Washing machine and method

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of injecting an appropriate amount of a liquid agent when information on the type of the liquid agent is received.SOLUTION: A washing machine includes: a first tank for accommodating a liquid agent; a liquid agent injection device for injecting the liquid agent accommodated in the first tank; and a control part. The control part can execute: liquid agent type reception processing in which information on the type of the liquid agent accommodated in the first tank can be received; and reference amount reception processing in which information on an injection reference amount of the liquid agent accommodated in the first tank can be received. When receiving the information on the type of the liquid agent in the liquid agent type reception processing, the control part can execute an initial value presentation step of presenting an initial value of the injection reference amount in the reference amount reception processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

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 plurality of tanks for storing liquid agents, an automatic dispenser, a flow path communicating with the washing tub, and an operation unit. The automatic dispenser dispenses the liquid agents stored in the respective tanks into the flow path. The operation unit receives operation conditions related to the operation course. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2000-157782 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 the washing machine receives information on the type of liquid. On the other hand, if the washing machine receives information on the type of liquid, it becomes difficult to dispense an appropriate amount of liquid for the type of liquid.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problem and to provide a washing machine that can dispense an appropriate amount of liquid when information on the type of liquid is received. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a first tank for containing a liquid, a liquid dosing device for dosing the liquid contained in the first tank, and a control unit, and the control unit is capable of executing a liquid type reception process for receiving information on the type of liquid contained in the first tank and a reference amount reception process for receiving information on a reference amount of the liquid contained in the first tank to be dispensed, and when the control unit receives information on the type of liquid in the liquid type reception process, it is capable of executing an initial value presentation step for presenting an initial value of the reference amount to be dispensed in the reference amount reception process.

[0008] A method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a method for controlling a washing machine, the method including executing a liquid type reception process capable of receiving information on the type of liquid contained in the first tank, and executing a reference amount reception process capable of receiving information on a reference amount to be dispensed by a liquid dosing device that dispenses the liquid contained in the first tank, and further including, when information on the type of liquid is received in the liquid type reception process, executing an initial value presentation step of presenting an initial value of the reference amount to be dispensed in the reference amount reception process. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine can be provided that can dispense an appropriate amount of liquid when information on the type of liquid is received. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] Schematic cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] Table showing the relationship between the type of liquid and the magnification of the standard amount and the adjustment amount [Figure 3A] Perspective view of the automatic insertion unit [Figure 3B] Schematic diagram of the automatic feeding unit [Figure 4] Flowchart showing the operation of a washing machine [Diagram 5] Flowchart showing the operation of liquid type reception processing [Figure 6] Flowchart showing the operation of the reference amount reception process [Figure 7]Flowchart showing the operation of input information reception processing [Figure 8A] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 8B] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 8C] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 8D] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 9A] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 9B] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 9C] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 10A] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 10B] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 10C] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 11A] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 1 [Figure 11B] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 1 [Figure 11C] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 1 [Figure 11D] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 1 [Figure 12A] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 2 [Figure 12B] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 2 [Figure 12C] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 2 [Figure 12D] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 2 [Figure 13A] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 3 [Figure 13B] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit in Modification 3 [Figure 14A] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit according to embodiment 2. [Figure 14B] Schematic diagram of an operation display unit according to embodiment 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] (Embodiment 1) A washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0012] [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, and an operation display unit 14.

[0013] <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.

[0014] <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.

[0015] <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.

[0016] <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.

[0017] <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.

[0018] In this specification, the liquid agent is a liquid agent used for treating laundry 15 such as clothes and towels, and includes detergents, fabric softeners, neutral detergents for delicates, bleaches, disinfectants, deodorizers, fragrances, laundry starches, and other laundry auxiliaries, etc. The neutral detergents for delicates may be called detergents for delicates or neutral detergents.

[0019] 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.

[0020] Tank 62A contains a type of liquid agent arbitrarily selected by the user. In the first embodiment, the user selects bleach or detergent for delicates and pours it into tank 62A. Tanks 62B and 62C contain predetermined types of liquid agents. Specifically, tank 62B contains fabric softener, and tank 62C contains detergent. Note that tanks 62B and 62C may also contain types of liquid agent arbitrarily selected by the user. That is, all tanks 62A to 62C provided in washing machine 1 may contain types of liquid agent arbitrarily selected by the user.

[0021] <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.

[0022] <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.

[0023] <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.

[0024] <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. In the first embodiment, the operation display unit 14 has a liquid crystal touch panel that integrally has an operation unit and a display unit. The operation display unit 14 is provided on the front surface of the housing 2 at a position that can be operated and viewed by the user.

[0025] The operation display unit 14 is capable of displaying various screens. A user can operate (press) the display on each screen. The operation display unit 14 can change the display in response to a user operation.

[0026] The user can input information regarding the automatic supply of the liquid agents contained in the tanks 62A to 62C by operating the operation display unit 14. The information input by the user on the operation display unit 14 is received by the control unit 12.

[0027] The information on the automatic dispensing of the liquid includes information on the type of liquid, information on the reference amount of the liquid, and information on the dispensing of the liquid. The information on the dispensing of the liquid includes ON / OFF of the automatic dispensing of the liquid (whether or not to execute automatic dispensing) and an adjustment amount relative to the reference amount. The control unit 12 sets the operating conditions of the automatic dispensing unit 6 based on the above-mentioned information on the automatic dispensing of the liquid received by the operation display unit 14, and controls the operation of the automatic dispensing unit 6.

[0028] As information on the type of liquid, the user can input information on the type of liquid contained in tank 62A. In the first embodiment, the user selects the type of liquid in tank 62A between "bleach" and "delicate detergent". On the other hand, since the types of liquid contained in tanks 62B and 62C are fixed, the user omits inputting information on the type of liquid in tanks 62B and 62C.

[0029] As information on the reference amount of the liquid, the user can input the amount of the liquid contained in the tanks 62A to 62C per unit amount of water as the reference amount. In the first embodiment, the reference amount is a numerical value of the amount of the liquid to be introduced per a predetermined amount of water (e.g., 30 L).

[0030] As the liquid drug supply information, the user can input ON / OFF of automatic supply of the liquid drug contained in the tanks 62A-62C, and, when automatic supply is "ON", an adjustment amount for adjusting the amount of liquid drug supplied relative to a reference amount. In the first embodiment, the control unit 12 displays options of "more", "standard", "less", and "none" on the operation display unit 14 as options for the liquid drug supply information, and accepts any of the options.

[0031] When the control unit 12 receives "more," "standard," or "less" as the injection information, it accepts "ON" as the automatic injection. When automatic injection is "ON," liquid is automatically injected during the operating course being executed. On the other hand, when the control unit 12 receives "none" as the injection information, it accepts "OFF" as the automatic injection. When automatic injection is "OFF," liquid is not automatically injected during the operating course being executed.

[0032] The adjustment amount is information for adjusting the amount of liquid agent dispensed relative to a reference amount when automatic dispensing is "ON". In the first embodiment, the adjustment amount is selected from three dispensing levels, "less", "standard", and "more". Each dispensing level corresponds to a multiplication factor by which the reference amount is multiplied. Any number of options may be provided as options for the adjustment amount. The user may directly input a multiplication factor by which the reference amount is multiplied. In the first embodiment, the multiplication factor corresponding to "standard" is 1, but may be other than 1. The multiplication factors corresponding to "more" and "less" may be the multiplication factor corresponding to "standard" multiplied by a predetermined value.

[0033] When the automatic switch is "OFF", the control unit 12 does not accept information on the adjustment amount.

[0034] <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.

[0035] The control unit 12 accepts information input by the user on the operation display unit 14. The control unit 12 can set the accepted information in response to a predetermined operation by the user (e.g., pressing the "OK" button). "Setting" means storing the information in the memory unit 13 for use in controlling the operation of the automatic dosing unit 6 in the operating course.

[0036] The control unit 12 is capable of executing a liquid drug type reception process, a reference amount reception process, and an input information reception process. In the liquid drug type reception process, the control unit 12 receives information on the type of liquid drug in response to a user's operation of the operation display unit 14. In the reference amount reception process, the control unit 12 receives information on the reference amount of liquid drug in response to a user's operation of the operation display unit 14. In the input information reception process, the control unit 12 also receives ON / OFF of automatic input and the adjustment amount in response to a user's operation of the operation display unit 14.

[0037] Furthermore, the control unit 12 presents information on the operation display unit 14 based on the received information and the information stored in the memory unit 13. "Present" means that the information determined by the control unit 12 is displayed on the operation display unit 14. "Present" means that the information determined by the control unit 12 is displayed on the operation display unit 14 in a manner that can be distinguished from other information, such as information that has not been determined. The presented information does not have to be stored in the memory unit 13.

[0038] <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.

[0039] The memory unit 13 stores the type of liquid agent, the reference amount, the adjustment amount, and ON / OFF of automatic injection set by the control unit 12. Therefore, the user does not need to input each piece of information (operating conditions) every time an operating course is executed. On the other hand, when each operating condition is changed, the memory unit 13 stores the changed operating condition instead of the operating condition before the change. In other words, the memory unit 13 temporarily stores the operating condition until it is updated.

[0040] FIG. 2 is a table showing the correspondence between the type of liquid medicine stored in the memory unit 13, information on the reference amount, and the magnification of the adjustment amount.

[0041] 2, the memory unit 13 stores an initial reference amount for each type of acceptable liquid. The initial reference amount is an amount that can exert the effect of the liquid and prevent damage to laundry. When information on the type of liquid is received, the control unit 12 refers to the memory unit 13 and determines the initial reference amount.

[0042] The storage unit 13 stores a changeable range of the reference amount for each type of liquid medicine. In other words, the storage unit 13 stores a maximum value and a minimum value of the reference amount for each type of liquid medicine.

[0043] The memory unit 13 stores a magnification of the reference amount corresponding to the adjustment amount for each type of liquid. Specifically, the memory unit 13 stores a magnification of the reference amount corresponding to "less" and "more" for each type of liquid. Two different types of liquid (e.g., fabric softener and detergent for delicates) may have different magnifications of the reference amount corresponding to a certain adjustment amount ("more"). Also, depending on the type of liquid, it is not necessary to store a magnification corresponding to a specific adjustment amount. For example, when the type of liquid is a "disinfectant", the memory unit 13 does not store a magnification corresponding to "less". In this case, the user cannot select "less" as the input information.

[0044] Next, a more detailed structure of the automatic feeding unit 6 will be described. Fig. 3A is a perspective view of the automatic feeding unit 6. Fig. 3B is a schematic view of the automatic feeding unit 6.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3A, 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.

[0046] 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, 63C are connected to the respective tanks 62A to 62C via rear surface 57.

[0047] As shown in Fig. 3B, 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. 3B, the other tanks 62B to 62C and pump mechanisms 63B to 63C have the same configuration.

[0048] Returning to Fig. 3A, the tanks 62A to 62C are containers for storing liquid medicine, and are accommodated in the case 61 lined up on the outer side K1 (horizontal direction away from the central axis V0 in Fig. 1). The depth and volume of the three tanks 62A to 62C increase on the outer side K1. The tanks 62A to 62C are removable from the case 61 so that they can be replenished when the remaining amount of liquid medicine becomes low.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] Next, the flow of water and liquid agent in the automatic dispensing unit 6 will be described.

[0052] 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. 3B, the water that has flowed into the case 61 passes under the tanks 62A-62C along the bottom of the case 61 and is fed into the outer tank 3 via the connecting flow path 8 (Fig. 3A). A part of the water that has flowed 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 connecting flow path 8.

[0053] 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.

[0054] [Operation] Next, the operation of the washing machine 1 when receiving information about the liquid agent contained in the tank 62A will be described. FIG 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the washing machine 1.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 12 sequentially executes a liquid medicine type receiving process (S2), a reference amount receiving process (S3), and an input information receiving process (S4).

[0056] The control unit 12 does not have to execute each process in the order shown in Fig. 4. For example, the control unit 12 may execute the input information reception process and the reference amount reception process in that order after executing the liquid drug type reception process in response to a user operation, or may execute the reference amount reception process and / or the input information reception process without executing the liquid drug type reception process.

[0057] The control unit 12 executes the liquid type receiving process and the reference amount receiving process when the user changes the type of liquid contained in the tank 62A or when the user puts liquid into the tank 62A for the first time after purchasing the washing machine 1. The control unit 12 may execute the liquid type receiving process and the reference amount receiving process before or after the user puts liquid into the tank 62A.

[0058] Furthermore, the control unit 12 may execute the reference amount receiving process and the adjustment amount receiving process in cases other than when the user changes the type of liquid agent contained in the tank 62A. For example, the control unit 12 may execute the reference amount receiving process when the user changes the liquid agent contained in the tank 62A to a different brand of the same type of liquid agent.

[0059] Furthermore, the control unit 12 may execute the input information reception process before the execution of any operating course.

[0060] 5 to 7 are flow charts showing the operation of the liquid medicine type receiving process, the reference amount receiving process, and the adjustment amount receiving process, respectively. FIGs. 8A to 10C are schematic diagrams showing the operation display unit 14 in each process.

[0061] <Liquid type reception process> 5, in the liquid agent type reception process, the control unit 12 receives input of information on the type of liquid agent contained in the tank 62A (S21). Specifically, the control unit 12 receives a selection of either "bleach" or "delicates detergent" as the type of liquid agent contained in the tank 62A in response to a user operation.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 8A, the operation display unit 14 displays a liquid drug input information screen D1. The liquid drug input information screen D1 displays tank displays 70A-70C corresponding to the tanks 62A-62C in a pressable manner. The tank displays 70A-70C display information set regarding the liquid drug contained in the tanks 62A-62C, respectively. Note that the tank displays 70A-70C are not stored in the storage unit 13 (i.e., are not set), but may display input information. Specifically, the tank displays 70A-70C display the identification information, type of liquid drug, reference amount, and input information of the tanks 62A-62C. In the liquid drug input information screen D1, the tank 62A is displayed as "Tank 3", the tank 62B is displayed as "Tank 2", and the tank 62C is displayed as "Tank 1", but other identification information for identifying the tanks may be displayed.

[0063] In the liquid type reception process, the user presses the tank display 70A corresponding to the tank 62A. As shown in Fig. 8B, in response to the user's operation, the operation display unit 14 displays the tank 3 information screen D2. The tank 3 information screen D2 displays the type of liquid contained in the tank 62A (type display 71), the reference amount (reference amount display 72), input information (input information display 73), a decision button 74, and a type change button 75 in a pressable manner.

[0064] To change or re-input the type of liquid, the user presses the type change button 75 on the tank 3 information screen D2. As shown in FIG. 8C, the operation display unit 14 displays a liquid type selection screen D3 in response to a user operation. The liquid type selection screen D3 displays bleach (bleach display 76) and delicate detergent (delicates detergent display 77) as selectable liquid types. The liquid type selection screen D3 also displays the selected liquid type in a highlighted manner. In the example shown in FIG. 8C, delicate detergent is selected as the type of liquid, and the delicate detergent display 77 is highlighted. The highlighting refers to displaying the liquid in a light-dark or black-and-white inversion, displaying it in color, displaying it in a larger font size, displaying it in a frame, and the like.

[0065] From the state shown in Fig. 8C, as shown in Fig. 8D, the user can input a change in the type of liquid by pressing and selecting bleach display 76. At this time, control unit 12 highlights bleach display 76. In step S21, control unit 12 accepts information on this change, i.e., the type of liquid after the change.

[0066] 5, the control unit 12 determines whether or not a predetermined operation has been performed (S22). Specifically, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the decision button 80 for confirming the input of the type of liquid has been pressed or the back button 81 on the liquid type selection screen D3.

[0067] When the decision button 80 or the back button 81 is pressed (Yes in S22), the control unit 12 sets the type of liquid (S23). Specifically, when the user changes the type of liquid and presses the decision button 80, the control unit 12 stores the changed type of liquid in the storage unit 13. When the user presses the back button 81, or when the user presses the decision button 80 without changing the type of liquid, the control unit 12 stores the set type of liquid (the type before the change) in the storage unit 13 again.

[0068] If the decision button 80 or the back button 81 has not been pressed (No in S22), the control unit 12 repeats step S21.

[0069] When the user presses the decision button 80 or the back button 81, the operation display unit 14 displays the tank 3 information screen D2 again, as shown in FIG. 9A.

[0070] Next, the control unit 12 displays the set type of liquid on the operation display unit 14 (S24). For example, when the user changes the type of liquid to bleach and presses the decision button 80, the operation display unit 14 displays “Bleach” in the type display 71 of the tank 3 information screen D2.

[0071] Thereafter, the control unit 12 ends the liquid medicine type reception process.

[0072] <Standard amount reception processing> 6, in the reference amount reception process, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the liquid type reception process of step S2 has been executed (S30). Specifically, the control unit 12 determines whether or not step S21 has been executed. For example, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the decision button 80 has been pressed on the liquid type selection screen D3. Note that in step S30, the control unit 12 may determine whether or not the type change button 75 has been pressed on the tank 3 information screen D2.

[0073] When the liquid type reception process has been executed (Yes in S30), the control unit 12 determines an initial value of the reference amount based on the information on the type of liquid received in step S21 (S31). Specifically, the control unit 12 refers to the storage unit 13 to acquire and determine an initial value corresponding to the type of liquid received in step S21. Step S31 may be referred to as an "initial value determination step."

[0074] 9A, in the first embodiment, the control unit 12 acquires the initial value of the reference amount, stops displaying the reference amount that was set before the execution of the liquid medicine type reception process, and displays “not set” as the reference amount. Note that the control unit 12 may erase the set reference amount from the storage unit 13.

[0075] Next, the control unit 12 determines a changeable range of the reference amount based on the information on the type of liquid received in step S21 (S32). Specifically, the control unit 12 refers to the storage unit 13 to acquire and determine the changeable range corresponding to the type of liquid received in step S21.

[0076] In addition, when determining steps S31 and S32 or other processes, the control unit 12 may refer to the memory unit 13 and make the decision based on the information on the type of liquid drug that was set in step S23 and stored in the memory unit 13.

[0077] Next, the control unit 12 presents the initial value of the reference amount determined in step S31 (S33). Step S33 may be referred to as an "initial value presenting step".

[0078] Specifically, when the initial value and the changeable range of the reference amount are determined, the control unit 12 enables the display of options 78 of the reference amount corresponding to the initial value and the changeable range of the reference amount on the operation display unit 14. As shown in FIG. 9B, when the user presses the reference amount display 72, the options 78 of the reference amount are expanded on the operation display unit 14. The options 78 include all options within the changeable range. The control unit 12 presents the initial value determined in step S31 in the initial display of the options 78. In this embodiment, presenting the initial value means that the initial value is displayed and highlighted in a manner different from other options in the initial display of the options 78. In other words, the initial value is displayed in a manner that is easier to select than the other options. In this embodiment, the control unit 12 highlighting the option on the operation display unit 14 may be referred to as "presenting".

[0079] Furthermore, the control unit 12 may not display "Not set" as the reference amount on the tank 3 information screen D2, but may display the initial value of the reference amount determined in step S31. The control unit 12 may present the initial value by displaying the initial value of the reference amount on the tank 3 information screen D2.

[0080] On the other hand, in the initial display of the options 78, not all options of the options 78 may be displayed on the operation display unit 14. The user may scroll from the initial display of the options 78 to cause the operation display unit 14 to display options that were not displayed in the initial display.

[0081] On the other hand, if the liquid type reception process has not been executed (No in S30), the control unit 12 acquires and determines the changeable range of the reference amount based on the received information on the type of liquid, similar to step S32 (S34). In this case, when the user presses the reference amount display 72, reference amount options 78 are displayed on the operation display unit 14 according to the determined changeable range. In the initial display of the options 78, the reference amount stored (i.e., set) in the memory unit 13 is presented (i.e., highlighted).

[0082] Next, the control unit 12 executes a reference amount changing step of accepting a change in the reference amount (S35). Specifically, the control unit 12 accepts a change in the reference amount from the initial value (or the set value if the liquid medicine type receiving process has not been executed) within the changeable range acquired in step S32 in response to a user operation.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 9B, options 78 display selectable options for the reference amount within the changeable range. Options 78 display the reference amount in 1 mL units, but are not limited to this. When the user presses the desired reference amount (e.g., 22 mL), the user can input a change to the reference amount. In step S35, the control unit 12 accepts this change. As shown in FIG. 9C, the operation display unit 14 displays "22 mL" in the reference amount display 72 of the tank 3 information screen D2.

[0084] In the reference amount changing step, an example has been described in which the user selects a reference amount from the options 78 to change the reference amount, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of the options 78, the operation display unit 14 may display a button for increasing the reference amount and a button for decreasing the reference amount in a pressable manner. Also, instead of the options 78, the operation display unit 14 may display a slide bar for increasing or decreasing the reference amount. In this case, the initial position of the slide bar corresponds to the initial value.

[0085] Thereafter, the control unit 12 starts the input information receiving process. In the first embodiment, the reference amount and the input information are set at the same time.

[0086] <Input information reception process> As shown in FIG. 7, in the input information reception process, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the liquid agent type reception process in step S2 has been executed (S40).

[0087] When the liquid drug type reception process has been executed (Yes in S40), the control unit 12 determines the initial state of the input information (S41). In the first embodiment, the control unit 12 determines "None" ("OFF" as the ON / OFF of automatic input) as the initial state of the input information. Note that the control unit 12 may erase the input information that was set from the storage unit 13, set "None" instead, and then determine "None".

[0088] Next, the control unit 12 presents the initial state determined in step S41 on the operation display unit 14 (S42). Specifically, as shown in Fig. 9C, the control unit 12 presents the initial state by displaying "None" as input information in the input information display 73. Note that the control unit 12 may present the initial state by highlighting "None" in the option 79, as will be described later in Fig. 10A.

[0089] Next, the control unit 12 acquires options of selectable input information based on the information on the type of liquid medicine received in step S21 (S43). Specifically, the control unit 12 refers to the storage unit 13 and acquires options of input information corresponding to the type of liquid medicine received in step S21.

[0090] On the other hand, if the liquid medicine type information processing has not been executed (No in S40), the control unit 12 executes step S44.

[0091] Next, the control unit 12 executes an input information change step of accepting a change to the input information (S44). Specifically, the control unit 12 accepts a selection of input information from the input information options acquired in step S43 in response to a user operation.

[0092] As shown in Fig. 10A, when the user presses the input information display 73, input information options 79 are displayed. The options 79 display the options of the input information in a selectable manner. In the initial display of the options 79, "None" is presented on the operation display unit 14 in a highlighted state.

[0093] The control unit 12 may be capable of displaying options of input information that cannot be selected in a grayed-out manner on the operation display unit 14. For example, when a disinfectant is accepted as the type of liquid agent, “less” may be displayed in a grayed-out manner on the operation display unit 14.

[0094] 10B, when the user presses the desired input information (e.g., "Standard"), the user can input changes to the input information. When the user presses input information other than "None", the user can switch automatic input from "OFF" to "ON". In step S44, the control unit 12 accepts these changes, i.e., the input information.

[0095] When the control unit 12 accepts "more," "less," or "standard" as input information, the input information acceptance process may be referred to as an adjustment amount acceptance process.

[0096] 7, the control unit 12 determines whether or not a predetermined operation has been performed (S46). Specifically, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the decision button 74 for finalizing the received information (the reference amount in step S35 and the input information in step S44) has been pressed on the tank 3 information screen D2.

[0097] When the decision button 74 is pressed (Yes in S46), the control unit 12 sets the reference amount and input information (S47). Specifically, the control unit 12 stores the reference amount and input information input by the user in the storage unit 13.

[0098] If the decision button 74 has not been pressed (No in S46), the control unit 12 repeats step S44.

[0099] In response to pressing the decision button 74, as shown in Fig. 10C, the operation display unit 14 displays the liquid drug input information screen D1 again. In the liquid drug input information screen D1, the operation display unit 14 displays the set type of liquid drug, the reference amount, and the input information. For example, if the user changes the input information from "none" to "standard" and presses the decision button 74, as shown in Fig. 10C, the operation display unit 14 displays "standard" in the tank display 70A of the liquid drug input information screen D1.

[0100] Thereafter, the control unit 12 ends the input information reception process.

[0101] When the reception process of the information regarding automatic dispensing is completed and a predetermined operation (for example, pressing a course start button) is received from the user, the control unit 12 starts the operation course. When automatic dispensing is "ON", the control unit 12 acquires and determines the magnification of the reference amount corresponding to the dispensing information received in step S44. Specifically, the control unit 12 acquires and determines the magnification of the reference amount based on the received type of liquid and the adjustment amount with reference to the memory unit 13. For example, when bleach is received as the type of liquid, the control unit 12 determines a multiplication factor of 0.5 times as the multiplication factor corresponding to "less", 1.0 times as the multiplication factor corresponding to "standard", or 1.5 times as the multiplication factor corresponding to "more". In the started operation course, the control unit 12 controls the operation of the automatic dispensing unit 6 (pump mechanism 63A) based on the received type of liquid and the adjustment amount and the determined multiplication factor of the reference amount.

[0102] The control unit 12 may execute each process independently. However, when executing the reference amount receiving process without receiving information on the type of liquid, the control unit 12 may display a warning on the operation display unit 14 to the effect that information on the type of liquid has not been received. When executing the input information receiving process without receiving information on the type of liquid or the reference amount, the control unit 12 may display a warning on the operation display unit 14 to the effect that information on the type of liquid or the reference amount has not been received. In addition to the warning, the control unit 12 may display information on the operation display unit 14 to prompt the user to input the type of liquid or the reference amount.

[0103] In the present embodiment, when the decision button 80 or the back button 81 is pressed (Yes in S22), the control unit 12 stores the type of liquid in the storage unit 13 in step S23, but this is not limited to this. The control unit 12 may not execute step S23, and when the decision button 74 is pressed in step S46 (Yes in S46), in step S47, set the type of liquid together with the reference amount and input information and store it in the storage unit 13.

[0104] In this embodiment, the liquid type reception process, reference amount reception process, and input information reception process in tank 62A have been described, but if the type of liquid can also be selected in tanks 62B and 62C, processing similar to the control process in tank 62A may also be executed in tanks 62B and 62C.

[0105] The above description is summarized to describe the features of the present disclosure.

[0106] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, in order to execute automatic dispensing of the liquid contained in the tank 62A, reception of a reference amount and an adjustment amount of the liquid is required. Meanwhile, the liquid contained in the tank 62A is selected from a plurality of types. When the type of the liquid is changed, if the information received about the liquid before the change is applied as it is to the changed liquid, the reference amount becomes inappropriate for the changed liquid, and there is a risk of dispensing an excessive amount of the liquid.

[0107] Therefore, when the information on the type of liquid is received, the control unit 12 performs a reception process on the reference amount of the liquid and the input information based on the newly received type of liquid. Specifically, when the information on the type of liquid is received, the control unit 12 presents the reference amount to an initial value based on the type of liquid, and can prompt the user to input a reference amount appropriate for the type of liquid. Therefore, it is possible to suppress excessive input of the liquid and insufficient input of the liquid. The control unit 12 can determine a changeable range of the reference amount based on the type of liquid, and further prompt the user to input a reference amount appropriate for the type of liquid. In addition, the control unit 12 presents the input information to an initial state based on the type of liquid, and can suppress inappropriate input of the liquid. In addition, the control unit 12 can determine a magnification corresponding to the adjustment amount based on the type of liquid, and can execute input of an appropriate amount for the type of liquid.

[0108] [effect] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment can provide the following effects.

[0109] The washing machine 1 of the first embodiment includes a tank 62A (first tank) that contains a liquid agent, a pump mechanism 63A (liquid agent supplying device) that supplies the liquid agent contained in the tank 62A, and a control unit 12. The control unit 12 is capable of executing a liquid agent type reception process capable of receiving information on the type of liquid agent contained in the tank 62A, and a reference amount reception process capable of receiving information on a reference amount (reference amount to be supplied) of the liquid agent contained in the tank 62A. When the control unit 12 receives information on the type of liquid agent in the liquid agent type reception process, it is capable of executing an initial value presentation step (S33) that presents an initial value of the reference amount in the reference amount reception process.

[0110] With this configuration, the control unit 12 can present an initial value of the reference amount according to the change in the type of liquid. Therefore, compared to the case where the reference amount before the type change is maintained, it is possible to encourage the input of an appropriate input reference amount. Therefore, it is possible to input an appropriate amount of liquid. In particular, when the type of liquid is changed to a liquid that may damage the laundry, the risk of damaging the laundry can be reduced by suppressing excessive input of liquid. In addition, even when the control unit 12 accepts the same type of liquid, it is possible that the user has changed the brand of the liquid within the same type of liquid. Even in this case, since it is necessary to apply an appropriate reference amount to the changed liquid, it is possible to input an appropriate amount of liquid compared to the case where the reference amount according to the brand before the change is maintained.

[0111] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, in the initial value presenting step (S33), the control unit 12 presents an initial value of the reference amount based on the information on the type of liquid received in the liquid type receiving process.

[0112] With this configuration, the control unit 12 can present an initial value suitable for the type of liquid, which can further prevent the liquid from being over- or under-supplied.

[0113] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, in the reference amount receiving process, the control unit 12 can execute a reference amount changing step that can receive a change in the reference amount from the initial value.

[0114] With this configuration, by executing the reference amount changing step (S35), it becomes possible to automatically dispense a reference amount that is more suitable for each type of liquid, even for a specific type of liquid.

[0115] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, in the reference amount changing step (S35), the control unit 12 determines the changeable range of the acceptable reference amount based on the information on the type of liquid received in the liquid type receiving process.

[0116] With this configuration, by providing a changeable range according to the type of liquid, it is possible to prevent over- or under-supply of liquid even when the reference amount change step is executed.

[0117] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the control unit 12 can execute an input information reception process (adjustment amount reception process) capable of receiving information on an adjustment amount relative to a reference input amount. The control unit 12 determines a magnification ratio for the reference amount in the operation of the pump mechanism 63A based on the information on the type of liquid received in the liquid type reception process and the information on the adjustment amount received in the input information reception process.

[0118] With this configuration, the effect of the liquid can be improved by determining a multiplier for the standard amount of liquid to be dispensed that is suitable for the type of liquid and operating the liquid dispensing device.

[0119] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, when the control unit 12 receives a first type as information on the type of liquid in the liquid type reception process, the control unit 12 sets the magnification to a first magnification. When the control unit 12 receives a second type different from the first type as information on the type of liquid in the liquid type reception process, the control unit 12 sets the magnification to a second magnification different from the first magnification.

[0120] With this configuration, the effect of the liquid can be further improved by determining a multiplier for the standard amount of liquid to be dispensed that is suitable for the type of liquid and operating the liquid dispenser.

[0121] Furthermore, in the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, when the control unit 12 receives the second type as information on the type of liquid in the liquid type reception process, the control unit 12 restricts the execution of the input information reception process.

[0122] With this configuration, when a type of liquid is received that has a narrow range of input amounts at which the liquid's effects can be obtained, the acceptance of information on the adjustment amount can be restricted, thereby ensuring that the effects of the liquid can be obtained.

[0123] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the control unit 12 can execute a dispensing information receiving process capable of receiving ON / OFF of automatic dispensing of the liquid contained in the tank 62A. When the control unit 12 receives information on the type of liquid in the liquid type receiving process, it presents the OFF state of automatic dispensing of the liquid contained in the tank 62A.

[0124] With this configuration, automatic injection of liquid agent unintentionally by the user can be prevented during the operation course.

[0125] In addition, in the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the control unit 12 can execute an initial value presenting step (S33) when the type of liquid is changed in the liquid type receiving process.

[0126] With this configuration, excessive dispensing of liquid can be prevented compared to the case where the reference amount before the type change is maintained.

[0127] Furthermore, the method of controlling the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment includes executing a liquid type receiving process capable of receiving information on the type of liquid contained in the tank 62A. The method includes executing a reference amount receiving process capable of receiving information on a reference amount of liquid to be added by the pump mechanism 63A that adds the liquid contained in the tank 62A. The method further includes, when the information on the type of liquid is received in the liquid type receiving process, executing an initial value presenting step (S33) of presenting an initial value of the reference amount to be added in the reference amount receiving process.

[0128] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments, and can be embodied in various other forms.

[0129] In the first embodiment, the automatic dosing unit 6 is provided with pump mechanisms 63A-63C corresponding to the tanks 62A-62C, but the present invention is not limited to this. Automatic dosing control may be performed by one pump mechanism for the tanks 62A-62C. In this case, the discharge of the liquid agent contained in the tanks 62A-62C may be achieved by one pump mechanism and a three-way valve.

[0130] In the first embodiment, an example in which the user inputs information on the type of liquid, information on the reference amount, and input information through the operation display unit 14 has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, information on the type of liquid, information on the reference amount, and input information 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 by referring to a library stored in an external device or a server based on the type of liquid. In addition, in the first embodiment, an example in which the control unit 12 determines the initial value of the reference amount and the initial state of the input information and presents them through the operation display unit 14 has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. When information on the type of liquid, information on the reference amount, and input information are input through an application stored in the user's smartphone, the initial value of the reference amount and the initial state of the input information may be determined in the server or application, or the initial value of the reference amount and the initial state of the input information may be presented in the application.

[0131] In the first embodiment, an example in which the type of liquid in tank 62A is selected between "bleach" and "delicates detergent" has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the type of liquid in tank 62A may be other types of liquid, such as "detergent" or "fabric softener." The type of liquid may also be defined by other information that identifies the liquid.

[0132] In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the control unit 12 receives information on the type of liquid, the reference amount, ON / OFF of automatic dispensing, and the adjustment amount, but this is not limiting. The control unit 12 may receive only the type of liquid and the reference amount. The control unit 12 may also receive other information related to the automatic dispensing of liquid. For example, the control unit 12 may receive information on the timing of dispensing liquid in an operation course, the number of rotations of the drum, the temperature of the wash water, the amount of water supplied, and the operation time. The control unit 12 may also receive information on the brand of liquid, as will be described in Modification 1 below.

[0133] In the first embodiment, an example in which the input information is changeable has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when a specific type such as a disinfectant, a deodorant, a fragrance, laundry starch, and other laundry auxiliary is received, the control unit 12 may restrict the execution of the input information reception process. In this case, the control unit 12 may set default input information. The control unit 12 may gray out the input information display 73 on the operation display unit 14. By restricting the change of the input information, the effect of the liquid agent is more reliably exerted when using a liquid agent with a narrow range of input amounts to realize the effect of the liquid agent.

[0134] In the first embodiment, an example in which the storage unit 13 stores ON / OFF of automatic input has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as will be described in Modification 2 below, the storage unit 13 does not need to store ON / OFF of automatic input. In other words, the user inputs ON / OFF of automatic input for each operating course before executing the operating course.

[0135] In the first embodiment, when the control unit 12 receives the type of liquid in the liquid type reception process, the control unit 12 presents automatic supply OFF as the initial state for the liquid in the tank 62A. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the type of liquid is received in the liquid type reception process, the control unit 12 may present automatic supply ON as the initial state. In this case, the control unit 12 may present "standard" as the supply information. In addition, the control unit 12 may present "more" or "less" as the supply information.

[0136] (Variation 1) 11A to 11D are schematic diagrams of the operation display unit 114 in the first modification.

[0137] Unless otherwise specified, the configuration and operation of washing machine 1 in Modification 1 are common to the configuration and operation of washing machine 1 in Embodiment 1. The following describes the difference from Embodiment 1, that is, the fact that the brand can be accepted.

[0138] The user can input information on the brand of the liquid stored in the tank 62A by operating the operation display unit 114. A library of brand options is stored in the memory unit 13. The user can select and input the brand of the liquid stored in the tank 62A from the brand options stored in the memory unit 13. The control unit 12 can execute a brand reception process that can receive information on the brand of the liquid in response to the user's operation of the operation display unit 14. The control unit 12 sets the received brand in response to a predetermined operation by the user, and temporarily stores it in the memory unit 13 until it is updated.

[0139] 11A and 11B, the accepted brand is displayed on the operation display unit 14. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 11A, on a liquid input information screen D1, a tank display 70A displays the brand of the liquid stored in the tank 62A. As shown in Fig. 11B, on a tank 3 information screen D2, a type display 71 displays the brand of the liquid together with the type of the liquid.

[0140] When the liquid type reception process is executed, the control unit 12 sets the brand to an unset state. That is, the control unit 12 erases the set brand from the memory unit 13. As shown in Fig. 11C and Fig. 11D, the operation display unit 14 indicates that the brand is unset by not displaying the liquid brand on the liquid input information screen D1 and the tank 3 information screen D2.

[0141] By performing such an operation, the control unit 12 can be prevented from inheriting a brand that does not match the changed liquid formulation.

[0142] In addition, the brand reception process may involve inputting the brand of the liquid drug by operating an application stored in the user's smartphone instead of the operation display unit 14. In this case, the storage unit 13 may not store a library of brand options, and information such as the brand and a standard amount based on the brand may be obtained from the server.

[0143] When the liquid medicine type reception process is executed, the control unit 12 may maintain other information related to the automatic dispensing that has been set, and leave only the brand unset.

[0144] (Variation 2) 12A to 12D are schematic diagrams of the operation display unit 214 in the second modification.

[0145] Unless otherwise specified, the configuration and operation of washing machine 1 in Modification 2 are the same as those of washing machine 1 in Embodiment 1. The following describes the difference from Embodiment 1, that is, the point that the ON / OFF of the automatic loading is not stored.

[0146] In an operating course in which automatic dispensing of the liquid agent contained in the tank 62A is to be performed, the user switches the automatic dispensing from OFF to ON before the operating course is performed. After the operating course is performed, the control unit 12 switches the automatic dispensing to OFF. In other words, after the operating course is performed, the dispensing information that was set is erased from the memory unit 13.

[0147] Meanwhile, the control unit 12 can switch ON / OFF of the constant supply of the liquid agent contained in the tank 62A. When the constant supply is ON, the control unit 12 maintains the supply information ON even after the operation course is executed. When the constant supply is ON, the control unit 12 controls the pump mechanism 63A so as to supply the liquid agent contained in the tank 62A every time according to the operation course in which supply is possible. When the constant supply is OFF, the control unit 12 switches the supply information OFF after the operation course is executed.

[0148] 12A and 12B, when the control unit 12 switches the constant supply from OFF to ON, the words "always supply" are displayed on the operation display unit 14. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12A, on the liquid drug supply information screen D1, the tank display 70A displays "always supply". As shown in FIG. 12B, on the tank 3 information screen D2, the supply information display 73 displays "always supply" together with the adjustment amount.

[0149] When the liquid drug type reception process is executed, the control unit 12 turns off the continuous supply. As shown in Fig. 12C and Fig. 12D, by not displaying "Constant supply" on the liquid drug supply information screen D1 and the tank 3 information screen D2, it is shown that the continuous supply is OFF, and the OFF state of the continuous supply is presented.

[0150] This operation makes it easier to dispense the appropriate liquid after the change. In particular, when the type of liquid is changed to a liquid that may damage laundry, the risk of damage to laundry caused by dispensing the liquid without the user inputting the constant dispensing ON can be reduced.

[0151] When the liquid medicine type reception process is executed, the control unit 12 may present the constant input ON.

[0152] Although an example in which the liquid agent contained in the tank 62A can be switched between ON and OFF for continuous supply has been described, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the liquid agent contained in the other tanks 62B and 62C may be switched between ON and OFF for continuous supply.

[0153] (Variation 3) 13A and 13B are schematic diagrams of the operation display unit 14 in the third modification.

[0154] Unless otherwise specified, the configuration and operation of washing machine 1 in Modification 3 are common to the configuration and operation of washing machine 1 in Embodiment 1. The following describes the difference from Embodiment 1, that is, tank 3 information screen D12.

[0155] 13A, the tank 3 information screen D12 of the modified example 3 displays a type display 171 in addition to the input information and the reference amount. The type display 171 displays information received by the control unit 12 as the type of the liquid agent contained in the tank 62A. On the other hand, the tank 3 information screen D12 displays a decision button 174 but does not display a type change button 75.

[0156] When the user presses the type display 171, options 178 for the type of liquid medication are displayed. The options 178 display options for the type of liquid medication in a selectable manner. When the user presses a desired option, the control unit 12 accepts the type of liquid medication that has been pressed.

[0157] When the user presses the decision button 174, the control unit 12 sets the accepted type of liquid formulation together with the input information and the reference amount, and stores them in the memory unit 13.

[0158] (Embodiment 2) 14A and 14B are schematic diagrams of the operation display unit 314 according to the second embodiment.

[0159] Washing machine 1 in the second embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment in the configuration of operation display unit 314.

[0160] 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.

[0161] As shown in FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B, the operation display unit 314 has an operation unit 316 and a display unit 317 separately. The operation unit 316 has a plurality of physical buttons. The display unit 317 has a display such as an LCD. The display unit 317 has a default display, for example, capable of displaying only default characters. The control unit 12 can display information to the user, for example, by changing the lighting state of the display unit 317. The display unit 317 includes a liquid type display unit 317a that displays the type of the liquid contained in the tank 62A, and a reference amount display unit 317b that displays the reference amount of the liquid contained in the tank 62A.

[0162] In the second embodiment, when an initial value is determined in step S31 of the reference amount reception process, the control unit 12 presents the initial value by displaying the determined initial value on the reference amount display unit 317b.

[0163] Consider a case where the control unit 12 accepts a type of liquid as a delicate detergent as shown in Fig. 14A, and then the user changes the type of liquid and the control unit 12 accepts a type of liquid as a bleach agent as shown in Fig. 14B. When the control unit 12 accepts a type of liquid as a delicate detergent as shown in Fig. 14A, the control unit 12 causes the reference amount display unit 317b to display a reference amount (e.g., 30 mL). In this state, when the type of liquid is changed by the user to bleach as shown in Fig. 14B, the control unit 12 determines an initial value of the reference amount corresponding to bleach (e.g., 20 mL) and presents it by displaying it on the reference amount display unit 317b.

[0164] The user can change the reference amount from the initial value by operating the operation unit 316 provided on the operation display unit 314. Specifically, the user can change the reference amount within the changeable range determined in step S32 by operating the up and down buttons.

[0165] Furthermore, when presenting the initial state ("None") in step S42 of the input information reception process, the control unit 12 may present "None" by turning off all the text display of the display unit 317 showing the input information related to one tank. Specifically, in step S42, the control unit 12 changes the operation display unit 314 from a state in which "Much" is lit in the text display related to tank 3 as shown in Fig. 14A to a state in which all the text display is turned off as shown in Fig. 14B.

[0166] This operation makes it possible to prompt the user to input an appropriate reference amount in response to changes in the type of liquid formulation, even in a limited display where it is difficult to expand the options.

[0167] The washing machine in the first aspect includes a first tank for containing a liquid agent, a liquid agent dosing device for dosing the liquid agent contained in the first tank, and a control unit. The control unit is capable of executing a liquid agent type reception process for receiving information on the type of liquid agent contained in the first tank, and a reference amount reception process for receiving information on a reference amount of liquid agent to be dispensed contained in the first tank. When the control unit receives the type of liquid agent in the liquid agent type reception process, the control unit is capable of executing an initial value presentation step for presenting an initial value of the reference amount of liquid agent to be dispensed in the reference amount reception process.

[0168] In the washing machine of the second aspect, in the washing machine of the first aspect, in the initial value presentation step, the control unit presents an initial value of the standard amount of liquid to be dispensed based on information on the type of liquid received in the liquid type reception process.

[0169] As the washing machine in the third aspect, in the washing machine in the first or second aspect, in the reference amount receiving process, the control unit can execute a reference amount changing step capable of receiving a change of the input reference amount from an initial value.

[0170] As a washing machine in a fourth aspect, in the washing machine in the third aspect, in the standard amount changing step, the control unit determines the changeable range of the acceptable input standard amount based on information on the type of liquid received in the liquid type receiving process.

[0171] As a washing machine in a fifth aspect, in the washing machine in any of the first to fourth aspects, the control unit is capable of executing an adjustment amount reception process that can receive information on an adjustment amount relative to a standard amount of liquid to be dispensed, and determines a multiplier for the standard amount of liquid to be dispensed in the operation of the liquid dosage device based on the information on the type of liquid received in the liquid type reception process and the information on the adjustment amount received in the adjustment amount reception process.

[0172] As a washing machine in a sixth aspect, in the washing machine in the fifth aspect, when a first type is received as information on the type of liquid in the liquid type reception process, the control unit sets the multiplier to a first multiplier, and when a second type different from the first type is received as information on the type of liquid in the liquid type reception process, the control unit sets the multiplier to a second multiplier different from the first multiplier.

[0173] In the washing machine of the seventh aspect, in the washing machine of the fifth or sixth aspect, when the control unit receives the second type as information on the type of liquid in the liquid type receiving process, the control unit restricts the execution of the adjustment amount receiving process.

[0174] As a washing machine in an eighth aspect, in a washing machine in any of the first to seventh aspects, the control unit is capable of executing an input information reception process that can receive ON / OFF of automatic input of liquid contained in the first tank, and when information on the type of liquid is received in the liquid type reception process, it displays OFF of automatic input of liquid contained in the first tank.

[0175] As a washing machine in a ninth aspect, in the washing machine in any of the first to eighth aspects, the control unit is capable of executing a brand reception process that can receive information on the brand of the liquid contained in the first tank, and when information on the type of liquid is received in the liquid type reception process, the brand is set to an unset state.

[0176] In a washing machine in a 10th aspect, in a washing machine in any of the first to ninth aspects, the control unit can receive ON / OFF of a continuous dispensing mode in which the liquid stored in the first tank is dispensed every time a dispenseable course is selected, and when the type of liquid is received in the liquid type reception process, the control unit displays OFF of the continuous dispensing mode.

[0177] In the washing machine of the 11th aspect, in any one of the washing machines of the first to tenth aspects, the control unit is capable of executing an initial value presentation step when the type of liquid is changed in the liquid type reception process.

[0178] A method in a twelfth aspect is a method for controlling a washing machine, and includes executing a liquid type reception process capable of receiving information on the type of liquid contained in the first tank, and executing a reference amount reception process capable of receiving information on a reference amount to be dispensed by a liquid dosing device that dispenses the liquid contained in the first tank, and further includes, when information on the type of liquid is received in the liquid type reception process, executing an initial value presentation step of presenting an initial value of the reference amount to be dispensed in the reference amount reception process.

[0179] 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]

[0180] 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 is possible to execute settings related to automatic dispensing when changing the type of liquid to be automatically dispensed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0181] 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 61 cases 62A~62C Tank 63A~63C Pump mechanism 64 Liquid discharge flow path 70A Tank Display 71 types display 72 Reference amount display 73 Input information display 74 Decision button 75 Type change button 76 Bleach Label 77 Delicate laundry detergent label 78 Choices 79 Choices

Claims

1. A first tank for containing a liquid agent; a liquid agent supplying device that supplies the liquid agent contained in the first tank; A control unit; Equipped with The control unit is A liquid type reception process capable of receiving information on the type of the liquid contained in the first tank; a reference amount receiving process capable of receiving information on a reference amount of the liquid agent contained in the first tank; It is possible to execute The control unit, when receiving information on the type of liquid in the liquid type receiving process, is capable of executing an initial value presentation step of presenting an initial value of the input reference amount in the reference amount receiving process.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein in the initial value presentation step, the control unit presents the initial value of the reference input amount based on information on the type of the liquid received in the liquid type reception process.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein in the reference amount receiving process, the control unit is capable of executing a reference amount changing step capable of receiving a change of the input reference amount from the initial value.

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein in the reference amount changing step, the control unit determines a changeable range of the acceptable input reference amount based on information on the type of the liquid received in the liquid type receiving process.

5. The control unit is An adjustment amount receiving process can be executed to receive information on an adjustment amount relative to the input reference amount, The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a multiplier for the reference amount of liquid to be dispensed during operation of the liquid dispenser, based on information on the type of liquid received in the liquid type receiving process and information on the adjustment amount received in the adjustment amount receiving process.

6. The control unit is When a first type is received as information on the type of the liquid in the liquid type receiving process, the magnification is set to a first magnification; The washing machine according to claim 5, wherein when a second type different from the first type is received as information on the type of the liquid in the liquid type receiving process, the multiplier is set to a second multiplier different from the first multiplier.

7. The washing machine according to claim 5 , wherein the control unit, when receiving a second type as the information on the type of the liquid in the liquid type receiving process, limits execution of the adjustment amount receiving process.

8. The control unit is A supply information reception process is executed to receive ON / OFF of automatic supply of the liquid agent contained in the first tank, The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein when the information on the type of the liquid is received in the liquid type receiving process, a display is displayed indicating that automatic dispensing of the liquid contained in the first tank is OFF.

9. The control unit is A brand reception process is capable of receiving information on the brand of the liquid agent contained in the first tank, The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein when the information on the type of the liquid is received in the liquid type receiving process, the brand setting is set to an unset state.

10. The control unit is The liquid agent stored in the first tank is supplied every time according to a possible supply course, and a constant supply ON / OFF can be received; The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein when the type of liquid is accepted in the liquid type accepting process, a display is displayed indicating that the constant input is OFF.

11. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is capable of executing the initial value presenting step when the type of the liquid is changed in the liquid type receiving process.

12. 1. A method of controlling a washing machine, comprising: Executing a liquid type reception process capable of receiving information on the type of the liquid contained in the first tank; executing a reference amount receiving process capable of receiving information on a reference amount of the liquid agent to be dispensed by a liquid agent dispenser that dispenses the liquid agent contained in the first tank; Including, The method further includes, when information on the type of liquid is received in the liquid type reception process, executing an initial value presentation step of presenting an initial value of the input reference amount in the reference amount reception process.

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