Dishwasher and dishwasher control method

Abstract

To provide a dishwasher and dishwasher control method for shortening a washing time.SOLUTION: A dishwasher includes: a washing tub for storing washed objects; a water supply section for supplying water to the washing tub; a water amount detection section for detecting the water amount of washing water being supplied to the washing tub; a washing pump for jetting the washing water to the washing tub; and a draining part for draining water from the washing tub. The dishwasher performs a washing operation including: a washing process for jetting the washing water by the washing pump; and a rinsing process after the washing process. When the washing process is started, the water supply part supplies water. The washing pump performs jetting by first jetting pressure after the water amount of the washing water reaches the first water amount. After the amount of the washing water reaches the second water amount greater than the first water amount, the washing pump performs jetting by second jetting pressure higher than the first jetting pressure.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher and a method for controlling a dishwasher. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a dishwasher that includes a gas-fired water heater and a hot water storage tank that stores hot water boiled by the water heater, and that washes dishes by sending the hot water from the hot water storage tank to a wash water spraying means. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-5169 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides a dishwasher and a method for controlling the dishwasher that can reduce washing time. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The dishwasher of the present disclosure comprises a washing tank in which items to be washed are accommodated, a water supply unit that supplies water to the washing tank, a water volume detection unit that detects the volume of washing water supplied to the washing tank, a washing pump that sprays the washing water into the washing tank, and a drainage unit that drains the water from the washing tank, and performs washing operations including a washing process in which the washing water is sprayed by the washing pump and a rinsing process after the washing process, supplies water from the water supply unit when starting the washing process, sprays the washing water at a first spray pressure after the volume of the washing water reaches a first volume, and sprays the washing pump at a second spray pressure that is higher than the first spray pressure after the volume of the washing water reaches a second volume that is higher than the first volume.

[0006] In addition, a dishwasher control method in the present disclosure is a dishwasher that has a washing tank in which items to be washed are stored and that performs washing operations including a washing process in which washing water is sprayed into the washing tank by a washing pump and a rinsing process after the washing process, in which, when starting the washing process, the water supply unit starts supplying water to the washing tank, and after the amount of washing water reaches a first amount, the washing pump sprays at a first spray pressure, and after the amount of washing water reaches a second amount that is greater than the first amount, the washing pump sprays at a second spray pressure that is higher than the first spray pressure.

[0007] In addition, the dishwasher of the present disclosure comprises a washing tank in which items to be washed are stored, a water supply unit that supplies water to the washing tank, a water volume detection unit that detects the volume of washing water supplied to the washing tank, a washing pump that sprays the washing water into the washing tank, and a drain unit that drains the water from the washing tank, and is equipped with a rinse course that performs a rinsing operation including a rinsing step in which the washing water is sprayed by the washing pump, and a finishing rinse step that follows the rinsing step, and in the rinsing step, rinsing control is performed multiple times while the washing pump is continuously driven, in which the drain unit is operated to drain at least some of the water in the washing tank and water is supplied by the water supply unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The dishwasher and dishwasher control method disclosed herein operate the wash pump at a low injection pressure before the water supply is completed to start the wash, and then operate the wash pump at a high injection pressure after a sufficient amount of water has been supplied. This allows the wash to start without waiting until the water supply is completed, thereby shortening the wash time. The dishwasher also includes a course that starts with a rinse operation. This allows the rinse to be performed for a short period of time when the wash is not required, thereby shortening the wash time. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] Schematic cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2]Block diagram of a control system of a dishwasher according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a flowchart showing the operation of the dishwasher according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a timing chart showing the operation of the dishwasher according to the first embodiment; [Figure 5] 10 is a timing chart showing the operation of the dishwasher according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a timing chart showing the operation of the dishwasher according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors arrived at the idea of ​​the present disclosure, there was a technology in place that stored hot water boiled by a water heater in the dishwasher's hot water storage tank and used the hot water from the hot water storage tank for washing in order to shorten the time it took for the dishwasher to supply water before starting the wash. However, the inventors discovered that the conventional technology required the installation of a water heater and a hot water storage tank in the dishwasher, which resulted in a problem of reducing the size of the washing tub that holds the dishes and reducing practicality, as well as a concern of increased costs. In order to solve these problems, the inventors came up with the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides a dishwasher and a method for controlling the dishwasher that can shorten the washing time.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, in some cases, more detailed explanation than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanation of already well-known matters or redundant explanation of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0012] (Embodiment 1) The first embodiment will be described. [1-1. Dishwasher configuration] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a dishwasher according to a first embodiment. The dishwasher 1 is a device that includes a washing tub 5, stores dishes 7 inside the washing tub 5, and washes the dishes 7. A dish basket 6 capable of holding the dishes 7 is installed inside the washing tub 5. The dishes 7 are an example of "items to be washed."

[0013] Dishwasher 1 of this embodiment is a built-in dishwasher. Dishwasher 1 is housed in cabinet 3 and can be pulled out forward as indicated by the symbol F in the figure. When dishwasher 1 is pulled out forward F, the top of washing tub 5 is open, allowing dishes 7 to be put in and taken out. Cabinet 3 is installed, for example, in the kitchen of a building.

[0014] Dishwasher 1 includes water supply valve 31 and water supply pipe 32. Water supply pipe 32 is connected to a water supply pipe in the building in which dishwasher 1 is installed, and supplies water flowing through the water supply pipe to washing tub 5. Water supply valve 31 is a valve that is opened and closed under the control of control device 10, which will be described later. Water is supplied to washing tub 5 when water supply valve 31 is opened. The water supply pipe to which dishwasher 1 of the present embodiment is connected may be a hot water supply pipe through which hot water flows. The hot water supply pipe is connected to a hot water supply facility such as a gas water heater or an electric water heater installed in the building, and is a pipe through which hot water at a temperature higher than room temperature flows. The temperature of the hot water supplied from the hot water supply pipe to water supply pipe 32 corresponds to the set temperature of the hot water supply facility, and is within the range of 40°C to 60°C, for example. In this case, hot water is supplied to washing tub 5 by water supply valve 31 and water supply pipe 32.

[0015] The water supply valve 31 and the water supply pipe 32 are an example of a “water supply unit.” The water supplied to the washing tub 5 via the water supply valve 31 is used as washing water for washing and rinsing the tableware 7.

[0016] A water temperature sensor 44 is disposed at the bottom of the washing tank 5 to detect the temperature of the washing water in the washing tank 5. A reservoir 51 is formed at the bottom of the washing tank 5. The reservoir 51 is a recess formed lower than the surrounding area on the bottom surface of the washing tank 5. A filter (not shown) is disposed at the upper end of the reservoir 51 to strain out food scraps and the like adhering to the dishes 7. The water temperature sensor 44 is an example of a "water temperature detection unit."

[0017] An end of the pipe 36 opens at the bottom of the reservoir 51. The other end of the pipe 36 is connected to a washing pump 41 and a drain pump 42.

[0018] Wash pump 41 sucks in wash water through piping 36 and discharges it through wash water pipe 33. Wash water pipe 33 is connected to wash nozzle 34, and the wash water discharged by wash pump 41 is sprayed from wash nozzle 34 towards tableware 7. Wash nozzle 34 may have a rotation mechanism that rotates due to the discharge pressure (spray pressure) of wash pump 41. In this way, wash pump 41 circulates and sprays out the wash water that accumulates at the bottom of washing tub 5, thereby washing and rinsing tableware 7.

[0019] Drain pump 42 sucks in wash water through piping 36 and discharges the wash water outside washing tank 5 through drain pipe 35. Drain pipe 35 is connected to the drain pipe of the building in which dishwasher 1 is installed. Drain pump 42 and drain pipe 35 are an example of a "drainage section."

[0020] Dishwasher 1 is equipped with heater 48 that heats the wash water in washing tub 5. Heater 48 is arranged, for example, at the bottom of washing tub 5, and blower fan 49 is arranged below heater 48. Blower fan 49 blows air for drying dishes 7 in the process of drying dishes 7. Dishwasher 1 may blow warm air onto dishes 7 by heating with heater 48 while blowing air with blower fan 49. Heater 48 may be installed inside washing pump 41. Heater 48 is an example of a "heating unit."

[0021] Dishwasher 1 is equipped with a control device 10 that controls each part of dishwasher 1. The location of control device 10 is not limited, and for example, control device 10 may be installed inside the front door of dishwasher 1 as shown in Fig. 1. Control device 10 is connected to a power cable (not shown) that is connected to a commercial AC power source, and to an operation panel 47 (described later).

[0022] [1-2. Dishwasher control system configuration] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the control system of the dishwasher 1. The various drive units and detectors included in the dishwasher 1 are connected to the control device 10. The drive units include, for example, a water supply valve 31, a washing pump 41, a drain pump 42, a heater 48, and a blower fan 49. The detectors include, for example, a water temperature sensor 44 and a water volume detector 45.

[0023] The control device 10 includes a control unit 11 and a drive circuit 12. The control unit 11 includes a processor that executes programs and a non-volatile memory that stores the programs and data. The processor of the control unit 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPC (Micro Processing Unit). The control unit 11 may be configured as a microcontroller that integrates a processor and a non-volatile memory.

[0024] Drive circuit 12 includes relays, semiconductor switches, inverters, etc., and supplies power to each of water supply valve 31, wash pump 41, drain pump 42, heater 48, and blower fan 49. Drive circuit 12 starts and stops the supply of power to each drive unit under the control of control unit 11. As a result, control unit 11 controls water supply valve 31, wash pump 41, drain pump 42, heater 48, and blower fan 49 to start and stop operation.

[0025] The control unit 11 controls the drive circuit 12 to adjust the operating state of the cleaning pump 41. Specifically, the control unit 11 controls the rotation speed of the cleaning pump 41 by controlling the voltage or current supplied from the drive circuit 12 to the cleaning pump 41, thereby switching the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41 between at least two levels. In the first embodiment, the control unit 11 switches the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41 between two levels, a first spray pressure P1 and a second spray pressure P2. The switching of the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41 is not limited to two levels, and may be switched between more levels. As an example, in the second embodiment described below, an operation of switching the spray pressure between up to six levels will be described. When the drive circuit 12 includes an inverter, the control unit 11 may control the drive circuit 12 to switch the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 in more stages.

[0026] Furthermore, the control unit 11 may be capable of adjusting, for example, the injection pressure of the drain pump 42, the heat output of the heater 48, and the rotation speed of the blower fan 49 in two or more stages. Furthermore, the control unit 11 may be capable of adjusting, for example, the opening degree of the water supply valve 31 in two or more stages.

[0027] The control unit 11 can obtain the detected temperature value from the water temperature sensor 44. Control unit 11 detects the amount of water inside cleaning tank 5 using water amount detection unit 45. For example, water amount detection unit 45 may be a flow meter that measures the amount of water supplied. This flow meter is installed, for example, downstream of water supply valve 31 in a pipe that is connected to water supply pipe 32 and grounded inside cleaning tank 5. In this case, control unit 11 detects the amount of water by measuring the amount of water supplied using the flow meter.

[0028] Control unit 11 may also be configured to calculate the amount of water drained by measuring the operating time of drain pump 42 and detect the amount of water in washing tub 5 based on the amount of water drained. Control unit 11 may also determine whether a predetermined amount of water is present in washing tub 5 by determining whether the spray pressure or operating load of washing pump 41 is appropriate, and detect the amount of water based on this determination result. Dishwasher 1 may also be configured to include a water level sensor installed in washing tub 5. This water level sensor detects the water level in washing tub 5. In this case, control unit 11 can detect the water amount based on the detection value of the water level sensor. As described above, water amount detection unit 45 can be realized by specific hardware or a function of control unit 11. Dishwasher 1 may also be configured to detect the amount of water or the water level in washing tub 5 by performing multiple methods, including measuring the amount of water supplied using a flow meter, calculating the amount of water drained based on the operating time of drain pump 42, and measuring the water level using a water level sensor. In this case, using multiple methods allows the amount of water or the water level in washing tub 5 to be managed with higher accuracy.

[0029] An operation panel 47 is connected to the control unit 11. The operation panel 47 includes switches operated by the user of the dishwasher 1, and a display unit having an LCD panel, LED (Light Emitting Diode) indicators, etc. The operation panel 47 is disposed on the front door of the dishwasher 1 or on top of the dishwasher 1. When the operation panel 47 detects a user operation, it outputs an operation signal corresponding to the operation to the control unit 11. Furthermore, the operation panel 47 displays the operating status of the dishwasher 1 on the display unit under the control of the control unit 11.

[0030] [1-3. Operation of the Dishwasher in the First Embodiment] The operation of the dishwasher 1 will now be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the dishwasher 1 in the first embodiment, showing the washing operation for washing the dishes 7.

[0031] When an instruction to start washing dishes 7 is given via operation panel 47, dishwasher 1 starts the washing operation and first executes the pipe washing process (step S1). In the pipe washing process, dishwasher 1 supplies water to and drains water from washing tub 5, causing water to flow through the interior of washing tub 5, reservoir 51 having a filter, wash water pipe 33, and drain pipe 35. The water supplied to washing tub 5 immediately after dishwasher 1 starts operating, i.e., immediately after water supply valve 31 is opened, is water that has been accumulated in the pipe between the hot water supply equipment and water supply pipe 32, and is at a lower temperature than hot water immediately after it is supplied from the hot water supply equipment. Then, as time passes after water supply valve 31 is opened, the temperature of the water flowing through water supply pipe 32 rises to approach the set temperature of the hot water supply equipment. As dishwasher 1 executes the pipe washing process, the supply water temperature rises during the pipe washing process, and hot water of higher temperature flows into washing tub 5.

[0032] After the pipe cleaning process, the dishwasher 1 performs the cleaning process (step S2). In the cleaning process, the dishwasher 1 opens the water supply valve 31 to allow cleaning water to flow into the cleaning tub 5, operates the cleaning pump 41 to wash the dishes 7, and then operates the drain pump 42 to drain the cleaning water. In the cleaning process, the dishwasher 1 controls the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41 to be switched in stages. For example, in the cleaning process, the dishwasher 1 increases the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41 from the first spray pressure P1 to the second spray pressure P2. This operation is expected to further improve the cleaning efficiency by changing the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41 to a higher pressure after the water temperature has risen after the heater 48 has started heating.

[0033] After the washing step, the dishwasher 1 performs the rinsing step (step S3). The rinsing step includes a first rinsing step, a second rinsing step (step S31), and a finishing rinsing step (step S32). In the rinsing step, rinsing water is supplied to the washing tub 5, and the washing pump 41 is operated to spray the washing water onto the dishes 7. In the first rinsing step, the dishwasher 1 operates the washing pump 41 at a low spray pressure. In the second rinsing step, the dishwasher 1 operates the washing pump 41 at a high spray pressure. In step S31, the dishwasher 1 repeatedly performs the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step a preset number of times. In the finishing rinsing step, after all the washing water used in the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step is drained, the dishwasher 1 supplies and drains the water to rinse the dishes 7 with clean water. In addition, the water remaining inside the cleaning tank 5, the cleaning water pipe 33, the reservoir 51 and the drain pipe 35 is rinsed and purified.

[0034] After the rinsing step (step S3), the dishwasher 1 can perform the drying step (step S4). Whether or not the dishwasher 1 performs the drying step is selected or instructed by operating the operation panel 47. For example, if the user operates the operation panel 47 to select a wash course that includes a drying step, the drying step is performed after the rinsing step. In the drying step, the dishwasher 1 drains the wash water from the washing tub 5, and performs heating by the heater 48 and air blowing by the blower fan 49. Furthermore, during part or all of the drying step, the dishwasher 1 may perform a keep-dry operation in which heating by the heater 48 is not performed and air is blown by the blower fan 49.

[0035] The drying step can be omitted. For example, if the user operates operation panel 47 to set the drying step to be omitted, dishwasher 1 will end the washing operation without executing the drying step.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a timing chart showing the operation of the dishwasher 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 shows an example of a specific operation of the dishwasher 1 when it operates according to the flowchart of FIG. 3. FIG. 4(A) shows the water supply state of the water supply valve 31, corresponding to the open / closed state of the water supply valve 31. FIG. 4(B) shows the operating state of the wash pump 41, where P1 indicates operation at the first injection pressure P1 and P2 indicates operation at the second injection pressure P2. Here, the second injection pressure P2 is higher than the first injection pressure P1. The first injection pressure P1 corresponds to the "first injection pressure," and the second injection pressure P2 corresponds to the "second injection pressure." This embodiment describes an example in which the third injection pressure is equal to the first injection pressure P1 and the fourth injection pressure is equal to the second injection pressure P2, but this is merely an example. FIG. 4(C) shows the operating state of the drain pump 42. FIG. 4(D) shows the energized state of the heater 48. FIG. 4(E) is a graph showing temperature changes detected by water temperature sensor 44, with the vertical axis representing temperature. Temperature TE1 in FIG. 4(E) is a preset temperature and is an example of a "set temperature." FIG. 4(F) is a graph showing the amount of water in washing tub 5. L1, L2, and L3 in FIG. 4(F) represent predetermined amounts of water. In FIG. 4, symbols T1 to T38 and T51 represent specific timings after dishwasher 1 starts operating. An example of the operation of the dishwasher 1 will be described in detail below with reference to the timing chart of FIG.

[0037] Before the start of the washing operation, the water supply valve 31 is closed, the washing pump 41 and the drain pump 42 are stopped, and the heater 48 is stopped.

[0038] Dishwasher 1 operates drain pump 42 for a fixed time from time T1. This causes water to be drained if it has accumulated in washing tub 5. After operation of drain pump 42 stops, dishwasher 1 opens water supply valve 31 to supply water from time T2 to time T3. Furthermore, dishwasher 1 operates drain pump 42 again when the amount of water in washing tub 5 reaches a predetermined amount between time T2 and time T3. In other words, when most of the water in washing tub 5 has been drained by draining for a fixed time from time T1, dishwasher 1 starts supplying water, and operates drain pump 42 again after the predetermined amount of water has been supplied.

[0039] After time T2, dishwasher 1 opens water supply valve 31 to supply water to washing tub 5. That is, dishwasher 1 supplies water during the period from time T2 to time T12. Water supply valve 31 does not necessarily remain open during this period. When supplying water during a washing operation, control unit 11 controls water supply valve 31 according to the amount of water in washing tub 5.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 4(F), the amount of water in the washing tub 5 increases after time T2 as the water supply valve 31 opens. For example, when the water level detected by the water level detection unit 45 reaches the target water level or a predetermined water level with the water supply valve 31 open, the dishwasher 1 closes the water supply valve 31 even during the water supply period. Furthermore, for example, during the water supply period, the dishwasher 1 opens the water supply valve 31 to supply water if the water level detected by the water level detection unit 45 is lower than the target water level. A specific example of the water level detection unit 45 is a mode in which the dishwasher 1 operates the wash pump 41 and the control unit 11 determines the water level based on the load on the wash pump 41 at that time. That is, between times T3 and T4 and between times T5 and T6, the dishwasher 1 stops the water supply and operates the wash pump 41 for a short period of time, determining the amount of water in the washing tub 5 based on the operating load of the wash pump 41. In this way, the control unit 11 controls the amount of water in the washing tub 5 to maintain, for example, the water level L2 or higher. The operation of the cleaning pump 41 to detect the amount of water passes water through the cleaning water pipe 33 and the inside of the cleaning nozzle 34, and is therefore expected to have the effect of cleaning the cleaning nozzle 34. The control unit 11 may, for example, identify the amount of water in the cleaning tank 5, or may simply determine whether or not the required amount of water is present. The control unit 11 may also detect the amount of water by a method other than operating the cleaning pump 41.

[0041] If the dishwasher 1 is configured so that the user adds detergent to the washing tub 5 by themselves, the pipe cleaning process is performed after the detergent has been added to the dishwasher 1. Therefore, if the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 is high, there is a possibility that the detergent added by the user will be discharged. For this reason, when the washing pump 41 operates in the pipe cleaning process, the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 is preferably equal to or lower than the first spray pressure P1, and a lower spray pressure is also acceptable.

[0042] The above operations after time T1 correspond to the pipe cleaning process (step S1). During the pipe cleaning process, the water temperature in cleaning tub 5 rises, as shown in FIG. 4(E). When the water temperature reaches temperature TE1 (time T51), dishwasher 1 ends the pipe cleaning process (step S1). That is, dishwasher 1 ends the water supply that was being performed at time T51 at time T7, and then ends the water drainage at time T8.

[0043] The pipe cleaning process is performed from the start of dishwasher 1 operation until the water temperature reaches temperature TE1, and various modes are possible for the number of times water supply valve 31 is opened and closed and the number of times cleaning pump 41 is operated during this time. For example, FIG. 4 shows an example in which operation M1, which includes one water supply, is performed three times. Operation M1 is one unit of operation of dishwasher 1, and includes at least the operation of opening water supply valve 31 and starting water supply. Operation M1 may also include an operation in which control unit 11 detects the amount of water.

[0044] As a first mode, in dishwasher 1, the number of times to perform operation M1 is set in advance, and control unit 11 performs operation M1 the set number of times to end the pipe cleaning process. In a second example, a condition for transitioning from the pipe cleaning process (step S1) to the cleaning process (step S2) is set in the dishwasher 1, and the control unit 11 repeatedly executes operation M1 until the set condition is met. This condition is, for example, that the water temperature in the cleaning tank 5 rises to a predetermined temperature. In a third example, an upper limit is set on the number of times that operation M1 is performed when operating in the second example. In this case, the dishwasher 1 repeatedly performs operation M1 until a set condition is met or the number of times that operation M1 is performed reaches the upper limit, and then the dishwasher proceeds to the cleaning process. In other words, in the second example, there is no need to set an upper limit on the number of times that operation M1 is repeated.

[0045] The operation of drain pump 42 during the pipe cleaning process from time T1 to time T8 may be intermittent or continuous. In the example of Fig. 4, dishwasher 1 continuously drains water using drain pump 42 for more than half the execution time of the pipe cleaning process. For example, in the operation example of Fig. 4, drain pump 42 continuously drains water until the draining is completed at time T8, and the execution time of this draining is more than half the period from time T1 to time T8.

[0046] In the pipe washing step, sufficient drainage by the drain pump 42 allows high-temperature hot water to be supplied through the water supply pipe 32. This allows washing of the dishes 7 to begin with high-temperature hot water. This shortens the time required to raise the temperature of the wash water, and also makes it possible to obtain high washing power in a short time, so that dirt on the dishes 7 can be thoroughly removed in a short time.

[0047] Furthermore, in the pipe cleaning process, water flows through the cleaning water pipe 33, the reservoir 51, the drain pipe 35, and the bottom of the cleaning tank 5, so that each part of the cleaning tank 5 can be cleaned before operation begins. For example, the filter (not shown) located above the reservoir 51 can be cleaned. This improves the filter's collection capacity and allows the subsequent cleaning and rinsing processes to be performed efficiently. Also, if a shortage of detergent occurs during continued use of the dishwasher 1, oil film and fine solid dirt may adhere and accumulate inside the cleaning tank 5. However, since this dirt can be removed in the pipe cleaning process, stable cleaning power can be achieved for a long period of time without periodic maintenance of the dishwasher 1. This has the effect of further improving the convenience of the dishwasher 1.

[0048] Next, dishwasher 1 starts supplying water for the washing cycle at time T9. Dishwasher 1 monitors the amount of wash water in wash tub 5 based on the detection value of water level detection unit 45. When the amount of wash water reaches a first amount, dishwasher 1 operates wash pump 41 at first spray pressure P1 at time T10. Dishwasher 1 continues to supply water and monitor the amount of water at time T10. When dishwasher 1 detects that the amount of wash water has reached a second amount, it increases the spray pressure of wash pump 41 to second spray pressure P2 at time T11.

[0049] The specific injection pressures of the first injection pressure P1 and the second injection pressure P2 can be changed and set as desired, as long as the second injection pressure P2 is at least higher than the first injection pressure P1. The second injection pressure P2 can be, for example, the rated injection pressure of the cleaning pump 41 or the maximum injection pressure of the cleaning pump 41 within the rated range, but it does not have to be the maximum injection pressure. If the second injection pressure P2 is a sufficiently high pressure, the second water volume corresponds to the water volume that allows the wash pump 41 to operate at the second injection pressure P2. In other words, the second water volume is a sufficient volume that allows the wash pump 41 to operate without restriction. Because the first injection pressure P1 is a lower pressure than the second injection pressure P2, the first water volume is smaller than the second water volume.

[0050] In this embodiment, the dishwasher 1 starts operation of the wash pump 41 at time T10, before the amount of wash water reaches the second amount. In other words, it can start spraying wash water after starting water supply at time T9, without waiting until the amount of wash water reaches the second amount. This allows the timing to start washing the dishes 7 earlier than the timing when the amount of wash water reaches the second amount, and as a result, the washing of the dishes 7 can be completed earlier. Furthermore, after the amount of wash water reaches the second amount, the wash pump 41 is operated at the second spray pressure P2, so the dishes 7 can be washed effectively with sufficient spray pressure.

[0051] When the amount of wash water reaches the standard amount of water for washing (time T12), the dishwasher 1 closes the water supply valve 31 and stops the water supply. This is an example of operation when the second amount of water is less than the standard amount of water for washing. For example, if the second amount of water is equal to the standard amount of water for washing, the water supply is stopped at time T11.

[0052] The dishwasher 1 then performs a wash for a preset wash time. During the wash, the water supply is stopped and the drain pump 42 is stopped. During the wash, the dishwasher 1 also performs heating using the heater 48. During this period, the dishwasher 1 repeatedly turns the heater 48 on and off to maintain the temperature of the wash water at a predetermined temperature for washing. The dishwasher 1 ends the washing process (step S2) at time T13 after the set washing time has elapsed.

[0053] At time T13, dishwasher 1 starts the rinsing cycle (step S3). At time T13, the spray pressure of wash pump 41 is changed from second spray pressure P2 to first spray pressure P1, and drain pump 42 starts operating. Also, heater 48 is turned off.

[0054] After time T13, at time T14, water supply valve 31 is opened and water supply begins. Time T14 is the timing when control unit 11 detects that the amount of wash water in washing tub 5 has decreased to a predetermined amount due to the operation of drain pump 42. Water supply continues thereafter until time T16. Meanwhile, drain pump 42 is stopped a predetermined time after time T13. The operation of dishwasher 1 from time T13 until drain pump 42 is stopped corresponds to the first rinse step.

[0055] After the drain pump 42 is stopped, the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 switches to the second spray pressure P2 at a predetermined timing (time T15). At time T15, water is being supplied and the drain pump 42 is stopped. The operation of the wash pump 41 continues until time T17. The operation of the dishwasher 1 from time T15 to time T17 corresponds to the second rinse step. While the second rinse step is being performed, the water supply stops at time T16. The timing at which the water supply stops is when the amount of wash water in the washing tub 5 reaches the amount of water set for the rinse step.

[0056] After time T13, the heater 48 is repeatedly turned on and off to maintain the temperature of the cleaning water in the cleaning tub 5 at a predetermined temperature for rinsing. Dishwasher 1 may keep heater 48 off during operation after time T13. When water supply pipe 32 is connected to a hot water supply facility, it can be said that hot water of a sufficiently high temperature is supplied from water supply pipe 32 to washing tub 5 during processes after the pipe cleaning process. Therefore, when water supply pipe 32 receives hot water from a hot water supply facility, heater 48 can be controlled to be off after time T13 and during other periods, thereby reducing energy consumption. Conditions for executing this control include when dishwasher 1 is set to receive a supply of hot water from water supply pipe 32, or when a wash course that uses a supply of hot water for washing is selected by operating operation panel 47.

[0057] In addition, when the dishwasher 1 is set so that the water supply pipe 32 does not receive a supply of hot water, or when a washing course that does not receive a supply of hot water is selected by operating the operation panel 47, the heater 48 may be controlled to be turned on and off as shown in Figure 4. In addition, while the dishwasher 1 is operating with the heater 48 turned off, the control unit 11 may monitor the detection value of the water temperature sensor 44 and control the heater 48 to turn on when the water temperature falls below a set temperature.

[0058] The spray pressure of the wash pump 41 is changed to the first spray pressure P1 at time T17 after a preset time has elapsed, and the first rinsing process is carried out from time T17. That is, the drain pump 42 starts operating at time T17, and then water supply starts when it is detected that the amount of wash water in the washing tank 5 has decreased to a predetermined amount (time T18). Then, the drain pump 42 is stopped after a predetermined time has elapsed after time T13, and the second rinsing process is started at time T19 after the drain pump 42 has stopped.

[0059] In this embodiment, the first rinse step and the second rinse step are repeatedly performed from time T13 to time T33. Various embodiments are possible regarding the number of times the first rinse step and the second rinse step are performed. For example, FIG. 4 shows an example in which operation M2, which includes the first rinse step and the second rinse step, is performed three times. Operation M2 is one operation unit of the dishwasher 1, and includes a first rinse step (e.g., time T17-T19) in which the wash pump 41 is operated at the first spray pressure P1, and a second rinse step (e.g., time T19-T21) in which the wash pump 41 is operated at the second spray pressure P2. Operation M2 may be performed two or fewer times, or may be performed more than once, and various conditions for ending operation M2 can be set. To ensure more reliable rinsing, it is desirable to perform operation M2 multiple times. Operation M2 is an example of "rinse control."

[0060] For example, when a wash course is selected by operating operation panel 47, dishwasher 1 performs operation M2 the number of times corresponding to the selected wash course. Furthermore, dishwasher 1 may perform operation M2 a different number of times depending on whether water supply pipe 32 is connected to a hot water supply facility and hot water is supplied to dishwasher 1 or not. Furthermore, an upper limit on the number of times operation M2 is performed may be set in control unit 11, and control unit 11 may change the number of times operation M2 is performed based on the temperature detected by water temperature sensor 44 or the like so long as the number of times does not exceed this upper limit.

[0061] After the second rinsing step ends at time T33, the rinsing finishing step (step S32) is executed. Dishwasher 1 starts operation of drain pump 42 at time T33 and starts water supply at time T34 while drain pump 42 is operating. Dishwasher 1 operates drain pump 42 for a predetermined time, and then stops drain pump 42 at time T35. Furthermore, dishwasher 1 stops water supply at time T36. During the period from time T33 to time T36, in washing tub 5, wash water used for rinsing is drained, while new water is supplied. This replaces the water in washing water pipe 33, reservoir 51, drain pipe 35, and the bottom of washing tub 5. After time T33, washing pump 41 operates continuously or intermittently. Control unit 11 may stop washing pump 41 as necessary. 4, from time T33 to time T37, the cleaning pump 41 is operated while switching between the first spray pressure P1 and the second spray pressure P2, and is stopped at time T37. Also, from time T33 to time T37, the amount of water in the cleaning tank 5 fluctuates as water is supplied and drained.

[0062] Dishwasher 1 operates drain pump 42 from time T37 after the water supply is stopped until time T38. This operation drains most of the wash water from washing tub 5. Although not shown in FIG. 4, when the drying step (step S4) is performed after time T38, dishwasher 1 turns on heater 48 and operates blower fan 49.

[0063] In the rinsing step, the dishwasher 1 starts supplying water at time T34, and then turns on the heater 48 to heat the water in the washing tub 5. This increases the temperature of the dishes and the inside of the washing tub, allowing for rinsing with hot water and shortening the time required for the drying step.

[0064] The operation shown in FIG. 4 is an example. For example, dishwasher 1 may omit the pipe cleaning process (step S1) executed from time T1 to time T8. In this case, dishwasher 1 may start supplying water for the cleaning process (step S2) at time T9 and then wait without operating wash pump 41 and drain pump 42 until the temperature of the wash water reaches the set temperature. Alternatively, dishwasher 1 may start supplying water at time T9 and then wait while operating drain pump 42 and without operating wash pump 41 until the temperature of the wash water reaches the set temperature. In these cases, if the temperature of the wash water does not reach temperature TE1 after a preset time has elapsed, heater 48 may be used to heat the water. Then, operations after time T10 in FIG. 4 may be started while heater 48 is heating the water or when the temperature of the wash water reaches temperature TE1. Dishwasher 1 that performs these operations may connect water supply pipe 32 to a pipe through which unheated water flows, such as a tap pipe, rather than to a hot water pipe.

[0065] Furthermore, for example, dishwasher 1 may supply water to washing tub 5 intermittently for a shorter period of time in the pipe cleaning process (step S1) performed from time T1 to time T8. Specifically, water supply and water supply stop may be repeated between time T2 and time T3. In this case, the amount of water in washing tub 5 can be detected and controlled to maintain an appropriate amount of water with higher accuracy.

[0066] As described above, in the operational example of FIG. 4, the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 during the rinsing process is switched between a high second spray pressure P2 and a low first spray pressure P1. In this example, the first spray pressure P1 corresponds to the "third spray pressure," and the second spray pressure P2 corresponds to the "fourth spray pressure." This is just one example, and the third and fourth spray pressures may be different from the first and second spray pressures P1 and P2, respectively. Specifically, the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 during the rinsing process from time T13 to T15, from T17 to T19, from T21 to T23, from T25 to T27, and from T29 to T31 may be a third spray pressure different from the first spray pressure P1. Similarly, the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 during the rinsing process from times T15 to T17, T19 to T21, T23 to T25, T27 to T29, and T31 to T33 may be a fourth spray pressure different from the second spray pressure P2. In these cases, the fourth spray pressure is higher than the third spray pressure.

[0067] (Embodiment 2) [2. Operation of the Dishwasher in the Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment, a different mode from that shown in FIG. 4 will be described as an operation of the dishwasher 1 described in the first embodiment.

[0068] FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing the operation of dishwasher 1 in embodiment 2. The operation in FIG. 5 is a specific example of the operation of dishwasher 1 when following the flowchart in FIG. 3. FIG. 5(A) shows the water supply state by water supply valve 31, corresponding to the open / closed state of water supply valve 31. FIG. 5(B) shows the operating state of wash pump 41. FIG. 5(C) shows the operating state of drain pump 42. FIG. 5(D) shows the energized state of heater 48. FIG. 5(E) is a graph showing temperature changes detected by water temperature sensor 44, with the vertical axis representing temperature. Temperature TE2 in FIG. 5(E) is a preset temperature, an example of a "set temperature," such as 55°C. FIG. 5(F) is a graph showing the amount of water in washing tub 5. L1, L2, and L3 in FIG. 5(F) represent predetermined amounts of water. In FIG. 5, symbols T61 to T85 indicate specific timings after dishwasher 1 starts operating.

[0069] In the second embodiment, the control unit 11 controls the cleaning pump 41 to operate by switching the injection pressure among six levels. The injection pressures of the cleaning pump 41 are designated as injection pressures PA, PB, PC, PD, PE, and PF. The injection pressures PA, PB, PC, PD, PE, and PF increase in magnitude in this order, with injection pressure PA being the lowest and injection pressure PF being the highest. Any of the injection pressures PA, PB, PC, PD, PE, and PF may be the same as any of the first injection pressure P1 and second injection pressure P2 described in the first embodiment. The same applies to the third and fourth injection pressures; any of the injection pressures PA to PF may correspond to the third injection pressure, and any of the others may correspond to the fourth injection pressure. An example of the operation of the dishwasher 1 will be described in detail below with reference to the timing chart of FIG.

[0070] Before the start of the washing operation, the water supply valve 31 is closed, the washing pump 41 and the drain pump 42 are stopped, and the heater 48 is stopped.

[0071] First, dishwasher 1 performs a draining operation. Dishwasher 1 operates drain pump 42 for a fixed period of time from time T61. This causes water to be drained from washing tub 5 if any. After stopping drain pump 42, dishwasher 1 temporarily operates wash pump 41 to confirm that there is no water in washing tub 5 (water-free detection operation). The water-free state is not limited to a state in which there is no water at all, but also includes a water level below a predetermined level at which water can be considered to be absent. Note that if the water-free detection operation determines that there is water in washing tub 5, it performs a draining operation again, and proceeds to water supply only after the water in washing tub 5 has been completely drained.

[0072] After operating drain pump 42 and wash pump 41, dishwasher 1 opens water supply valve 31 from time T62 to time T63 to supply water. This opening operation of water supply valve 31 is referred to as operation A. As shown in FIG. 5(F), the amount of water in washing tub 5 increases after time T62 as water supply valve 31 opens. Here, dishwasher 1 operates wash pump 41 for a fixed period of time from time T63 when the amount of water in washing tub 5 reaches a predetermined amount (L1), and then stops wash pump 41 and operates drain pump 42 from time T64. The operation of wash pump 41 from time T63 to T64 is referred to as operation B, and the operation of drain pump 42 is referred to as operation C. Operation B enables dishwasher 1 to determine the amount of water in washing tub 5 and further circulates water through wash water pipe 33, wash nozzle 34, and reservoir 51 to clean the interiors of these components. In operation B, since there is no need to spray wash water from the wash nozzle 34 into the inside of the washing tub 5, it is preferable that the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 be set to a pressure that does not spray wash water onto the dishes 7 in the washing tub 5. For this reason, the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 in operation B is set to, for example, the lowest spray pressure PA. This makes it possible to prevent the detergent added by the user from being discharged in the pipe cleaning process, as described in embodiment 1. The water that has flowed through the wash water pipe 33, the wash nozzle 34 and the reservoir 51 is drained by operation C. Operation C is a full drain operation that drains almost all of the water in the washing tub 5.

[0073] A series of actions including actions A, B, and C is referred to as action M3. Action M3 may include an action in which control unit 11 detects the amount of water. In the pipe cleaning process (step S1), the number of times action M3 is performed is not limited. For example, dishwasher 1 may determine the number of times to perform action M3 in the same way as the number of times to perform action M1 described in embodiment 1. Dishwasher 1 may transition to the cleaning process upon detecting that sufficiently hot water is being supplied from water supply pipe 32 to washing tub 5. For example, at time T66, the water temperature in washing tub 5 reaches 40°C, which is within the temperature range suitable for washing.

[0074] Dishwasher 1 may keep water supply valve 31 open while repeatedly performing operation M3. In this case, dishwasher 1 operates drain pump 42 as needed to maintain an appropriate amount of water in washing tub 5. Furthermore, dishwasher 1 may operate drain pump 42 continuously or intermittently while repeatedly performing operation M3.

[0075] After performing the scheduled number of operations M3, the dishwasher 1 stops the drain pump 42, which has drained all the water, and performs the washing process (step S2) from time T68 to time T72. During the washing process, the dishwasher 1 operates the washing pump 41 at a higher spray pressure to wash the dishes 7. At time T68, the dishwasher 1 opens the water supply valve 31, starts the operation of the washing pump 41, and gradually increases the spray pressure of the washing pump 41. For example, after the amount of water in the washing tub 5 reaches a sufficient amount (e.g., L3), the dishwasher 1 sets the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 to the maximum spray pressure PF. The control unit 11 may switch the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 based on the amount of water in the washing tub 5 or based on the elapsed time since the water supply valve 31 was opened. Between times T68 and T72, the dishwasher 1 may perform control to temporarily reduce the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 and control to increase the spray pressure.

[0076] In the second embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, dishwasher 1 operates wash pump 41 before the amount of wash water reaches a maximum amount (for example, L3), thereby quickly finishing washing dishes 7. After the amount of wash water reaches a sufficient amount, wash pump 41 operates at a high injection pressure, thereby effectively washing dishes 7. Dishwasher 1 may also energize heater 48 between times T68 and T71 to heat the wash water.

[0077] In the example shown in FIG. 5(E), the water temperature in washing tub 5 rises to approach the hot water temperature of the hot water supply equipment to which dishwasher 1 is connected while water is repeatedly supplied in the pipe cleaning process. When the pipe cleaning process is completed, the dishwasher 1 drains all the water, and then energizes heater 48 in the washing process. This allows dishes 7 to be washed effectively with high-temperature washing water. For example, at time T71 in the washing process, the water temperature in washing tub 5 reaches 45°C. At the stage of completing the washing process, the dishwasher 1 switches the injection pressure of the washing pump 41 to a relatively low injection pressure PB (time T71). This injection can be used to detect the amount of water in the washing tub 5.

[0078] At the end of the washing cycle, the dishwasher 1 operates the drain pump 42 (time T71) to drain the water. After draining, the dishwasher 1 proceeds to the rinsing cycle (step S3). The dishwasher 1 opens the water supply valve 31 at time T72 and supplies water for a predetermined time until time T73. The dishwasher 1 operates the wash pump 41 to rinse and the drain pump 42 to drain the water. While the water supply valve 31 is supplying water and the drain pump 42 is draining water, the dishwasher 1 continues to operate the wash pump 41 to perform rinsing in a shorter time. In this embodiment, the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 can be switched in multiple stages. Between time T71 and time T73, the wash pump 41 operates by switching the spray pressure in the following order: PB, PA, PB, PD, and PF. In the rinsing cycle, the dishwasher 1 operates the drain pump 42 for a predetermined time while the water supply valve 31 is closed. When drain pump 42 starts operating, dishwasher 1 switches the injection pressure of wash pump 41 to a lower injection pressure in response to the decrease in the amount of water. The operation of drain pump 42 and the opening of water supply valve 31 cause the amount of water in washing tub 5 to increase or decrease while maintaining water volume L1. In other words, dishwasher 1 performs the rinsing cycle while partially replacing the water in washing tub 5.

[0079] Among the operations in the rinsing process, opening of water supply valve 31 (time T72-T73) is operation D, an operation including high-pressure spray from wash pump 41 is operation E, and draining water by drain pump 42 is operation F. A series of operations including operations D, E, and F is referred to as rinsing control M4.

[0080] In the rinsing step (step S3), the number of times rinsing control M4 is executed is not limited. For example, the dishwasher 1 can set or change the number of times rinsing control M4 is executed, similar to the number of times operation M1 described in embodiment 1 is executed. To ensure a more reliable rinse, it is desirable to execute operation M4 multiple times.

[0081] In the final rinse control M4 of the rinse process, the dishwasher 1 reduces the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 to spray pressure PA and performs a full drain using the drain pump 42 (times T80-T81). The wash pump 41 may be temporarily stopped while the full drain is being performed. After the full drain, the dishwasher 1 operates the wash pump 41 to detect the water level in the wash tub 5 and confirms that there is no wash water (time T81). The dishwasher 1 then opens the water supply valve 31 to supply water, and while supplying water, switches the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 to a higher pressure to perform the rinse finishing process (step S3). This completely drains the wash water used in rinse control M4 and supplies new water before performing the rinse finishing process, improving rinsing performance and shortening the rinsing time. In the rinse finishing process, the dishwasher 1 may energize the heater 48 to increase the temperature of the wash water. This allows the dishes 7 to be rinsed with high-temperature washing water, further increasing the washing power.

[0082] During the rinsing process, dishwasher 1 does not stop wash pump 41 but keeps it running continuously. Also, during the rinsing process, dishwasher 1 appropriately operates water supply valve 31 and drain pump 42 to maintain the required amount of wash water in wash tub 5. This allows control to be achieved such that water is supplied while wash pump 41 is running, and water is drained while wash pump 41 is running. Because wash pump 41 continues to run, dishes 7 can be rinsed in a shorter time.

[0083] At the end of the rinsing process, dishwasher 1 stops wash pump 41 and performs a full drain (time T83). It also turns off power to heater 48. When the full drainage by drain pump 42 stops (time T84), dishwasher 1 operates wash pump 41 and checks that there is no water in washing tub 5.

[0084] After time T72, which corresponds to the rinsing step (step S3), dishwasher 1 may turn heater 48 on and off to maintain the temperature of the wash water in washing tub 5. Dishwasher 1 may also keep heater 48 off during operation after time T72. For example, if water supply pipe 32 is connected to a hot water supply facility, sufficiently hot water is supplied to washing tub 5 after the pipe cleaning step, so energy consumption can be reduced by controlling heater 48 to be off.

[0085] Furthermore, when dishwasher 1 is set so that water supply pipe 32 does not receive a supply of hot water, or when a wash course that does not receive a supply of hot water is selected by operating operation panel 47, control may be performed to turn heater 48 on and off during the rinsing process (step S3). Furthermore, while dishwasher 1 is operating with heater 48 turned off, dishwasher 1 may monitor the detection value of water temperature sensor 44, and perform control to energize heater 48 when the water temperature falls below a set temperature.

[0086] After the rinsing step, the dishwasher 1 can either execute the drying step or terminate operation without executing the drying step, depending on the setting made through the operation panel 47, etc. If the drying step is executed, the time for which the heater 48 is energized during the rinsing step may be extended to raise the temperature of the dishes 7 to a higher temperature. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the water temperature reaches 55°C at time T83 before the drying step is started.

[0087] In controlling the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41, the spray pressure PA corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the cleaning pump 41 is set to 500 to 1000 revolutions per minute, for example. The spray pressure PA is a relatively low pressure that does not forcefully spray water from the cleaning nozzle 34, and is suitable for circulating cleaning water in the cleaning water pipe 33, the cleaning nozzle 34, and the reservoir 51. The spray pressure PB corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the cleaning pump 41 is set to 1800 revolutions per minute, for example. The spray pressure PB has the advantage of not requiring precise control of the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41. The spray pressure PB determines the amount of water in the cleaning tank 5.

[0088] The spray pressure PC corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the cleaning pump 41 is 2000 rpm, for example. The spray pressure PC is suitable for detecting the amount of water in the cleaning tank 5 based on the load on the cleaning pump 41, for example. The spray pressure PD corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the wash pump 41 is 2500 rpm, for example. The spray pressure PD is a relatively low pressure among the spray pressures used to wash and rinse the tableware 7. The spray pressure PE corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the wash pump 41 is 3000 rpm, for example. The spray pressure PE is a medium pressure among the spray pressures used to wash and rinse the tableware 7. The spray pressure PF corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the wash pump 41 is 3500 rpm, for example. The spray pressure PE is a high pressure among the spray pressures used to wash and rinse the tableware 7.

[0089] In the operation illustrated in Fig. 5, as shown in Fig. 5(F), a small water volume L1 is maintained during the pipe cleaning step, and the amount of wash water is managed within the range of water volumes L1 to L3 during the cleaning step and rinsing step. In the rinsing step, the water volume L1 or more is maintained, so the dishes 7 can be rinsed while the washing pump 41 continues to operate. Therefore, rinsing can be completed in a shorter time than when rinsing is performed by repeatedly draining all of the washing tub 5 and supplying water.

[0090] The operation shown in Figure 5 is an example. For example, dishwasher 1 may omit the pipe cleaning process (step S1) from time T61 to time T68. Also, dishwasher 1 may supply water to washing tub 5 intermittently for a shorter period of time during the pipe cleaning process (step S1). Also, the switching of the spray pressure of washing pump 41 during the washing process and rinsing process shown in Figure 5 is an example, and dishwasher 1 may switch the spray pressure in a more complicated manner.

[0091] In the dishwasher 1, the wash nozzle 34, which sprays water delivered by the wash pump 41, may be configured to include a water distribution mechanism (not shown). The water distribution mechanism switches between the multiple spray nozzles of the wash nozzle 34, specifically, by switching between the multiple flow paths connected to the spray nozzles of the wash nozzle 34. The water distribution mechanism can change the spray range in the wash tub 5 or the spray direction of the wash water. When the dishwasher 1 is configured to include a water distribution mechanism, the dishwasher 1 can more effectively wash and rinse the dishes 7 by switching the spray nozzles during the washing and rinsing steps. For example, the water distribution mechanism switches the flow paths each time the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 decreases. In this case, the dishwasher 1 temporarily reduces the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 to spray pressure PA between times T69 and T70 to cause the water distribution mechanism to switch during the washing step from time T68 to time T72. The spray pressure of the wash pump 41 drops to spray pressure PA and then rises to spray pressure PF, which activates the water diversion mechanism and switches the spray nozzle. Similarly, the dishwasher 1 operates the water diversion mechanism to switch the spray nozzle of the wash nozzle 34 in rinse control M4. For this switching, the dishwasher 1 temporarily reduces the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 to spray pressure PA in rinse control M4, and then increases it to spray pressure PD. This allows the water diversion mechanism to operate without stopping the wash pump 41 and switch the spray nozzle of the wash nozzle 34, thereby washing dishes 7 more efficiently in a shorter time. Furthermore, if the dishwasher 1 is configured without a water diversion mechanism, there is no need to temporarily reduce the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 to spray pressure PA between times T69 and T70 and in rinse control M4.

[0092] (Embodiment 3) [2. Operation of the Dishwasher in the Third Embodiment] In the third embodiment, a rinse course will be described as an aspect of the operation of the dishwasher 1 described in the first embodiment, which is different from that shown in Figures 4 and 5. Note that the same content as in the second embodiment will not be described again.

[0093] FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the operation of the dishwasher 1 in the third embodiment, showing the rinsing operation of rinsing the dishes 7.

[0094] When an instruction to start the rinsing course for dishes 7 is given via operation panel 47, dishwasher 1 starts the rinsing operation and first performs the rinsing step (step S1). The rinsing step includes a first rinsing step, a second rinsing step (step S11), and a finishing rinsing step (step S12). In the rinsing step, rinsing water is supplied to washing tub 5 and washing pump 41 is operated to spray the washing water onto dishes 7. In the first rinsing step, dishwasher 1 operates washing pump 41 by setting the spray pressure of washing pump 41 to low. In the second rinsing step, dishwasher 1 operates washing pump 41 by setting the spray pressure of washing pump 41 to high. In step S11, dishwasher 1 repeatedly performs the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step a preset number of times. In the rinsing finishing step, after all the washing water used in the first and second rinsing steps has been drained, the dishwasher 1 supplies and drains water to rinse the dishes 7 with clean water. The water remaining inside the washing tub 5, the washing water pipe 33, the reservoir 51, and the drain pipe 35 is also rinsed and purified.

[0095] After the rinsing process (step S1), the dishwasher 1 can perform the drying process (step S2). Whether or not the dishwasher 1 performs the drying process is selected or instructed by operating the operation panel 47. For example, if the user operates the operation panel 47 to select a rinsing course that includes a drying process, the drying process is performed after the rinsing process. In the drying process, the dishwasher 1 drains the wash water from the washing tub 5, and performs heating by the heater 48 and blowing air by the blower fan 49. Furthermore, during part or all of the drying process, the dishwasher 1 may perform a keep-dry operation in which heating by the heater 48 is not performed and air is blown by the blower fan 49.

[0096] The drying step can be omitted. For example, if the user operates operation panel 47 to set the drying step to be omitted, dishwasher 1 will end the rinsing operation without executing the drying step.

[0097] FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing the operation of dishwasher 1 in embodiment 3. The operation in FIG. 7 differs from the flowchart in FIG. 3 in that dishwasher 1 operates mainly in a rinsing operation over a short period of time. FIG. 7(A) shows the water supply state of water supply valve 31, corresponding to the open / closed state of water supply valve 31. FIG. 7(B) shows the operating state of wash pump 41. FIG. 7(C) shows the operating state of drain pump 42. FIG. 7(D) shows the energized state of heater 48. FIG. 7(E) shows the temperature change detected by water temperature sensor 44, with the vertical axis representing temperature. Temperature TE3 in FIG. 7(E) is a preset temperature, an example of a "set temperature," such as 45°C. FIG. 7(F) shows the amount of water in washing tub 5. L1, L2, and L3 in FIG. 7(F) represent predetermined amounts of water. In FIG. 5, symbols T91 to T112 indicate specific timings after dishwasher 1 starts operating.

[0098] In the third embodiment, the control unit 11 controls the cleaning pump 41 to operate by switching the injection pressure between six levels, as in the second embodiment. The injection pressures of the cleaning pump 41 are designated as injection pressures PA, PB, PC, PD, PE, PF, and PG. The injection pressures PA, PB, PC, PD, PE, PF, and PG increase in magnitude in this order, with injection pressure PA being the lowest and injection pressure PF being the highest. Any of the injection pressures PA, PB, PC, PD, PE, PF, and PG may be the same as any of the first injection pressure P1 and second injection pressure P2 described in the first embodiment. The same applies to the third and fourth injection pressures; any of the injection pressures PA to PG may correspond to the third injection pressure, and any of the others may correspond to the fourth injection pressure. An example of the operation of the dishwasher 1 will be described in detail below with reference to the timing chart of FIG.

[0099] Before the rinsing operation starts, the water supply valve 31 is closed, the wash pump 41 and the drain pump 42 are stopped, and the heater 48 is stopped.

[0100] First, at time T91, dishwasher 1 temporarily operates wash pump 41 to confirm that there is no water in wash tub 5 (water-free detection operation). The water-free state is not limited to a state in which there is no water at all, but also includes a state in which there is a predetermined amount of water or less that can be considered to be no water. Note that dishwasher 1 may perform a draining operation before operating wash pump 41. If the water-free detection operation at time T91 determines that there is water in wash tub 5, it performs a draining operation, and once the water in wash tub 5 has been drained, it proceeds to water supply. By operating drain pump 42 for a certain period of time, if water has accumulated in wash tub 5, the dishwasher 1 drains the water.

[0101] Next, the dishwasher 1 operates the wash pump 41, then opens the water supply valve 31 at time T92 and supplies water for a predetermined time until time T95. The dishwasher 1 operates the wash pump 41 to perform a rinse cycle and operates the drain pump 42 to drain water. While the water supply valve 31 is supplying water and the drain pump 42 is draining water, the dishwasher 1 continues to operate the wash pump 41, thereby performing a rinse cycle in a shorter time. In this embodiment, the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 can be switched in multiple stages. Between time T93 and time T95, the wash pump 41 operates while switching between spray pressures PA, PD, and PF, in that order. During the rinsing process, the dishwasher 1 operates the drain pump 42 for a predetermined time while the water supply valve 31 is closed. When the drain pump 42 starts operating, the dishwasher 1 switches the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 from spray pressure PF to lower spray pressures PB and PA, in that order, in response to a decrease in the amount of water. By operating drain pump 42 and opening water supply valve 31, the amount of water in washing tub 5 increases or decreases while maintaining water volume L1. In other words, dishwasher 1 performs the rinsing cycle while partially replacing the water in washing tub 5.

[0102] Among the operations in the rinsing process, opening of water supply valve 31 (times T92-T95) is operation G, an operation including high-pressure spray from wash pump 41 is operation H, and drainage by drain pump 42 is operation I. A series of operations including operations G, H, and I is referred to as rinsing control M5.

[0103] In the rinsing step (step S11), the number of times rinsing control M5 is executed is not limited. For example, the dishwasher 1 can set or change the number of times rinsing control M5 is executed, similar to the number of times operation M1 described in embodiment 1 is executed. To ensure a more reliable rinse, it is desirable to execute operation M5 multiple times.

[0104] In the final rinse control M5 of the rinse process, dishwasher 1 sequentially reduces the spray pressure of wash pump 41 from spray pressure PF to spray pressure PB and then PA, and performs a full drain using drain pump 42 (times T104-T107). Wash pump 41 may be temporarily stopped while the full drain is being performed. After the full drain, dishwasher 1 operates wash pump 41 and detects the water level in wash tub 5 (time T107). Then, dishwasher 1 opens water supply valve 31 to supply water, and while the water is being supplied, switches the spray pressure of wash pump 41 to a higher pressure to perform the rinse finishing process (step S12). This allows the rinse finish step to be performed after the wash water used in rinse control M4 has been completely drained, improving the rinsing performance of the rinse finish step and enabling rinsing in a shorter time. During the rinse finish step, the dishwasher 1 may energize the heater 48 to raise the temperature of the wash water.

[0105] During the rinsing process, dishwasher 1 does not stop wash pump 41 but keeps it running continuously. Also, during the rinsing process, dishwasher 1 appropriately operates water supply valve 31 and drain pump 42 to maintain the required amount of wash water in wash tub 5. This allows control to be achieved such that water is supplied while wash pump 41 is running, and water is drained while wash pump 41 is running. Because wash pump 41 continues to run, dishes 7 can be rinsed in a shorter time.

[0106] At the end of the rinsing finishing step (step S12), dishwasher 1 increases the spray pressure of wash pump 41 from spray pressure PF to PG and operates it at a water pressure higher than PF for a predetermined time (times T111-T112) to perform a rinsing operation, then stops wash pump 41 and performs a full drain (time T112). Also, heater 48 is turned off. Once full drainage by drain pump 42 has stopped, dishwasher 1 may operate wash pump 41 to check that there is no water in washing tub 5.

[0107] After time T92, which corresponds to the rinsing step (step S1), dishwasher 1 may turn heater 48 on and off to maintain the temperature of the wash water in washing tub 5. Dishwasher 1 may also keep heater 48 off during operation after time T92. For example, if water supply pipe 32 is connected to a hot water supply facility, high-temperature hot water is supplied to washing tub 5, so energy consumption can be reduced by controlling heater 48 to be off.

[0108] Furthermore, when dishwasher 1 is set so that water supply pipe 32 does not receive a supply of hot water, or when a wash course that does not receive a supply of hot water is selected by operating operation panel 47, control may be performed to turn heater 48 on and off during the rinsing process (step S1). Furthermore, while dishwasher 1 is operating with heater 48 turned off, dishwasher 1 may monitor the detection value of water temperature sensor 44, and perform control to energize heater 48 when the water temperature falls below a set temperature.

[0109] After the rinsing step, the dishwasher 1 can either execute the drying step (step S2) or terminate operation without executing the drying step, depending on the setting made through the operation panel 47, etc. If the drying step is executed, the heater 48 may be energized for a longer period of time during the rinsing step to raise the temperature of the dishes 7 to a higher temperature. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, by controlling the heater 48 to be on from time T109 before the drying step starts to time T112, the rinsing operation is performed with warm water during the rinsing step, thereby enhancing the cleaning power. The water temperature reaches 50°C at time T112.

[0110] The control of the injection pressure of the washing pump 41 is the same as in the second embodiment. In the operation illustrated in Fig. 7, the amount of wash water is managed within the range of water amounts L1 to L3 during the rinsing process, as shown in Fig. 7(F). In the rinsing process, the amount of water is maintained at L1 or more, so the dishes 7 can be rinsed while the washing pump 41 continues to operate. Therefore, rinsing can be completed in a shorter time than when rinsing is performed by repeatedly draining all of the washing tub 5 and supplying water.

[0111] The operation shown in Figure 7 is an example. For example, dishwasher 1 may omit the second and subsequent repeated rinse steps from time T97 to T101, and perform only the first rinse and final rinse steps (step S11) in the rinse step. Furthermore, dishwasher 1 may supply water to washing tub 5 intermittently for shorter periods of time. Furthermore, the switching of the spray pressure of washing pump 41 in the rinse step shown in Figure 7 is an example, and dishwasher 1 may perform more complex spray pressure switching.

[0112] In controlling the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41, the spray pressure PA corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the cleaning pump 41 is set to 500 to 1000 revolutions per minute, for example. The spray pressure PA is a relatively low pressure that does not forcefully spray water from the cleaning nozzle 34, and is suitable for circulating cleaning water in the cleaning water pipe 33, the cleaning nozzle 34, and the reservoir 51. The spray pressure PB corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the cleaning pump 41 is set to 1800 revolutions per minute, for example. The spray pressure PB has the advantage of not requiring precise control of the spray pressure of the cleaning pump 41. The spray pressure PB determines the amount of water in the cleaning tank 5.

[0113] The spray pressure PC corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the cleaning pump 41 is 2000 rpm, for example. The spray pressure PC is suitable for detecting the amount of water in the cleaning tank 5 based on the load on the cleaning pump 41, for example.

[0114] The spray pressure PD corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the wash pump 41 is 2000 rpm, for example. The spray pressure PD is a relatively low pressure among the spray pressures used to wash and rinse the tableware 7. The spray pressure PE corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the wash pump 41 is 2500 rpm, for example. The spray pressure PE is a medium pressure among the spray pressures used to wash and rinse the tableware 7. The spray pressure PF corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the wash pump 41 is 3000 rpm, for example. The spray pressure PF is a high pressure among the spray pressures used to wash and rinse the tableware 7. The spray pressure PG corresponds to the spray pressure when the rotation speed of the wash pump 41 is 3500 rpm, for example. The spray pressure PG is a high pressure among the spray pressures used to wash and rinse the tableware 7.

[0115] In the first to third embodiments, the specification has been described in which the spray pressure is changed depending on the rotation speed of the motor of the wash pump 41. However, the method of changing the spray pressure of the wash water is not limited to this, and the water pressure may be increased using other means, and the wash water may be sent to the wash nozzle 34 for spraying. For example, a configuration in which water is sent at high pressure using a wash pump with an induction motor or synchronous motor may be used. When the spray pressure of the wash water is high, including specifications using other means as described above, a water pressure above a certain value, for example, above the spray pressure PE, may be defined as "high pressure."

[0116] In the dishwasher 1, the washing nozzle 34, which sprays water delivered by the washing pump 41, may be configured to include a water distribution mechanism (not shown). The water distribution mechanism switches between the multiple spray nozzles of the washing nozzle 34, specifically, by switching between the multiple flow paths connected to the spray nozzles of the washing nozzle 34. The water distribution mechanism can change the spray range in the washing tub 5 or the spray direction of the washing water. When the dishwasher 1 is configured to include a water distribution mechanism, the dishwasher 1 can more effectively wash and rinse the dishes 7 by switching the spray nozzles during the washing and rinsing processes. For example, the water distribution mechanism switches the flow path each time the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 decreases. In this case, the dishwasher 1 operates the water distribution mechanism to switch the spray nozzle of the washing nozzle 34 in the rinse control M5. For this switching, the dishwasher 1 temporarily reduces the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 to spray pressure PA in the rinse control M5 (T97), and then increases it to spray pressure PD (T98). This allows the water distribution mechanism to be operated without stopping the wash pump 41, switching the spray outlet of the wash nozzle 34, and rinsing the dishes 7 more efficiently in a shorter time. Also, if the dishwasher 1 is configured without a water distribution mechanism, there is no need to temporarily reduce the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 to spray pressure PA in the rinse control M5.

[0117] [3. Effects, etc.] As described above, dishwasher 1 includes washing tub 5 in which dishes 7 are stored, and water supply valve 31 and water supply pipe 32 as a water supply unit that supplies water to washing tub 5. Dishwasher 1 also includes water volume detection unit 45 that detects the volume of wash water supplied to washing tub 5, wash pump 41 that sprays wash water into washing tub 5, and drain pump 42 and drain pipe 35 as a drain unit that drains water from washing tub 5. Dishwasher 1 performs a washing operation that includes a washing process in which wash water is sprayed by wash pump 41, and a rinsing process that follows the washing process. When dishwasher 1 starts the washing process, it first supplies water using the water supply unit, and then, once the volume of wash water reaches a first volume, it sprays using wash pump 41 at a first spray pressure P1. Then, once the volume of wash water reaches a second volume that is greater than the first volume, it sprays using wash pump 41 at a second spray pressure P2 that is higher than the first spray pressure P1.

[0118] According to this, when starting the flushing operation, flushing is performed by the flush pump 41 at the second jet pressure after the amount of flush water reaches the second amount through water supply, and flushing is started by the flush pump 41 at the first jet pressure after the amount of flush water reaches the first amount, which is less than the second amount. Therefore, flushing can be started when flush water has been supplied up to the first amount, which is less than the second amount. Therefore, flushing can be started at an early timing after water supply begins, thereby shortening the flushing time. In addition, flushing is started before the amount of water reaches the second amount, which is expected to have a water-saving effect.

[0119] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 operates the water supply and the wash pump 41 in parallel during the series of operations for washing and rinsing the dishes 7. This significantly reduces the operating time required to wash the dishes 7 compared to when the water supply valve 31, wash pump 41, and drain pump 42 are started and stopped in sequence, thereby improving the convenience of the dishwasher 1.

[0120] During the rinsing process, dishwasher 1 executes a first rinsing process in which washing pump 41 sprays at a third spray pressure and the drainage section drains the water. Then, the water supply section starts supplying water when the wash water has not been completely drained, and after the amount of wash water reaches the third amount, the dishwasher executes a second rinsing process in which washing pump 41 sprays at a fourth spray pressure that is higher than the third spray pressure.

[0121] According to this, in the rinsing step, the dishes 7 can be rinsed by spraying the washing water while replacing the washing water. Therefore, the time required for the rinsing step can be shortened, thereby shortening the washing time. Furthermore, in the first rinsing step, in which water is drained, the water is sprayed at a lower pressure than in the second rinsing step, in which water is not drained, so the water can be drained more quickly. Furthermore, in the second rinsing step, the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 is increased, so the dishes 7 can be rinsed more effectively. This allows the dishes 7 to be rinsed more quickly, thereby shortening the washing time.

[0122] The dishwasher 1 repeatedly executes the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step a preset number of times.

[0123] This allows the dishes 7 to be rinsed in a shorter time while repeatedly replacing the washing water, thereby shortening the washing time.

[0124] The water supply unit of the dishwasher 1 is connected to a hot water supply pipe that can supply hot water. For example, when starting the washing process, the dishwasher 1 may first start the water supply, and then intermittently supply water from the water supply unit and drain water from the drain unit until the temperature of the washing water reaches the set temperature, and then start the washing process after the temperature of the washing water reaches the set temperature.

[0125] In this case, by intermittently supplying and draining water while the temperature of the water supplied to the dishwasher 1 from the water supply pipe is low, dishes 7 can be washed using warm water in a shorter time. Furthermore, the intermittent supply and draining of water before starting the washing process cleans the water passages inside the dishwasher 1, the area around the reservoir 51, and the filter in the reservoir 51. This is expected to increase the amount of dirt captured by the filter, thereby improving cleaning power, and to remove oil film and fine solid dirt remaining inside the dishwasher 1. Therefore, it is expected that stable cleaning power can be achieved without frequent maintenance. Furthermore, since the temperature of the warm water is expected to be sufficiently high when the washing process is started, high cleaning power can be obtained in a short time.

[0126] In the above configuration, the dishwasher 1 may, for example, start supplying water when starting the washing process, and intermittently supply water by the water supply unit and drain water by the drain unit until the temperature of the washing water reaches a set temperature, and start the washing process on the condition that water supply and drainage have been performed a predetermined number of times. The washing process may also be started on the condition that the temperature of the washing water reaches a set temperature while water supply and drainage are performed a predetermined number of times.

[0127] The water supply unit of the dishwasher 1 is connected to a hot water supply pipe that can supply hot water. When starting the washing cycle, the dishwasher 1 first starts water supply, and continues to supply water from the water supply unit until the temperature of the washing water reaches the set temperature. The amount of washing water is maintained at a predetermined level or less by draining the water from the drain unit while the water is being supplied. The washing cycle then begins after the temperature of the washing water reaches the set temperature.

[0128] According to this, while the temperature of the water supplied to the dishwasher 1 from the water supply pipe is low, the amount of washing water is maintained at a predetermined level or less while supplying and draining water. Therefore, while maintaining a small amount of low-temperature water in the washing tub 5, washing begins after waiting until the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply pipe rises. Therefore, dishes 7 can be washed in a shorter time using high-temperature hot water.

[0129] The water supply unit of the dishwasher 1 is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water, and when the dishwasher 1 starts the washing process, it supplies water using the water supply unit, circulates the washing water through the washing water circulation path of the washing tank 5, and drains the water using the drain unit.

[0130] According to this, water is supplied and drained while the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply pipe to the dishwasher 1 is low. Therefore, it is possible to wait until the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply pipe rises, and then start washing the dishes 7 after cleaning the washing water circulation path.

[0131] In dishwasher 1, the spray pressure of wash pump 41 when operating wash pump 41 during water supply at the start of the washing process is lower than the maximum spray pressure of wash pump 41 in the washing process and rinsing process.

[0132] This makes it possible to limit the range over which water sprayed from the washing pump 41 spreads during water supply. This prevents, for example, detergent added by the user to the washing tub 5 from being discharged before washing. Therefore, water can be supplied and drained until the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply pipe to the dishwasher 1 rises, allowing dishes 7 to be washed with warm water without affecting the washing process.

[0133] When dishwasher 1 starts the washing process, while water is being supplied, the drain unit drains water for at least half of the time during which water is being supplied.

[0134] According to this, most of the water supplied from the water supply pipe is drained while waiting for the temperature of the water to rise, so that the dishes 7 can be washed in a shorter time using warm water.

[0135] The water supply unit of dishwasher 1 is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water, and dishwasher 1 is equipped with heater 48 that heats the wash water and water temperature sensor 44 that detects the temperature of the wash water. Dishwasher 1 supplies water using the water supply unit when starting the washing process, and if the temperature of the wash water does not reach the set temperature while the water supply unit is supplying water for a predetermined time, heater 48 heats the water.

[0136] According to this, when the temperature of the water supplied to the washing tub 5 is low, the washing water is heated by the heater 48, so that the tableware 7 can be washed in a shorter time using warm water.

[0137] Dishwasher 1 has a washing tub 5 in which dishes 7 are stored, and performs a washing operation including a washing process in which washing water is sprayed into washing tub 5 by washing pump 41, and a rinsing process following the washing process. In the control method for dishwasher 1, when starting the washing process, the water supply unit starts supplying water to washing tub 5, and once the amount of washing water reaches a first amount, washing pump 41 sprays at a first spray pressure P1. Then, once the amount of washing water reaches a second amount that is greater than the first amount, washing pump 41 sprays at a second spray pressure P2 that is higher than the first spray pressure P1.

[0138] According to this, when starting the flushing operation, flushing is performed by flush pump 41 at the second jet pressure after the amount of flush water has reached the second amount through water supply, and flushing is started by flush pump 41 at the first jet pressure after the amount of flush water has reached the first amount, which is less than the second amount. Therefore, flushing can be started when flush water has been supplied up to the first amount, which is less than the second amount. Therefore, flushing can be started at an earlier timing after water supply begins, thereby shortening the flushing time.

[0139] Dishwasher 1 includes washing tub 5 for accommodating dishes 7, a water supply unit for supplying water to washing tub 5, a water volume detection unit 45 for detecting the volume of washing water supplied to washing tub 5, a washing pump 41 for spraying washing water into washing tub 5, and a drain unit for draining water from washing tub 5. Dishwasher 1 performs a washing operation including a washing step in which washing water is sprayed by washing pump 41, and a rinsing step following the washing step. In the rinsing step, rinsing control M4 is performed multiple times while washing pump 41 is continuously driven, in which the drain unit is operated to drain at least a portion of the water in washing tub 5 and the water supply unit is used to supply water.

[0140] According to this, in the rinsing step, water is drained and supplied while the washing pump 41 is driven, so the time required for rinsing can be shortened, and the washing time can be shortened.

[0141] Dishwasher 1 has water level detection unit 45 that detects the amount of water in washing tub 5. During the rinsing process, dishwasher 1 operates the water supply unit and the drain unit to maintain the amount of water in washing tub 5 at or above a predetermined level while rinsing control M4 is being executed.

[0142] This allows the amount of water in the cleaning tank 5 to be maintained at a predetermined amount or more during the rinsing process, while draining and supplying water. This allows the cleaning pump 41 to maintain a state in which rinsing can be performed, allowing for effective rinsing.

[0143] The rinsing process includes a plurality of rinsing control M4s and a finishing rinsing process that is performed after the rinsing control M4s, and the dishwasher 1 continuously drives the washing pump 41 while performing the plurality of rinsing control M4s.

[0144] According to this, in the rinsing process, rinsing control M4, which drains and supplies water while operating rinse pump 41, is executed multiple times, thereby more effectively rinsing the dishes 7. Furthermore, because rinse pump 41 is continuously driven while rinsing control M4 is executed multiple times, sufficient rinsing can be performed in a short time, and the washing time can be further reduced.

[0145] Dishwasher 1 includes heater 48 for heating wash water and water temperature sensor 44 for detecting the temperature of the wash water. While performing several rinse controls M4, dishwasher 1 does not use heater 48 to heat the wash water if the temperature of the wash water is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature.

[0146] During execution of multiple rinse control M4, if the temperature of the water sprayed by wash pump 41 is equal to or higher than a predetermined water temperature, heater 48 is not used, so energy consumption during rinsing can be reduced.

[0147] Dishwasher 1 includes heater 48 for heating wash water and water temperature sensor 44 for detecting the temperature of the wash water. If dishwasher 1 detects that the temperature of the wash water has fallen below a predetermined temperature while performing rinse control M4 multiple times, dishwasher 1 starts heating using heater 48.

[0148] This allows the temperature of the water sprayed by the wash pump 41 to be maintained while the rinse control M4 is being executed multiple times, thereby enabling sufficient rinsing to be performed in a short time, further shortening the wash time.

[0149] Dishwasher 1 may be configured to include a washing nozzle that sprays wash water into washing tub 5 and a water diversion nozzle that branches wash water to the washing nozzle. Dishwasher 1 can switch the spray pressure of washing pump 41 between multiple stages during the washing process or rinsing process. The spray pressure of washing pump 41 of dishwasher 1 includes at least a switching pressure for switching spray from the washing nozzle to the water diversion nozzle, and a washing spray pressure that is higher than the switching pressure.

[0150] This allows the nozzles to be switched without stopping the washing pump 41 by gradually switching the spray pressure of the washing pump 41. Furthermore, since it is possible to spray at a higher pressure than the spray pressure at which the nozzles are switched, sufficient washing and rinsing can be performed in a short time, and the washing time can be further reduced.

[0151] Dishwasher 1 has water volume detection unit 45 that detects the amount of water in wash tub 5. When dishwasher 1 starts the washing process, it first performs a pipe cleaning process in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by wash pump 41. In the pipe cleaning process, dishwasher 1 maintains the amount of wash water at or below a first predetermined amount by draining the water using the drain unit while water is being supplied. In the rinsing process, dishwasher 1 operates the water supply unit and the drain unit so as to maintain the amount of water in wash tub 5 at or above a second predetermined amount while wash pump 41 is continuously driven. The first predetermined amount of water, which is the amount of water maintained in the pipe cleaning process, is either 0 or L1, and is less than the second predetermined amount of water, L1 or L2, which is the amount of water maintained in the rinsing process.

[0152] According to this, in the pipe cleaning step and the rinsing step, the time required to wash the dishes 7 can be further shortened by supplying and draining water together with the spray from the washing pump 41. The amount of water maintained in the washing tank 5 in the rinsing step is greater than the amount of water maintained in the pipe cleaning step. Therefore, in the pipe cleaning step, the pipes can be effectively cleaned with a small amount of water, and a water-saving effect can be expected. Furthermore, in the rinsing step, rinsing can be performed effectively with a sufficient amount of water without stopping the washing pump 41.

[0153] When starting the washing process, the dishwasher 1 first executes the pipe cleaning process in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by the washing pump 41. The spray pressure PF, which is the maximum spray pressure of the washing pump 41 in the rinsing process, is greater than the spray pressure PA, which is the maximum spray pressure of the washing pump 41 in the pipe cleaning process.

[0154] According to this, in the pipe cleaning step and the rinsing step, the time required to wash the dishes 7 can be further shortened by supplying and draining water together with the spraying by the washing pump 41. And, since the spray pressure of the washing pump 41 in the rinsing step is higher than the spray pressure in the pipe cleaning step, the pipes can be efficiently cleaned with less energy consumption in the pipe cleaning step, and an energy saving effect can be expected. Furthermore, in the rinsing step, rinsing can be performed effectively with a high spray pressure.

[0155] When starting the washing process, dishwasher 1 first performs a pipe cleaning process in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by wash pump 41. Dishwasher 1 can switch the set drive speed of wash pump 41 in stages during the pipe cleaning process. Dishwasher 1 can switch the set drive speed of wash pump 41 in stages during the rinsing process. The set drive speed of wash pump 41 during the rinsing process is switched in six stages, for example, corresponding to the spray pressures PA to PF. The pipe cleaning process has two switching stages: spray pressure PA and spray pressure PC. Therefore, the set drive speed of wash pump 41 during the rinsing process has more switching stages than the pipe cleaning process.

[0156] According to this, in the pipe cleaning process and the rinsing process, the time required to wash the dishes 7 can be further shortened by supplying and draining water together with spraying by the wash pump 41. Then, by gradually switching the set drive rotation speed of the wash pump 41, appropriate operation of the wash pump 41 can be achieved. That is, since there are more stages in which the set drive rotation speed of the wash pump 41 is switched in the rinsing process than in the pipe cleaning process, the pipes can be efficiently cleaned with simple control in the pipe cleaning process, and rinsing can be effectively performed in the rinsing process.

[0157] Dishwasher 1 has a water level detection unit 45 that detects the amount of water in washing tub 5. When dishwasher 1 starts the washing process, it first performs a pipe cleaning process in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by washing pump 41. In the pipe cleaning process, dishwasher 1 maintains the amount of washing water at or below a predetermined amount by draining the water using the drain unit while water is being supplied. The amount of water in washing tub 5 in the rinsing process is greater than the amount of water maintained in washing tub 5 in the pipe cleaning process.

[0158] According to this, in the pipe cleaning step and the rinsing step, the time required to wash the dishes 7 can be further shortened by supplying and draining water together with the spray from the washing pump 41. The amount of water maintained in the washing tank 5 in the rinsing step is greater than the amount of water maintained in the pipe cleaning step. Therefore, in the pipe cleaning step, the pipes can be effectively cleaned with a small amount of water, and a water-saving effect can be expected. Furthermore, in the rinsing step, rinsing can be performed effectively with a sufficient amount of water without stopping the washing pump 41.

[0159] (Other embodiments) As described above, the first embodiment and the modified examples have been described as examples disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to this, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the first embodiment to create new embodiments. Therefore, other embodiments will be exemplified below.

[0160] The configuration of dishwasher 1 described in the above embodiment is one example. For example, dishwasher 1 may be equipped with a temperature sensor that directly measures or detects the temperature of water flowing into washing tub 5 via water supply valve 31. Dishwasher 1 may also be equipped with a timer function that automatically starts the washing operation at a time set by the user. Dishwasher 1 may also be equipped with a device that automatically dispenses washing detergent into washing tub 5. Dishwasher 1 is not limited to a built-in dishwasher, and may also be a tabletop dishwasher.

[0161] The configuration of dishwasher 1 shown in FIG. 2 is merely an example, and the specific implementation is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each unit individually; it is of course possible to configure the system so that a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of each unit. Furthermore, some of the functions realized by software in the above-described embodiment may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented by software. Furthermore, dishwasher 1 may be configured to include drive units and detection units not shown in FIG. 2, and these drive units and detection units may be controlled by control unit 11. In addition, the specific details of the configuration of dishwasher 1 may be changed as desired without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0162] Furthermore, the step units of the operation shown in Figure 3 are divided according to the main processing content to make the operation easier to understand, and the operation is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. The operation may be divided into more step units depending on the processing content. Furthermore, one step unit may be divided so that it includes more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be changed as appropriate within the scope that does not interfere with the purpose of this disclosure.

[0163] Although the dishwasher 1 described in the above embodiment switches the spray pressure of the wash pump 41 to improve the washing efficiency and washing effect, this is not limited to this. For example, the dishwasher 1 may control the amount of sprayed wash water instead of the spray pressure. In the above embodiment, the dishwasher 1 may also be controlled by replacing the spray pressure with the spray amount.

[0164] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. may be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0165] [Configuration supported by the above embodiment] The above embodiment supports the following configurations.

[0166] (Addendum) (Technology 1) A dishwasher comprising a washing tank for accommodating items to be washed, a water supply unit for supplying water to the washing tank, a water volume detection unit for detecting the volume of washing water being supplied to the washing tank, a washing pump for spraying the washing water into the washing tank, and a drainage unit for draining the water from the washing tank, and which carries out washing operations including a washing step in which the washing water is sprayed by the washing pump, and a rinsing step after the washing step, wherein when starting the washing step, water is first supplied by the water supply unit, and after the volume of the washing water reaches a first volume, the washing pump sprays at a first spray pressure, and after the volume of the washing water reaches a second volume that is higher than the first volume, the washing pump sprays at a second spray pressure that is higher than the first spray pressure.

[0167] As a result, when starting the flushing operation, flushing is performed at the second spray pressure after the amount of flush water reaches the second amount through water supply, and flushing begins at the first spray pressure after the amount of flush water reaches the first amount, which is less than the second amount.In other words, flushing can be started earlier after water supply begins, thereby shortening the flushing time.In addition, since flushing begins before the amount of water reaches the second amount, water-saving effects can be expected.

[0168] (Technology 2) A dishwasher according to Technology 1, in which, during the rinsing process, a first rinsing process is carried out in which the washing pump sprays at a third spray pressure and the draining section drains the water, and the water supply section starts supplying water when the washing water has not been completely drained, and after the amount of washing water reaches a third amount, a second rinsing process is carried out in which the washing pump sprays at a fourth spray pressure that is higher than the third spray pressure.

[0169] This allows the objects to be rinsed by spraying the cleaning water while replacing it during the rinsing process. Furthermore, in the first rinsing process, which involves draining the water, the water is sprayed at a lower pressure than in the second rinsing process, which does not involve draining the water, allowing for quicker drainage, and in the second rinsing process, the spray pressure of the cleaning pump is increased to rinse the objects more effectively. This allows the objects to be rinsed efficiently in a shorter time, shortening the cleaning time.

[0170] (Technology 3) The dishwasher according to Technology 2, wherein the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step are repeatedly performed a preset number of times.

[0171] This allows the objects to be rinsed in a shorter time while repeatedly replacing the cleaning water, thereby shortening the cleaning time.

[0172] (Technology 4) A dishwasher according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 3, wherein the water supply unit is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water, and when the washing process is started, water supply is first started, and water supply by the water supply unit and drainage by the drainage unit are performed intermittently until the temperature of the washing water reaches a set temperature, and the washing process is started after the temperature of the washing water reaches the set temperature.

[0173] This allows the object to be washed in a shorter time using warm water by supplying and draining water while the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply pipe is low.

[0174] (Technology 5) A dishwasher according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 4, in which the water supply unit is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water, and the water supply is started first when the washing process is started, and the water supply unit continues to supply water until the temperature of the washing water reaches a set temperature, and the amount of the washing water is maintained at or below a predetermined amount by draining the water using the drain unit while the water is being supplied, and the washing process is started after the temperature of the washing water reaches the set temperature.

[0175] This allows water to be supplied and drained while maintaining the amount of washing water below a predetermined level while the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply pipe is low. Therefore, while keeping the amount of low-temperature water in the washing tank small, washing can begin after waiting until the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply pipe rises. Therefore, the items to be washed can be washed in a shorter time using warm water.

[0176] (Technology 6) A dishwasher according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 5, wherein the water supply unit is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water, and when the washing process is started, the water supply unit supplies water, the washing water is circulated in a washing water circulation path in the washing tank, and the water is drained by the drain unit.

[0177] This allows water to be supplied and drained while the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply pipe is low, so that washing of the object to be washed can begin after waiting until the temperature of the water supplied from the water supply pipe rises and the washing water circulation path is cleaned.

[0178] (Technology 7) A dishwasher according to Technology 5 or Technology 6, wherein the spray pressure of the washing pump when operating the washing pump during water supply at the start of the washing process is lower than the maximum spray pressure of the washing pump during the washing process and the rinsing process.

[0179] This reduces the area where the water sprayed by the washing pump spreads during water supply. This prevents, for example, detergent added by the user from being discharged before washing. Therefore, water can be supplied and drained until the temperature of the water supplied to the dishwasher from the water supply pipe rises, without affecting the washing process, and items to be washed can be washed with warm water.

[0180] (Technology 8) A dishwasher according to any one of Technology 5 to Technology 7, wherein while water is being supplied at the start of the washing process, the drain section drains water for more than half of the time that the water is being supplied.

[0181] This allows most of the water supplied from the water supply pipe to be drained while waiting for the temperature of the water to rise, so that the items to be washed can be washed using warm water in a shorter time.

[0182] (Technology 9) A dishwasher according to any one of Technology 1 to Technology 8, wherein the water supply unit is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water, and is provided with a heating unit that heats the wash water and a water temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the wash water, and wherein water is supplied by the water supply unit when the wash process is started, and if the temperature of the wash water does not reach a set temperature while the water supply unit is supplying water for a predetermined time, heating is performed by the heating unit.

[0183] This allows the supplied water to be heated, so that the object to be washed can be washed in a shorter time using warm water.

[0184] (Technology 10) A dishwasher control method that includes a washing tank that contains items to be washed and that performs washing operations including a washing process in which washing water is sprayed into the washing tank by a washing pump and a rinsing process that follows the washing process, wherein, when starting the washing process, the water supply unit starts supplying water to the washing tank, the washing pump sprays the water at a first spray pressure after the amount of washing water reaches a first amount, and the washing pump sprays the water at a second spray pressure that is higher than the first spray pressure after the amount of washing water reaches a second amount that is higher than the first amount.

[0185] As a result, when starting the flushing operation, flushing is performed at the second spray pressure after the amount of flush water has reached the second amount through water supply, and flushing begins at the first spray pressure after the amount of flush water has reached the first amount, which is less than the second amount.In other words, flushing can be started earlier after water supply begins, thereby shortening the flushing time.

[0186] (Technology 11) A dishwasher comprising a washing tank for accommodating items to be washed, a water supply unit for supplying water to the washing tank, a water volume detection unit for detecting the volume of washing water being supplied to the washing tank, a washing pump for spraying the washing water into the washing tank, and a drainage unit for draining water from the washing tank, the dishwasher performing a washing operation including a washing step in which the washing water is sprayed by the washing pump, and a rinsing step after the washing step, and performing rinsing control in which the drainage unit is operated to drain at least a portion of the water in the washing tank and the water supply unit is used to supply water, multiple times during the period in which the washing pump is continuously driven.

[0187] As a result, in the rinsing process after the object to be washed, water is drained and supplied while the washing pump is running, so the time required for rinsing can be shortened, and the washing time can be shortened.

[0188] (Technology 12) A dishwasher as described in Technology 11, which has a water volume detection unit that detects the amount of water in the washing tank, and operates the water supply unit and the drain unit so as to maintain the water volume in the washing tank at or above a predetermined amount while the rinsing control is being executed during the rinsing process.

[0189] This allows the amount of water in the washing tank to be maintained at a predetermined level or higher during the rinsing process, while draining and supplying water, thereby maintaining a state in which rinsing can be performed using the washing pump and enabling effective rinsing.

[0190] (Technology 13) The dishwasher described in Technology 11 or Technology 12, wherein the rinse process includes multiple rinse controls and a rinse finishing process performed after the rinse controls, and the washing pump is continuously driven while performing multiple rinse controls.

[0191] This allows for more effective rinsing of the objects to be washed by repeatedly executing rinsing control, which drains and supplies water while operating the wash pump, during the rinsing process. Furthermore, because the wash pump is continuously driven during multiple executions of rinsing control, sufficient rinsing can be performed in a short time, further shortening the washing time.

[0192] (Technology 14) A dishwasher as described in Technology 13, which is equipped with a heating unit that heats the cleaning water and a water temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the cleaning water, and which does not heat the cleaning water using the heating unit if the temperature of the cleaning water is above a predetermined temperature while performing the rinse control several times.

[0193] As a result, when the temperature of the water sprayed by the wash pump is equal to or higher than a predetermined water temperature while rinsing control is being performed multiple times, the heating unit is not used, thereby reducing energy consumption during rinsing.

[0194] (Technology 15) A dishwasher as described in Technology 13, which is equipped with a heating unit that heats the cleaning water and a water temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the cleaning water, and which performs heating using the heating unit if it detects that the temperature of the cleaning water has fallen below a predetermined water temperature while performing the rinse control multiple times.

[0195] This allows the temperature of the water sprayed by the wash pump to be maintained while multiple rinse controls are being performed, allowing for sufficient rinsing in a short period of time, further reducing the wash time.

[0196] (Technology 16) A dishwasher as described in any of technologies 11 to 15, comprising a washing nozzle that sprays the washing water into the washing tank and a water distribution mechanism that branches the washing water to the washing nozzle, wherein the spray pressure of the washing pump can be switched between multiple stages during the washing process or the rinsing process, and the spray pressure of the washing pump includes at least a switching pressure for operating the water distribution mechanism to switch the spray to the washing nozzle, and a washing spray pressure that is higher than the switching pressure.

[0197] This allows the nozzles to be switched without stopping the washing pump by gradually switching the spray pressure of the washing pump.In addition, since it is possible to spray at a higher pressure than the spray pressure at which the nozzles are switched, sufficient washing and rinsing can be performed in a short time, further shortening the washing time.

[0198] (Technology 17) A dishwasher as described in any of technologies 11 to 16, which has a water volume detection unit that detects the amount of water in the washing tank, and when starting the washing process, first performs a pipe cleaning process in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by the washing pump, and in the pipe cleaning process, the amount of washing water is maintained at or below a first predetermined amount by draining the water using the drain unit while water is being supplied, and in the rinsing process, the water supply unit and the drain unit are operated so as to maintain the water in the washing tank at or above a second predetermined amount while the washing pump is continuously driven, and the first predetermined amount of water maintained in the pipe cleaning process is less than the second predetermined amount of water maintained in the rinsing process.

[0199] As a result, in the pipe cleaning process and rinsing process, water is supplied and drained along with the spray from the cleaning pump, which further reduces the time required to clean the objects. The amount of water maintained in the cleaning tank during the rinsing process is greater than the amount of water maintained during the pipe cleaning process. Therefore, the pipes can be effectively cleaned with a small amount of water during the pipe cleaning process, which is expected to have a water-saving effect. Furthermore, in the rinsing process, rinsing can be performed effectively with a sufficient amount of water without stopping the cleaning pump.

[0200] (Technology 18) A dishwasher as described in any one of technologies 11 to 17, in which, when starting the washing process, a pipe washing process is first carried out in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by the washing pump, and the maximum spray pressure of the washing pump in the rinsing process is greater than the maximum spray pressure of the washing pump in the pipe washing process.

[0201] As a result, in the pipe cleaning process and rinsing process, water is supplied and drained along with the spray from the cleaning pump, which further reduces the time required to clean the objects. Furthermore, because the spray pressure of the cleaning pump in the rinsing process is higher than the spray pressure in the pipe cleaning process, the pipes can be cleaned efficiently with less energy consumption in the pipe cleaning process, which is expected to have an energy-saving effect. Furthermore, in the rinsing process, rinsing can be performed effectively with a high spray pressure.

[0202] (Technology 19) A dishwasher as described in any one of technologies 11 to 18, wherein when starting the washing process, a pipe washing process is first carried out in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by the washing pump, and the set drive speed of the washing pump can be switched in stages during the pipe washing process, and the set drive speed of the washing pump can be switched in stages during the rinsing process, and the number of stages for switching the set drive speed of the washing pump during the rinsing process is greater than the number of stages for switching during the pipe washing process.

[0203] As a result, in the pipe cleaning process and rinsing process, the time required to clean the objects can be further shortened by supplying and draining water along with spraying from the cleaning pump. Furthermore, by gradually switching the set drive speed of the cleaning pump, appropriate operation of the cleaning pump can be achieved. In other words, since the number of stages for switching the set drive speed of the cleaning pump in the rinsing process is greater than the number of stages for switching in the pipe cleaning process, the pipes can be efficiently cleaned with simple control in the pipe cleaning process, and rinsing can be effectively performed in the rinsing process.

[0204] (Technology 20) A dishwasher as described in any of technologies 11 to 19, which has a water volume detection unit that detects the amount of water in the washing tank, and when starting the washing process, first performs a pipe cleaning process in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by the washing pump, and in the pipe cleaning process, the amount of washing water is maintained below a predetermined amount by draining it by the drain unit while water is being supplied, and the amount of water in the washing tank in the rinsing process is greater than the amount of water in the washing tank maintained in the pipe cleaning process.

[0205] As a result, in the pipe cleaning process and rinsing process, water is supplied and drained along with the spray from the cleaning pump, which further reduces the time required to clean the objects. The amount of water maintained in the cleaning tank during the rinsing process is greater than the amount of water maintained during the pipe cleaning process. Therefore, the pipes can be effectively cleaned with a small amount of water during the pipe cleaning process, which is expected to have a water-saving effect. Furthermore, in the rinsing process, rinsing can be performed effectively with a sufficient amount of water without stopping the cleaning pump.

[0206] (Technology 21) A dishwasher comprising a washing tank for accommodating items to be washed, a water supply unit for supplying water to the washing tank, a water volume detection unit for detecting the volume of washing water being supplied to the washing tank, a washing pump for spraying the washing water into the washing tank, and a drainage unit for draining the water from the washing tank, and comprising a rinse course for performing a rinse operation including a rinse step in which the washing water is sprayed by the washing pump, and a rinse finishing step performed at the end of the rinse step, wherein, when starting the rinse step, water is first supplied by the water supply unit, and after the volume of the washing water reaches a first volume, the washing pump sprays at a first spray pressure, and after the volume of the washing water reaches a second volume that is greater than the first volume, the washing pump sprays at a second spray pressure that is higher than the first spray pressure.

[0207] This allows the user to select the rinse course when rinsing only is desired, thereby shortening the wash time when the wash process is not required. When starting the rinse operation, rinsing is performed at the second spray pressure after the amount of wash water reaches the second amount through water supply, and rinsing begins at the first spray pressure after the amount of wash water reaches the first amount, which is less than the second amount. In other words, the rinse operation can be started earlier after water supply begins, thereby shortening the wash time. Furthermore, rinsing begins before the amount of water reaches the second amount, which is expected to have a water-saving effect.

[0208] (Technology 22) A dishwasher as described in Technology 21, in which, during the rinsing process, a first rinsing process is carried out in which the washing pump sprays at a third spray pressure and the draining section drains the water, and the water supply section starts supplying water when the washing water has not been completely drained, and after the amount of washing water reaches a third amount, a second rinsing process is carried out in which the washing pump sprays at a fourth spray pressure that is higher than the third spray pressure.

[0209] This allows the objects to be rinsed by spraying the cleaning water while replacing it during the rinsing process. Furthermore, in the first rinsing process, which involves draining the water, the water is sprayed at a lower pressure than in the second rinsing process, which does not involve draining the water, allowing for quicker drainage, and in the second rinsing process, the spray pressure of the cleaning pump is increased to rinse the objects more effectively. This allows the objects to be rinsed efficiently in a shorter time, shortening the cleaning time.

[0210] (Technology 23) The dishwasher according to Technology 21 or 22, wherein the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step are repeated a preset number of times, and then the dishwasher proceeds to the rinsing finishing step.

[0211] This allows the objects to be rinsed in a shorter time while repeatedly replacing the cleaning water, thereby shortening the cleaning time.

[0212] (Technology 24) A dishwasher as described in any one of technologies 21 to 23, in which, in the rinsing finishing step, after the second rinsing step has been performed, the water supply unit starts supplying water when the washing water has been completely drained, and after the amount of washing water reaches a third amount, the washing pump sprays at a fourth spray pressure that is higher than the third spray pressure, and then the washing pump sprays at a fifth spray pressure that is higher than the fourth spray pressure, and then the rinsing finishing step is completed.

[0213] As a result, in the rinsing finishing step, the washing water is sprayed at the maximum spray pressure in the rinsing step, so that even in a control method that only performs the rinsing operation, the washing power is not reduced and the washing time can be shortened.

[0214] (Technology 25) A dishwasher control method that includes a washing tank that contains items to be washed and that performs a rinsing operation including a rinsing step in which washing water is sprayed into the washing tank by a washing pump and a finishing rinse step that is performed at the end of the rinsing step, in which, in the finishing rinse step, the water supply unit starts supplying water when the washing water has been completely drained, and after the amount of washing water reaches a predetermined amount, the washing pump sprays at a spray pressure that is higher than the maximum spray pressure of the spray performed in the rinsing operation before the finishing rinse step.

[0215] As a result, in the rinsing finishing step, the washing water is sprayed at the maximum spray pressure in the rinsing step, so that even in a control method that only performs the rinsing operation, the washing power is not reduced and the washing time can be shortened.

[0216] (Technology 26) A dishwasher comprising a washing tank for accommodating items to be washed, a water supply unit for supplying water to the washing tank, a water volume detection unit for detecting the volume of washing water being supplied to the washing tank, a washing pump for spraying the washing water into the washing tank, and a drainage unit for draining the water from the washing tank, and comprising a rinse course for performing a rinse operation including a rinse step in which the washing water is sprayed by the washing pump, and a rinse finishing step after the rinse step, wherein in the rinse step, a rinse control is performed multiple times while the washing pump is continuously driven, in which the drainage unit is operated to drain at least a portion of the water in the washing tank and water is supplied by the water supply unit.

[0217] This allows you to select the rinse course when you only want to rinse, and shortens the washing time when the washing process is not required. Also, during the rinsing process, water is drained and supplied while the washing pump is running, so the time required for rinsing can be shortened, and the washing time can be shortened.

[0218] (Technology 27) A dishwasher as described in Technology 26, which has a water volume detection unit that detects the amount of water in the washing tank, and operates the water supply unit and the drain unit so as to maintain the water volume in the washing tank at or above a predetermined amount while the rinsing control is being executed during the rinsing process.

[0219] This allows the amount of water in the washing tank to be maintained at a predetermined level or higher during the rinsing process, while draining and supplying water, thereby maintaining a state in which rinsing can be performed using the washing pump and enabling effective rinsing.

[0220] (Technology 28) The rinsing process includes multiple rinse controls and a rinse finishing process performed after the rinse controls, and the washing pump is continuously driven while performing multiple rinse controls. A dishwasher as described in Technology 26 or Technology 27.

[0221] This allows for more effective rinsing of the objects to be washed by repeatedly executing rinsing control, which drains and supplies water while operating the wash pump, during the rinsing process. Furthermore, because the wash pump is continuously driven during multiple executions of rinsing control, sufficient rinsing can be performed in a short time, further shortening the washing time. [Industrial Applicability]

[0222] The present disclosure can be applied to dishwashers that wash dishes. Specifically, the present disclosure can be applied to built-in dishwashers as well as countertop dishwashers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0223] 1 dishwasher 5 Cleaning tank 6 Dish basket 7. Tableware (to be washed) 10 Control device 11 Control section 12 Drive circuit 31 Water supply valve (water supply section) 32 Water supply pipe (water supply part) 33 Cleaning water pipe 34 Cleaning nozzle 35 Drain pipe (drainage part) 36 Piping 41 Cleaning pump 42 Drainage pump (drainage section) 44 Water temperature sensor (water temperature detection part) 45 Water volume detection unit 47 Operation Panel 48 Heater (heating part) 49 Blower fan 51 Reservoir

Claims

1. a cleaning tank in which the object to be cleaned is accommodated; a water supply unit that supplies water to the cleaning tank; a water volume detection unit that detects the volume of cleaning water supplied to the cleaning tank; a cleaning pump that injects the cleaning water into the cleaning tank; a drainage section for draining water from the cleaning tank, A cleaning operation is carried out, the cleaning operation including a cleaning step of spraying the cleaning water by the cleaning pump and a rinsing step after the cleaning step; When starting the washing process, first, water is supplied by the water supply unit, and after the amount of washing water reaches a first amount, the washing pump sprays the water at a first spray pressure, and after the amount of washing water reaches a second amount that is greater than the first amount, the washing pump sprays the water at a second spray pressure that is higher than the first spray pressure. dishwasher.

2. In the rinsing step, A first rinsing step is performed in which spraying by the cleaning pump at a third spray pressure and draining by the drainage unit are performed; The water supply unit starts supplying water when the flushing water has not been completely drained.

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein a second rinsing step is performed in which the washing pump sprays the washing water at a fourth spray pressure higher than the third spray pressure after the amount of the washing water reaches a third amount.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 2, wherein the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step are repeatedly performed a preset number of times.

4. the water supply unit is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water; 2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein when the washing process is started, water supply is first started, water supply by the water supply unit and drainage by the drainage unit are performed intermittently until the temperature of the washing water reaches a set temperature, and the washing process is started after the temperature of the washing water reaches the set temperature.

5. the water supply unit is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water; 2. The dishwasher of claim 1, wherein when the washing process is started, water supply is first started, the water supply unit continues to supply water until the temperature of the washing water reaches a set temperature, and the amount of washing water is maintained at or below a predetermined amount by draining the water using the drain unit while water is being supplied, and the washing process is started after the temperature of the washing water reaches the set temperature.

6. the water supply unit is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water; 2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein, when the washing process is started, the water supply unit supplies water, the washing water is circulated through the washing water circulation path of the washing tank, and the drain unit drains water.

7. 7. The dishwasher according to claim 5, wherein the spray pressure of the wash pump when the wash pump is operated during water supply at the start of the washing process is lower than the maximum spray pressure of the wash pump during the washing process and the rinsing process.

8. 7. The dishwasher according to claim 5, wherein while water is being supplied at the start of the washing step, the drain section drains water for at least half of the time during which the water is being supplied.

9. the water supply unit is connected to a hot water supply pipe capable of supplying hot water; a heating unit that heats the cleaning water; a water temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the cleaning water, 2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein the water supply unit supplies water when the washing process is started, and if the temperature of the washing water does not reach a set temperature while the water supply unit supplies water for a predetermined period of time, the heating unit heats the washing water.

10. A dishwasher that includes a washing tank that contains items to be washed, and that performs a washing operation including a washing step in which washing water is sprayed into the washing tank by a washing pump, and a rinsing step that follows the washing step, When starting the cleaning process, a water supply unit starts supplying water to the cleaning tank; After the amount of the cleaning water reaches a first amount, the cleaning pump sprays the cleaning water at a first spray pressure; After the amount of the cleaning water reaches a second amount that is greater than the first amount, the cleaning pump sprays the cleaning water at a second spray pressure that is higher than the first spray pressure. How to control a dishwasher.

11. a cleaning tank in which the object to be cleaned is accommodated; a water supply unit that supplies water to the cleaning tank; a water volume detection unit that detects the volume of cleaning water supplied to the cleaning tank; a cleaning pump that injects the cleaning water into the cleaning tank; a drainage section for draining water from the cleaning tank, A cleaning operation is carried out, the cleaning operation including a cleaning step of spraying the cleaning water by the cleaning pump and a rinsing step after the cleaning step; In the rinsing step, rinsing control is performed multiple times while the washing pump is continuously driven, in which the drain unit is operated to drain at least a portion of the water in the washing tank and the water supply unit is used to supply water. dishwasher.

12. a water level detection unit that detects the amount of water in the cleaning tank; The dishwasher according to claim 11, wherein, during the rinsing step, the water supply unit and the drain unit are operated so as to maintain the amount of water in the washing tub at or above a predetermined amount while the rinsing control is being performed.

13. The rinsing step includes a plurality of rinsing control steps and a finishing rinsing step performed after the rinsing control steps, The dishwasher according to claim 11, wherein the washing pump is continuously driven while the rinse control is performed multiple times.

14. The washing machine is provided with a heating unit that heats the washing water and a water temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the washing water, The dishwasher according to claim 13, wherein heating by the heating unit is not performed while the temperature of the wash water is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature during several cycles of the rinsing control.

15. The washing machine is provided with a heating unit that heats the washing water and a water temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of the washing water, The dishwasher according to claim 13, wherein heating is performed by the heating unit when it is detected that the temperature of the wash water has fallen below a predetermined temperature while the rinsing control is performed multiple times.

16. a washing nozzle for spraying the washing water into the washing tank; and a water distribution mechanism for branching the washing water to the washing nozzle, In the washing step or the rinsing step, the spray pressure of the washing pump can be switched among a plurality of stages, and the spray pressure of the washing pump includes at least a switching pressure for operating the water distribution mechanism to switch the spray to the washing nozzle, and a washing spray pressure higher than the switching pressure.

12. The dishwasher of claim 11.

17. a water level detection unit that detects the amount of water in the cleaning tank; When starting the cleaning process, a pipe cleaning process is first performed in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by the cleaning pump; In the pipe cleaning step, the amount of cleaning water is maintained at or below a first predetermined amount by draining the cleaning water through the drainage unit during water supply; In the rinsing step, the water supply unit and the drain unit are operated so as to maintain the amount of water in the cleaning tank at or above a second predetermined amount while the cleaning pump is continuously driven; The dishwasher of claim 11, wherein the first predetermined amount of water maintained in the pipe cleaning step is less than the second predetermined amount of water maintained in the rinsing step.

18. When starting the cleaning process, a pipe cleaning process is first performed in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by the cleaning pump; The dishwasher according to claim 11, wherein the maximum injection pressure of the washing pump in the rinsing step is greater than the maximum injection pressure of the washing pump in the pipe cleaning step.

19. When starting the cleaning process, a pipe cleaning process is first performed in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by the cleaning pump; The set driving rotation speed of the cleaning pump can be switched in stages during the pipe cleaning process, In the rinsing step, the set driving rotation speed of the washing pump can be changed in stages, The dishwasher according to claim 11, wherein the number of switching stages of the set driving rotation speed of the washing pump in the rinsing step is greater than the number of switching stages in the pipe cleaning step.

20. a water level detection unit that detects the amount of water in the cleaning tank; When starting the cleaning process, a pipe cleaning process is first performed in which water is supplied by the water supply unit and sprayed by the cleaning pump; In the pipe cleaning step, the amount of cleaning water is maintained at or below a predetermined amount by draining the cleaning water through the drainage unit during water supply; The dishwasher according to claim 11, wherein the amount of water in the washing tank during the rinsing step is greater than the amount of water maintained in the washing tank during the pipe cleaning step.

21. a cleaning tank in which the object to be cleaned is accommodated; a water supply unit that supplies water to the cleaning tank; a water volume detection unit that detects the volume of cleaning water supplied to the cleaning tank; a cleaning pump that injects the cleaning water into the cleaning tank; a drainage section for draining water from the cleaning tank, a rinse course that performs a rinse operation including a rinse step in which the wash water is sprayed by the wash pump and a rinse finishing step that is performed at the end of the rinse step; When starting the rinsing step, first, water is supplied by the water supply unit, and after the amount of the cleaning water reaches a first amount, the cleaning pump sprays the cleaning water at a first spray pressure, and after the amount of the cleaning water reaches a second amount that is greater than the first amount, the cleaning pump sprays the cleaning water at a second spray pressure that is higher than the first spray pressure. dishwasher.

22. In the rinsing step, A first rinsing step is performed in which spraying by the cleaning pump at a third spray pressure and draining by the drainage unit are performed; The water supply unit starts supplying water when the flushing water has not been completely drained. The dishwasher according to claim 21, wherein a second rinse step is performed in which the wash pump sprays the wash water at a fourth spray pressure higher than the third spray pressure after the amount of the wash water reaches a third amount.

23. 23. The dishwasher according to claim 22, wherein the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step are repeated a preset number of times, and then the dishwasher proceeds to the finishing rinsing step.

24. In the rinsing finishing step, After the second rinsing step is performed, the water supply unit starts supplying water in a state where the cleaning water is completely drained, 23. The dishwasher of claim 22, wherein after the amount of washing water reaches a third amount, the washing pump sprays at a fourth spray pressure higher than the third spray pressure, and then the washing pump sprays at a fifth spray pressure higher than the fourth spray pressure, before terminating the rinsing step.

25. A dishwasher that has a washing tank in which items to be washed are stored and that performs a rinsing operation including a rinsing step in which washing water is sprayed into the washing tank by a washing pump and a finishing rinsing step that is performed at the end of the rinsing step, In the rinsing finishing step, water supply by the water supply unit is started in a state where the washing water is completely drained, This dishwasher control method includes, after the amount of washing water reaches a predetermined amount, spraying by the washing pump at a spray pressure higher than the maximum spray pressure of the spray performed in the rinsing operation before the rinsing finishing step.

26. a cleaning tank in which the object to be cleaned is accommodated; a water supply unit that supplies water to the cleaning tank; a water volume detection unit that detects the volume of cleaning water supplied to the cleaning tank; a cleaning pump that injects the cleaning water into the cleaning tank; a drainage section for draining water from the cleaning tank, a rinsing course that performs a rinsing operation including a rinsing step in which the washing water is sprayed by the washing pump and a finishing rinsing step that follows the rinsing step; In the rinsing step, rinsing control is performed multiple times while the washing pump is continuously driven, in which the drain unit is operated to drain at least a portion of the water in the washing tank and the water supply unit is used to supply water. dishwasher.

27. a water level detection unit that detects the amount of water in the cleaning tank; The dishwasher according to claim 26, wherein, during the rinsing step, the water supply unit and the drain unit are operated so as to maintain the amount of water in the washing tub at or above a predetermined amount while the rinsing control is being performed.

28. The rinsing step includes a plurality of rinsing control steps and a finishing rinsing step performed after the rinsing control steps, 27. The dishwasher of claim 26, wherein the washing pump is continuously driven during multiple rinse control operations.

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