Dishwasher and control method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a tableware washing machine and a control method thereof. It reduces the residue in the tableware washing machine. The tableware washing machine includes: a housing (1); a washing tank (2) disposed inside the housing for accommodating an object to be washed (13); a water storage part (8) disposed at the bottom of the washing tank; a residue filter (9) disposed in the water storage part for capturing residues contained in the washing water flowing into the water storage part; a drainage passage (7a) communicating the water storage part with the outside of the housing; and a spray outlet for spraying washing water for rinsing the residues captured by the residue filter toward the residue filter; the tableware washing machine is configured such that when the washing water inside the washing tank is discharged out of the housing via the drainage passage, the residues captured by the residue filter are discharged together with the washing water, and when the water level of the washing water inside the washing tank is higher than the spray outlet, washing water is sprayed from the spray outlet toward the residue filter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dishwashing machine for washing dishes and other objects to be washed accommodated in a washing tank, and a control method therefor. Background Art

[0002] Existing dishwashing machines are provided with a washing tank for accommodating dishes in the main body. At the bottom of the washing tank, a washing pump is provided, which sucks water from the bottom and sprinkles water into the washing tank. A drain pump sucks water from the bottom of the washing tank and discharges it outside the machine via a drain passage. The residue filter is composed of a residue basket, a metal plate, and a metal mesh part. The residue basket captures large food residues during washing and draining. The metal plate has an inclined part for guiding residues to the residue basket and water drainage holes. The metal mesh part prevents residues from entering the washing pump. A water injection pipe as a water injection means is provided on the outer periphery of the metal mesh part, and water is injected from the outside to the inside to remove residues attached to the metal mesh part.

[0003] When starting the operation of the dishwashing machine, water is supplied and accumulates at the bottom of the washing tank. The accumulated water is sprinkled into the washing tank by the washing pump to wash the dishes. After the washing is completed, the drain pump operates to discharge the water in the washing tank outside the machine via the drain passage. When the operation of the drain pump is stopped, water is sprayed from the outside of the metal mesh part located at the outer periphery of the residue filter to remove the attached residues inward. When the water injection is completed, the drain pump operates again, and the accumulated water is sucked by the drain pump from the bottom of the washing tank and discharged outside the machine via the drain passage.

[0004] According to the above configuration, fine food residues attached to the residue filter are washed to the inside of the metal mesh part. Therefore, after the washing is completed, the odor of food residues does not remain in the dishwashing machine cabinet, and the odor is not transferred to the dishes.

[0005] [Prior Art Documents]

[0006] [Patent Documents]

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 04-224725 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Existing dishwashing machines spray water on the mesh part constituting the residue filter from the outside to remove residues attached to the mesh part. However, in order to spray water on the entire mesh part from the outside, a considerable number of spray nozzles need to be provided around the mesh part, or the spray nozzles are configured to move around. Thus, there is a problem that the configuration of the spraying means is complicated.

[0009] In addition, the problem is that when the wire material constituting the mesh part is thick, or when the mesh is replaced by a metal plate having a plurality of small holes, etc., even if water is sprayed from the outside, the residues existing inside the wire material or the plate material cannot be peeled off.

[0010] The present disclosure solves the above-mentioned existing technical problems, aiming to reduce the residue remaining in the tableware washing machine.

[0011] [Method for Solving Technical Problems]

[0012] The tableware washing machine of the present disclosure includes: a housing; a washing tank disposed inside the housing for accommodating the objects to be washed; a water storage part disposed at the bottom of the washing tank; a residue filter disposed in the water storage part for capturing the residue contained in the washing water flowing into the water storage part; a drainage passage communicating the water storage part with the outside of the housing; and a spray outlet for spraying the washing water for flushing the residue captured by the residue filter toward the residue filter. The tableware washing machine is configured such that when the washing water inside the washing tank is discharged out of the housing through the drainage passage, the residue captured by the residue filter is discharged together with the washing water. When the water level of the washing water inside the washing tank is higher than the spray outlet, the washing water is sprayed from the spray outlet toward the residue filter.

[0013] [Invention Effects]

[0014] According to the present disclosure, the residue remaining in the tableware washing machine can be reduced. Description of the Drawings

[0015] Figure 1 is a schematic side sectional view of the tableware washing machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure

[0016] Figure 2 is a detailed perspective view showing the structure provided at the bottom of the washing tank

[0017] Figure 3 is from Figure 2 a top view of the structure shown with the washing nozzles removed

[0018] Figure 4A is Figure 3 a partial sectional view AA of

[0019] Figure 4B is Figure 3 a partial sectional view BB of

[0020] Figure 5A is an exploded perspective view of the residue filter

[0021] Figure 5B is a perspective view of the residue filter

[0022] Figure 6A is a sectional view of the residue filter

[0023] Figure 6B is a sectional view of another example of the residue filter

[0024] Figure 7AIt is a diagram showing the state where residues are captured by the residue filter

[0025] Figure 7B It is a diagram showing the state where residues are captured by the residue filter

[0026] Figure 7C It is a diagram showing the state where residues are captured by the residue filter

[0027] Figure 8A It is a diagram showing the relationship between the water level of the cleaning water and the cleaning water ejected from the ejection port

[0028] Figure 8B It is a diagram showing the relationship between the water level of the cleaning water and the cleaning water ejected from the ejection port

[0029] Figure 8C It is a diagram showing the relationship between the water level of the cleaning water and the cleaning water ejected from the ejection port

[0030] Figure 9A It is a diagram showing the relationship between the water inlet and the suction port of the circulation water path

[0031] Figure 9B It is a diagram showing the relationship between the water inlet and the suction port of the circulation water path

[0032] Figure 9C It is a diagram showing the relationship between the water inlet and the suction port of the circulation water path

[0033] Figure 10A It is a diagram showing the relationship between the suction port of the circulation water path and the flow of the cleaning water

[0034] Figure 10B It is a diagram showing the relationship between the suction port of the circulation water path and the ejection port

[0035] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing the angle of the cleaning water ejected from the ejection port

[0036] Figure 12A It is a diagram showing the structure of the connection between the water inlet and the fitting part

[0037] Figure 12B It is a diagram showing the structure of the connection between the water inlet and the fitting part

[0038] Figure 12C It is a diagram showing the structure of the connection between the water inlet and the fitting part

[0039] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing the structure of the connection part between the water inlet and the filter path

[0040] Figure 14A It is a diagram showing the structure of the water diverter

[0041] Figure 14B It is a diagram showing the structure of the water diverter

[0042] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing a control method of a tableware washing machine according to Embodiment 1

[0043] Figure 16 is a timing chart showing the states of the respective structures of the tableware washing machine according to Embodiment 1 Detailed Embodiment

[0044] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this case, there are cases where detailed descriptions beyond what is necessary are omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters or repeated descriptions of substantially the same structures may sometimes be omitted.

[0045] In addition, the drawings and the following description are provided for those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and the purpose is not to limit the subject matter described in the claims thereby.

[0046] (Embodiment 1)

[0047] Hereinafter, Figures 1 - 16 will be used to describe Embodiment 1.

[0048] [1-1. Structure]

[0049] Figure 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a tableware washing machine according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The state where the tableware washing machine is installed in the integrated kitchen SK is shown. In addition, in the description of each embodiment, as shown in the figure, the front direction is defined as the direction of the drawer door body 5 and the washing tank 2, and the rear direction is defined as the direction of storing the washing tank 2 and closing the door body 5 for explanation. In addition, the installation side of the tableware washing machine is defined as the lower side, the opposite side is defined as the upper side, and when facing the front of the door body 5, the right side is defined as the right side and the left side is defined as the left side for explanation.

[0050] As Figure 1 shown, the tableware washing machine of the present embodiment includes a housing 1, a washing tank 2, a washing device 3, a water supply unit 4, a door body 5, a drainage unit 7, etc.

[0051] The housing 1 has a front surface opening 1a on the front surface. The cleaning tank 2 includes a tableware basket 6, a cleaning nozzle 3c, a water storage section 8, a residue filter 9, etc. inside. The cleaning tank 2 is arranged to be able to move in and out in the front-rear direction inside the housing 1. The cleaning tank 2 has an upper surface opening 2a on the upper surface. When the cleaning tank 2 is housed in the housing 1, the upper surface opening 2a is closed by an inner lid 10 provided inside the housing 1. The inner lid 10 is linked to the movement in and out of the cleaning tank 2 and moves up and down through a link structure 11. A sealing section 12 formed of a deformable hollow rubber tube is provided on the periphery of the upper surface opening 2a. The sealing section 12 is compressed by the descending inner lid 10 when the cleaning tank 2 is housed in the housing 1 to seal the upper surface opening 2a.

[0052] Tableware and other objects to be cleaned 13 are placed in the tableware basket 6. A door body 5 is provided at the front of the cleaning tank 2 and covers the front surface of the housing 1 during storage. The water supply section 4 includes a water supply passage 4a, a water supply valve 4b, etc. The water supply passage 4a is connected to a water pipe (not shown). The water supply valve 4b is provided in the water supply passage 4a at the rear of the interior of the housing 1. When the water supply valve 4b is opened, tap water as cleaning water is branched so that tap water can be supplied to at least any one of the cleaning tank 2 or the residue filter 9 in the water storage section 8. By switching the opening of the water supply valve 4b, water can be supplied to any one or both of the cleaning tank 2 or the water storage section 8. In addition, the water supply valve 4b may be constituted by a water supply pump.

[0053] The cleaning device 3 includes a circulation water path 3a, a cleaning pump 3b, a cleaning nozzle 3c, etc., and cleans the objects to be cleaned 13. The circulation water path 3a communicates the water storage section 8 and the cleaning nozzle 3c. The cleaning pump 3b is provided in the circulation water path 3a and fixed to the outside of the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank. The suction side of the cleaning pump 3b communicates with the water storage section 8 to circulate the cleaning water from which residues have been removed by the residue filter 9.

[0054] The cleaning nozzle 3c is provided at the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank. The cleaning pump 3b pressurizes and conveys the cleaning water to the cleaning nozzle 3c. The cleaning nozzle 3c rotates by the reaction force of the pressurized and conveyed cleaning water and sprays the cleaning water onto the objects to be cleaned 13. That is, the cleaning pump 3b pressurizes the cleaning water accumulated in the cleaning tank 2 and supplies it to the cleaning nozzle 3c. The cleaning water sprayed from the cleaning nozzle 3c impacts the objects to be cleaned 13, removes stains, and performs cleaning. In addition, the cleaning water includes a cleaning liquid containing a detergent and sprayed onto the objects to be cleaned 13, and rinsing water for rinsing the objects to be cleaned 13.

[0055] The water storage part 8 is arranged at the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank 2 inside the cleaning tank. The residue filter 9 is detachably arranged in the water storage part 8 to capture the residues cleaned and removed from the object to be cleaned 13. The water storage part 8 and the residue filter 9 will be described in detail later. In addition, the residue filter 9 can also be configured to be fixed to the water storage part 8 and cannot be detached. A heater (not shown) is arranged at the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank to heat the cleaning water accumulated in the cleaning tank 2 during the cleaning process or the rinsing process. The heater heats the drying air in the cleaning tank 2 during the drying process. A temperature sensor (not shown) is arranged outside the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank to detect the temperature of the cleaning tank 2. A detergent supply device (not shown) for supplying detergent into the cleaning tank 2 is arranged on the side of the cleaning tank 2 opposite to the door body 5.

[0056] The drainage part 7 discharges the cleaning water flowing into the water storage part 8 out of the housing 1. The drainage part 7 includes a drainage passage 7a, a drainage pump 7b, a drainage port 7c, etc. In addition, regarding the drainage pump 7b, it can also be configured to be able to be used as a drainage pump by reversing the rotation direction of the motor when the cleaning pump 3b rotates in a reverse cycle. Alternatively, instead of the drainage pump 7b, a drainage valve can be configured to be provided, and the cleaning water is discharged by natural fall caused by gravity by opening the drainage valve.

[0057] The control part 17 for controlling the cleaning operation is arranged inside the door body 5. The control part 17 sequentially controls the cleaning process for cleaning the object to be cleaned 13, the rinsing process for rinsing the detergent and residues attached to the object to be cleaned 13, and the drying process for drying the object to be cleaned 13 that has completed rinsing, and executes the cleaning operation.

[0058] Next, the structures of the water storage part 8 arranged at the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank and the residue filter 9 arranged in the water storage part 8 will be described in detail.

[0059] Figure 2 It is a detailed three-dimensional view showing the structure arranged at the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank. Figure 3 It is from Figure 2 The top view of the structure obtained by removing the cleaning nozzle 3c from the structure shown. In the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank, a cleaning nozzle 3c and a water storage part 8 are arranged. The bottom 2b of the cleaning tank is inclined so that the position of the water storage part 8 is the lowest, and the cleaning water supplied during the cleaning process and the rinsing process is collected in the water storage part 8 together with the residues. The water storage part 8 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. A residue filter 9 is arranged in the water storage part 8. The cleaning pump 3b and the drainage pump 7b are connected to the water storage part 8.

[0060] Figure 4A It is Figure 3 The partial sectional view AA of Figure 4B It is Figure 3Partial sectional view of BB. The residue filter 9 includes a lattice filter 30, a perforated filter 31, and a mesh filter 32.

[0061] Figure 5A Is an exploded perspective view of the residue filter 9. Figure 5B Is a perspective view of the residue filter 9.

[0062] The lattice filter 30 has a plurality of holes arranged in a lattice pattern at the lower part of the cylindrical portion, capturing relatively large residues. At the upper part of the lattice filter 30, a handle is provided for the user to hold when removing the lattice filter 30 and discarding the captured residues.

[0063] The perforated filter 31 is formed of a perforated metal plate made of stainless steel or the like on a plane. In order to allow the cleaning water to circulate even when the lattice filter 30 or the mesh filter 32 is clogged, it is configured such that the cleaning water can also flow into the water storage portion 8 from the outside of the opening of the lattice filter 30. However, the perforated filter 31 is provided to capture the residues contained in the cleaning water flowing into the water storage portion 8 from the outside of the opening of the lattice filter 30.

[0064] The mesh filter 32 has a mesh member 32a, which has fine openings such as a plain weave wire mesh (for example, 50 to 100 meshes, or a square hole mesh of about 0.28 mm) formed of resin or the like and arranged in a substantially cylindrical shape on the circumferential side surface of the lattice. The mesh filter 32 captures fine residues passing through the lattice filter 30.

[0065] Figure 6A Is a sectional view of the residue filter 9. The mesh filter 32 has a mesh member 32a for capturing residues, a filter cleaning path 32b for flowing the cleaning water for cleaning the inside of the mesh filter 32, a jet outlet 32c for jetting the cleaning water flowing in the filter cleaning path 32b toward the mesh member 32a, and a water inlet 32d for introducing the cleaning water into the filter cleaning path 32b.

[0066] The water inlet 32d is provided on the side surface of the mesh filter 32. The filter cleaning path 32b is provided above the upper part of the mesh filter 32 and above the mesh member 32a. The jet outlet 32c is provided at the position where the mesh member 32a is provided on the lower surface of the filter cleaning path 32b. In the present embodiment, since the mesh member 32a is provided around the entire circumference of the cylinder, the jet outlet 32c is also provided around the entire circumference.

[0067] By jetting the cleaning water introduced into the filter cleaning path 32b from the water inlet 32d toward the mesh member 32a from the plurality of jet outlets 32c, the residues captured inside the mesh member 32a can be scraped off.

[0068] As the cleaning water for cleaning the residue filter 9, tap water supplied by the water supply unit 4 can be used. However, in this embodiment, during the cleaning process or the rinsing process, the cleaning water remaining in the cleaning tank 2 is guided from the water guide port 32d to the filter cleaning path 32b by the cleaning pump 3b. Therefore, the dishwashing machine is provided with a water diverter for diverting the cleaning water conveyed from the cleaning pump 3b between the cleaning nozzle 3c and the water guide port 32d. The details of the water diverter will be described later.

[0069] By arranging the water guide port 32d on the side surface near the filter cleaning path 32b, the path from the water guide port 32d to the filter cleaning path 32b can be shortened, so that the pressure loss can be suppressed. Thereby, the pressure of the cleaning water ejected from the ejection port 32c can be increased, and the cleaning efficiency of the mesh member 32a can be improved. In addition, when the user observes the inside of the cleaning tank 2, it is difficult to see the cleaning water remaining near the water guide port 32d.

[0070] Figure 6B It is a cross-sectional view of another example of the residue filter 9. Figure 6A In the example shown, the water guide port 32d is arranged on the side surface of the residue filter 9. Figure 6B In the example shown, the water guide port 32d is arranged at the bottom of the residue filter 9. At this time, the cleaning water introduced from the water guide port 32d into the filter cleaning path 32b is ejected from the plurality of ejection ports 32c toward the mesh member 32a, so that the residue captured inside the mesh member 32a can be scraped off.

[0071] At the initial stage of the cleaning process or the rinsing process, as Figure 7A shown, in the mesh member 32a of the net filter 32, the area of the portion blocked by the captured residue is small, so the resistance of the net filter 32 is small. Therefore, as Figure 7A indicated by the solid line arrow in, most of the residue contained in the cleaning water flows into the inside of the net filter 32 and is captured by the mesh member 32a. The cleaning water after removing the residue is sucked into the circulation water path 3a from the circulation water path suction port 32e and circulated by the cleaning pump 3b.

[0072] At the middle stage of the cleaning process or the rinsing process, as Figure 7B shown, in the mesh member 32a close to the circulation water path suction port 32e, the captured residue accumulates, and the area of the portion blocked by the residue gradually increases, so the resistance of the net filter 32 becomes large. Therefore, as Figure 7B indicated by the dashed line arrow in, a part of the residue contained in the cleaning water is sucked into the circulation water path 3a from the perforations of the perforated filter 31 on the outside of the net filter 32 or the gaps between the respective components.

[0073] At the later stage of the cleaning process or the rinsing process, as Figure 7CAs shown, a larger area of the grid member 32a may be blocked by residue. Even if residue is sucked into the circulation water path 3a, the residue may flow into the inside of the mesh filter 32 during circulation and be captured by the grid member 32a. However, there is also a possibility that the residue is not captured by the grid member 32a during circulation but remains inside the cleaning tank 2 at the end of operation and then reattaches to the object to be cleaned 13.

[0074] After the cleaning process or the rinsing process is completed and the cleaning water is discharged by the drain pump 7b, a part of the residue captured by the residue filter 9 is discharged together with the cleaning water. However, especially in the position close to the suction port 32e of the circulation water path, the captured residue is pressed against the grid member 32a by the water pressure of the cleaning pump 3b and strongly adheres to the grid member 32a. There is a situation where residue remains inside the grid member 32a even after the cleaning water is discharged. When most of the grid member 32a moves to the next process in a state blocked by residue, from the beginning of the process, as Figure 7B or Figure 7C shown, the residue circulates outside the residue filter 9, so the residue is likely to remain inside the cleaning tank 2 at the end of operation.

[0075] In the present embodiment, when discharging the cleaning water, by spraying the cleaning water from the spray outlet 32c, the residue captured inside the grid member 32a is scraped off and discharged to the outside of the dishwashing machine together with the cleaning water. Thus, in the next process, as Figure 7A shown, it is possible to make the residue easily flow into the inside of the residue filter 9, so that the residue remaining in the cleaning tank 2 can be captured by the residue filter 9. Therefore, the amount of residue remaining in the cleaning tank 2 at the end of operation can be further reduced, and thus the reattachment of the residue to the object to be cleaned 13 can be suppressed. In addition, the amount of residue remaining in the residue filter 9 can also be reduced, so the dishwashing machine can be hygienically maintained, and the proliferation of odors or miscellaneous bacteria can be suppressed.

[0076] When cleaning the residue filter 9 during the process of discharging the cleaning water, as Figure 8A shown, preferably, when the water level 33 of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 2 is higher than the spray outlet 32c, the cleaning water is sprayed from the spray outlet 32c. By spraying the cleaning water in the water, the generation of bubbles can be suppressed, so the malfunction (air entrainment) caused by the bubbles mixing into the cleaning pump 3b can be suppressed. In addition, by spraying the cleaning water in the water, the water potential can reach a wider range, so the cleaning performance can be improved. In addition, by spraying the cleaning water in the water, the splashing of water on the water surface can be suppressed, so the entrainment of residue is reduced, and the cleaning efficiency can be improved.

[0077] Drainage is performed, as Figure 8BAs shown, even when the water level 33 is lower than the spray outlet 32c, the spraying of the cleaning water from the spray outlet 32c can continue. The residue attached to the upper part of the residue filter 9 is scraped off at the initial stage of drainage. Therefore, when the water level 33 is lower than the spray outlet 32c, even if the cleaning water is sprayed from the spray outlet 32c, there will be no adverse situation where the residue attached to the upper part of the residue filter 9 scatters.

[0078] Drain further, as Figure 8C shown, before the water level 33 is lower than the intake port 32e of the circulation water path, the cleaning of the residue filter 9 ends. As described above, during the cleaning of the residue filter 9, the cleaning pump 3b is driven, and the cleaning water sucked from the intake port 32e of the circulation water path is guided by the cleaning pump 3b to the filter cleaning path 32b of the mesh filter 32. Therefore, when the water level 33 is lower than the intake port 32e of the circulation water path, air is sucked into the cleaning pump 3b, resulting in an adverse situation (air entrainment). Therefore, before the water level 33 is lower than the intake port 32e of the circulation water path, the cleaning pump 3b is stopped, and the cleaning of the residue filter 9 ends.

[0079] During the cleaning process and the rinsing process, the cleaning water is circulated by the cleaning pump 3b. Therefore, as Figure 7B and Figure 7C shown, the residue is likely to accumulate inside the grid member 32a near the intake port 32e of the circulation water path. As Figure 9A shown, if the water guide port 32d is located near the intake port 32e of the circulation water path, when the grid member 32a near the intake port 32e of the circulation water path is blocked by the residue, the cleaning water will flow from the spray outlet 32c through the water guide port 32d and from the outside of the grid member 32a to the intake port 32e of the circulation water path. Therefore, the residue cannot be captured by the grid member 32a. Therefore, as Figure 9B shown, the water guide port 32d is arranged at a position separated from the intake port 32e of the circulation water path. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the cleaning water from escaping into the path from the spray outlet 32c through the water guide port 32d and reaching the intake port 32e of the circulation water path from the outside of the grid member 32a, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency. The water guide port 32d may be arranged near the intake port 32e of the circulation water path. For example, as Figure 9C shown, when observing the mesh filter 32 from above, the angle formed by the straight line connecting the center of the mesh filter 32 and the water guide port 32d and the straight line connecting the center of the mesh filter 32 and the intake port 32e of the circulation water path can be 45° or more, 50° or more, 55° or more, 60° or more, 65° or more, 70° or more, 75° or more, 80° or more, 85° or more, 90° or more, 95° or more, 100° or more, 110° or more, 120° or more, 130° or more, 140° or more, 150° or more, 160° or more, 170° or more. The water guide port 32d may also be arranged at a position opposite to the intake port 32e of the circulation water path.

[0080] As Figure 10A shown, the closer to the suction port 32e of the circulation water path, the greater the amount of cleaning water passing through, so residues are likely to accumulate inside the mesh member 32a. Therefore, as Figure 10B shown, the closer to the suction port 32e of the circulation water path, the greater the number or area of the ejection ports 32c, and more cleaning water is ejected toward the mesh member 32a. Thereby, the cleaning performance can be improved.

[0081] As Figure 11 shown, by ejecting the cleaning water from the ejection port 32c at an acute angle to the inner side surface of the mesh member 32a, the residues attached to the inner side of the mesh member 32a can be scraped off more effectively. Therefore, the angle at which the cleaning water is ejected from the ejection port 32c with respect to the inner side surface of the mesh member 32a may be 40° or less, 30° or less, 20° or less, 10° or less, 9° or less, 8° or less, 7° or less, 6° or less, 5° or less, 4° or less, 3° or less, 2° or less, 1° or less.

[0082] As Figure 6A shown, when the water inlet 32d is provided on the side surface of the mesh filter 32, when the mesh filter 32 is provided in the water storage part 8, it is necessary to position the mesh filter 32 in such a way that the filter path from the cleaning pump 3b to the water inlet 32d is connected to the water inlet 32d. In the present embodiment, as Figure 12A shown, a fitting part 34 that fits with the water inlet 32d protruding to the side surface of the mesh filter 32 is provided in the water storage part 8. The fitting part 34 is a C-shaped rib part that fits on the outer periphery of the water inlet 32d. When the mesh filter 32 is provided in the water storage part 8, as Figure 12B shown, after inserting the mesh filter 32 into the water storage part 8, the mesh filter 32 is rotated. As Figure 12C shown, by fitting the water inlet 32d and the fitting part 34, the mesh filter 32 is positioned at a position connecting the filter path and the water inlet 32d. At this time, the mesh filter 32 is prevented from rotating excessively by a stopper 32f provided on the outer side surface of the water inlet 32d abutting against the fitting part 34. In addition, since the fitting part 34 is made of an elastic material and applies a force to fasten the water inlet 32d from the outside, the rotation of the mesh filter 32 in the opposite direction is suppressed. Thereby, it can be maintained in a state where the filter path and the water inlet 32d are connected, so the pressure loss of the cleaning water is suppressed, and the cleaning performance can be improved. In addition, by positioning the mesh filter 32 near the water inlet 32d, the filter path and the water inlet 32d can be connected with better accuracy.

[0083] As Figure 13As shown, the connecting portion 35a between the filter path 35 and the water guiding port 32d has a multi-layer structure of two or more layers. Thereby, the resistance of the gap generated in the connecting portion 35a can be increased, leakage of the cleaning water from the gap can be suppressed, and thus the pressure loss of the cleaning water can be suppressed and the cleaning performance can be improved.

[0084] FIG. 14 shows an example of a diverter 38 that divides water between a cleaning nozzle path 37 that guides the cleaning water delivered from the cleaning pump 3b to the cleaning nozzle 3c and the filter path 35. The diverter 38 is provided in the middle of the path 36 of the cleaning water delivered from the cleaning pump 3b, and switches between a state where the cleaning nozzle path 37 is open and the filter path 35 is closed, and a state where the cleaning nozzle path 37 is closed and the filter path 35 is open. The diverter 38 may be a surface member that swings between the cleaning nozzle path 37 and the filter path 35, or may be a valve or the like. The state of the diverter 38 is controlled by the control unit 17.

[0085] [1-2. Operation]

[0086] Regarding the tableware washing machine configured as described above, its operation and function will be described below.

[0087] First, the user holds the handle 5a of the door body 5 and pulls out the washing tub 2 from the housing 1 of the tableware washing machine. At this time, the inner lid 10 is interlocked with the pulling-out operation of the washing tub 2 and rises through the link structure 11, leaving the upper surface opening 2a. Next, the user places the object to be cleaned 13 such as tableware into the tableware basket 6 from the upper surface opening 2a of the washing tub 2. Moreover, a predetermined amount of detergent is put into a detergent supply device (not shown) in the washing tub 2. Then, the user pushes the washing tub 2 into the housing 1 and closes the door body 5. At this time, the inner lid 10 is interlocked with the pushing-in operation of the washing tub 2 and descends through the link structure 11, compressing the sealing portion 12 to seal the upper surface opening 2a.

[0088] After the user sets the operation process through an operation unit (not shown) connected to the control unit 17, the user operates a start button (not shown) to start the cleaning operation. Thereby, the control unit 17 performs the cleaning operation according to the operation process. The control unit 17 sequentially performs a cleaning process, a rinsing process, and a drying process by the method described below.

[0089] First, the cleaning process during the cleaning operation will be described. First, the control unit 17 controls the water supply valve 4b so that the water supply valve 4b operates to supply water to the cleaning tank 2, and supplies a predetermined amount of cleaning water to the cleaning tank 2. When the water supply ends, a detergent is introduced by a detergent supply device (not shown). Then, the cleaning pump 3b is driven to pressurize and transport the cleaning water, and the cleaning water is sprayed from the cleaning nozzle 3c disposed at the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank to circulate the cleaning water. While circulating the cleaning water, the control unit 17 energizes a heater (not shown) to heat the cleaning water. At this time, the control unit 17 detects the temperature of the cleaning water through a temperature sensor (not shown) via the wall of the bottom 2b of the cleaning tank. Moreover, the control unit 17 controls the cleaning water to a specified temperature.

[0090] The sprayed cleaning water cleans the dirt of the object to be cleaned 13, passes through the residue filter 9 and the water storage unit 8, and is sucked again by the cleaning pump 3b. At this time, the residue contained in the cleaning water is captured by the residue filter 9. The cleaning pump 3b pressurizes and transports the sucked cleaning water and supplies the cleaning water to the cleaning nozzle 3c. That is, the cleaning water circulates as described above to clean the object to be cleaned 13. The control unit 17 performs the above-described cyclic operation at a specified time (for example, 30 minutes).

[0091] After the control unit 17 finishes the cyclic operation, it discharges the cleaning water containing stains out of the housing 1. At this time, the residue captured by the residue filter 9 is discharged out of the housing 1 together with the cleaning water. Moreover, when the cleaning process ends, the control unit 17 starts the rinsing process and supplies cleaning water into the cleaning tank 2 again.

[0092] Next, in the same manner as the cleaning process, the control unit 17 operates the cleaning pump 3b to spray new cleaning water from the cleaning nozzle 3c onto the object to be cleaned 13. Then, the remaining detergent, residue, etc. are rinsed off the object to be cleaned 13 with the cleaning water. At this time, the control unit 17 repeats the operations such as discharging the cleaning water and supplying the cleaning water multiple times (for example, 2 to 3 times) to perform the rinsing process. Particularly in the final rinsing operation, a heated rinse is performed in which the cleaning water is heated to a high temperature. Thereby, the object to be cleaned 13 and the inside of the cleaning tank 2 are heated to a high temperature, promoting the evaporation of moisture in the drying process.

[0093] Moreover, after the rinsing process ends, the control unit 17 performs the drying process. The control unit 17 controls a blower fan (not shown) and a heater (not shown) to heat the air introduced into the cleaning tank 2 and discharge the moist air in the cleaning tank 2 through a communication path (not shown) to dry the object to be cleaned 13. After the control unit 17 performs the drying process for a specified time (for example, 30 minutes), the cleaning operation of the dishwashing machine ends.

[0094] Figure 15 is a detailed flowchart showing one cleaning operation or rinsing operation in the cleaning process or rinsing process.Figure 16 This is a timing chart showing the states of the respective structures in a single cleaning operation or rinsing operation.

[0095] The control unit 17 opens the water supply valve 4b (S10), and introduces tap water into the cleaning tank 2 until a predetermined amount of water is supplied into the cleaning tank 2 (N in S12). After a predetermined amount of water is supplied into the cleaning tank 2 (Y in S12), the control unit 17 opens the cleaning pump 3b (S14), and sprays cleaning water from the cleaning nozzle 3c to clean the object to be cleaned 13 until a predetermined time has elapsed (N in S16). In the cleaning process and the heated rinsing process, the control unit 17 turns on the heater. After the predetermined time has elapsed (Y in S16), the control unit 17 turns off the cleaning pump 3b (S18). Thus, the in-chamber cleaning process ends.

[0096] The control unit 17 opens the water diverter 38 (S20), and drives the water diverter 38 until the cleaning nozzle path 37 is closed and the filter path 35 is opened (N in S22). When the path starting from the cleaning pump 3b is switched to the filter path 35 (Y in S22), the control unit 17 closes the water diverter 38, opens the drain pump 7b, and starts draining (S24). Next, the control unit 17 opens the cleaning pump 3b (S26), sprays cleaning water from the spout 32c to the grid member 32a, and discharges the residue adhering to the grid member 32a to the outside together with the cleaning water until a predetermined time has elapsed (N in S28). After the predetermined time, which is set in advance as the time when the water level of the cleaning water becomes lower than the spout 32c, has elapsed (Y in S28), the control unit 17 turns off the cleaning pump 3b (S30), and ends the cleaning of the residue filter 9. After the time, which is set in advance as the time for discharging the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 2 to the outside, has elapsed, the control unit 17 turns off the drain pump 7b (S32), and ends the draining. The control unit 17 opens the water diverter 38 (S34), and drives the water diverter until the cleaning nozzle path 37 is opened and the filter path 35 is closed (N in S36). After the path starting from the cleaning pump 3b is switched to the cleaning nozzle path 37 (Y in S36), the filter cleaning process ends, and a single cleaning or rinsing operation ends.

[0097] It is possible to put the cleaning agent into the cleaning tank 2 when starting the heating rinse. Thereby, the contact angle of water can be reduced, further promoting the evaporation of moisture in the drying process. In addition, by performing the filter cleaning process in the drainage after the heating rinse, the cleaning agent contained in the cleaning water can be sprayed on the filter cleaning path 32b or the filter path 35, so that the drying of these paths can also be promoted, and the hygiene can be improved. In the cleaning process or the rinsing process before the heating rinse, most of the residues are discharged to the outside. Therefore, it is also possible to drive the cleaning pump 3b without discharging the cleaning water during or after the heating rinse to perform the filter cleaning process. Thereby, the dirt such as oil components attached to the mesh filter 32 can be efficiently removed.

[0098] [1-3. Effects, etc.]

[0099] As described above, in the present embodiment, the tableware washing machine includes: a housing 1; a cleaning tank 2 provided in the housing 1 for accommodating the object to be cleaned 13; a water storage section 8 provided at the bottom of the cleaning tank 2; a residue filter 9 provided in the water storage section 8 for capturing residues contained in the cleaning water flowing into the water storage section 8; a drainage passage 7a communicating the water storage section 8 and the outside of the housing 1; a spray outlet 32c for spraying the cleaning water for rinsing the residues captured by the residue filter 9 onto the residue filter 9; and the tableware washing machine is configured such that when the cleaning water inside the cleaning tank 2 is discharged to the outside of the housing 1 through the drainage passage 7a, the residues captured by the residue filter 9 are discharged together with the cleaning water, and when the water level of the cleaning water inside the cleaning tank 2 is higher than the spray outlet 32c, the cleaning water is sprayed from the spray outlet 32c onto the residue filter 9. Thereby, the generation of bubbles can be suppressed, so that the abnormal conditions (air entrainment) caused by bubbles mixing into the cleaning pump 3b can be suppressed. In addition, the water potential can reach a wider range, thereby improving the cleaning performance. Further, splashing of water on the water surface can be suppressed, thereby reducing the entrainment of residues and improving the cleaning efficiency.

[0100] In addition, in the present embodiment, the tableware washing machine is provided with a cleaning pump 3b for circulating the cleaning water flowing into the water storage section 8 in the cleaning tank 2, and the number or area of the spray outlets 32c is larger closer to the circulation waterway suction port 32e for sucking the cleaning water into the cleaning pump 3b. Thereby, the cleaning efficiency can be improved.

[0101] In addition, in the present embodiment, the residue filter 9 is provided with a water guide port 32d which is provided to protrude outward from the residue filter 9 for guiding the cleaning water to the spray outlet 32c, and the tableware washing machine is further provided with a fitting portion 34 for positioning the residue filter 9 by fitting with the water guide port 32d. Thereby, the pressure loss of the cleaning water can be suppressed, and the cleaning efficiency can be improved.

[0102] In addition, in the present embodiment, the residue filter 9 is provided with a water inlet 32d which is arranged at the bottom of the residue filter 9 to guide the cleaning water to the spray outlet 32c. Thereby, the cleaning efficiency can be improved.

[0103] In addition, in the present embodiment, the method for controlling the tableware washing machine includes: a step of supplying cleaning water to the cleaning tank 2 to clean the object to be cleaned 13; a step of discharging the cleaning water after the cleaning step is completed; and a step of spraying the cleaning water from the spray outlet 32c when the water level inside the cleaning tank 2 is higher than the spray outlet 32c during the draining step. Thereby, the generation of bubbles can be suppressed, and thus the malfunction (air entrainment) caused by the bubbles mixing into the cleaning pump 3b can be suppressed. In addition, the water potential can reach a wider range, so the cleaning performance can be improved. In addition, the splashing of water on the water surface can be suppressed, thereby reducing the entrainment of residues and improving the cleaning efficiency.

[0104] (Other embodiments)

[0105] As described above, as an example of the technology disclosed in the present application, Embodiment 1 has been described. However, the disclosed technology is not limited thereto, and can also be applied to embodiments in which changes, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. have been made. In addition, the constituent elements described in Embodiment 1 above can be combined as a new embodiment.

[0106] Therefore, other embodiments are exemplified below.

[0107] In Embodiment 1, an in-built type tableware washing machine has been described, but the technology of Embodiment 1 can also be applied to a table-top type tableware washing machine in the same way.

[0108] In Embodiment 1, during the operation of the tableware washing machine, the filter is cleaned during the drainage process of the cleaning process or the rinsing process. However, in addition to the operation process for cleaning the object to be cleaned 13, a dedicated operation process for cleaning the residue filter 9 can also be provided. At this time, similar to Embodiment 1, the cleaning water can be supplied to the cleaning tank 2, or tap water can be directly guided from the water supply passage 4a to the filter cleaning path 32b of the mesh filter 32. In addition, detergent can be automatically added into the cleaning tank 2.

[0109] In addition, the above embodiments are used to illustrate the disclosed technology, and various changes, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0110] [Industrial applicability]

[0111] The present disclosure can be used in tableware washing machines.

[0112] [Explanation of reference numerals]

[0113] 1 Housing

[0114] 1a Front surface opening

[0115] 2 Cleaning tank

[0116] 2a Upper surface opening

[0117] 2b Bottom of cleaning tank

[0118] 3 Cleaning device

[0119] 3a Circulation water path

[0120] 3b Cleaning pump

[0121] 3c Cleaning nozzle

[0122] 4 Water supply section

[0123] 4a Water supply passage

[0124] 4b Water supply valve

[0125] 5 Door body

[0126] 6 Tableware basket

[0127] 7 Drainage section

[0128] 7a Drainage passage

[0129] 7b Drainage pump

[0130] 7c Drainage port

[0131] 8 Water storage section

[0132] 9 Residue filter

[0133] 9c Mesh section

[0134] 10 Inner cover

[0135] 11 Linkage structure

[0136] 12 Sealing section

[0137] 13 Object to be cleaned

[0138] 14 Water injection section

[0139] 14a Water injection port

[0140] 17 Control section

[0141] 20 Guide section

[0142] 20a Wall surface

[0143] 20b Path

[0144] 20c Spray outlet

[0145] 21 Circulation path

[0146] 21a Circulation path

[0147] 21b Circulation pump

[0148] 30 Lattice filter

[0149] 31 Perforated filter

[0150] 32 Mesh filter

[0151] 32a Mesh component

[0152] 32b Filter cleaning path

[0153] 32c Spray outlet

[0154] 32d Water inlet

[0155] 32e Suction inlet of the circulating waterway

[0156] 32f Stop block

[0157] 33 Water level

[0158] 34 Fitting part

[0159] 35 Filter path

[0160] 35a Connection part

[0161] 36 Path

[0162] 37 Cleaning nozzle path

[0163] 38 Water distributor

Claims

1. A tableware washing machine, wherein, Comprising: A housing, A cleaning tank, which is disposed inside the housing and accommodates the object to be cleaned, A water storage part, which is disposed at the bottom of the cleaning tank, A residue filter, which is disposed in the water storage part and captures residues contained in the cleaning water flowing into the water storage part, A drainage passage, which communicates the water storage part with the outside of the housing, and A spray outlet, which sprays cleaning water for cleaning the residues captured by the residue filter towards the residue filter; This tableware washing machine is configured such that when the cleaning water inside the cleaning tank is discharged outside the housing through the drainage passage, the residues captured by the residue filter are discharged together with the cleaning water, The residue filter includes a mesh filter, When the water level of the cleaning water inside the cleaning tank is higher than the spray outlet, cleaning water is sprayed from the spray outlet towards the inside of the mesh member of the mesh filter.

2. The tableware washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, It is provided with a cleaning pump for circulating the cleaning water flowing into the water storage part in the cleaning tank, The closer to the suction port for sucking cleaning water into the cleaning pump, the larger the number or area of the spray outlets.

3. The tableware washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The residue filter is provided with a water guiding port, which is disposed to protrude outward from the residue filter and is used to guide cleaning water to the spray outlet, This tableware washing machine is provided with a fitting part for positioning the residue filter by fitting with the water guiding port.

4. The tableware washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The residue filter is provided with a water guiding port, which is disposed at the bottom of the residue filter and is used to guide cleaning water to the spray outlet.

5. A control method, which is a method for controlling the tableware washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, Comprising: The step of supplying cleaning water to the cleaning tank to clean the object to be cleaned; After the step of cleaning ends, the step of discharging the cleaning water; And In the step of draining, when the water level inside the cleaning tank is higher than the spray outlet, the step of spraying cleaning water from the spray outlet.

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