Washing machine, washing method and washing system

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of suppressing components contained in a treatment agent from remaining on clothes.SOLUTION: When the first automatic setting is ON, supplying the liquid agent to the storage tank according to the type of the liquid agent in the first tank; A second automatic supply device configured to supply the liquid agent to the storage tank in accordance with a type of the liquid agent in the second tank, in a case where the liquid agent in the second tank is the auxiliary agent, the second automatic supply setting is ON, and the liquid agent in the first tank is the essential agent; When the first automatic setting is ON, the control unit executes the first washing operation, and when the second automatic setting is ON and the liquid agent in the first tank is not set as the essential agent, or when the second automatic setting is ON and the liquid agent in the first tank is the essential agent and the first automatic setting is OFF, the control unit executes the second washing operation in which the concentration of the treatment agent or the amount of the treatment agent component at the end of the rinsing process is lower than that in the first washing operation.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

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, there is a risk that components contained in the treatment agent may remain on laundry such as clothes. When an auxiliary agent is automatically added as a treatment agent, depending on the combination with the detergent, the remaining components of the treatment agent may damage the skin of the user wearing the clothes. Therefore, there is still room for improvement in terms of reducing damage to the user's skin.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to solve the above problem and to provide a washing machine that suppresses components contained in a treatment agent from remaining on clothes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A washing machine according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a storage tub for storing laundry, a first tank for storing a liquid agent, a second tank for storing a liquid agent, a first automatic dispensing device that supplies the liquid agent stored in the first tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the first tank when a first automatic dispensing setting is ON, a second automatic dispensing device that supplies the liquid agent stored in the second tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the second tank when a second automatic dispensing setting is ON, and a control unit that acquires the type of liquid agent, the first automatic dispensing setting, and the second automatic dispensing setting, and In this case, when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, the control unit executes the first washing operation, and when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON and the type of liquid in the first tank is not set to an essential agent, or when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF, the control unit executes the second washing operation in which the treatment agent concentration or amount of treatment agent components at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation.

[0008] A washing method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes acquiring the type of liquid agent contained in the first tank, acquiring the type of liquid agent contained in the second tank, acquiring a first automatic dispensing setting and a second automatic dispensing setting, and if the type of liquid agent in the second tank is an auxiliary agent, when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, performing a first washing operation and supplying the liquid agent contained in the first tank and the second tank to a storage tub; when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON and the type of liquid agent in the first tank is not set to an essential agent, or when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF, performing a second washing operation in which the treatment agent concentration or amount of treatment agent components at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation, and supplying the liquid agent contained in the second tank to the storage tub.

[0009] A laundry system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a washing machine having a storage tub for storing laundry, a first tank for storing a liquid agent, a second tank for storing a liquid agent, a first automatic dispensing device that supplies the liquid agent stored in the first tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the first tank when a first automatic dispensing setting is ON, and a second automatic dispensing device that supplies the liquid agent stored in the second tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the second tank when a second automatic dispensing setting is ON, and a processing device that can communicate with the washing machine via a network and acquires the type of liquid agent, the first automatic dispensing setting, and the second automatic dispensing setting. When the type of liquid in the second tank is an auxiliary agent, the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, the treatment device executes the first washing operation, and when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON and the type of liquid in the first tank is not set to an essential agent, or when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF, the treatment device executes the second washing operation in which the treatment agent concentration or amount of treatment agent components at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine can be provided that prevents components contained in a treatment agent from remaining on clothes. [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 5] Flowchart of washing machine operation [Figure 6] Table showing an overview of the first and second washing operations [Figure 7] Flowchart of the first washing operation [Figure 8]Flowchart of the second washing operation [Figure 9] Schematic front view of a washing machine performing a low-rinse-power rinse step [Figure 10] Schematic front view of a washing machine performing a high-rinse-power rinse cycle [Figure 11] Block 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] 1, washing machine 1 includes housing 2, outer tub 3, drum 4, drive unit 5 (FIG. 2), water supply valve 10, drain valve 11, water level sensor 12, circulation flow path 13, circulation pump 14, and laundry amount detection unit 15 (FIG. 2). Washing machine 1 further includes control unit 16, memory unit 16a, operation unit 17, and display unit 18.

[0016] Washing machine 1 further includes an automatic dispensing unit 6, a manual dispensing case 7, and a connecting flow path 8, and supplies a treatment agent to outer tub 3. The treatment agent is used when treating laundry such as clothes, towels, and sheets in 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 is a liquid and includes a detergent, a fabric softener, and a cleaning strengthening agent. The detergent is a treatment agent that removes ordinary stains by penetrating, wetting, emulsifying, solubilizing, dispersing, and the like. The fabric softener is a treatment agent that improves the feel of laundry. Unlike the detergent and fabric softener, the cleaning strengthening agent is a treatment agent that further enhances the basic performance of the detergent, such as cleaning.

[0023] In the first embodiment, an example in which the automatic dispensing unit 6 stores a cleaning strengthening agent will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of the cleaning strengthening agent, the automatic dispensing unit 6 may store another auxiliary agent having a function different from that of the detergent or fabric softener, such as a treatment agent that suppresses foaming (a treatment agent containing an antifoaming component). Here, the auxiliary agent is a treatment agent different from the detergent and fabric softener. In order to distinguish it from the auxiliary agent, in the first embodiment, the detergent and fabric softener may be referred to as essential agents. Note that the fabric softener may be classified as an auxiliary agent, and the auxiliary agent may be a treatment agent different from the detergent.

[0024] The cleaning enhancer is a treatment agent selected from a group including at least a surfactant, an alkaline agent, an enzyme, a bleaching agent, and a fluorescent whitening agent. When the components contained in the cleaning enhancer are combined with a specific type of detergent, they may damage the skin of a user of the washing machine 1 or cause deterioration of the laundry if they remain on the laundry. For example, if an alkaline agent is added as the cleaning enhancer and an alkaline detergent is added as the detergent, the amount of alkaline components in the wash water increases, making them more likely to remain on the laundry. If the alkaline components remain on the laundry, they may damage the skin of a user who wears the laundry.

[0025] The manual dispensing case 7 is a container into which the user manually dispenses one dose of liquid agent each time the washing machine 1 is operated. The manually dispensed liquid agent is supplied to the outer tub 3 in the dispensed amount.

[0026] For example, powder detergent is put into the manual dispenser case 7. The powder detergent is a powdered detergent.

[0027] The detergent, which is an essential ingredient, is dispensed in many washing cycles executed by the washing machine 1. Because the detergent is an essential ingredient, even if the detergent is not automatically dispensed by the automatic dispensing unit 6, it is assumed that the detergent is dispensed into the drum 4 by another method. If the detergent is not automatically dispensed, it is assumed that the detergent is manually dispensed.

[0028] Furthermore, considering that the user does not use the liquid detergent in the automatic dispensing unit 6 but instead dispenses another detergent, it is presumed that the other detergent is different from the liquid detergent. In the first embodiment, it is presumed that the other detergent is powder detergent. That is, when the liquid detergent is not automatically dispensed by the automatic dispensing unit 6 (when the automatic dispensing setting is not set to ON), it is presumed that powder detergent will be manually dispensed instead.

[0029] Powder detergents contain a larger amount of alkaline components or stronger alkaline components in their aqueous solutions than liquid detergents or detergents for delicates (i.e., neutral detergents). Therefore, when using powder detergents, the amount of alkaline components in the wash water tends to be higher. Therefore, adding both powder detergent and cleaning strengthener in the same wash cycle can increase the amount of alkaline components in the wash water. Therefore, in the present disclosure, when powder detergent and cleaning strengthener are added, a wash cycle is performed to reduce the concentration or amount of the treating agent components at the end of the rinsing cycle, thereby preventing alkaline components from remaining on the clothes. This reduces the risk of damage to the user's skin and deterioration of the laundry.

[0030] The cleaning strength agent may not be intended to be put into the manual dispenser case 7 because, in its undiluted form, it may have adverse effects on laundry and the user's skin.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] As shown in Figure 1, the water level sensor 12 has a sensor that detects the water level in the outer tub 3. Specifically, the water level sensor 12 is connected to the bottom of the outer tub 3 via an air hose 12a. When the water level in the outer tub 3 changes, water flows into the air hose 12a, and the pressure in the water level sensor 12 changes via the air hose 12a. The water level sensor 12 can detect the water level in the outer tub 3 by detecting the pressure.

[0035] The water level sensor 12 may detect the water level by detecting the amount of movement of a float or by using a capacitance method.

[0036] The circulation flow path 13 is provided inside the housing 2 and is connected to the outer tub 3. Specifically, both the suction port 13a and the discharge port 13b of the circulation flow path 13 are connected to the outer tub 3, and circulate the water inside the outer tub 3. The suction port 13a is connected to the lower part of the outer tub 3, and the discharge port 13b is connected to the upper part of the outer tub 3.

[0037] Circulation pump 14 is provided in circulation flow path 13 and has a pump that generates a water flow in circulation flow path 13. Circulation pump 14 generates a water flow in circulation flow path 13 from suction port 13a toward discharge port 13b.

[0038] 2, laundry amount detection unit 15 has a sensor that detects the amount of laundry accommodated in drum 4. Laundry amount detection unit 15 has, for example, a sensor that measures the weight of the laundry. Specifically, laundry amount detection unit 15 has a sensor that measures the voltage applied to the motor of drive unit 5 and a control circuit that converts the measured voltage into torque applied to drive unit 5 when drive unit 5 rotates and calculates the weight of the laundry based on the torque. Alternatively, laundry amount detection unit 15 may be included in control unit 16.

[0039] 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 display unit 18. Control unit 16 controls the components of washing machine 1, for example, in response to user operations received by operation unit 17. Control unit 16 includes a general-purpose processor such as a CPU, MPU, FPGA, DSP, or ASIC that executes programs to realize predetermined functions. Control unit 16 can realize various controls of washing machine 1 by calling and executing control programs stored in storage unit 16a. Control unit 16 is not limited to a device that realizes predetermined functions through cooperation between hardware and software, and may be a hardware circuit designed specifically to realize predetermined functions.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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. Note that the "OFF" setting may be collectively referred to as the "OFF" setting, adding the "not set" setting.

[0044] When the automatic dispensing setting is "less," the amount of treatment agent dispensed is less than when it is "standard," and when the automatic dispensing setting is "more," the amount of treatment agent dispensed is more than when it is "standard." Note that there may be a dispensing amount setting that dispenses more than "more" or less than "less."

[0045] 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.

[0046] The operation unit 17 is configured to receive information input by the user. In the first embodiment, the operation unit 17 has a plurality of buttons that can be pressed.

[0047] Control unit 16 can set information received by operation unit 17. Here, "setting" means that control unit 16 stores information in storage unit 16a. In the first embodiment, control unit 16 immediately sets the information received by operation unit 17, but may also set the information in response to a specific operation.

[0048] Display unit 18 is configured to display to the user information relating to washing machine 1. In the first embodiment, display unit 18 has an LCD display.

[0049] Regarding the type of treatment agent, the display unit 18 displays the names of multiple treatment agent types, and the operation unit 17 accepts the user's selection. Specifically, the display unit 18 may display all the names of the treatment agent types simultaneously, or may switch between them one by one. For example, the display unit 18 may simultaneously display "neutral detergent" and "cleaning strengthener" and blink the name of the selected type, or may switch between them one by one.

[0050] Regarding the automatic dispensing setting, the display unit 18 displays "Standard," "Low," "High," or "OFF," and the operation unit 17 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."

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] The tanks 62A to 62C are each a container for storing a liquid treatment 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.

[0055] Tank 62C stores liquid detergent, tank 62B stores fabric softener, and tank 62A stores cleaning strength agent.

[0056] The types of treatment agents contained in tanks 62B and 62C may be fixed to fabric softener and detergent, respectively. Therefore, for tanks 62B and 62C, the user does not need to input the types of treatment agents into operation unit 17. On the other hand, for tank 62A, the user inputs the type of cleaning strengthening agent into operation unit 17. Note that tank 62A may contain detergent, fabric softener, neutral detergent, etc., and in this case, the user may input the type of treatment agent into operation unit 17.

[0057] Tanks 62A to 62C are detachable from case 61 so that the processing agent can be replenished when the remaining amount becomes low.

[0058] 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 supply it to 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.

[0059] The pump mechanisms 63A, 63B, and 63C of this embodiment each have a piston pump. The pump mechanisms 63A, 63B, and 63C are not limited to those each having a piston pump, and may instead have, for example, an on-off valve mechanism that discharges liquid by gravity, a gear pump, or the like. 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.

[0060] 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 supplied 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.

[0061] Next, the flow of water and processing agent in the automatic dispensing unit 6 will be described.

[0062] 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.

[0063] A portion of the water supplied from water supply valve 10 flows from case 61 into treatment agent discharge flow path 64. In the case of automatic dispensing, the treatment agent supplied to treatment agent discharge flow path 64 from pump mechanisms 63A to 63C merges with the water in treatment agent discharge flow path 64. The treatment agent and water flow along the slope of treatment agent discharge flow path 64, enter case 61, and are then supplied to outer tank 3 via connecting flow path 8.

[0064] In the case of manual addition, water supplied from the water supply valve 10 flows into the manual addition case 7 and falls toward the bottom of the case 61 together with the treatment agent. Then, the water is supplied to the outer tank 3 via the connecting flow path 8.

[0065] That is, the treatment agent is supplied to the outer tank 3 by the flow of water that occurs when water is supplied.

[0066] [Operation] An example of the operation of washing machine 1 having the above configuration will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart of the operation of washing machine 1. Fig. 6 is a table outlining the first and second washing operations. In the following description, as described above, tank 62C contains liquid detergent, tank 62B contains fabric softener, and tank 62A contains alkaline agent.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 16 determines the washing course to be executed by the washing machine 1 and executes the determined washing course through the following steps.

[0068] When the user presses the power button of the washing machine 1 to turn the power on, the operation starts (START).

[0069] Next, the control unit 16 acquires the types of processing agents contained in the tanks 62A and 62C and the automatic dispensing settings (S10). Specifically, the control unit 16 references the memory unit 16a to acquire the names of the types of processing agents contained in the tanks 62A and 62C and the automatic dispensing settings.

[0070] The user may have previously input the type of treatment agent contained in tank 62A and tank 62C and the automatic dispensing setting through operation unit 17, for example, when the washing machine 1 was previously operated, or may have input the information after turning on the power.

[0071] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the type of processing agent acquired for the tank 62A is a strengthened cleaning agent (S11).

[0072] If the treatment agent is a strengthened cleaning agent (Yes in S11), the control unit 16 determines whether the automatic dispensing setting for the treatment agent contained in the tank 62A (hereinafter, the third automatic dispensing setting) is ON (S12). Specifically, the control unit 16 refers to the memory unit 16a and determines whether the third automatic dispensing setting is "standard," "less," or "more."

[0073] If the treatment agent is not a cleaning strength agent (No in S11), the control unit 16 determines the content of the washing course to be executed by the washing machine 1 (hereinafter, washing operation) to be the first washing operation (S41). Therefore, if the cleaning strength agent is not stored in the automatic dispensing unit 6, the control unit 16 executes the first washing operation. In the first embodiment, the control unit 16 changes the content of the washing course while maintaining the washing course to be executed (i.e., without changing the name of the washing course). Note that the control unit 16 may reduce the number of rinsing steps from two to one compared to the first washing operation.

[0074] If the third automatic dispensing setting is ON (Yes in S12), the control unit 16 determines whether the type of treatment agent acquired for the tank 62C is a detergent (S13).

[0075] If the third automatic dispensing setting is not ON (i.e., "OFF" or "not set") (No in S12), the control unit 16 determines the content of the washing course to be executed by the washing machine 1 as the first washing operation (S41). Therefore, if the cleaning strength agent is not automatically dispensed, the control unit 16 executes the first washing operation. Note that if the third automatic dispensing setting is "not set", the control unit 16 may reduce the number of rinsing steps from two to one compared to the first washing operation.

[0076] If the treatment agent is a detergent (Yes in S13), the control unit 16 determines whether the automatic dispense setting for the detergent contained in the tank 62C (hereinafter, the first automatic dispense setting) is ON (S14). Specifically, the control unit 16 refers to the memory unit 16a and determines whether the first automatic dispense setting is "standard," "less," or "more."

[0077] If the treatment agent is not a detergent (No in S13), the control unit 16 determines the content of the washing course to be executed by the washing machine 1 to be the second washing operation (S42). If the tank 62C does not contain liquid detergent, it is assumed that powder detergent will be manually added. As shown in FIG. 6, if the cleaning strengthening agent is automatically added and the powder detergent is manually added, the control unit 16 executes the second washing operation.

[0078] If the first automatic dispense setting is ON (Yes in S14), the control unit 16 determines the content of the washing course to be executed by the washing machine 1 as the first washing operation (S41). As shown in Fig. 6, when the cleaning strength agent and liquid detergent are automatically dispensed, the control unit 16 executes the first washing operation.

[0079] If the third automatic loading setting is not ON and the first automatic loading setting is ON, a washing course may be run that further reduces the rinse step from two to one in addition to the normal washing course. On the other hand, if the third automatic loading setting is not ON and the first automatic loading setting is OFF, a normal washing course may be run.

[0080] If the first automatic dispensing setting is not ON (i.e., "OFF" or "Not set") (No in S14), the control unit 16 determines the content of the washing course to be executed by the washing machine 1 as the second washing operation (S42). If the first automatic dispensing setting is not ON and liquid detergent is not automatically dispensed, it is assumed that powder detergent will be manually dispensed. As shown in FIG. 6, if the cleaning strength agent is automatically dispensed and powder detergent is manually dispensed, the control unit 16 executes the second washing operation.

[0081] As shown in Figure 6, the first and second washing operations each perform a washing step, a first rinse step, a second rinse step, and a spin cycle in that order, with the difference being the operation in the first rinse step. In the second washing operation, a combination of treatment agents (e.g., a cleaning power booster and a powder detergent) is added that causes the wash water to be highly alkaline, so the rinsing power (which may also be referred to as rinsing performance) in the first rinse step is enhanced compared to the first washing operation. This operation more reliably prevents alkaline components from the cleaning power booster and powder detergent from remaining on the laundry.

[0082] (Comparison between the first and second wash cycles) Next, the first and second washing operations will be described in more detail with reference to Figs. 7 to 10. Fig. 7 is a flowchart of the first washing operation. Fig. 8 is a flowchart of the second washing operation. Fig. 9 is a schematic front view of the washing machine 1 performing a rinsing step with low rinsing power. Fig. 10 is a schematic front view of the washing machine 1 performing a rinsing step with high rinsing power.

[0083] As described above, the first washing operation is performed when the cleaning strength agent and liquid detergent are added, and the second washing operation is performed when the cleaning strength agent and powder detergent are added.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 7, the first washing operation includes a washing step (S41), a first rinsing step (S51-S53), a second rinsing step (S54-S56), and a spin-drying step (S61). As shown in FIG. 8, the second washing operation includes a washing step (S71), a third rinsing step (S81-S83), a fourth rinsing step (S84-S86), and a spin-drying step (S91). Unless otherwise specified, the operations of the washing machine 1 in the washing and spin-drying steps may be the same between the first and second washing operations. Note that the spin-drying step may be performed after the washing step, and the first rinsing step may start from the spin-drying step. Alternatively, the spin-drying step may be performed after the first rinsing step, and the second rinsing step may start from the spin-drying step.

[0085] First, the first washing operation will be described. In the washing step, control unit 16 controls pump mechanisms 63A, 63C and water supply valve 10 to supply the cleaning strengthening agent and detergent contained in tanks 62A, 62C to drum 4. Subsequently, in the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step, control unit 16 controls water supply valve 10, drive unit 5, and circulation pump 14 to rinse the laundry. Subsequently, in the spin-drying step, control unit 16 controls drain valve 11 and drive unit 5 to spin-dry the laundry.

[0086] Here, the first rinse step of the first washing operation will be described in detail. The first rinse step includes a water supply step (S51), a spinning step (S52), and a draining step (S53).

[0087] In the water supply step (S51) of the first rinsing process, control unit 16 turns on drive unit 5 and opens water supply valve 10 to supply water to drum 4 while drum 4 is rotating in one direction.

[0088] In the rotation step (S52) of the first rinsing process, control unit 16 turns on drive unit 5 to rotate drum 4 in one direction, and then turns on circulation pump 14 to circulate the water in drum 4 within circulation flow path 13. In the first embodiment, control unit 16 keeps circulation pump 14 on continuously.

[0089] 9, the rotation step (S52) is performed in a state in which laundry is stuck to the inner circumferential surface of the drum 4 due to the rotation of the drum 4. Therefore, the laundry stuck to the inner circumferential surface is rinsed by passing the circulating water flow generated by the circulation pump 14 through the laundry.

[0090] In the draining step (S53) of the first rinsing process, the control unit 16 turns on the drive unit 5 and opens the drain valve 11 to drain water from the drum 4 while the drum 4 is rotating in one direction.

[0091] The rinsing method employed in the first rinsing step of the first washing operation may be referred to as "low rinsing power rinsing" or "circulation spin rinsing."

[0092] Next, the second washing operation will be described. In the washing step, the control unit 16 controls the pump mechanism 63A and the water supply valve 10 to supply the cleaning strengthening agent contained in the tank 62A and the powder detergent contained in the manual dispenser case 7 to the drum 4. In the third and fourth rinsing steps, the control unit 16 controls the water supply valve 10, the drive unit 5, and the circulation pump 14 to rinse the laundry. In the spin-drying step, the control unit 16 controls the drain valve 11 and the drive unit 5 to spin-dry the laundry.

[0093] Here, the third rinse step of the second washing operation will be described in detail. The third rinse step of the second washing operation has a higher rinsing power than the first rinse step of the first washing operation. The third rinse step has a water supply step (S81), a spinning step (S82), and a draining step (S83). Note that the spin-drying step may be performed after the washing step, and the third rinse step may start from the spin-drying step. Alternatively, the spin-drying step may be performed after the third rinse step, and the fourth rinse step may start from the spin-drying step.

[0094] In the water supply step (S81) of the third rinsing process, control unit 16 turns on drive unit 5 and opens water supply valve 10 to supply water to drum 4 while drum 4 is agitating. In this specification, "agitation" refers to the periodic rotation of drum 4, and may also refer to the rotation of drum 4 before it makes one full rotation. In the water supply step, drum 4 may be rotated in one direction to the extent that laundry does not stick to the inner circumferential surface of drum 4.

[0095] Control unit 16 controls water supply valve 10 so that the amount of water supplied in the water supply step (S81) of the third rinsing process is greater than the amount of water supplied in the water supply step (S51) of the first rinsing process. Specifically, control unit 16 increases the amount of water supplied by making the open time of water supply valve 10 longer in the water supply step (S81) of the third rinsing process than in the water supply step (S51) of the first rinsing process. For example, when 12 kg of laundry is stored in drum 4, the amount of water supplied in the water supply step (S81) of the third rinsing process is 10 L higher than the amount of water supplied in the water supply step (S51) of the first rinsing process.

[0096] In the rotation step (S82) of the third rinsing process, the control unit 16 turns on the drive unit 5 and, while the drum 4 is agitating, repeatedly switches the circulation pump 14 on and off to intermittently circulate the water in the drum 4 within the circulation flow path 13.

[0097] As shown in Figure 10, in the rotation step (S82), the laundry is not attached to the inner circumferential surface of the drum 4, so it is lifted as the drum 4 rotates and falls to the bottom of the drum 4. In other words, rinsing is performed by hitting the laundry against the water surface. Therefore, the laundry is immersed in water for a longer period of time than in the rotation step (S52) of the first rinse process, and the treatment agent can be more reliably rinsed off the laundry.

[0098] The rotation speed of the drum 4 in the rotation step (S82) of the third rinsing process is lower than the rotation speed of the drum 4 in the rotation step (S52) of the first rinsing process. The rotation speed of the drum 4 in each step (S81 to S83) of the third rinsing process may be lower than the rotation speed of the drum 4 in each step (S51 to S53) of the first rinsing process.

[0099] In the draining step (S83) of the third rinsing process, the control unit 16 turns on the drive unit 5 to agitate the drum 4, and opens the drain valve 11 to drain the water from the drum 4.

[0100] The operation time of the third rinsing step is longer than the operation time of the first rinsing step. The operation time of each step in the third rinsing step may be longer than that of each step in the first rinsing step.

[0101] The rinsing method used in the third rinse step may be called "fill-in rinse." This "fill-in rinse" operation can more reliably rinse away the components of the treatment agent adhering to the laundry.

[0102] In the first embodiment, the second rinse step of the first washing operation and the fourth rinse step of the second washing operation share the same rinsing method as the third rinse step of the second washing operation. However, as long as the second rinse step of the first washing operation and the fourth rinse step of the second washing operation share the same rinsing method, they may include a step different from the third rinse step.

[0103] [effect] The washing machine 1 according to the first embodiment can achieve the following effects.

[0104] As described above, washing machine 1 of embodiment 1 includes drum 4 (storage tank) for storing laundry, tank 62C (first tank) for storing a liquid agent, and tank 62A (second tank) for storing a liquid agent. Washing machine 1 includes pump mechanism 63C (first automatic dispensing device) that discharges detergent stored in tank 62C toward drum 4 according to the type of liquid agent in tank 62C when the first automatic dispensing setting is ON. Washing machine 1 includes pump mechanism 63A (second automatic dispensing device) that discharges detergent stored in tank 62A toward drum 4 according to the type of liquid agent in tank 62A when the third automatic dispensing setting (second automatic dispensing setting) is ON. Washing machine 1 includes control unit 16 that acquires the type of liquid agent, the first automatic dispensing setting, and the third automatic dispensing setting. If the type of liquid in tank 62A is an auxiliary liquid, the third automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in tank 62C is an essential liquid, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, the control unit 16 executes the first washing operation. If the type of liquid in tank 62A is an auxiliary liquid, the third automatic dispensing setting is ON, and the type of liquid in tank 62C is not set to an essential liquid, or the third automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in tank 62C is an essential liquid, and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF, the control unit 16 executes the second washing operation in which the treatment agent concentration or amount of treatment agent components at the end of the rinsing step is lower than in the first washing operation.

[0105] With this configuration, when a cleaning strengthener is automatically dispensed, the control unit 16 can determine whether the wash course is the first wash operation or the second wash operation depending on whether the automatic detergent dispenser is ON (i.e., whether powder detergent is manually dispensed). Therefore, even if both a cleaning strengthener and a powder detergent are dispensed and, for example, the amount of alkali is higher than expected by the manufacturer, it is possible to prevent components of the treatment agent from remaining on the laundry and reduce the risk of damage to the skin of the user who wears the laundry.

[0106] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the first washing operation and the second washing operation each include a washing step, a first rinsing step (or a third rinsing step), a second rinsing step (or a fourth rinsing step), and a spin-drying step. The third rinsing step of the second washing operation has a stronger rinsing power than the first rinsing step of the first washing operation.

[0107] This configuration improves the rinsing power of the second wash cycle, thereby reducing the amount of powder detergent and cleaning agent remaining on the laundry. Furthermore, by increasing the rinsing power in the first rinse cycle, the time the powder detergent and cleaning agent remain on the laundry can be shortened compared to when the rinsing power is increased in the second rinse cycle. This reduces the deterioration of the laundry.

[0108] Washing machine 1 of embodiment 1 further includes water supply valve 10 that supplies water to drum 4. Control unit 16 controls water supply valve 10 so that the amount of water supplied in the third rinse step of the second washing operation is greater than the amount of water supplied in the first rinse step of the first washing operation.

[0109] With this configuration, the treatment agent is highly diluted in the third rinsing step, which makes it easy to reduce the concentration of components remaining in the laundry and improve the rinsing power in the third rinsing step.

[0110] Washing machine 1 of embodiment 1 further includes drive unit 5 that rotates drum 4. Control unit 16 controls drive unit 5 so that the rotation of drive unit 5 is reversed in the third rinse step of the second washing operation and so that the rotation of drive unit 5 is unidirectional in the first rinse step of the first washing operation.

[0111] With this configuration, it is easy to lengthen the time during the third rinsing step during which the laundry is immersed in water without sticking to drum 4, and it is easy to improve the rinsing power during the third rinsing step.

[0112] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the operation time of the third rinsing step in the second washing operation is longer than the operation time of the first rinsing step in the first washing operation.

[0113] With this configuration, it is easy to further lengthen the time that the laundry is immersed in water in the third rinsing step, and it is easy to improve the rinsing power in the third rinsing step.

[0114] The washing machine 1 of the first embodiment further includes a manual dispenser case 7 capable of storing powder detergent and supplying the powder detergent to the storage tub.

[0115] With this configuration, even if the detergent is not automatically dispensed, the powder detergent can be manually dispensed.

[0116] In the washing machine 1 of the first embodiment, the cleaning strengthening agent (auxiliary agent) is an alkaline agent.

[0117] With this configuration, the washing course is determined depending on whether or not detergent is automatically dispensed (i.e., whether or not alkaline powder detergent is manually dispensed), thereby preventing residual treatment agent components from damaging the user's skin.

[0118] The washing method of the first embodiment includes acquiring the type of liquid agent contained in tank 62C, acquiring the type of liquid agent contained in tank 62A, and acquiring a first automatic dispensing setting and a second automatic dispensing setting. The washing method includes performing a first washing operation when the type of liquid agent in tank 62A is an auxiliary agent, when the third automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid agent in tank 62C is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON. The washing method includes performing a second washing operation in which the treatment agent concentration or amount of treatment agent components at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation when the type of liquid agent in tank 62A is an auxiliary agent, when the third automatic dispensing setting is ON, and the type of liquid agent in tank 62C is not set to an essential agent, or when the third automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid agent in tank 62C is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF.

[0119] With this configuration, when a cleaning strengthening agent is automatically dispensed, the first or second washing operation can be performed as the washing method depending on whether the automatic detergent dispenser is ON (i.e., whether powder detergent is manually dispensed). Therefore, even if both a cleaning strengthening agent and a powder detergent are dispensed and, for example, the amount of alkali is higher than expected by the manufacturer, it is possible to prevent components of the treatment agent from remaining on the laundry and reduce the risk of damage to the skin of the user wearing the laundry.

[0120] The present disclosure is not limited to the first embodiment, but can be embodied in various other forms.

[0121] In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the automatic feeding unit 6 has three tanks 62A to 62C, but the automatic feeding unit 6 may have any number of tanks, such as two or four or more.

[0122] 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.

[0123] In the first embodiment, an example in which operation unit 17 and display unit 18 are configured separately has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. Washing machine 1 may have an operation display unit that is configured as an integrated unit. The operation display unit may be, for example, a touch panel that accepts operations by the user.

[0124] In the first embodiment, a liquid detergent is set as the treatment agent contained in the tank 62C, but this is not limiting. For example, a fabric softener may be set as the treatment agent contained in the tank 62C. In this case, if it is considered that the user does not put liquid detergent into the automatic dispensing unit 6 but instead puts another detergent, it is estimated that the other detergent is a detergent different from the liquid detergent.

[0125] 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 the liquid property of the treatment agent from the detection unit in real time or at a predetermined timing.

[0126] In the first embodiment, the water supply amount, rotation speed, and operating time in the first rinsing step of the first washing operation are different from those in the second washing operation, but this is not limiting. Controller 16 may increase the number of rinsing steps in the second washing operation compared to the first washing operation. Furthermore, if washing machine 1 has a heater for heating the water in drum 4, controller 16 may turn on the heater to heat the water in drum 4 during the third rinsing step of the second washing operation.

[0127] In the first embodiment, an example in which the washing process and the spin-drying process are common between the first and second washing operations has been described, but this is not limiting. For example, the control unit 16 may control the water supply valve 10 so that the amount of water supplied in the washing process of the second washing operation is greater than the amount of water supplied in the washing process of the first washing operation. Furthermore, the control unit 16 may control the pump mechanism 63A so that the amount of treatment agent (cleaning strengthening agent) automatically dispensed in the washing process of the second washing operation is less than that in the washing process of the first washing operation, or may execute an additional water supply step before the automatic dispensing of the cleaning strengthening agent.

[0128] Furthermore, the control unit 16 may extend the time of the spin-drying step in the second washing operation compared to the first washing operation. This configuration can increase the dilution level of the treatment agent components attached to the laundry.

[0129] (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.

[0130] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a laundry system 201 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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)).

[0133] Terminal device 222 is a device capable of communicating with washing machine 202 and processing device 212. Terminal device 222 functions as operation unit 17 in the first embodiment. Terminal device 222 is, for example, a smartphone.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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)).

[0137] The processing device 212 refers to the processing unit 213 and acquires the type of processing agent contained in the tank 62A. The processing device 212 corresponds to the control unit 16 of the first embodiment, and when the automatic dispensing of the cleaning strengthening agent is ON, determines the content of the washing course to be the first washing operation or the second washing operation depending on whether the detergent is automatically dispensed or not (i.e., whether the powder detergent is manually dispensed). In the second embodiment, the processing device 212 may display the content of the determined washing course on the terminal device 222 via the second communication unit 214.

[0138] Terminal device 222 acquires the operation conditions of the determined washing course from processing unit 213 and transmits them to first communication unit 204. Washing machine 202 executes the washing course based on the operation conditions received by first communication unit 204.

[0139] Terminal device 222 may be omitted, and washing machine 202 and processing device 212 may communicate directly with each other. The processing device may be omitted, and washing machine and terminal device may communicate directly with each other.

[0140] A washing machine in a first aspect includes a storage tub for storing laundry, a first tank for storing a liquid agent, a second tank for storing a liquid agent, a first automatic dosing device for supplying the liquid agent stored in the first tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the first tank when a first automatic dosing setting is ON, a second automatic dosing device for supplying the liquid agent stored in the second tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the second tank when a second automatic dosing setting is ON, and a control unit for acquiring the type of liquid agent, the first automatic dosing setting, and the second automatic dosing setting, and In this case, when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, the control unit executes the first washing operation, and when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON and the type of liquid in the first tank is not set to an essential agent, or when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF, the control unit executes the second washing operation in which the treatment agent concentration or amount of treatment agent components at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation.

[0141] In the washing machine of the second aspect, in the washing machine of the first aspect, the second washing operation includes one operating operation selected from a group including at least an operating operation with a greater number of rinsing cycles than the first washing operation, an operating operation with a higher rotation speed of the storage tub in the rinsing cycle, an operating operation with a greater amount of water supplied in the rinsing cycle, an operating operation with a higher water temperature in the storage tub in the rinsing cycle, an operating operation with a greater amount of water supplied in the washing cycle, an operating operation with a smaller amount of automatic treatment agent added, and an operating operation with a greater number of water supplies in the washing cycle.

[0142] As a washing machine in the third aspect, in the washing machine in the first or second aspect, the first washing operation and the second washing operation each include a washing step, a first rinsing step, a second rinsing step, and a spin-drying step, and the first rinsing step of the second washing operation has a stronger rinsing power than the first rinsing step of the first washing operation.

[0143] In a fourth aspect, the washing machine is the same as in the third aspect, but further including a water supply valve for supplying water to the storage tub, and the control unit controls the water supply valve so that the amount of water supplied in the first rinse step of the second washing operation is greater than the amount of water supplied in the first rinse step of the first washing operation.

[0144] In a fifth aspect, the washing machine is the washing machine of the third or fourth aspect, further comprising a drive unit that rotates the storage tub, and the control unit controls the drive unit so that the rotation of the drive unit is reversed during the first rinse step of the second washing operation and so that the rotation of the drive unit is unidirectional during the first rinse step of the first washing operation.

[0145] In a sixth aspect of the washing machine, in the washing machine of any one of the third to fifth aspects, the operating time of the first rinse step of the second washing operation is longer than the operating time of the first rinse step of the first washing operation.

[0146] A washing machine according to a seventh aspect is the washing machine according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, further comprising a manual dispenser case capable of storing powder detergent and for supplying the powder detergent to the storage tub.

[0147] As a washing machine in an eighth aspect, in the washing machine in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the auxiliary agent is one treatment agent selected from the group including at least a surfactant, an alkaline agent, an enzyme, a bleaching agent, and a fluorescent whitening agent.

[0148] In a ninth aspect, the washing machine is the washing machine of the eighth aspect, wherein the auxiliary agent is an alkaline agent.

[0149] A washing method in a tenth aspect includes acquiring the type of liquid agent contained in the first tank, acquiring the type of liquid agent contained in the second tank, acquiring a first automatic dispensing setting and a second automatic dispensing setting, and if the type of liquid agent in the second tank is an auxiliary agent, when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, performing a first washing operation and supplying the liquid agent contained in the first tank and the second tank to a storage tub, and when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON and the type of liquid agent in the first tank is not set to an essential agent, or when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF, performing a second washing operation in which the treatment agent concentration or amount of treatment agent components at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation, and supplying the liquid agent contained in the second tank to the storage tub.

[0150] A washing system in an eleventh aspect includes a washing machine having a storage tub for storing laundry, a first tank for storing a liquid agent, a second tank for storing a liquid agent, a first automatic dispensing device that supplies the liquid agent stored in the first tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the first tank when a first automatic dispensing setting is ON, and a second automatic dispensing device that supplies the liquid agent stored in the second tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the second tank when a second automatic dispensing setting is ON, and a processing device that can communicate with the washing machine via a network and acquires the type of liquid agent, the first automatic dispensing setting, and the second automatic dispensing setting. When the type of liquid in the second tank is an auxiliary agent, the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, the treatment device executes the first washing operation; when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON and the type of liquid in the first tank is not set to an essential agent, or when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF, the treatment device executes the second washing operation in which the concentration of the treatment agent or the amount of treatment agent components at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation.

[0151] 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]

[0152] The washing machine of the present disclosure can perform a washing operation 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 (e.g., a domestic drum washing machine or a vertical washing machine). [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 1 washing machine 2. Case 3 Outer tank 4 Drums 5 Drive unit 6 Automatic feeding unit 7 Manual Input Case 8 Connecting Channels 10. Water supply valve 11 Drain valve 16 Control Unit 17 Control section 18 Display 62A~62C Tank

Claims

1. a storage tub for storing laundry; a first tank containing a liquid agent; a second tank containing a liquid agent; a first automatic dispensing device that supplies the liquid agent contained in the first tank to the storage tank according to the type of the liquid agent in the first tank when a first automatic dispensing setting is ON; a second automatic dispensing device that supplies the liquid agent contained in the second tank to the storage tank according to the type of the liquid agent in the second tank when a second automatic dispensing setting is ON; a control unit that acquires the type of liquid, the first automatic dispensing setting, and the second automatic dispensing setting; When the type of the liquid in the second tank is an auxiliary agent, When the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of the liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, the control unit executes a first washing operation, When the second automatic dispensing setting is ON and the type of liquid agent in the first tank is not set to an essential agent, or when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON and the type of liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF, the control unit executes a second washing operation in which the concentration of the treatment agent or the amount of the treatment agent component at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation.

2. 2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the second washing operation includes one operation selected from a group including at least an operation having a greater number of rinsing cycles than the first washing operation, an operation having a higher rotation speed of the storage tub in the rinsing cycle, an operation having a greater amount of water supplied in the rinsing cycle, an operation having a higher water temperature in the storage tub in the rinsing cycle, an operation having a greater amount of water supplied in the washing cycle, an operation having a smaller amount of treatment agent supplied to the storage tub, and an operation having a greater number of water supplies in the washing cycle.

3. The first washing operation and the second washing operation each include a washing step, a first rinsing step, a second rinsing step, and a spin-drying step, The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the first rinse step of the second washing operation has a higher rinsing power than the first rinse step of the first washing operation.

4. Further provided is a water supply valve for supplying water to the storage tank, The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein the control unit controls the water supply valve so that an amount of water supplied in the first rinsing step of the second washing operation is greater than an amount of water supplied in the first rinsing step of the first washing operation.

5. Further, a drive unit that rotates the storage tank is provided, The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein the control unit controls the drive unit so that rotation of the drive unit in the first rinsing step of the second washing operation is reversed and rotation of the drive unit in the first rinsing step of the first washing operation is unidirectional.

6. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein an operating time of the first rinsing step of the second washing operation is longer than an operating time of the first rinsing step of the first washing operation.

7. The washing machine according to claim 1 , further comprising a manual dispenser case capable of storing powder detergent and for supplying the powder detergent to the storage tub.

8. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary agent is one treatment agent selected from the group including at least a surfactant, an alkaline agent, an enzyme, a bleaching agent, and a fluorescent whitening agent.

9. The washing machine according to claim 8, wherein the auxiliary agent is an alkaline agent.

10. Acquiring the type of the liquid agent contained in the first tank; Acquiring the type of the liquid agent contained in the second tank; Obtaining a first automatic dosing setting and a second automatic dosing setting; When the type of the liquid in the second tank is an auxiliary agent, When the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of the liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, a first washing operation is performed, and the liquid agent contained in the first tank and the second tank is supplied to a storage tub; a second washing operation in which the concentration of the treatment agent or the amount of the treatment agent component at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation, and the liquid agent contained in the second tank is supplied to the storage tub when the second automatic supply setting is ON and the type of liquid agent in the first tank is not set to an essential agent, or when the second automatic supply setting is ON, the type of liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic supply setting is OFF.

11. a washing machine having a storage tub for storing laundry, a first tank for storing a liquid agent, a second tank for storing a liquid agent, a first automatic dosing device that supplies the liquid agent stored in the first tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the first tank when a first automatic dosing setting is ON, and a second automatic dosing device that supplies the liquid agent stored in the second tank to the storage tub according to the type of liquid agent in the second tank when a second automatic dosing setting is ON; a processing device capable of communicating with the washing machine via a network and acquiring the type of liquid, the first automatic dispensing setting, and the second automatic dispensing setting; When the type of the liquid in the second tank is an auxiliary agent, When the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of the liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is ON, the treatment device executes a first washing operation, When the second automatic dispensing setting is ON and the type of liquid agent in the first tank is not set to an essential agent, or when the second automatic dispensing setting is ON, the type of liquid agent in the first tank is an essential agent, and the first automatic dispensing setting is OFF, the treatment device executes a second washing operation in which the treatment agent concentration or amount of treatment agent components at the end of the rinsing step is lower than that of the first washing operation.

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