Dishwasher

Abstract

To provide a dishwasher reducing a period when the dishwasher is not usable due to maintenance of a detergent supply passage, to provide a method for controlling a dishwasher, and to provide a program.SOLUTION: A dishwasher incudes: a washing tank; a detergent tank capable of storing liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank; and a maintenance part executing a maintenance operation for washing a detergent supply passage supplying the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank into the washing tank with the liquid stored in the detergent tank. The maintenance part reduces an execution time for the maintenance operation when a liquid level in the detergent tank is reduced to a prescribed reference value or lower during the maintenance operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for automatically dispensing a laundry treatment agent stored in a tank into a water tub. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-045484 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides a dishwasher, a dishwasher control method, and a program that can shorten the period during which the dishwasher cannot be used due to maintenance of a detergent supply passage. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The dishwasher of the present disclosure comprises a washing tub, a detergent tank capable of storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tub, and a maintenance unit that performs a maintenance operation to clean a detergent supply path that supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank into the washing tub with liquid stored in the detergent tank, and the maintenance unit shortens the execution time of the maintenance operation if the liquid level in the detergent tank drops below a predetermined reference value during the maintenance operation.

[0006] In addition, the dishwasher control method of the present disclosure is a control method for a dishwasher that includes a washing tub and a detergent tank that can store liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tub, and performs a maintenance operation to clean a detergent supply path that supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank into the washing tub with liquid stored in the detergent tank, and if the liquid level in the detergent tank drops below a predetermined reference value during the maintenance operation, the execution time of the maintenance operation is shortened.

[0007] In addition, the program disclosed herein causes a processor of a dishwasher having a washing tub and a detergent tank capable of storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tub to function as a maintenance unit that performs a maintenance operation to clean a detergent supply path that supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank into the washing tub with liquid stored in the detergent tank, and if the liquid level in the detergent tank drops below a predetermined reference value during the maintenance operation, the maintenance unit shortens the execution time of the maintenance operation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The dishwasher, dishwasher control method, and program disclosed herein can reduce the time required for maintenance operations based on the liquid level in the detergent tank, thereby shortening the period during which the dishwasher is unavailable due to maintenance of the detergent supply path. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a first embodiment; [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a first embodiment; [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a front view of a detergent tank according to a first embodiment; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a front view of a detergent tank according to a first embodiment; [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a front view of a detergent tank according to a first embodiment; [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a range in which the magnetic force of a magnetic body is detected in the first embodiment; [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram showing the correspondence relationship between the position of the magnetic body, the pattern of the detection signal of the magnetic sensor unit, and the remaining amount of liquid detergent detected by the control device in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 shows a configuration of a control system of a control device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart showing the operation of the dishwasher during a first maintenance operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the dishwasher during the second maintenance operation in the first embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the dishwasher during the third maintenance operation in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time the inventors conceived the present disclosure, there were dishwashers that supplied liquid detergent stored in a detergent tank to a wash tub. In these types of dishwashers, the detergent supply passage through which liquid detergent is supplied from the detergent tank to the wash tub can become clogged due to chemical reactions in the liquid detergent or mixing of different types of liquid detergent. Therefore, the dishwashers are configured to perform maintenance to unclog the passage. However, the inventors discovered a problem with conventional dishwashers: maintenance is sometimes performed for an unnecessarily long period of time, which can result in the dishwasher being unavailable for a long period of time. To solve this problem, the inventors came up with the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides a dishwasher, a dishwasher control method, and a program that can shorten the period during which the dishwasher cannot be used due to maintenance of the detergent supply path.

[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.Configuration] [1-1-1. Overall structure of the dishwasher] Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of dishwasher 1. Figs. 2 and 3 are schematic front views of dishwasher 1. As shown in Fig. 1, a door body 3 is attached to washing tub 2. In Figs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, the front is the direction in which door body 3 and washing tub 2 are pulled out, and the rear is the direction in which washing tub 2 is stored and door body 3 is closed. In addition, the opening side of washing tub 2 of dishwasher 1 is the upper side, the opposite side is the lower side, and the right side when viewed from the front of door body 3 is the right side, and the left side is the left side.

[0013] The washing tub 2 has an opening 2A at the top, and a basket 5 for storing tableware 4 is placed inside. As shown in Figure 1, the washing tub 2 has a first rail 6 in its lower area. The housing 7 of the dishwasher 1 has a second rail 8 on its inner surface. The first rail 6 is supported so as to be movable on the second rail 8. The washing tub 2 is supported so as to be freely inserted and removed in the front-to-rear direction relative to the housing 7.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1 , the upper part of the door 3 has a flat section 9 formed behind the rear surface of the door 3 and in front of the opening 2A of the washing tub 2. A display / operation unit 10 equipped with LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) and a touch panel is disposed on the flat section 9. The display / operation unit 10 receives operations such as selecting a washing operation course for the dishwasher 1 and turning the dishwasher 1 on and off. The display / operation unit 10 also displays information such as the status of the dishwasher 1 during washing operation, whether water-saving / energy-saving operation is being performed, and the time required for the dishwasher 1 to complete the washing operation. The water-saving / energy-saving operation will be described later. A handle 11 protruding forward is disposed on the upper part of the door 3. The handle 11 is used by a user to insert or remove the washing tub 2 from the housing 7.

[0015] When the door 3 is closed, the display operation unit 10 is covered by the door 3 and the housing 7 and cannot be seen from the outside. Therefore, when the door 3 is closed, the number of parts arranged on the front of the dishwasher 1 can be reduced, thereby improving the external design of the dishwasher 1.

[0016] Side walls 12 are arranged on both sides between the washing tub 2 and the door body 3. The pair of side walls 12 connect the washing tub 2 and the door body 3, allowing the washing tub 2 and the door body 3 to move together. A front space 13 is formed between the washing tub 2 and the door body 3. The front space 13 is defined by the front side of the washing tub 2, the rear side of the door body 3, the inner side of the side wall 12, and the underside of the flat portion 9. A detergent tank storage section 14 is arranged in the front space 13, and a detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14 so that it can be freely inserted and removed. The detergent tank storage section 14 is formed on one side of the side wall 12 by welding, screwing, or by being integrally molded with the side wall 12. The detergent tank storage section 14 may be provided on the front side of the washing tub 2.

[0017] A control device 16 is disposed below the front of the washing tub 2. The control device 16 controls the operation of, for example, a circulation pump 17, a drain pump 18, a water supply pump 19, and a detergent pump 20. The control device 16 controls the rotation speed and operation time of the detergent pump 20. Through this control, when washing dishes 4, etc., a required amount of liquid detergent is supplied from the detergent tank 15 to the washing tub 2 through a first pipe 21 and a second pipe 22. The first pipe 21 connects the detergent tank storage section 14 and the detergent pump 20. The second pipe 22 connects the detergent pump 20 and the washing tub detergent outlet 30.

[0018] Washing water for washing tableware 4 is supplied to washing tub 2 via the following route. Specifically, washing water such as tap water is supplied from a branch water faucet in a system kitchen (not shown) to a water supply route such as a water supply hose. The supplied washing water passes through the water supply route and is supplied to washing tub 2 at the required level and in the required amount by water supply pump 19, water supply valve, etc.

[0019] A circulation pump 17 is disposed below and outside the washing tub 2. The circulation pump 17 circulates the washing water supplied into the washing tub 2 through a circulation path and sprays the washing water from washing nozzles 23. The tableware 4 is washed with the sprayed washing water. A heater 24 for heating the washing water is disposed near the bottom of the washing tub 2.

[0020] Dishwasher 1 is equipped with a drainage path that drains wash water from washing tub 2. The drainage path is made up of drainage pump 18 and a drainage hose (not shown). When washing and rinsing of dishes 4 is completed, drainage pump 18 is driven and the wash water is drained to the outside via the drainage hose. The wash water in washing tub 2 can be drained by sending it via the drainage hose to a connected drain pipe or the like.

[0021] [1-1-2. Structure of detergent tank] Fig. 2 shows the detergent tank 15 in a stored state, and Fig. 3 shows the detergent tank 15 in a state where it is being stored or pulled out. As shown in Fig. 3, the detergent tank storage section 14 has a hollow space that is open on the right side. The detergent tank 15 is stored in the hollow space and can be freely inserted and removed. The detergent tank storage section 14 is located, for example, from the center side to the right side of the washing tub 2, and stores the detergent tank 15 substantially below (including below) the flat surface section 9.

[0022] 2 and 3 show a configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out to the right from the detergent tank housing portion 14, but this is not limiting. For example, the detergent tank housing portion 14 and the detergent tank 15 may be disposed in positions symmetrically opposite to those shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In this case, a configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out to the left from the detergent tank housing portion 14 is desirable.

[0023] As shown in Fig. 3, a tank-side check valve 151 is provided at the rear end of the bottom surface of the detergent tank 15. An outlet of the tank-side check valve 151 is connected to a detergent discharge port 152 of the detergent tank 15. A main body-side check valve 141 is provided at the rear end of the bottom surface of the detergent tank storage section 14. When the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14, the main body-side check valve 141 of the detergent tank storage section 14 and the tank-side check valve 151 engage with each other, as shown in Fig. 2. This completes the storage of the detergent tank 15, and a path is formed for transporting liquid detergent from the detergent discharge port 152 to the detergent tank storage section 14 side.

[0024] 1, when the washing tub 2 is pulled forward at least a distance A (dotted arrow in FIG. 1), the detergent tank 15 can be freely taken in and out of the detergent tank storage section 14 in the left-right direction. Distance A is the shortest distance between the mating surface between the back surface of the door body 3 and the front surface of the housing 7 and the surface of the detergent tank storage section 14 on the washing tub 2 side.

[0025] [1-1-3. Structure of the detergent tank and float] 4 and 5 are front views of the detergent tank 15 when it is housed in the detergent tank storage section 14. FIG. 4 shows a state in which no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, and FIG. 5 shows a state in which liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15. In FIG. 5, the liquid level of the liquid detergent is indicated by a dashed line. The liquid detergent is stored by opening the detergent container lid 153. The detergent tank 15 has a transparent portion on at least a portion of the side surface, allowing the user to visually check the remaining amount of liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 when it is housed in the detergent tank storage section 14. The transparent portion has a scale indicating the amount of liquid detergent, allowing the user to visually estimate how much liquid detergent is running low, when it is time to refill, and so on. The detergent tank 15 has a tank handle 154. The tank handle 154 is provided on at least a portion of the side surface.

[0026] A float 155, which is an example of a float that floats in the liquid containing the liquid detergent, is provided inside the detergent tank 15. The float 155 is pivotally supported via an arm 158 on a pivot shaft 157 provided on a cover 156 that covers the opening of the detergent tank 15. The float 155 is provided to cancel out waves generated in the liquid containing the liquid detergent and is formed of a material that floats in the liquid containing the liquid detergent. The float 155 may be formed of a thermoplastic resin, metal, or the like. If the float 155 is formed of metal, a cavity may be provided inside the float 155 to allow it to float in the liquid detergent. The float 155 and the arm 158 may be formed integrally or separately and joined together. The arm 158 rotates in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the washing tank 2 is inserted into or removed from the housing 7. The rotation of the arm 158 is stopped by a stopper rib 159. The stopper rib 159 is formed on the cover 156.

[0027] A magnetic body 160 is provided on the float 155, and a magnetic sensor unit 142 that detects the magnetism of the magnetic body 160 is provided on the side surface of the detergent tank storage section 14. The magnetic sensor unit 142 detects the magnetism of the magnetic body 160, and it is detected that the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0028] As shown in Fig. 4, when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, the float 155 and the arm 158 hang down vertically due to their own weight. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, the float 155 rises according to the liquid level of the liquid detergent, and the arm 158 rotates upward around the rotation shaft 157, as shown in Fig. 5. The liquid level in the detergent tank 15 can be detected by detecting the position of the magnetic body 160 using the magnetic sensor unit 142. The magnetic sensor unit 142 is composed of, for example, multiple Hall elements provided near positions of the magnetic body 160 that correspond to multiple liquid levels in the detergent tank 15. The magnetic sensor unit 142 may be a sensor capable of detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body 160 using any method, such as a magnetoresistance effect element or a magnetic impedance element.

[0029] A hook 161 is provided on the bottom of the detergent tank 15 at the rear. When the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, the hook 161 fits into a hook receiver provided on the side of the detergent tank storage section 14, and the detergent tank 15 is stably supported within the detergent tank storage section 14. The detergent tank 15 has an open top, and the opening is covered by a cover 156. The cover 156 is provided with a detergent inlet 162, which is covered by the detergent container lid section 153. The cover 156 is provided with an inlet assist slope 163. The liquid detergent flows along the inlet assist slope 163 and is stably dispensed.

[0030] [1-1-4. Detailed configuration of the magnetic sensor unit] FIG. 6 is a front view showing a state in which the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank housing portion 14. As shown in FIG.

[0031] In this embodiment, the magnetic sensor unit 142 is disposed in the detergent tank storage section 14 so as to overlap, in a front view, with the approximate center of the locus T of the magnetic body 160 caused by the rotation of the float 155. Note that the magnetic body 160 in this embodiment is tilted so that the north pole 160N is disposed downward and the south pole 160S is disposed upward.

[0032] The magnetic sensor unit 142 includes a first magnetic sensor 142A and a second magnetic sensor 142B. The first magnetic sensor 142A and the second magnetic sensor 142B are arranged so as to overlap the locus T in a front view. The first magnetic sensor 142A is arranged above the second magnetic sensor 142B. The first magnetic sensor 142A and the second magnetic sensor 142B can independently detect magnetic flux in two directions perpendicular to the plane of the paper in FIG. 6 using Hall elements. When the magnetic flux density in the corresponding direction in each magnetic sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold, the magnetic sensor unit 142 outputs a detection signal to the control device 16. The detection signal is a digital signal.

[0033] 6 is due to the north pole 160N, and the magnetic flux received by the magnetic sensor unit 142 in the direction from the front to the back of the page in Fig. 6 is due to the south pole 160S. Therefore, the magnetic sensor unit 142 outputs four types of detection signals: a first north pole detection signal N1 from the first magnetic sensor 142A, a first south pole detection signal S1 from the first magnetic sensor 142A, a second north pole detection signal N2 from the second magnetic sensor 142B, and a second south pole detection signal S2 from the second magnetic sensor 142B.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the range in which the magnetic force of the magnetic body 160 can be detected. In FIG. 7, when the first magnetic sensor 142A is included in the N-pole detection range BN in a front view, the first magnetic sensor 142A outputs a first N-pole detection signal N1. In FIG. 7, when the second magnetic sensor 142B is included in the N-pole detection range BN in a front view, the second magnetic sensor 142B outputs a second N-pole detection signal N2. In FIG. 7, when the first magnetic sensor 142A is included in the S pole detection range BS in a front view, the first magnetic sensor 142A outputs a first S pole detection signal S1. In FIG. 7, when the second magnetic sensor 142B is included in the south pole detection range BS in a front view, the second magnetic sensor 142B outputs a second south pole detection signal S2.

[0035] Here, the N-pole detection range BN and the S-pole detection range BS are ranges that indicate the regions where the magnetic flux density from the N-pole 35N and the S-pole 35S exceeds a predetermined threshold at the same position as each magnetic sensor in the front-to-back direction of the paper in Fig. 7. The N-pole detection range BN and the S-pole detection range BS are set based on the strength of the magnetic force of the magnetic body 160, the distance between the magnetic body 160 and each magnetic sensor in the front-to-back direction of the paper in Fig. 7, the magnetic force detection threshold of each magnetic sensor, etc.

[0036] 7, the float 155 is at the bottom of its movable range because the detergent tank 15 does not contain any liquid detergent. The position of the magnetic body 160 at this time is designated as position PH. When the magnetic body 160 is located at position PH, the first magnetic sensor 142A is located outside the north pole detection range BN and the south pole detection range BS. Therefore, the first magnetic sensor 142A in this case does not detect the magnetic flux of the north pole 160N and the south pole 160S, and therefore does not output a detection signal. On the other hand, when the magnetic body 160 is located at position PH, the second magnetic sensor 142B is outside the north pole detection range BN but within the south pole detection range BS, and therefore the output of the magnetic sensor unit 142 is only the second south pole detection signal S2.

[0037] 7, the position of the magnetic body 160 when the liquid detergent is stored to the maximum is shown by a virtual line. At this time, the magnetic body 160 is located at the top of the locus T of the magnetic body 160 shown in FIG. 6. The position of the magnetic body 160 at this time is referred to as position PB. When the magnetic body 160 is located at position PB, the first magnetic sensor 142A is within the north pole detection range BN. The second magnetic sensor 142B is located outside the north pole detection range BN and the south pole detection range BS. Therefore, the output of the magnetic sensor unit 142 is only the first north pole detection signal N1.

[0038] In this way, the float 155 rotates depending on the amount of liquid in the detergent tank 15, the position of the magnetic body 160 changes, and the pattern of the detection signal output from the magnetic sensor unit 142 changes. Therefore, by storing in advance detection signal patterns corresponding to the liquid level stages in the detergent tank 15, the control device 16 can detect the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 at multiple stages from the detection signal patterns output from the magnetic sensor unit 142.

[0039] 8 is a diagram showing the correspondence between the position of the magnetic body 160, the pattern of the detection signal of the magnetic sensor unit 142, and the remaining amount of liquid detergent detected by the control device 16. In FIG. 8, "1" indicates the output of a detection signal, and "0" indicates the non-output of a detection signal. The diagram in FIG. 8 is stored as data in the memory 180.

[0040] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8, within the range of the locus T shown in Fig. 6, seven patterns of detection signals are output to the control device 16 in the range from position PB where the magnetic body 160 is at its highest position to position PH where it is at its lowest position. Note that, among positions PB, PC, PD, PE, PF, PG, and PH, the position of the magnetic body 160 becomes lower as the alphabet following "P" moves toward Z.

[0041] In this embodiment, the strength of the magnetic force of the magnetic body 160, the distance between the north pole 160N and the south pole 160S of the magnetic body 160, the distance between the first magnetic sensor 142A and the second magnetic sensor 142B, the distance between each magnetic sensor and the magnetic body 160 in the front-to-back direction of the paper in Figures 6 and 7, the threshold value of magnetic force detection in each magnetic sensor, etc. are adjusted so that the pattern of the detection signal takes the pattern shown in Figure 8.

[0042] In Figure 8, patterns other than the pattern corresponding to position PA are classified into one of the remaining amounts of liquid detergent: "high detergent," "medium detergent," and "low detergent." The detection signal pattern at positions PB and PC is classified as "high detergent" as the remaining amount of liquid detergent. "High detergent" indicates the highest remaining amount of liquid detergent among the three levels. In Figure 8, the detection signal pattern at positions PD and PE is classified as "medium detergent" as the remaining amount of liquid detergent. "Medium detergent" indicates the second highest remaining amount of liquid detergent among the three levels. In Figure 8, the detection signal pattern at positions PF, PG, and PH is classified as "low detergent" as the remaining amount of liquid detergent. "Low detergent" indicates the lowest remaining amount of liquid detergent among the three levels. The control device 16 can detect the remaining amount of liquid detergent corresponding to the detection signal pattern by referring to the diagram in Figure 8.

[0043] In this embodiment, when the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank housing portion 14, at least one detection signal is output to the control device 16. Therefore, when no detection signals are output, it can be detected that the detergent tank 15 is not housed in the detergent tank housing portion 14 in the correct position. Therefore, in this embodiment, when no detection signals are output to the control device 16, the control device 16 refers to the diagram in FIG. 8 and detects that the detergent tank 15 has been removed from the detergent tank housing portion 14, i.e., that the tank is missing.

[0044] [1-1-5. Dishwasher control system configuration] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of the control system of the dishwasher 1. As shown in FIG. The dishwasher 1 includes a control device 16 that controls each part of the dishwasher 1. The control device 16 includes a processor 170, a memory 180, and an I / F 190. The I / F stands for interface.

[0045] The processor 170 is a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPC (Micro Processing Unit). The processor 170 reads and executes a control program 181 stored in the memory 180, thereby functioning as an operation control unit 171, a display operation control unit 172, and a maintenance unit 173. The control program 181 corresponds to the "program" in this disclosure.

[0046] The memory 180 is a memory that stores programs and data. The memory 180 stores a control program 181 and data to be processed by the processor 170. The memory 180 has a non-volatile storage area. The memory 180 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area for the processor 170.

[0047] The I / F 190 includes communication hardware conforming to a predetermined communication standard, such as a connector, a communication circuit, etc. The I / F 190 is connected to the circulation pump 17, the drain pump 18, the water supply pump 19, the detergent pump 20, the heater 24, the magnetic sensor unit 142, the temperature sensor 25, the open / close sensor 26, the blower fan 27, the electrostatic atomizer 28, the display operation unit 10, and the turbidity detection sensor 29, and communicates with these devices. It should be noted that the devices connected to the control device 16 are not limited to these devices, and other devices may also be connected.

[0048] The circulation pump 17 is driven under the control of the control device 16 to circulate the cleaning water supplied into the cleaning tank 2 through the circulation path and spray the cleaning water from the cleaning nozzles 23 .

[0049] The drain pump 18 is driven under the control of the control device 16 to drain the wash water from the washing tank 2.

[0050] The water supply pump 19 is driven under the control of the control device 16 to supply the cleaning water supplied from the water supply path into the cleaning tank 2.

[0051] The detergent pump 20 is driven under the control of the control device 16 to supply liquid detergent from the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 2.

[0052] The heater 24 heats the washing water under the control of the control device 16 .

[0053] When the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank housing 14, the magnetic sensor unit 142 outputs a detection signal in one of seven patterns depending on the position of the float 155.

[0054] The temperature sensor 25 detects the temperature of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 2 and outputs a detection signal to the control device 16.

[0055] The opening / closing sensor 26 detects whether the door body 3 is open or closed. The opening / closing sensor 26 outputs a detection signal to the control device 16.

[0056] The blower fan 27 rotates under the control of the control device 16. The blower fan 27 blows outside air into the washing tub 2 to dry the tableware 4.

[0057] The electrostatic atomizer 28 includes, for example, a discharge unit that discharges electricity to supplied water to generate a mist containing charged atomized water particles, and a power supply circuit that generates a high voltage to be applied to the discharge unit. The discharge unit and power supply circuit are not shown. The electrostatic atomizer 28 generates a mist containing charged atomized water particles to deodorize the inside of the cleaning tank 2 and suppress bacteria that develop in the cleaning tank 2. The charged atomized water particles contain active ingredients such as electrostatic mist that exhibit disinfecting and deodorizing effects. The mist generated by the electrostatic atomizer 28 is sent into the cleaning tank 2 by a specified fan.

[0058] The display operation unit 10 includes an LED and a touch panel, and displays various information under the control of the control device 16. The display operation unit 10 also receives various operations from the user via the touch panel.

[0059] The turbidity detection sensor 29 is configured by, for example, an optical sensor, and detects the turbidity of the cleaning water flowing in a predetermined pipe arranged in the circulation path, and outputs a detection signal to the control device 16.

[0060] As described above, the processor 170 functions as the operation control unit 171, the display operation control unit 172, and the maintenance unit 173.

[0061] The operation control unit 171 controls various devices connected to the control device 16 to control the washing operation of the dishwasher 1. The washing operation controlled by the operation control unit 171 may be an operation in which the washing process, rinsing process, drying process, and storage process are performed consecutively in this order, an operation in which only any of the processes are performed, or an operation in which any two abnormal processes are performed in any order. Here, the storage process is a process in which the tableware 4 is stored in the washing tub 2 when the door body 3 is closed. The storage process includes at least one of a dry storage process and a sterilization storage process. The dry storage process is a process in which the tableware 4 is dried and stored using the blower fan 27. The sterilization storage process is a process in which the mist generated by the electrostatic atomization device 28 is sent into the washing tub 2 to sterilize and store the tableware 4.

[0062] The operation control unit 171 can execute water-saving and energy-saving operation during washing operation. Water-saving and energy-saving operation is an operation for saving water and energy during washing operation. Washing operation with water-saving and energy-saving operation can save more water and energy than washing operation without water-saving and energy-saving operation. The operation control unit 171 determines whether to execute water-saving and energy-saving operation during washing operation based on the temperature change per unit time detected by the temperature sensor 25 and the detection signal of the turbidity detection sensor 29. Then, when the operation control unit 171 determines to execute water-saving and energy-saving operation, it executes water-saving and energy-saving operation during washing operation.

[0063] The display operation control unit 172 causes the display operation unit 10 to display various types of information. The display operation control unit 172 also receives various operations from the user via the display operation unit 10.

[0064] The maintenance unit 173 performs a first maintenance operation or a second maintenance operation. The first maintenance operation and the second maintenance operation are operations for cleaning the detergent supply path R, which supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 into the washing tub 2, with the liquid stored in the detergent tank 15. The detergent supply path R is a supply path formed by the detergent discharge port 152, the first pipe 21, the detergent pump 20, the second pipe 22, and the washing tub detergent discharge port 30. In the first maintenance operation and the second maintenance operation, a liquid other than the liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15. The liquid stored in the detergent tank 15 in the first maintenance operation and the second maintenance operation is, for example, water at 40°C with citric acid dissolved in it. The liquid stored in the detergent tank 15 during the first and second maintenance operations is not limited to this example, and may be water below 40°C with citric acid dissolved in it, water above 40°C with citric acid dissolved in it, water without citric acid dissolved in it, or water with components other than citric acid dissolved in it. In the present embodiment, the second maintenance operation corresponds to the "maintenance operation" of the present disclosure.

[0065] The first maintenance operation or the second maintenance operation includes a first operation and a second operation, and the first operation and the second operation are performed multiple times. The first operation is an operation to drive the detergent pump 20. The first operation fills the detergent supply path R with the liquid stored in the detergent tank 15. The second operation is performed immediately after the first operation is completed. The second operation is an operation to stop the detergent pump 20. The second operation fills the detergent supply path R with the liquid during the first operation and dissolves it with the liquid. Note that the deposits are generated by chemical reactions of the liquid detergent or mixing of different types of liquid detergent. The operation time of the second operation is set longer than the operation time of the first operation.

[0066] The operating time of the first operation in the second maintenance operation is set to be equal to or longer than the operating time of the first operation in the first maintenance operation. The operating time of the second operation in the second maintenance operation is set to be longer than the operating time of the second operation in the first maintenance operation. Therefore, the execution time of the second maintenance operation is longer than the execution time of the first maintenance operation. Let the operating time of the first operation in the first maintenance operation be T1, the operating time of the second operation in the first maintenance operation be T2, the operating time of the first operation in the second maintenance operation be T3, and the operating time of the second operation in the second maintenance operation be T4. In this embodiment, the relationship T1 < T3 < T2 < T4 holds for the operating times. T1 is, for example, 60 seconds. T2 is, for example, 230 seconds. T3 is, for example, 67 seconds. T4 is, for example, 3560 seconds.

[0067] The display operation unit 10 displays a user interface that allows the user P to switch the maintenance mode of the dishwasher 1 to the first maintenance mode for performing the first maintenance operation or the second maintenance mode for performing the second maintenance operation. In the default user interface, the maintenance mode of the dishwasher 1 is set to the first maintenance mode. When the display operation control unit 172 receives an operation from the user P to switch from the first maintenance mode to the second maintenance mode via the display operation unit 10, the maintenance unit 173 performs the second maintenance operation. On the other hand, when the display operation control unit 172 receives an operation from the user P to switch from the second maintenance mode to the first maintenance mode via the display operation unit 10, and in the case of the default setting, the maintenance unit 173 performs the first maintenance operation.

[0068] The maintenance unit 173 detects the liquid level of the liquid stored in the detergent tank 15. With reference to the diagram of FIG. 8, the maintenance unit 173 detects the liquid level corresponding to each pattern of the detection signal output by the magnetic sensor unit 142. When the pattern of the detection signal output by the magnetic sensor unit 142 corresponds to position PB, the maintenance unit 173 detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at a first position. When the pattern of the detection signal output by the magnetic sensor unit 142 corresponds to position PC, the maintenance unit 173 detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at a second position lower than the first position. When the pattern of the detection signal output by the magnetic sensor unit 142 corresponds to position PD, the maintenance unit 173 detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at a third position lower than the second position. When the pattern of the detection signal output by the magnetic sensor unit 142 corresponds to position PE, the maintenance unit 173 detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at a fourth position, which is lower than the third position. When the pattern of the detection signal output by the magnetic sensor unit 142 corresponds to position PF, the maintenance unit 173 detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at a fifth position, which is lower than the fourth position. When the pattern of the detection signal output by the magnetic sensor unit 142 corresponds to position PG, the maintenance unit 173 detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at a sixth position, which is lower than the fifth position. When the pattern of the detection signal output by the magnetic sensor unit 142 corresponds to position PH, the maintenance unit 173 detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at a seventh position, which is lower than the sixth position.

[0069] The maintenance unit 173 determines whether there is no liquid remaining in the detergent tank 15. For example, after detecting the seventh position as the liquid level in the detergent tank 15, if the detergent pump 20 has been driven for a predetermined time or a predetermined number of revolutions, the maintenance unit 173 determines that there is no liquid remaining in the detergent tank 15. Furthermore, for example, after detecting "low remaining amount" as the remaining amount in the detergent tank 15 with reference to the chart in FIG. 8, if the detergent pump 20 has been driven for a predetermined time or a predetermined number of revolutions, the maintenance unit 173 determines that there is no liquid remaining in the detergent tank 15.

[0070] [1-2. Operation] Next, the operation of the dishwasher 1 will be described. [1-2-1. Operation during the first maintenance operation] FIG. 10 is a flowchart FA showing the operation of the dishwasher 1 during the first maintenance operation.

[0071] Note that the maintenance unit 173 of this embodiment can perform the first maintenance operation when it detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at a first position. In other words, the maintenance unit 173 of this embodiment can perform the first maintenance operation when the liquid is stored to the maximum in the detergent tank 15. Therefore, at the start of the operation of FIG. 10, the liquid is stored to the maximum in the detergent tank 15.

[0072] The maintenance unit 173 of the control device 16 performs a first operation (step SA1). Note that the time during which the detergent pump 20 is driven in step SA1 is T1, which corresponds to the operation time of the first operation.

[0073] Next, the maintenance unit 173 performs the second operation (step SA2). Note that the time during which the detergent pump 20 stops in step SA2 is T2, which corresponds to the operation time of the second operation.

[0074] Next, the maintenance unit 173 determines whether the first operation and the second operation have been performed N times (N is an integer equal to or greater than 2) since the start of the first maintenance operation (step SA3). N is 6, for example.

[0075] If the maintenance unit 173 determines that the first and second operations have not been performed N times (N is an integer greater than or equal to 2) since the start of the first maintenance operation (step SA3: NO), it returns the processing to step SA1 and performs the processing from step SA1 onwards again.

[0076] On the other hand, if the maintenance unit 173 determines that the first operation and the second operation have been performed N times since the start of the first maintenance operation (step SA3: YES), it determines whether there is any liquid remaining in the detergent tank 15 (step SA4).

[0077] If the maintenance unit 173 does not determine that there is no remaining amount (step SA4: NO), it drives the detergent pump 20 for a time T5 (step SA5) and ends the first maintenance operation. T5 is, for example, 120 seconds.

[0078] On the other hand, if the maintenance unit 173 determines that there is no detergent remaining (step SA4: YES), it drives the detergent pump 20 for a time T6 (step SA6) and ends the first maintenance operation. T6 is a time shorter than T5, for example, 15 seconds.

[0079] [1-2-2. Operation during second maintenance operation] FIG. 11 is a flowchart FB showing the operation of the dishwasher 1 during the second maintenance operation.

[0080] Note that the maintenance unit 173 of this embodiment can perform the second maintenance operation when it detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at the first position. Therefore, at the start of the operation of FIG. 11, the liquid is stored in the detergent tank 15 to the maximum.

[0081] The maintenance unit 173 of the control device 16 performs the first operation (step SB1). Note that the time during which the detergent pump 20 is driven in step SB1 is T3, which corresponds to the operation time of the first operation.

[0082] Next, the maintenance unit 173 performs the second operation (step SB2). Note that the time at which the detergent pump 20 stops in step SB2 is T4, which corresponds to the operation time of the second operation.

[0083] The maintenance unit 173 determines whether the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is equal to or lower than a predetermined reference value (step SB3). In this embodiment, the predetermined reference value is equal to or lower than the fifth position. Note that the predetermined reference value is not limited to equal to or lower than the fifth position. The predetermined reference value may be any value that indicates at least one stage of change in the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 in multi-stage detection. Therefore, the predetermined reference value may be the second position, the third position, the fourth position, the fifth position, or the sixth position. Note that the predetermined reference value is set to a value that can be considered to be the case where maintenance of the detergent supply path R is not required when the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is equal to or lower than the predetermined reference value. The predetermined reference value is appropriately determined by prior testing, simulation, or the like.

[0084] If the maintenance unit 173 determines that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is not equal to or lower than the predetermined reference value (step SB3: NO), it determines whether the first operation and the second operation have been performed M (M is an integer equal to or greater than 3) times since the start of the second maintenance operation (step SB4). M is, for example, 9.

[0085] If the maintenance unit 173 determines that the first operation and the second operation have not been performed M times since the start of the second maintenance operation (step SB4: NO), the maintenance unit 173 returns the process to step SB1 and performs the processes from step SB1 onwards again.

[0086] On the other hand, if the maintenance unit 173 determines that the first operation and the second operation have been performed M times since the start of the second maintenance operation (step SB4: YES), the maintenance unit 173 performs the process of step SB5.

[0087] Returning to the explanation of step SB3, if the maintenance unit 173 determines that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is equal to or lower than a predetermined reference value (step SB3: YES), it determines whether the first operation and the second operation have been performed L times (L is an integer equal to or greater than 2) since the second maintenance operation started (step SB5). Here, L is set to a value smaller than M. L is, for example, 6.

[0088] If the maintenance unit 173 determines that the first operation and the second operation have not been performed L times since the start of the second maintenance operation (step SB5: NO), the maintenance unit 173 returns the process to step SB1 and performs the processes from step SB1 onwards again.

[0089] Returning to the explanation of step SB3, if the maintenance unit 173 determines that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is not equal to or lower than the predetermined reference value (step SB3: NO), it determines whether the first operation and the second operation have been performed L times (L is an integer equal to or greater than 3) since the start of the second maintenance operation (step SB5), where L is greater than M.

[0090] If the maintenance unit 173 determines that the first and second operations have not been performed L times (L is an integer greater than or equal to 3) since the start of the second maintenance operation (step SB5: NO), it returns the processing to step SB1 and performs the processing from step SB1 onwards again.

[0091] On the other hand, if the maintenance unit 173 determines that the first and second operations have been performed L times since the start of the second maintenance operation (step SB5: YES), it drives the detergent pump 20 for a time T7 (step SB6) and ends the second maintenance operation. T7 is an operation time longer than T5 and T6, for example, 480 seconds.

[0092] As described above, in the second maintenance operation, if the liquid level in detergent tank 15 falls below a predetermined reference value, the operation ends without performing the first and second operations M times. In other words, in the second maintenance operation, if the liquid level in detergent tank 15 falls below a predetermined reference value, the execution time of the second maintenance operation is shortened.

[0093] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, dishwasher 1 includes washing tub 2, detergent tank 15 capable of storing liquid detergent to be supplied to washing tub 2, and maintenance unit 173 that performs a second maintenance operation to clean detergent supply path R, which supplies the liquid detergent stored in detergent tank 15 into washing tub 2, with the liquid stored in detergent tank 15. If, during the second maintenance operation, the liquid level in detergent tank 15 drops to or below a predetermined reference value, maintenance unit 173 shortens the execution time of the second maintenance operation.

[0094] This allows the execution time of the second maintenance operation to be shortened according to the liquid level in detergent tank 15. Therefore, the period during which dishwasher 1 cannot be used due to maintenance of detergent supply path R can be shortened.

[0095] If the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 does not drop below a predetermined reference value during the second maintenance operation, the maintenance unit 173 does not shorten the execution time of the second maintenance operation.

[0096] According to this, if the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 does not drop below a predetermined reference value, the execution time of the second maintenance operation is not shortened, which makes it possible to avoid shortening the execution time of the second maintenance operation when the detergent supply path R is not properly cleaned. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the detergent supply path R from being improperly cleaned during maintenance, while shortening the period during which the dishwasher 1 cannot be used due to maintenance of the detergent supply path R.

[0097] The detergent tank 15 includes a float 155 that floats in the liquid stored in the detergent tank 15. The maintenance unit 173 detects the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 based on the position of the float 155.

[0098] This utilizes the position of float 155 floating in the liquid, making it possible to properly detect the liquid level in detergent tank 15. Therefore, the execution time of the second maintenance operation can be properly shortened, and the period during which dishwasher 1 cannot be used due to maintenance of detergent supply path R can be properly shortened.

[0099] The maintenance unit 173 detects the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 at multiple stages. The predetermined reference value is a value that indicates at least one or more stages of change in the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 detected by the maintenance unit 173.

[0100] According to this, in a configuration in which the liquid level in detergent tank 15 is detected at multiple stages, the execution time of the second maintenance operation is shortened when a change in the liquid level in detergent tank 15 can be reliably detected. Therefore, in a configuration in which the liquid level in detergent tank 15 is detected at multiple stages, the execution time of the second maintenance operation can be appropriately shortened. Therefore, in a configuration in which the liquid level in detergent tank 15 is detected at multiple stages, the period in which dishwasher 1 cannot be used due to maintenance of detergent supply path R can be appropriately shortened.

[0101] The dishwasher 1 is equipped with a detergent pump 20 that supplies liquid detergent stored in a detergent tank 15 to the washing tub 2 via a detergent supply path R. The second maintenance operation includes a first operation for driving the detergent pump 20 and a second operation for stopping the detergent pump 20. The second operation is an operation that is performed following the first operation after the first operation has been completed. The operation time of the second operation is longer than the operation time of the first operation.

[0102] According to this, the second maintenance operation can perform effective maintenance because it includes an operation that can dissolve precipitates that have formed in the detergent supply path R. Therefore, the maintenance of the detergent supply path R can be performed effectively while shortening the period during which the dishwasher 1 cannot be used due to maintenance of the detergent supply path R.

[0103] The control method for the dishwasher 1 performs a second maintenance operation to clean the detergent supply path R, which supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 into the washing tub 2, with the liquid stored in the detergent tank 15, and if the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 drops below a predetermined reference value during the second maintenance operation, the execution time of the second maintenance operation is shortened.

[0104] This provides the same effects as those of the dishwasher 1 described above.

[0105] Control program 181 causes processor 170 of dishwasher 1 to function as maintenance unit 173 that executes a second maintenance operation to clean detergent supply path R, which supplies the liquid detergent stored in detergent tank 15 into washing tub 2, with the liquid stored in detergent tank 15. If, during the second maintenance operation, the liquid level in detergent tank 15 drops to a predetermined reference value or below, maintenance unit 173 shortens the execution time of the second maintenance operation.

[0106] This provides the same effects as those of the dishwasher 1 described above.

[0107] (Embodiment 2) Next, a description will be given of embodiment 2. In the description of embodiment 2, the same components as those of dishwasher 1 of embodiment 1 will be given the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0108] [2-1.Configuration] The maintenance unit 173 of the dishwasher 1 in the second embodiment executes a third maintenance operation instead of the first and second maintenance operations.

[0109] The third maintenance operation is an operation in which the detergent supply path R, which supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 into the washing tub 2, is cleaned with the liquid stored in the detergent tank 15. In the third maintenance operation, similar to the first and second maintenance operations, a liquid other than the liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15. The third maintenance operation includes a first operation and a second operation, and the first operation and the second operation are performed multiple times. In the present embodiment, the third maintenance operation corresponds to the "maintenance operation" of the present disclosure.

[0110] [2-2. Operation] Next, the operation of the dishwasher 1 during the third maintenance operation will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart FC showing the operation of the dishwasher 1 during the third maintenance operation.

[0111] Note that the maintenance unit 173 of this embodiment can perform the third maintenance operation when it detects that the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 is at the first position. Therefore, at the start of the operation of FIG. 12, the liquid is stored in the detergent tank 15 to the maximum.

[0112] The maintenance unit 173 performs a first operation (step SC1). The time for driving the detergent pump 20 in step SC1 is T8. T8 may be any time as long as it is shorter than T9, which will be described later.

[0113] Next, the maintenance unit 173 performs the second operation (step SC2). The time at which the detergent pump 20 is stopped in step SC2 is T9.

[0114] Next, the maintenance unit 173 determines whether the liquid level in the detergent pump 20 is equal to or lower than a predetermined reference value (step SC3). The predetermined reference value in step SC3 may be the same as or different from the predetermined reference value in the first embodiment.

[0115] If the maintenance unit 173 determines that the liquid level in the detergent pump 20 is not equal to or lower than the predetermined reference value (step SC3: NO), it performs the processes from step SC1 onwards again.

[0116] On the other hand, if the maintenance unit 173 determines that the liquid level in the detergent pump 20 is equal to or lower than the predetermined reference value (step SC3: YES), it drives the detergent pump 20 for a time period T10 (step SB6) and ends the second maintenance operation. T10 is, for example, the same time as T7.

[0117] [2-3. Effects, etc.] According to the second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be achieved.

[0118] (Other embodiments) As described above, the above-mentioned first and second embodiments have been described as examples disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to these, 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 above-mentioned first and second embodiments to create new embodiments. Therefore, other embodiments will be exemplified below.

[0119] In each of the above-described embodiments, the float 155 and the magnetic sensor unit 142 are exemplified as means for detecting the liquid level in the detergent tank 15. However, the detection means is not limited to the float 155 and the magnetic sensor unit 142, and other sensors such as an optical sensor or an electrode sensor may also be used. Furthermore, the first magnetic sensor 142A and the second magnetic sensor 142B have been described as an example of the magnetic sensor, but the magnetic sensor is not limited to the first magnetic sensor 142A and the second magnetic sensor 142B. For example, three or more magnetic sensors may be provided to detect the liquid level at multiple stages, or only one magnetic sensor may be provided to reduce costs. By changing the arrangement, number, and configuration of the sensors in this way, the number and content of the liquid level patterns obtained may be changed depending on the detection content required.

[0120] In each of the above-described embodiments, the maintenance unit 173 is configured to perform the first maintenance operation, the second maintenance operation, and the third maintenance operation when the liquid is stored to the maximum in the detergent tank 15. However, the liquid level in the detergent tank 15 that enables the first maintenance operation, the second maintenance operation, and the third maintenance operation to be performed is not limited to the liquid level corresponding to the maximum, and may be any liquid level that is above a predetermined reference value.

[0121] For example, processor 170 may be configured with a single processor or multiple processors. Processor 170 may be hardware programmed to implement corresponding functional units. That is, processor 170 may be configured with, for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0122] The configuration of the dishwasher 1 shown in FIG. 9 is 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 functions of each unit by having a single processor execute a program. Furthermore, some of the functions implemented by software in the above-described embodiment may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions implemented by hardware may be implemented by software. In addition, the specific detailed configuration of each unit of the dishwasher 1 may also be changed as desired without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0123] The step units of the operations shown in FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 are divided according to the main processing contents for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of the operations, and the operations are not limited by the way of dividing the processing units or the names. Depending on the processing contents, they may be further divided into more step units. Also, one step unit may be divided to include more processes. Also, the order of the steps may be appropriately changed within the scope not hindering the spirit of the present disclosure. The operation times of the first operation and the second operation in the first maintenance operation and the second maintenance operation are not limited to the above-described implementation details. For example, the operation time of the first operation in the second maintenance operation may be set to be equal to or longer than the operation time of the first operation in the first maintenance operation, and the operation time of the second operation in the second maintenance operation may be set to be equal to or longer than the operation time of the second operation in the first maintenance operation. That is, a form in which the relationship of T1≦T3<T2≦T4 holds for the operation times may be adopted. Even in such a configuration, since the forms of the first maintenance operation and the second maintenance operation are different in the step (step SB4) of determining whether the first operation and the second operation have been performed M (M is an integer of 3 or more) times after starting the second maintenance operation, they can be used properly according to the application.

[0124] The control program 181 executed by the processor 170 can also be realized in a state where the control program 181 is recorded on a portable information recording medium. Examples of the information recording medium include magnetic recording media such as hard disks, optical recording media such as CDs, and semiconductor memory devices such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) memories and SSDs (Solid State Drives), but other recording media can also be used.

[0125] Note that the above-described embodiments are for exemplifying the technology in the present disclosure, and various changes, replacements, additions, omissions, etc. can be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

Industrial Applicability

[0126] The present disclosure is applicable to dishwashers that use a detergent supply passage that supplies liquid detergent stored in a detergent tank into a washing tub with the liquid stored in the detergent tank. Specifically, the present disclosure is applicable to built-in dishwashers as well as countertop dishwashers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 1 dishwasher 2 Cleaning tank 15 Detergent tank 16 Control device 20 Detergent Pump 155 Float 170 processors 171 Operation control unit 172 Display operation section 173 Maintenance Department 180 memory 181 Control Program (Program) R Detergent supply channel

Claims

1. A cleaning tank; a detergent tank capable of storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tank; a maintenance unit that performs a maintenance operation to clean a detergent supply passage, which supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank into the washing tub, with the liquid stored in the detergent tank; The maintenance unit If the liquid level in the detergent tank falls below a predetermined reference value during the maintenance operation, the execution time of the maintenance operation is shortened. dishwasher.

2. The maintenance unit If the liquid level in the detergent tank does not drop to or below the predetermined reference value during the maintenance operation, the execution time of the maintenance operation is not shortened.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1.

3. The detergent tank includes a float that floats in the liquid stored in the detergent tank, The maintenance unit detects the liquid level in the detergent tank based on the position of the float.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The maintenance unit detects the liquid level in the detergent tank at multiple stages, The predetermined reference value is at least a value indicating one or more stages of change in the liquid level in the detergent tank detected by the maintenance unit.

4. The dishwasher of claim 3.

5. a detergent pump that supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank to the washing tub through the detergent supply path; the maintenance operation includes a first operation of driving the detergent pump and a second operation of stopping the detergent pump, the second action is an action that is performed subsequent to the first action after the first action has been completed, The operation time of the second operation is longer than the operation time of the first operation. A dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A method for controlling a dishwasher including a washing tub and a detergent tank capable of storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tub, comprising: performing a maintenance operation to clean a detergent supply passage, which supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank into the cleaning tub, with the liquid stored in the detergent tank; If the liquid level in the detergent tank falls below a predetermined reference value during the maintenance operation, the execution time of the maintenance operation is shortened. How to control a dishwasher.

7. A dishwasher processor including a washing tub and a detergent tank capable of storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tub, a detergent supply passage that supplies the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank into the washing tub functions as a maintenance unit that performs a maintenance operation to clean the washing tub with the liquid stored in the detergent tank; The maintenance unit If the liquid level in the detergent tank falls below a predetermined reference value during the maintenance operation, the execution time of the maintenance operation is shortened. program.

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