Dishwasher

Abstract

To improve convenience of a dishwasher.SOLUTION: A dishwasher includes: a housing; a washing tank provided in the housing for storing objects to be washed; a detergent tank for storing a liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank; a detergent tank storage part for storing the detergent tank so as to freely take it in and out; and a magnetic sensor 41, which is a detection part for detecting whether or not the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage part. A floating body that floats in the liquid detergent is provided in the detergent tank, the floating body containing a magnetic body. The detection part can detect whether or not the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage part by detecting magnetism of the magnetic body, and can further detect a liquid level in the detergent tank by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 18

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher for washing items to be washed.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a built-in type dishwasher used in a built-in state in a system kitchen, a configuration in which a washing tub having a door portion that can be opened and closed forward is fixed in a housing has been mainstream.

[0003] However, in recent years, a dishwasher that pulls out a washing tub having an opening at the top from a housing to accommodate and wash tableware has become mainstream (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] The dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a washing tub having an opening at the top for accommodating tableware, a housing that supports the washing tub so as to be movable back and forth, a detergent inlet provided outside the washing tub for introducing detergent into the washing tub, and an introduction path that communicates the detergent inlet with the washing tub. Then, the detergent is introduced from a detergent inlet provided at a location independent of the washing tub. Thereby, the detergent can be surely introduced regardless of the size and shape of the tableware placed in the washing tub.

[0005] Also, a dishwasher having a detergent storage container in the washing tub is disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

[0006] The dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 2 has a detergent storage container that is detachably or integrally attached to the inner wall of the washing tub. The detergent storage container is attached at substantially the same height as, or above, a water supply port for washing water provided on the inner wall of the washing tub. Thereby, before starting the washing of tableware and the like, the risk of the detergent spilling, flowing out, or solidifying is prevented, and effective washing of tableware and the like is enabled.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007] Patent Document 1 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-135650 Patent Document 2 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-225087 Summary of the Invention Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] However, in the configuration of the dishwasher of Patent Document 1, when the detergent is poured from the upper opening, the detergent will directly flow down into the washing tank. That is, the conventional dishwasher cannot store the detergent. Therefore, when using the dishwasher, the user has to pour the necessary amount of detergent into the washing tank each time.

[0009] Therefore, as disclosed in Patent Document 2, it is conceivable to detachably attach a detergent container in the washing tank. However, the inventors have recognized the problem that there is a possibility of starting the washing with the detergent container removed.

[0010] The present disclosure solves the above conventional problems and aims to improve the convenience of the cleaning device. Means for Solving the Problems

[0011] The dishwasher in the present disclosure includes a housing, a washing tank provided in the housing for accommodating an object to be cleaned, a detergent tank for storing a liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank, a detergent tank storage portion for removably storing the detergent tank, and a detection portion for detecting whether the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage portion. A floating body floating in the liquid detergent is provided in the detergent tank, and the floating body contains a magnetic body. The detection portion can detect whether the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage portion by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body, and further detect the liquid level in the detergent tank by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body.

[0012] In addition, any combination of the above components, as well as those obtained by converting the expressions of the present disclosure among methods, apparatuses, systems, recording media, computer programs, etc., are also effective as aspects of the present invention.

Advantages of the Invention

[0013] According to the present disclosure, the convenience of the cleaning device can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0014]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, the schematic configuration of the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher with the washing tub 1 pulled out from the housing 2 in Embodiment 1. Specifically, FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of the washing tub 1 of the dishwasher pulled out from the housing 2 of the dishwasher.

[0017] Further, the dishwasher according to the first embodiment is an in-built dishwasher installed, for example, in a system kitchen or the like.

[0018] In addition, in the first embodiment, as shown in the figure, the forward direction is the direction in which the door body 3 and the washing tub 1 are pulled out, and the backward direction is the direction in which the washing tub 1 is stored and the door body 3 is closed, for the purpose of explanation. Also, the opening 1a side of the washing tub 1 of the dishwasher is defined as the upper side, the opposite side as the lower side, and further, when viewed from the front of the door body 3, the right side is defined as the rightward direction and the left side as the leftward direction. Hereinafter, the description will be made based on these definitions.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 1, the dishwasher according to the first embodiment includes a housing 2, a washing tub 1, side walls 12, a detergent tank 15, a control device 19 disposed inside the housing 2, and a door body 3 that opens and closes the opening of the housing 2.

[0020] The washing tub 1 has an opening 1a at the upper part, and a basket 7 for accommodating tableware 8 is disposed inside. The washing tub 1 is provided with a first rail 5 fixed to the lower part. On the other hand, the housing 2 is provided with a second rail 6 fixed to the inner side of the inner surface. The first rail 5 is movably supported by the second rail 6 of the housing 2. Thereby, the washing tub 1 is supported so as to be freely taken in and out of the housing 2 in the front-rear direction (the left-right direction on the paper surface of FIG. 1).

[0021] A flat surface portion 23 is disposed in front of the opening 1a which is the upper front part outside the washing tub 1. An operation portion 24, a display portion 25, and the like are disposed on the flat surface portion 23. The operation portion 24 is used to set the washing course, power on / off, etc. of the dishwasher by the operation of the user. The display portion 25 displays the washing status, operation status, time, etc. Also, an operation display substrate (not shown) for controlling their operations is disposed on the back side of the flat surface portion 23 where the operation portion 24 and the display portion 25 are disposed.

[0022] The side walls 12 are disposed on both sides between the washing tub 1 and the door body 3. The side walls 12 connect the washing tub 1 and the door body 3 so as to be integrally movable. At this time, the dishwasher has a front space portion 13 formed by being partitioned by the front side of the washing tub 1, the rear side of the door body 3, the side walls 12, and the flat surface portion 23.

[0023] The door body 3 is provided with a handle 4 which protrudes forward above. The handle 4 is used by the user to grip and take the washing tub 1 in and out of the housing 2.

[0024] Also, in the dishwasher of the first embodiment, washing water for washing the tableware in the washing tub 1 is supplied through the following route. Specifically, first, washing water such as tap water is supplied to a water supply route such as a water supply hose from a branch faucet or the like on a system kitchen (not shown). The supplied washing water passes through the water supply route, and water supply of the required water level and required amount is made into the washing tub 1 by a water supply pump, a water supply valve, etc. (not shown). The water is supplied into the washing tub 1 through the route configured as described above.

[0025] A circulation pump 9 is arranged below the outside of the washing tub 1. The circulation pump 9 circulates the washing water supplied into the washing tub 1 through a circulation route and injects the washing water from the washing nozzle 11. And the tableware 8 can be washed with the injected washing water. Note that a heater 10 for heating the washing water is also arranged near the bottom of the washing tub 1.

[0026] Also, the dishwasher of the first embodiment includes a drainage route for draining the washing water from the washing tub 1. The drainage route is composed of a drainage pump (not shown), a drainage hose, etc. When the washing and rinsing of the tableware 8 are completed, the drainage pump is driven, and the washing water is drained to the outside through the drainage hose. That is, the drainage route is configured to be able to drain the washing water in the washing tub 1 to a sink or the like in the system kitchen.

[0027] In a front space portion 13 which is in front of the outside of the washing tub 1, a detergent tank storage portion 14 for removably storing a detergent tank 15 is arranged. The detergent tank storage portion 14 is formed by welding, screwing, or integrally molding with one side of the side wall 12. Note that the detergent tank storage portion 14 may be provided on the front surface of the washing tub 1.

[0028] As described above, the dishwasher of the first embodiment is configured.

[0029] Next, the configuration around the detergent tank 15 of the dishwasher will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the state where the detergent tank 15 is being stored or pulled out. FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the state where the detergent tank 15 is stored.

[0031] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the detergent tank storage portion 14 has a hollow space. Thus, the detergent tank 15 is stored in and taken out of the space of the detergent tank storage portion 14 freely. The detergent tank 15 is stored so as to be freely taken out and put in, for example, in the left - right direction (sideways) when viewed from the front (the front side of the door body 3).

[0032] Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the detergent tank storage portion 14 is disposed substantially below (including below) the flat portion 23 (operation portion 24 or display portion 25), for example, on the right side from the central portion side of the washing tub 1, and stores the detergent tank 15.

[0033] In addition, in FIGS. 2 and 3, a configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out rightward from the detergent tank storage portion 14 is illustrated as an example, but it is not limited to this. For example, the detergent tank storage portion 14 and the detergent tank 15 may be arranged at positions symmetrically opposite to those in FIGS. 2 and 3. In this case, a configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out leftward from the detergent tank storage portion 14 is desirable.

[0034] With the above configuration, in a state where the washing tub 1 is completely stored in the housing 2, the detergent tank 15 is not conspicuous. Therefore, the dishwasher can be configured with a simple design. Furthermore, the space (front space portion 13) for storing the detergent tank 15 in front of the outside of the washing tub 1 can be effectively utilized.

[0035] Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the detergent tank 15 is configured to be able to be inserted and removed in the left - right direction from the detergent - tank storage portion 14 in a state where the detergent tank 15 is pulled out at least a distance a (dotted - line arrow in FIG. 1) or more forward from the cleaning tank 1. Note that the distance a indicates the shortest distance between the mating surface of the back surface of the door body 3 and the foremost surface of the housing 2 and the surface of the detergent - tank storage portion 14 on the side of the cleaning tank 1. That is, the distance a indicates a state where at least the entire detergent - tank storage portion 14 is pulled out forward of the foremost part of the housing 2.

[0036] With the above configuration, the insertion and removal of the detergent tank 15 becomes possible for the first time when the cleaning tank 1 is pulled out forward by a predetermined distance (distance a) or more. Therefore, by utilizing the space in front of the cleaning tank 1 for storing the detergent tank 15 and the lateral space when the cleaning tank 1 is pulled out from the housing 2, the user can easily insert and remove the detergent tank 15. Note that the distance a is not particularly limited as long as it allows the detergent tank 15 to be inserted and removed in the left - right direction.

[0037] Also, as described above, the dishwasher according to the first embodiment has an operation unit 24 provided at the upper front outside of the cleaning tank 1, where the user sets the cleaning course, turns the power on and off, etc. Thereby, the user can operate the operation unit 24 with one hand, for example, from the front and above the cleaning tank 1. At this time, simultaneously, the user can insert and remove the detergent tank 15 in the left - right direction with the other hand. As a result, the workability of the user can be improved.

[0038] Also, the detergent tank 15 is composed of, for example, a bottle - shaped container in which liquid detergent is stored. Specifically, the detergent tank 15 is composed of a detergent - tank detergent discharge port 15c, a detergent - tank detergent suction path 15d, a detergent - insertion lid portion 15e, etc.

[0039] The detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c, the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, and the detergent lid portion 15e are integrally formed and configured to be detachable from the detergent tank 15. Therefore, when the detergent lid portion 15e is removed from the detergent tank 15, the integrally formed detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c and the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d can also be removed from the detergent tank 15 at the same time. Note that the tip of the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d that sucks the liquid detergent extends to near the bottom surface of the detergent tank 15. Thereby, the liquid detergent can be sucked until it is almost gone from the detergent tank 15. Therefore, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 can be used efficiently without waste.

[0040] Also, when the user replenishes the liquid detergent into the detergent tank 15, first, the user removes the detergent tank 15 from the detergent tank storage portion 14. Then, the user removes the detergent lid portion 15e from the detergent tank 15. Thereby, the user can easily replenish the liquid detergent into the detergent tank 15.

[0041] With the configuration of the detergent tank 15 described above, the liquid detergent can be supplied and stocked in the detergent tank 15 outside the washing tub 1. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the solidification of the detergent in the detergent tank 15 due to moisture, drying, etc. inside the washing tub 1 during washing. Also, since the detergent tank 15 is not arranged, the volume of the washing tub 1 can be increased. Furthermore, the user can easily attach and detach the detergent tank 15. That is, conventionally, between the washing tub and the door body, a control board such as an operation unit and a display unit was arranged, and the space other than the board was dead space. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the detergent tank 15 is arranged side by side with the board in the dead space in the left - right direction. Thereby, the dead space is effectively utilized, and since the detergent tank 15 is not arranged in the washing tub 1, the volume of the washing tub 1 can be increased compared to the conventional washing tub.

[0042] Also, as shown in FIG. 2, the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c of the detergent tank 15 has a convex portion 15f that protrudes convexly to the left side from the detergent lid portion 15e. On the other hand, the detergent tank storage portion 14 has a concave portion 14c with which the convex portion 15f of the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c engages. Then, the concave portion 14c of the detergent tank storage portion 14 is engaged with the convex portion 15f of the detergent lid portion 15e. Thereby, the storage of the detergent tank 15 in the detergent tank storage portion 14 is completed.

[0043] And when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage portion 14 by the fitting of the concave portion 14c and the convex portion 15f, a path for transferring the liquid detergent from the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c to the detergent tank storage portion side detergent discharge path 14b is configured. Further, by the fitting of the convex portion 15f and the concave portion 14c, stable storage of the detergent tank 15 in the detergent tank storage portion 14 becomes possible.

[0044] Also, the detergent tank storage portion 14 includes a detergent tank storage portion detergent discharge port 14a provided in the concave portion 14c. One end of the detergent tank storage portion side detergent discharge path 14b is disposed and connected to the detergent tank storage portion detergent discharge port 14a. On the other hand, a detergent pump 16 is connected to the other end of the detergent tank storage portion side detergent discharge path 14b. Further, a cleaning tank side detergent discharge path 18 is connected between the detergent pump 16 and the cleaning tank detergent discharge port 17 (see FIG. 1) provided on the front surface of the cleaning tank 1. That is, the detergent pump 16 is disposed in the middle of the detergent input path between the other end of the detergent tank storage portion side detergent discharge path 14b and the cleaning tank side detergent discharge path 18.

[0045] As described above, the detergent tank 15 has a detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c that discharges the liquid detergent to the detergent tank storage portion side detergent discharge path 14b. And the detergent tank storage portion side detergent discharge path 14b is connected to the detergent tank storage portion 14. That is, when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage portion 14, the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c is configured to be connected to the detergent tank storage portion side detergent discharge path 14b.

[0046] Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the control device 19 is arranged below the front of the washing tub 1. The control device 19 controls the driving of, for example, the circulation pump 9, the drain pump, the water supply pump (water supply valve), the detergent pump 16, and the like.

[0047] Specifically, the control device 19 controls the driving rotation speed, driving time, etc. of the detergent pump 16. Thereby, when washing tableware 8 and the like, the necessary amount of liquid detergent is sucked from the detergent tank 15. The sucked liquid detergent passes through the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c, the detergent tank storage section detergent discharge port 14a, the detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path 14b, the detergent pump 16, the washing tub side detergent discharge path 18, and the washing tub detergent discharge port 17 in sequence and is supplied into the washing tub 1. That is, the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 is configured to be transferable and supplied to the washing tub 1.

[0048] As described above, the periphery of the detergent tank 15 of the dishwasher is configured such that the liquid detergent is supplied into the washing tub 1.

[0049] Next, the configuration of the dishwasher in another example of Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0050] FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher according to another example in a state where the washing tub 1 in Embodiment 1 is pulled out from the housing 2.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 4, the dishwasher according to another example has a transparent portion 15a provided at at least a part on the side surface of the detergent tank 15. The transparent portion 15a enables the user to visually check the remaining amount of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage portion 14. The transparent portion 15a further has a scale 15b indicating the amount of the liquid detergent. Thereby, even when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage portion 14, the user can visually confirm the amount of the detergent in the detergent tank 15 from the side through the transparent portion 15a. Therefore, the user can estimate visually the degree of decrease of the liquid detergent, the timing of replenishment, etc. As a result, the user can easily replenish the liquid detergent at an appropriate timing by pulling out the detergent tank 15.

[0052] (Embodiment 2) Hereinafter, the schematic configuration of the dishwasher according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

[0053] FIG. 5 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher with the detergent tank 15 stored therein according to Embodiment 2. FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of the dishwasher with the washing tub 1 pulled out from the housing 2 according to Embodiment 2.

[0054] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the dishwasher according to Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in the arrangement positions of the operation unit 24 and the display unit 25, and the configuration of the handle 4. Since the other configurations are the same as those in Embodiment 1, the description of the overlapping configurations will be omitted.

[0055] That is, as shown in FIG. 5, in the dishwasher according to Embodiment 2, the operation unit 24 and the display unit 25 are arranged at the upper front part of the door body 3. The handle 4 is formed in a shape that is recessed inward of the door body 3. The operation unit 24, as in Embodiment 1, is set for the washing course, turning on and off the power by the operation of the user. The display unit 25 displays the washing status, the operation status, the time, etc.

[0056] The operation unit 24 and the display unit 25 in the second embodiment are provided on the upper front side outside the washing tub 1 and on the front side of the door body 3. Thus, as in the first embodiment, the user can take in and out the detergent tank 15 from the left-right direction of the detergent tank storage unit 14 while operating the operation unit 24 from the front and above the washing tub 1, for example, simultaneously.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 6, either one of the operation unit 24 or the display unit 25 may be arranged on the flat surface portion 23 as in the first embodiment, and the other of the display unit 25 or the operation unit 24 may be arranged on the upper front surface of the door body 3.

[0058] Also, the description content of the first embodiment and the description content of the second embodiment may be freely combined within the described range to configure a dishwasher. Thereby, the degree of freedom in design, versatility, etc. can be enhanced.

[0059] (Third Embodiment) FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of the dishwasher according to the third embodiment. The dishwasher according to the third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in the configuration of the detergent tank storage unit and the detergent tank. Other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first or second embodiment. The points different from the first and second embodiments will be mainly described.

[0060] In order to suppress the waves generated in the liquid detergent when the detergent tank 30 is taken in and out with respect to the washing tub 1 or the housing 2, a float 34, which is an example of a floating body floating in the liquid detergent, is provided in the detergent tank 30. The float 34 is pivotally supported by a pivot shaft provided on the lid of the detergent tank 30 via an arm 33. A magnetic body 35 is provided on the float 34.

[0061] The detergent tank 30 is removably stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40. When the washing is started with the detergent tank 30 stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, an appropriate amount of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is sucked out by the detergent pump 16 and supplied into the washing tub 1 through the detergent discharge path 43 on the detergent tank storage unit side and the detergent discharge path 18 on the washing tub side.

[0062] On the side of the detergent tank storage part 40, a magnetic sensor 41 for detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 is provided. When the magnetic sensor 41 detects the magnetism of the magnetic body 35, it is detected that the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage part 40.

[0063] Figs. 8 to 11 are schematic front views of the dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. Fig. 8 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. Fig. 9 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage part 40 when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. Fig. 10 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. Fig. 11 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage part 40 when liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30.

[0064] The float 34 is pivotally supported via an arm 33 on a pivot shaft 32 provided on a cover 31 that covers the opening of the detergent tank 30. As shown in Figs. 8 and 9, when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30, the float 34 and the arm 33 hang vertically downward due to their own weights. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30, as shown in Figs. 10 and 11, the float 34 floats according to the liquid level of the liquid detergent, and the arm 33 rotates upward about the pivot shaft 32. By detecting the position of the magnetic body 35 with the magnetic sensor 41, the liquid level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 can be detected. Also, as shown in Figs. 9 and 11, when the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage part 40, since the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 is not detected by the magnetic sensor 41, it can be detected that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage part 40.

[0065] The magnetic sensor 41 may be, for example, a plurality of Hall elements provided in the vicinity of the position of the magnetic body 35 corresponding to a plurality of liquid levels of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30. Thereby, the liquid level of the liquid detergent can be detected more accurately. The magnetic sensor 41 may be a sensor capable of detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 by any method, such as a magnetoresistive effect element or a magnetic impedance element.

[0066] The magnetic sensor 41 may be provided on the side surface of the detergent tank storage unit 40 that is far from the control device 50. Thereby, the influence of the magnetic field generated in the electric circuit of the control device 50 can be reduced, and the detection accuracy of the magnetic sensor 41 can be improved.

[0067] A detergent discharge port 37 is provided at the lowermost end of the rear side surface in the insertion and extraction direction of the detergent tank 30. A detergent inlet 42 is provided at a position where the detergent discharge port 37 of the detergent tank 30 abuts when the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 in the detergent tank storage unit 40. When the detergent pump 16 operates, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 is supplied into the cleaning tank 1 through the detergent discharge port 37, the detergent inlet 42, the detergent discharge path 43 on the detergent tank storage unit side, and the detergent discharge path 18 on the cleaning tank side. The inner bottom surface 36 of the detergent tank 30 is inclined so as to be lower toward the detergent discharge port 37.

[0068] FIG. 12 is a partially enlarged view showing a state in which the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40. FIG. 12(a) is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 30 and the detergent tank storage unit 40 when the liquid level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 is low. FIG. 12(b) is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 30 and the detergent tank storage unit 40 when the liquid level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 is high. By detecting the position of the magnetic body 35 with the magnetic sensor 41, the liquid level of the liquid detergent can be detected.

[0069] FIG. 13 schematically shows a cross-section of the detergent tank 30. When the dishwasher 1 is pulled out from the housing 2 or the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage portion 40 while the liquid detergent 38 is stored in the detergent tank 30, waves are generated in the liquid detergent 38. In the dishwasher of the present embodiment, in order to cancel out these waves, a float 34 made of a material that floats on the liquid detergent 38 is provided. Experiments by the inventors have revealed that by floating the float 34 on the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 to cancel out the waves, the waves generated in the liquid detergent 38 can be suppressed as compared with the case where the float 34 is not provided. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 30 or adhering to surrounding members and solidifying during use of the dishwasher or when replenishing the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30.

[0070] The float 34 may be formed of a thermoplastic resin, metal, or the like. When the float 34 is formed of metal, a cavity may be provided inside in order for the float 34 to float on the liquid detergent. The float 34 and the arm 33 may be integrally formed or separately formed and joined. The arm 33 may be detachably pivotally supported on a pivot shaft 32 provided on the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30. In this case, the user can remove the arm 33 and the float 34 from the cover 31 and wash them. The arm 33 may be integrally formed with the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30.

[0071] FIG. 14 schematically shows a cross-section of the detergent tank 30. An air vent 39 communicating with the outside is provided in the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30. Since the cover 31 is provided to cover the opening of the detergent tank 30 in an airtight and liquid-tight manner, when the liquid detergent 38 is discharged from the detergent tank 30, the inside of the detergent tank 30 may become negative pressure, and the discharge of the liquid detergent 38 may not proceed smoothly. By providing the air vent 39, when the liquid detergent 38 is discharged from the detergent tank 30, outside air can flow into the detergent tank 30 through the air vent 39, so that the inside of the detergent tank 30 can be prevented from becoming negative pressure. Thereby, the reliability of the amount of the liquid detergent 38 supplied from the detergent tank 30 into the washing tub 1 can be improved.

[0072] When the liquid detergent 38 adheres to and solidifies on the air vent 39, the function of the air vent 39 to allow outside air to flow into the detergent tank 30 is reduced, and an appropriate amount of the liquid detergent 38 may not be supplied from the detergent tank 30 into the washing tub 1. To solve such a problem, in the dishwasher of the present embodiment, the air vent 39 is provided above the moving range of the float 34 in the cover 31. Thereby, even when the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 in the detergent tank 30 is high and the liquid detergent 38 is likely to splash from the liquid surface and reach the air vent 39, the float 34 floats on the liquid surface directly below the air vent 39 to cancel the wave of the liquid detergent 38, so that the liquid detergent 38 can be prevented from reaching the air vent 39.

[0073] FIG. 15 shows the lower surface of the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30. FIG. 15(a) is a bottom view of the cover 31. FIG. 15(b) is a perspective view of the lower surface of the cover 31. FIG. 15(c) is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the air release port 39. In the dishwasher of the present embodiment, a protruding portion 39a that protrudes from the lower surface of the cover 31 toward the inside of the detergent tank 30 is provided in the vicinity of the air release port 39. The protruding portion 39a functions as a wall for protecting the liquid detergent 38 that has splashed from the liquid level from reaching the air release port 39. Thereby, it is possible to further suppress the liquid detergent 38 from reaching the air release port 39. The protruding portion 39a may be integrally formed with the cover 31, or may be formed separately from the cover 31 and attached to the cover 31.

[0074] The protruding portion 39a is provided so that at least a part of the float 34 or the arm 33 is close to or in contact with the protruding portion 39a when the float 34 moves upward. When the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 in the detergent tank 30 is high, the possibility of the liquid detergent 38 reaching the air release port 39 increases. However, since the float 34 floats on the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 and the gap between the float 34 or the arm 33 and the protruding portion 39a narrows, it is possible to reduce the possibility of the liquid detergent 38 entering through the gap and reaching the air release port 39. The protruding portion 39a may be provided so as to be close to or in contact with at least a part of another member that moves with the float 34 when the float 34 moves upward.

[0075] The protruding portion 39a has a shape surrounding the air release port 39, and a notch 39b is provided in a part thereof. Thereby, when the liquid detergent 38 touches the protruding portion 39a, it is possible to suppress a film from being formed at the opening of the protruding portion 39a and the air release port 39 from being blocked by the film.

[0076] In the dishwasher of this embodiment, the washing tub 1 is provided so as to be insertable into and removable from the housing 2. Therefore, every time the washing tub 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2 to put in and take out the objects to be washed such as tableware, the liquid detergent 38 sways in the insertion and removal direction of the washing tub 1 to generate waves. Accordingly, the notch 39b may be provided in a direction different from the insertion and removal direction of the washing tub 1. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid detergent 38 from entering the inside of the protruding portion 39a from the notch 39b due to the waves of the liquid detergent 38 generated when the washing tub 1 is inserted and removed, and reaching the atmosphere opening 39.

[0077] In the dishwasher of this embodiment, the detergent tank 30 is provided so as to be insertable into and removable from the detergent tank storage portion 40. Therefore, every time the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage portion 40 to replenish the liquid detergent, the liquid detergent 38 sways in the insertion and removal direction of the detergent tank 30 to generate waves. Accordingly, the notch 39b may be provided in a direction different from the insertion and removal direction of the detergent tank 30. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid detergent 38 from entering the inside of the protruding portion 39a from the notch 39b due to the waves of the liquid detergent 38 generated when the detergent tank 30 is inserted and removed, and reaching the atmosphere opening 39.

[0078] The notch 39b may be provided on the side of the rotation shaft 32 on which the arm 33 is pivotally supported. When the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 is high, the float 34 floats on the liquid surface, causing the arm 33 to move upward. Therefore, the space between the protruding portion 39a and the rotation shaft 32 is separated from the liquid detergent 38 by the protruding portion 39a, the rotation shaft 32, and the arm 33. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the liquid detergent 38 from entering the inside of the protruding portion 39a from the notch 39b and reaching the atmosphere opening 39.

[0079] FIG. 16 schematically shows the relationship between the arm 33 and the rotation shaft 32. The rotation shaft 32 has a cylindrical shape. The arm 33 has a fitting portion 33a at its upper end that fits onto the cylindrical rotation shaft 32. The fitting portion 33a has a cylindrical shape with a part of the angle range on the side surface cut out in the axial direction. By providing the notch portion 33b, the arm 33 can be removed from the rotation shaft 32 for cleaning, so that it is possible to prevent liquid detergent from adhering between the fitting portion 33a and the rotation shaft 32 and solidifying, which would cause the float 34 to stop functioning. Also, the inside of the detergent tank 30 can be kept clean. When manufacturing the dishwasher, the arm 33 can be easily attached to the rotation shaft 32, so the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

[0080] Even by the method of moving the float along a guide provided in the vertical direction, it is possible to detect the liquid level of the liquid detergent and there is a possibility of obtaining a wave damping effect. However, when using a liquid detergent with high viscosity, the sliding resistance between the guide and the float increases, so there is a possibility that the float will have difficulty following the fluctuations in the liquid level. Also, when the liquid level of the liquid detergent drops, the liquid detergent adhering between the guide and the float may solidify and cause the float to stop moving. Furthermore, when the depth of the detergent tank is shallow, the moving range of the float is narrow, so the liquid level cannot be detected finely. According to the configuration of the present embodiment, the arm 33 is pivotally supported by the rotation shaft 32 provided above the liquid surface of the liquid detergent, and the float 34 is rotated according to the liquid level. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the float 34 will stop moving due to the solidification of the liquid detergent between the rotation shaft 32 and the arm 33. Also, since the float 34 is displaced both horizontally and vertically according to the liquid level, the liquid level can be detected more accurately.

[0081] FIG. 17 schematically shows a cross section of the arm 33 and the rotating shaft 32. FIG. 17(a) shows a cross section of the arm 33 and the rotating shaft 32 when the liquid level of the liquid detergent is at its highest. FIG. 17(b) shows a cross section of the arm 33 and the rotating shaft 32 when the liquid detergent is empty. In the entire range of the liquid level of the liquid detergent, when the arm 33 rotates around the rotating shaft 32 according to the liquid level, the notch 33b is configured to face upward from the horizontal direction. Thereby, it is possible to further reduce the possibility that the liquid detergent splashed from the liquid surface enters between the arm 33 and the rotating shaft 32 through the notch 33b and solidifies.

[0082] In the dishwasher according to the present embodiment, the rotating shaft 32 is provided parallel to the direction in which the washing tub 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2, and the float 34 is configured to rotate in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the washing tub 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2. Thereby, when the washing tub 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2, the waves generated in the insertion and removal direction can be effectively canceled by the float 34, so that it is possible to suppress the adhesion of the liquid detergent to the air opening 39, the rotating shaft 32, the fitting portion 33a of the arm 33, and the like. Also, when the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage portion 40, the waves generated in the insertion and removal direction can be canceled by the float 34, so that it is possible to suppress the adhesion of the liquid detergent to the air opening 39, the rotating shaft 32, the fitting portion 33a of the arm 33, and the like.

[0083] In another example, a rotation shaft 32 may be provided parallel to the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 40, and the float 34 may be configured to rotate in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 40. Thereby, when the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 40, the waves generated in the insertion and removal direction can be effectively canceled by the float 34, so that it is possible to suppress the adhesion of the liquid detergent to the air opening 39, the rotation shaft 32, the fitting portion 33a of the arm 33, etc., and to suppress the liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 30 when the user replenishes the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30. Also, when the washing tub 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2, the waves generated in the insertion and removal direction can be canceled by the float 34, so that it is possible to suppress the adhesion of the liquid detergent to the air opening 39, the rotation shaft 32, the fitting portion 33a of the arm 33, etc.

[0084] FIG. 18 shows the configuration of a control device for controlling the dishwasher according to the embodiment. The control device 50 is realized by hardware such as a microcomputer, a microcontroller, and an integrated circuit.

[0085] The control device 50 includes a process control unit 51, a detection result acquisition unit 52, a liquid level determination unit 53, a detergent tank storage determination unit 54, a liquid feeding control unit 55, a notification unit 56, a placement time acquisition unit 57, a liquid feeding target amount determination unit 58, and a memory 59. These configurations are realized by the CPU, memory, and other LSIs of an arbitrary computer in terms of hardware, and are realized by a program loaded in the memory in terms of software, but here, functional blocks realized by their cooperation are depicted. Therefore, it is understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be realized in various forms, such as only by hardware or a combination of hardware and software.

[0086] The process control unit 51 controls the cleaning operation by the dishwasher. The process control unit 51 receives an instruction from the user via the operation unit 24 of the dishwasher and controls the cleaning operation according to the instruction. The process control unit 51 may continuously execute the cleaning process, the rinsing process, and the drying process, or may execute only any one of the processes, or may execute a combination of any two or more processes in an arbitrary order.

[0087] The detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires the detection result from the magnetic sensor 41 by the magnetic sensor 41. As described above, the magnetic sensor 41 detects the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 provided on the float 34.

[0088] The liquid level determination unit 53 determines the liquid level of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 based on the detection result acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 52. The liquid level determination unit 53 may, for example, determine the position of the magnetic body 35 based on the magnetism detected by a plurality of hall elements having different installation positions, and determine the liquid level of the liquid detergent based on the determined position of the magnetic body 35.

[0089] The detergent tank accommodation determination unit 54 determines whether or not the detergent tank 30 is accommodated in the detergent tank accommodation unit 40 based on the detection result acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 52. The detergent tank accommodation determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is accommodated in the detergent tank accommodation unit 40 when a detection result indicating that the magnetic sensor 41 has detected the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 is acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 52. The detergent tank accommodation determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not accommodated in the detergent tank accommodation unit 40 when a detection result indicating that the magnetic sensor 41 has not detected the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 is acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 52.

[0090] The liquid supply control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to supply the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1. As will be described later, the liquid supply control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 so that the amount of liquid detergent determined by the liquid supply target amount determination unit 58 is supplied to the cleaning tank 1. When the supply of the liquid detergent in the amount determined by the liquid supply target amount determination unit 58 is completed, the liquid supply control unit 55 records the liquid supply end time in the memory 59.

[0091] When the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, the liquid supply control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 so as not to supply the liquid detergent from the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the cleaning process from being executed without the detergent being supplied to the cleaning tank 1. In addition, air can be sent into the flow path of the liquid detergent from the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1, preventing the detergent in the target amount of liquid supply from not being properly supplied to the cleaning tank 1 when cleaning is executed after the next time.

[0092] When the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, the notification unit 56 notifies the user to that effect. The notification unit 56 may notify the user by voice that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, or may display it on the display unit 25. Thereby, even when the user starts cleaning without properly storing the detergent tank 30 in the detergent tank storage unit 40 by mistake, the detergent tank 30 can be stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40.

[0093] The placement time acquisition unit 57 calculates the elapsed time since the last supply of the liquid detergent to the washing tub 1 by the detergent pump 16, thereby acquiring the time during which the detergent pump 16 and the flow path of the liquid detergent were left unused. The placement time acquisition unit 57 reads the previous liquid delivery end time from the memory 59 and calculates the elapsed time until the current time. The placement time acquisition unit 57 may count the elapsed time from the previous liquid delivery end time using a counter circuit or the like. The placement time acquisition unit 57 may also acquire information indicating the previous liquid delivery end time or the placement time from an external server or the like.

[0094] When the liquid detergent used in the dishwasher is left for a long time, it thickens due to oxidation by oxygen in the air or the like. FIG. 19 shows the viscosity of the liquid detergent measured by a rotational viscometer. The viscosity of the liquid detergent measured after being left for 3 months increased slightly from the initial value, but the viscosity of the liquid detergent measured after being left for 6 months increased significantly from the initial value. Therefore, when the dishwasher is used again after being left unused for a long time after being used, the liquid detergent remaining in the flow path including the detergent pump 16 thickens or solidifies, resulting in poor flow, and there is a possibility that the detergent pump 16 cannot supply a specified amount of detergent to the washing tub 1.

[0095] Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the placement time is longer than a predetermined threshold value, the target liquid delivery amount of the liquid detergent is increased from the specified amount, thereby increasing the driving time, driving frequency, driving voltage, etc. of the detergent pump 16 more than usual. As a result, it is possible to compensate for the decrease in the liquid delivery amount due to the thickening of the liquid detergent, so that an appropriate amount of the liquid detergent can be supplied to the washing tub 1.

[0096] The liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58 determines the liquid delivery target amount when supplying the liquid detergent to the cleaning tank 1. When the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition unit 57 is shorter than the first threshold value, the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58 determines the liquid delivery target amount according to the operation mode of the cleaning process, the type of the liquid detergent, the type and amount of the object to be cleaned, the water temperature, the air temperature, etc. When the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition unit 57 is longer than the first threshold value, the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58 adds a predetermined amount to the normal liquid delivery target amount determined as described above. The additional amount may be determined according to the standing time, the season of the standing period, the air temperature, the humidity, etc. For example, as the standing time is longer and the air temperature or humidity during the standing period is lower, it is considered that the degree of thickening of the liquid detergent is higher, so the additional amount may be increased.

[0097] The liquid delivery control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to deliver the liquid detergent with the liquid delivery target amount determined by the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58. The liquid delivery control unit 55 determines the driving time, the driving frequency, and the driving voltage of the detergent pump 16 according to the liquid delivery target amount, and controls the detergent pump 16.

[0098] When the liquid detergent is left unused for a time longer than the first threshold value, the period during which the liquid detergent delivery target amount determination unit 58 increases the liquid detergent delivery target amount may be only once immediately afterwards, may be a predetermined number of times, or may be until it is detected that the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 has been substantially used up and the detergent tank 30 has become almost empty. Depending on the length of the idle time, it may be determined which of the above periods to adopt. For example, when the idle time is relatively short, by delivering the liquid detergent once, it is expected that the thickened liquid detergent remaining in the flow path will flow out into the cleaning tank 1, so the delivery target amount may be increased only once immediately afterwards. When the idle time is relatively long, it is considered that several deliveries are required until the thickened liquid detergent remaining in the flow path flows out into the cleaning tank 1, so the delivery target amount may be increased over a predetermined number of times immediately afterwards. When the idle time is even longer, it is considered that the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 has also thickened, so the delivery target amount may be increased until the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 has been substantially used up. Whether the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 has been substantially used up may be determined based on the liquid level of the liquid detergent determined by the liquid level determination unit 53.

[0099] The liquid detergent delivery target amount determination unit 58 may further determine the liquid detergent delivery target amount based on the elapsed time since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30. When the elapsed time since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30 is longer than a predetermined threshold value, the liquid detergent delivery target amount determination unit 58 may increase the liquid detergent delivery target amount in order to compensate for the decrease in the delivery amount due to the thickening of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30. In this case, the time when the liquid level determination unit 53 determines that the liquid level of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 has reached the full level is recorded in the memory 59, and the liquid detergent delivery target amount determination unit 58 may calculate the elapsed time with reference to the time recorded in the memory 59.

[0100] The liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58 may determine the liquid delivery target amount based further on the liquid level of the liquid detergent determined by the liquid level determination unit 53. When the difference between the target liquid level obtained by subtracting the cumulative liquid delivery target amount from the first time point to the second time point, for example, when the liquid level of the liquid detergent determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 is at the full level, from the liquid level determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 at the first time point, and the actual liquid level determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 at the second time point is greater than a predetermined value, the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58 determines that the actually delivered amount of the liquid detergent is significantly deviated from the liquid delivery target amount, and may adjust the liquid delivery target amount according to the difference between the target liquid level and the actual liquid level. For example, when the target liquid level is higher than the actual liquid level by a predetermined value or more, the liquid delivery target amount may be increased. The liquid delivery target amount for calculating the difference between the target liquid level and the actual liquid level may be the value before being increased by the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58.

[0101] When the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition unit 57 is longer than the second threshold value, or when the elapsed time since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30 is longer than a predetermined threshold value, the liquid delivery control unit 55 may discard the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30. In this case, the liquid delivery control unit 55 may supply all the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1, then supply water into the cleaning tank 1, and discharge the liquid detergent together with the water. At this time, the notification unit 56 may notify the user that the liquid detergent is to be discarded. Thereby, it is possible to prevent washing an object to be washed with the liquid detergent that has been stored in the detergent tank 30 for a long time and may be deteriorated due to oxidation or the like.

[0102] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the control method of the dishwasher according to the embodiment. The flowchart shown in FIG. 20 shows the procedure before the cleaning process is started in the dishwasher. When the cleaning process is started by the process control unit 51 (S10), the detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires the detection result from the magnetic sensor 41, and the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines whether or not the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 based on the detection result (S12). If the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 (N in S12), the notification unit 56 notifies the user to that effect (S14), and returns to S12. If the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 (Y in S12), the process control unit 51 executes the cleaning process (S16).

[0103] FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the control method of the dishwasher according to the embodiment. The flowchart shown in FIG. 21 shows the procedure of the cleaning process executed in the dishwasher. The standing time acquisition unit 57 reads the previous liquid feeding end time from the memory 59 (S20) and calculates the standing time (S21). If the standing time is greater than the second threshold value t2 (Y in S22), the liquid feeding control unit 55 feeds all the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1 (S24), supplies water into the cleaning tank 1 and discharges it together with the liquid detergent (S26), and ends the cleaning process.

[0104] If the standing time is less than or equal to the second threshold value t2 (N in S22), the liquid feeding target amount determination unit 58 determines the normal liquid feeding target amount (S28). If the standing time is greater than the first threshold value t1 (Y in S30), the liquid feeding target amount determination unit 58 increases the liquid feeding target amount (S32). If the standing time is less than or equal to the first threshold value t1 (N in S30), S32 is skipped and the liquid feeding target amount is not changed. The liquid feeding control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to feed the liquid detergent of the liquid feeding target amount to the cleaning tank 1 (S34), and records the liquid feeding end time in the memory 59 when the liquid feeding is completed (S36). The process control unit 51 executes the cleaning process (S38).

[0105] FIG. 22 schematically shows another example of the detergent tank 30. FIG. 22(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the detergent tank 30, and FIG. 22(b) is a schematic side view of the detergent tank 30 seen from the back side in the inserting / removing direction. A detergent discharge port 71 is provided at the lowermost end of the side surface on the back side in the inserting / removing direction of the detergent tank 30. The detergent discharge port 71 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and a foreign matter capturing portion 70 for capturing foreign matter mixed in the detergent tank 30 is inserted into the internal cavity. An O-ring 72 is provided between the foreign matter capturing portion 70 and the detergent discharge port 71. Thereby, the space between the foreign matter capturing portion 70 and the detergent discharge port 71 is fixed in a liquid-tight manner. The liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is discharged from a flow path 73 provided inside the foreign matter capturing portion 70.

[0106] The inner end of the foreign matter capturing portion 70 inside the detergent tank 30 has an outer diameter smaller than the inner opening of the detergent discharge port 71, and the outer end has an outer diameter larger than the outer opening of the detergent discharge port 71. Therefore, the foreign matter capturing portion 70 is detachably inserted into the detergent discharge port 71 from the outside of the detergent tank 30. Since the foreign matter capturing portion 70 is fixed to the detergent discharge port 71 only by the sliding resistance of the O-ring 72, the user can easily remove the foreign matter capturing portion 70 by simply pushing the foreign matter capturing portion 70 outward from the inside of the detergent tank 30 as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 22(a). Also, the foreign matter capturing portion 70 can be easily attached by simply pushing it into the detergent discharge port 71 from the outside of the detergent tank 30. Thereby, the foreign matter capturing portion 70 can be easily attached and detached to wash away the detergent discharge port 71 and its periphery, so that the foreign matter captured by the foreign matter capturing portion 70 can be easily removed.

[0107] FIG. 23 schematically shows a cross-section of the foreign matter capturing portion 70. The foreign matter capturing portion 70 includes a cover 76 having a substantially cylindrical shape, a throttle portion 74 connected to an end of the cover 76, and a valve body 80 provided in a cavity inside the cover 76. A groove portion 78 is provided at the central portion of the cover 76, and an O-ring 72 is provided outside the groove portion 78. A throttle opening 75 is provided near the connection portion of the throttle portion 74 with the cover 76, and a cover opening 77 is provided near the connection portion of the cover 76 with the throttle portion 74. The liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 flows into the inside of the cover 76 through the throttle opening 75 and the cover opening 77. The valve body 80 is biased in the left direction in the drawing by a biasing spring 81. At this time, since the valve body 80 is pressed against the inside of the groove portion 78 and the space between the valve body 80 and the cover 76 is liquid-tightly sealed by a seal member 82, the liquid detergent does not flow out into the flow path 73.

[0108] FIG. 24 schematically shows a state in which the foreign matter capturing portion 70 is attached to the detergent discharge port 71. FIG. 24(a) shows a cross-section when the foreign matter capturing portion 70 is attached to the detergent discharge port. FIG. 24(b) is a partially enlarged view of the rectangular portion in FIG. 24(a). FIG. 24(c) is a side view of the foreign matter capturing portion 70 as viewed from inside the detergent tank 30. FIG. 24(d) is a side view of another example of the throttle portion 74 of the foreign matter capturing portion 70. FIG. 24 shows a state in which the valve body 80 is open, and the opening and closing of the valve body 80 will be described later.

[0109] When the foreign matter capturing part 70 is attached to the detergent discharge port 71, the gap d between the outside of the main body of the foreign matter capturing part 70 and the inner opening of the detergent discharge port 71 is configured to be smaller than the inner diameter of the flow path of the liquid detergent from the throttle part opening 75 to the cleaning tank 1. The flow path of the liquid detergent from the throttle part opening 75 to the cleaning tank 1 includes the cover opening 77, the flow path between the valve body 80 and the cover 76 when the valve body 80 is open, the flow path 73, the outer opening of the detergent discharge port 71, the detergent discharge path 43 on the detergent tank storage part side, the flow path in the detergent pump 16, the detergent discharge path 18 on the cleaning tank side, and the cleaning tank detergent discharge port 17. When the liquid detergent is sent from the detergent tank 30 to the cleaning tank 1 by the detergent pump 16, foreign matter larger than the gap d in the detergent tank 30 cannot pass through the gap d, so it stays in the detergent tank 30. Foreign matter smaller than the gap d and capable of passing through the gap d flows to the cleaning tank 1 without clogging the intermediate flow path. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the flow path of the liquid detergent from the detergent discharge port 71 to the cleaning tank 1 from being clogged with foreign matter. The foreign matter that stays in the detergent tank 30 without passing through the gap d can be easily washed away and removed by removing the foreign matter capturing part 70.

[0110] In the example shown in FIG. 24(c), the liquid detergent flows into the inside of the foreign matter capturing part 70 only from the gap d formed in a concentric annular shape and is discharged from the detergent discharge port 71. The gap d functions as a flow path for capturing foreign matter in the detergent tank 30.

[0111] In the example shown in FIG. 24(d), in addition to the gap d, the liquid detergent can also flow into the inside of the foreign matter trapping portion 70 from the holes 83 provided in the throttle portion 74. The diameter of the holes 83 is also configured to be smaller than the diameter of the flow path of the liquid detergent from the detergent discharge port 71 to the cleaning tank 1. That is, the holes 83 also function as a flow path for trapping foreign matter. Foreign matter larger than the holes 83 cannot pass through the holes 83 and thus remains in the detergent tank 30. Foreign matter smaller than the holes 83 and capable of passing through the holes 83 flows to the cleaning tank 1 without clogging the flow path. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the flow path of the liquid detergent from the detergent discharge port 71 to the cleaning tank 1 from being clogged with foreign matter. Foreign matter adhering to the periphery of the holes 83 without passing through the holes 83 can be easily removed by removing and washing the foreign matter trapping portion 70.

[0112] By further providing the holes 83, the cross-sectional area of the flow path of the liquid detergent can be increased, so that the pressure loss can be reduced and the negative pressure generated when the liquid detergent is sucked out by the detergent pump 16 can be reduced. In addition, since the portion through which the liquid detergent can pass can be increased, even if a part is blocked by foreign matter, the influence of clogging can be reduced. Therefore, the liquid feeding performance and reliability of the liquid detergent can be maintained well.

[0113] FIG. 25 schematically shows a cross-section when the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage portion 40. A rib 45 is provided at the tip of the elbow 44 that constitutes the detergent discharge path 43 on the detergent tank storage portion side. When the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage portion 40, the rib 45 is inserted into the flow path 73 of the foreign matter trapping portion 70 and pushes the valve body 80. Thereby, the valve body 80 is opened and the liquid detergent can flow into the flow path 73. While the detergent tank 30 is removed from the detergent tank storage portion 40, the valve body 80 is pressed against the groove portion 78 by the biasing spring 81, and the flow path between the valve body 80 and the cover 76 is closed, so that the liquid detergent stored inside can be prevented from leaking from the detergent discharge port 71.

[0114] In the above embodiment, an example in which the foreign matter capturing unit 70 has a foreign matter capturing flow path for capturing foreign matter has been described. However, the foreign matter capturing unit 70 may have a filter or the like for capturing foreign matter. Also in this case, the foreign matter capturing unit 70 may be detachably provided in the outer direction of the detergent tank 30. Thereby, the filter can be easily removed to remove foreign matter.

[0115] As described above, the present disclosure has been described based on examples. It is understood by those skilled in the art that these examples are illustrative, and various modifications are possible for each combination of these components and each processing process, and such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0116] In the embodiment, an example in which the washing tub 1 having an opening at the upper side is provided so as to be able to be taken in and out in the front-rear direction from the housing 2 having a front opening at the front has been shown. However, in another example, the opening / closing door of the washing tub 1 may be provided above the washing tub 1. In this case, the washing tub 1 may be provided so as to be able to be taken in and out in the front-rear direction from the housing 2, or may be fixedly housed inside the housing 2.

[0117] In the embodiment, an example in which the dishwasher is housed inside the kitchen has been shown. However, in another example, the dishwasher may be configured as an independent device.

[0118] In the embodiment, a dishwasher for washing objects to be washed such as tableware has been described. However, the technology of the present disclosure is also applicable to a washing machine for washing clothes and the like, a cleaning device for washing other objects to be washed, and the like.

Industrial Applicability

[0119] The present invention can be used for a cleaning device for cleaning an object to be cleaned.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0120] 1 Washing tank, 1a Opening, 2 Housing, 3 Door body, 4 Handle, 5 First rail, 6 Second rail, 8 Tableware, 9 Circulation pump, 10 Heater, 11 Washing nozzle, 12 Side wall, 13 Front space part, 14 Detergent tank storage part, 14a Detergent tank storage part detergent discharge port, 14b Detergent tank storage part side detergent discharge path, 14c Recess, 15 Detergent tank, 15a Transparent part, 15c Detergent tank detergent discharge port, 15d Detergent tank detergent suction path, 15e Cover part, 15f Protrusion, 16 Detergent pump, 17 Washing tank detergent discharge port, 18 Washing tank side detergent discharge path, 19 Control device, 23 Flat part, 24 Operation part, 25 Display part, 30 Detergent tank, 31 Cover, 32 Rotation shaft, 33 Arm, 33a Fitting part, 33b Notch, 34 Float, 35 Magnetic body, 36 Inner bottom surface, 37 Detergent discharge port, 38 Liquid detergent, 39 Atmosphere release port, 39a Protrusion part, 39b Notch, 40 Detergent tank storage part, 41 Magnetic sensor, 42 Detergent inlet, 43 Detergent tank storage part side detergent discharge path, 44 Elbow, 45 Rib, 50 Control device, 51 Process control part, 52 Detection result acquisition part, 53 Liquid level determination part, 54 Detergent tank storage determination part, 55 Liquid feeding control part, 56 Notification part, 57 Placing time acquisition part, 58 Liquid feeding target amount determination part, 59 Memory, 70 Foreign object capture part, 71 Detergent discharge port, 72 O-ring, 73 Flow path, 74 Throttle part, 75 Throttle part opening, 76 Cover, 77 Cover opening, 78 Groove part, 80 Valve body, 81 Biasing spring, 82 Seal member, 83 Hole.

Claims

1. A housing and A cleaning tank provided in the housing and configured to accommodate an object to be cleaned; a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tank; a detergent tank storage section for storing the detergent tank so as to be freely inserted and removed; a detection unit for detecting whether the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage unit, A float that floats in the liquid detergent is provided in the detergent tank, the float including a magnetic material, The detection unit detects whether the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage unit by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body, and is further capable of detecting the liquid level in the detergent tank by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body. dishwasher.

2. a detergent delivery unit that delivers the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank to the cleaning tank; A control unit that controls the liquid detergent delivery unit to deliver the liquid detergent; Further comprising: The control unit controls the detergent liquid delivery unit not to deliver the liquid detergent from the detergent tank to the washing tub when the detection unit detects that the detergent tank is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1.

3. The cleaning tank is provided so as to be freely inserted and removed from the housing.

3. A dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2.

Images