Washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine enabling adjustment of more desirable operation condition depending on addition or removal of laundry.SOLUTION: An automatic washing machine 1 comprises: an outer tank 20 that is disposed in an enclosure 10 and stores water; a washing and dewatering tank 22 that is rotatably disposed in the outer tank 20 and stores laundry; an input port 14 that is provided on the enclosure 10 and communicates with the inside of the washing and dewatering tank 22; a top cover 15 covering the input port 14; a cover opening and closing detection part to detect opening and closing of the top cover 15; a control part to execute a washing operation including a washing step, a rinsing step, and dewatering step; and an operation display part to receive a temporary stopping operation for temporarily stopping the washing operation and a restarting operation to restart the washing operation. When the top cover 15 is opened or closed during the temporary stop of the washing operation, the control part determines whether the laundry is added in or removed from the washing and dewatering tank 22, and adjusts the operation condition after restarting the washing operation based on the determination result and history of the washing operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a washing machine. [Background technology]

[0002] After the washing operation has started, the user may add laundry to the washing machine or remove some of the laundry from the washing machine. When adding or removing laundry, the washing operation is temporarily stopped (interrupted) and the door (lid) covering the laundry inlet is opened and closed. When adding or removing laundry, it is desirable that the operating conditions such as time and amount of water be adjusted accordingly.

[0003] The following Patent Document 1 describes a washing machine that, when the lid is opened or closed while the washing operation is interrupted, determines whether laundry has been added or removed, and adjusts the amount of water as an operating condition. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-97846 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When laundry is added, the amount of water is usually increased and the time for each process is extended in order to maintain performance. However, in this case, the operation time is extended, which may not be desirable for users who prioritize time.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a washing machine that can adjust more desirable operating conditions in response to the addition or removal of laundry. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A washing machine according to a main aspect of the present invention includes an outer tub arranged in a housing and configured to store water, an inner tub rotatably arranged in the outer tub and configured to accommodate laundry, an inlet provided in the housing and connected to the inner tub, a door covering the inlet, an opening / closing detection unit that detects whether the door is opened or closed, a control unit that executes a washing operation including a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and a spin-drying cycle, and an operation unit that accepts a pause operation to pause the washing operation and a resume operation to resume the washing operation. Here, when the door is opened or closed while the washing operation is paused, the control unit determines whether laundry has been added to or removed from the inner tub, and adjusts the operating conditions after the washing operation is resumed based on the determination result and the history of the washing operation.

[0008] According to the washing machine of this embodiment, when laundry is added or removed while the wash cycle is paused, it is possible to adjust the operating conditions to be more desirable, taking into account not only the change in the amount of laundry but also the wash cycle history.

[0009] In the washing machine according to this embodiment, when the control unit determines that laundry has been added, it decides whether to prioritize performance or time based on the history of the washing operation, and when it decides to prioritize time, it can be configured to adjust the operating conditions so that the operating time of the washing operation is not longer than when it decides to prioritize performance.

[0010] According to the above configuration, when laundry is added, it is possible to adjust the operating conditions appropriately depending on whether the user tends to prioritize performance or time.

[0011] The above configuration may further include a display unit for displaying a screen. In this case, when the control unit determines that laundry has been added and decides to prioritize time, it may cause the display unit to display a first information screen including information indicating that laundry has been added and information indicating that time is prioritized, and when the control unit determines that performance is prioritized, it may cause the display unit to display a second information screen including information indicating that laundry has been added and information indicating that performance is prioritized. Furthermore, when the control unit determines that laundry has been removed, it may cause the display unit to display a third information screen including information indicating that laundry has been removed.

[0012] With this configuration, the user can easily check whether it has been determined that laundry has been added or removed from the first information screen, second information screen, and third information screen displayed on the display unit, and can also easily check which of time and performance is given priority.

[0013] In the above configuration, the operation unit may be further configured to accept a first operation to change from time priority to performance priority when the first information screen is displayed on the display unit, and to accept a second operation to change from performance priority to time priority when the second information screen is displayed on the display unit. In this case, the control unit may be configured to change from time priority to performance priority based on the operation unit's acceptance of the first operation, and to change from performance priority to time priority based on the operation unit's acceptance of the second operation.

[0014] With this configuration, the user can change the priority result determined based on the laundry operation history as needed.

[0015] The washing machine according to this aspect may further include a water level sensor for detecting a water level in the outer tub. In this case, the control unit may be configured to determine whether laundry has been added or removed during the washing process and the rinsing process based on a first water level detected by the water level sensor when the door is opened and a second water level detected by the water level sensor when the door is closed.

[0016] According to the above configuration, the user does not need to perform any operation to inform the washing machine whether laundry has been added or removed, which can save the user time and effort.

[0017] In the washing machine according to this aspect, the control unit may be configured to accept an operation performed by the operating unit depending on whether laundry has been added or removed when the door is opened and then closed during the spin-drying process, and to determine whether laundry has been added or removed based on the operation.

[0018] According to the above configuration, even during the spin cycle when water level changes cannot be utilized, it is possible to determine whether laundry has been added or removed, and it is possible to adjust the operating conditions based on the addition or removal of laundry. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a washing machine that can adjust more desirable operating conditions in response to the addition or removal of laundry.

[0020] The effects and significance of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of the embodiments, however, the following embodiment is merely an example of how the present invention can be implemented, and the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of a fully automatic washing machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the water supply device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a fully automatic washing machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing pause processing for the washing step and the rinsing step according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing priority determination processing executed during processing during a temporary stop according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 6(a) to 6(c) are diagrams showing an example of a pause initial screen, a first information screen, and a second information screen, respectively, according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] 7(a) and (b) are diagrams showing an example of a third information screen and a fourth information screen, respectively, according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a process during a temporary stop for an intermediate spin-drying step according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a process during a temporary stop for a final spin-drying step according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] 10(a) and 10(b) are diagrams showing an example of a fifth information screen and a sixth information screen, respectively, according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of an operating condition adjustment file according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation condition adjustment process when laundry is added according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the operation condition adjustment process when laundry is removed according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a configuration according to the first modification example, which allows switching between time priority and performance priority. [Figure 15]FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a configuration according to the second modification example, in which the adjustment level when laundry is added can be manually set. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a configuration according to the second modification example, in which the adjustment level when laundry is removed can be manually set. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a washing machine of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of a fully automatic washing machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0024] The fully automatic washing machine 1 has a housing 10 that forms an outer shell. The housing 10 includes a rectangular cylindrical body 11 with open top and bottom faces, a top panel 12 that covers the top face of the body 11, and a base 13 that supports the body 11. A laundry inlet 14 is formed in the top panel 12. The laundry inlet 14 is covered by a top lid 15 that can be opened and closed. The top lid 15 corresponds to the door of the present invention.

[0025] A control unit 16 is disposed inside the front portion of the top panel 12. The control unit 16 controls the washing operation of the fully automatic washing machine 1.

[0026] An outer tub 20 with an open top is disposed within the housing 10. The outer tub 20 is elastically suspended and supported by four suspension rods 21 equipped with vibration isolation devices. A washing and spin-drying tub 22 is disposed within the outer tub 20. The washing and spin-drying tub 22 has an open top and rotates around a rotation axis extending vertically. A large number of spin-drying holes 22a are formed around the entire inner circumferential surface of the washing and spin-drying tub 22. In addition, a large number of discharge holes 22b are formed on the inner bottom surface of the washing and spin-drying tub 22. The inlet 14 leads into the washing and spin-drying tub 22.

[0027] A balance ring 23 is provided on the top of washing / spinning tub 22. A pulsator 24 is disposed on the bottom of washing / spinning tub 22. A plurality of blades 24a are provided radially on the surface of pulsator 24. Washing / spinning tub 22 corresponds to the inner tub of the present invention.

[0028] A drive unit 30 that generates torque to drive the washing / spinning tub 22 and the pulsator 24 is disposed on the outer bottom of the outer tub 20. The drive unit 30 includes a drive motor 31 and a transmission mechanism 32. The transmission mechanism 32 has a clutch mechanism 32a, and by switching operation of the clutch mechanism 32a, the torque of the drive motor 31 is transmitted only to the pulsator 24 to rotate only the pulsator 24 during the washing and rinsing processes, and the torque of the drive motor 31 is transmitted to the pulsator 24 and the washing / spinning tub 22 to rotate the pulsator 24 and the washing / spinning tub 22 integrally during the spinning process.

[0029] A drain outlet 20a is formed at the outer bottom of outer tub 20. A drain valve 40 is provided at drain outlet 20a. Drain valve 40 includes, for example, a valve and a torque motor that opens and closes the valve. A drain hose 41 is connected to drain valve 40. When drain valve 40 is opened, water stored in washing / spinning tub 22 and outer tub 20 is drained outside the machine through drain hose 41.

[0030] The outer tub 20 is provided with a water level detection unit 50 for detecting the water level in the outer tub 20. The water level detection unit 50 includes an air trap 51 formed at the bottom of the outer tub 20 and a water level sensor 53 connected to the air trap 51 via a hose 52. The water level sensor 53 is a diaphragm-type water level sensor, and detects the water level in the outer tub 20 by detecting the air pressure in the air trap 51, which changes depending on the water level in the outer tub 20.

[0031] A water supply device 100 is disposed behind the top panel 12. The water supply device 100 is connected to a water faucet and has the function of supplying water to the washing and spin-drying tub 22, i.e., the outer tub 20. The water supply device 100 also functions as a liquid agent dispenser that automatically dispenses liquid detergent and fabric softener into the washing and spin-drying tub 22, i.e., the outer tub 20.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the water supply device 100. As shown in FIG.

[0033] The water supply device 100 includes a water supply valve unit 110 , a water inlet 120 , a water supply passage 130 , a detergent tank 140 , a fabric softener tank 150 , and a pump 160 .

[0034] Water supply valve unit 110 is a so-called dual valve and includes first water supply valve 111 and second water supply valve 112. Water inlet 113 of water supply valve unit 110 is connected to a water faucet via a water supply hose (not shown). Second water supply valve 112 has a larger rated flow rate than first water supply valve 111.

[0035] Water inlet section 120 is formed in a box shape and is located above the rear of washing and spin-drying tub 22. Water inlet 121 is formed in the bottom surface of water inlet section 120. Water inlet 121 opens downward and faces the inside of washing and spin-drying tub 22.

[0036] Water supply passage 130 is disposed between water supply valve unit 110 and water inlet portion 120. Water supply passage 130 includes a first water passage 131 through which water flows from first water supply valve 111, and a second water passage 132 through which water flows from second water supply valve 112. First water passage 131 and second water passage 132 are connected to water inlet portion 120.

[0037] Liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 140. An outlet provided on the bottom surface of the detergent tank 140 is connected to the first water passage 131 via a first pipe 142 having a first valve 141.

[0038] Liquid fabric softener is stored in fabric softener tank 150. An outlet provided on the bottom surface of fabric softener tank 150 is connected to first water passage 131 via second pipe 152 having second valve 151.

[0039] Pump 160 is, for example, a piston pump, and is arranged in first water passage 131 downstream of the position where detergent tank 140 and fabric softener tank 150 are connected.

[0040] When supplying water for the washing cycle, pump 160 operates with first valve 141 open. The suction force generated by the operation of pump 160 causes detergent to flow from detergent tank 140 into first water passage 131, where it accumulates. At this time, pump 160 operates for a period of time corresponding to the amount of detergent added. The amount of detergent added is determined according to the load of laundry in washing and spin tub 22. Next, first water supply valve 111 and second water supply valve 112 are opened. Water flows through first water passage 131 and second water passage 132, and is supplied into outer tub 20 via water inlet 120. At this time, the detergent accumulated in first water passage 131 is washed away by the water flowing through first water passage 131 and is introduced into outer tub 20. When the water level in outer tub 20 reaches the washing water level, first water supply valve 111 and second water supply valve 112 are closed.

[0041] When supplying water in the rinsing cycle, pump 160 operates with second valve 151 open. The suction force generated by the operation of pump 160 causes fabric softener to flow out of fabric softener tank 150 into first water passage 131, where it accumulates. At this time, pump 160 operates for a period of time corresponding to the amount of fabric softener to be dispensed. The amount of fabric softener to be dispensed is determined according to the load of laundry in washing and spin tub 22. Next, first water supply valve 111 and second water supply valve 112 are opened. Water is supplied into outer tub 20, and at this time, the detergent accumulated in first water passage 131 is swept away by the water flowing through first water passage 131 and dispensed into outer tub 20. When the water level in outer tub 20 reaches the rinsing water level, first water supply valve 111 and second water supply valve 112 are closed.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the fully automatic washing machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0043] In addition to the above-described configuration, the fully automatic washing machine 1 includes an operation display unit 60 and a lid open / close detection unit 70. The control unit 16 also includes a control unit 201, a memory unit 202, a motor drive unit 203, a clutch drive unit 204, a water supply drive unit 205, and a drain drive unit 206.

[0044] The operation display unit 60 is configured, for example, with a touch panel, and displays a screen and accepts operations on the screen. The operation display unit 60 displays an operation screen including various operation buttons such as a start button for starting and pausing (interrupting) the washing operation, and a course selection button for selecting an operation course. The operation display unit 60 also displays various screens that display the progress and remaining time of the washing operation, various error indications, etc. The operation display unit 60 corresponds to the operation unit and display unit of the present invention.

[0045] The lid opening / closing detection unit 70 includes a detector such as a microswitch, and detects the opening / closing of the top lid 15. When the top lid 15 is opened, an open signal is output from the lid opening / closing detection unit 70 to the control unit 201, and when the top lid 15 is closed, a close signal is output from the lid opening / closing detection unit 70 to the control unit 201. The lid opening / closing detection unit 70 corresponds to the opening / closing detection unit of the present invention.

[0046] The water level sensor 53 outputs a water level signal corresponding to the water level in the outer tub 20 to the control unit 201. The control unit 201 can detect the water level in the outer tub 20 using the water level sensor 53, i.e., the water level detection unit 50.

[0047] The motor drive unit 203, clutch drive unit 204, water supply drive unit 205 and drain drive unit 206 drive the drive motor 31, clutch mechanism 32a, water supply valve unit 110 and drain valve 40, respectively, in accordance with control signals from the control unit 201.

[0048] The storage unit 202 includes an EEPROM, a RAM, etc. Programs for executing various operation courses of the washing operation are stored in the storage unit 202. The storage unit 202 also stores various parameters and various control flags used in executing these programs.

[0049] The control unit 201 includes a CPU, etc., and controls the motor drive unit 203, clutch drive unit 204, water supply drive unit 205, drain drive unit 206, etc. in accordance with a program stored in the memory unit 202 based on signals from the operation display unit 60, lid opening / closing detection unit 70, water level sensor 53, etc.

[0050] The fully automatic washing machine 1 performs a washing operation according to one of various operation courses. When the washing operation is performed, laundry is placed in the washing and spin-drying tub 22 through the loading port 14 by the user.

[0051] In the washing operation, the load detection step, washing step, intermediate spin-dry step, rinsing step, and final spin-dry step are executed in this order. In many operation programs, the intermediate spin-dry step and the rinsing step are executed multiple times, i.e., twice. The washing operation is executed by the control unit 201.

[0052] In the load amount detection process, the control unit 201 operates the drive motor 31 to rotate the pulsator 24 alternately clockwise and counterclockwise for a predetermined number of on-off cycles at a predetermined rotation speed and a predetermined on-off time. While the pulsator 24 is rotating, the control unit 201 detects the laundry load based on the load applied to the drive unit 30, i.e., the drive motor 31, via the pulsator 24. Specifically, the control unit 201 detects the value of the current flowing through the drive motor 31 using a current detection unit (not shown) provided in the motor drive unit 203, and determines the load amount based on the current value. Laundry is placed on the pulsator 24 in the washing and spin-drying tub 22. Therefore, the greater the laundry load, the greater the load applied to the drive motor 31 via the pulsator 24, and the greater the value of the current flowing through the drive motor 31. The pulsator 24, the drive motor 31, the current detection unit, and the control unit 201 constitute a load amount detection unit.

[0053] The control unit 201 sets the wash water level for the wash process and the rinse water level for the rinse process based on the detected load amount. The wash water level is the set water level for the wash process, and the rinse water level is the set water level for the rinse process. Furthermore, the control unit 201 sets the detergent dosage and fabric softener dosage based on the detected load amount. In this way, the load amount detection process is completed.

[0054] During the washing cycle, the control unit 201 controls the water supply device 100 to dispense a set amount of detergent into the outer tub 20 based on the load amount, and to supply water into the outer tub 20 up to the wash water level set based on the load amount. This causes water containing detergent to accumulate in the outer tub 20. Next, the control unit 201 controls the drive motor 31 to rotate the pulsator 24 alternately clockwise and counterclockwise. A water flow is generated in the washing and spin-drying tub 22, and the laundry is washed by the water flow and detergent. After a predetermined washing time has elapsed, the control unit 201 opens the drain valve 40, and water is drained from the outer tub 20. This completes the washing cycle. The drain valve 40 remains open.

[0055] In the intermediate spin-drying step, when there is no water stored in outer tub 20, control unit 201 operates drive motor 31 to rotate washing / spin-drying tub 22 integrally with pulsator 24 at high speed. The laundry is spin-dried by the action of centrifugal force generated in washing / spin-drying tub 22. After a predetermined spin-drying time has elapsed, control unit 201 stops drive motor 31 to stop washing / spin-drying tub 22. Furthermore, control unit 201 closes drain valve 40. This completes the intermediate spin-drying step.

[0056] During the rinsing process, the control unit 201 controls the water supply device 100 to dispense a set amount of fabric softener into the outer tub 20 based on the load amount, and to supply water into the outer tub 20 up to the rinse water level set based on the load amount. This causes water containing fabric softener to accumulate in the outer tub 20. Next, the control unit 201 controls the drive motor 31 to rotate the pulsator 24 alternately clockwise and counterclockwise. A water flow is generated in the washing and spin-drying tub 22, and the laundry is rinsed by the generated water flow. Furthermore, the action of the fabric softener softens the laundry. After the predetermined rinsing time has elapsed, the control unit 201 opens the drain valve 40, and water is drained from the outer tub 20. This completes the rinsing process. The drain valve 40 remains open.

[0057] When the rinsing cycle is performed multiple times, fabric softener is added to the outer tub 20 in the final rinsing cycle.

[0058] In addition to the above-described pool rinse, the rinse process can also perform shower rinse, in which water is supplied from the water supply device 100 while the washing and spin tub 22 is rotated at a low speed, or water injection rinse, in which water is stored in the outer tub 20 and then continuously supplied from the water supply device 100 so that water overflows from the outer tub 20. These rinse methods are determined by the operating program, but can be changed by operation.

[0059] In the final spin-drying step, as in the intermediate spin-drying step, control unit 201 operates drive motor 31 to rotate washing / spin-drying tub 22 at high speed together with pulsator 24. The laundry is dehydrated by the action of centrifugal force generated in washing / spin-drying tub 22. In the final spin-drying step, washing / spin-drying tub 22 rotates at a higher speed than in the intermediate spin-drying step, resulting in a longer spin-drying time. After the spin-drying time has elapsed, washing / spin-drying tub 22 stops. Furthermore, drain valve 40 is closed. In this way, the final spin-drying step ends, and the washing operation is completed.

[0060] When operation display unit 60 accepts a pause operation while the washing operation is in progress, control unit 201 pauses (interrupts) the washing operation, and then resumes the washing operation when operation display unit 60 accepts a resume operation. At this time, if top lid 15 is opened or closed while the washing operation is paused, control unit 201 determines whether laundry has been added to or removed from washing / spinning tub 22, and adjusts the operating conditions after the washing operation is resumed based on the determination result and the washing operation history. Control unit 201 executes pause processing during the pause, and executes operating condition adjustment processing when the washing operation is resumed.

[0061] When the washing operation is temporarily stopped during the washing step or the rinsing step, the control unit 201 performs a pause process for the washing step or the rinsing step.

[0062] Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the pause process for the washing step and the rinsing step. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the priority determination process executed during the pause process. Figs. 6(a) to 6(c) are diagrams showing examples of a pause initial screen 310, a first information screen 320, and a second information screen 330, respectively. Figs. 7(a) and 7(b) are diagrams showing examples of a third information screen 340 and a fourth information screen 350, respectively.

[0063] 4, when the control unit 201 pauses the washing operation during the washing step and the rinsing step, it causes the operation display unit 60 to display a pause initial screen 310 (S101). As shown in FIG. 6(a), the pause initial screen 310 includes information 301 indicating that the washing operation is paused, a remaining time 302 for the washing operation, and a resume button 303 for resuming the washing operation.

[0064] Next, the control unit 201 monitors whether the top cover 15 has been opened and whether a restart operation has been performed (S102, S103). If a restart operation is performed without the top cover 15 being opened (S102: NO → S103: YES), the control unit 201 ends the paused processing.

[0065] The user opens the top lid 15 when adding laundry or removing some of the laundry, or when the user wants to check the inside of the washing and spin-drying tub 22 without adding or removing laundry.

[0066] When the top cover 15 is opened (S102: YES), the control unit 201 detects the water level in the outer tub 20 as a first water level Wa using the water level sensor 53 and stores it in the memory unit 202 (S104).

[0067] Next, the control unit 201 monitors whether the top cover 15 is closed (S105). When the top cover 15 is closed (S105: YES), the control unit 201 detects the water level in the outer tub 20 as the second water level Wb using the water level sensor 53 and stores it in the memory unit 202 (S106).

[0068] The control unit 201 determines whether or not the difference value obtained by subtracting the first water level Wa from the second water level Wb, i.e., the water level rise value, exceeds the threshold value ΔTh (S107). When laundry is added to the washing and spin-drying tub 22, the water level rise value exceeds the threshold value ΔTh.

[0069] If the water level rise value exceeds the threshold value ΔTh (S107: YES), the control unit 201 determines that laundry has been added and sets an addition flag provided in the storage unit 202 (S108).Then, the control unit 201 executes a priority determination process to determine whether to prioritize performance or time based on the history of washing operations (S109).

[0070] Referring to Fig. 5, the control unit 201 determines whether the number of times the standard course washing operation has been performed in the past is less than the number of times the time-saving course washing operation has been performed in the past (S201). The time-saving course is an operating course that has lower washing performance but shorter operating time than the standard course, and prioritizes time over performance. The control unit 201 counts the number of times the standard course and the time-saving course washing operation are performed each time a washing operation is performed and stores the count in the memory unit 202. If the number of times the standard course has been performed is less than the number of times the time-saving course has been performed, it can be assumed that the user tends to prioritize time, and if the number of times the standard course has been performed is more than the number of times the time-saving course has been performed, it can be assumed that the user tends to prioritize performance.

[0071] If the number of times of the standard course is less than the number of times of the time-saving course (S201: YES), the control unit 201 determines to prioritize time (S202), and if the number of times of the standard course is equal to or greater than the number of times of the time-saving course (S201: NO), the control unit 201 determines to prioritize performance (S203).Then, the control unit 201 stores the determination result in the storage unit 202 (S204).In this way, the priority determination process ends.

[0072] 4, when it is determined in the priority determination process that time is to be prioritized (S110: YES), the control unit 201 causes the operation display unit 60 to display a first information screen 320 (S111). As shown in FIG. 6(b), the first information screen 320 includes information 301 indicating that the operation is paused, remaining time 302, and a resume button 303, as well as information 304 indicating that laundry has been added and information 305 indicating that time is to be prioritized.

[0073] On the other hand, when the control unit 201 determines in the priority determination process to prioritize performance (S110: NO), it causes the operation display unit 60 to display the second information screen 330 (S112). As shown in Fig. 6(c), the second information screen 330 includes information 301 indicating that the machine is paused, remaining time 302, and a resume button 303, as well as information 304 indicating that laundry has been added and information 306 indicating that performance is prioritized.

[0074] If the control unit 201 determines in S107 that the water level rise value does not exceed the threshold value ΔTh (S107: NO), it determines whether or not the difference value obtained by subtracting the second water level Wb from the first water level Wa, i.e., the water level fall value, exceeds the threshold value ΔTh (S113). If some laundry has been removed from the washing and spin-drying tub 22, the water level fall value exceeds the threshold value ΔTh.

[0075] If the water level drop value exceeds the threshold value ΔTh (S113: YES), the control unit 201 determines that the laundry has been removed and sets a removal flag provided in the memory unit 202 (S114). Then, the control unit 201 causes the operation display unit 60 to display a third information screen 340 (S115). As shown in FIG. 7(a), the third information screen 340 includes information 301 indicating that the operation is paused, remaining time 302, and a resume button 303, as well as information 307 indicating that the laundry has been removed and information 306 indicating that performance is prioritized.

[0076] If the water level drop value does not exceed the threshold value ΔTh (S113: NO), the control unit 201 determines that laundry has not been added or removed, and causes the operation display unit 60 to display a fourth information screen 350 (S116). As shown in FIG. 7(b), the fourth information screen 350 includes information 301 indicating that the operation is paused, remaining time 302, and a resume button 303, as well as information 308 indicating that the laundry has not been changed.

[0077] When any one of the first information screen 320 to the fourth information screen 350 is displayed on the operation display unit 60, the control unit 201 monitors whether or not a restart operation has been performed (S117). Then, when a restart operation has been performed (S117: YES), the control unit 201 ends the paused processing.

[0078] When the washing operation is temporarily stopped during the intermediate spin-drying step, the control unit 201 performs a pause process for the intermediate spin-drying step. When the washing operation is temporarily stopped during the final spin-drying step, the control unit 201 performs a pause process for the final spin-drying step.

[0079] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the pause processing for the intermediate spin-drying step. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the pause processing for the final spin-drying step. Figs. 10(a) and 10(b) are diagrams showing examples of a fifth information screen 360 and a sixth information screen 370, respectively.

[0080] 8, when control unit 201 pauses the washing operation during the intermediate spin-drying step, it causes operation / display unit 60 to display pause initial screen 310 shown in FIG. 6(a) (S301). Then, control unit 201 monitors whether or not top lid 15 has been opened and whether or not a restart operation has been performed (S302, S303). When a restart operation has been performed without top lid 15 being opened (S302: NO → S303: YES), control unit 201 ends the pause processing.

[0081] When the top lid 15 is opened (S302: YES), the control unit 201 then waits for the top lid 15 to be closed (S304). When the top lid 15 is closed (S304: YES), the control unit 201 displays a fifth information screen 360 on the operation display unit 60 (S305). As shown in FIG. 10(a), the fifth information screen 360 includes information 301 indicating that the laundry is paused, remaining time 302, a resume button 303, and information 308 indicating that the laundry has not been changed, as well as an add button 308a and a remove button 308b, and a message 308c that prompts the user to operate the buttons when adding or removing laundry.

[0082] When the user adds laundry, the user operates the add button 308a as an addition notification operation to notify the user of the addition on the fifth information screen 360. When the user removes some of the laundry, the user operates the remove button 308b on the fifth information screen 360 as a removal notification operation to notify the user of the removal.

[0083] If an additional notification operation is performed before a resume operation is performed (S306: NO → S307: YES), the control unit 201 sets an additional flag (S309) and performs the priority determination process shown in Fig. 5 (S310). If a decision is made to prioritize time (S311: YES), the control unit 201 causes the operation display unit 60 to display the first information screen 320 (S312), and if a decision is made to prioritize performance (S311: NO), the control unit 201 causes the operation display unit 60 to display the second information screen 330 (S313).

[0084] On the other hand, if a removal notification operation is performed before a resume operation is performed (S307: NO → S308: YES), the control unit 201 sets the removal flag (S314) and causes the operation display unit 60 to display the third information screen 340 (S315).

[0085] When a resume operation is performed while any of the fifth information screen 360, the first information screen 320, or the third information screen 340 is displayed on the operation display unit 60 (S306: YES), the control unit 201 ends the paused processing.

[0086] 9, when control unit 201 pauses the washing operation during the final spin-drying step, it causes operation display unit 60 to display pause initial screen 310 shown in FIG. 6(a) (S401). Then, control unit 201 monitors whether or not top lid 15 has been opened and whether or not a restart operation has been performed (S402, S403). When a restart operation has been performed without top lid 15 being opened (S402: NO → S403: YES), control unit 201 ends the pause processing.

[0087] When the top cover 15 is opened (S402: YES), the control unit 201 then waits for the top cover 15 to be closed (S404). When the top cover 15 is closed (S404: YES), the control unit 201 displays a sixth information screen 370 on the operation display unit 60 (S405). As shown in FIG. 10(b), the sixth information screen 370 includes information 301 indicating that operation is paused, a remaining time 302, and a resume button 303, as well as an increase button 302a and a decrease button 302b associated with the remaining time 302, and a message 302c notifying the user that the operation time, i.e., the spin time, can be changed by operating the buttons.

[0088] When the user wants to increase the spin time, for example, because they have added laundry, they operate the increase button 302a, and when the user wants to decrease the spin time, for example, because they have removed laundry, they operate the decrease button 302b. Each time the increase button 302a or decrease button 302b is pressed, the time is increased or decreased by a predetermined amount (for example, 10 seconds).

[0089] If a time change operation is performed using increase button 302a and decrease button 302b before the restart operation is performed (S406: NO → S407: YES), control unit 201 changes the spin-drying time (S408). If a restart operation is performed (S406: YES), control unit 201 ends the paused processing.

[0090] The control unit 201 executes the operation condition adjustment process when the washing operation is resumed in response to a restart operation in each step. The memory unit 202 stores the operation condition adjustment file 202a used in the operation condition adjustment process.

[0091] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the structure of the operating condition adjustment file 202a.

[0092] The operating condition adjustment file 202a provides adjustment values ​​for the operating conditions of process time, water level, and motor rotation speed for each of multiple (six) adjustment levels. The adjustment levels include multiple (three) increase levels and multiple (three) decrease levels. The process time is the wash time in the washing process, the rinse time in the rinsing process, and the spin time in the intermediate spinning process and the final spinning process. The water level is the wash water level in the washing process and the rinse water level in the rinsing process. The motor rotation speed is the rotation speed of the drive motor 31 when rotating the pulsator 24 in the washing process and the rinsing process. When the motor rotation speed is changed, the rotation speed of the pulsator 24 is changed, and the strength of the water flow is changed. Note that in the operating condition adjustment file 202a of FIG. 11, a "+" sign indicates an increase, and a "-" sign indicates a decrease.

[0093] When the addition flag is set due to the addition of laundry, the control unit 201 executes the operation condition adjustment process when laundry is added.

[0094] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation condition adjustment process when laundry is added.

[0095] 12, control unit 201 determines the adjustment level, i.e., the increase level, depending on the magnitude of the water level rise value, i.e., the amount of laundry added (S501). The more laundry added, the higher the increase level is set. Note that in the intermediate spin cycle, the amount of laundry added is unknown because it is determined that laundry has been added based on operation of add button 308a on fifth information screen 360. Therefore, the increase level is set to a predetermined level.

[0096] Next, if the control unit 201 has determined that performance is prioritized (S502: YES), it reads out the adjustment values ​​for the process time, water level, and motor rotation speed corresponding to the determined increase level from the operating condition adjustment file 202a, and increases the process time, water level, and motor rotation speed by the adjustment values ​​(S503).

[0097] On the other hand, if the time priority is determined (S502: NO), the control unit 201 reads the adjustment value of the motor rotation speed corresponding to the determined increase level from the operating condition adjustment file 202a, and increases the motor rotation speed by the adjustment value (S504). The process time and water level values ​​are not increased.

[0098] In this way, when the control unit 201 determines that time is prioritized, it adjusts the operation conditions so that the operation time of the washing operation is not longer than when the control unit 201 determines that performance is prioritized.

[0099] If the timing to resume the washing operation is during the washing process (S505: YES) and the remaining time of the washing process after adjustment is longer than a predetermined time (e.g., 2 minutes) (S506: YES), the control unit 201 increases the amount of detergent to be dispensed (S507) and the amount of fabric softener to be dispensed (S508).These increases in dosage correspond to the amount of laundry added.

[0100] If the restart timing is during the washing cycle (S505: YES) but the remaining time of the washing cycle after adjustment is less than or equal to a predetermined time (S506: NO), or if the restart timing is after the end of the washing cycle (S505: NO) but before the start of the final rinsing cycle (S509: YES), the control unit 201 increases the amount of fabric softener dispensed (S508). Note that if the rinsing cycle is performed only once, that one rinsing cycle will be the final rinsing cycle.

[0101] In this way, after laundry is added and the washing operation is resumed in each step, the washing operation is performed according to the operating conditions adjusted by the operating condition adjustment process of Fig. 12. If the water level is increased during the washing step or rinsing step, water supply device 100 supplies water to the adjusted water level. If the amount of detergent added during the washing step is increased, the water supply device 100 automatically adds the increased amount of detergent.

[0102] When the removal flag is set due to the removal of laundry, the control unit 201 executes the operation condition adjustment process when the laundry is removed.

[0103] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the operation condition adjustment process when laundry is removed.

[0104] 13, control unit 201 determines the adjustment level, i.e., the reduction level, depending on the magnitude of the water level decrease value, i.e., the amount of laundry removed (S601). The greater the amount of laundry removed, the higher the reduction level is set. Note that in the intermediate spin-drying step, the amount of laundry removed is unknown because it is determined that laundry has been removed based on operation of removal button 308b on fifth information screen 360. Therefore, the reduction level is set to a predetermined level.

[0105] Next, if the rinse step remains (S602: YES), control unit 201 reads out the adjustment values ​​for the water level and motor rotation speed corresponding to the determined reduction level from operation condition adjustment file 202a, and reduces the water level and motor rotation speed for the remaining rinse step by the adjustment values ​​(S603). Furthermore, control unit 201 reduces the amount of fabric softener dispensed (S604).

[0106] In this way, after the laundry is removed and the washing operation is resumed in each step, the washing operation is carried out according to the operating conditions adjusted by the operating condition adjustment process of FIG.

[0107] <Effects of the embodiment> As described above, according to this embodiment, when the top lid 15 is opened or closed while the washing operation is temporarily stopped, the control unit 201 determines whether laundry has been added to or removed from the washing and spin-drying tub 22, and adjusts the operating conditions (process time, water level, motor rotation speed) after the washing operation is resumed based on the determination result and the washing operation history.

[0108] With this configuration, when laundry is added or removed while the wash cycle is paused, it is possible to adjust the operating conditions to a more desirable level, taking into account not only the change in the amount of laundry but also the history of the wash cycle.

[0109] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the control unit 201 determines that laundry has been added, it decides whether to prioritize performance or time based on the history of washing operations, and when it decides to prioritize time, it adjusts the operating conditions so that the operating time of the washing operation is not longer than when it decides to prioritize performance.

[0110] According to this configuration, when laundry is added, it is possible to adjust the operating conditions appropriately depending on whether the user tends to prioritize performance or time.

[0111] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, when control unit 201 determines that laundry has been added and decides to prioritize time, it causes operation and display unit 60 to display first information screen 320 including information 304 indicating that laundry has been added and information 305 indicating that time is prioritized, and when it determines that performance is prioritized, it causes operation and display unit 60 to display second information screen 330 including information 304 indicating that laundry has been added and information 306 indicating that performance is prioritized. Furthermore, when control unit 201 determines that laundry has been removed, it causes operation and display unit 60 to display third information screen 340 including information 307 indicating that laundry has been removed.

[0112] According to this configuration, the user can easily check whether it has been determined that laundry has been added or removed from the first information screen 320, the second information screen 330, and the third information screen 340 displayed on the operation display unit 60, and can also easily check which of time and performance has priority.

[0113] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, during the washing and rinsing processes, the control unit 201 determines whether laundry has been added or removed based on the first water level Wa detected by the water level sensor 53 when the top lid 15 is opened and the second water level Wb detected by the water level sensor 53 when the top lid 15 is closed.

[0114] According to this configuration, the user does not need to perform any operation to inform the fully automatic washing machine 1 whether laundry has been added or removed, which can save the user time and effort.

[0115] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the top lid 15 is opened and then closed during the spin-drying process, the control unit 201 accepts an operation (operation of the add button 308a or the remove button 308b) performed on the operation display unit 60 depending on whether laundry has been added or removed, and determines whether laundry has been added or removed based on the operation.

[0116] With this configuration, even during the spin cycle when water level changes cannot be utilized, it is possible to determine whether laundry has been added or removed, and the operating conditions can be adjusted based on the addition or removal of laundry.

[0117] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications to the embodiments of the present invention are possible.

[0118] <Change example 1> FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a configuration according to the first modification example, which allows switching between time priority and performance priority.

[0119] In this modified example, information 305 indicating that time is prioritized on the first information screen 320 and information 306 indicating that performance is prioritized on the second information screen 330 function as buttons (icons) for changing the priority.

[0120] The operation display unit 60 accepts, as a first operation, an operation of pressing information 305 indicating that time is prioritized on the first information screen 320, and accepts, as a second operation, an operation of pressing information 306 indicating that performance is prioritized on the second information screen 330.

[0121] When the control unit 201 receives the first operation, it switches the display on the operation display unit 60 from the first information screen 320 to the second information screen 330 and also changes the display from time priority to performance priority. When the control unit 201 receives the second operation, it switches the display on the operation display unit 60 from the second information screen 330 to the first information screen 320 and also changes the display from performance priority to time priority.

[0122] According to this configuration, the user can change the priority result determined based on the laundry operation history as needed.

[0123] <Change example 2> Fig. 15 is a diagram illustrating a configuration according to Modification Example 2, in which the adjustment level when laundry is added can be manually set. Fig. 16 is a diagram illustrating a configuration according to Modification Example 2, in which the adjustment level when laundry is removed can be manually set.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 15, on the first information screen 320, information 304 indicating that laundry has been added functions as a button (icon) for switching so that the adjustment level when laundry is added can be manually changed.

[0125] When information 304 indicating that laundry has been added is pressed on the first information screen 320, the control unit 201 changes the information 304 to information 304a indicating that the adjustment level is +1, and sets the adjustment level to +1. Thereafter, when information 304a is pressed, the control unit 201 changes the information 304a to information 304b indicating that the adjustment level is +2, and sets the adjustment level to +2. Furthermore, when information 304b is pressed, the control unit 201 changes the information 304b to information 304c indicating that the adjustment level is +3, and sets the adjustment level to +3.

[0126] The same changes as those on the first information screen 320 can be made on the second information screen 330 as well.

[0127] In S501 of the operation condition adjustment process when laundry is added in FIG. 12, the manually set adjustment level is set as the determined adjustment level.

[0128] As shown in FIG. 16, on the third information screen 340, information 307 indicating that laundry has been removed functions as a button (icon) for switching so that the adjustment level when laundry is removed can be manually changed.

[0129] When information 307 indicating that laundry has been removed is pressed on third information screen 340, control unit 201 changes information 307 to information 307a indicating that the adjustment level is -1, and sets the adjustment level to -1. Thereafter, when information 307a is pressed, control unit 201 changes information 307a to information 307b indicating that the adjustment level is -2, and sets the adjustment level to -2. Furthermore, when information 307b is pressed, control unit 201 changes information 307b to information 307c indicating that the adjustment level is -3, and sets the adjustment level to -3.

[0130] In S601 of the operation condition adjustment process when laundry is removed in FIG. 13, the manually set adjustment level is set as the determined adjustment level.

[0131] According to this configuration, the user can set the adjustment level according to the amount of laundry to be added or removed.

[0132] <Other change examples> After the first information screen 320, the second information screen 330, the third information screen 340, and the fourth information screen 350 are displayed, the determination results of whether laundry has been added, removed, or left unchanged may be changed by a user operation. In this case, on the first information screen 320 or the second information screen 330, information 304 indicating that laundry has been added functions as a change button, and pressing the information 304 once switches to the third information screen 340, and pressing the information 304 twice switches to the fourth information screen 350. Also, on the third information screen 340, information 307 indicating that laundry has been removed functions as a change button, and pressing the information 307 once switches to the first information screen 320 or the second information screen 330, and pressing the information 307 twice switches to the fourth information screen 350. Furthermore, on the fourth information screen 350, information 308 indicating that the laundry has not been changed functions as a change button, and when the information 308 is pressed once, the screen switches to the first information screen 320 or the second information screen 330, and when the information 308 is pressed twice, the screen switches to the third information screen 340. In response to these changes in the information screen, the determination results of addition, removal, and no change are changed.

[0133] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, when the control unit 201 determines that laundry has been removed in the paused process of Fig. 4 or Fig. 8, the control unit 201 prioritizes performance without executing the priority determination process of Fig. 5. However, the control unit 201 may also execute the priority determination process of Fig. 5 when it determines that laundry has been removed, and determine whether to prioritize time or performance. In this case, in the operation condition adjustment process of Fig. 13, the control unit 201 determines whether to prioritize time or performance, and reduces the process time if time is prioritized.

[0134] Furthermore, the pause initial screen 310 and the first information screen 320 to the sixth information screen 370 displayed on the operation display unit 60 may include not only the remaining time of the washing operation but also the remaining time of the currently running process. In this case, the user can decide whether to add or remove laundry, for example, not to add laundry if there is little time left in the washing process.

[0135] Furthermore, it may be determined whether the user tends to prioritize water conservation over performance based on the history of washing operations. For example, if the number of times shower rinse was performed is greater than the number of times pool rinse was performed in the rinsing process of past washing operations, control unit 201 may determine that the user tends to prioritize water conservation over performance. If this determination is made, control unit 201 does not increase the water level in S503 of the operation condition adjustment process when laundry is added in FIG. 12.

[0136] Furthermore, on the third information screen 340, information 306 indicating that performance is prioritized may function as a button, and when the information 306 is pressed, the display on the operation display unit 60 may switch to an information screen including information 305 indicating that time is prioritized, and the priority may be changed from performance priority to time priority.

[0137] Furthermore, operating conditions other than the process time, water level, and motor rotation speed may be adjusted based on the determination result of whether laundry has been added or removed and the history of the washing operation.

[0138] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a fully automatic washing machine 1 has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to washing machines other than the fully automatic washing machine 1, for example, drum-type washing machines that have a horizontal-axis drum as an inner tub inside an outer tub and have an inlet and a door on the front of the housing. The present invention can also be applied to fully automatic washer-dryers and drum-type washer-dryers that have a drying function.

[0139] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention can be modified in various ways as appropriate within the scope of the technical ideas set forth in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 1. Fully automatic washing machine (washing machine) 10. Cabinet 14 Inlet 15 Top cover (door) 20 Outer tank 22 Washing spin tub (inner tub) 53 Water level sensor 60 Operation display section (operation section, display section) 70 Lid open / close detector (open / close detector) 201 Control Unit 304 Information indicating that laundry has been added 305 Information indicating time priority 306 Information indicating that performance is a priority 307 Information indicating that laundry has been removed 320 1st information screen 330 Second information screen 340 Third information screen

Claims

1. an outer tank disposed within the housing and configured to store water; an inner tub rotatably disposed within the outer tub and configured to accommodate laundry; an inlet provided in the housing and leading to the inner tank; a door covering the insertion port; an opening / closing detection unit that detects the opening / closing of the door; a control unit that executes a washing operation including a washing step, a rinsing step, and a spin-drying step; an operation unit that accepts a pause operation for pausing the washing operation and a resume operation for resuming the washing operation; When the door is opened or closed while the washing operation is temporarily stopped, the control unit determines whether laundry has been added to or removed from the inner tub, and adjusts the operating conditions after the washing operation is resumed based on the determination result and the history of the washing operation. A washing machine characterized by:

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, When the control unit determines that laundry has been added, determining whether to prioritize performance or time based on the history of the washing operation; When a decision is made to prioritize time, the operation conditions are adjusted so that the operation time of the washing operation is not longer than when a decision is made to prioritize performance. A washing machine characterized by:

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, Further provided with a display unit for displaying a screen, The control unit When it is determined that laundry has been added, if a decision is made to prioritize time, a first information screen including information indicating that laundry has been added and information indicating that time will be prioritized is displayed on the display unit, and when a decision is made to prioritize performance, a second information screen including information indicating that laundry has been added and information indicating that performance will be prioritized is displayed on the display unit; when it is determined that the laundry has been removed, displaying a third information screen including information indicating that the laundry has been removed on the display unit; A washing machine characterized by:

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, The operation unit includes: receiving a first operation for changing from a time priority to a performance priority while the first information screen is displayed on the display unit; receiving a second operation for changing from performance priority to time priority while the second information screen is displayed on the display unit; The control unit changing from a time priority to a performance priority based on the operation unit receiving the first operation; changing the priority from performance to time based on the second operation being received by the operation unit; A washing machine characterized by:

5. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Further provided is a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the outer tank, The control unit determines whether laundry has been added or removed in the washing process and the rinsing process based on a first water level detected by the water level sensor when the door is opened and a second water level detected by the water level sensor when the door is closed. A washing machine characterized by:

6. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the control unit, when the door is opened and then closed during the spin-drying process, accepts an operation performed by the operation unit depending on whether laundry has been added or removed, and determines whether laundry has been added or removed based on the operation. A washing machine characterized by:

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