Dishwasher, washing method, and control program

Abstract

To improve the cleaning efficiency of dishwashers. [Solution] The dishwasher 10 comprises a washing tank 12 in which items to be washed, such as dishes 13, a water supply valve 1 for supplying water to the washing tank 12, a washing and draining pump 2 for draining water from the washing tank 12, a detergent pump 7 for supplying detergent to the washing tank 12, a dish quantity detection unit 52 for detecting the amount of items to be washed contained in the washing tank 12, and a control unit 50 that controls the water supply valve 1, the washing and draining pump 2, and the detergent pump 7 to perform the process of washing the items to be washed. The control unit 50 obtains the amount of items to be washed from the dish quantity detection unit 52 and supplies an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of items to be washed from the detergent pump 7 to the washing tank 12 to wash the items to be washed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher, a cleaning method, and a control program for controlling the dishwasher.

Background Art

[0002] In a dishwasher, a technique has been proposed in which the turbidity of washing water is detected by an optical sensor and the operation is controlled based on the detection result (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for controlling the number of rinsing steps based on the turbidity of washing water in the washing step and the difference between the turbidity of washing water in the washing step and the turbidity of washing water in the first rinsing step.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004] [[ID=二十五]] [[ID=二十六]] [[ID=二十七]]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] [[ID=三十八]] [[ID=三十九]]The inventors of the present invention have recognized that by improving such a technique, it is an object to further enhance the cleaning efficiency in a dishwasher. [[ID=四十]] [[ID=四十一]]

[0006] [[ID=四十二]] [[ID=四十三]]The present disclosure provides a technique for improving the cleaning efficiency of a dishwasher. [[ID=四十四]] [[ID=四十五]]

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] [[ID=四十九]] The dishwasher in this disclosure comprises a washing tank in which items to be washed are contained, a water supply unit for supplying water to the washing tank, a drainage unit for draining water from the washing tank, a detergent supply unit for supplying detergent to the washing tank, an item quantity detection unit for detecting the amount of items to be washed contained in the washing tank, and a control unit that controls the water supply unit, the drainage unit, and the detergent supply unit to perform the process of washing the items to be washed. The control unit obtains the amount of items to be washed from the item quantity detection unit and supplies an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of items to be washed from the detergent supply unit to the washing tank to wash the items.

[0008] The cleaning method in this disclosure comprises the steps of detecting the amount of object to be cleaned contained in a cleaning tank, and cleaning the object with cleaning water containing an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of object to be cleaned.

[0009] The control program in this disclosure is a control program for controlling a dishwasher, which causes a computer to perform the steps of: detecting the amount of items to be washed contained in the washing tank; and washing the items with washing water containing an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of items to be washed.

[0010] Furthermore, any combination of the above components, as well as conversions of the expressions of this disclosure between methods, apparatus, systems, recording media, computer programs, etc., are also valid embodiments of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to this disclosure, the cleaning efficiency of dishwashers can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Schematic cross-sectional view of the dishwasher in Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] Functional configuration diagram of the control unit for controlling the dishwasher in Embodiment 1 [Figure 3] Flowchart showing the procedure for the cleaning method in Embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Flowchart showing the procedure for the cleaning method in Embodiment 1 [Figure 5] Flowchart showing the procedure for the cleaning method in Embodiment 1 [Figure 6] A timing chart showing the washing water temperature at each stage and the on / off status of the water supply valve, washing and drainage pump (during washing), heater, detergent pump, washing and drainage pump (during drainage), and drying fan. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary details may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted.

[0014] The attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0015] (Embodiment 1) Embodiment 1 will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 6.

[0016] The dishwasher of Embodiment 1 is equipped with a configuration for automatically supplying detergent to the washing tank. It automatically supplies an appropriate amount of detergent to the washing tank according to the amount of dirt and oil attached to the items to be washed, as well as the quantity of items to be washed, thereby washing the items. This improves the efficiency of washing and rinsing the items. In addition, it is possible to appropriately adjust the amount of detergent used and prevent the use of excessive detergent.

[0017] [1-1. Structure] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a dishwasher in Embodiment 1.

[0018] As shown in Fig. 1, the dishwasher 10 in the present embodiment includes a main body 11, a washing tub 12, a water supply valve 1, a washing and drainage pump 2, a heater 3, a water temperature sensor 4, a turbidity sensor 5, a detergent tank 6, a detergent pump 7, a drying fan 8, and a washing nozzle 9.

[0019] The washing tub 12 is provided inside the main body 11. Inside the washing tub 12, a dish basket 14 for placing objects to be washed such as dishes 13 is accommodated.

[0020] The water supply valve 1 is provided in a path for supplying washing water into the washing tub 12. Here, the washing water refers to a liquid used for washing and rinsing objects to be washed such as dishes 13 in the dishwasher 10.

[0021] The washing and drainage pump 2 is driven to wash the objects to be washed by circulating the washing water in the washing tub 12 or to drain the washing water from the washing tub 12.

[0022] The heater 3 heats the washing water in the washing tub 12. The water temperature sensor 4 detects the temperature of the washing water in the washing tub 12. As will be described later, the water temperature sensor 4 is also used to detect the amount of the objects to be washed.

[0023] The turbidity sensor 5 detects the turbidity of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 12. As described later, the turbidity sensor 5 is used to detect the amount of dirt and oil adhering to the object being cleaned. The turbidity sensor 5 may be an optical sensor or camera, etc., comprising a light-emitting unit that irradiates the cleaning water with light such as infrared, visible light, or ultraviolet light, and a light-receiving unit provided opposite the light-emitting unit that receives the light transmitted through the cleaning water and detects the transmittance. The turbidity sensor 5 is installed in the drainage path or cleaning channel of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 12, or in a circulation path that is not drained, and detects the turbidity of the cleaning water when the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 12 is drained. When installed in the drainage path of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 12, turbidity detection can be performed in the drainage path, enabling stable detection even with a small amount of water used. Also, because the time the turbidity sensor 5 is in contact with dirt is short, it is effective in suppressing a decrease in sensitivity due to contamination. The turbidity sensor 5 may be installed in a way that allows it to detect the turbidity of the cleaning water inside the cleaning tank 12. In this case, the turbidity sensor 5 can be placed in a location where it is immersed in or comes into contact with the cleaning water inside the chamber, such as on the wall or bottom of the cleaning tank 12. In this case, the turbidity sensor 5 can detect the turbidity of the cleaning water inside the cleaning tank 12 at any desired time.

[0024] The detergent tank 6 stores liquid detergent inside. The detergent pump 7 is driven to supply the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 6 into the washing tank 12. The operating time of the detergent pump 7 varies depending on the amount of liquid detergent being supplied. The more detergent supplied, the longer the operating time of the detergent pump 7.

[0025] The drying fan 8 blows air for drying during the process of drying items to be washed, such as dishes 13. The drying fan 8 is located near the heater 3. By driving the heater 3 when the drying fan 8 is driven, heated air can be blown onto the items to be washed, thereby accelerating drying.

[0026] The cleaning nozzle 9 is rotatably mounted at the bottom of the cleaning tank 12 and sprays cleaning water onto the object to be cleaned from multiple nozzles provided on its surface.

[0027] Figure 2 shows the functional configuration of the control unit 50 for controlling the dishwasher 10 in Embodiment 1. The control unit 50 is implemented by hardware such as a microcomputer, microcontroller, and integrated circuit.

[0028] The control unit 50 includes a soiling amount detection unit 51, a dish quantity detection unit 52, an oil quantity detection unit 53, a detergent quantity determination unit 54, a liquid delivery control unit 55, and a process control unit 56. These configurations are implemented hardware-wise by the CPU, memory, and other LSIs of any computer, and software-wise by programs loaded into memory, but here we are describing functional blocks that are realized through the cooperation of these components. Therefore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be implemented in various forms, such as hardware only or a combination of hardware and software.

[0029] The process control unit 56 controls the processes executed in the dishwasher 10. The process control unit 56 controls a pre-washing process in which the items to be washed are pre-washed with detergent-free washing water, a washing process in which the items to be washed are washed with detergent-containing washing water, an additional washing process which is performed when there is a large amount of oil attached to the items to be washed, a rinsing process in which the items to be washed are rinsed, a heated rinsing process in which the items to be washed are rinsed while the washing water is heated, and a drying process in which the items to be washed are dried. The process control unit 56 may execute these processes continuously, execute only one of the processes, or execute any combination of two or more processes in any order. The dishwasher 10 also has an automatic course which automatically determines and executes some of the processes controlled by the process control unit 56. With this automatic course, the dishwasher 10 can automatically determine whether to add washing and rinsing processes, and the amount of detergent to add, according to the amount of dirt.

[0030] The dirt amount detection unit 51 detects the amount of dirt attached to the object to be cleaned. The dirt amount detection unit 51 obtains the turbidity of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank 12 containing the object to be cleaned from the turbidity sensor 5, and detects the degree of dirtiness of the object to be cleaned based on the turbidity of the cleaning water. The dirt amount detection unit 51 determines that the higher the turbidity of the cleaning water, the greater the amount of dirt.

[0031] The turbidity of the cleaning water is determined by converting the transmittance into a voltage and viewing it numerically. Cleaning water containing dirt from the object being cleaned is colored and cloudy, and the turbidity is detected at a low value. Therefore, the reference value for determining the amount of dirt is set low. In this embodiment, the amount of dirt is divided into three stages: small, medium, and large. When classifying the amount of dirt, two thresholds are used: a first threshold that divides the dirt level into small and medium, and a second threshold that divides the dirt level into medium and large. These thresholds are determined by the ratio of the approximate voltage value to the maximum voltage value corresponding to the expected turbidity. For example, if the maximum voltage value corresponding to the approximately expected turbidity is set to 100%, the first threshold is set to approximately 30%. The second threshold is set to approximately 70%. If a voltage of 30% or less is detected, the amount of contamination is determined to be small because it is below the first threshold. If a voltage of 30% or more but 70% or less is detected, the amount of contamination is determined to be medium because it is above the first threshold but below the second threshold. Furthermore, if a voltage of 70% or more is detected, the amount of contamination is determined to be large because it is above the second threshold.

[0032] Therefore, for example, if the first threshold is set to 25% and the second threshold to 70%, and the maximum voltage value corresponding to the expected turbidity is 2.0V, then if the detected voltage is 1.2V, it is higher than 0.5V and lower than 1.4V, so the turbidity sensor 5 determines that the amount of contamination is moderate. Also, for example, if the detected voltage is higher than 1.4V, the turbidity sensor 5 determines that the amount of contamination is high. However, there are not necessarily two thresholds, and the thresholds themselves may be changed as appropriate according to the specifications of the turbidity sensor. Furthermore, instead of setting the maximum voltage value corresponding to the expected turbidity to 100%, the maximum voltage value detectable by the turbidity sensor used may be set to 100%.

[0033] Furthermore, by changing the threshold voltage depending on the water temperature of the washing water used, more accurate detection of dirt and determination of the amount of detergent to be added can be achieved. In this embodiment, the lower the water temperature used for washing, the harder it is to remove dirt, so it is better to use more detergent, and the threshold voltage is set low so that a large amount of dirt is detected. On the other hand, the higher the water temperature, the easier it is to remove dirt, so it is not necessary to use an unnecessarily large amount of detergent, and the threshold voltage is set high so that a small amount of dirt is detected.

[0034] For example, let's explain a method of setting the second threshold in three stages depending on the water temperature. When the water temperature is 30°C or below, the second threshold is 70%, but when the water temperature is between 30°C and 40°C, the second threshold is set slightly higher to 76%. Furthermore, when the water temperature is 40°C or above, the second threshold is set to 82%.

[0035] By setting variable thresholds in this way and accurately determining the amount of dirt in multiple stages, the amount of detergent used can be kept to the necessary amount. Therefore, it is effective from the standpoint of environmental considerations and cost reduction.

[0036] The soiling detection unit 51 may obtain the turbidity of the washing water during the pre-washing process from the turbidity sensor 5 and detect the degree of soiling of the object to be washed based on the turbidity of the washing water. In this case, the pre-washing process, which is performed by washing with water without detergent before the washing process, selectively separates mainly hydrophilic dirt such as proteins and carbohydrates into the washing water, and by measuring the turbidity of the washing water at this time, the soiling detection unit 51 can measure the amount of hydrophilic dirt in particular.

[0037] The dish quantity detection unit 52 detects the amount of items to be washed contained in the washing tank 12. When the washing water in the washing tank 12 containing the items to be washed is heated by the heater 3, the dish quantity detection unit 52 obtains the temperature of the washing water from the water temperature sensor 4 and detects the amount of items to be washed based on the rate of change in the temperature of the washing water. The dish quantity detection unit 52 holds a threshold value in advance and determines that the amount of items to be washed is small if the rate at which the temperature of the washing water rises is faster than the threshold value, and determines that the amount of items to be washed is large if the rate at which the temperature of the washing water rises is slower than the threshold value.

[0038] When the water temperature sensor 4 detects the temperature of the washing water, if it calculates that it takes more than 50 seconds to raise the water temperature by, for example, 10°C, the dish quantity detection unit 52 determines that there are too many dishes. Conversely, if the water temperature sensor 4 calculates that it does not take as long as 50 seconds to raise the water temperature by, for example, 10°C, the dish quantity detection unit 52 determines that there are too few dishes. However, this threshold can be changed as needed, as long as it is between 40 and 60 seconds.

[0039] Furthermore, the dish quantity detection unit 52 may store two or more thresholds in advance and classify the amount of items to be washed into three or more levels. The dish quantity detection unit 52 may also detect the amount of items to be washed from the weight of the items to be washed detected by a weight sensor. In this case, the weight sensor may, for example, measure and compare the weight when the washing tank 12 is empty and when items to be washed are placed inside. Alternatively, a reference weight may be set to determine the amount of items to be washed. The dish quantity detection unit 52 may also detect the amount of items to be washed from an image of the inside of the washing tank 12 captured by an imaging device. In this case, the imaging device may, for example, be installed outside the dishwasher 1 and photograph and compare the weight when the washing tank 12 is empty and when items to be washed are placed inside.

[0040] The oil quantity detection unit 53 detects the amount of oil adhering to the object to be cleaned. The oil quantity detection unit 53 obtains the turbidity of the washing water in the washing tank 12 containing the object to be cleaned from the turbidity sensor 5, and detects the amount of oil adhering to the object to be cleaned based on the turbidity of the washing water. The oil quantity detection unit 53 determines that the higher the turbidity of the washing water, the greater the amount of oil. The oil quantity detection unit 53 may also obtain the turbidity of the washing water during the washing process from the turbidity sensor 5, and detect the amount of oil adhering to the object to be cleaned based on the turbidity of the washing water containing oil emulsified by the detergent. In this case, after washing with water, a washing process in which detergent is added separates hydrophobic contaminants such as oil into the washing water, and by measuring the turbidity of the washing water at this time, the oil quantity detection unit 53 can determine the amount of hydrophobic contaminants in particular.

[0041] The turbidity of this cleaning water is determined by converting the transmittance into a voltage and viewing it numerically. Cleaning water mixed with oily dirt from the object being cleaned is milky white, making it difficult for light to pass through, and therefore a high turbidity value is detected. For this reason, the reference value for determining the amount of dirt is set higher than that used when detecting the amount of dirt by the dirt amount detection unit 51. The general method for determining the amount of dirt is the same as that used by the dirt amount detection unit 51, so the explanation is omitted.

[0042] Specifically, in this embodiment, the oil level detection unit 53 determines the amount of contamination in two stages: small and large. Furthermore, a third threshold is used to differentiate the contamination levels into small and large. For example, if the maximum voltage value corresponding to the roughly expected turbidity is set to 100%, the third threshold is set to approximately 50%. If a voltage below 50% is detected, the contamination is determined to be small because it is below the third threshold; if a voltage above 50% is detected, the contamination is determined to be large because it is above the third threshold. The actual third threshold is set, for example, to 1.0V, which is 50%.

[0043] However, there may be multiple thresholds, and the thresholds themselves may be changed as appropriate to match the specifications of the turbidity sensor. Furthermore, instead of setting the maximum voltage value corresponding to the expected turbidity to 100%, the maximum detectable voltage value of the turbidity sensor used may be set to 100%. In addition, the threshold may be varied depending on the water temperature of the washing water, as detected by the dirt amount detection unit 51.

[0044] The detergent amount determination unit 54 determines the amount of detergent to be supplied to the washing tank 12 when washing the items to be washed, based on the amount of dirt detected by the dirt amount detection unit 51, the amount of items to be washed detected by the dish amount detection unit 52, and the amount of oil detected by the oil amount detection unit 53. The detergent amount determination unit 54 increases the amount of detergent the more dirt detected by the dirt amount detection unit 51 is. The detergent amount determination unit 54 increases the amount of detergent the more items to be washed detected by the dish amount detection unit 52 is. The detergent amount determination unit 54 increases the amount of detergent the more oil detected by the oil amount detection unit 53 is. Alternatively, a predetermined amount of detergent plus the amount of detergent determined based on the amount of items to be washed detected by the dish amount detection unit 52 may be added from the start of the washing process. When the user selects the aforementioned automatic course, the dishwasher 10 automatically determines the amount of dirt and the amount of detergent based on the detergent amount determination unit 54 as described above, and performs optimal washing for the dirt.

[0045] The liquid supply control unit 55 controls the supply of detergent from the detergent tank 6 to the washing tank 12. The liquid supply control unit 55 drives the detergent pump 7 so that the amount of detergent determined by the detergent amount determination unit 54 is supplied into the washing tank 12 at a predetermined timing.

[0046] [1-2. Operation] The operation and function of the dishwasher 10, configured as described above, will be explained below.

[0047] Figures 3, 4, and 5 are flowcharts showing the procedure of the cleaning method in Embodiment 1. Figure 6 is a timing chart showing the cleaning water temperature at each step and the on / off status of the water supply valve 1, cleaning drainage pump 2 (during cleaning), heater 3, detergent pump 7, cleaning drainage pump 2 (during drainage), and drying fan 8.

[0048] Figure 3 shows the procedure for the pre-washing process. In the pre-washing process, the process control unit 56 opens the water supply valve 1 and supplies water to the washing tank 12 (S10). The process control unit 56 drives the washing drainage pump 2 for a predetermined time to pre-wash the items to be washed (S12). The process control unit 56 drives the washing drainage pump 2 to drain the washing water from the washing tank 12 (S14).

[0049] The dirt amount detection unit 51 obtains the turbidity of the drained washing water from the turbidity sensor 5 and detects the amount of dirt on the object to be washed (S16). The detergent amount determination unit 54 sets the amount of detergent corresponding to the "low" dirt level if the amount of dirt is less than the standard value (Y in S18), and sets the amount of detergent corresponding to the "high" dirt level if the amount of dirt is more than the standard value (N in S18) (S22). This completes the pre-washing process.

[0050] Figure 4 shows the procedures for the washing, rinsing, heated rinsing, and drying processes. In the washing process, the process control unit 56 opens the water supply valve 1 to supply water to the washing tank 12 (S30). If the detergent amount determination unit 54 sets the amount of detergent corresponding to a "low" soiling level (Y in S32), the liquid supply control unit 55 dispenses a small amount of detergent corresponding to a "low" soiling level from the detergent tank 6 into the washing tank 12 (S34). If the detergent amount corresponding to a "high" soiling level is set (N in S32), the liquid supply control unit 55 dispenses a standard amount of detergent corresponding to a "high" soiling level from the detergent tank 6 into the washing tank 12 (S36). The process control unit 56 drives the washing drain pump 2, heater 3, and washing nozzle 9 for a predetermined time and sprays the washing water onto the object to be washed while heating it to wash the object (S38). Before performing the washing process, which involves washing the object to be cleaned with detergent-containing washing water, the amount of dirt is detected in the pre-washing process, and the appropriate amount of detergent is determined in advance. This improves washing efficiency and reduces the use of excessive detergent.

[0051] The dish quantity detection unit 52 acquires the temperature of the washing water from the water temperature sensor 4 at predetermined timings t1 and t2 in the washing process as shown in Figure 6, and detects the amount of items to be washed contained in the washing tank 12 based on the rate of change in the temperature of the washing water during the period from t1 to t2. If the amount of items to be washed is greater than the standard value (N in S40), the detergent quantity determination unit 54 determines the amount of additional detergent to be added, and the liquid supply control unit 55 adds the determined amount of additional detergent from the detergent tank 6 to the washing tank 12 (S42). If the amount of items to be washed is less than the standard value (Y in S40), no additional detergent is added. The process control unit 56 continues to drive the washing drain pump 2, heater 3, and washing nozzle 9 to wash the items to be washed (S44). In order to ensure sufficient washing time after adding additional detergent, the dish quantity detection unit 52 may detect the amount of items to be washed at an earlier stage of the washing process, for example, in the first half. Furthermore, in order to more accurately detect the rate of change in the temperature of the washing water, the dish quantity detection unit 52 may detect the amount of items to be washed after the washing water has been heated to room temperature or higher. The dish quantity detection unit 52 may also detect the amount of items to be washed by driving the heater 3 to heat the washing water during the pre-washing process. In this case, at the start of the washing process, an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of items to be washed can be supplied into the washing tank 12, thereby improving washing efficiency. Even when the dish quantity detection unit 52 detects the amount of items to be washed using a weight sensor or an imaging device, an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of items to be washed can be supplied into the washing tank 12 at the start of the washing process, thereby improving washing efficiency. When a predetermined washing time has elapsed, the process control unit 56 drives the washing drain pump 2 to drain the washing water from the washing tank 12 (S46).

[0052] The oil quantity detection unit 53 obtains the turbidity of the drained washing water from the turbidity sensor 5 and detects the amount of oil adhering to the object to be washed (S47). If the amount of oil is greater than the standard value (N in S48), the detergent quantity determination unit 54 determines the amount of additional detergent to be added, and the process control unit 56 executes an additional washing process (S50). Alternatively, the heater 3 may be driven to raise the temperature of the washing water during the rinsing process. Alternatively, the heater 3 may be driven during the additional washing process to raise the temperature of the washing water during the additional washing process. If the amount of oil is less than the standard value (Y in S48), no additional washing process is executed. In the middle of the washing process, a portion of the washing water may be drained to obtain the turbidity of the washing water and detect the amount of oil. In this case, an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of oil can be added in the middle of the washing process. Also, if the turbidity sensor 5 can detect the turbidity of the washing water inside the washing tank 12, an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of oil can be added in the middle of the washing process. The washing process is then completed.

[0053] Thus, the detergent dispensing process is repeated multiple times depending on the detection result of the amount of dirt or the amount of dishes. Similarly, the dirt amount detection process is repeated multiple times depending on the detection result of the amount of dirt.

[0054] In the rinsing process, the process control unit 56 opens the water supply valve 1 to supply water to the washing tank 12, drives the washing drain pump 2 to rinse the objects to be washed, and then drives the washing drain pump 2 again to drain the washing water from the washing tank 12 (S52). The process control unit 56 repeats the above rinsing operation twice.

[0055] In the heating and rinsing process, the process control unit 56 opens the water supply valve 1 to supply water to the washing tank 12, drives the washing and draining pump 2 and heater 3 to heat the washing water while rinsing the objects to be washed, and then drives the washing and draining pump 2 to drain the washing water from the washing tank 12 (S54).

[0056] The process control unit 56 drives the drying fan 8 while intermittently driving the heater 3 during the drying process to dry the object to be washed (S56).

[0057] Figure 5 shows the procedure for the additional washing step (S50 in Figure 4). In the additional washing step, the process control unit 56 opens the water supply valve 1 and supplies water to the washing tank 12 (S60). The liquid supply control unit 55 puts the amount of detergent set by the detergent amount determination unit 54 from the detergent tank 6 into the washing tank 12 (S62). The process control unit 56 drives the washing drain pump 2 and the washing nozzle 9 for a predetermined time and sprays the washing water onto the object to be washed to wash it (S64). Since the inside of the washing tank 12 and the object to be washed are hot in the previous washing step, the process control unit 56 does not need to drive the heater 3 in the additional washing step. Alternatively, the process control unit 56 may drive the heater 3 in the additional washing step as well to heat the washing water. When the predetermined washing time has elapsed, the process control unit 56 drives the washing drain pump 2 to drain the washing water from the washing tank 12 (S66).

[0058] Figure 6 shows the washing water temperature in each process and a timing chart indicating the on / off status of each component in the dishwasher 10. In the pre-wash process, the washing drain pump 2 is driven to drain the water. The amount of detergent to be used is set by the dirt amount detection unit 51 to correspond to the amount of dirt on the items to be washed, based on the amount of drained water at this time.

[0059] In the washing process, the heater 3 is first activated to begin heating the washing water. The amount of detergent set in the pre-washing process is then added from the detergent tank 6 to the washing tank 12. Next, based on the rate of temperature change of the heated washing water during the period from t1 to t2, the amount of material to be washed in the washing tank 12 is detected, and the decision of whether or not to add additional detergent and the amount to add is determined. This determined additional amount of detergent is then added from the detergent tank 6 to the washing tank 12. In the subsequent washing process, after a predetermined washing time has elapsed, the washing drain pump 2 is activated to drain the water. Furthermore, based on this drainage, the dirt amount detection unit 51 determines whether or not to perform a further washing process and the amount of additional detergent to add, corresponding to the amount of oil detected. If it is decided to add further detergent, an additional washing process is performed, and the additional amount of detergent is added from the detergent tank 6 to the washing tank 12.

[0060] As shown in the above example, depending on the detection result of the amount of dirt, up to two washing steps may be performed, excluding the pre-wash. Furthermore, if there is a lot of dirt, multiple washing steps may be added based on the amount of dirt drained after the additional washing steps. Also, as shown in the above example, depending on the detection result of the amount of dirt, detergent may be added in stages up to three times.

[0061] Next, we will describe in detail the various patterns of detergent input amounts determined by the detection results in the washing, rinsing, and heated rinsing processes shown in Figure 4.

[0062] (Pattern A) When the flows of N in S32, N in S40, and N in S48 are passed through During the pre-washing process, if the dirt detection unit detects a value higher than a predetermined threshold, indicating a high level of dirt, it will add, for example, 8g of detergent. However, adding between 7g and 9g is acceptable. (Total 8g)

[0063] If the machine detects a large amount of soiling, and the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit during the washing process exceeds a predetermined threshold, an additional 5g of detergent will be added. However, an amount between 4g and 6g is generally acceptable. (Total 13g)

[0064] If the machine detects a large amount of dirt and a large quantity of dishes, and the oil level detection unit during the washing process detects a higher-than-usual threshold, an additional 8g of oil will be added. However, an amount between 7g and 9g is generally acceptable. (Total 21g)

[0065] (Pattern B) When the flow passes through N in S32, N in S40, and Y in S48 During the pre-washing process, if the dirt detection unit detects a value higher than a predetermined threshold, indicating a high level of dirt, it will add, for example, 8g of detergent. However, adding between 7g and 9g is acceptable. (Total 8g)

[0066] If the machine detects a large amount of soiling, and the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit during the washing process exceeds a predetermined threshold, an additional 5g of detergent will be added. However, an amount between 4g and 6g is generally acceptable. (Total 13g)

[0067] If the machine detects a large amount of dirt and a large quantity of dishes, and the oil level detection unit detects a low oil level during the washing process (below a predetermined threshold), no further detergent should be added. Alternatively, a small amount may be added (total 13g).

[0068] (Pattern C1) When the flow passes through N in S32, Y in S40, and N in S48 During the pre-washing process, if the dirt detection unit detects a value higher than a predetermined threshold, indicating a high level of dirt, it will add, for example, 8g of detergent. However, adding between 7g and 9g is acceptable. (Total 8g)

[0069] If the machine determines that there is a large amount of soiling, and the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit during the washing process is lower than a predetermined threshold, indicating that there are few dishes, no further detergent will be added. Alternatively, a small amount may be added (total 8g).

[0070] If the machine determines that there is a large amount of dirt and a small amount of dishes, and the oil level detection unit detects a value higher than a predetermined threshold during the washing process, an additional 5g of oil will be added. However, an amount between 4g and 6g is generally acceptable. (Total 13g)

[0071] (Pattern C2) When the flow of Y in S32, N in S40, and N in S48 is passed through During the pre-washing process, if the value detected by the dirt detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that the amount of dirt is small, then, for example, 5g of detergent will be added. However, there is no particular problem if the amount is in the range of 4g to 6g. (Total 5g)

[0072] If the amount of soiling is determined to be small, and the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit during the washing process is higher than a predetermined threshold, indicating a large amount of dishes, an additional 3g of detergent will be added. However, an amount between 2g and 4g is generally acceptable. (Total 8g)

[0073] If the amount of dirt is low and the number of dishes is high, and the oil level detection unit detects a value higher than a predetermined threshold during the washing process, an additional 5g will be added. However, an amount between 4g and 6g is generally acceptable. (Total 13g)

[0074] (Pattern D1) When the flow passes through N in S32, Y in S40, and Y in S48 During the pre-washing process, if the dirt detection unit detects a value higher than a predetermined threshold, indicating a high level of dirt, it will add, for example, 8g of detergent. However, adding between 7g and 9g is acceptable. (Total 8g)

[0075] If the machine determines that there is a large amount of soiling, and the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit during the washing process is lower than a predetermined threshold, indicating that there are few dishes, no further detergent will be added. Alternatively, a small amount may be added (total 8g).

[0076] If the machine determines that there is a large amount of dirt and a small amount of dishes, and the oil level detection unit detects a value below a predetermined threshold during the washing process, indicating that there is insufficient oil, no further detergent will be added. Alternatively, a small amount may be added (total 8g).

[0077] (Pattern D2) When the flow passes through Y in S32, N in S40, and Y in S48 During the pre-washing process, if the value detected by the dirt detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that the amount of dirt is small, then, for example, 5g of detergent will be added. However, there is no particular problem if the amount is in the range of 4g to 6g. (Total 5g)

[0078] If the amount of soiling is determined to be small, and the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit during the washing process is higher than a predetermined threshold, indicating a large amount of dishes, an additional 3g of detergent will be added. However, an amount between 2g and 4g is generally acceptable. (Total 8g)

[0079] If the amount of dirt is small and the number of dishes is large, and the oil level detection unit detects a value below a predetermined threshold during the washing process, indicating that the amount of oil is small, no further detergent will be added. Alternatively, a small amount may be added (total 8g).

[0080] (Pattern E) When the flow of Y in S32, Y in S40, and N in S48 is passed through During the pre-washing process, if the value detected by the dirt detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that the amount of dirt is small, then, for example, 5g of detergent will be added. However, there is no particular problem if the amount is in the range of 4g to 6g. (Total 5g)

[0081] If the amount of soiling is determined to be low, and the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit during the washing process is lower than a predetermined threshold, no further detergent will be added. Alternatively, a small amount may be added (total 5g).

[0082] If the amount of dirt and the number of dishes are deemed to be small, and the oil level detection unit detects a value higher than a predetermined threshold during the washing process, an additional 3g will be added. However, an amount between 2g and 4g is generally acceptable. (Total 8g)

[0083] (Pattern F) When the flow passes through Y in S32, Y in S40, and Y in S48 During the pre-washing process, if the value detected by the dirt detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that the amount of dirt is small, then, for example, 5g of detergent will be added. However, there is no particular problem if the amount is in the range of 4g to 6g. (Total 5g)

[0084] If the amount of soiling is determined to be low, and the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit during the washing process is lower than a predetermined threshold, no further detergent will be added. Alternatively, a small amount may be added (total 5g).

[0085] If the amount of dirt and the number of dishes are small, and the oil level detection unit detects a value below a predetermined threshold during the washing process, indicating a low oil level, no further detergent will be added. Alternatively, a small amount may be added (total 5g).

[0086] Based on these patterns A through F, the following can be said about the amount of detergent to be added in this embodiment.

[0087] For example, when the system passes through flows N in S32 and Y in S40, that is, in the pre-washing process, the total amount of detergent added when the dirt detection unit detects a value higher than a predetermined threshold and determines that there is a large amount of dirt (e.g., 8g), and in the washing process, the total amount of detergent added when the dish quantity detection unit detects a value lower than a predetermined threshold and determines that there is a small amount of dishes (e.g., 0g), is approximately equal to the total amount of detergent added when the system passes through flows Y in S32 and N in S40, that is, when the dirt detection unit detects a value lower than a predetermined threshold and determines that there is a small amount of dirt (e.g., 5g), and in the washing process, the total amount of detergent added when the dish quantity detection unit detects a value higher than a predetermined threshold and determines that there is a small amount of dirt (e.g., 3g).

[0088] For example, in pattern B, that is, in the pre-washing process, the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the dirt detection unit is higher than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that there is a large amount of dirt (e.g., 8g), in the washing process, the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit is higher than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that there is a large amount of dishes (e.g., 5g), and in the washing process, the total amount of detergent added when the value detected by the oil quantity detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that there is a small amount of oil (e.g., 0g) is... In pattern C1, that is, the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the dirt detection unit is higher than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that there is a large amount of dirt (e.g., 8g), and in the washing process, the predetermined value detected by the dish quantity detection unit is... The total amount of detergent added when the amount of dishes is judged to be small because it is lower than the threshold (e.g., 0g), and the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the oil detection unit is higher than a predetermined threshold and it is judged that there is a lot of oil during the washing process (e.g., 5g), is approximately equal to the sum of the amounts of detergent added when pattern C2 occurs, that is, when the value detected by the dirt detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is judged that there is a little dirt (e.g., 5g), the amount of detergent added when the predetermined value detected by the dish quantity detection unit is higher than a predetermined threshold during the washing process (e.g., 3g), and the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the oil detection unit is higher than a predetermined threshold and it is judged that there is a lot of oil during the washing process (e.g., 5g).

[0089] For example, when it is pattern D1, that is, in the pre-washing process, the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the dirt detection unit is higher than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that there is a lot of dirt (e.g., 8g), and in the washing process, the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the dish quantity detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that there is a little dish (e.g., 0g), and in the washing process, the total amount of detergent added when the value detected by the oil quantity detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that there is a little oil (e.g., 0g) is, when it is pattern D2, that is, the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the dirt detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is determined that there is a little dirt (e.g., 5g), and in the washing process, the predetermined value detected by the dish quantity detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold The total amount of detergent added when the amount of dishes is judged to be large because it is higher than a predetermined threshold (e.g., 3g), and the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the oil amount detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is judged that the amount of oil is small (e.g., 0g) during the washing process is approximately equal to the sum of the amounts of detergent added when the value detected by the dirt detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is judged that the amount of dirt is small (e.g., 5g), the amount of detergent added when the predetermined value detected by the dishes quantity detection unit is lower than a predetermined threshold and it is judged that the amount of dishes is small (e.g., 0g) during the washing process, and the amount of detergent added when the value detected by the oil amount detection unit is higher than a predetermined threshold and it is judged that the amount of oil is large (e.g., 3g) during the washing process is approximately equal to the sum of the amounts of detergent added when it is judged that the amount of oil is large

[0090] In the example above, the amount of detergent supplied to the washing tank 12 was adjusted based on the amount of dirt attached to the object to be washed, the amount of object to be washed contained in the washing tank 12, and the amount of oil attached to the object to be washed. However, the amount of detergent may be adjusted based on only one of these factors, or on any combination of two factors. Therefore, during the washing process, a portion of the washing water may be drained to obtain the turbidity of the washing water and detect the amount of oil. In this case, even during the washing process, an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of oil can be added. Furthermore, the number of times and the order in which the amount of detergent is adjusted, as well as the amount of detergent adjusted, may also be arbitrary.

[0091] As described above, the dishwasher 10 determines the amount of dirt each time it is used and dispenses the appropriate amount of detergent, thereby performing optimal cleaning for the dirt. Therefore, users can easily start washing whether the amount of dirt is heavy or light. Furthermore, even if there is a discrepancy between the amount of dirt the user expected and the actual amount of dirt, the dishwasher can dispense the optimal amount of detergent at the optimal time according to the actual amount of dirt, and wash the dishes. As a result, users do not add too much detergent, and it is possible to ensure sufficient cleaning power while saving on detergent. This operation is performed when the user selects the automatic course.

[0092] In the above example, the amount of detergent supplied to the washing tank 12 was adjusted based on the amount of dirt attached to the object to be washed, the amount of object to be washed contained in the washing tank 12, and the amount of oil attached to the object to be washed. However, the determination of the amount of dirt, the determination of the amount of detergent, and the dispensing of detergent by the automatic course may be carried out based on only one of these factors, or on any combination of two of them.

[0093] [1-3. Effects, etc.] As described above, in this embodiment, the dishwasher 10 includes a washing tank 12 in which items to be washed, such as dishes 13, a water supply valve 1 for supplying water to the washing tank 12, a washing and draining pump 2 for draining water from the washing tank 12, a detergent pump 7 for supplying detergent to the washing tank 12, a dish quantity detection unit 52 for detecting the amount of items to be washed contained in the washing tank 12, and a control unit 50 that controls the water supply valve 1, the washing and draining pump 2, and the detergent pump 7 to perform the process of washing the items to be washed. The control unit 50 obtains the amount of items to be washed from the dish quantity detection unit 52 and supplies an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of items to be washed from the detergent pump 7 to the washing tank 12 to wash the items. This improves the washing power and washing efficiency of the dishwasher 10. It also helps to suppress the use of excessive detergent.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 50 first supplies a predetermined amount of detergent from the detergent pump 7 to the washing tank 12 to wash the items to be washed, and then decides whether or not to supply more detergent from the detergent pump 7 to the washing tank 12 depending on the amount of items to be washed. This improves the washing power and washing efficiency of the dishwasher 10. It also helps to suppress the use of excessive detergent.

[0095] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the dishwasher 10 is further equipped with a heater 3 that heats the washing water in the washing tank 12, and the dish quantity detection unit 52 detects the temperature of the washing water in the washing tank 12 and detects the amount of items to be washed based on the rate of change in the temperature of the washing water in the washing tank 12. As a result, the amount of items to be washed can be detected without adding any components, thus reducing the manufacturing cost of the dishwasher 10.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the dish quantity detection unit 52 acquires the rate of change in the temperature of the washing water in the washing tank 12 over a predetermined period of time during the washing process. This makes it possible to detect the amount of items to be washed without adding any components, thus reducing the manufacturing cost of the dishwasher 10.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the washing method includes the steps of detecting the amount of items to be washed contained in the washing tank 12, and washing the items with washing water containing an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of items to be washed. This improves the washing power and washing efficiency of the dishwasher 10. It also helps to reduce the use of excessive detergent.

[0098] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the washing method includes a step of washing the items to be washed with washing water containing a predetermined amount of detergent before the step of detecting the amount of items to be washed, and a step of deciding whether or not to supply more detergent to the washing tank 12 according to the amount of items to be washed after the step of detecting the amount of items to be washed. This makes it possible to improve the washing power and washing efficiency of the dishwasher 10. It also makes it possible to suppress the use of excessive detergent.

[0099] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the step of washing the objects to be washed with washing water containing a predetermined amount of detergent includes a step of heating the washing water, and in the step of detecting the amount of objects to be washed, the amount of objects to be washed is detected based on the rate of change in the temperature of the washing water. As a result, the amount of objects to be washed can be detected without adding any components, thus reducing the manufacturing cost of the dishwasher 10.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control program for controlling the dishwasher causes the computer to perform the steps of detecting the amount of items to be washed in the washing tub 12, and washing the items with washing water containing an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of items to be washed. This improves the washing power and washing efficiency of the dishwasher 10. It also helps to reduce the use of excessive detergent.

[0101] (Other embodiments) As described above, Embodiment 1 has been explained as an example of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to this and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in Embodiment 1 above.

[0102] Therefore, other embodiments are illustrated below.

[0103] Embodiment 1 described a dishwasher for washing items to be washed, such as tableware. However, the technology of this disclosure can also be applied to washing machines for washing clothes, and other washing devices for washing items to be washed. [Industrial applicability]

[0104] This invention can be used in dishwashers for washing items to be washed. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0105] 1. Water supply valve 2. Washing and draining pump 3 Heaters 4. Water temperature sensor 5. Turbidity Sensor 6. Detergent tank 7. Detergent pump 8. Drying fan 9. Cleaning nozzle 10 Dishwasher 11 Main unit 12 Washing tank 13 dishes 50 Control Unit 51 Dirt level detection unit 52 Dish quantity detection unit 53 Oil level detection unit 54 Detergent amount determination unit 55 Fluid delivery control unit 56 Process Control Unit

Claims

1. A washing tank containing the items to be washed, A water supply unit for supplying water to the aforementioned washing tank, A drainage section for draining water from the aforementioned cleaning tank, A detergent supply unit for supplying detergent to the aforementioned washing tank, A unit for detecting the amount of object to be cleaned contained in the cleaning tank, A control unit that controls the water supply unit, the drainage unit, and the detergent supply unit to perform the process of washing the object to be washed, Equipped with, The control unit, The amount of the object to be cleaned is obtained from the object quantity detection unit, and an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of the object to be cleaned is supplied from the detergent supply unit to the cleaning tank to clean the object. dishwasher.

2. The control unit first supplies a predetermined amount of detergent from the detergent supply unit to the washing tank to wash the object to be washed, and then decides whether or not to supply more detergent from the detergent supply unit to the washing tank depending on the amount of the object to be washed. The dishwasher according to claim 1.

3. The washing tank further comprises a heating unit for heating the washing water, The object to be cleaned quantity detection unit detects the temperature of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank and detects the quantity of the object to be cleaned based on the rate of change in the temperature of the cleaning water in the cleaning tank. A dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The object to be washed quantity detection unit acquires the rate of change in the temperature of the washing water in the washing tank over a predetermined period of time during the washing process of the object to be washed. A dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A step of detecting the amount of material to be cleaned contained in the cleaning tank, The steps include washing the object to be washed with washing water containing an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of the object to be washed, A cleaning method comprising the following features.

6. Prior to the step of detecting the amount of the object to be cleaned, the step of washing the object to be cleaned with washing water containing a predetermined amount of detergent, After the step of detecting the amount of the object to be cleaned, the step of deciding whether or not to supply more detergent to the cleaning tank according to the amount of the object to be cleaned, The cleaning method according to claim 5, comprising:

7. The step of washing the object to be washed with washing water containing the predetermined amount of detergent includes the step of heating the washing water. In the step of detecting the amount of the object to be washed, the amount of the object to be washed is detected based on the rate of change in the temperature of the washing water. The cleaning method according to claim 6.

8. A control program for controlling a dishwasher, On the computer, A step of detecting the amount of material to be cleaned contained in the cleaning tank, The steps include washing the object to be washed with washing water containing an amount of detergent corresponding to the amount of the object to be washed, A control program to execute the program.

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