Washing machine, washing method and washing system

Abstract

To provide a washing machine with improved convenience.SOLUTION: A washing machine according to the present disclosure includes a storage tub configured to store an object, a tank configured to store a first treatment agent, an automatic feeding device configured to supply the first treatment agent stored in the tank to the storage tub, and a controller configured to acquire a type of the first treatment agent, wherein when an automatic feeding setting of the first treatment agent is ON, the controller proposes or sets a predetermined course as a washing course to be executed in accordance with the acquired type of the first treatment agent.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine, a washing method, and a washing system. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a washing machine having a washing tub for storing laundry, an automatic detergent dispenser for dispensing detergent, and an automatic auxiliary agent dispenser for dispensing auxiliary agents.

[0003] The washing machine described in Patent Document 1 is capable of executing a washing course in which an auxiliary agent is automatically dispensed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-65406 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the washing machine described in Patent Document 1, the user is required to find and select a washing course that automatically dispenses the auxiliary agent from among various washing courses, so there is still room for improvement in terms of improving user convenience.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problems and to provide a washing machine with improved convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a storage tub for storing an object, a tank for storing a first treatment agent, an automatic dispensing device for supplying the first treatment agent stored in the tank to the storage tub, and a control unit for acquiring the type of the first treatment agent. When the automatic dispensing setting for the first treatment agent is ON, the control unit suggests or sets a predetermined washing course to be performed depending on the acquired type of first treatment agent.

[0008] A washing method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a control unit acquiring the type of first treatment agent contained in the tank, and when the dispensing setting for the first treatment agent is ON, the control unit proposing or setting a predetermined course as the washing course to be executed according to the acquired type of first treatment agent, and an automatic dispensing device supplying the first treatment agent to a storage tank containing an object in the predetermined course.

[0009] A laundry system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a washing machine having a storage tub for storing an object, a tank for storing a first treatment agent, and an automatic dispensing device for supplying the first treatment agent stored in the tank to the storage tub; and a processing device that communicates with the washing machine via a network and acquires the type of the first treatment agent. When the dispensing setting for the first treatment agent is ON, the processing device suggests or sets a predetermined washing course to be performed depending on the acquired type of first treatment agent. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine with improved convenience can be provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] Schematic front view of a washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Schematic cross-section of a washing machine [Figure 3] Perspective view of the automatic insertion unit [Figure 4] Schematic diagram of the automatic feeding unit [Figure 5A] Flowchart of washing machine operation [Figure 5B]Flowchart of washing machine operation [Figure 6] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 7] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 8] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 9] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 10] Schematic diagram of the operation display section [Figure 11] Schematic diagram of a laundry system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] (Embodiment 1) A washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0013] Fig. 1 is a schematic front view of a washing machine 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the washing machine 1.

[0014] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment is a drum type washing machine having a washing function. The washing machine 1 is capable of executing a plurality of different washing courses to perform the washing function. The washing machine 1 may further have a drying function.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the washing machine 1 includes a housing 2, an outer tub 3, a drum 4, a drive unit 5 (FIG. 2), a water supply valve 10, a drain valve 11, a laundry amount detection unit 15 (FIG. 2), a control unit 16, a memory unit 16a, an operation display unit 17, and a power button 29.

[0016] The washing machine 1 further includes an automatic dispensing unit 6 and a connecting flow path 8, which supplies a treatment agent to the outer tub 3. The treatment agent is used when treating objects such as clothes, towels, and sheets in the washing machine 1. The treatment agent may be liquid, powder, or solid.

[0017] The housing 2 is a member that forms the exterior of the washing machine 1. As shown in Fig. 2, an opening 20 and a door 21 that covers the opening 20 and can be opened and closed are provided on the front surface of the housing 2.

[0018] The outer tub 3 is a generally cylindrical member provided inside the housing 2 and functions to store wash water. The outer tub 3 may also be called a water tub or a tub. The outer tub 3 is provided in an opening 31 at a position facing the opening 20 of the housing 2, and the edge of the opening 31 is connected to the opening 20 by a bellows 32. The axis passing through the center of the bottom of the outer tub 3 is defined as a central axis V0. The outer tub 3 is disposed at an angle such that the central axis V0 is at an angle with respect to the horizontal.

[0019] The drum 4 is a generally cylindrical member that is rotatable around a central axis V0 inside the outer tub 3 and can accommodate laundry. The drum 4 may also be referred to as a washing tub, an inner tub, or a storage tub. The drum 4 has a number of through-holes 40 that connect the drum 4 to the outer tub 3. The drum 4 has an opening 41 at a position facing the opening 20 in the housing 2 and the opening 31 in the outer tub 3. When the user opens the door 21, they can place laundry into the drum 4 through the openings 20, 31, and 41.

[0020] The driving unit 5 is a member that drives the drum 4 to rotate around the central axis V0. The driving unit 5 has, for example, a motor that rotates the drum 4.

[0021] The automatic dispensing unit 6 is a device that automatically dispenses a predetermined amount of treatment agent from a tank that stores multiple doses of treatment agent into the outer tub 3. The predetermined amount of treatment agent in the automatic dispensing unit 6 is an appropriate amount and type of treatment agent determined by the control unit 16 in accordance with, for example, the weight of the laundry, the amount of water supplied, or user input.

[0022] In the first embodiment, the treatment agent supplied from the tank of the automatic dispensing unit 6 to the outer tub 3 includes a detergent, a fabric softener, and an auxiliary agent. The detergent is a treatment agent that removes ordinary stains by penetrating, wetting, emulsifying, solubilizing, dispersing, and other actions. The fabric softener is a treatment agent that improves the feel of the target object. The auxiliary agent differs from the detergent and fabric softener and is a treatment agent that supports the effects of the detergent and fabric softener. To distinguish it from the auxiliary agent, in the first embodiment, the detergent and fabric softener may be referred to as essential agents. The fabric softener may be classified as an auxiliary agent, and the auxiliary agent may be a treatment agent different from the detergent.

[0023] Specifically, the auxiliary agent is a treatment agent that has a different role from the detergent or fabric softener, such as further enhancing the basic performance of the detergent, such as cleaning, or adding new performance. Specifically, the auxiliary agent may be a fiber protection agent such as an anti-pilling agent or an anti-fuzzing agent, a pre-washing agent added before the detergent, a disinfectant, an anti-redeposition agent, a bleaching agent, or an enzyme.

[0024] The user can input the type of auxiliary agent to the control unit 16 via the operation display unit 17. The control unit 16 can set the type of auxiliary agent received by the operation display unit 17.

[0025] The washing machine 1 can execute dedicated washing courses suitable for each auxiliary agent, which can be set by the control unit 16. In this specification, a "dedicated course" refers to a washing course that includes operations specialized for a certain treatment agent in order to maximize the effect of that treatment agent.

[0026] The connection flow path 8 connects the automatic dosing unit 6 to the outer tank 3. Therefore, water and treatment agent flow from the automatic dosing unit 6 into the outer tank 3 through the connection flow path 8. Because the automatic dosing unit 6 is disposed above the outer tank 3, the connection flow path 8 extends downward.

[0027] The water supply valve 10 has an openable / closable valve connected to a water faucet via an external hose. When the water supply valve 10 is opened, water is supplied to the outer tub 3. Specifically, when the water supply valve 10 is opened, water flows into the outer tub 3 via the automatic dosing unit 6 and the connecting flow path 8. Instead of or in addition to the water supply valve 10, another water supply device may be provided to supply water to the outer tub 3 and the drum 4.

[0028] The drain valve 11 is a valve that can be opened and closed, and when closed, it stores water in the outer tub 3, and when open, it drains the water stored in the outer tub 3. The drain valve 11 is provided below the outer tub 3. However, instead of the drain valve 11, another drain device for draining water from the drum 4 may be provided.

[0029] The laundry amount detection unit 15 has a sensor that detects the amount of laundry accommodated in the drum 4. The laundry amount detection unit 15 has, for example, a sensor that measures the weight of the laundry. Specifically, the laundry amount detection unit 15 has a sensor that measures the voltage applied to the motor of the drive unit 5, and a control circuit that converts the measured voltage into a torque applied to the drive unit 5 when the drive unit 5 rotates, and calculates the weight of the laundry based on the torque. Alternatively, the laundry amount detection unit 15 may be included in the control unit 16.

[0030] Control unit 16 is a controller that controls washing machine 1. Control unit 16 controls components of washing machine 1 such as drive unit 5, automatic dosing unit 6, water supply valve 10, drain valve 11, and operation display unit 17. Control unit 16 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU, MPU, FPGA, DSP, or ASIC that executes a program to realize predetermined functions. Control unit 16 can realize various controls of washing machine 1 by calling and executing control programs stored in memory unit 16a. Control unit 16 is not limited to a controller that realizes predetermined functions through cooperation between hardware and software, and may be a hardware circuit designed specifically to realize predetermined functions.

[0031] The storage unit 16a is a recording medium that records various information and control programs, and may be a memory that functions as a work area for the control unit 16. The storage unit 16a is realized by, for example, a flash memory, an SSD (Solid State Device), a hard disk, a RAM, other storage devices, or an appropriate combination of these.

[0032] The memory unit 16a can store information about the processing agent contained in the tank of the automatic dispensing unit 6. Specifically, the memory unit 16a can store the type of processing agent and the automatic dispensing setting for each processing agent contained in the tank.

[0033] The type of treatment agent is information for identifying the type of treatment agent, and may be the name of the type of treatment agent or the brand name.

[0034] The automatic dispensing setting is information on whether or not a treatment agent is automatically dispensed when a wash course to be dispensed is executed, and in the first embodiment, it is one of the following: not set / standard / low / high / OFF. If the type of treatment agent is not stored, the automatic dispensing setting is "not set," and automatic dispensing of the treatment agent is not executed. If the type of treatment agent is stored, the automatic dispensing setting is "standard," "low," "high," or "OFF." If the automatic dispensing setting is "standard," "low," or "high," automatic dispensing of the treatment agent is executed in the wash course to be dispensed. The "standard," "low," and "high" settings may be collectively referred to as the "ON" setting. If the automatic dispensing setting is OFF, automatic dispensing of the treatment agent is not executed in the wash course to be dispensed. If the automatic dispensing setting is "low," the amount of treatment agent dispensed is less than in the "standard" setting, and if the automatic dispensing setting is "high," the amount of treatment agent dispensed is more than in the "standard" setting.

[0035] The memory unit 16a also stores information about wash courses that can be executed by the washing machine 1. The information about the wash courses includes the names of the wash courses and the operating conditions of the wash courses. Specifically, the operating conditions of the wash courses include the operating conditions of the drive unit 5, the operating conditions of the automatic dosing unit 6, the opening and closing conditions of the water supply valve 10, and the opening and closing conditions of the drain valve 11 for each of the washing process, rinsing process, and spin-drying process.

[0036] The memory unit 16a stores the operating conditions of dedicated washing courses suitable for each auxiliary agent, among the washing courses executable by the washing machine 1, along with information on the type of auxiliary agent. That is, the memory unit 16a stores the correspondence between the auxiliary agent and the dedicated courses suitable for that auxiliary agent. In the first embodiment, the memory unit 16a stores two dedicated courses for one auxiliary agent, but it may store one or three or more dedicated courses for one auxiliary agent.

[0037] The storage unit 16a may further store operating conditions for operating courses other than the washing course, such as a demonstration course.

[0038] Operation display unit 17 is configured by integrally combining an operation unit operated by the user and a display unit that displays to the user information related to washing machine 1. In the first embodiment, operation display unit 17 has an LED touch panel.

[0039] Operation display unit 17 accepts information input by the user, and control unit 16 can set the information accepted by operation display unit 17. Here, "setting" means that control unit 16 stores the information in storage unit 16a. In the first embodiment, control unit 16 immediately sets the information accepted by operation display unit 17, but may also set the information in response to a specific operation.

[0040] The operation display unit 17 receives information input by the user after the power of the washing machine 1 is turned on and before the start of a washing course. The received information includes the types of treatment agents contained in the tanks, the automatic dispensing setting, and information about the washing course to be executed.

[0041] Regarding the type of treatment agent, in the first embodiment, the operation display unit 17 displays the names of a plurality of types of treatment agent and accepts a user's selection.

[0042] In the first embodiment, the operation display unit 17 displays "Standard," "Low," "High," or "OFF" for the automatic dispensing setting and accepts the user's selection. Note that before setting the type of processing agent or after changing the type of processing agent, the control unit 16 sets the automatic dispensing setting to "Not set."

[0043] In the first embodiment, operation display unit 17 displays the names of multiple washing courses and accepts a user's selection of the information related to the washing courses. Note that some of the washing courses executable by washing machine 1 may be hidden on operation display unit 17, and may not be inputtable by the user.

[0044] Power button 29 has a button for switching ON / OFF the power of washing machine 1. In the first embodiment, power button 29 is configured separately from operation and display unit 17, but operation and display unit 17 may have power button 29, or a part of operation and display unit 17 may also function as power button 29.

[0045] Next, a more detailed description will be given of the structure of the automatic feeding unit 6. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the automatic feeding unit 6. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of the automatic feeding unit 6.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 3, the automatic dispensing unit 6 has a case 61, tanks 62A to 62C, pump mechanisms 63A to 63C, and a treatment agent discharge flow path 64.

[0047] Case 61 is a container with an open top so as to house three tanks 62 A to 62 C. Pump mechanisms 63 A, 63 B, 63 C, a treatment agent discharge flow path 64, and a water supply valve 10 are connected to rear surface 57 of case 61.

[0048] The tanks 62A to 62C are each a container for storing a processing agent. The tanks 62A to 62C are housed in a state of being lined up on the outer side K1 (the horizontal direction away from the central axis V0 in FIG. 1) of the case 61. The depth and volume of the three tanks 62A to 62C increase on the outer side K1.

[0049] In the first embodiment, taking into consideration the type of treatment agent and the volumes of tanks 62A to 62C, less frequently used treatment agents are stored in tanks with smaller volumes. For example, tank 62C stores a detergent, tank 62B stores a fabric softener, and tank 62A stores an auxiliary agent. Tanks 62A to 62C may also store other types of treatment agents.

[0050] Tanks 62A to 62C are detachable from case 61 so that the processing agent can be replenished when the remaining amount becomes low.

[0051] Pump mechanisms 63A, 63B, and 63C are devices that suck out a predetermined amount of processing agent from tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, respectively, and discharge the processing agent into processing agent discharge flow path 64. As shown in Fig. 4, pump mechanisms 63A, 63B, and 63C are connected to tanks 62A, 62B, and 62C, respectively, in the X direction via rear surface 57 of case 61. While Fig. 4 shows one tank 62A and one pump mechanism 63A, the other tanks 62B to 62C and pump mechanisms 63B to 63C have similar configurations.

[0052] The pump mechanisms 63A, 63B, and 63C of the present embodiment each include a piston pump. However, the pump mechanisms 63A, 63B, and 63C are not limited to those including a piston pump, and may include, for example, an on-off valve mechanism that discharges liquid by gravity, a gear pump, or the like.

[0053] A treatment agent discharge flow path 64 is connected below the pump mechanisms 63A to 63C. The treatment agent discharge flow path 64 is a flow path member connected to the case 61, and returns water flowing in from the case 61 to the treatment agent discharged from the pump mechanisms 63A to 63C after merging with the water, which is returned to the case 61. The case 61 is provided with a flow path below the tanks 62A to 62C, which is connected to the treatment agent discharge flow path 64 and through which the water and the treatment agent flow.

[0054] Next, the flow of water and processing agent in the automatic feeding unit 6 will be described.

[0055] As shown in Fig. 3, water supplied from the water supply valve 10 flows into the case 61 from the top of the case 61 and falls toward the bottom of the case 61. The water passes along the bottom of the case 61, below the tanks 62A to 62C, and is supplied to the outer tank 3 (Fig. 2) via the connecting flow path 8.

[0056] A portion of the water supplied from the water supply valve 10 flows from the case 61 into the treatment agent discharge flow path 64. The treatment agent discharged from the pump mechanisms 63A to 63C into the treatment agent discharge flow path 64 merges with the water in the treatment agent discharge flow path 64. The treatment agent and water flow along the slope of the treatment agent discharge flow path 64, enter the case 61, and are then supplied to the outer tub 3 via the connecting flow path 8. In other words, the treatment agent is supplied to the outer tub 3 by the flow of water that occurs when water is supplied.

[0057] [Operation] An example of the operation of the washing machine 1 having the above configuration will be described with reference to Fig. 5A to Fig. 10. Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B are flowcharts of the operation of the washing machine 1. Fig. 6 to Fig. 10 are schematic diagrams of the operation display unit 17.

[0058] In the following description, as in the above, the tank 62C contains the detergent, the tank 62B contains the fabric softener, and the tank 62A contains the auxiliary agent.

[0059] 5A, operation starts (START) when the user turns on the power of the washing machine 1. Specifically, when the power of the washing machine 1 is in the OFF state, the user presses the power button 29 to switch the power of the washing machine 1 ON.

[0060] Here, or the previous time the power was turned on, the user inputs the type of processing agent contained in tank 62A and inputs "standard," "less," "more," or "off" as the automatic dispensing setting. Control unit 16 sets the input information.

[0061] The user may also input the type of processing agent contained in the tanks 62B to 62C, and input "standard," "less," "more," or "OFF" as the automatic supply setting.

[0062] Next, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the power was turned on, the control unit 16 sets the standard course as the washing course to be executed (S10). The standard course is a washing course executed to wash general clothes, and is the default washing course set in step S10.

[0063] 6, when the standard course is set, the operation display unit 17 displays the operation details of the standard course. In the first embodiment, the operation details include the wash time, the number of rinses, whether or not to perform automatic spin-drying, the type of treatment agent to be automatically dispensed, and the identification information of the tank in which the treatment agent is stored.

[0064] Next, the control unit 16 acquires the type of processing agent contained in the tank 62A and the automatic dispensing setting (S11). Specifically, the control unit 16 references the memory unit 16a and acquires the name of the type of processing agent contained in the tank 62A and the automatic dispensing setting.

[0065] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the automatic dispensing setting for the processing agent contained in the tank 62A is ON (S12). Specifically, the control unit 16 refers to the memory unit 16a and determines whether the automatic dispensing setting for the processing agent contained in the tank 62A is "standard," "less," or "more."

[0066] If the automatic dispensing setting is ON (Yes in S12), the control unit 16 determines whether the type of the acquired processing agent is a supplementary agent (S13).

[0067] If the automatic dispense setting is OFF (No in S12) or the treatment agent is not a supplementary agent (No in S13), the control unit 16 sets the standard course as the wash course to be executed (S14). In other words, the control unit 16 maintains the standard course without suggesting or setting other wash courses such as the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course as the wash course to be executed. When the standard course is set and the user presses the start button on the operation display unit 17 to start execution of the wash course, the standard course is executed (S22).

[0068] If the treatment agent is an auxiliary agent (Yes in S13), the control unit 16 causes the operation display unit 17 to display a course suggestion display 80 (S15). Through the course suggestion display 80, the control unit 16 suggests an operation pattern for changing the washing course to be executed between the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course, and also suggests an operation pattern for rejecting the course change suggestion.

[0069] As shown in Fig. 7, the program suggestion display 80 includes a first display 81, a second display 82, and a first rejection display 83. The first display 81 is a display indicating that the washing program to be executed can be changed from the standard program to the first dedicated program. The second display 82 is a display indicating that the washing program to be executed can be changed from the standard program to the second dedicated program. The first rejection display 83 is a display indicating that the change to the first dedicated program or the second dedicated program can be rejected.

[0070] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the setting of the first dedicated course has been accepted via the operation display unit 17 (S16). Specifically, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the first display 81 has been pressed.

[0071] When the setting of the first dedicated course is accepted (Yes in S16), the control unit 16 sets the washing course to be executed to the first dedicated course (S17). Specifically, when the user presses the first display 81, the control unit 16 sets the first dedicated course as the washing course to be executed.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 8, the first dedicated course is a washing course with operating conditions different from those of the standard course. Specifically, the first dedicated course is a washing course that includes automatic addition of the acquired auxiliary agent and is a washing course that corresponds to the auxiliary agent. The control unit 16 references the memory unit 16a to acquire the operating conditions of the first dedicated course that corresponds to the acquired auxiliary agent. In the first embodiment, the first dedicated course performs an additional pre-wash step before the washing step, has a longer washing step time, and includes more rinse steps than the standard course.

[0073] If the setting of the first dedicated course is not accepted (No in S16), the control unit 16 determines whether or not the setting of the second dedicated course is accepted via the operation display unit 17 (S18). Specifically, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the second display 82 is pressed.

[0074] When the setting of the second dedicated course is accepted (Yes in S18), the control unit 16 sets the washing course to be executed to the second dedicated course (S19). Specifically, when the user presses the second display 82, the control unit 16 sets the second dedicated course as the washing course to be executed.

[0075] 9, the second dedicated course is a washing course with operating conditions different from those of the standard course and the first dedicated course. Specifically, the second dedicated course is a washing course that includes automatic addition of the acquired auxiliary agent and is a washing course that corresponds to the auxiliary agent. As in the case of the first dedicated course, the control unit 16 refers to the memory unit 16a to acquire the operating conditions of the second dedicated course that corresponds to the acquired auxiliary agent.

[0076] The second dedicated course has a smaller difference in operating time from the standard course compared to the first dedicated course. The operating time of a washing course is the total time required from the start of the course to the end of the course. In the first embodiment, the second dedicated course has a longer washing process time but fewer rinsing processes compared to the standard course. Therefore, the difference in operating time between the second dedicated course and the standard course can be made smaller. The operating time of the second dedicated course and the standard course may be the same. Specifically, the operating time (minutes) displayed on the operation display unit 17 is the same for the second dedicated course and the standard course.

[0077] The "first dedicated course" and the "second dedicated course" may be considered by the user to be standard courses when using an auxiliary agent. Therefore, in order to reduce the impression that courses using an auxiliary agent take a long time, the operating time of the second dedicated course may be set to the same as the operating time of the standard course. This reduces the impression given to the user that the operating time is longer than the standard course, even when an auxiliary agent is used.

[0078] If the setting of the second dedicated course is not accepted (No in S18), the control unit 16 determines whether or not a rejection of the proposal of the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course has been accepted via the operation display unit 17 (S20). Specifically, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the first rejection display 83 has been pressed.

[0079] When the controller 16 receives a rejection of the proposal of the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course (Yes in S20), the controller 16 maintains the standard course as the washing course to be executed (S21).

[0080] If the rejection of the proposal of the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course is not accepted (No in S20), the control unit 16 repeats step S16. Note that, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of step S20, the control unit 16 may consider that the rejection of the proposal of the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course has been accepted.

[0081] 5B, after the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course is set as the washing course to be executed, the control unit 16 causes the operation display unit 17 to display a confirmation display 85 (S31). The control unit 16 uses the confirmation display 85 to confirm whether the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course can be executed.

[0082] As shown in Fig. 10, the confirmation display 85 includes a message 86, a third display 87, and a second rejection display 88. The message 86 is a display notifying the user that the wash course to be executed has been changed to the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course. The third display 87 is a display indicating that the wash course can be returned to the standard course. The second rejection display 88 is a display indicating that the suggestion to return to the standard course can be rejected.

[0083] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether or not an operation pattern for returning the setting of the washing course to the standard course has been accepted via the operation display unit 17 (S32). Specifically, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the third display 87 has been pressed.

[0084] When the setting of the operation pattern to return to the standard course is accepted (Yes in S32), the control unit 16 sets the wash course to be executed back to the standard course (S33). Specifically, when the user presses the third display 87, the control unit 16 resets the standard course as the wash course to be executed. When the user presses the start button on the operation display unit 17 to start execution of the wash course while the standard course is set, the standard course is executed (S34).

[0085] If the setting of the operation pattern for returning to the standard course is not accepted (No in S32), the control unit 16 determines whether or not a rejection of the proposal to return to the standard course has been accepted via the operation display unit 17 (S35). Specifically, the control unit 16 determines whether or not the second rejection display 88 has been pressed.

[0086] If the rejection of the proposed operation pattern to return to the standard course is accepted (Yes in S35), the control unit 16 maintains the dedicated course (first dedicated course or second dedicated course) set as the washing course to be executed (S36). When a washing course is set and the user presses the start button on the operation display unit 17 to start execution of the washing course, the first dedicated course or second dedicated course is executed (S37).

[0087] If the rejection of the proposal to return to the standard course is not accepted (No in S35), the control unit 16 repeats step S32. Note that, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of step S35, the control unit 16 may consider that the rejection of the operation pattern to return to the standard course has been accepted.

[0088] (summary) The above explanations are summarized to describe the features of the present disclosure.

[0089] In a washing machine 1 in which tank 62A can store various types of auxiliary agents, the number of dedicated courses increases, making it difficult for a user to select a washing course that is appropriate for them.

[0090] In the washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment, when an auxiliary agent is stored in the tank 62A and set, the control unit 16 can suggest a dedicated washing course suitable for the auxiliary agent based on the type of auxiliary agent. Specifically, the control unit 16 causes the operation display unit 17 to display a course suggestion display 80 that allows the user to change the currently set washing course. By displaying the course suggestion display 80, the control unit 16 can automatically dispense the auxiliary agent and notify the user of the washing machine 1 of the existence of a dedicated course suitable for the auxiliary agent. This also eliminates the need for the user to search for a dedicated course suitable for the auxiliary agent, improving the user's convenience with the washing machine 1.

[0091] In the first embodiment, the control unit 16 proposes a first dedicated course and a second dedicated course. By proposing both the first dedicated course that maximizes the effect of the auxiliary agent and the second dedicated course that has a shorter operating time, the user can select whether to prioritize the effect of the auxiliary agent or the shortened operating time.

[0092] [effect] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment can achieve the following effects.

[0093] As described above, washing machine 1 of embodiment 1 includes drum 4 (storage tank) that stores objects, tank 62A that stores a first treatment agent, and pump mechanism 63A (automatic dispensing device) that supplies the first treatment agent stored in tank 62A to drum 4. Washing machine 1 further includes control unit 16 that acquires the type of first treatment agent. When the automatic dispensing setting for the first treatment agent is ON, control unit 16 suggests or sets a predetermined course (first dedicated course, second dedicated course) as the washing course to be executed, depending on the acquired type of first treatment agent.

[0094] With this configuration, if the predetermined course is a dedicated course suitable for the first treatment agent, the user can easily execute the dedicated course suitable for the first treatment agent, thereby improving the convenience of the washing machine 1.

[0095] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the control unit 16 is capable of executing a standard course (first course) and a first dedicated course or a second dedicated course (second course) that are different from the standard course. The control unit 16 accepts the setting of the standard course as the washing course to be executed, and when the acquired type of the first treatment agent is an auxiliary agent other than a detergent or a fabric softener, suggests or sets the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course as the washing course to be executed.

[0096] This configuration makes it easier to run the first or second dedicated course, which is suited to the auxiliary agent and can demonstrate the effect of the auxiliary agent more effectively than the standard course, thereby further improving the convenience of the washing machine 1.

[0097] Washing machine 1 of embodiment 1 further includes operation display unit 17 (operation unit) that can be operated by a user. Control unit 16 sets the standard course as the washing course to be executed in response to the operation of operation display unit 17, and then suggests or sets the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course as the washing course to be executed.

[0098] With this configuration, even if the user intentionally sets the standard course, the user can be given an opportunity to change the set washing course to the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course.

[0099] The washing machine 1 of the first embodiment further includes a power button 29 for switching the power on and off. In response to the power button 29 being turned on, the control unit 16 accepts the setting of the standard course.

[0100] With this configuration, even if the standard course is set as the default setting, the user can be given the opportunity to change the set washing course to the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course.

[0101] Washing machine 1 of embodiment 1 further includes operation display unit 17 (display unit) that displays information about washing machine 1. After controller 16 suggests or sets the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course as the washing course to be executed, controller 16 causes operation display unit 17 to display message 86 for confirming whether or not the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course can be executed.

[0102] With this configuration, even if the user mistakenly selects the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course, the user can be given an opportunity to return the set washing course to the standard course.

[0103] The washing machine 1 of the first embodiment further includes a storage unit 16a that stores information about washing courses. The first and second dedicated courses are stored in the storage unit 16a in association with the auxiliary agents.

[0104] With this configuration, the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course can be stored in the storage unit as dedicated courses suitable for the supplement.

[0105] The washing method of the first embodiment includes acquiring the type of first treatment agent contained in tank 62A, and when the first treatment agent supply setting is ON, proposing or setting a predetermined course as the washing course to be executed according to the acquired type of first treatment agent. The washing method further includes supplying the first treatment agent to drum 4 containing the object by pump mechanism 63A in the predetermined course.

[0106] With this configuration, if the predetermined course is suitable for the first treatment agent, it becomes easier for the user to execute the washing course suitable for the first treatment agent, thereby improving the convenience of the washing machine 1 for executing the washing method.

[0107] The present disclosure is not limited to the first embodiment, but can be embodied in various other forms.

[0108] In the first embodiment, the central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 is inclined at an angle relative to the horizontal, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the washing machine 1 may be a vertical washing machine, and the central axis V0 of the outer tub 3 may extend in the vertical direction.

[0109] In the first embodiment, an example in which washing machine 1 has operation and display unit 17 configured integrally therewith has been described, but this is not limiting. The operation unit and the display unit may be configured separately. The operation unit may be a plurality of buttons, and the display unit may be a combination of a dial and LEDs or an LCD.

[0110] In the first embodiment, the automatic dosing unit 6 has been described as having pump mechanisms 63A to 63C, but this is not limiting. The automatic dosing unit 6 may have an aspirator-type automatic supply device instead of the pump mechanisms 63A to 63C. The automatic dosing unit 6 may also have one pump mechanism. In this case, the automatic dosing unit 6 has multiple flow paths connecting the pump mechanism to each of the tanks 62A to 62C.

[0111] In the first embodiment, it has been described that when a predetermined time has elapsed since the power of the washing machine 1 was turned on, the control unit 16 sets the standard course as the washing course to be executed, but this is not limited to this. When the power of the washing machine 1 is turned on, the control unit 16 may immediately set the standard course as the washing course to be executed, or may refer to the memory unit 16a and set the washing course to be the washing course that was executed last time. Furthermore, when the power of the washing machine 1 is turned on, the control unit 16 may only display the standard course on the operation display unit 17 and set the standard course as the washing course to be executed in response to a predetermined operation by the user.

[0112] Furthermore, when washing machine 1 is powered on, control unit 16 may cause operation display unit 17 to display a course screen. The course screen displays some of the wash courses that control unit 16 is capable of executing, so that the wash courses can be selected. In this case, the standard course is displayed on the course screen, but the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course are not displayed. With this configuration, by omitting the display of the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course on operation display unit 17, the display on operation display unit 17 can be simplified, reducing the user's effort.

[0113] Note that control unit 16 may cause operation display unit 17 to display a category screen before the course screen. The category screen displays categories of operation courses to be executed by washing machine 1, specifically, the categories of wash only, wash and dry, and dry only are displayed so that they can be selected. Each category includes multiple operation courses. Control unit 16 may change the operation course to be suggested depending on the selected category.

[0114] In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which control unit 16 acquires only information about the processing agent contained in tank 62A, but the present invention is not limited to this. Control unit 16 may also acquire information about the processing agents contained in all of tanks 62A to 62C. In this case, if an auxiliary agent is contained in any of tanks 62A to 62C and the automatic supplementary agent dispensing setting is ON, control unit 16 will suggest the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course.

[0115] In the first embodiment, the example in which control unit 16 references memory unit 16a to acquire information about a preset treatment agent has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. Washing machine 1 may further include a detection unit that detects the type of treatment agent contained in tanks 62A-62C. The detection unit may be, for example, a pH sensor that measures the pH of the treatment agent contained in each of tanks 62A-62C. In this case, control unit 16 acquires information about the treatment agent from the detection unit in real time or at a predetermined timing.

[0116] In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which control unit 16 suggests the first or second dedicated course when the treatment agent contained in tank 62A is an auxiliary agent, but this is not limiting. Control unit 16 may also suggest the first or second dedicated course when the treatment agent contained in tank 62A is something other than an auxiliary agent. Control unit 16 may also suggest the first or second dedicated course when the treatment agent contained in tank 62A is a detergent with a specific function, for example, an indoor drying detergent that suppresses the growth of bacteria compared to ordinary detergents.

[0117] Each of tanks 62A-62C may have a remaining amount detector that detects the remaining amount of treatment agent stored therein. If the remaining amount of treatment agent is equal to or less than a predetermined value, control unit 16 may omit suggesting a wash course that uses that treatment agent. In other words, if the remaining amount of auxiliary agent in tank 62A is equal to or less than a predetermined value, control unit 16 may omit suggesting the first dedicated course and / or the second dedicated course.

[0118] In the first embodiment, the controller 16 proposes the first or second dedicated course after determining whether the treatment agent in the tank 62A is a supplementary agent, but the present invention is not limited to this. The controller 16 may propose the first or second dedicated course at any timing.

[0119] For example, the control unit 16 may suggest the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course when the tank 62A is refilled with the processing agent, when the type of processing agent contained in the tank 62A is set, or when the settings are changed.

[0120] Furthermore, control unit 16 may suggest the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course only when the user is trying to change the washing course via operation display unit 17. Specifically, control unit 16 may suggest the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course only when it detects that a button for changing the washing course is being operated on operation display unit 17. Furthermore, if a washing course is not selected for a certain period of time while a screen for changing the washing course is displayed on operation display unit 17, control unit 16 may infer that the user is worried and suggest the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course.

[0121] In the first embodiment, the control unit 16 proposes both the first dedicated course and the second dedicated course, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 16 may propose only one of the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course. Furthermore, the control unit 16 may propose three or more dedicated courses.

[0122] The control unit 16 may change the washing course to be suggested depending on other settings of the washing machine 1 or information on the installation environment of the washing machine 1. For example, when the "water saving mode" of the washing machine 1 is ON, the control unit 16 may not suggest a washing course that uses more water. The control unit 16 may change the washing course to be suggested depending on the history of washing courses that have been run in the past. The control unit 16 may change the course to be suggested depending on information on the season and weather in the area where the washing machine 1 is installed. If the user is identifiable, the control unit 16 may change the course to be suggested depending on the user's identification information.

[0123] In the first embodiment, the example in which the control unit 16 makes a suggestion and then accepts a change in the washing course has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, if the acquired type of treatment agent is a supplementary agent, the control unit 16 may change the washing course to be executed from the standard course to the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course.

[0124] The user may change the settings of the control unit 16 so that the function of suggesting the dedicated courses is turned off in the control unit 16 and the suggestion of the first dedicated course and / or the second dedicated course is omitted.

[0125] (Embodiment 2) A laundry system 201 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be mainly described, and descriptions that overlap with the first embodiment will be omitted. In the second embodiment, the same or equivalent configurations as those in the first embodiment will be described with the same reference numerals.

[0126] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a laundry system 201 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0127] 11, laundry system 201 includes washing machine 202, terminal device 222, and processing device 212. In the second embodiment, washing machine 202 may be the same as washing machine 1 in the first embodiment unless otherwise specified.

[0128] Washing machine 202 has first communication unit 204. First communication unit 204 is capable of communicating with terminal device 222 via a network. First communication unit 204 includes a circuit that performs communication in accordance with a predetermined communication standard (e.g., LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark)).

[0129] Terminal device 222 is a device capable of communicating with washing machine 202 and processing device 212. Terminal device 222 functions as operation display unit 17 in the first embodiment. Terminal device 222 is, for example, a smartphone.

[0130] The processing device 212 includes a processing unit 213 and a second communication unit 214. The processing device 212 is a computer. The processing device 212 is, for example, a server or a cloud.

[0131] Processing unit 213 stores information about the treatment agent contained in tanks 62A to 62C of automatic dispensing unit 6 and operating conditions for the washing courses that can be executed by washing machine 202, in place of memory unit 16a in the first embodiment.

[0132] The second communication unit 214 is capable of communicating with the terminal device 222 via a network. The second communication unit 214 includes a circuit that performs communication in accordance with a predetermined communication standard (for example, LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark)).

[0133] The processing device 212 acquires the type of processing agent contained in the tank 62A by referring to the processing unit 213. If the automatic dispensing setting for the tank 62A is ON and the acquired type of processing agent is an auxiliary agent, the processing device 212 suggests the first dedicated course or the second dedicated course as the washing course to be executed. In the second embodiment, the processing device 212 causes the terminal device 222 to display a course suggestion display 80 via the second communication unit 214.

[0134] The user operates the program suggestion display 80 and inputs the washing program to be executed on the terminal device 222. In response to the user's input, the terminal device 222 acquires the operating conditions of the input washing program from the processing unit 213 and transmits them to the first communication unit 204. The washing machine 202 executes the washing program based on the operating conditions received by the first communication unit 204.

[0135] Terminal device 222 may be omitted, and washing machine 202 and processing device 212 may communicate directly. Also, processing device 212 may be omitted, and terminal device 222 may have processing unit 213 and second communication unit 214, and washing machine 202 and terminal device 222 may communicate directly.

[0136] The washing machine in the first aspect includes a storage tub for storing an object, a tank for storing a first treatment agent, an automatic dispensing device for supplying the first treatment agent stored in the tank to the storage tub, and a control unit for acquiring the type of the first treatment agent, and when the automatic dispensing setting for the first treatment agent is ON, the control unit suggests or sets a predetermined washing course to be performed depending on the acquired type of first treatment agent.

[0137] As a washing machine in the second aspect, in the washing machine in the first aspect, the control unit has a first course and a second course different from the first course that can be executed, accepts the setting of the first course as the washing course to be executed, and if the type of the acquired first treatment agent is an auxiliary agent other than a detergent or fabric softener, suggests or sets the second course as the washing course to be executed.

[0138] As a washing machine in a third aspect, in the washing machine in the second aspect, the control unit sets the first course as the washing course to be executed when the type of the acquired first treatment agent is a detergent.

[0139] In a fourth aspect, the washing machine is the washing machine of the second or third aspect, further comprising an operation unit that can be operated by a user, and the control unit sets the first course as the washing course to be executed in response to operation of the operation unit, and then suggests or sets the second course as the washing course to be executed.

[0140] As a washing machine in a fifth aspect, the washing machine in the second or third aspect further includes a power button for switching the power on / off, and the control unit sets the first course as the washing course to be executed in response to the power button being turned on.

[0141] In a sixth aspect, the washing machine in the fourth aspect further includes a display unit that displays information about the washing machine, and the control unit suggests or sets the second course as the washing course to be executed, and then causes the display unit to display a message confirming whether or not the second course can be executed.

[0142] As a washing machine in a seventh aspect, in the washing machine in the sixth aspect, the display unit is capable of displaying a course screen that displays some of the washing courses that the control unit is capable of executing, and the first course is displayed on the course screen and the second course is not displayed on the course screen.

[0143] As a washing machine in an eighth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the second to seventh aspects, it further comprises a memory unit that stores information on washing courses, and the second course is a washing course stored in the memory unit corresponding to the auxiliary agent.

[0144] A washing method in a ninth aspect includes acquiring the type of first treatment agent contained in the tank, and when the dispensing setting for the first treatment agent is ON, proposing or setting a predetermined course as the washing course to be executed depending on the acquired type of first treatment agent, and an automatic dispensing device supplying the first treatment agent to a storage tank containing an object in the predetermined course.

[0145] A washing system in a tenth aspect includes a washing machine having a storage tub for storing an object, a tank for storing a first treatment agent, and an automatic dispensing device for supplying the first treatment agent stored in the tank to the storage tub, and a processing device capable of communicating with the washing machine via a network and acquiring the type of the first treatment agent, and when the automatic dispensing setting for the first treatment agent is ON, the processing device suggests or sets a predetermined course as the washing course to be executed depending on the acquired type of first treatment agent.

[0146] Although the present disclosure has been fully described in connection with the preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications are to be understood as included within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims unless they depart therefrom. [Industrial Applicability]

[0147] The washing machine of the present disclosure can execute a washing course suitable for a specific treatment agent, and is therefore useful as a domestic washing machine, a commercial washing machine, or any type of washer-dryer (for example, a domestic drum washing machine or a top-loading washing machine). [Explanation of symbols]

[0148] 1 washing machine 2. Case 3 Outer tank 4 Drums 5 Drive unit 6 Automatic feeding unit 8 Connecting Channels 10. Water supply valve 11 Drain valve 15 Cloth amount detection unit 16 Control Unit 17 Operation display section 62A~62C Tank

Claims

1. a storage tank for storing an object; a tank containing a first treatment agent; an automatic supply device that supplies the first processing agent contained in the tank to the storage tank; a control unit that acquires the type of the first treatment agent, When the automatic dispensing setting for the first treatment agent is ON, the control unit suggests or sets a predetermined course as the washing course to be executed depending on the type of the first treatment agent obtained.

2. The control unit The apparatus has a first course and a second course different from the first course, and the first course is executable.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the washing machine accepts the setting of the first course as the washing course to be executed, and if the type of the acquired first treatment agent is an auxiliary agent other than a detergent or a fabric softener, suggests or sets the second course as the washing course to be executed.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit sets the first course as the washing course to be executed when the acquired type of the first treatment agent is a detergent.

4. Further comprising an operation unit operable by a user, The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the control unit sets the first course as the washing course to be executed in response to an operation of the operation unit, and then suggests or sets the second course as the washing course to be executed.

5. Further provided with a power button for switching the power on / off, The washing machine according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit sets the first course as a washing course to be executed in response to an ON operation of the power button.

6. Further provided is a display unit that displays information about the washing machine, The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein the control unit, after suggesting or setting the second course as the washing course to be executed, causes the display unit to display a message confirming whether or not the second course is to be executed.

7. the display unit is capable of displaying a course screen that displays a part of the washing courses that the control unit is capable of executing, the first course is displayed on the course screen, The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein the second course is not displayed on the course screen.

8. Further provided with a storage unit that stores information on washing courses, The washing machine according to claim 2 , wherein the second course is a washing course stored in the storage unit in association with the auxiliary agent.

9. Obtaining the type of the first treatment agent contained in the tank; If the setting for dispensing the first treatment agent is ON, suggesting or setting a predetermined course as a washing course to be executed according to the acquired type of the first treatment agent; an automatic supplying device supplies the first processing agent to a storage tank that stores the object along a predetermined course; Including, washing method.

10. a washing machine having a storage tub that stores an object, a tank that stores a first treatment agent, and an automatic supply device that supplies the first treatment agent stored in the tank to the storage tub; a processing device capable of communicating with the washing machine via a network and acquiring the type of the first treatment agent, When the automatic dispensing setting for the first treatment agent is ON, the treatment device suggests or sets a predetermined course as the washing course to be executed depending on the type of the first treatment agent obtained.

Images