Washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine which makes it possible to receive a setting on the type of a liquid agent with an operation part having a simple configuration.SOLUTION: A washing machine includes: a washing tub for accommodating laundry; a first tank for accommodating a first liquid agent; a first automatic injection device connected to the first tank, for injecting the first liquid agent into the washing tub; an operation part for receiving a user's operation; and a control part. The operation part includes an operation button constituted by a physical button. In response to reception of the operation with the operation button, the control part can execute: an injection setting mode in which ON / OFF switching of automatic injection by the first automatic injection device can be received; and a liquid agent type setting mode in which a setting on the type of the first liquid agent accommodated in the first tank can be received.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to washing machines. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine equipped with an automatic liquid agent dispenser.

[0003] The washing machine described in Patent Document 1 includes a washing tub, a number of tanks for containing liquid agents, an automatic dispensing device, a touch panel display unit that accepts touch operations from a user, and a controller, and the controller displays buttons on the touch panel display unit for setting up automatic dispensing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-42265 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the washing machine described in Patent Document 1 does not disclose that settings regarding the type of liquid are accepted by physical buttons. On the other hand, if settings regarding the type of liquid are accepted by physical buttons, the number of physical buttons required will increase, and the configuration of the operation unit may become complicated.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above-mentioned problem and to make it possible to accept settings regarding the type of liquid agent using an operation unit having a simple configuration. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing tub for storing laundry, a first tank for storing a first liquid agent, a first automatic dispensing device connected to the first tank for dispensing the first liquid agent into the washing tub, an operation unit for accepting user operations, and a control unit. The operation unit has an operation button constituted by a physical button, and the control unit is capable of executing a dispensing setting mode capable of accepting switching ON / OFF of automatic dispensing by the first automatic dispensing device in response to accepting an operation via the operation button, and a liquid agent type setting mode capable of accepting the setting of the type of the first liquid agent stored in the first tank. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine can be provided that allows settings regarding the type of liquid to be accepted using an operation unit having a simple configuration. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] Schematic cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] Perspective view of the automatic insertion unit [Diagram 3] Schematic diagram of the automatic feeding unit [Figure 4] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 5A] A schematic diagram showing the state change of the display unit according to the operation of the operation unit. [Figure 5B] A schematic diagram showing the state change of the display unit according to the operation of the operation unit. [Figure 6A] A schematic diagram showing the state change of the display unit according to the operation of the operation unit. [Figure 6B] A schematic diagram showing the state change of the display unit according to the operation of the operation unit. [Figure 7A] A schematic diagram showing the state change of the display unit according to the operation of the operation unit. [Figure 7B] A schematic diagram showing the state change of the display unit according to the operation of the operation unit. [Figure 7C] A schematic diagram showing the state change of the display unit according to the operation of the operation unit. [Figure 8] A flow chart showing the operation of setting the type of liquid, the reference amount, and the input setting. [Figure 9] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit according to embodiment 2. [Figure 10A] Schematic diagram of an operation and display unit according to embodiment 3. [Figure 10B] A schematic diagram showing the state change of the display unit according to the operation of the operation unit. [Figure 10C] A schematic diagram showing the state change of the display unit according to the operation of the operation unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] (Embodiment 1) A washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0011] [Overall configuration] Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 1, the washing machine 1 includes a housing 2, an outer tub 3, a washing tub 4, a drive unit 5, an automatic dosing unit 6, a connection flow path 8, a water supply device 10, a drain valve 11, a control unit 12, a storage unit 13, an operation display unit 14, and a start button 18.

[0012] <Case> The housing 2 is a member that forms the external appearance of the washing machine 1. An opening 20 and a door 21 that covers the opening 20 and can be opened and closed freely are provided on the front surface of the housing 2.

[0013] <Outer tank> The outer tub 3 is provided inside the housing 2 and is a roughly cylindrical member having the function of storing wash water. The outer tub 3 may be referred to as a water tub. The outer tub 3 has a tubular portion 34 and a bottom portion 36 that closes one end of the tubular portion 34. The central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 passes through the center of the bottom portion 36. The central axis V0 is inclined with respect to the horizontal. The outer tub 3 has an opening 31 at a position facing the opening 20 of the housing 2. The edge of the opening 31 is connected to the opening 20 of the housing 2 by a bellows 32 in a sealed manner. The outer tub 3 is provided with openings 33 and 35 for passing water. The opening 33 is an opening connected to the connection flow path 8, and the opening 35 is a drain port for draining the water in the outer tub 3 to the outside.

[0014] <Washing tub> The washing tub 4 is a generally cylindrical member that is rotatably provided around a central axis V0 inside the outer tub 3 and that contains laundry 15 such as clothes. The washing tub 4 may also be called an inner tub, a storage tub, or a drum. The washing tub 4 is formed with a large number of through holes 40. The through holes 40 communicate the washing tub 4 and the outer tub 3, allowing the movement of washing water between the washing tub 4 and the outer tub 3. The washing tub 4 has an opening 41 at a position facing the opening 20 of the housing 2 and the opening 31 of the outer tub 3. When the user of the washing machine 1 opens the door 21, the user can put laundry 15 into the washing tub 4 through the openings 20, 31, and 41.

[0015] <Drive unit> The driving unit 5 is a member that rotates the washing tub 4 around the central axis V0. The driving unit 5 has, for example, a motor that rotates the washing tub 4.

[0016] <Automatic insertion unit> The automatic dosing unit 6 is a device that automatically supplies a predetermined amount of liquid from a tank that stores enough liquid for multiple washes to the outer tub 3. The predetermined amount of liquid is, for example, an appropriate amount and type of liquid determined by the control unit 12 according to the contents of the washing course and the amount of laundry 15. The automatic dosing unit 6 is connected to the outer tub 3 via a connecting flow path 8.

[0017] As used herein, liquids are liquids used to treat laundry 15, such as clothes and towels, and include detergents, fabric softeners, mild detergents, bleaches, disinfectants, deodorizers, fragrances, laundry starches, and other laundry auxiliaries.

[0018] The automatic dispensing unit 6 includes a case 61, tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C (tanks 62B and 62C are not shown), pump mechanisms 63A, 63B, and 63C (pump mechanisms 63B and 63C are not shown), and a liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0019] Tanks 62A and 62B contain a predetermined type of liquid agent. Specifically, tank 62A contains a detergent, and tank 62B contains a fabric softener. Tank 62C contains a type of liquid agent arbitrarily selected by the user. In the first embodiment, the user selects bleach or delicate detergent and places it in tank 62C. Note that tank 62A and / or tank 62B may also contain a type of liquid agent arbitrarily selected by the user.

[0020] <Connection flow path> The connection flow path 8 is a flow path for connecting the automatic dosing unit 6 and the outer tub 3. The connection flow path 8 extends downward from the automatic dosing unit 6 to the opening 33 of the outer tub 3.

[0021] <Water supply device> The water supply device 10 is a device that supplies water to the outer tub 3 via the automatic dosing unit 6. The water supply device 10 has, for example, a water supply valve connected to a water mains. The water supply device 10 is provided on the upper part of the housing 2.

[0022] <Drain valve> The drain valve 11 is configured to be openable and closable, and when opened, allows the water stored in the outer tub 3 to be drained through an opening 35 of the outer tub 3. The drain valve 11 is provided in the lower part of the housing 2.

[0023] <Operation display section> The operation display unit 14 has an operation unit operated by the user and a display unit that displays various information such as images and text to the user. The operation display unit 14 is provided on the front surface of the housing 2 at a position where the user can operate and view it.

[0024] The operation display unit 14 receives settings related to the liquid agents contained in the tanks 62A to 62C in response to an operation of the operation unit by a user. In other words, settings related to the liquid agents contained in the tanks 62A to 62C are input to the operation display unit 14 by the user.

[0025] Operation display unit 14 accepts the setting of the type of liquid agent contained in tank 62C (hereinafter, liquid agent type setting). On the other hand, since the types of liquid agents contained in tanks 62A and 62B are fixed, operation display unit 14 does not accept the setting of the type of liquid agent for tanks 62A and 62B.

[0026] In the first embodiment, the liquid type setting of the tank 62C is a liquid type selected between "bleach" and "delicates detergent." "Delicates detergent" may also be called "neutral detergent."

[0027] The operation display unit 14 further receives a reference amount setting related to the amount of the liquid agent to be added per unit water amount contained in the tanks 62A to 62C. In the first embodiment, the reference amount setting is a setting of a numerical value of the amount of the liquid agent to be added per a predetermined water amount (e.g., 30 L).

[0028] The operation display unit 14 accepts a supply setting related to automatic supply of the liquid contained in the tanks 62A to 62C. The supply setting includes an automatic supply setting related to whether or not the liquid is automatically supplied, and a supply adjustment setting related to a supply adjustment amount corresponding to the supply amount of the liquid. The supply setting can be switched between "more", "standard", "less", and "none".

[0029] The automatic dispensing setting can be switched between an "ON" setting in which the liquid agent is automatically dispensed from the tank during an operation course, and an "OFF" setting in which the liquid agent is not automatically dispensed, for each of the tanks 62A to 62C.

[0030] The input adjustment setting can be switched between "more", "standard", and "less". In the first embodiment, the input adjustment setting is a multiple by which a reference amount is multiplied. Specifically, the input adjustment settings are "0.5x", "1x", and "2x". On the operation display unit 14, "0.5x" is displayed as "less", "1x" as "standard", and "2x" as "more". The input adjustment setting may be another multiple, and a multiple other than "1x" may be displayed as "standard". "More" and "less" may be more (e.g., 2x) and less (e.g., 0.5x) than "standard", respectively.

[0031] As will be described later, when the dispensing setting is accepted as "more," "standard," or "less," the automatic dispensing setting is accepted as "ON." On the other hand, when the dispensing setting is accepted as "none," the automatic dispensing setting is accepted as "OFF." When the automatic dispensing setting is "OFF," liquid is not automatically dispensed in the operating course being executed. In the first embodiment, when the dispensing setting is accepted as "none," it refers to a case where none of the dispensing settings are set as "more," "standard," or "less."

[0032] In other words, in the first embodiment, the operation display unit 14 accepts the automatic input setting together with the input adjustment setting as the input setting. Specifically, the control unit 12 accepts the "ON" setting as the automatic input setting when the operation display unit 14 accepts the input adjustment setting.

[0033] <Control unit> Control unit 12 is a controller that controls washing machine 1. Control unit 12 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or MPU that executes a program to realize a predetermined function. Control unit 12 calls up and executes a program stored in storage unit 13 to realize various controls in washing machine 1. Control unit 12 is not limited to a controller that realizes a predetermined function through the cooperation of hardware and software, and may be a hardware circuit designed specifically to realize a predetermined function.

[0034] The control unit 12 has an operation display unit 14 capable of executing a liquid type setting mode capable of accepting a liquid type setting, a reference amount setting mode capable of accepting a reference amount setting, and an input setting mode capable of accepting an input setting.

[0035] <Storage section> The storage unit 13 is a recording medium for recording various information and control programs. The storage unit 13 is realized by, for example, a flash memory, a solid state device (SSD), a hard disk, another storage device, or an appropriate combination of these.

[0036] The memory unit 13 stores the liquid type setting, the reference amount setting, and the input setting received by the operation display unit 14. Therefore, once the liquid type setting, the reference amount setting, or the input setting is performed, the user can omit the setting each time an operating course is executed. On the other hand, when the liquid type setting, the reference amount setting, or the input setting is changed, the memory unit 13 stores the changed setting instead of the setting before the change. In other words, the memory unit 13 temporarily stores the liquid type setting, the reference amount setting, and the input setting received by the operation display unit 14 until they are updated.

[0037] The memory unit 13 does not have to store the input setting. For example, after the operation course is executed, the control unit 12 may delete the input setting from the memory unit 13. After the operation course is executed, the control unit 12 may store OFF as the automatic input setting in the memory unit 13, or may store "standard" as the input adjustment setting.

[0038] <Start button> The start button 18 is a button that accepts the start of an operating course. In the first embodiment, the start button 18 is a physical button. When the start button 18 is pressed, the control unit 12 starts the operating course.

[0039] Next, a more detailed structure of the automatic feeding unit 6 will be described. Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the automatic feeding unit 6. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of the automatic feeding unit 6.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 2, the automatic dispensing unit 6 has a case 61, tanks 62A to 62C, pump mechanisms 63A to 63C, and a liquid agent discharge flow path 64.

[0041] Case 61 is a container with an open top so as to accommodate three tanks 62A to 62C. A liquid agent discharge flow path 64 and water supply device 10 are connected to a rear surface 57 of case 61. Pump mechanisms 63A, 63B, and 63C are connected to tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, respectively, via rear surface 57.

[0042] As shown in Fig. 3, case 61 has flow paths through which water or liquid agent flows below tanks 62A to 62C. Although one tank 62A and one pump mechanism 63A are shown in Fig. 3, the other tanks 62B to 62C and pump mechanisms 63B to 63C have the same configuration.

[0043] Returning to FIG. 2, the tanks 62A to 62C are containers for storing liquid agents, and are housed in the case 61 lined up on the outer side K1 (horizontal direction away from the central axis V0 in FIG. 1). The depths and volumes of the three tanks 62C, 62B, and 62A increase in order toward the outer side K1. Therefore, the volume of the tank 62C, which can store multiple types of liquid agents, is smaller than the volumes of the other tanks 62A to 62B. The tanks 62A to 62C are removable from the case 61 so that the remaining amount of liquid agent can be replenished when it becomes low.

[0044] The pump mechanisms 63A, 63B, and 63C are devices that suck up a predetermined amount of liquid from the tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, respectively, and discharge the liquid into the liquid discharge flow path 64 to supply the liquid to the outer bath 3.

[0045] A liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is connected below the pump mechanisms 63A to 63C. The liquid agent discharge flow path 64 is a flow path member having an inlet and an outlet connected to the case 61. The liquid agent discharge flow path 64 returns water flowing in from the case 61 to the case 61 by merging it with the liquid agent discharged from the pump mechanisms 63A to 63C.

[0046] Next, the flow of water and liquid agent in the automatic dispensing unit 6 will be described.

[0047] First, the supply of water will be described. Water supplied from the water supply device 10 falls from the top of the case 61 toward the bottom of the case 61. As shown in Fig. 3, the water that flows into the case 61 passes under the tanks 62A to 62C along the bottom of the case 61 and is fed into the outer tank 3 via the connection flow path 8 (Fig. 2). A part of the water that flows into the case 61 flows from the case 61 into the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, flows through the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, flows into the case 61 again, and is fed into the outer tank 3 via the connection flow path 8.

[0048] Next, the flow of the liquid agent will be described. The liquid agent is sucked out laterally from the tank 62A by the pump mechanism 63A, and discharged downward toward the liquid agent discharge flow path 64. In the liquid agent discharge flow path 64, the liquid agent merges with the water that has flowed into the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 from the case 61. The liquid agent flows through the liquid agent discharge flow path 64 together with the water, and flows into the case 61. Thereafter, the liquid agent is supplied to the outer tank 3 together with the water via the connection flow path 8. That is, the liquid agent is supplied to the outer tank 3 by the flow of water generated when water is supplied.

[0049] Next, a more detailed description will be given of the structure of the operation and display unit 14. FIG.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 4, the operation display unit 14 includes an operation unit 16 and a display unit 17.

[0051] The operation unit 16 has a plurality of operation buttons 16A to 16E. The operation buttons 16A to 16C correspond to the tanks 62A to 62C, respectively. The operation buttons 16D to 16E are buttons for the user to change the respective settings in a mode in which the liquid agent type setting or the reference amount setting can be accepted. The operation buttons 16D to 16E may be buttons used when selecting an operation course.

[0052] The operation buttons 16A to 16E are physical buttons. Unlike virtual buttons displayed on a touch panel or the like, the operation buttons 16A to 16E have a physical structure that can be pressed. The operation buttons 16A to 16E may be called "operation switches."

[0053] By operating the operation button 16A, the control unit 12 switches the operation display unit 14 between a reference amount setting mode and an input setting mode for the tank 62A. By operating the operation button 16B, the control unit 12 switches the operation display unit 14 between a reference amount setting mode and an input setting mode for the tank 62B. By operating the operation button 16C, the control unit 12 switches the operation display unit 14 between a liquid agent type setting mode, a reference amount setting mode, and an input setting mode for the tank 62C. By consolidating the transition of the setting modes into the operation buttons 16A to 16C, the operation method is easy for the user to understand, and the usability of the washing machine 1 is improved. In particular, by consolidating the transitions between the liquid agent type setting mode, the reference amount setting mode, and the input setting mode into the operation button 16C for the tank 62C, the operation method is easy for the user to understand even when the user changes the type of liquid agent, and the usability of the washing machine 1 can be improved.

[0054] In the first embodiment, the operation buttons 16A to 16C have tank numbers (tank 1 to tank 3) for identifying the corresponding tanks, but may have other identification information for identifying the tanks. Specifically, the tank 62A is referred to as "tank 1," the tank 62B is referred to as "tank 2," and the tank 62C is referred to as "tank 3."

[0055] The operation buttons 16D to 16E are operated by the user to change the liquid type setting in a liquid type setting mode for the tank 62C. The operation buttons 16D to 16E are operated to increase or decrease the reference amount in a reference amount setting mode for the tanks 62A to 62C. Specifically, the operation button 16D is a button for increasing the reference amount, and the operation button 16E is a button for decreasing the reference amount. By making it possible to change the liquid type setting and the reference amount setting by the operation buttons 16D and 16E, it becomes easy for the user to change the settings.

[0056] On the other hand, in the supply setting mode for the tanks 62A to 62C, the user operates the operation buttons 16A to 16C to change the supply settings for the tanks 62A to 62C, respectively.

[0057] Display unit 17 has a plurality of input displays 17A-17C, a liquid display 17D, and a reference amount display 17E. Liquid display 17D displays the liquid type setting of the liquid stored in tank 62C. Reference amount display 17E displays the reference amount setting of the liquid stored in tanks 62A-62C. Input displays 17A-17C correspond to tanks 62A-62C, respectively, and display the input settings of the liquid stored in the corresponding tanks.

[0058] The liquid agent display 17D has a display capable of displaying the liquid agent type setting of the tank 62C. The liquid agent display 17D may have a 7-segment display or may have an LCD display. The liquid agent display 17D displays text such as "bleach" and "delicates detergent", for example. When the operation buttons 16D to 16E are operated, the input liquid agent type setting is changed, and the liquid agent type setting displayed on the liquid agent display 17D is also changed.

[0059] Reference amount display 17E has a display capable of displaying the reference amount setting of tanks 62A-62C. Reference amount display 17E may have a 7-segment display or may have an LCD display. Reference amount display 17E displays, for example, a numerical value of the reference amount. When operation buttons 16D-16E are operated, the input reference amount setting is changed, and the reference amount setting displayed on reference amount display 17E increases or decreases accordingly. Note that liquid formulation display 17D and reference amount display 17E may be configured integrally.

[0060] The input indicators 17A-17C each have an indicator showing the input adjustment setting options, and a lighting unit (not shown) for independently turning on / off each indicator. In the first embodiment, the indicator of each of the input indicators 17A-17C includes a character display of three input adjustment setting options, "More", "Standard", and "Less". The lighting unit is an LED.

[0061] When the operation buttons 16A to 16C are operated, the input settings including the automatic input setting and the input adjustment setting are changed, and the lighting state of the input indicators 17A to 17C is also changed accordingly.

[0062] Here, how the input displays 17A to 17C display both the automatic input setting and the input adjustment setting will be described.

[0063] In the first embodiment, in order to input the "ON" setting as the automatic feed setting, it is required that the feed adjustment setting has been input. To input the feed adjustment setting, the user presses the corresponding operation button 16A-16C once or multiple times until the setting that the user wants to input is lit in the feed indicators 17A-17C. In response to the user's operation, the feed indicators 17A-17C light up one of the feed adjustment setting options to indicate that the automatic feed setting is set to "ON" together with the feed adjustment setting.

[0064] On the other hand, in order to input the "OFF" setting as the automatic feed setting, it is required that the feed adjustment setting has not been input. The user presses the corresponding operation button 16A-16C once or multiple times until all feed adjustment settings are turned off in the feed displays 17A-17C. In response to the user's operation, the feed displays 17A-17C turn off all options and display that the feed adjustment setting has not been set and that the automatic feed setting is set to "OFF".

[0065] A more detailed description will be given of changes in display section 17 caused by operations on operation section 16. Figures 5A to 7C are schematic diagrams showing changes in the state of display section 17 caused by operations on operation section 16.

[0066] First, the state change of the display unit 17 in the liquid type setting will be described. As shown in FIG. 5A, in the liquid type setting mode for the tank 62C, a case will be considered in which "delicates detergent" is set as the liquid type setting for the tank 62C. In this case, an arrow is displayed next to the text display of "delicates detergent" in the liquid display 17D. Note that when the washing machine 1 is shipped from the factory, the liquid type setting is set to "delicates detergent."

[0067] When operation button 16E is pressed while an arrow is displayed next to "delicates detergent," the arrow disappears from beside "delicates detergent" and an arrow appears next to the text display of "bleach," as shown in FIG. 5B. The arrow displayed next to "bleach" indicates that "bleach" has been selected as the liquid agent type setting for tank 62C. The user can change the liquid agent type setting from the currently selected liquid agent type setting to another liquid agent type setting by operating operation buttons 16D and 16E.

[0068] Here, an example in which an arrow is displayed next to the selected liquid type setting in the liquid display 17D has been described, but is not limited to this. Other display modes may be adopted as long as they can be distinguished from non-selected liquid type settings. For example, in the liquid display 17D, the text display of the selected liquid type setting may be lit or flashing, the background of the text display may be displayed in black, and non-selected liquid type settings may be grayed out, turned off, or hidden.

[0069] Next, a state change of the display unit 17 in the reference amount setting will be described. As shown in Fig. 6A, a case will be considered in which "20mL" is set as the reference amount setting of the tank 62C in the reference amount setting mode for the tank 62C. In this case, "20mL" is displayed on the reference amount display 17E.

[0070] When operation button 16D is pressed while "20 mL" is displayed, "21 mL" is displayed in reference amount display 17E, and "21 mL" is set as the reference amount setting of tank 62C, as shown in FIG. 6B. Then, when operation button 16E is pressed, "20 mL" is displayed again in reference amount display 17E, and "20 mL" is set as the reference amount setting of tank 62C. In the first embodiment, pressing operation button 16D once increases the reference amount in 1 mL increments, and pressing operation button 16E once decreases the reference amount in 1 mL increments. On the other hand, the reference amount may be increased or decreased in other increments, such as 5 mL increments or 10 mL increments, by a single operation of operation buttons 16D and 16E.

[0071] Next, the state change of the display unit 17 during the supply setting will be described. As shown in Fig. 7A, a case will be considered in which the supply adjustment setting for the tank 62C is set to "more" in the supply setting mode for the tank 62C. In this case, "more" is lit in the supply display 17C. In addition, since the supply adjustment setting is set, the automatic supply setting is set to "ON".

[0072] When operation button 16C is pressed while "More" is lit, "More" turns off in input display 17C, and "Standard" in the other text display turns on, as shown in Fig. 7B. The fact that "Standard" is lit indicates that "Standard" has been selected as the input adjustment setting, and the "ON" setting has been selected as the automatic input setting for tank 62C.

[0073] When operation button 16C is pressed while "Standard" is lit, "Standard" turns off in input display 17C, and another character display, "Less" turns on, as shown in Fig. 7C. The fact that "Less" is lit indicates that "Less" has been selected as the input adjustment setting, and the "ON" setting has been selected as the automatic input setting for tank 62C.

[0074] When the operation button 16C is pressed while "LOW" is lit, all the characters displayed on the input indicator 17C are turned off, as shown in Fig. 4. The fact that all the input indicators 17C are turned off indicates that the input setting for the tank 62C is set to "OFF", that is, the automatic input setting for the tank 62C is switched to the "OFF" setting.

[0075] By making the operation button 16C for changing the injection setting different from the operation buttons 16D, 16E for changing the liquid type setting and the reference amount setting, the user can recognize whether they are inputting the injection setting or the liquid type setting and the reference amount setting.

[0076] [Operation] Next, the operations of setting the type of liquid, setting the reference amount, and setting the dosage using the operation and display unit 14 will be described.

[0077] The user performs the liquid type setting, the reference amount setting, and the supply setting when changing the type of liquid contained in the tank 62C or when putting liquid into the tank 62C for the first time after purchasing the washing machine 1. The user may also perform the supply setting independently before any operation course.

[0078] The user may execute the liquid type setting, the reference amount setting, and the injection setting before or after pouring the liquid into the tank 62C.

[0079] Fig. 8 is a flow chart showing the operations of setting the type of liquid agent, setting the reference amount, and setting the injection amount.As shown in Fig. 8, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the operation button 16C has been pressed (S30).

[0080] If the operation button 16C has not been pressed (No in S30), the control unit 12 returns to before step S30.

[0081] When the operation button 16C is pressed and held (long press in S30), the control unit 12 executes a liquid type setting mode capable of receiving a setting of the liquid type of the tank 62C (S32). Specifically, the liquid type setting mode is a mode of the control unit 12 capable of changing the liquid type setting of the tank 62C in response to the operation of the operation buttons 16D to 16E. In the liquid type setting mode, the liquid display 17D may be turned on. A long press is, for example, a press for 3 seconds or more.

[0082] Before step S32 is executed, even if the operation buttons 16D to 16E are operated, changing of the settings is restricted. When the control unit 12 transitions to the liquid agent type setting mode, it becomes possible to change the settings.

[0083] Next, the operation display unit 14 accepts a setting of the type of liquid agent contained in the tank 62C (S33). The user operates the operation buttons 16D to 16E to input a setting of the type of liquid agent contained in the tank 62C from among "bleach" and "delicates detergent." Specifically, the user presses the operation buttons 16D to 16E once or multiple times until the arrow moves next to the option for the liquid agent type setting that the user wants to input.

[0084] Next, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the operation button 16C has been short-pressed (S34). A short press is a press that lasts for a shorter period of time than a long press. For example, a short press is a press that lasts for one second or less.

[0085] If the operation button 16C has not been pressed briefly (No in S34), the control unit 12 repeats step S34.

[0086] When the operation button 16C is pressed briefly (Yes in S34), the control unit 12 executes a reference amount setting mode capable of accepting a reference amount setting for the tank 62C (S35). Specifically, the reference amount setting mode is a mode of the control unit 12 capable of changing the reference amount setting for the tank 62C in response to the operation of the operation buttons 16D to 16E. In the reference amount setting mode, the reference amount display 17E may be lit. Note that, before transitioning to the reference amount setting mode, the control unit 12 may store the input liquid type setting in the memory unit 13.

[0087] In the reference amount setting mode, the liquid type setting of tank 62C accepted in the liquid type setting mode is displayed on liquid display 17D. In the first embodiment, the liquid type setting of tank 62C is displayed by displaying an arrow next to the text display of the liquid type setting on liquid display 17D (FIGS. 5A and 5B).

[0088] Next, operation display unit 14 accepts the setting of the reference amount of the liquid agent contained in tank 62C (S36). The user operates operation buttons 16D to 16E to input the reference amount of the liquid agent contained in tank 62C. Specifically, the user presses operation buttons 16D to 16E once or multiple times until the reference amount that the user wants to input is displayed in reference amount display 17E.

[0089] Next, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the operation button 16C has been pressed briefly (S37).

[0090] If the operation button 16C has not been pressed briefly (No in S37), the control unit 12 repeats step S38.

[0091] When operation button 16C is pressed briefly (Yes in S37), control unit 12 stores the input liquid type setting in memory unit 13 (S38), and stores the input reference amount setting in memory unit 13 (S39).

[0092] Next, the control unit 12 executes step S30 again.

[0093] On the other hand, when the operation button 16C is pressed briefly in step S30 (short press in S30), the control unit 12 executes an input setting mode capable of accepting the automatic input setting and the input adjustment setting of the tank 62C (S52). Specifically, the input setting mode is a mode of the control unit 12 capable of changing the automatic input setting and the input adjustment setting of the tank 62C in response to the operation of the operation button 16C.

[0094] Next, the operation display unit 14 receives input settings for the liquid agent contained in the tank 62C (S53). The user operates the operation button 16C to input the input settings for the liquid agent contained in the tank 62C.

[0095] Next, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the start button 18 has been pressed (S54).

[0096] If the start button 18 is pressed (Yes in S54), the control unit 12 stores the input input setting in the memory unit 13 (S55) and executes the selected operating course (S56). In other words, the control unit 12 waits for the start button 18 to be pressed before finalizing the input setting. Thereafter, the control unit 12 ends the operation.

[0097] If the start button 18 has not been pressed (No in S54), the control unit 12 repeats step S54.

[0098] In addition, in the case where the type of liquid agent can be selected in the tanks 62A and 62B, an operation similar to the setting operation in the tank 62C may be performed in the tanks 62A and 62B.

[0099] The above description is summarized to describe the features of the present disclosure.

[0100] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, the liquid agent contained in the tank 62C is selected from a plurality of types. In order to appropriately dispense the liquid agent contained in the tank 62C in the operation course, it is required to accept the liquid agent type setting of the tank 62C. Therefore, in the operation display unit 14 of the washing machine 1, the liquid agent type setting of the tank 62C is input using an operation button for inputting other settings related to automatic dispensing of the liquid agent. Compared to the case where a dedicated button for inputting the liquid agent type setting is provided, the structure of the operation display unit 14 can be simplified. Also, compared to the case where a dedicated button for inputting the liquid agent type setting is provided, the operation display unit 14 can be made more space-saving.

[0101] [effect] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment can provide the following effects.

[0102] The washing machine 1 of the first embodiment includes a washing tub 4 that contains laundry, a first tank (tank 62C), a first automatic dispenser (pump mechanism 63C), an operation unit (operation unit 16) that accepts user operations, and a control unit 12. The tank 62C contains a first liquid agent. The pump mechanism 63C is connected to the tank 62C and dispenses the first liquid agent into the washing tub 4. The operation unit 16 has an operation button 16C that is a physical button. In response to receiving an operation via the operation button 16C, the control unit 12 can execute a liquid agent type setting mode that can accept the setting of the type of the first liquid agent contained in the tank 62C, and a dispense setting mode that can accept ON / OFF switching of automatic dispense by the pump mechanism 63C.

[0103] With this configuration, the liquid agent type setting mode and the input setting mode can be executed by operating the common operation button 16C. Therefore, compared with the case where a dedicated button is provided for each mode, the configuration of the operation unit 16 can be simplified, and the space required for providing the operation unit 16 can be saved. In addition, by consolidating the transitions between multiple setting modes into a single operation button 16C, the user can easily understand the operation method, improving the usability of the washing machine 1.

[0104] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the control unit 12 executes a liquid agent type setting mode in response to receiving a first operation (long press) on the operation button 16C. The control unit 12 executes a dispense setting mode in response to receiving a second operation (short press) on the operation button 16C that is different from the long press.

[0105] With this configuration, two setting modes can be executed by differentiating the operations with one operation button 16C.

[0106] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, a long press is an operation of pressing the operation button 16C, and a short press is an operation of pressing the operation button 16C for a time shorter than a long press.

[0107] This configuration can increase the user's attention to the operation when setting the type of liquid. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the liquid type setting from being changed unintentionally by the user. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unexpected effects or damage to laundry caused by changing the liquid dispensed in the operation course.

[0108] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the control unit 12 executes a reference amount setting mode capable of receiving the setting of a reference amount of the first liquid agent after executing the liquid agent type setting mode.

[0109] With this configuration, once the type of liquid has been set, the user can be prompted to set a reference amount suitable for the changed type of liquid.

[0110] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the control unit 12 starts a reference amount setting mode in response to receiving a third operation (short press) on the operation button 16C in the liquid agent type setting mode.

[0111] With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the setting mode from being changed unintentionally by the user. Also, by consolidating the change of the multiple setting modes into one operation button 16C, the operation method is easy for the user to understand, and the usability of the washing machine 1 is improved.

[0112] The washing machine 1 of the first embodiment further includes a display unit 17 that displays information to a user. In the reference amount setting mode, the control unit 12 causes the display unit 17 to display the setting of the type of the first liquid agent received in the liquid agent type setting mode.

[0113] With this configuration, in the reference amount setting mode, the type of liquid that has been received is displayed to the user, making it possible to prompt the user to input a reference amount setting appropriate for that type of liquid.

[0114] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the control unit 12 can further accept the setting of the input adjustment amount with respect to the reference amount in the input setting mode.

[0115] With this configuration, the effect of the operating course can be easily adapted to the user's preferences and requests by adjusting the input settings.

[0116] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but can be embodied in various other forms.

[0117] In the first embodiment, an example in which the user inputs the reference amount setting through the operation display unit 14 has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the reference amount setting may be input through an application stored in the user's smartphone. In this case, the control unit 12 further has a communication unit for communicating with an external device such as a smartphone. In addition, the control unit 12 may acquire the corresponding reference amount setting by referring to a library stored in an external device or a server based on the liquid type setting.

[0118] In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the operation display unit 14 accepts the liquid type setting, the reference amount setting, and the supply setting including the automatic supply setting and the supply adjustment setting, but the present invention is not limited to this. The operation display unit 14 may be configured to accept only the liquid type setting and the supply setting. The operation display unit 14 may also accept other settings related to the automatic supply of the liquid. For example, after executing step S39, the operation display unit 14 may accept settings related to the supply timing of the liquid in the operation course, the number of rotations of the drum, the temperature of the wash water, the amount of water supplied, and the operation time in this order. The order in which the settings are accepted is not limited to this, and the operation display unit 14 may accept additional settings in a different order.

[0119] If the automatic input setting is normally set to OFF after the operating course is executed, and a constant input setting that maintains the automatic input setting as ON is possible in response to user operation, the operation display unit 14 may accept the constant input setting after executing step S39.

[0120] In the first embodiment, an example in which the liquid type setting of the tank 62C is selected between "bleach" and "delicate detergent" has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the liquid type setting of the tank 62C may be other liquid types such as "detergent" and "fabric softener". The type of liquid may also be defined by other information that identifies the liquid. For example, the type of liquid may be defined by the brand of the liquid, or may be defined by the characteristics of the liquid such as liquidity and polarity.

[0121] In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the first operation for enabling the liquid medicine type setting mode to be executed is a long press, and the second operation for enabling the injection setting mode to be executed is a short press, but this is not limited thereto. The second operation may be an operation in which the operation button 16C is pressed a smaller number of times than the first operation. For example, the first operation may be pressing the operation button 16C multiple times (e.g., pressing twice), and the second operation may be pressing the operation button 16C once.

[0122] In the first embodiment, the operation display unit 14 accepts the reference amount setting after the liquid type setting, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, in step S30, when the control unit 12 determines that the operation button 16C has been pressed long, the control unit 12 may be able to execute the reference amount setting mode on the operation display unit 14 before executing the liquid type setting mode. In addition, in step S30, when the control unit 12 determines that the operation button 16C has been pressed long, the control unit 12 may be able to simultaneously execute both the liquid type setting mode and the reference amount setting mode on the operation display unit 14. In other words, the user may input the liquid type setting and the reference amount setting in any order, and the short press in step S34 may be omitted. In this case, the operation button for changing the liquid type setting and the operation button for changing the reference amount setting may be different. In addition, when the washing machine 1 has an alarm unit such as a buzzer, when the short press in step S37 is accepted, the control unit 12 may cause the alarm unit to notify the user that the setting has been accepted.

[0123] In the first embodiment, the example in which the display unit 17 has the liquid display 17D has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The display unit 17 may have a display showing the liquid that can be stored in the tank 62C and an LED lamp corresponding to each liquid. The input liquid type setting can be displayed depending on the lighting state (on / off) of the LED lamp.

[0124] (Embodiment 2) FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the operation display unit 114 according to the second embodiment.

[0125] Washing machine 1 in the second embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment in the configuration of operation display unit 114, particularly in that operation display unit 114 does not accept the input adjustment setting. In other words, in washing machine 1 in the second embodiment, operation display unit 114 accepts only the automatic input setting as the input setting. That is, in the second embodiment, the input setting can be rephrased as the automatic input setting. Hereinafter, in the second embodiment, the input setting will be described as the automatic input setting.

[0126] Unless otherwise specified, the configuration and operation of washing machine 1 in embodiment 2 are common to the configuration and operation of washing machine 1 in embodiment 1. The following describes the differences from embodiment 1.

[0127] 9, operation display unit 114 has display unit 117 that displays information to a user. Display unit 117 has input displays 117A-117C instead of input displays 17A-17C. Input displays 117A-117C correspond to tanks 62A-62C, respectively, and display automatic input settings for the liquid agent contained in the corresponding tanks.

[0128] The insert indicators 117A-117C have an indicator showing ON / OFF of the automatic insert setting, and a lighting unit (not shown) for turning on / off each indicator independently. In the second embodiment, the indicators of the insert indicators 117A-117C each include the character indicators "ON" and "OFF". The lighting unit is an LED.

[0129] When operation buttons 16A-16C are operated, the automatic charge setting is switched ON / OFF, and the lighting state of charge indicators 117A-117C also changes accordingly. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, when the automatic charge setting for tank 62C is set to "ON", the "ON" indicator is lit in charge indicator 117C. Then, when operation button 16C is pressed, the "ON" indicator is turned off and the "OFF" indicator is lit. The "OFF" indicator being lit indicates that the automatic charge setting for tank 62C has been switched from the "ON" setting to the "OFF" setting.

[0130] In the second embodiment, an example has been described in which none of the input indicators 117A-117C corresponding to the tanks 62A-62C display the input adjustment setting, but this is not limiting. For example, only the display of "ON" may be provided, and when "ON" is not lit, that is, when "ON" is turned off, it may display "OFF." Also, for example, the input indicator corresponding to at least one of the tanks 62A-62C may display the input adjustment setting.

[0131] (Embodiment 3) 10A to 10C are schematic diagrams of operation display unit 214 according to the third embodiment.

[0132] The washing machine 1 in the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the configuration of the operation display unit 214, particularly in that it has a liquid agent display 217D instead of the liquid agent display 17D.

[0133] As shown in Figs. 10A to 10C, the operation display unit 214 has a display unit 217 that displays information to the user. The display unit 217 has a liquid agent display 217D instead of the liquid agent display 17D. The liquid agent display 217D displays the liquid agent type setting of the liquid agent contained in the tank 62C and the automatic dispensing setting. In the third embodiment as well, only the automatic dispensing setting is accepted as the dispensing setting.

[0134] The liquid agent display 217D has a display showing options for liquid agent type setting and a lighting section (not shown) for turning on / off each display independently. In the third embodiment, the display of each liquid agent display 217D includes the text display of "bleach" and "delicate detergent". The lighting section is an LED.

[0135] Here, how the liquid agent display 217D displays both the liquid agent type setting and the automatic dispensing setting will be described.

[0136] When the control unit 12 is executing the liquid type setting mode, the liquid type setting is displayed by lighting one of the text displays "Bleach" and "Delicates detergent". Specifically, the lighting of "Bleach" indicates that "Bleach" has been selected as the liquid type setting for the tank 62C, and the lighting of "Delicates detergent" indicates that "Delicates detergent" has been selected as the liquid type setting for the tank 62C.

[0137] To change the setting in the liquid agent type setting mode, the operation display unit 214 accepts the operation of the operation buttons 16D to 16E. When the operation buttons 16D to 16E are operated in the liquid agent type setting mode, the input liquid agent type setting is changed, and the lighting state of the text display of the liquid agent display 217D is also changed. Specifically, when the operation button 16E is pressed in the state of FIG. 10A, "Bleach" lights up as shown in FIG. 10B. When the operation button 16E is pressed again, "Delicates detergent" lights up as shown in FIG. 10C.

[0138] When the operation button 16E is pressed again, the character display may be turned off as shown in Fig. 10A. This allows the tank 62C to be set to contain no liquid agent of any kind.

[0139] When the control unit 12 is executing the dispensing setting mode, the ON / OFF of the automatic dispensing setting is displayed according to the lighting state of the character display corresponding to the accepted liquid type. Specifically, when the character display is lit, it indicates the "ON" setting as the automatic dispensing setting, and when the character display is off, it indicates the "OFF" setting as the automatic dispensing setting.

[0140] Unlike the liquid type setting mode, in order to change the setting in the automatic dispensing setting, the operation display unit 214 accepts the operation of the operation button 16C. Here, a case will be considered in which "delicates detergent" is set as the liquid type setting of the tank 62C and "OFF" is set as the automatic dispensing setting. In this case, as shown in FIG. 10A, "delicates detergent" is turned off. When the operation button 16C is pressed in the automatic dispensing setting, as shown in FIG. 10C, "delicates detergent" is turned on and the automatic dispensing setting is set to "ON". When the operation button 16C is pressed again, as shown in FIG. 10A, "delicates detergent" is turned off and the automatic dispensing setting is set to "OFF".

[0141] In the third embodiment, the automatic feed setting is changed by operating the operation button 16C, but the present invention is not limited to this. The user may input the automatic feed setting by operating an operation button used for other operations.

[0142] The washing machine in the first aspect includes a washing tub for storing laundry, a first tank for storing a first liquid agent, a first automatic dispensing device connected to the first tank for dispensing the first liquid agent into the washing tub, an operation unit for accepting user operations, and a control unit, wherein the operation unit has an operation button constituted by a physical button, and the control unit is capable of executing a liquid agent type setting mode capable of accepting the setting of the type of the first liquid agent stored in the first tank and a dispensing setting mode capable of accepting ON / OFF switching of automatic dispensing by the first automatic dispensing device in response to accepting an operation via the operation button.

[0143] As a washing machine in a second aspect, in the washing machine in the first aspect, the control unit executes a liquid type setting mode in response to receiving a first operation via the operation button, and executes an input setting mode in response to receiving a second operation different from the first operation via the operation button.

[0144] As a washing machine in a third aspect, in the washing machine in the second aspect, the first operation is an operation in which the operation button is pressed, and the second operation is an operation in which the operation button is pressed for a shorter period of time than the first operation, or an operation in which the operation button is pressed for a shorter period of time than the first operation.

[0145] In a fourth aspect of the washing machine, in any of the first to third aspects, the control unit executes a reference amount setting mode capable of accepting the setting of a reference amount of the first liquid agent after executing the liquid agent type setting mode.

[0146] As a washing machine in a fifth aspect, in the washing machine in the fourth aspect, the control unit starts a reference amount setting mode in response to receiving a third operation with the operation button in the liquid type setting mode.

[0147] In a sixth aspect, the washing machine in the fourth or fifth aspect further includes a display unit that displays information to a user, and in the reference amount setting mode, the control unit causes the display unit to display the setting of the type of the first liquid agent received in the liquid agent type setting mode.

[0148] As a washing machine in a seventh aspect, in a washing machine in any of the first to sixth aspects, the control unit is capable of executing a reference amount setting mode that can accept the setting of a reference amount of the first liquid agent after or before executing the liquid agent type setting mode.

[0149] As the washing machine in an eighth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the control unit is further capable of accepting setting of an input adjustment amount relative to a reference amount in the input setting mode.

[0150] Although the present disclosure has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications should be understood to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims, unless they depart therefrom. [Industrial Applicability]

[0151] The washing machine of the present disclosure is useful as a home washing machine, a commercial washing machine, or any type of washer-dryer (e.g., a home drum washing machine) because it can suppress mixing of the liquids when multiple liquids are added in a specified process. [Explanation of symbols]

[0152] 1. Washing machine 2. Chassis 3 Outer tank 4 Washing tub 5 Drive unit 6 Automatic insertion unit 8 Connection Channel 10 Water supply device 11 Drain valve 12 Control section 13 Storage section 14 Operation display section 16 Control section 16A~16E Operation buttons 17 Display section 17A~17C input display 17D Liquid Display 17E Reference amount display 61 cases 62A~62C Tank 63A~63C Pump mechanism 64 Liquid discharge flow path

Claims

1. A washing tub for storing laundry; a first tank containing a first liquid agent; A first automatic dispenser connected to the first tank and configured to dispense a first liquid agent into the washing tub; an operation unit that accepts user operations; A control unit; Equipped with The operation unit has an operation button configured by a physical button, The control unit is capable of executing a liquid type setting mode capable of accepting the setting of the type of a first liquid contained in the first tank in response to accepting an operation via the operation button, and a liquid supply setting mode capable of accepting switching ON / OFF of automatic supply by the first automatic supply device.

2. The control unit is In response to receiving a first operation by the operation button, the liquid type setting mode is executed; The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the load setting mode is executed in response to receiving a second operation different from the first operation through the operation button.

3. the first operation is an operation of pressing the operation button, The washing machine according to claim 2 , wherein the second operation is an operation in which the operation button is pressed for a shorter time than the first operation, or an operation in which the operation button is pressed for a shorter time than the first operation.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit executes a reference amount setting mode capable of receiving a setting of a reference amount of the first liquid agent after executing the liquid agent type setting mode.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit starts the reference amount setting mode in response to receiving a third operation via the operation button in the liquid agent type setting mode.

6. A display unit for displaying information to a user is further provided, The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the control unit, in the reference amount setting mode, causes the display unit to display the setting of the type of the first liquid agent received in the liquid agent type setting mode.

7. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is capable of executing a reference amount setting mode capable of receiving a setting of a reference amount of the first liquid agent after or before executing the liquid agent type setting mode.

8. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is further configured to accept a setting of an adjustment amount of water to be input relative to a reference amount in the input setting mode.

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