8 As shown, the control device 50 first determines in step C11 whether a pre-wash process has been performed. If the pre-wash process has not been performed (no in step C11), the control device 50 moves the process to step C12, adds an insufficient amount of detergent to the water tank 12 relative to the amount of detergent added to the water tank 12, and moves the process to step C16.

[0075] On the other hand, if a pre-wash treatment has been performed (as in step C11), the control device 50 moves the process to step C13, where the amount of detergent added is corrected based on the number of pre-wash treatments performed by the setting processing unit 57. Then, in the next step C14, the control device 50 adds the corrected amount of detergent to the water tank 12, moving the process to step C15. In step C15, the control device 50 supplies water to the water tank 12 until a predetermined water volume is reached. Afterwards, in step C16, the control device 50 performs a washing operation for a predetermined time, for example, 10 minutes. Then, the control device 50 ends the process. Figure 8 The formal washing process caused the treatment to return. Figure 6 process ( Figure 8 (return), and end Figure 6 The washing process causes the treatment to return. Figure 4 process ( Figure 6 (Return), so that the process is moved to the rinsing step S13.

[0076] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the requirement for a pre-wash process and the number of times it is performed are set based on the degree of dirtiness of the washing water detected by the dirt detection and processing unit 52. However, this is not a limitation; the user can also input the desired pre-wash process and the number of times it is performed on the operation panel 41 according to the degree of dirtiness of the laundry. Therefore, the user can intentionally select the execution of the pre-wash process, thus improving the convenience of the washing machine 10.

[0077] According to the embodiments described above, the washing machine 10 includes an outer casing 11, a water tank 12, a rotating drum 13, a water supply path 22, a water supply valve 23, a drain path 15, a drain valve 16, an automatic detergent dispensing device 30, and a control device 50. The automatic detergent dispensing device 30 has the function of automatically dispensing detergent into the water tank 12. The control device 50, by controlling the water supply valve 23, the drain valve 16, and the automatic detergent dispensing device 30, can perform a series of cleaning operations including a washing process, a rinsing process, and a spin-drying process.

[0078] In addition, the control device 50 is capable of performing pre-wash and formal wash processes. The pre-wash process includes the following steps: after adding detergent from the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 into the water tank 12 and opening the water supply valve 23 to supply water and perform washing operations in the water tank 12, the drain valve 16 is opened to drain the wash water containing dirt through the drain path 15. The formal wash process includes the following steps: after performing the pre-wash process, adding detergent from the automatic detergent dispensing device 30 into the water tank 12 and opening the water supply valve 23 to supply water to the water tank 12, followed by the washing operation.

[0079] Therefore, by performing a pre-wash treatment before the main wash, relatively easy-to-remove surface-adhering dirt can be removed during the pre-wash, while dirt that has penetrated into the fabric can be effectively removed during the main wash. Furthermore, since the wash water used in the pre-wash is drained before the main wash, the possibility of dirt shed from the fabric during the pre-wash returning to the fabric during the main wash can be prevented, resulting in improved cleaning efficiency.

[0080] Furthermore, since the control device 50 adds detergent from the detergent automatic dispensing device 30 to the water tank 12 during the formal washing process after the pre-washing treatment, the formal washing process can be performed using wash water containing fresh detergent that has not yet acted on the dirt. As a result, the cleaning effect of the detergent can be effectively applied to the laundry during the formal washing process, thereby improving the cleaning performance.

[0081] Furthermore, the control device 50 automatically adds detergent to the water tank 12 using the detergent automatic dispensing device 30 during the formal washing process. Therefore, the user does not need to add additional detergent during the pre-wash process, thus improving washing performance without increasing the user's workload.

[0082] In addition, the control device 50 can also perform setting processing. Setting processing includes setting the amount of detergent added in the pre-wash and main wash processes based on the content of the washing operation or user settings. Furthermore, setting processing includes setting different amounts of detergent added in the pre-wash and main wash processes.

[0083] Accordingly, the amount of detergent used in the pre-wash or main wash process can be changed. Therefore, the overall amount of detergent used in the washing process can be adjusted, preventing excessive addition of detergent to the water tank 12. This prevents detergent from remaining unused on the laundry. Consequently, less water is needed in the rinsing process to remove detergent residue, and even with a pre-wash, the amount of water required for rinsing does not increase, nor does the rinsing time lengthen, thus improving cleaning performance efficiently.

[0084] Furthermore, the setting process includes setting the amount of detergent used in the pre-wash process to be less than or equal to the amount used in the main wash process. Accordingly, by ensuring that the amount of detergent used in the pre-wash process is the same as or less than that used in the main wash process, the overall detergent dosage used in the washing process can be minimized even after the pre-wash process, preventing an increase in water volume and a prolonged rinsing time. This effectively improves cleaning performance.

[0085] Furthermore, the number of rinsing steps in the rinsing process is the same as the preset normal number of rinsing steps when a pre-rinse treatment is performed. Therefore, even when a pre-rinse treatment is performed, the time required for the rinsing process and the amount of water used can be prevented from increasing by ensuring that the number of rinsing steps performed is the same as the number of rinsing steps in the standard procedure.

[0086] Furthermore, pre-washing can be performed multiple times during the washing cycle. Therefore, by performing multiple pre-washing processes, the laundry can be brought to a state where dirt can be easily and properly removed, thus improving washing efficiency.

[0087] In addition, the control device 50 can also perform dirt detection processing and pre-wash number adjustment processing. Dirt detection processing includes detecting the degree of dirt in the washing water within the water tank 12. Pre-wash number adjustment processing includes adjusting the number of pre-wash cycles based on the results of the dirt detection processing. Accordingly, the number of pre-wash cycles can be adjusted according to the degree of dirt in the washing water within the water tank 12. Therefore, pre-wash processing can be performed effectively, thereby improving cleaning efficiency while preventing increases in water usage and extended washing time.

[0088] (Second Implementation)

[0089] Next, refer to Figure 11 The second embodiment will be described. In this second embodiment, the presence or absence of a pre-wash, the number of pre-washes, and the specific content of the pre-wash vary depending on the degree of soiling of the laundry. Furthermore, in Figure 11In the diagram, circles are used to indicate the actions performed during each pre-wash stage of the cleaning process. Additionally, Figure 11 In the table, the absence of circles indicates that the action is not performed.

[0090] In this embodiment, the control of the pre-wash process differs from that in the first embodiment described above. Specifically, the difference lies in that, when multiple pre-wash processes are performed, the soaking action is executed in subsequent pre-wash processes via the processing unit 55. In this case, the processing unit 55 can, for example, allocate a soaking action for a specific pre-wash process after the second one based on the degree of dirtiness of the washing water in the water tank 12 detected by the dirt detection processing unit 52.

[0091] Specifically, control device 50, such as Figure 11 As shown, the system can perform pre-wash cycles, for example, multiple times, up to a maximum of three times, depending on the degree of soiling of the laundry. Furthermore, the control device 50 can include a soaking step in one of the multiple pre-wash cycles. For example... Figure 11 As shown, when the level of dirt is "light," the control device 50 does not perform a pre-wash treatment. Conversely, when the level of dirt is "standard," the control device 50 performs a single pre-wash treatment without soaking. Figure 11 In the example, the control device 50 only performs the "first pre-wash" of the maximum three pre-wash actions.

[0092] Furthermore, in cases of "slightly more" and "more" dirt levels, the control device 50 performs a pre-wash process without soaking and a pre-wash process with soaking, respectively. In this case, the control device 50 performs a pre-wash process with soaking after performing the pre-wash process without soaking. For example, in Figure 11 In the example, the control device 50 first performs a "pre-wash first time" without soaking, and then performs a "pre-wash second time" with soaking.

[0093] Furthermore, when the level of dirt is "quite high," the control device 50 performs the maximum number of pre-wash cycles, which in this case is three pre-wash cycles. In this case, after performing two pre-wash cycles without soaking, the control device 50 performs one pre-wash cycle including soaking. For example, in Figure 11 In the example, the control device 50 performs a "first pre-wash" and a "second pre-wash" without soaking, and then performs a "third pre-wash" that includes soaking.

[0094] Thus, when the laundry is heavily soiled, including a soaking action in the pre-wash process allows for efficient and easy removal of dirt from the laundry. Furthermore, when performing multiple pre-wash processes, the control device 50 can prevent the washing cycle time from being excessively prolonged by including a soaking action in one of the multiple pre-wash processes.

[0095] Alternatively, during the soaking operation, the control device 50 can drive the heater 19 to heat the washing water in the water tank 12. This brings the washing water in the water tank 12 to a warm temperature, for example, between 30°C and 60°C, thereby improving the removal of dirt from laundry compared to room temperature. Furthermore, the heating is not limited to the soaking operation; for example, water supplied to the water tank 12 can be heated, or water exiting the water tank 12 and circulating through the circulation path 17 during the washing operation can be heated and supplied to the water tank 12. The method of heating the water is not limited to using a dedicated heater 19 as in this embodiment; the water can also be heated using the heating device 62 used during the drying operation. In this case, the control device 50 activates the heating device 62 and the blower 63 to blow warm air onto the water stored in the water tank 12. This heats the water in the water tank 12.

[0096] Furthermore, it is also possible to configure the process so that heating occurs not only during the pre-wash process but also during the main wash process. In this case, it is possible to employ a configuration where heating occurs during one or both of the pre-wash and main wash processes. The following will explain the three methods as an example of the difference in heating between the pre-wash and main wash processes.

[0097] The first method involves not heating the water during the pre-wash stage but heating it during the main wash stage. Accordingly, by using warm water in the main wash stage, the cleaning effect is improved compared to using room temperature water. Furthermore, in this first method, warm water is not used in the short pre-wash stage, but only during the longer main wash stage. Therefore, according to the first method, warm water is used only during the main wash stage, where its effect is longer compared to the pre-wash stage, thus allowing for efficient use of warm water and minimizing energy consumption from heating the water.

[0098] The second method involves heating water during both the pre-wash and the main wash processes. In this case, for example, a low-temperature method can be used during the pre-wash and a high-temperature method during the main wash. That is, in this case, warm water with a higher temperature than that used in the pre-wash is used in the main wash. Here, "low temperature" means, for example, water temperature above room temperature and below 30°C, and "high temperature" means, for example, water temperature above 50°C.

[0099] Therefore, by using water hotter than room temperature in both the pre-wash and main wash processes, the cleaning effect can be improved. Furthermore, the heat used in the pre-wash process can be minimized, and by maintaining a warm water temperature for an extended period during both processes, the effectiveness of removing dirt from the laundry can be further enhanced. Additionally, the composition of the warm water in the pre-wash and main wash processes is not limited to different temperatures; the same water temperature can also be used.

[0100] The third method involves heating the water during the pre-wash process but not during the main wash process. This improves the cleaning effect during the main wash. Furthermore, by using warm water in the pre-wash process, the temperature inside the rotating drum 13 is raised, allowing for the utilization of residual heat from the pre-wash process to further enhance the cleaning effect during the subsequent main wash.

[0101] Alternatively, among the three methods described above, in the relatively early stages of the pre-wash and main wash processes using detergent, a treatment to enhance the detergent's effectiveness can be performed by heating the water. Then, during the pre-wash and main wash processes, additional water can be supplied, or the rotation speed of the drum 13 can be increased to increase the mechanical force applied to the laundry. This dilutes the dirt with the additional water supply, and the increased mechanical force makes the dirt easier to remove, further improving cleaning performance.

[0102] Furthermore, the inventors of this application discovered that not only when the wash water containing detergent is heated itself, but also simply when the wash water comes into contact with the laundry, the temperature of the laundry enhances the effect of the detergent components and improves the ability to lift dirt adhering to the laundry surface. Therefore, when performing a pre-wash using detergent, increasing the temperature of the laundry before contact with the wash water improves the cleaning effect compared to when the laundry is at room temperature upon contact with the wash water. Here, as a method for heating the laundry in the rotating drum 12, the inventors of this application investigated two methods: indirectly heating the laundry via water and directly heating the laundry by blowing warm air for drying onto it.

[0103] For example, when using a dedicated heater 19 to heat water, and intending to use that heated water to heat the laundry in the tub 12, the laundry will not be heated to a temperature higher than that of the water heated by the heater 19. Therefore, if the laundry in the tub 12 is to be raised to a certain temperature, the water in the tub 12 itself also needs to be raised to that temperature, consuming a significant amount of energy.

[0104] On the other hand, when warm air is supplied to the water tank 12 using the heating device 62 used in the drying operation, the warm air can be blown onto the laundry to directly heat the laundry itself. In this case, it is not necessary to raise the water in the water tank 12 to the temperature of the laundry, so energy consumption can be reduced. Thus, compared with heating the water using a dedicated heater 19, heating the water using the heating device 62 used in the drying operation can heat the laundry in the drum 13 more directly and efficiently.

[0105] Furthermore, when the laundry is heated by the warm air generated by the heating device 62 used in the drying operation, the washing water in the water tank 12 is also heated to a certain extent by the warm air. Thus, the improved cleaning performance resulting from heating the washing water itself, as described above, can also be achieved. Therefore, it is believed that supplying warm air to the water tank 12 using the heating device 62 used in the drying operation reduces energy consumption while achieving the same cleaning effect compared to using the heater 19 to heat the water.

[0106] Furthermore, when the water is heated using a dedicated heater 19, most of the heat generated by the heater 19 is discharged along with the heated water during drainage. In contrast, when the heating device 62 used in the drying operation is employed, the laundry is sufficiently heated by warm air, but the temperature rise of the water is relatively small compared to the laundry, so less heat is discharged along with the water. In other words, by using the heating device 62 used in the drying operation to heat the water, the discharge of heat due to drainage can be suppressed, thereby reducing energy consumption.

[0107] The supply of warm air to the water tank 12 is preferably performed before the pre-wash treatment with detergent and before the water supply in the main wash treatment. This allows the laundry to be smoothly heated beforehand, even before it is fully immersed in water, thereby further improving the effectiveness of removing dirt during subsequent water supply and washing operations. Specifically, it is preferable that, when heating the laundry by supplying warm air to the water tank 12, in the case of a single pre-wash, the warm air is supplied before the laundry in the rotating drum 13 is fully immersed in water; and in the case of multiple pre-washes, the warm air is supplied at least in the initial pre-wash before the laundry in the rotating drum 13 is fully immersed in water.

[0108] Furthermore, the heating based on warm air is not limited to the third method of heating during the pre-wash process and not heating during the main wash process. It can also be implemented in the first method of not heating during the pre-wash process and heating during the main wash process, or in the second method of heating during both the pre-wash process and the main wash process. In addition, when multiple pre-wash processes are performed, the heating during the pre-wash process can be configured to be performed only during the final pre-wash process. As a result, heat loss due to drainage during the pre-wash process can be suppressed.

[0109] Furthermore, heating is not limited to the soaking process; it can also be performed during water supply or washing. Moreover, the timing for starting the supply of warm air into the water tank 12 can be any time when the laundry in the rotating drum 13 is not submerged in water, i.e., when it is above the water surface; it can be before, during, or after water supply. Additionally, to improve the heating effect of the warm air on the laundry, the water level for the pre-wash during warm air heating can be set lower than the water level for the pre-wash or the main wash without warm air heating.

[0110] According to the second embodiment described above, the pre-washing process further includes a soaking action in which the laundry is immersed in the washing water in the water tank 12 for a predetermined time. This allows the detergent to fully penetrate between the fibers of the laundry, making it easier to remove dirt adhering to the laundry. Furthermore, the control device 50 can also perform a dispensing process. In the case of performing multiple pre-washing processes, the dispensing process includes a process that includes a soaking action in subsequent pre-washing processes. Therefore, by effectively performing the soaking action during the pre-washing process, dirt is easily removed from the laundry, resulting in further improved cleaning performance.

[0111] (Third Implementation)

[0112] Next, refer to Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 The third embodiment will be described.

[0113] In this embodiment, the washing machine 10, as Figure 12 As shown, it also includes a second water supply path 24 and a second water supply valve 25. Furthermore, in this embodiment, to clearly distinguish between the second water supply path 24 and the second water supply valve 25, the water supply path 22 and the water supply valve 23 in the above embodiments are conveniently referred to as the first water supply path 22 and the first water supply valve 23, respectively. That is, the first water supply path 22 and the first water supply valve 23 in this embodiment are respectively equivalent to the water supply path 22 and the water supply valve 23 in the above embodiments.

[0114] The second water supply path 24 is a path for supplying water from an external water source to the spray nozzle 26. Therefore, the second water supply path 24 can also be called the spray water supply path. One end of the second water supply path 24 is connected to the second water supply valve 25, and the other end is connected to the spray nozzle 26. The second water supply valve 25 is the same as the first water supply valve 23, and is a liquid on / off valve that can be opened and closed electromagnetically. The second water supply valve 25 is located between the connection port 21 and the second water supply path 24. The second water supply valve 25 opens and closes the second water supply path 24 based on a control signal from the control device 50. By opening one or both of the first water supply valve 23 or the second water supply valve 25, the control device 50 can supply water from an external water source to the water tank 12 using one or both of the first water supply path 22 or the second water supply path 24.

[0115] The spray nozzle 26 is configured to release water discharged from the spray nozzle 26 towards the center of the water tank 12 in a spray pattern. Although not shown in detail, the spray nozzle 26 is configured to generate fine water droplets of 500 μm or less, and has the function of spraying fine water droplets at high pressure by reducing the opening area of ​​the front end of the spray nozzle 26. Here, high pressure means that the water pressure is at least higher than the water pressure supplied to the water tank 12 from the first water supply path 22.

[0116] Furthermore, the control measures for the pre-wash process in this embodiment differ from those in the aforementioned embodiments. In this embodiment, the control device 50 replaces [the control unit] in the pre-wash process. Figure 7 Execute the control content shown. Figure 13 The control content shown. Figure 13 In the prewashing process shown, the replacement Figure 7 The processes shown in steps B11 to B12 have processes in steps D11 to D13. Therefore, the processes after step B13 are the same as in the embodiments described above.

[0117] In the pre-washing process of this embodiment, if the pre-washing process is to be started, the control device 50 first opens the first water supply valve 23 and activates the automatic detergent dispensing device 30, supplying water containing detergent to the water tank 12 from the first water supply path 22. Then, after the laundry is wetted at a low water level, the control device 50 rotates the rotating drum 13 to start the washing operation, and opens the second water supply valve 25 so that fine water droplets are sprayed onto the laundry from the spray nozzles 26 under high pressure, thereby improving the cleaning effect of the tumbling wash.

[0118] Specifically, during the pre-wash process, in step D11, the control device 50 opens the first water supply valve 23 to supply water from the first water supply path 22 until the water level reaches the desired level of wetness of the laundry in the drum 13. Then, in step D12, the control device 50 activates the automatic detergent dispensing device 30, adding detergent to the water flowing through the first water supply path 22 and dispensing it into the water tank 12. In this case, the amount of detergent added is set to the minimum amount added during both the pre-wash and the main wash processes; specifically... Figure 3 The amount of detergent added is less than 0.5 of the indicated proportion.

[0119] Then, in step D13, the control device 50 opens the second water supply valve 25 to supply water to the water tank 12 from the spray nozzle 26 via the second water supply path 24, and drives the motor 14 to rotate the rotating drum 13 to perform a washing operation for a predetermined time, for example, 3 minutes. In this case, the control device 50 may also be configured to add to or replace the water supply from the second water supply path 24 by driving the circulation pump 18 to supply water from the nozzle section 171. This further enhances the cleaning effect through the multiplication effect of water injection from the spray nozzle 26 and the nozzle section 171. Afterwards, the control device 50 moves the process to step B13 for further processing.

[0120] Accordingly, the pre-washing process also includes opening the second water supply valve 25 to supply water from the second water supply path 24 into the water tank 12 and performing a washing action. As a result, dirt and other contaminants attached to the laundry can be easily removed by the water supplied from the second water supply path 24, thereby further improving the cleaning effect.

[0121] (Fourth Implementation)

[0122] Next, refer to Figure 14 The fourth embodiment will be described.

[0123] In this embodiment, the control device 50 replaces that of the third embodiment in the pre-washing process. Figure 13 Execute the control content shown. Figure 14 The control content shown is the same as in the third embodiment described above, except for the control content of the pre-washing process. This embodiment differs from the third embodiment in that... Figure 13 The processing described differs from the third embodiment above in that it includes additional steps E11 and E12.

[0124] This embodiment is an example of performing one or more pre-wash treatments without using detergent in the initial pre-wash treatment, i.e., the first pre-wash treatment. When the control device 50 starts the pre-wash treatment, it first opens the first water supply valve 23 to supply water to the water tank 12 from the first water supply path 22, and also opens the second water supply valve 25 to supply water to the water tank 12 from the second water supply path 24. Thus, water is supplied from both the first water supply path 22 and the second water supply path 24, so the laundry in the drum 13 is efficiently wetted. At this time, since the control device 50 does not activate the automatic detergent dispensing device 30, the water tank 12 is supplied with water that does not contain detergent.

[0125] Specifically, if the control device 50 performs a pre-wash process, it determines in step E11 whether the pre-wash has been performed more than twice. If the pre-wash has been performed more than twice (yes in step E11), the control device 50 performs the processing after step D11, as in the third embodiment described above. On the other hand, if the pre-wash has not been performed more than twice, i.e., it has been performed only once (no in step E11), the control device 50 moves the processing to step E12. In step E12, the control device 50 opens the first water supply valve 23 to supply water from the water supply path 22 until the water level reaches the desired level of wetness of the laundry in the drum 13, and opens the second water supply valve 25 to open the second water supply path 24 to supply water from the spray nozzles 26 into the water tank 12.

[0126] Furthermore, the control device 50 performs a washing operation for a predetermined time, such as 3 minutes, in step E12. During the first pre-wash, the control device 50 does not add detergent to the water tank 12. Afterward, the control device 50 moves the process to step B18, opening the drain valve 16 to drain water from the water tank 12 via the drain path 15. This allows for the efficient removal of dirt from the laundry by the water supply from the second water supply path 24 and the washing operation. Alternatively, in step E12, the first water supply valve 23 may remain closed, while the second water supply valve is opened, opening the second water supply path 24 to supply water from the spray nozzles 26 into the water tank 12, and the washing operation is performed.

[0127] Accordingly, the pre-wash process also includes the following steps: instead of adding detergent to the water tank 12 from the automatic detergent dispensing device 30, water is supplied to the water tank 12 after the water supply valve 23 is opened, and water is then supplied to the water tank 12 from the second water supply path 24 via the second water supply valve 25. Simultaneously, the washing action is performed, and the drain valve 16 is opened to drain the water from the water tank 12 through the drain path 15. Therefore, since no detergent is added to the water tank 12 during the pre-wash process, no foam from detergent components is generated. Consequently, the cleaning force from the high-pressure water jet from the spray nozzles 26 and the mechanical force from the washing action can directly act on the dirt adhering to the laundry, without the need for defoaming. As a result, the washing process time and the overall washing operation time can be reduced.

[0128] Furthermore, while the third and fourth embodiments described above employ a configuration where water is supplied from the second water supply path 24 during the pre-wash process, this is not a limitation. Water supply from the second water supply path 24 can also be provided during the formal wash process. In this case, the cleaning power of the water sprayed from the spray nozzle 26 during the pre-wash process can be higher than that of the water sprayed from the spray nozzle 26 during the formal wash process. This cleaning power can be increased, for example, by using high water pressure, increasing the amount of water sprayed per unit time, and extending the spraying time.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, specific values ​​such as the amount of detergent added and the number of pre-wash cycles have been listed and explained. However, these specific values ​​are only examples and can be modified appropriately. Additionally, various changes can be made to the overall hardware configuration of the washing machine 10 and the types of operating programs. Moreover, multiple embodiments described above can be combined arbitrarily for implementation.

[0130] The foregoing has described several embodiments of the present invention, but these embodiments are provided as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims.

Claims

1. A washing machine, wherein, have: outer box; A water container is located inside the outer casing; A rotating drum is positioned inside the water-holding bucket in a rotatable manner; The water supply path will supply water from an external water source to the water tank; The water supply valve opens and closes the water supply path; A drainage path is provided to allow water to drain from the water-holding bucket. A drain valve, used to open and close the drainage path; An automatic detergent dispensing device automatically dispenses detergent into the water tank; as well as The control device, by controlling the water supply valve, the drain valve, and the automatic agent dosing device, can execute a series of cleaning operations including washing, rinsing, and dehydration processes. The control device is capable of performing: Pre-washing treatment: After the detergent is added into the water tank from the automatic detergent dispensing device and the water supply valve is opened to supply water and perform washing actions in the water tank, the drain valve is opened to drain the washing water containing dirt from the drain path. as well as The formal washing process, after the pre-wash treatment, involves adding the detergent from the automatic detergent dispensing device into the water tank and opening the water supply valve to supply water to the tank, followed by the washing action. The pre-washing process can be performed multiple times during the cleaning operation. When performing the pre-wash treatment multiple times, the amount of detergent added in the current pre-wash treatment is set to be the same as or more than the amount of detergent added in the previous pre-wash treatment.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The control device is also capable of setting the amount of detergent added in the pre-wash and formal wash processes based on the content of the washing operation or user settings. The setting process includes setting the amount of detergent added in the pre-wash process and the formal wash process to be different.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein, The setting process further includes setting the amount of detergent added in the pre-wash process to be less than the amount of detergent added in the formal wash process.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, In the case where the pre-washing treatment has been performed, the number of rinsing cycles in the rinsing process is the same as the preset normal number of rinsing cycles.

5. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The control device is also capable of performing: A dirt detection and treatment process for detecting the degree of dirt buildup in the washing water within the water tank; and The number of pre-wash cycles is adjusted based on the results of the dirt detection and treatment.

6. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The pre-washing process also includes soaking the laundry in the wash water in the bucket for a specified time.

7. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein, In the event that the control device performs multiple pre-wash processes, it can also perform a distribution process that includes the soaking action in subsequent pre-wash processes.

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