Washing machine

Abstract

Provided is a washing machine which does not affect the overall size of the washing machine, increases the volume of a treatment agent tank for automatic feeding, and takes into account the convenience of a user when feeding manually. The washing machine has a tub, a feeding container which receives a one-time amount of a treatment agent used in a cleaning operation from a user and supplies the fed treatment agent to the tub, and an automatic feeding device which automatically feeds a prescribed amount of the treatment agent to the tub. The automatic feeding device has a treatment agent tank which can store a plurality of one-time amounts of the treatment agent, and the feeding container is configured to be able to accommodate the treatment agent tank inside.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In recent years, to improve user convenience, washing machines equipped with automatic detergent dispensing devices have been developed. These devices pre-store multiple amounts of detergent in a dispensing tank and automatically dispense the necessary amount during each wash cycle. In this case, increasing the tank volume is more convenient for users to reduce the number of times they need to add detergent. However, increasing the tank volume also tends to increase the overall size of the washing machine. Alternatively, such washing machines sometimes have a dispensing unit for manually adding the necessary amount of detergent during each wash cycle, allowing users to select the detergent according to their preference and the type of clothing. If the dispensing unit is too small, it becomes difficult for users to add detergent.

[0003] On the other hand, due to recent housing conditions, there is a desire to miniaturize washing machines so that they can be installed even in limited spaces. Moreover, in order to miniaturize the washing machine, it is necessary to miniaturize at least one or both of the automatic dispensing tank and the manual dispensing unit.

[0004] Existing technical documents:

[0005] Patent documents:

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-011618 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, a washing machine is provided that does not affect the overall size of the washing machine, while increasing the volume of the automatic dispensing tank and taking into account the user's convenience when dispensing manually.

[0008] The washing machine of this embodiment includes: a water tank; an inlet container for receiving an amount of treatment agent used in a single washing cycle from a user and supplying the inlet treatment agent to the water tank; and an automatic inlet device for automatically inleting a predetermined amount of the treatment agent to the water tank. The automatic inlet device has a treatment agent tank capable of storing the amount of treatment agent used in multiple washing cycles, and the inlet container is configured to internally house the treatment agent tank. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a configuration diagram that schematically illustrates an example of the internal structure of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical configuration of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example configuration of the loading container of the washing machine according to the first embodiment, which is constructed by accommodating one type of processing agent container while disassembling the other.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a perspective view showing an example of a treatment agent tank in a washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the treatment agent tank in the washing machine of the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 7 This refers to the washing machine in the first embodiment. Figure 4 The x7-x7 line shows a cross-sectional view of an example of the internal structure of the container.

[0016] Figure 8 This is an example of the internal structure of the washing machine according to the first embodiment, showing the contents of the feeding container. Figure 7 The cross-sectional view shown is along the x8-x8 line.

[0017] Figure 9 This refers to the washing machine in the first embodiment. Figure 4 The x7-x7 line shows a cross-sectional view of an example of the internal structure of the feed container with the treatment agent box disassembled.

[0018] Figure 10 This refers to the washing machine in the first embodiment. Figure 4 The x7-x7 line shows a cross-sectional view of an example of the internal structure of the input container with the treatment agent tank disassembled.

[0019] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of control operations performed in a control device for a washing machine according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical configuration of the washing machine according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of control operations performed in the control device for a washing machine according to the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 14 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical configuration of the washing machine according to the third embodiment.

[0023] Figure 15This is a flowchart illustrating an example of control content executed in the control device for a washing machine according to the third embodiment.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the internal structure of the loading container of the washing machine according to the fourth embodiment (equivalent to...). Figure 7 (Image).

[0025] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the internal structure of the loading container of the washing machine according to the fourth embodiment (equivalent to...). Figure 8 (Image).

[0026] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the appearance of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment.

[0027] Figure 19 This is a configuration diagram that schematically illustrates an example of the internal structure of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment.

[0028] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the internal structure of the loading container of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment (equivalent to...). Figure 7 (Image)

[0029] Figure 21 This is a configuration diagram that schematically illustrates an example of the internal structure of a washing machine in another embodiment.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0031] 10…washing machine, 12…water tank, 14…control device, 145…report processing unit, 17…operation panel (operation unit), 182…first water supply path, 183…second water supply path, 185…first water supply valve, 186…second water supply valve, 187…third water supply valve (water supply valve), 20…feeding mechanism, 21…feeding container, 211…front wall (wall), 212…side wall (wall), 21… 3… Rear wall (wall), 214… Bottom (wall), 23… Water inlet, 26… Tank sensor, 27… Box sensor, 30… Automatic dispensing device, 31… Treatment agent tank, 336… Tank opening, 39… Support, 40… Treatment agent box, 50… Holding part, 100… Washing machine, 102… Water tank, 300… Dispensing mechanism, 301… Receiving part, 302… Dispensing container, 304… Water inlet Detailed Implementation

[0032] The following is a reference to the appendix. Figure 1 The washing machine with multiple embodiments will be described. Furthermore, in each embodiment, substantially identical elements are labeled with the same reference numerals and descriptions are omitted.

[0033] (First Implementation)

[0034] Reference Figures 1 to 11 The first embodiment will be described. For example... Figures 1-3 As shown, the washing machine 10 includes an outer casing 11, a water tank 12, a rotating drum 13, a control device 14, a rotating drum motor 15, a drainage mechanism 16, an operation panel 17, a water supply mechanism 18, and a dispensing mechanism 20. The dispensing mechanism 20 comprises an automatic dispensing device 30 (described in detail later) and a detergent dispenser 40. The automatic dispensing device 30, which automatically dispenses the detergent, comprises a detergent tank 31 capable of storing the amount of detergent needed for multiple wash cycles. The detergent dispenser 40 receives and stores the detergent when the user manually dispenses it. Furthermore, in... Figure 1 In this design, the side facing down (vertically lower) of the washing machine 10 is designated as the lower side of the washing machine 10, and the side opposite to the facing down (vertically upper) is designated as the upper side of the washing machine 10. The washing machine 10 is a drum-type washing machine in which the rotation axis of the drum 13 is horizontal or inclined downwards towards the rear.

[0035] The washing machine 10 may have a heat pump or heater-type drying function, or it may not have this function. 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 rotatably disposed inside the water tank 12. In this case, the water tank 12 and the rotating drum 13 function as a washing tub for holding laundry.

[0036] like Figure 3 As shown, the control device 14 is primarily configured as a microcomputer with a storage area 142 including a CPU 141, ROM, RAM, and rewritable flash memory, and performs overall control of the washing machine 10. In this embodiment, the control device 14 controls the driving of the drum motor 15, the drainage mechanism 16, the control panel 17, the water supply mechanism 18, and the automatic dispensing device 30. The drum motor 15 is located on the outside of the water tank 12 and connected to the drum 13. Furthermore, the drum motor 15 is electrically connected to the control device 14 and is driven by control signals from the control device 14 to rotate the drum 13.

[0037] Figure 2The drainage mechanism 16 shown has the function of discharging water stored in the water tank 12 to the outside of the washing machine 10. The drainage mechanism 16 has a drainage path 161 and a drain valve 162. The drainage path 161 is, for example, constructed of a flexible drain hose, one end of which is connected to the drain valve 162, and the other end is led out to the outside of the washing machine 10. The drain valve 162 is, for example, constructed of a liquid-operated on / off valve that can be opened and closed electromagnetically. The drain valve 162 is located between the drain outlet 121 provided at the bottom of the water tank 12 and the drainage path 161. The drain valve 162 is electrically connected to the control device 14, and opens and closes the drainage path 161 based on a control signal from the control device 14.

[0038] The control panel 17 is located on the front part of the upper surface of the outer casing 11 and is electrically connected to the control device 14. Although not shown in detail, the control panel 17 includes a power switch, a start button, and various operation buttons for setting the cleaning program. During cleaning, the user can use the control panel 17 to select whether to use treatment agent automatically dispensed by the automatic dispensing device 30 or to use a single-use amount of treatment agent manually dispensed using the treatment agent container 40. In this embodiment, the treatment agent includes detergent, fabric softener, etc.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, the water supply mechanism 18 is, for example, located inside the outer casing 11, on the upper left side of the water tank 12. The water supply mechanism 18 receives water from a water source such as tap water and supplies water to the water tank 12. The water supply mechanism 18 is, for example, located inside the outer casing 11, on the upper left side of the water tank 12. Figure 2 As shown, it includes a water inlet 181, a first water supply path 182, a second water supply path 183, a supply unit 184, a first water supply valve 185, and a second water supply valve 186. The water inlet 181 is located on the upper part of the outer casing 11, protruding to the left and inward. The water inlet 181 is connected, for example, to an external water source such as a tap via a flexible hose.

[0040] Water supply paths 182 and 183 connect the water inlet 181 to the water tank 12 and the rotating tank 13. The first water supply path 182 connects the water inlet 181, the first water supply valve 185, the treatment agent container 40, the water tank 12, and the rotating tank 13. That is, the first water supply path 182 supplies the treatment agent manually added by the user to the treatment agent container 40 to the water tank 12 and the rotating tank 13. The second water supply path 183 connects the water inlet 181, the second water supply valve 186, the supply unit 184, the water tank 12, and the rotating tank 13. The second water supply path 183 supplies the treatment agent discharged to the supply unit 184 via the automatic dispensing device 30 to the water tank 12 and the rotating tank 13. That is, the second water supply path 183 supplies the treatment agent added via the automatic dispensing device 30 to the water tank 12 and the rotating tank 13. In this embodiment, the second water supply path 183, located downstream of the automatic dispensing device 30 and upstream of the water tank 12 and rotating tank 13, merges with the downstream portion of the treatment agent container 40 of the first water supply path 182. In another embodiment, the first water supply path 182 and the second water supply path 183 may be configured to be independent and not merge until they reach the water tank 12 and rotating tank 13.

[0041] The supply unit 184 is located midway through the second water supply path 183, upstream of the confluence with the first water supply path 182, and is the part supplied with treatment agent by the automatic dosing device 30. Water supply valves 185 and 186 are liquid-use on / off valves capable of electromagnetic opening and closing. The first water supply valve 185 is located between the water supply port 181 and the first water supply path 182. The second water supply valve 186 is located between the water supply port 181 and the second water supply path 183. Furthermore, the first water supply valve 185 and the second water supply valve 186 are electrically connected to the control device 14, and the first water supply path 182 or the second water supply path 183 is opened or closed respectively based on control signals from the control device 14.

[0042] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the feeding mechanism 20 also includes a feeding container 21 and a container cover 22. The feeding container 21 is configured as a box-shaped structure with an open top and is located inside the outer casing 11. The feeding container 21 has a front wall portion 211, left and right side walls portions 212, a rear wall portion 213, a bottom portion 214, and a partition portion 215. The front wall portion 211 forms the inner surface of the front side of the feeding container 21. The left and right side walls portions 212 form the inner surfaces of the left and right sides of the feeding container 21. The rear wall portion 213 forms the inner surface of the rear side of the feeding container 21. The bottom portion 214 forms the inner surface of the lower side of the feeding container 21. The front wall portion 211, the left and right side walls portions 212, the rear wall portion 213, and the bottom portion 214 form the walls that surround the interior space of the feeding container 21.

[0043] The divider 215 protrudes upward from the bottom 214 and is formed as a plate extending from the front wall 211 to the rear wall 213, dividing the interior space of the container 21 in the left-right direction. The space on the left side of the divider 215 is, for example, a space for detergent. The space on the right side of the divider 215 is, for example, a space for fabric softener. In this embodiment, the divider 215 is integrally formed with the front wall 211 and the rear wall 213 of the container 21, constituting part of the wall surrounding the interior space of the container 21. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the divider 215 may be detachable from the container 21, or it may be omitted entirely.

[0044] The input container 21 has a water inlet 23, a container outlet 24, and a connection port 25. The water inlet 23 is provided through a portion of the upper part of the input container 21, i.e., the upper part of the wall. The water inlet 23 is provided, for example, in the front wall 211 or the left and right side walls 212. In this embodiment, the water inlet 23 is provided in the front part of the left and right side walls 212. The water inlet 23 forms part of the first water supply path 182 and functions as an inlet for water to enter the input container 21. More specifically, the water inlet 23 supplies water from an external water source to the interior of the treatment agent container 40, and functions as an inlet for water used to dissolve the treatment agent stored inside the treatment agent container 40.

[0045] The container outlet 24 is provided through a portion of the bottom 214. In this case, the container outlet 24 is, for example, located inside the bottom 214, near the center of the input container 21. Alternatively, the bottom 214 may also be, for example, as... Figure 7 As shown, it slopes downward toward container outlet 24. Container outlet 24 forms part of the first water supply path 182 and functions as an outlet for water fed into container 21 and for the treatment agent. In this case, the treatment agent container 40 is located downstream of water inlet 23 and upstream of container outlet 24.

[0046] The connection port 25 is formed by passing through a portion of the rear wall portion 213. The connection port 25 connects the inside and outside of the input container 21, in this case the outside of the input container 21 and the inside of the washing machine outer casing 11. When the treatment agent is added to the water tank 12 using the automatic dispensing device 30, the connection port 25 functions as an outlet for the treatment agent from the input container 21.

[0047] The container cover 22 is rotatably mounted on the outer casing 11, and the opening on top of the input container 21 can be opened and closed. In addition, when the opening on top of the input container 21 is closed, the container cover 22 becomes a so-called "same-surface" state, forming the same surface as the upper surface of the outer casing 11 of the washing machine 10.

[0048] In this case, such as Figure 4 As shown, the first water supply path 182 is configured to include a first water supply path 182a for detergent and a first water supply path 182b for fabric softener. Similarly, the first water supply valve 185 is configured to include a first water supply valve 185a for detergent and a first water supply valve 185b for fabric softener. Hereinafter, without distinction, the first water supply path 182a and the first water supply path 182b will be collectively referred to as the first water supply path 182. Likewise, the first water supply valve 185a and the first water supply valve 185b will be collectively referred to as the first water supply valve 185. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second water supply path 183 and the second water supply valve 186 are interchangeable for both detergent and fabric softener applications. That is, the washing machine 10 includes one second water supply path 183 and one second water supply valve 186 for each application. In another embodiment, the washing machine 10 may also be configured to include multiple second water supply paths 183 for detergent and fabric softener, as well as multiple second water supply valves 186.

[0049] The first water supply path 182 comprises a first water supply valve 185, a water inlet 23, a treatment agent box 40, and a container outlet 24. The second water supply path 183 comprises a second water supply valve 186 and a supply unit 184.

[0050] The treatment agent container 40 is detachably disposed inside the inlet container 21. In this case, the treatment agent container 40 is as follows: Figure 4 As shown, two containers are provided, one on the right and one on the left side of the partition 215. A detergent dispenser 40a is located on the left side of the partition 215. A fabric softener dispenser 40b is located on the right side of the partition 215. Hereinafter, without distinction, dispenser containers 40a and 40b will be collectively referred to as dispenser container 40.

[0051] The detergent dispenser 40 has a main body 41 and a lid 42. The main body 41 is configured as a box with at least a partial opening at the top, and is located above the bottom 214 of the dispensing container 21. The main body 41 has the function of receiving and storing detergent dispensed manually by the user. The main body 41 has a front portion 411, left and right side portions 412, a back portion 413, a bottom portion 414, and a top portion 415. The front portion 411 forms the front side of the main body 41. The left and right side portions 412 form the left and right side portions of the main body 41. The back portion 413 forms the rear side of the main body 41. The bottom portion 414 forms the bottom of the box-shaped main body 41. The top portion 415 forms the top of the main body 41.

[0052] The main body 41 of the container also has a siphon portion 416 and an upper opening 417. The siphon portion 416 is formed as a hollow cylinder with a portion of the bottom part 414 protruding upwards and opening in the vertical direction. When the treatment agent container 40 is housed in the inlet container 21, the siphon portion 416 connects the space inside the main body 41 of the container with the space on the bottom 214 side of the inlet container 21. The upper opening 417 is formed, for example, by extending through a portion of the upper part 415 in a rectangular shape. When the treatment agent container 40 is housed in the inlet container 21, the upper opening 417 connects the space inside the main body 41 of the container with the space inside the inlet container 21 outside the main body 41 of the container.

[0053] The lid 42 is formed as a hollow, bottomed cylinder that is closed at the top and open at the bottom. The lid 42 allows the siphon part 416 to be inserted inside. The treatment agent container 40 is supplied with water from an external water source. If the water level reaches a predetermined height, the water inside the container body 41 is discharged to the outside of the treatment agent container 40 through the siphon part 416 due to the siphon effect.

[0054] The front part 411 of the treatment agent container 40 is positioned further forward than the injection port. Therefore, if water is supplied to the dispensing container 21 through the injection port, water can easily enter the interior of the treatment agent container 40. Furthermore, the front part 411 of the treatment agent container 40 is in direct or indirect contact with the front wall 211 of the dispensing container 21. That is, there is no space, for example, for a user's finger to enter, between the front part 411 of the treatment agent container 40 and the front wall 211 of the dispensing container 21. In this embodiment, the front part 411 of the treatment agent container 40 is directly in contact with the front wall 211 of the dispensing container 21. Therefore, when a user manually dispenses the treatment agent from above the dispensing container 21, the treatment agent easily enters the treatment agent container 40, but is difficult to enter between the dispensing container 21 and the treatment agent container 40.

[0055] The automatic dispensing device 30 has the function of pre-storing multiple amounts of treatment agent and automatically supplying a predetermined amount of treatment agent to the water tank 12 in each of multiple cleaning operations. For example... Figures 1-3 , Figures 7-9 As shown, the automatic dispensing device 30 has a treatment agent tank 31 and a dispensing pump 32.

[0056] Treatment tank 31, for example Figure 5 as well as Figure 6As shown, the container is rectangular and hollow, capable of storing liquid treatment agent inside. In this case, the treatment agent tank 31 has a capacity sufficient to store treatment agent for multiple uses. The capacity of the treatment agent tank 31 is not particularly limited, but for user convenience, it is preferable to set it to at least several hundred mL to about 2 L. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the automatic dispensing device 30 has two treatment agent tanks 31. In this case, one of the two treatment agent tanks 31 is used to store detergent as the treatment agent. The other of the two treatment agent tanks 31 is used to store fabric softener as the treatment agent.

[0057] Furthermore, the capacities of the two treatment tanks 31 can be the same or different. However, in a typical washing operation, more detergent is consumed than fabric softener. Therefore, it is preferable that the capacity of the treatment tank 31 for storing detergent is larger than the capacity of the treatment tank 31 for storing fabric softener.

[0058] The loading container 21 is configured to accommodate two treatment agent tanks 31 arranged horizontally or front-to-back. In this embodiment, the loading container 21 is as follows: Figure 1 As shown, the treatment agent tank 31 can be housed in a left-right arrangement. Additionally, in Figure 4 The image shows the state after the detergent treatment canister 31 is housed in the dispensing container 21 and the fabric softener treatment canister 31 has been removed from the dispensing container 21. Furthermore, each treatment canister 31 can be detachably housed in the dispensing container 21. The user can replenish the treatment agent to each treatment canister 31 with the container cover 22 open.

[0059] The treatment agent tank 31 can be housed inside the inlet container 21 above the treatment agent box 40. The treatment agent tank 31 and the treatment agent box 40 are as follows: Figure 7 , Figure 8 As shown, the treatment agent tank 31 is arranged in an overlapping manner in the vertical direction.

[0060] In this configuration, the treatment agent tank 31 is positioned rearward of the treatment agent container 40. Specifically, the front portion 331 of the treatment agent tank 31 is positioned rearward of the front portion 411 of the treatment agent container 40. Therefore, when the user manually adds the treatment agent to the inlet container 21, or when water is supplied to the inlet container 21 from the inlet, the treatment agent and water easily enter the treatment agent container 40 without touching the treatment agent tank 31.

[0061] The automatic dispensing device 30 has a number of dispensing pumps 32 corresponding to each treatment agent tank 31. In this embodiment, the automatic dispensing device 30 has two treatment agent tanks 31, therefore, it also has two dispensing pumps 32. Figure 2The diagram shows one of two sets of treatment agent tanks 31 and one set of feed pumps 32. The feed pump 32 has a pump connection 321 on the inflow side, which is connected to the treatment agent tank 31. Thus, the treatment agent tank 31 is connected to the supply unit 184 via the corresponding feed pump 32. The feed pump 32 is, for example, an injection pump, which draws a certain amount of treatment agent stored in the treatment agent tank 31 and discharges it to the supply unit 184.

[0062] In this case, the main body of the injection pump 32 is located on the outside of the injection container 21. In this embodiment, the injection pump 32 is located on the rear side of the injection container 21, i.e., on the outside of the rear wall portion 213. The pump connection portion 321 communicates the interior of the injection container 21 with the outside through the connection port 25 located on the wall portion of the injection container 21, which in this case is the rear wall portion 213. In other embodiments, the main body of the injection pump 32 may also be located inside the injection container 21. Furthermore, in yet another embodiment, the main body of the injection pump 32 may also be located inside the treatment agent tank 31.

[0063] In this configuration, when the second water supply valve 186 is open, tap water supplied from the water supply port 181 flows into the second water supply path 183 and passes through the supply section 184. By operating the automatic dispensing device 30, the required amount of treatment agent is pre-supplied to the supply section 184 before the second water supply valve 186 is activated. When the supply section 184 contains treatment agent, water flowing through the second water supply path 183 dissolves the treatment agent and is supplied to the water tank 12. Thus, the automatic dispensing device 30 automatically dispenses a predetermined amount of treatment agent into the water tank 12 during the operation of the washing machine 10.

[0064] Next, also refer to Figures 5-6 The detailed structure of the treatment agent tank 31 is described below. The treatment agent tank 31 is as follows: Figure 6 As shown, the tank includes a tank body 33, a cover component 34, a filter component 35, a tank outlet 36, a pipe section 37, a leak-proof valve 38, and one or more, in this case, two support sections 39. The tank body 33 forms the outer shell of the treatment agent tank 31 and is made of, for example, a synthetic resin such as plastic.

[0065] In this embodiment, the can body 33 is generally formed into a cuboid shape, having a front portion 331, a side portion 332, a back portion 333, a bottom portion 334, and a top portion 335. The front portion 331 constitutes the front of the can body 33. The side portions 332 constitute the left and right sides of the can body 33. The back portion 333 constitutes the back of the can body 33. The bottom portion 334 constitutes the bottom of the can body 33. Furthermore, the top portion 335 constitutes the top of the can body 33. In addition, the can body 33 has a can opening 336. The can opening 336 is formed, for example, in a rectangular shape, penetrating a portion of the top portion 335, communicating between the interior and exterior of the can body 33.

[0066] The lid component 34 is plate-shaped and, like the can body 33, is made of a synthetic resin such as plastic. The lid component 34 is mounted to the upper part 335 of the can body 33 via a hinge (not shown), and is configured to allow the can opening 336 to be opened and closed. The user can open the lid component 34 and add the treatment agent into the can body 33 through the can opening 336.

[0067] The filter component 35 is configured as a mesh and is disposed within the tank body 33. The filter component 35 separates the space on the side of the tank opening 336 from the space where the pipe 37 is located within the internal space of the tank body 33. Thus, the filter component 35 has the function of collecting debris and other contaminants contained in the detergent when it is replenished into the tank body 33 from the tank opening 336 and drawn into the pump 32 through the pipe 37.

[0068] The can outlet 36 is located at the lower rear part of the can body 33, which in this case is the back part 333. A pump connection 321 for the feed pump 32 is inserted into the can outlet 36. The pump connection 321 extends from the outside to the inside of the feed container 21 through the connection port 25 of the feed container 21. Thus, the can body 33 is connected to the feed pump 32. A pipe 37 is connected to the can outlet 36 and extends vertically downwards to near the bottom part 334 of the can body 33. The lower end of the pipe 37 is slightly away from the bottom part 334 of the can body 33.

[0069] A leak-proof valve 38 is provided between the tank outlet 36 and the pipe section 37. The leak-proof valve 38 functions to prevent the treatment agent stored in the tank body 33 from leaking out of the tank body 33 from the tank outlet 36 when the treatment agent tank 31 is detached from the input container 21 and the pump connection 321 is not connected to the tank outlet 36. When the pump connection 321 is connected to the tank outlet 36, the leak-proof valve 38 opens the gap between the tank outlet 36 and the pipe section 37. This allows the input pump 32 to draw out the treatment agent stored in the tank body 33. Conversely, when the pump connection 321 is not connected to the tank outlet 36, the leak-proof valve 38 closes the gap between the tank outlet 36 and the pipe section 37, thereby preventing the treatment agent in the tank body 33 from flowing out of the tank outlet 36.

[0070] The support portion 39 has the function of holding at least a portion of the tank body 33, namely at least a portion of the front portion 331, the side portion 332, the back portion 333, and the bottom portion 334, in a position separated from the wall of the input container 21 when the treatment agent tank 31 is housed in the input container 21. In this embodiment, when the treatment agent tank 31 is housed in the input container 21, at least the bottom portion 334 of the tank body 33 is located in a position separated from the bottom 214 of the input container 21. As a result, when water is injected from the water inlet 23, the water is not blocked by the treatment agent tank 31 and can reach the container outlet 24 through the gap created between the treatment agent tank 31 and the bottom 214 of the input container 21.

[0071] The support portion 39 is, for example, formed in the shape of a plate, extending downward from the left and right ends of the bottom portion 334. In this embodiment, the support portion 39 is integrally formed with the can body 33. In another embodiment, the support portion 39 and the can body 33 may be formed separately. With the treatment agent can 31 and the treatment agent box 40 housed in the loading container 21, at least a portion of the treatment agent box 40 is located between the two support portions 39.

[0072] Furthermore, in this embodiment, with the treatment agent tank 31 housed in the inlet container 21, at least a portion of the tank body 33 is located separately from the wall of the inlet container 21. In this embodiment, at least the front portion 331 of the tank body 33 is located separately from the front wall portion 211 of the inlet container 21. The space between the tank body 33 and the wall of the inlet container 21 functions as an inlet path when the user inlets the treatment agent into the treatment agent container 40. Additionally, the treatment agent tank 31 is configured such that the tank opening 336 is positioned further rearward than the water inlet 23. In this embodiment, the treatment agent tank 31 is configured such that the front portion 331 is positioned further rearward than the water inlet 23. That is, the front portion 331, when viewed from above, is located in a position that does not overlap with the water inlet 23 and is located closer to the center of the inlet container 21 than the water inlet 23. Therefore, when water is supplied from the water inlet 23, water splashing directly onto the treatment agent tank 31, particularly the upper portion 335, can be prevented.

[0073] In addition, washing machine 10 can be like Figure 9 or Figure 10As shown, the washing machine operates with only one of the detergent tank 31 and the detergent dispenser 40 housed in the dispensing container 21. That is, the user can operate the washing machine 10 to perform a washing cycle while using only one of the detergent tank 31 or the detergent dispenser 40, with the other removed. Furthermore, the detergent dispensing mode and the fabric softener dispensing mode can be selected independently. That is, the detergent can be dispensed automatically, and the fabric softener can be dispensed manually, or vice versa. Of course, the detergent and fabric softener dispensing modes can also be the same.

[0074] Furthermore, the dispensing mechanism 20 includes a can sensing unit 26 and a cartridge sensing unit 27. The can sensing unit 26 senses when the treatment agent can 31 is contained within the dispensing container 21. The cartridge sensing unit 27 senses when the treatment agent cartridge 40 is contained within the dispensing container 21. In this case, each sensing unit 26 and 27 can be either a physical sensor that detects contact between the treatment agent can 31 and the treatment agent cartridge 40, or a non-contact sensor.

[0075] In this embodiment, each sensing unit 26, 27 is a non-contact magnetic sensor, such as a Hall effect IC. The treatment agent container 31 and the treatment agent housing 40 each have sensing units 28, 29. The sensing units 28, 29 are configured, for example, to include permanent magnets. The control device 14 stores in the storage area 142 the intensity of the magnetic field sensed by each sensing unit 26, 27 when the treatment agent container 31 and the treatment agent housing 40 are housed in the loading container 21. Then, the control device 14 compares the intensity of the magnetic field stored in the storage area 142 with the intensity of the magnetic field sensed by each sensing unit 26, 27, and determines whether the treatment agent container 31 and the treatment agent housing 40 are housed in the loading container 21.

[0076] Each sensing unit 26, 27 is provided corresponding to one treatment agent canister 31 and one treatment agent box 40. That is, in this embodiment, two sensing units 26, 27 are provided respectively corresponding to the treatment agent canister 31 or treatment agent box 40 for detergent and fabric softener.

[0077] The sensing unit 28 is located in the tank body 33 of the treatment agent tank 31. More specifically, the sensing unit 28 is located on the side portion 332 near the side wall portion 212 of the input container 21. In this case, the sensing unit 28 may also be embedded in the side portion 332. The sensing unit 26 is located on the side wall portion 212 of the input container 21, opposite to the sensing unit 28. The sensing unit 26 may also be embedded in the side wall portion 212 and not exposed externally.

[0078] The sensing part 29 is provided on the main body 41 of the treatment agent container 40. More specifically, the sensing part 29 is provided on the back side 413 of the treatment agent container 40. In this case, the sensing part 29 may also be embedded in the back side 413. The sensing part 27 is provided on the rear wall 213 of the inlet container 21 at a position opposite to the sensing part 29. The sensing part 27 may also be embedded in the rear wall 213 on the outside of the inlet container 21 and not exposed on the side of the inlet container 21.

[0079] In this embodiment, the storage area 142 of the control device 14 stores programs for performing can sensing and judgment processing, box sensing and judgment processing, and report processing. The control device 14 executes these programs in the CPU 141 to virtually implement the can sensing and judgment processing unit 143, the box sensing and judgment processing unit 144, and the report processing unit 145 using software. Alternatively, these can sensing and judgment processing units 143, 144, and 145 can also be implemented in hardware as an integrated circuit integrated with the control device 14.

[0080] The can sensing and processing unit 143 is capable of performing can sensing and processing. This can sensing and processing determines whether a container for containing processing agent 31 is present based on the output of the can sensing unit 26. Additionally, the box sensing and processing unit 144 is capable of performing box sensing and processing. This box sensing and processing determines whether a container for containing processing agent 40 is present based on the output of the box sensing unit 27.

[0081] The report processing unit 145 is capable of performing report processing. Report processing is the process of reporting information related to the washing machine 10 to the user. Specifically, the report processing is as follows: when the automatic or manual dispensing setting is inconsistent with the storage state of the treatment agent tank 31 or the treatment agent container 40, the report processing unit 145 uses a display unit (not shown), a speaker, etc. on the operation panel 17 to report information urging the user to improve the status. In this embodiment, when the user inputs to the operation panel 17 to set automatic dispensing and the tank sensing and judgment processing unit 143 detects that the treatment agent tank 31 is not stored in the dispensing container 21, the report processing unit 145 reports information urging the user to store the treatment agent tank 31. In addition, when the user inputs to the operation panel 17 to set manual dispensing and the container sensing and judgment processing unit 144 detects that the treatment agent container 40 is not stored in the dispensing container 21, the report processing unit 145 reports information urging the user to store the treatment agent container 40. In addition, the report processing unit 145 uses a display unit (not shown) and speakers (not shown) on the operation panel 17 to report to the user.

[0082] Next, while referring to Figure 11The control content of the can sensing and judgment processing in the can sensing and judgment processing unit 143, the box sensing and judgment processing in the box sensing and judgment processing unit 144, and the report processing in the report processing unit 145 will be explained. In this case, the processing performed by the control device 14 is performed before the cleaning operation begins. Furthermore, in the following description, the control actions in the can sensing and judgment processing unit 143, the box sensing and judgment processing unit 144, and the report processing unit 145 will all be described as control actions of the control device 14. Additionally, in... Figure 11 The flowchart begins with the washing machine 10 being powered on and the washing operation being set by the user through the operation panel 17.

[0083] When the control device 14 begins processing (start), it first determines in step S11 whether the user's input to the operation panel 17 indicates automatic or manual operation. Furthermore, the washing machine 10 is set to automatic operation at the factory. Additionally, the storage area 142 stores the settings from the previous use; if the user does not input anything to the panel 17, the control device 14 sets the automatic or manual operation setting to be the same as the previous setting.

[0084] When the setting is automatic dispensing ("automatic dispensing" in step S11), the control device 14 performs tank sensing and judgment processing (step S12). If the treatment agent tank 31 is sensed ("Yes" in step S12), the control device 14 ends the processing related to the dispensing mode setting (end). If the treatment agent tank 31 is not sensed ("No" in step S12), the control device 14 performs report processing (step S13). Thus, the user receives a report indicating that the treatment agent tank 31 is not contained in the dispensing container 21. Then, the control device 14 ends the processing related to the dispensing mode setting (end).

[0085] When the setting is manual dispensing ("manual dispensing" in step S11), the control device 14 performs a cartridge sensing determination process (step S14). If the treatment cartridge 40 is sensed ("yes" in step S14), the control device 14 ends the processing related to the dispensing mode setting (end). If the treatment cartridge 40 is not sensed ("no" in step S14), the report processing unit 145 performs report processing (step S15). Thus, the user receives a report indicating that the treatment cartridge 40 is not contained in the dispensing container 21. Then, the control device 14 ends the processing related to the dispensing mode setting (end).

[0086] Then, if the setting is in automatic mode and the treatment agent tank 31 is sensed, or if the setting is in manual mode and the treatment agent container 40 is sensed, the control device 14 performs the cleaning operation as is. Alternatively, if a report processing has been performed, the control device 14 will not perform the cleaning operation until user improvements are made, i.e., changes to the setting or dispensing mode of the treatment agent tank 31 or the treatment agent container 40. In another embodiment, the control device 14 may also be configured to perform the cleaning operation after a predetermined period, even if no user improvements are made, after a report processing has been performed.

[0087] According to the embodiments described above, the washing machine 10 includes a water tank 12, a dispensing container 21, and an automatic dispensing device 30. The dispensing container 21 is configured to receive a single amount of treatment agent used in a washing cycle from the user and supply the dispensed treatment agent to the water tank. The automatic dispensing device 30 is configured to automatically dispense a predetermined amount of treatment agent into the water tank 12. The automatic dispensing device 30 has a treatment agent tank 31 capable of storing the amount of treatment agent used in multiple washing cycles. The dispensing container 21 is configured to internally house the treatment agent tank 31.

[0088] Accordingly, the space inside the washing machine 10 can be shared by the automatic dispensing tank 31 and the manual dispensing container 21, thereby increasing the volume of both the dispensing tank 31 and the container 21. By increasing the volume of the dispensing tank 31, the amount of dispensing agent that can be stored at once increases, thus reducing the frequency of refilling and the user's workload. Furthermore, the container 21, which is easily miniaturized due to the inclusion of both the automatic dispensing device 30 and the dispensing container 21, can be enlarged, making it easier to dispense the dispensing agent even when manually dispensing it. Therefore, a washing machine can be provided that increases the volume of the automatic dispensing tank 31 while also considering user convenience during manual dispensing, without affecting the overall size of the washing machine.

[0089] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 also includes a detergent dispenser 40. The detergent dispenser 40 is disposed within the dispensing container 21 and is configured to store the detergent dispensed by the user. The detergent tank 31 is disposed above the detergent dispenser 40 within the dispensing container 21.

[0090] Accordingly, the treatment agent tank 31 and the treatment agent container 40 can be arranged vertically to effectively utilize the space inside the washing machine 10. Furthermore, it is believed that users will increasingly utilize automatic dispensing compared to manual dispensing. By positioning the treatment agent tank 31 above the treatment agent container 40, users can easily refill the treatment agent tank 31 without removing it from the dispensing container 21. Therefore, user convenience is improved.

[0091] In this configuration, the treatment agent container 40 receives water from the upper water inlet 23 and the water flows into it. The treatment agent and water flow through the first water supply path 182 via the lower siphon 416 and the container outlet 24 at the bottom 214 of the input container 21. Therefore, with the treatment agent container 40 positioned at the top, a mechanism is needed to prevent water containing the treatment agent from splashing into the treatment agent tank 31. On the other hand, regarding the treatment agent tank 31, the treatment agent is drawn out from the tank outlet 36 by the input pump 32 and flows into the second water supply path 183. In this embodiment, since the treatment agent tank 31 is positioned at the top, there is no concern about water flowing through the treatment agent container 40 splashing into the treatment agent tank 31.

[0092] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 can perform washing operations with only one of the treatment agent tank 31 or the treatment agent container 40 housed in the input container 21. That is, the washing machine 10 can perform washing operations with either the treatment agent tank 31 or the treatment agent container 40 removed from the input container 21.

[0093] Therefore, users can either install only the treatment agent tank 31 or only the treatment agent box 40 inside the input container 21. Alternatively, users can install both the treatment agent tank 31 and the treatment agent box 40. Thus, the configuration of the input container 21 can be freely selected according to the user's preferences and convenience.

[0094] If water injected from the water inlet 23 enters the treatment agent tank 31, which stores the treatment agent for a relatively long period of time, there is a concern that the treatment agent in the treatment agent tank 31 may be diluted or mixed with impurities, leading to a deterioration in the quality of the treatment agent.

[0095] In contrast, the feed container 21 has a water inlet 23 for injecting water into the treatment agent container 40. The treatment agent tank 31 has a tank opening 336 for replenishing the treatment agent. The tank opening 336 is located in a position that does not overlap with the water inlet in the vertical direction when the treatment agent tank 31 is placed in the feed container 21.

[0096] Therefore, even when water is injected from the water inlet 23 while the treatment agent tank 31 is housed in the input container 21, water can be prevented from entering the interior of the treatment agent tank 31 through the tank opening 336. Thus, the quality deterioration of the treatment agent inside the treatment agent tank 31 can be suppressed.

[0097] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 has a first water supply path 182 and a second water supply path 183. The first water supply path 182 is the path for discharging the treatment agent stored in the input container 21, which is outside the treatment agent tank 31, into the water tank 12. The second water supply path 183 is the path for discharging the treatment agent stored in the treatment agent tank 31 into the water tank 12. The second water supply path 183 does not pass through the portion inside the input container 21 and outside the treatment agent tank 31.

[0098] Accordingly, by adopting a configuration that does not allow the treatment agent in the treatment agent tank 31 to be added to the input container 21, it is possible to suppress the situation where the treatment agent adheres to the outer surface of the treatment agent tank 31 and causes contamination when using the automatic input device 30.

[0099] Here, we examine the case where the treatment agent tank 31 is in contact with the walls 211, 212, 213, and 214 of the input container 21. In this case, when the treatment agent tank 31 is manually added while it is housed in the input container 21, there is a concern that the water, including the water injected from the water inlet 23 and the treatment agent stored in the treatment agent box 40, may be obstructed by the treatment agent tank 31 and unable to exit from the container outlet 24, thus failing to reach the water tank 12.

[0100] In contrast, when the treatment agent tank 31 is contained within the input container 21, at least a portion of it is separated from the walls 211, 212, 213, and 214 of the input container 21. In this case, the front part 331 and the bottom part 334 of the treatment agent tank 31 are separated from the front wall 211 and the bottom 214 of the input container 21, respectively.

[0101] Accordingly, water, including water injected from the water inlet 23 and treatment agent stored in the treatment agent container 40, reaches the container outlet 24 through the gap between the treatment agent tank 31 and the input container 21. Thus, it is possible to prevent obstruction of the supply of water and treatment agent to the water tank 12 through the first water supply path 182.

[0102] Furthermore, while the partition 215 is provided in this embodiment, it can also be omitted. In this case, the water supplied from the first water supply path 182a and the second water supply path 183a on the detergent side and the water supplied from the first water supply path 182b and the second water supply path 183b on the fabric softener side can move freely within the dispensing container 21. Consider, for example, the case where detergent is manually dispensed and fabric softener is automatically dispensed. If the control device 14 opens the first water supply valve 185a to fill the dispensing container 21, the water containing detergent may move to the portion containing the fabric softener tank 31 since there is no partition 215. In this case, if the fabric softener tank 31 is grounded to the bottom 214 of the dispensing container 21, there is a concern that the outer periphery of the fabric softener tank 31 may be contaminated by the detergent-containing water. The same applies to the cases of automatic detergent dispensing and manual fabric softener dispensing.

[0103] In contrast, the bottom part 334 of the treatment agent tank 31 is separated from the front wall 211 and bottom 214 of the input container 21. Therefore, even without the partition 215, it is possible to prevent the treatment agent tank 31 from being contaminated by treatment agents of a different type than the treatment agents stored inside.

[0104] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 includes an operation panel 17, a control device 14, a tank sensor 26, and a report processing unit 145 as the operation unit. The operation panel 17 allows the user to switch between an automatic mode (where the treatment agent tank is added to the water tank) and a manual mode (where the treatment agent added to the dispensing container 21 is added to the water tank 12). The control device 14 executes either the automatic or manual mode based on the selection operation made on the operation panel 17. The tank sensor 26 senses whether the treatment agent tank 31 is contained in the dispensing container 21. The report processing unit 145 reports information related to the washing machine to the user. If the tank sensor 26 does not detect the treatment agent tank 31, the control device 14 uses the report processing unit 145 to perform a report indicating that the treatment agent tank 31 is not present.

[0105] Therefore, it is possible to prevent users from selecting the automatic operation mode without noticing that the treatment agent tank 31 is empty. Consequently, it is possible to prevent situations where cleaning operations are performed without treatment agent or where the automatic dispensing device 30 operates unnecessarily, leading to wear and tear on components.

[0106] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 also includes an operation panel 17, a control device 14, a cartridge sensor 27, and a report processing unit 145 as the operation unit. The operation panel 17 allows the user to switch between an automatic mode (dispensing the treatment agent from the treatment agent tank into the water tank) and a manual mode (dispensing the treatment agent from the treatment agent cartridge 40 into the water tank 12). The control device 14 executes either the automatic or manual mode based on the selection operation made on the operation panel 17. The cartridge sensor 27 senses whether the treatment agent cartridge 40 is contained in the dispensing container 21. The report processing unit 145 reports information related to the washing machine to the user. If the cartridge sensor 27 does not detect the treatment agent cartridge 40, the control device 14 uses the report processing unit 145 to perform a report indicating that the treatment agent cartridge 40 is not present.

[0107] Therefore, it is possible to prevent users from selecting manual mode without noticing that the treatment agent container 40 is empty. Consequently, it is possible to prevent cleaning operations from being performed without treatment agent.

[0108] (Second Implementation)

[0109] Next, refer to Figure 12 as well as Figure 13The second embodiment will now be described. In the second embodiment, the storage area 142 of the control device 14 also stores a program for executing automatic mode disable processing and manual mode disable processing. By executing this program in the CPU 141, the control device 14 virtually implements the automatic mode disable processing unit 146 and the manual mode disable processing unit 147. Alternatively, these automatic mode disable processing units 146 and manual mode disable processing units 147 may also be implemented in hardware, for example, as an integrated circuit integrated with the control device 14.

[0110] The automatic mode prohibition processing unit 146 can perform automatic mode prohibition processing. Automatic mode prohibition processing prevents the user from selecting automatic dispensing. The manual mode prohibition processing unit 147 can perform manual mode prohibition processing. Manual mode prohibition processing prevents the user from selecting manual dispensing. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the reporting processing is the process of informing the user that neither the treatment agent tank 31 nor the treatment agent container 40 is contained within the dispensing container 21.

[0111] Next, while referring to Figure 13 The following description will explain the control operations performed by the control device 14, including the automatic mode disabling processing performed by the automatic mode disabling processing unit 146 and the manual mode disabling processing unit 147. Furthermore, in the following explanation, the control actions of both the automatic mode disabling processing unit 146 and the manual mode disabling processing unit 147 will be described as control actions of the control device 14.

[0112] If the control device 14 starts processing (start), it first performs a tank sensing judgment process in step S21. If the processing agent tank 31 is sensed ("Yes" in step S21), the control device 14 proceeds the processing to step S23. If the processing agent tank 31 is not sensed ("No" in step S21), the control device 14 proceeds the processing to step S22. In step S22, the control device 14 performs an automatic mode disable process. Therefore, the user cannot select automatic operation.

[0113] Next, the control device 14 performs a cartridge sensing and judgment process in step S23. If the treatment cartridge 40 is sensed ("Yes" in step S23), the control device 14 proceeds to step S25. If the treatment container 31 is not sensed ("No" in step S23), the control device 14 proceeds to step S24. In step S24, the control device 14 performs a manual mode disabling process. Therefore, the user cannot select manual operation.

[0114] Next, in step S25, the control device 14 determines whether both automatic and manual input are prohibited. If at least one or both of automatic and manual input are not prohibited ("No" in step S25), the control device 14 terminates the process (ends). If both automatic and manual input are prohibited ("Yes" in step S25), the control device 14 proceeds to step S26. In step S26, the control device 14 performs a report. Thus, the user receives a report indicating that neither the treatment agent tank 31 nor the treatment agent container 40 is contained within the input container 21. Afterwards, the control device 14 terminates the process (ends).

[0115] If a report has been processed, the control device 14 will not perform a cleaning operation until there is a user improvement, i.e., the installation of the treatment agent tank 31 or the treatment agent container 40. In another embodiment, the control device 14 may be configured to perform a cleaning operation after a predetermined period, even if there is no user improvement, after performing a report.

[0116] According to the implementation method described above, the same effect as the first implementation method described above can be obtained.

[0117] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 includes an operation panel 17, a control device 14, and a tank sensor 26 as the operation unit. The operation panel 17 allows the user to switch between an automatic mode (dispensing the treatment agent from the treatment agent tank into the water tank) and a manual mode (dispensing the treatment agent from the dispensing container 21 into the water tank 12). Based on the selection operation made on the operation panel 17, the control device 14 executes operation based on either the automatic or manual mode. The tank sensor 26 senses whether the treatment agent tank 31 is contained in the dispensing container 21. If the tank sensor 26 does not sense the treatment agent tank 31, the control device 14 performs an automatic mode disabling process, preventing the selection of the automatic mode.

[0118] Therefore, it is possible to prevent users from selecting the automatic mode without noticing that the treatment agent tank 31 is empty. This prevents situations where cleaning operations are performed without treatment agent, or where the automatic dispensing device 30 operates unnecessarily, leading to wear and tear on components. Furthermore, since the automatic mode selection operation itself is not performed, users do not need to spend time and effort receiving reports of incorrect settings and having to reselect. Thus, user convenience is further improved.

[0119] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 includes an operation panel 17, a control device 14, and a container sensor 27 as the operation unit. The operation panel 17 allows the user to switch between an automatic mode (dispensing the treatment agent from the treatment agent tank into the water tank) and a manual mode (dispensing the treatment agent from the treatment agent container 40 into the water tank 12). The control device 14 executes either the automatic or manual mode based on the selection operation made on the operation panel 17. The container sensor 27 senses whether the treatment agent container 40 is contained in the dispensing container 21. If the container sensor 27 does not sense the treatment agent container 40, the control device 14 performs a manual mode disabling process, preventing the selection of the manual mode.

[0120] Therefore, it is possible to prevent users from selecting manual mode without noticing that the treatment agent container 40 is empty. This prevents cleaning operations from being performed without treatment agent. Furthermore, since the manual mode selection operation itself cannot be performed, users do not need to spend effort receiving reports of incorrect settings and having to re-select the mode. Thus, user convenience is further improved.

[0121] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 includes a can sensor 26, a container sensor 27, and a report processing unit 145. The can sensor 26 senses when the treatment agent can 31 is contained in the dispensing container 21. The container sensor 27 senses when the treatment agent container 40 is contained in the dispensing container 21. The report processing unit 145 reports information related to the washing machine 10 to the user. If the can sensor 26 does not sense the treatment agent can 31 and the container sensor 27 does not sense the treatment agent container 40, the control device 14 performs report processing by using the report processing unit 145 to report this information.

[0122] Accordingly, the user can receive a report of this information when neither the treatment agent tank 31 nor the treatment agent box 40 is contained in the input container 21, thus preventing the cleaning operation from being performed without treatment agent.

[0123] (Third Implementation)

[0124] Next, refer to Figure 14 as well as Figure 15 The third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, the storage area 142 of the control device 14 also stores a program for performing automatic mode setting processing and manual mode setting processing. By executing this program in the CPU 141, the control device 14 can virtually implement the automatic mode setting processing unit 148 and the manual mode setting processing unit 149. Alternatively, these automatic mode setting processing units 148 and manual mode setting processing units 149 can also be implemented in hardware, for example, as an integrated circuit integrated with the control device 14.

[0125] The automatic mode setting processing unit 148 is capable of performing automatic mode setting processing. Automatic mode setting processing is the process of setting automatic dispensing without any selection operation from the user on the operation panel 17. The manual mode setting processing unit 149 is capable of performing manual mode setting processing. Manual mode setting processing is the process of setting manual dispensing without any selection operation from the user on the operation panel 17. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the reporting processing is the process of informing the user that neither the treatment agent container 31 nor the treatment agent housing 40 is contained within the dispensing container 21.

[0126] Next, while referring to Figure 15 The following description will explain the control operations performed by the control device 14, including the automatic mode setting processing performed by the automatic mode setting processing unit 148 and the manual mode setting processing unit 149. Furthermore, in the following explanation, the control actions of both the automatic mode setting processing unit 148 and the manual mode setting processing unit 149 will be described as control actions of the control device 14.

[0127] If the control device 14 starts processing (start), it first performs a tank sensing determination process in step S31. If the treatment agent tank 31 is sensed ("Yes" in step S31), the control device 14 proceeds to step S32. In step S32, the control device 14 performs a cartridge sensing determination process. If the treatment agent cartridge 40 is sensed ("Yes" in step S32), the control device 14 ends the processing (end) without changing the setting of the dispensing mode. In this case, if there is a pre-existing user setting, the control device 14 will then perform a cleaning operation with that setting; otherwise, the control device 14 will then perform a cleaning operation with the previously set dispensing mode.

[0128] If the treatment agent cartridge 40 is not detected (No in step S32), the control device 14 performs automatic mode setting processing (step S33). After that, the control device 14 ends the processing (end). In this case, the control device 14 then performs a cleaning operation in automatic mode.

[0129] If the treatment agent container 31 is not detected (No in step S31), the control device 14 initiates the process to step S34. In step S34, the control device 14 performs a manual mode setting process. Next, the control device 14 performs a container sensing determination process in step S35. If the treatment agent container 40 is detected (Yes in step S35), the control device 14 terminates the process (ends). In this case, the control device 14 then performs a cleaning operation in manual mode.

[0130] If the treatment agent container 40 is not detected (No in step S32), the control device 14 performs a report in step S36. Thus, the user receives a report indicating that neither the treatment agent tank 31 nor the treatment agent container 40 is contained in the delivery container 21. Afterwards, the control device 14 ends the process (end).

[0131] If the control device 14 performs report processing, the cleaning operation is not performed until there is user improvement, i.e., the installation of the treatment agent tank 31 or the treatment agent container 40. In another embodiment, the control device 14 may be configured to perform cleaning operation after a predetermined period even if there is no user improvement, after performing report processing.

[0132] The same effects as those described above can be obtained by implementing the above-described embodiments.

[0133] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the washing machine 10 includes an operation panel 17 as an operation unit, a control device 14, and a tank sensor 26. The operation panel 17 allows the user to switch between an automatic mode (where the treatment agent in the treatment agent tank is added to the water tank) and a manual mode (where the treatment agent added to the dispensing container 21 is added to the water tank 12). The control device 14 executes operation based on either the automatic or manual mode based on the selection operation performed on the operation panel 17. The tank sensor 26 senses whether the treatment agent tank 31 is contained in the dispensing container 21. If the tank sensor 26 does not sense the treatment agent tank 31, the control device 14 performs a manual mode setting process to set the operation to manual mode.

[0134] Therefore, if the treatment agent tank 31 is not contained, the manual mode is automatically set. Thus, the user does not need to manually select the manual mode, thereby improving user convenience.

[0135] Furthermore, the washing machine 10 includes an operation panel 17, a control device 14, and a container sensor 27 as the operation unit. The operation panel 17 switches between an automatic mode where the user accepts the dispensing of the treatment agent from the treatment agent tank into the water tank, and a manual mode where the treatment agent from the treatment agent container 40 is dispensing into the water tank 12. Based on the selection operation made on the operation panel 17, the control device 14 executes operation based on either the automatic or manual mode. The container sensor 27 senses whether the treatment agent container 40 is contained in the dispensing container 21. If the container sensor 27 does not sense the treatment agent container 40, the control device 14 executes an automatic mode setting process to set the operation based on the automatic mode.

[0136] Therefore, if the treatment agent container 40 is not contained, the automatic mode is automatically set. Thus, the user does not need to manually select the automatic mode, thereby improving user convenience.

[0137] (Fourth Implementation)

[0138] Next, refer to Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 The fourth embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the treatment agent container 31 does not have a support portion 39. Instead, the input container 21 has a holding portion 50. The holding portion 50 functions to hold the treatment agent container 31 at a position away from the bottom 214 of the input container 21. In this case, the holding portion 50 is provided protruding from the left and right side walls 212 and the partition portion 215 of the input container 21 toward the treatment agent container 31. The position of the holding portion 50 is at least set above the position of the treatment agent box body 40. In this embodiment, the position of the holding portion 50 is set at a position that contacts the bottom portion 334 of the treatment agent container 31. Moreover, the treatment agent container 31, in this case the bottom portion 334 of the treatment agent container 31, is held by a set of holding portions 50 protruding from the side walls 212 and the partition portion 215 of the input container 21. Thus, the bottom portion 334 of the treatment agent container 31 is held away from the bottom 214 of the input container 21.

[0139] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the position of the retaining part 50 may be set at the position corresponding to the side portion 332 of the treatment agent container 31. In this case, for example, steps may be provided on the left and right side portions 332 to hold the retaining part 50 in place by engaging the steps on the side portions 332.

[0140] The control device 14 can also perform any of the controls described in the first to third embodiments above. According to this embodiment, the same effects as those in the above embodiments can also be obtained.

[0141] (Fifth Implementation)

[0142] Next, refer to Figure 18 , Figure 19 as well as Figure 20 The fifth embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, a so-called vertical washing machine 100, in which the rotation axis of the drum is oriented vertically, includes an insertion mechanism 20. The washing machine 100 may or may not have a drying function.

[0143] The washing machine 100 includes a washing machine body 101, a water tank 102, a rotating drum 103, a motor 104, and a drain valve 105. Additionally, Figure 18 The left side is set as the front side of the washing machine 100, and the left side is set as the front side of the washing machine 100. Figure 18The right side is designated as the rear side of the washing machine 100. In this case, the user is usually located in front of the washing machine 100. Furthermore, the side of the washing machine 100 with its mounting surface, i.e., the lower vertical side, is designated as the lower side of the washing machine 100, and the side opposite to the mounting surface, i.e., the upper vertical side, is designated as the upper side of the washing machine 100. Moreover, the direction perpendicular to both the front-back and vertical directions relative to the washing machine 100 is designated as the width direction of the washing machine 100, i.e., the left-right direction.

[0144] Washing machine body 101 Figure 18 As shown, the washing machine 100 includes an outer casing 200, a top cover 201, a main body cover 202, and a rear cover 203. The outer casing 200 forms the outer shell of the washing machine 100. The outer casing 200 is formed into a generally rectangular box shape, for example, using a steel plate, and has an opening at the top. The water tank 102 is housed inside the washing machine body 101, i.e., inside the outer casing 200. The rotating drum 103 is housed inside the water tank 102. The water tank 102 is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape with an opening at the top.

[0145] like Figure 18 As shown, the top cover 201 has a top cover opening 2011, which is configured as a rectangular ring. The top cover 201 is located on the upper part of the outer casing 200. The main cover 202 is located on the top cover 201, allowing the top cover opening 2011 to open and close. The rear cover 203 is configured as a rectangle that is longer in the left-right direction of the washing machine 100. The rear cover 203 is located at the rear end of the upper part of the top cover 201.

[0146] The washing machine 100 replaces the feeding mechanism 20 with a feeding mechanism 300. The feeding mechanism 300 replaces the feeding container 21 with a receiving section 301 and a feeding container 302. The receiving section 301 is located in the upper rear part of the washing machine body 101 and is inside the top cover 201. The receiving section 301 is formed into a generally rectangular box shape, and one side is, in this case, the front opening.

[0147] The housing 301 has a connection port 303, a water inlet 304, and a housing outlet 305. The connection port 303 connects the interior of the housing 301 to the exterior, in this case, the interior of the outer casing 200. Although not shown in detail, the connection port 303 is located on the rear part of the housing 301, opposite to the opening. The water inlet 304 is formed through the upper part of the housing 301 near the opening. The water inlet 304 functions as an inlet for water to enter the housing 301 into the first water supply path 182. The housing outlet 305 is formed through a portion of the lower part of the housing 301. The housing outlet 305 functions as an outlet for water or treatment agent from the housing 301 in the first water supply path 182.

[0148] The input container 302 is formed as a generally rectangular box with an opening at the top, and is removably housed inside the receiving section 301. Although not shown in detail, the receiving section 301 is provided with guide rails for the input container 302 to slide in a forward and backward direction, thereby enabling the insertion and removal of the input container 302. The input container 302 has a container outlet 3021 formed through a portion, in this case, part of the bottom. The container outlet 3021 functions as the outlet for water or treatment agent in the first water supply path 182.

[0149] The treatment agent canister 31 and the treatment agent box 40 are housed in the input container 302. In this case, the treatment agent canister 31 and the treatment agent box 40 are arranged vertically with the treatment agent canister 31 at the top, as in the embodiments described above. In addition, the position of the front part 331 of the treatment agent canister 31 is set to be further rearward than the position of the front part 411 of the treatment agent box 40.

[0150] The automatic dispensing device 30's dispensing pump 32 is located on the outside of the receiving section 301, in this case, at the rear of the receiving section 301. In other embodiments, the dispensing pump 32 may also be located inside the receiving section 301. Furthermore, in yet another embodiment, the dispensing pump 32 may also be located inside the treatment agent tank 31. The pump connection 321 is connected via a connection port 303 to the tank outlet 36 of the treatment agent tank 31 inside the receiving section 301.

[0151] like Figure 20 As shown, if the input container 302 is pulled out from the containment section 301 in the direction of arrow A, at least a portion of the treatment agent tank 31 and the treatment agent box 40 inside the input container 302 will also be pulled out from the containment section 301. The user can pull out the input container 302 from the containment section 301 to replenish the treatment agent tank 31 or to add treatment agent to the treatment agent box 40.

[0152] If the first water supply valve 185 is opened while the input container 302 is housed in the receiving section 301, water from an external water source is supplied to the receiving section 301 through the first water supply path 182 from the water inlet 304. The water that reaches the receiving section 301 and the input container 21 through the water inlet 304 is injected into the treatment agent cartridge 40 inside the input container 302. Afterward, the water containing the treatment agent enters the downstream of the input mechanism 300 through the siphon 416 of the treatment agent cartridge 40, the container outlet 3021 of the input container 21, and the receiving section outlet 305, and is supplied to the water tank 102.

[0153] In this embodiment, the washing machine 100 replaces the can sensing unit 26 and the box sensing unit 27 of the above embodiments with a can sensing unit 204 and a can sensing unit 205. In this case, both the can sensing unit 204 and the can sensing unit 205 are provided on the outer side of the wall of the receiving part 301, that is, on the side opposite to the input container 302. The can sensing unit 204 is provided on the outer side of the left and right walls of the receiving part 301, and is located at a position corresponding to the sensing part 28 provided on the side surface 332 of the processing agent can 31. The box sensing unit 205 is provided on the outer side of the back wall of the receiving part 301, and is located at a position corresponding to the sensing part 29 provided on the back surface 413 of the processing agent box 40.

[0154] The control device 14 can also perform any of the controls described in the first to third embodiments above. Furthermore, the dispensing mechanism 300 can be configured such that the treatment agent tank 31 has a support portion 39, or it can be configured such that the dispensing container 302 has a holding portion 50. According to this embodiment, the same effects as in the embodiments described above can also be obtained.

[0155] (Other implementation methods)

[0156] In other embodiments, the washing machine 10 of the above embodiments may also be as described above. Figure 21 As shown in the example, a third water supply valve 187 is provided instead of the first water supply valve 185 and the second water supply valve 186. In this case, if the control device 14 opens the third water supply valve 187, the first water supply path 182 and the second water supply path 183 are both supplied with water from an external water source.

[0157] According to this embodiment, the washing machine 10 includes a third water supply valve 187 that connects an external water source to a first water supply path 182 and a second water supply path 183, and a control device 14 that controls the opening and closing of the third water supply valve 187.

[0158] Therefore, since water can flow into the first water supply path 182 and the second water supply path 183 through a single water supply valve, the control performed by the control device 14 does not become overly complex. Furthermore, manufacturing costs can be reduced by decreasing the number of water supply valves. Additionally, during each automatic dispensing operation, the outer periphery of the treatment agent tank 31 can be washed with water flowing through the first water supply path 182, thus keeping the treatment agent tank 31 clean even if treatment agent leaks to the outside.

[0159] exist Figure 21 The example shown is a slanted-axis drum washing machine 10, but the third water supply valve 187 can also be applied in horizontal-axis washing machines and vertical washing machines 100.

[0160] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the treatment agent container 40 is configured to handle liquid treatment agents with a siphon portion 416. However, in other embodiments, it may be configured to have a container outlet (not shown) formed through the bottom portion 414 instead of the siphon portion 416. In this case, the treatment agent container 40 is suitable for dispensing powdered treatment agents. Alternatively, the treatment agent container 40 may be configured to have a container outlet in addition to the siphon portion 416. In this case, the interior of the treatment agent container 40 may be divided into, for example, two sections, left and right, with the siphon portion 416 provided on one side for liquid treatment agents and the container outlet provided on the other side for powdered treatment agents.

[0161] Alternatively, washing machines 10 and 100 can be configured such that, when the user manually adds the treatment agent, the treatment agent is added directly to the inlet container 21 without using the treatment agent dispenser 40. In this case, the same effects as in the embodiments described above can be obtained.

[0162] Alternatively, the above-described implementation methods can be combined.

[0163] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, 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 of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included within the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents.

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising: Water bucket; The container receives a single dose of treatment agent from the user for use in a cleaning operation and supplies the administered treatment agent to the water tank; and An automatic dispensing device automatically adds a predetermined amount of the treatment agent to the water tank. The automatic dispensing device has a treatment agent tank capable of storing the treatment agent in quantities sufficient for multiple cleaning cycles. The infeed container is configured to internally house the treatment agent tank and has an opening that allows the infeeding of the treatment agent used in the single-volume cleaning operation and the infeeding of the treatment agent tank.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a treatment agent container, which is located inside the dispensing container and is capable of storing the treatment agent dispensed by the user. The treatment agent tank is located above the treatment agent box body within the input container.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein, The cleaning operation can be performed when only one of the treatment agent tanks or the treatment agent boxes is housed in the input container.

4. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein, The input container has a water inlet for injecting water into the treatment agent cartridge. The treatment agent tank has a tank opening capable of replenishing the treatment agent. The opening of the tank is located in a position that does not overlap with the water inlet in the vertical direction when the treatment agent tank is placed in the input container.

5. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, have: The first water supply path involves adding the treatment agent, which is stored in the input container and is outside the treatment agent tank, into the water tank. as well as The second water supply route involves adding the treatment agent stored in the treatment agent tank to the water container. The second water supply path does not pass through the input container and is the part outside the treatment agent tank.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, wherein, have: The water supply valve connects an external water source to the first water supply path and the second water supply path; and A control device controls the opening and closing of the water supply valve.

7. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, When the treatment agent tank is contained within the input container, at least a portion of it is separated from the wall of the input container.

8. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, have: The operation unit allows the user to switch between an automatic mode (where the treatment agent in the treatment agent tank is added to the water tank) and a manual mode (where the treatment agent added to the addition container is added to the water tank). The control device, based on the selection operation performed on the operation unit, executes an operation based on either the automatic mode or the manual mode; The can sensing unit senses whether the treatment agent can is contained in the delivery container; and The report processing department reports information related to the washing machine to the user. If the control device does not detect the processing agent tank in the tank sensing unit, it performs automatic mode prohibition processing to prevent the selection of the automatic mode, or performs report processing by the report processing unit to report that the processing agent tank is not installed.

9. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, It also has: The operation unit allows the user to switch between an automatic mode (where the treatment agent in the treatment agent tank is added to the water tank) and a manual mode (where the treatment agent added to the addition container is added to the water tank). The control device, based on a selection operation performed on the operating unit, executes operation based on either the automatic mode or the manual mode; and The can sensing and processing unit senses whether the treatment agent can is contained in the input container. If the tank sensing and judgment processing unit does not sense the processing agent tank, the control device executes a manual mode setting process based on the manual mode operation.

10. The washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, have: The operation unit allows the user to switch between an automatic mode (where the treatment agent in the treatment agent tank is added to the water tank) and a manual mode (where the treatment agent in the treatment agent box is added to the water tank). The control device, based on the selection operation performed on the operation unit, executes an operation based on either the automatic mode or the manual mode; The cartridge sensing unit senses whether the treatment agent cartridge is contained in the dispensing container; and The report processing department reports information related to the washing machine to the user. If the cartridge sensing unit does not detect the treatment cartridge, the control device performs at least one of the following: manual mode prohibition processing, which prevents the selection of the manual mode; or a report processing unit, which reports that the treatment cartridge is not installed.

11. The washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, It also has: The operation unit allows the user to switch between an automatic mode (where the treatment agent in the treatment agent tank is added to the water tank) and a manual mode (where the treatment agent added to the addition container is added to the water tank). The control device, based on the selection operation performed on the operation unit, executes an operation based on either the automatic mode or the manual mode; as well as The cartridge sensing unit senses whether the treatment agent cartridge is contained in the dispensing container. When the cartridge sensing unit does not detect the treatment cartridge, the control device performs automatic mode setting processing based on the automatic mode.

12. The washing machine according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, have: The can sensing unit senses the situation where the treatment agent can is contained in the input container; The cartridge sensing unit senses whether the treatment agent cartridge is contained in the delivery container; The report processing department reports information related to the washing machine to the user; as well as The control device performs a report processing procedure, which involves reporting the meaning of the information by means of the report processing unit, when the can sensing unit does not detect the treatment agent can and the box sensing unit does not detect the treatment agent box.

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