Washing machine

Abstract

A laundry machine includes a motor (6), a washing tub (4) that accommodates laundry (L), a rotary wing (5) that is disposed in the washing tub (4), a detergent storage portion (38), an ultrasonic cleaning unit (13), and a microcomputer (60). The ultrasonic cleaning unit (13) has a tray (48) and an ultrasonic wave generating portion (55) that is disposed at a periphery of the tray (48) and generates ultrasonic waves. The microcomputer (60) executes an ultrasonic cleaning operation that supplies a detergent to the tray (48) and generates ultrasonic waves by the ultrasonic wave generating portion (55), and a washing operation that includes a cleaning process of supplying water to the washing tub (4) and rotating at least the rotary wing (5) by the motor (6). The microcomputer (60) waits for input of a start command of the washing operation according to an end of the ultrasonic cleaning operation, and starts the washing operation according to input of the start command.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a washing machine. Background Technology

[0002] The washing machine described in Patent Document 1 includes: a main body housing a washing tub; a lid disposed on the main body and openable via a folding mechanism; and a local cleaning device and a gear pump fitted into a recess near the front of the lid in the folded state. A cleaning agent container containing cleaning fluid for local cleaning is hung on the folded lid. The local cleaning device has a built-in ultrasonic vibration generator. The ultrasonic vibration generator applies ultrasonic vibration to the cleaning fluid supplied from the cleaning fluid container by the gear pump. When the user inserts the object to be cleaned into the opening formed in the local cleaning device and moves it, the vibrated cleaning fluid is supplied to the object, thereby removing dirt from the object. The local cleaning device is fitted to the lid via a hinge mechanism and is rotatable, so that after using the local cleaning device, the user can rotate the device and store it in the recess of the lid.

[0003] In the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, the ultrasonic cleaning operation using a local cleaning device to clean the items and the washing operation where the items are placed in the washing tub are independent operations. Therefore, even if the user wants to perform both the ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations consecutively, the washing machine must be powered back on after the ultrasonic cleaning operation to begin the washing operation. Furthermore, the user must prepare a cleaning solution container for the ultrasonic cleaning operation. This makes it difficult to improve ease of use.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-178984 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] The present invention was made in view of the following background, and the object is to provide a washing machine that improves ease of use in a structure capable of performing ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] This invention relates to a washing machine, comprising: a drive unit that generates driving force; a washing tub that holds laundry and rotates under the driving force of the drive unit; a rotating vane disposed within the washing tub and rotating under the driving force of the drive unit; a detergent storage unit that stores detergent; an ultrasonic cleaning unit having a tray and an ultrasonic generator disposed around the tray and generating ultrasonic waves; a water supply unit that supplies water to at least the washing tub; a detergent supply unit that supplies detergent from the detergent storage unit to at least the tray; and a control unit that controls the drive unit, the ultrasonic generator, the water supply unit, and the detergent supply unit, wherein the control unit executes: an ultrasonic cleaning operation, in which detergent is supplied to the tray via the detergent supply unit and ultrasonic waves are generated via the ultrasonic generator; and a washing operation, including a cleaning process in which water is supplied to the washing tub via the water supply unit and at least the rotating vane is rotated by the drive unit, wherein the control unit waits for the input of a start command for the washing operation upon the completion of the ultrasonic cleaning operation, and starts the washing operation upon the input of the start command.

[0011] Furthermore, the present invention is characterized in that the control unit replenishes detergent to the tray via the detergent supply unit during the ultrasonic cleaning operation.

[0012] Furthermore, the present invention is characterized in that the washing machine includes: a detergent supply path for supplying detergent from the detergent storage unit to the tray during the ultrasonic cleaning operation, and the control unit performing a maintenance process during the washing operation after the ultrasonic cleaning operation is performed, to allow water to flow through the detergent supply path via the water supply unit.

[0013] Furthermore, the present invention is characterized in that the washing operation includes a standard mode and a special mode with a shorter operating time than the standard mode. In the standard mode washing process, the control unit supplies water to the washing tub through the water supply unit and then rotates the rotating blade through the drive unit. In the special mode washing process, the control unit starts rotating the rotating blade through the drive unit from the middle of the water supply to the washing tub through the water supply unit.

[0014] Furthermore, the present invention is characterized in that the washing machine includes: a lid for opening and closing the inlet / outlet for the laundry to enter and exit the washing tub; and a detection unit for detecting whether the lid has closed the inlet / outlet, wherein the control unit starts the washing operation by taking the detection unit's detection that the lid has closed the inlet / outlet as input to the start command after the ultrasonic cleaning operation has ended.

[0015] Invention Effects

[0016] According to the present invention, the washing machine can perform ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations. During ultrasonic cleaning, ultrasonic waves are generated while detergent is supplied to the tray, allowing the user to ultrasonically clean the laundry by applying the ultrasonic waves to the laundry soaking in detergent within the tray. Furthermore, during the washing operation, the laundry in the tub is cleaned by the rotation of a rotating vane within the water-supplying tub. The control unit in the washing machine, which performs both ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations, waits for a start command for the washing operation upon the completion of the ultrasonic cleaning operation and then starts the washing operation upon receiving the start command. In other words, the control unit executes the ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations in a continuous sequence. Therefore, users who wish to continuously perform ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations do not need to, for example, reconnect the washing machine to power after an ultrasonic cleaning operation to begin the washing operation. Furthermore, the washing machine includes a detergent reservoir for storing detergent to be supplied to the tray and a detergent supply unit for supplying detergent from the detergent reservoir to the tray, eliminating the need for the user to prepare detergent in the tray for ultrasonic cleaning operations. These results in improved ease of use.

[0017] Furthermore, according to the present invention, even if the detergent in the tray decreases during ultrasonic cleaning operation, the detergent supply unit will automatically replenish the detergent to the tray, so the user does not need to replenish the detergent to the tray. Therefore, the ease of use can be further improved.

[0018] Furthermore, according to the present invention, during ultrasonic cleaning operation, detergent from the detergent reservoir flows through the detergent supply path and is supplied to the tray. During the washing cycle following the ultrasonic cleaning operation, the control unit performs maintenance processing, thereby causing water to flow through the detergent supply path. In other words, in the washing machine, automatic maintenance of the detergent supply path is performed during the washing cycle following the ultrasonic cleaning operation, so the user does not need to maintain the detergent supply path. Therefore, ease of use can be further improved.

[0019] Furthermore, according to the present invention, during a washing cycle following ultrasonic cleaning, for example, when it is desired to wash a small amount of laundry, the laundry can be washed in a short time simply by selecting the dedicated washing mode. In particular, during the dedicated mode washing process, the rotation of the rotor begins midway from the water supply to the washing tub, thus effectively cleaning the laundry in the washing tub in a short time.

[0020] Furthermore, according to the present invention, after the ultrasonic cleaning operation is completed, the user can start the washing machine to start the washing operation by simply closing the lid, thus further improving the ease of use. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1This is a schematic longitudinal sectional right view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principles related to the water supply and drainage of a washing machine.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a 3D view of the main parts of a washing machine.

[0024] Figure 4 This is a block diagram representing the electrical structure of a washing machine.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the control panel and display unit in a washing machine.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations performed in a washing machine.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the details of the washing operation.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the details of ultrasonic cleaning operation.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the detergent supply and processing during ultrasonic cleaning operation.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations of the first modified example.

[0031] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the maintenance procedures during the washing operation of the first modified example.

[0032] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations of the second variation.

[0033] Figure 13 This is a table that represents the operating conditions for a standard washing cycle.

[0034] Figure 14 This is a table that represents the operating conditions for the washing operation in a special mode.

[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0036] 1: Washing machine; 4: Washing tub; 5: Rotating blade; 6: Motor; 13: Ultrasonic cleaning unit; 15: Lid; 19: Inlet / outlet; 30: First water supply valve; 35: Treatment agent supply line; 36: Second water supply valve; 37: Pump; 38: Detergent storage unit; 42: Detergent supply valve; 45: Ultrasonic switching valve; 48: Tray; 55: Ultrasonic generator; 60: Microcomputer; 62: Lid switch; L: Laundry. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a schematic longitudinal sectional right view of a washing machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 The direction perpendicular to the paper is called the left-right direction X of washing machine 1. Figure 1 The left-right direction in the middle is called the front-back direction Y of washing machine 1. Figure 1 The vertical direction in the image is called the vertical direction Z of washing machine 1. The horizontal direction X is... Figure 1 The inside of the paper is called the left side X1. Figure 1 The front side of the paper is called the right side X2. In the front-back direction Y, the left side is called the front side Y1, and the right side is called the back side Y2. In the up-down direction Z, the top side is called the top side Z1, and the bottom side is called the bottom side Z2.

[0038] The washing machine 1 includes: a housing 2, forming the outer shell of the washing machine 1; an outer tub 3, housed within the housing 2, capable of holding water; a washing tub 4, housed within the outer tub 3, holding laundry L and capable of holding water; and a rotating vane 5, disposed within the washing tub 4. The washing machine 1 also includes: a motor 6, as an example of a drive unit that generates driving force to rotate the washing tub 4 and the rotating vane 5; and an electric transmission mechanism 7, transmitting the driving force of the motor 6 to the washing tub 4 and the rotating vane 5. The washing machine 1 further includes: a guide shroud 8, disposed within the washing tub 4, for circulating water; and a filter unit 9, attached to the guide shroud 8, for capturing foreign objects from the water. The washing machine 1 also includes: a drain path 10 for draining water stored in the outer tub 3 and the washing tub 4; a water supply unit 11 for supplying water to the washing tub 4; an inlet unit 12 for automatically adding detergent, fabric softener, and other washing agents to the washing tub 4; and an ultrasonic cleaning unit 13 for cleaning laundry L using ultrasonic waves. In this embodiment, the water is tap water, detergent water containing detergent, etc. The washing machine 1 can perform a washing operation to wash the laundry L placed in the washing tub 4 and an ultrasonic cleaning operation to clean the laundry L using ultrasonic waves.

[0039] The housing 2 is made of metal and is box-shaped. The upper portion of the housing 2 that forms the upper surface 2A and the rear surface 2B is, for example, a resin-made upper panel 2C. An inlet / outlet 14 communicating with the inside and outside of the housing 2 is formed on the upper surface 2A. A cylindrical dividing wall 2D is provided on the upper panel 2C, extending downwards to the Z2 side while surrounding the inlet / outlet 14. The interior space of the dividing wall 2D is part of the inlet / outlet 14, and the inner peripheral surface 2E of the dividing wall 2D divides the inlet / outlet 14. An opening 2F related to the ultrasonic cleaning unit 13 is formed in the rear Y2 region of the inner peripheral surface 2E. The opening 2F is a generally rectangular opening that penetrates a portion of the dividing wall 2D in the front-rear direction Y (see also described later). Figure 3 ).

[0040] A cover 15 for opening and closing the inlet / outlet 14 is provided on the upper surface 2A of the housing 2. An operation panel 16 and a display unit 17 are provided in the area surrounding the inlet / outlet 14 on the upper surface 2A. The operation panel 16 and the display unit 17 are integrated, for example, in the form of a liquid crystal operation panel. The user of the washing machine 1 can access the machine by using various buttons 65 (described later) provided on the operation panel 16. Figure 5 The user can freely select the operating conditions of the washing machine 1 or instruct the washing machine 1 to start or stop operation. The display unit 17 displays information related to the operation of the washing machine 1 in a visually accessible manner.

[0041] The outer barrel 3 is made of resin, for example, and is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape. The outer barrel 3 has: a generally cylindrical circumferential wall 3A, arranged along the vertical direction Z; a bottom wall 3B, which blocks the hollow portion of the circumferential wall 3A from the lower side Z2; and an annular wall 3C, which wraps around the upper edge of the circumferential wall 3A and protrudes towards the center of the circumferential wall 3A. An inlet 18 is formed on the inner side of the annular wall 3C, communicating with the hollow portion of the circumferential wall 3A from the upper side Z1. The inlet 18 is positioned opposite and communicates with the inlet 14 of the housing 2 from the lower side Z2. The bottom wall 3B is formed into a generally horizontally extending circular plate, and a through hole 3D is formed at the center of the bottom wall 3B, penetrating the bottom wall 3B in the vertical direction Z.

[0042] The washing tub 4 is made of metal, for example, and is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape that is slightly smaller than the outer tub 3, and can hold the laundry L inside. The washing tub 4 has a generally cylindrical circumferential wall 4A arranged along the vertical direction Z and a bottom wall 4B located at the lower end of the washing tub 4 and blocking the hollow portion of the circumferential wall 4A from the lower side Z2.

[0043] An inlet 19 is formed at the upper end of the washing tub 4, bounded by the upper edge of the inner circumferential surface of the circumferential wall 4A. The inlet 19 exposes the hollow portion of the circumferential wall 4A to the upper side Z1 and is in a state of communication with the inlet 18 of the outer tub 3 from the lower side Z2. The user allows the laundry L to enter or exit the washing tub 4 from the upper side Z1 through the open inlets 14, 18, and 19. The inlets 14, 18, and 19 are opened and closed together by the cover 15.

[0044] The washing tub 4 is coaxially housed within the outer tub 3. The washing tub 4, housed within the outer tub 3, can rotate about a rotation axis J extending vertically in the Z direction, passing through the center of the washing tub 4. The washing machine 1 is a vertical washing machine; in this embodiment, the rotation axis J extends strictly vertically, but it can also extend in an inclined direction relative to the vertical. As an example, the inclined direction is the direction that deviates forward in the Y direction as it tends towards the upper Z1. The rotation axis J also passes through the center of the outer tub 3. The rotation direction of the washing tub 4 is consistent with the circumferential direction P about the rotation axis J. Hereinafter, the radial direction based on the rotation axis J will be referred to as the radial direction R. Within the radial direction R, the side closer to the rotation axis J will be referred to as the radial inner side R1, and the side farther from the rotation axis J will be referred to as the radial outer side R2.

[0045] At least one of the circumferential wall 4A and the bottom wall 4B of the washing tub 4 has a plurality of through holes 4C, through which water in the outer tub 3 can flow between the outer tub 3 and the washing tub 4. As a result, water is also stored in the washing tub 4, and the water level in the outer tub 3 is the same as the water level in the washing tub 4.

[0046] An annular balancer 20 along the circumferential direction P is fitted at the upper end of the inner circumferential surface of the washing tub 4. The balancer 20 is a component that reduces the vibration of the washing tub 4 during rotation, and the cavity 20A inside the balancer 20 contains a liquid such as brine to help reduce vibration.

[0047] The bottom wall 4B of the washing tub 4 is formed as a circular plate extending approximately parallel to the bottom wall 3B of the outer tub 3 at an upper interval Z1. A through hole 4D is formed in the bottom wall 4B at the center position, which is aligned with the rotation axis J, and extends vertically through the bottom wall 4B. A tubular support shaft 21 is provided in the bottom wall 4B, surrounding the through hole 4D and extending downward along the rotation axis J to the lower side Z2. The support shaft 21 is inserted into the through hole 3D of the bottom wall 3B of the outer tub 3, and the lower end of the support shaft 21 is located at a lower side Z2 than the bottom wall 3B.

[0048] The rotating vane 5, also known as a pulsator, is formed as a disc centered on the rotation axis J and is disposed on the bottom wall 4B inside the washing tub 4. Multiple raised portions 5A, bulging upwards to one side Z1 and arranged radially around the rotation axis J, are provided on the upper surface of the rotating vane 5 facing the inlet / outlet 19 of the washing tub 4. Multiple back blades 5B, arranged radially around the rotation axis J, are provided on the lower surface of the rotating vane 5. The lower end of the back blades 5B of the rotating vane 5 disposed within the internal space of the washing tub 4 is referred to as space S. A rotating shaft 22 extends downwards to the side Z2 from its center along the rotation axis J within the rotating vane 5. The rotating shaft 22 is inserted into the hollow portion of the support shaft 21, and the lower end of the rotating shaft 22 is located at a position Z2 lower than the bottom wall 3B of the outer tub 3.

[0049] Motor 6 is an electric motor such as a frequency converter motor. Motor 6 is disposed inside the housing 2 on the lower side Z2 of the outer barrel 3. Motor 6 has an output shaft 23 that protrudes upward Z1 and rotates around the rotation axis J, generating driving force and outputting the driving force from the output shaft 23.

[0050] The transmission mechanism 7 is located between the lower ends of the support shaft 21 and the rotating shaft 22 and the upper end of the output shaft 23 of the motor 6. The transmission mechanism 7 selectively transmits the driving force output from the output shaft 23 of the motor 6 to one or both of the support shaft 21 and the rotating shaft 22. The transmission mechanism 7 can use a known clutch or the like. When the driving force from the motor 6 is transmitted to the support shaft 21, the washing tub 4 receives the driving force from the motor 6 and rotates about the rotation axis J as its center of rotation. When the driving force from the motor 6 is transmitted to the rotating shaft 22, the rotating vane 5 receives the driving force from the motor 6 and rotates about the rotation axis J as its center of rotation. Both the washing tub 4 and the rotating vane 5 can change their rotation direction, thus allowing them to rotate not only in one direction of the circumferential direction P but also in the other direction.

[0051] Multiple guide covers 8 are provided, and the guide covers 8 are distributed circumferentially along the inner circumferential surface of the circumferential wall 4A. Preferably, these guide covers 8 are arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction P. Each guide cover 8 is a groove-shaped structure extending upward from the lower end of the circumferential wall 4A of the washing tub 4 to the upper side Z1, for example, made of resin, and its planar cross-section is formed, for example, an arc shape that convexly curves inward to the radially inward side R1. The guide covers 8 are fixed to the circumferential wall 4A in such a way that they partially cover the circumferential wall 4A from the radially inward side R1. Thus, a circulation flow path 24 extending upward from the lower end of the circumferential wall 4A inside the washing tub 4 is formed between the guide covers 8 and the circumferential wall 4A. That is, the guide covers 8 constitute the circulation flow path 24. Since there are multiple guide covers 8, multiple circulation flow paths 24 are also provided.

[0052] The lower end of the circulation path 24 serves as the inlet 24A of the circulation path 24, connecting radially outward R2 to the space S within the internal space of the washing tub 4 where the back blade 5B of the rotating vane 5 is disposed. That is, the inlet 24A is located on the bottom wall 4B side of the washing tub 4. An opening 8A is formed in the guide cover 8, penetrating radially R. The portion of the circulation path 24 exposed radially inward R1 from the opening 8A is the outlet 24B, which is positioned higher than the inlet 24A and faces into the washing tub 4.

[0053] The filter unit 9 includes: a frame 25 that fits perfectly into the opening 8A of the guide cover 8; and a filter 26 that is fitted into the frame 25. The filter 26 is, for example, a sheet made of mesh or the like, that covers the opening 8A.

[0054] Drainage path 10 is connected from the lower side Z2 to the bottom wall 3B of the outer tub 3. Water inside the outer tub 3 is discharged outside the machine, that is, outside the housing 2, through drainage path 10. A drain valve 27 is provided in the middle of drainage path 10 to start or stop drainage.

[0055] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principles related to the water supply and drainage of the washing machine 1. The water supply unit 11 includes: a water inlet 28 disposed inside the housing 2; a water supply path 29 connecting the water inlet 28 to a faucet outside the housing 2; a first water supply valve 30 disposed inside the housing 2 in the middle of the water supply path 29; and a bath water supply path 31 connected to the water inlet 28 inside the housing 2 (see also...). Figure 1 ).

[0056] The water inlet 28 is, for example, a flattened box-shaped section in the left-right direction X, located on the rear Y2 of the dividing wall 2D of the upper panel 2C and on the upper Z1 of the inlet / outlet 18 of the outer tank 3 (see reference). Figure 1 At the bottom of the water injection section 28, an outlet 28A is formed that faces from the upper side Z1 toward the inlet / outlet 18 and the inlet / outlet 19 of the washing tub 4.

[0057] The first water supply valve 30 is composed of a solenoid valve, etc. When the drain valve 27 is closed, the first water supply valve 30 is opened, and after the tap water from the faucet flows through the water supply circuit 29 and enters the water inlet 28, as... Figure 2 The dashed arrow A1 (also refer to) Figure 1 As shown, water is poured from outlet 28A into washing tub 4, where it is stored in outer tub 3 and washing tub 4. When the first water supply valve 30 is closed, the water supply stops.

[0058] The other end of the bath water supply line 31, opposite to the end connected to the water inlet 28, serves as the suction port 32, which exposes the upper surface of the upper panel 2C, i.e., the surface of the housing 2 (see reference). Figure 1A hose 33 is connected to the suction port 32, with one end immersed in bathwater in the bathtub (not shown). An electric pump 34 is installed in the hose 33. When the pump 34 operates, bathwater is drawn into the hose 33 and sent from the suction port 32 into the bathwater supply line 31. The bathwater flowing through the bathwater supply line 31 is injected into the water inlet 28 and then discharged from the outlet 28A into the washing tub 4. The hose 33 and the pump 34 can be external components, referred to as a bathwater pump. Alternatively, the pump 34 can be installed in the bathwater supply line 31 instead of the hose 33, in which case only the hose 33 is an external component.

[0059] The input unit 12 includes: a treatment agent supply path 35, which branches off from the water supply path 29 inside the housing 2, in the area upstream of the first water supply valve 30 and closer to the faucet, and connects to the water injection section 28; a second water supply valve 36, which is disposed in the treatment agent supply path 35; and a pump 37, which is disposed in the area downstream of the treatment agent supply path 35, in the area downstream of the second water supply valve 36 and closer to the water injection section 28 (see also...). Figure 1 The dispensing unit 12 includes: a detergent storage section 38 for storing liquid detergent; a fabric softener storage section 39 for storing liquid fabric softener, also known as a softener; a detergent outlet 40 extending from the detergent storage section 38 to the treatment agent supply section 35; and a fabric softener outlet 41 extending from the fabric softener storage section 39 to the treatment agent supply section 35. The dispensing unit 12 includes a detergent supply valve 42 and a fabric softener supply valve 43 located in the intermediate region between the second water supply valve 36 and the pump 37 in the treatment agent supply section 35.

[0060] The second water supply valve 36 is composed of a solenoid valve, etc. When the drain valve 27 is closed, the second water supply valve 36 is opened, and tap water from the faucet flows through the treatment agent supply passage 35 and into the water injection section 28. The tap water injected into the water injection section 28 flows out from the discharge port 28A into the washing tub 4, where it is stored in the outer tub 3 and the washing tub 4. When the second water supply valve 36 is closed, the tap water supply stops. The pump 37 is part of the treatment agent supply passage 35 and is configured not to interfere with the flow of water in the treatment agent supply passage 35 when the second water supply valve 36 is open.

[0061] The detergent reservoir 38 and the fabric softener reservoir 39 are containers for holding their respective treatment agents. In this embodiment, the detergent reservoir 38 is located deep to the left of the dividing wall 2D on the upper panel 2C, and the fabric softener reservoir 39 is located deep to the right of the dividing wall 2D. Therefore, when the user opens the cover 15, the detergent reservoir 38 and the fabric softener reservoir 39 are exposed (see reference). Figure 3 A replenishment port 38A is formed on the upper surface of the detergent storage section 38, and a replenishment port 39A is formed on the upper surface of the fabric softener storage section 39 (see reference). Figure 3Therefore, the user can add detergent to the detergent storage section 38 through the replenishment port 38A or add fabric softener to the fabric softener storage section 39 through the replenishment port 39A.

[0062] The detergent outlet 40 extends downward from the lower end of the detergent storage section 38 to the lower side Z2 and is connected to the treatment agent supply section 35 via the detergent supply valve 42. The fabric softener outlet 41 extends downward from the lower end of the fabric softener storage section 39 to the lower side Z2 and is connected to the treatment agent supply section 35 via the fabric softener supply valve 43.

[0063] The detergent supply valve 42 is composed of a solenoid valve, etc. The fabric softener supply valve 43 is also composed of a solenoid valve, etc. When the detergent supply valve 42 is open and the pump 37 is operating, the detergent in the detergent storage section 38 is drawn into the treatment agent supply section 35 through the detergent outlet 40. When the second water supply valve 36 is open and tap water from the faucet flows through the treatment agent supply section 35, the detergent flowing into the treatment agent supply section 35 is injected into the water filling section 28 along with the tap water, and then discharged into the washing tub 4 from the discharge port 28A. When the fabric softener supply valve 43 is open and the pump 37 is operating, the fabric softener in the fabric softener storage section 39 is drawn into the treatment agent supply section 35 through the fabric softener outlet 41. When the second water supply valve 36 is opened and tap water from the faucet flows through the treatment agent supply line 35, the fabric softener flowing out of the treatment agent supply line 35 is injected into the water inlet 28 along with the tap water from the treatment agent supply line 35, and then poured into the washing tub 4 from the outlet 28A.

[0064] Associated with the ultrasonic cleaning unit 13, a recessed receiving chamber 44 is provided on the dividing wall 2D of the upper panel 2C of the housing 2, which is recessed to the rear Y2 side while surrounding the opening 2F (see reference). Figure 1 The ultrasonic cleaning unit 13 includes: an ultrasonic switching valve 45 disposed in the area between the water injection section 28 and the pump 37 in the treatment agent supply line 35; a tank 46; and a first water guide line 47 connecting the ultrasonic switching valve 45 and the tank 46. The ultrasonic cleaning unit 13 also includes: a tray 48 housed in a receiving chamber 44; a second water guide line 49 connecting the tank 46 and the tray 48; and an ultrasonic water supply valve 50 disposed in the second water guide line 49. The ultrasonic cleaning unit 13 further includes: an ultrasonic drainage line 51 connecting the tray 48 and the drainage line 10; an ultrasonic drain valve 52 disposed in the ultrasonic drainage line 51; and an ultrasonic overflow line 53 connecting the tank 46 and the tray 48. It should be noted that... Figure 2 The middle diagram shows the overflow path 54 that allows water exceeding the upper limit level in the washing tub 4 to overflow into the drain path 10. The overflow path 54 drains water from the circumferential wall 3A of the outer tub 3 (see reference). Figure 1It is connected to the drainage channel 10. The ultrasonic cleaning unit 13 also has an ultrasonic generator 55 disposed around the periphery of the tray 48.

[0065] The ultrasonic switching valve 45 is a so-called multi-way valve that allows water flowing through the treatment agent supply line 35 to continue flowing towards the water injection section 28, either towards the treatment agent supply line 35 or towards the first water guide line 47. The water flowing through the first water guide line 47 is stored in the tank 46.

[0066] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the upper panel 2C and its surrounding area in the washing machine 1. The tray 48 has: a recess 48A that opens upward to the Z1 side; and a handle 48B that is positioned forward of the recess 48A at the Y1 side.

[0067] The end of the second water guide 49 opens onto the tray 48, for example, within the receiving chamber 44. The ultrasonic water supply valve 50 is composed of a solenoid valve or the like. When the ultrasonic water supply valve 50 is open, water stored in the tank 46 falls through the second water guide 49 into the recess 48A of the tray 48. The ultrasonic drain path 51 is connected to the bottom of the tray 48. The ultrasonic drain valve 52 is composed of a solenoid valve or the like. When the ultrasonic drain valve 52 is closed and the ultrasonic water supply valve 50 is open, water from the tank 46 accumulates in the recess 48A of the tray 48. When the ultrasonic water supply valve 50 is open in this state, water in the tray 48 flows out through the ultrasonic drain path 51 to the drain path 10 and is discharged outside the machine. Water in the tank 46 exceeding the upper limit water level flows out to the ultrasonic overflow path 53 and is supplied to the tray 48.

[0068] The ultrasonic generator 55 is shaped like a nozzle extending in the front-rear direction Y, with its front end bent downwards at Z2. A vibration amplitude transformer 56 is provided at the end of the ultrasonic generator 55. The ultrasonic generator 55 generates ultrasonic waves when energized by the vibration amplitude transformer 56. It should be noted that a lamp 57 that illuminates when energized can be provided at the end of the ultrasonic generator 55. As an example of such an ultrasonic generator, the ultrasonic generator 55 is positioned on the tray 48 such that at least the vibration amplitude transformer 56 is disposed on the tray 48. The tray 48 and the ultrasonic generator 55 are integrated to form an extraction unit 58.

[0069] The extraction unit 58 is supported by a receiving chamber 44 provided on the upper panel 2C of the housing 2 in a manner that allows it to slide in the forward and backward direction Y. Specifically, the extraction unit 58 can be received in a receiving position within the receiving chamber 44 (see reference). Figure 1 The extraction position (refer to) is where the material is pulled out from the receiving chamber 44 to the front Y1 through the opening 2F of the dividing wall 2D of the upper panel 2C. Figure 3 The tray 48 can slide forward and backward in the Y direction between the two sides. With the cover 15 open, the user can grasp the handle 48B of the tray 48 and pull it out, thereby causing the extraction unit 58 to slide.

[0070] Alternatively, a shutter (not shown) may be provided on the dividing wall 2D to open and close the opening 2F in conjunction with the sliding of the extraction unit 58. This shutter closes the opening 2F when the extraction unit 58 is in the receiving position and opens the opening 2F when the extraction unit 58 begins to slide in the receiving position. In this case, even when the shutter closes the opening 2F, the handle 48B protrudes into the inlet / outlet 14 of the upper panel 2C in a manner that allows the user to grip it. Furthermore, the first water guide 47, the second water guide 49, the ultrasonic drainage channel 51, and the ultrasonic overflow channel 53 each surround the extraction unit 58 in a manner that does not obstruct its sliding.

[0071] Figure 4 This is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of washing machine 1. Washing machine 1 also includes: a microcomputer 60, as an example of a control unit; a water level sensor 61, for detecting the water level in the washing tub 4; a lid switch 62, as an example of a detection unit for detecting whether the lid 15 is closed at inlet / outlet 14, inlet / outlet 18, and inlet / outlet 19; and a buzzer 63. The microcomputer 60 includes a CPU (central processing unit) 60A, a memory 60B, and a timer 60C for timing. The water level sensor 61, lid switch 62, and buzzer 63 can each adopt a known structure. The operation panel 16, display unit 17, water level sensor 61, lid switch 62, and buzzer 63 are each electrically connected to the microcomputer 60. User operations on the operation panel 16 are input into the microcomputer 60. The microcomputer 60 controls the display content of the display unit 17. The detection results of the water level sensor 61 and lid switch 62 are input into the microcomputer 60. The microcomputer 60 controls the operation of the buzzer 63.

[0072] Motor 6, transmission mechanism 7, drain valve 27, first water supply valve 30, second water supply valve 36, pump 37, detergent supply valve 42, fabric softener supply valve 43, ultrasonic switching valve 45, ultrasonic water supply valve 50, ultrasonic drain valve 52, and ultrasonic generator 55 are each electrically connected to microcomputer 60 via, for example, drive circuit 64, and are controlled by microcomputer 60. The aforementioned bath water pump can be electrically connected to microcomputer 60 and controlled by microcomputer 60 via a cable (not shown) consisting of at least one of signal line and power supply line.

[0073] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram showing the operation panel 16 and the display unit 17. The operation panel 16 is arranged side by side with the display unit 17 from the bottom Z2, for example. The operation panel 16 includes a plurality of buttons 65 arranged in the left-right direction X. Each button 65 can be a touch button or a regular button. The buttons 65 related to the following description are: power on button 65A, for turning on the power of the washing machine 1; power off button 65B, for turning off the power of the washing machine 1; start button 65C, for starting the washing operation; mode button 65D, for selecting the washing operation mode; and ultrasonic button 65E, for starting the ultrasonic cleaning operation performed by the ultrasonic cleaning unit 13.

[0074] The display unit 17 includes: a numerical display bar 66, displaying values ​​such as the remaining time of the washing cycle; a mode display bar 67, located to the right of the numerical display bar 66, displaying the selected mode; and a details display bar 68, located to the left of the numerical display bar 66, displaying detailed conditions of the washing cycle. The display content of the display unit 17 will be described below.

[0075] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the ultrasonic cleaning and washing operations performed in washing machine 1. When the user presses the power-on button 65A to turn it on, the microcomputer 60 monitors whether the user has pressed the ultrasonic button 65E to turn it on (step S1). At this time, all valves in washing machine 1, including the first water supply valve 30, are in the closed state.

[0076] When the user selects the washing operation mode by pressing the mode key 65D without activating the ultrasonic button 65E (no in step S1) (yes in step S2), the microcomputer 60 monitors whether the user presses the start key 65C to activate it (step S3). The microcomputer 60 illuminates the mode display bar 67 (see reference). Figure 5 The display area corresponds to the mode selected by the user. When the user puts the laundry L into the washing tub 4 and closes the lid 15, and then presses the start button 65C (yes in step S3), the microcomputer 60 executes the washing cycle (step S4). When the washing cycle ends, the microcomputer 60 automatically cuts off the power to the washing machine 1 (step S5). It should be noted that the user can also cut off the power by pressing the power off button 65B (see...). Figure 5 This causes the microcomputer 60 to cut off the power to the washing machine 1.

[0077] When the user activates the ultrasonic button 65E (Yes in step S1) and then activates the start button 65C (Yes in step S6), the microcomputer 60 executes the ultrasonic cleaning operation (step S7). The microcomputer 60 illuminates the display area 66A in the numerical display bar 66 corresponding to the ultrasonic cleaning operation based on the activation of the ultrasonic button 65E. During the ultrasonic cleaning operation, the display area 66A flashes or displays a message indicating that ultrasonic cleaning is in progress in segment 66B of the numerical display bar 66 (see reference). Figure 5 When the ultrasonic cleaning cycle ends, the microcomputer 60 waits for the washing cycle to begin (step S8). That is, the microcomputer 60 does not automatically cut off the power to the washing machine 1, but waits for the user to press the start button 65C to initiate the washing cycle (step S3). In this state, when the user puts the laundry L into the washing tub 4 and closes the lid 15, and then presses the start button 65C (step S3 is yes), the microcomputer 60 executes the washing cycle (step S4). When the washing cycle ends, the microcomputer 60 automatically cuts off the power to the washing machine 1 (step S5).

[0078] Thus, the microcomputer 60 waits for the input of a start command for the washing cycle upon the completion of the ultrasonic cleaning cycle (step S8), and starts the washing cycle upon the input of the start command (yes in step S3) (step S4). The input of the start command here refers to the user turning on the start button 65C. In this way, the microcomputer 60 executes the ultrasonic cleaning cycle and the washing cycle consecutively. Therefore, a user who wants to continuously execute the ultrasonic cleaning cycle and the washing cycle can do so even without turning on the power button 65A (see step S4) after, for example, the ultrasonic cleaning cycle. Figure 5 The washing machine 1 can be reconnected to power, or the washing cycle can be quickly started by pressing the start button 65C. This improves ease of use. It should be noted that the waiting state of the microcomputer 60 can also be considered the initial state of the washing cycle. Furthermore, the washing cycle mode after the ultrasonic cleaning cycle ends defaults to the standard mode described later, but if the mode for the next washing cycle needs to be changed from the default mode after the ultrasonic cleaning cycle ends, the microcomputer 60 can wait for the start button 65C to be pressed after the mode selection in step S2 (step S3).

[0079] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the details of the washing operation in step S4. The washing operation includes a standard mode and a special mode. Figure 7 This indicates the standard washing mode operation. When the user selects the standard mode by operating the mode key 65D, the microcomputer 60 illuminates the display area 67A in the mode display bar 67 corresponding to the standard mode (see reference). Figure 5As the washing cycle begins, the microcomputer 60 first detects the amount of laundry L in the washing tub 4, i.e., detects the load (step S11). As an example of load detection, the microcomputer 60 detects the load based on fluctuations in the rotational speed of the motor 6 when the washing tub 4 is rotating at a low, stable speed. Based on the previously detected load, the microcomputer 60 determines the water level to be added to the washing tub 4. The relationship between this water level and the load is pre-determined through experiments and stored in the memory 60B of the microcomputer 60. Then, in a standard washing cycle, the microcomputer 60 sequentially executes the washing process, the first rinsing process, the second rinsing process, and the final spin-drying process.

[0080] During the cleaning process, the microcomputer 60 first performs water supply treatment to the washing tub 4 (step S12). Specifically, the microcomputer 60 opens the second water supply valve 36 and controls the ultrasonic switching valve 45, thereby allowing tap water from the faucet to be injected into the water injection section 28 from the treatment agent supply line 35 and discharged into the washing tub 4 from the outlet 28A of the water injection section 28 (see reference). Figure 2 At this time, the microcomputer 60 opens the detergent supply valve 42 and activates the pump 37, thereby supplying a single amount of detergent to the treatment agent supply line 35. As a result, water containing detergent, i.e., detergent water, is poured into the washing tub 4.

[0081] When the water level in the washing tub 4 rises to the level determined in step S11 through this water supply, the microcomputer 60 ends the water supply process and executes the stirring process (step S13). Specifically, the microcomputer 60 controls the transmission mechanism 7 as needed to transmit the driving force of the motor 6 to the rotating blade 5, and then drives the motor 6, thereby causing the rotating blade 5 to rotate continuously. As a result, detergent is easily soluble in water in the washing tub 4, thus generating a high concentration of detergent water. The raised portion 5A of the rotating blade 5 (see reference) Figure 1 The system mechanically removes dirt from the laundry L or chemically breaks down the dirt in the laundry L using detergent components in the detergent water. When the prescribed stirring time has elapsed, the microcomputer 60 terminates the stirring process.

[0082] After the agitation process, the microcomputer 60 then performs the unwinding process (step S14) while the washing tub 4 is filled with water. During the unwinding process, the microcomputer 60 intermittently drives the motor 6 under conditions different from the agitation process, thereby causing the rotating blade 5 to reverse slightly. In this embodiment, as an example, the rotating blade 5 reverses at a higher speed than during the agitation process, alternating between forward and reverse rotation at shorter intervals. As a result, the laundry L soaking in water within the washing tub 4 is unwound by the reversing rotating blade 5. Therefore, the bias of the laundry L is eliminated. The bias of the laundry L refers to the imbalance of the laundry L within the washing tub 4. When the predetermined unwinding time has elapsed, the microcomputer 60 terminates the unwinding process. Thus, the washing process ends.

[0083] The stirring and unstirring processes during the cleaning process are collectively referred to as the cleaning process. In the cleaning process, water in the space S on the bottom wall 4B side of the washing tank 4 is pushed radially outward R2 by the back blade 5B of the high-speed rotating vane 5 and sent into the inlet 24A of each circulation path 24 (see reference). Figure 1 Water flowing upwards in each circulation path 24 to the Z1 side passes through the filter 26 of the filter unit 9 and flows out radially inwards from the outlet 24B of the circulation path 24 to the R1 side (see reference). Figure 1 (Dashed arrow A2). Filter 26 captures foreign objects such as lint from the water passing through it and stores them in the filter unit 9. Water returning to the washing tub 4 from outlet 24B circulates as follows: after being poured onto the laundry L in the washing tub 4 from the top Z1, it flows down into space S and then pours onto the laundry L again through circulation path 24. It should be noted that, alternatively, during the washing process, the microcomputer 60 can rotate not only the rotating blade 5 but also the washing tub 4.

[0084] Next, the microcomputer 60 begins the first rinsing process. First, as a drainage process for the washing tub 4, the drain valve 27 is opened (step S15). As a result, the water in the outer tub 3 and the washing tub 4 is discharged outside the machine through the drain passage 10. Then, the microcomputer 60 performs a spin-drying process for the laundry L while the drain valve 27 is open (step S16). Specifically, first, the microcomputer 60 controls the transmission mechanism 7 to transmit the driving force of the motor 6 to the washing tub 4, causing the washing tub 4 to rotate at high speed. The centrifugal force generated by this high-speed rotation dehydrates the laundry L inside the washing tub 4. The water that seeps out of the laundry L during the spin-drying process is discharged outside the machine through the drain passage 10. In the final stage of the spin-drying process, the microcomputer 60 controls the transmission mechanism 7 to stop transmitting the driving force of the motor 6 to the washing tub 4 and stops the motor 6, thus allowing the washing tub 4 to continue rotating due to inertia.

[0085] After the dehydration process, the microcomputer 60 performs a spray rinsing process (step S17). Specifically, the microcomputer 60 then opens the first water supply valve 30 while the drain valve 27 is open, allowing tap water from the faucet to flow from the water supply line 29 into the water inlet 28 and out of the outlet 28A of the water inlet 28 into the washing tub 4, while simultaneously rotating the washing tub 4 at a low speed. Therefore, during the spray rinsing process, water supply and drainage are performed simultaneously while the washing tub 4 rotates at a low speed, thereby rinsing the laundry L. The first rinsing process ends with the completion of the spray rinsing process.

[0086] Next, the microcomputer 60 begins the second rinsing process, first performing the same dehydration process as in step S16 (step S18). Then, the microcomputer 60 performs water supply to the washing tub 4 (step S19). Specifically, the microcomputer 60 opens the second water supply valve 36 while the drain valve 27 is closed and controls the ultrasonic switching valve 45, thereby allowing tap water from the faucet to flow from the treatment agent supply line 35 into the water injection section 28, and then from the outlet 28A of the water injection section 28 into the washing tub 4 (see reference). Figure 2 At this point, the microcomputer 60 opens the fabric softener supply valve 43 and activates the pump 37, thereby supplying a single amount of fabric softener to the treatment agent supply line 35. As a result, water containing the fabric softener is poured into the washing tub 4 and stored therein.

[0087] When the water level in the washing tub 4 rises to the level determined in step S11, the microcomputer 60 ends the water supply process and executes the same stirring process as in step S13 (step S20). Thus, the laundry L is rinsed inside the washing tub 4, and fabric softener penetrates the laundry L. Furthermore, during the stirring process, as the rotor 5 rotates, the water in the washing tub 4 circulates by being poured onto the laundry L through the circulation path 24. When the predetermined stirring time has elapsed, the microcomputer 60 ends the stirring process.

[0088] After the agitation process, the microcomputer 60 then performs the same unwinding process as step S14 (step S21) while the washing tub 4 is filled with water. This eliminates the bias in the amount of laundry L in the washing tub 4. When the predetermined unwinding time has elapsed, the microcomputer 60 ends the unwinding process. Thus, the second rinsing process ends. The agitation and unwinding processes in the second rinsing process are collectively referred to as the water-filled rinsing process.

[0089] Next, the microcomputer 60 begins the final dehydration process, first opening the drain valve 27 to drain the washing tub 4 (step S22). Then, the microcomputer 60 performs the dehydration process on the laundry L in the same way as in steps S16 and S18 (step S23). However, the rotation conditions of the washing tub 4 in step S23 may differ from those in steps S16 and S18. As an example, the maximum rotation speed of the washing tub 4 in step S23 may be higher than that in steps S16 and S18. With the end of the dehydration process, the final dehydration process ends, and thus the washing operation itself ends.

[0090] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the details of the ultrasonic cleaning operation in step S7. It should be noted that before the ultrasonic cleaning operation begins, the aforementioned extraction unit 58 is first extracted by the user to the extraction position (see...). Figure 3 The microcomputer 60 first performs the first detergent supply process (step S31) as the ultrasonic cleaning operation begins.

[0091] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the detergent supply process. The microcomputer 60 begins operation by opening the detergent supply valve 42 and activating the pump 37 at the start of the detergent supply process (step S301). Then, after a predetermined time Ta seconds (yes in step S302), the microcomputer 60 disconnects and stops the pump 37, closing the detergent supply valve 42 (step S303). As a result, a predetermined amount of detergent in the detergent storage section 38 is drawn into the treatment agent supply path 35 (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0092] Next, the microcomputer 60 opens the second water supply valve 36 to connect it (step S304). As a result, the detergent that was just drawn into the treatment agent supply line 35 flows through the treatment agent supply line 35 along with the tap water, becoming detergent water. At this time, the microcomputer 60 controls the ultrasonic switching valve 45 to direct the detergent water flowing through the treatment agent supply line 35 to the tank 46 (see reference). Figure 2 Then, after a predetermined Tb seconds (yes in step S305), the microcomputer 60 closes the second water supply valve 36 to disconnect it (step S306). As a result, the tank 46 is filled with detergent water to the predetermined level. It should be noted that alternatively, a sensor (not shown) can be installed to detect the water level in the tank 46, and the microcomputer 60 determines the fullness of the tank 46 in step S305 based on the sensor's detection result. When the tank 46 is full and the second water supply valve 36 is disconnected, the detergent supply process ends.

[0093] Back Figure 8The microcomputer 60 sounds the buzzer 63 upon completion of the first detergent supply process, thereby notifying the user that detergent water supply from the tank 46 to the tray 48 has begun (step S32). At this time, the microcomputer 60 opens the ultrasonic water supply valve 50 (see reference). Figure 2 The ultrasonic water supply valve 50 can be omitted, for example, by using a siphon effect to supply detergent water from tank 46 to tray 48 naturally from the middle of the detergent supply process.

[0094] The second water supply valve 36, pump 37, detergent supply valve 42, and ultrasonic switching valve 45, located in the area from the upstream end of the faucet side to the ultrasonic water supply valve 50 in the detergent supply path 35, are an example of a detergent supply unit that supplies detergent from the detergent storage unit 38 to at least the tray 48 (see reference). Figure 2 The ultrasonic water supply valve 50 can also be considered as an example of a detergent supply unit. Furthermore, the treatment agent supply path 35 is an example of a detergent supply path used to supply detergent from the detergent storage section 38 to the tray 48 during ultrasonic cleaning operation. It should be noted that, as described above, the detergent supply unit supplies detergent from the water injection section 28 to the washing tub 4 from the treatment agent supply path 35 during the cleaning process.

[0095] When a predetermined time, for example 16 seconds, has elapsed since the notification began (step S33 is yes), almost all the detergent water in the tank 46 is transferred from the tray 48 to the recess 48A of the tray 48 (see reference). Figure 3 At this point, the microcomputer 60 causes the buzzer 63 to sound, thereby notifying the user of the start of the ultrasonic wave (step S34). The process from steps S32 to S34 is called tray water supply processing.

[0096] The microcomputer 60, which notifies the start of ultrasonic waves, energizes the vibration amplitude transformer 56 of the ultrasonic wave generator 55, thereby generating ultrasonic waves (step S35). In this state, the user immerses the collar and sleeves of a shirt (an example of laundry item L) in detergent water within the recess 48A of the tray 48 and brings it close to the vibration amplitude transformer 56, thereby causing ultrasonic waves to act on localized dirt on the laundry item L (see reference). Figure 3 Therefore, the ultrasonic vibrations generated by the energized amplitude transformer 56 cause bubbles to form in the detergent water immersed in the laundry L, which then burst. The impact of these bursting bubbles ejects dirt from the gaps between the fibers of the laundry L. Even without vigorous rubbing, the user can ultrasonically clean the laundry L by applying the ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic generator 55 to stubborn, localized dirt for a predetermined time.

[0097] The detergent used for ultrasonic cleaning is stored in the detergent reservoir 38 of the washing machine 1 and is automatically added to the tray 48 by a pump 37 or the like, so the user does not need to prepare detergent in the tray 48 for ultrasonic cleaning. This improves ease of use. Furthermore, the detergent used for washing can also be used for ultrasonic cleaning, eliminating the need to prepare multiple detergents for each operation.

[0098] During ultrasonic cleaning operation, after a predetermined time of, for example, one minute has elapsed since the vibration amplitude rod 56 is turned on (step S36 is yes), the detergent water in the tray 48 has significantly decreased due to immersion in the laundry L. Therefore, the microcomputer 60 performs a second detergent supply process (step S37) while the vibration amplitude rod 56 remains on. The content of the second detergent supply process is the same as the first detergent supply process (step S31). Through the second detergent supply process, detergent water is automatically replenished to the tray 48. As a result, the user does not need to replenish detergent to the tray 48, thus further improving ease of use.

[0099] After a predetermined time of, for example, 3 minutes has elapsed since the second detergent supply process (step S38 is yes), the user should have completed the ultrasonic cleaning of the laundry L. Therefore, the microcomputer 60 disconnects the vibration amplitude rod 56 (step S39). Then, the microcomputer 60 sounds the buzzer 63, thereby notifying the user that the ultrasonic cleaning operation has ended (step S40). Thus, the ultrasonic cleaning operation ends. It should be noted that if the user has completed the ultrasonic cleaning before the buzzer 63 sounds, for example, by pressing the start button 65C (see...), the ultrasonic cleaning operation is complete. Figure 5 When the user presses the start button 65C during ultrasonic cleaning, the microcomputer 60 can terminate the ultrasonic cleaning operation in advance. Alternatively, when the user presses the start button 65C during ultrasonic cleaning, the microcomputer 60 can temporarily stop the ultrasonic cleaning operation.

[0100] After completing the ultrasonic cleaning, the user returns the extraction unit 58 to its receiving position (see reference). Figure 1 Accordingly, the microcomputer 60 opens the ultrasonic drain valve 52, discharging the residual detergent water in the tray 48 out of the machine through the drain path 10 (see reference). Figure 2 It should be noted that a drain lever 70 can be provided on tray 48 to open the bottom of tray 48 (see reference). Figure 3 When the user operates the drain rod 70 with the pull-out unit 58 in the pulled-out position, the bottom of the tray 48 opens and the detergent water in the tray 48 flows into the washing tub 4, so the tray 48 can be drained manually.

[0101] Figure 10This is a flowchart illustrating the ultrasonic cleaning and washing operation of the first modified example. In the first modified example, when the user presses the power-on button 65A to turn it on, the microcomputer 60 monitors whether the user has turned on the ultrasonic button 65E (step S51), just as in step S1. When the user turns on the ultrasonic button 65E (yes in step S51) and also turns on the start button 65C (yes in step S52), the microcomputer 60 executes the ultrasonic cleaning operation, just as in step S7 (step S53).

[0102] When the ultrasonic cleaning operation ends, the microcomputer 60 changes the maintenance-related flag of the detergent water supply path 35 that flowed through the ultrasonic cleaning operation from "not needed" to "needed" and temporarily stores it in the memory 60B (step S54). Then, the microcomputer 60 can... Figure 6 The process follows step S8 of the flowchart, waiting for the washing cycle to begin. If the ultrasonic cleaning cycle is not required, the microcomputer 60 can automatically cut off the power to the washing machine 1.

[0103] When the user does not activate the ultrasonic button 65E (no in step S51) but instead selects the washing operation mode using the mode button 65D (yes in step S55) as in step S2, and activates the start button 65C as in step S3 (yes in step S56), the microcomputer 60 confirms the flag temporarily stored in the memory 60B (step S57). If the "need" flag is stored (yes in step S57), a special washing operation is executed (step S58). During the initial washing operation after the ultrasonic cleaning operation, the microcomputer 60 performs the water supply treatment in step S12 and the agitation treatment in step S13 (see...). Figure 7 ) between Figure 11 The maintenance process shown.

[0104] During maintenance, the microcomputer 60 opens the second water supply valve 36 to connect it (step S501). Tap water from the faucet flows through the treatment agent supply path 35 and into the water inlet 28, then is supplied to the washing tub 4 from the outlet 28A of the water inlet 28. As the tap water flows through the treatment agent supply path 35, any detergent residue supplied to the treatment agent supply path 35 during ultrasonic cleaning is washed away with the tap water, thus cleaning the treatment agent supply path 35. This prevents malfunctions caused by detergent residue sticking in the treatment agent supply path 35. It should be noted that the microcomputer 60 can control the ultrasonic switching valve 45 to direct the tap water flowing through the treatment agent supply path 35 towards the tray 48 instead of towards the water inlet 28 (see reference). Figure 2 Therefore, it can also clean boxes 46, trays 48, etc.

[0105] When the second water supply valve 36 is turned on and a predetermined Tc second has elapsed (yes in step S502), the microcomputer 60 closes the second water supply valve 36, thus disconnecting it (step S503). The maintenance process ends. Furthermore, the microcomputer 60 deletes a flag from the memory 60B, or resets "needed" to "not needed." In this way, the washing machine 1 automatically maintains the treatment agent supply path 35 during the wash cycle after the ultrasonic cleaning operation, so the user does not need to perform maintenance on the treatment agent supply path 35. Therefore, ease of use can be further improved. It should be noted that the water supply amount in the preceding water supply process (step S12) can be set slightly less to correspond to the amount of water to be added during the maintenance process.

[0106] On the other hand, if the "need" flag is not present in the aforementioned memory 60B (no in step S57), then a washing operation without maintenance is performed (step S59). The washing operation in step S59 is similar to... Figure 7 The washing operation is the same as described in step S5. Regardless of whether there is maintenance, when the washing operation ends, the microcomputer 60 automatically cuts off the power to the washing machine 1 (step S60), just like in step S5.

[0107] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the ultrasonic cleaning and washing operation of the second variation. The second variation is an implementation of the washing operation assuming the aforementioned dedicated mode. The dedicated mode is a mode that uses a small amount of laundry L, such as laundry L that has been partially cleaned by ultrasonic cleaning, as the washing target. When the user selects the dedicated mode via the mode key 65D (Yes in step S71) and turns on the start key 65C (Yes in step S72), the microcomputer 60 first executes the ultrasonic cleaning operation in the same manner as in step S7 (step S73).

[0108] When the ultrasonic cleaning cycle ends, the microcomputer 60 waits for the washing cycle to begin (step S74). Specifically, the microcomputer 60 waits for the detection result of the lid switch 62, which inputs "the user who put the laundry L into the washing tub 4 after the ultrasonic cleaning cycle closed the lid 15" (step S75). When the user closes the lid 15 (yes in step S75), the microcomputer 60 executes the washing cycle in a special mode (step S76).

[0109] Thus, after the ultrasonic cleaning cycle ends, the microcomputer 60 uses the detection by the lid switch 62 that the lid 15 has closed the inlet / outlet 14, inlet / outlet 18, and inlet / outlet 19 (yes in step S75) as the input of the aforementioned start command, thereby starting the washing cycle (step S76). In this case, after the ultrasonic cleaning cycle ends, the user can start the washing machine 1 by simply closing the lid 15, thus further improving ease of use. When the dedicated mode is selected, the microcomputer 60 illuminates the display area 67B corresponding to the dedicated mode in the mode display bar 67 (refer to...). Figure 5 The microcomputer 60, which had executed the washing operation in the special mode, automatically cut off the power to the washing machine 1 (step S77).

[0110] Figure 13 This is a table showing the operating conditions for the washing operation in the aforementioned standard mode. In the standard mode (refer to...) Figure 7 As an example, in the standard washing mode, the microcomputer 60 performs a 3-minute water supply and a 9-minute washing process. In the first rinse, it performs a 1-minute drain, a 4-minute spin-dry, and a 1-minute spray rinse. After supplying water to the washing tub 4 as described above during the standard washing mode, the microcomputer 60 does not provide additional water during the washing process; instead, it rotates the rotor 5 via the motor 6. Then, in the second rinse, the microcomputer 60 performs a 3-minute spin-dry, a 3-minute water supply, and a 3-minute water-holding rinse. In the final spin-dry, it performs a 1-minute drain and a 6-minute spin-dry. In this case, the standard washing cycle takes 34 minutes.

[0111] Figure 14 This is a table showing the operating conditions for the washing cycle in the special mode. On the other hand, the special mode (see...) Figure 12 The washing operation includes a washing process different from the standard mode, a single rinsing process, and a final spin-drying process. As an example, in the dedicated mode washing process, the microcomputer 60 performs a 2-minute water supply process. Thus, when the water level in the washing tub 4 reaches a predetermined minimum level above zero, the microcomputer 60 performs a 4-minute washing process, during which water is continuously supplied until the water level in the washing tub 4 rises to the predetermined level while the rotor 5 rotates to agitate the laundry L in the washing tub 4. That is, in the dedicated mode washing process, the microcomputer 60 agitates the laundry L while supplying water from the minimum water level. In other words, in the dedicated mode washing process, the microcomputer 60 starts rotating the rotor 5 from the middle of the water supply to the washing tub 4. (Comparison) Figure 13 and Figure 14It can be seen that the 6-minute cleaning process in the special mode is shorter than the 12-minute cleaning process in the standard mode.

[0112] In the dedicated mode rinsing process, the microcomputer 60 performs a 1-minute draining process, a 2-minute spin-drying process, a 2-minute water supply process, and a 3-minute water-holding rinse process. When the water supply process brings the water level in the washing tub 4 to the predetermined minimum level, the microcomputer 60 continues to supply water while rotating the rotor 5 to agitate the laundry L in the washing tub 4 as part of the 3-minute water-holding rinse process. That is, in this water-holding rinse process, the microcomputer 60 agitates the laundry L while supplying water from the minimum water level, similar to the washing process. In the final spin-drying process, the microcomputer 60 performs a 1-minute draining process and a 5-minute spin-drying process. In this case, the total running time for the dedicated mode is 20 minutes. The total running time for the standard mode is 34 minutes, therefore the dedicated mode has a shorter running time than the standard mode.

[0113] During the washing cycle following ultrasonic cleaning, for example, if you want to wash a small amount of laundry L, you can wash the laundry L in a short time by simply selecting the dedicated washing mode. In particular, during the dedicated washing mode, the rotation of the rotor 5 starts midway from the water supply to the washing tub 4, thus effectively cleaning the laundry L in the washing tub 4 in a short time.

[0114] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the technical solution.

[0115] For example, the first water supply valve 30 and the second water supply valve 36 (see reference) Figure 2 The above description is an example of a water supply unit that supplies water to the washing tub 4, but these water supply valves may also exist as a single unit, integrated as a multi-way valve. Furthermore, an ultrasonic switching valve 45 that switches the destination of the water flowing through the treatment agent supply path 35 to the water injection section 28 on the washing tub 4 side and the tank 46 on the tray 48 side can also be considered an example of a water supply unit.

[0116] Furthermore, the aforementioned features can be appropriately combined. For example, in Figure 6 In the flowchart, the microcomputer 60, which is in a waiting state (step S8), can operate based on the detection result of the cover switch 62 without relying on the user's operation of the start button 65C (step S3). Figure 12 Step S75) to start the washing operation (step S4). In addition, the washing operation mode may not be the standard mode but a special mode, but the user needs to select the mode in advance by operating the mode key 65D.

Claims

1. A washing machine, characterized in that, include: The drive unit generates driving force; The washing tub holds the laundry and rotates under the driving force of the drive unit. A rotating blade is disposed inside the washing tub and rotates by the driving force of the drive unit. Detergent storage section, for storing detergents; An ultrasonic cleaning unit has a tray and an ultrasonic generator disposed around the periphery of the tray and generating ultrasonic waves. The water supply unit supplies water to at least the washing tub; The detergent supply unit supplies detergent from the detergent storage unit to the tray at least; and The control unit controls the drive unit, the ultrasonic generator, the water supply unit, and the detergent supply unit. The control unit performs the following: ultrasonic cleaning operation, supplying detergent to the tray through the detergent supply unit and generating ultrasonic waves through the ultrasonic generator unit; The washing operation includes a washing process in which water is supplied to the washing tub via the water supply unit and at least the rotating blades are rotated via the drive unit. The control unit waits for the input of the start command for the washing operation after the ultrasonic cleaning operation ends, and starts the washing operation according to the input of the start command. Also includes: The lid is used to open and close the inlet / outlet for the laundry to enter and exit the washing tub; as well as The detection unit checks whether the cover closes the inlet / outlet. The control unit starts the washing operation after the ultrasonic cleaning operation ends, using the detection unit's detection that the cover has closed the inlet / outlet as input for the start command.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: A housing, which forms the outer shell of the washing machine, wherein a receiving chamber is formed on the top panel of the housing; The tray and the ultrasonic generator form an extraction unit. The extraction unit is slidably disposed in the receiving chamber. When the extraction unit is received in the receiving chamber, it is in the receiving position. When the extraction unit is pulled out of the receiving chamber, it is in the extraction position. Before the ultrasonic cleaning operation begins, the extraction unit is first extracted to the extraction position.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit replenishes detergent to the tray via the detergent supply unit during the ultrasonic cleaning operation.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: A detergent supply path is provided for supplying detergent from the detergent storage section to the tray during the ultrasonic cleaning operation. The control unit performs maintenance procedures during the washing operation following the ultrasonic cleaning operation, by having water flow through the detergent supply path via the water supply unit.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, include: Fabric softener storage section, for storing fabric softeners; The fabric softener supply unit supplies the fabric softener from the fabric softener storage unit to the washing tub; A fabric softener supply path is provided for supplying fabric softener from the fabric softener storage section to the washing tub during the washing operation. The detergent supply path and the fabric softener supply path are the same passage.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that, include: An ultrasonic switching valve is provided on the detergent supply line and located downstream of the detergent supply section and the fabric softener supply section. The ultrasonic switching valve is used to allow the liquid flowing through the detergent supply line to continue flowing to the tray or the washing tub.

7. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The washing operation includes a standard mode and a special mode with a shorter operating time than the standard mode. During the standard washing process, the control unit supplies water to the washing tub via the water supply unit and then rotates the rotating blades via the drive unit. The control unit, during the washing process in the dedicated mode, starts rotating the rotary blade via the drive unit from the middle of the water supply to the washing tub via the water supply unit.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, include: The default washing operation mode after the ultrasonic cleaning cycle ends is the standard mode.

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