dishwasher

Abstract

To improve the convenience of dishwashers. [Solution] The dishwasher comprises a housing, a washing tank provided inside the housing for accommodating items to be washed, a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank, a detergent tank storage section for flexibly storing the detergent tank, and a magnetic sensor 41 which is a detection unit for detecting whether or not the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage section. Floating material that floats in the liquid detergent is provided inside the detergent tank, and the floating material includes a magnetic material. The detection unit can detect whether or not the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage section by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic material, and can further detect the liquid level in the detergent tank by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher for washing items to be washed.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a built-in dishwasher used in a built-in state in a system kitchen mainly has a configuration in which a washing tub having a door portion that can be opened and closed forward is fixed in a housing.

[0003] However, in recent years, a dishwasher that has a washing tub with an opening at the top, pulls out the washing tub from the housing to accommodate and wash dishes has become mainstream (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] The dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a washing tub having an opening at the top for accommodating dishes, a housing that supports the washing tub so that it can be moved back and forth freely, a detergent inlet provided outside the washing tub for injecting detergent into the washing tub, and an injection path that connects the detergent inlet and the washing tub. Then, the detergent is injected from a detergent inlet provided at a location independent of the washing tub. Thereby, the detergent can be surely injected regardless of the size and shape of the dishes placed in the washing tub.

[0005] [[ID=2 forty]]Also, a dishwasher having a detergent storage container in the washing tub is disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

[0006] The dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 2 has a detergent storage container that is detachably or integrally attached to the inner wall of the washing tub. The detergent storage container is attached at substantially the same height as, or above, a water supply port for washing water provided on the inner wall of the washing tub. Thereby, before starting the washing of dishes or the like, it is possible to prevent the detergent from spilling, flowing out, or solidifying, and effective washing of dishes or the like is made possible.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-135650 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2000-225087 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] However, in the dishwasher configuration described in Patent Document 1, when detergent is poured in from the top opening, the detergent simply flows into the washing tub. In other words, conventional dishwashers cannot store detergent. Therefore, when using the dishwasher, the user must add the necessary amount of detergent to the washing tub each time.

[0009] Therefore, as disclosed in Patent Document 2, it is conceivable to detachably attach a detergent container to the washing tank. However, the inventors recognized the problem that washing may be started with the detergent container removed.

[0010] This disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems and improve the convenience of cleaning equipment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The dishwasher in this disclosure comprises a housing, a washing tank provided within the housing for containing items to be washed, a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank, a detergent tank storage section for movably storing the detergent tank, and a detection unit for detecting whether or not the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage section. A floating material that floats in the liquid detergent is provided in the detergent tank, and the floating material includes a magnetic material. The detection unit can detect whether or not the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage section by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic material, and can also detect the liquid level in the detergent tank by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic material.

[0012] 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]

[0013] According to this disclosure, the convenience of the cleaning device can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a schematic side view of the dishwasher in Embodiment 1 with the washing tank pulled out from the housing. [Figure 2] This is a schematic front view of a dishwasher showing the detergent tank in either the retracted or pulled-out position. [Figure 3] This is a schematic front view of a dishwasher showing the detergent tank in its retracted position. [Figure 4] This is a schematic side view of a dishwasher relating to another example of the first embodiment, in which the washing tank is pulled out from the housing. [Figure 5] This is a schematic front view of the dishwasher in the state with the detergent tank housed, according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 6] This is a schematic side view of the dishwasher in Embodiment 2 with the washing tank pulled out from the housing. [Figure 7] This is a schematic side view of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 8] This is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 9] This is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 10] This is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 11] This is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 12] This is a magnified view showing the detergent tank stored in the detergent tank compartment. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a detergent tank. [Figure 14] This is a diagram schematically showing a cross-section of the detergent tank. [Figure 15] This is a diagram showing the lower surface of the cover of the detergent tank. [Figure 16] This is a diagram schematically showing the relationship between the arm and the rotating shaft. [Figure 17] This is a diagram schematically showing a cross-section of the arm and the rotating shaft. [Figure 18] This is a diagram showing the configuration of a control device for controlling the dishwasher according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] This is a diagram showing the viscosity of the liquid detergent measured by a rotational viscometer. [Figure 20] This is a flowchart showing the procedure of the control method of the dishwasher according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] This is a flowchart showing the procedure of the control method of the dishwasher according to the embodiment. [Figure 22] This is a diagram schematically showing another example of the detergent tank. [Figure 23] This is a diagram schematically showing a cross-section of the foreign object capturing part. [Figure 24] This is a diagram schematically showing a state where the foreign object capturing part is attached to the detergent discharge port. [Figure 25] This is a diagram schematically showing a cross-section when the detergent tank is housed in the detergent tank housing part.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, the schematic configuration of the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of the dishwasher with the washing tub 1 pulled out from the housing 2 in Embodiment 1. Specifically, FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of the washing tub 1 of the dishwasher pulled out from the housing 2 of the dishwasher.

[0017] Furthermore, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 is a built-in type dishwasher that is installed in, for example, a system kitchen.

[0018] In Embodiment 1, as shown in the figure, the forward direction is the direction in which the door body 3 and washing tank 1 are pulled out, and the rear direction is the direction in which the washing tank 1 is stored and the door body 3 is closed. Furthermore, the side with the opening 1a of the washing tank 1 of the dishwasher will be considered upward, the opposite side downward, and the right side of the door body 3, viewed from the front, will be considered right, and the left side will be considered left.

[0019] As shown in Figure 1, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 includes a housing 2, a washing tank 1, side walls 12, a detergent tank 15, a control device 19, and a door 3 that opens and closes the opening of the housing 2, etc., all of which are located inside the housing 2.

[0020] The washing tank 1 has an opening 1a at the top, and a basket 7 for holding tableware 8 is placed inside. The washing tank 1 is equipped with a first rail 5 fixed to the bottom. On the other hand, the housing 2 is equipped with a second rail 6 fixed to the inside surface. The first rail 5 is movably supported by the second rail 6 of the housing 2. As a result, the washing tank 1 is supported so that it can be moved in and out of the housing 2 in the front-to-back direction (left-to-right direction on the plane of the paper in Figure 1).

[0021] The dishwasher has a flat section 23 located in front of the opening 1a, which is the upper front outer part of the washing tub 1. An operation unit 24 and a display unit 25 are arranged on the flat section 23. The operation unit 24 allows the user to set the dishwasher's washing course, power on, and off. The display unit 25 displays the washing status, operating status, time, etc. An operation display board (not shown) that controls the operation of the operation unit 24 and display unit 25 is located on the back side of the flat section 23.

[0022] The side walls 12 are positioned on both sides between the washing tank 1 and the door body 3. The side walls 12 connect the washing tank 1 and the door body 3 so that they can move integrally. At this time, the dishwasher has a front space 13 that is formed by partitioning the front side of the washing tank 1, the rear side of the door body 3, the side walls 12 and the flat surface 23.

[0023] The door body 3 is equipped with a handle 4 that is positioned at the top and protrudes forward. The handle 4 is used by the user to grasp and insert or remove the washing tank 1 from the housing 2.

[0024] Furthermore, in the dishwasher of Embodiment 1, washing water for washing dishes in the washing tank 1 is supplied via the following route. Specifically, first, washing water such as tap water is supplied from a branch faucet on a system kitchen (not shown) to a water supply route such as a water supply hose. The supplied washing water then passes through the water supply route and is supplied to the washing tank 1 to the required water level and amount by a water supply pump and water supply valve (not shown). The washing tank 1 is supplied with water via the route configured as described above.

[0025] A circulation pump 9 is positioned on the lower outside of the washing tank 1. The circulation pump 9 circulates the washing water supplied to the washing tank 1 through a circulation path and sprays the washing water from the washing nozzle 11. The system is configured to allow the washing of dishes 8 with the sprayed washing water. A heater 10 for heating the washing water is also positioned near the bottom of the washing tank 1.

[0026] Furthermore, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 is equipped with a drainage path for draining the washing water from the washing tank 1. The drainage path consists of a drain pump and a drain hose (not shown). When the washing and rinsing of the dishes 8 is finished, the drain pump is activated, and the washing water is drained to the outside via the drain hose. In other words, the drainage path is configured to allow the washing water in the washing tank 1 to be drained into a kitchen sink or the like.

[0027] A detergent tank storage section 14 is located in the front space 13, which is the outer front of the washing tank 1, and in which the detergent tank 15 is swivelably housed. The detergent tank storage section 14 is formed by welding, screwing, or integrally molding with the side wall 12 to one side of the side wall 12. Alternatively, the detergent tank storage section 14 may be provided on the front of the washing tank 1.

[0028] As described above, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 is configured as described.

[0029] Next, the configuration around the dishwasher's detergent tank 15 will be explained with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0030] Figure 2 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the detergent tank 15 in the process of being stored or pulled out. Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the detergent tank 15 in the stored position.

[0031] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the detergent tank storage section 14 has a hollow space. This allows the detergent tank 15 to be easily moved in and out of the space in the detergent tank storage section 14. When viewed from the front (the front side of the door body 3), the detergent tank 15 can be easily moved in and out, for example, in the left-right direction (to the side).

[0032] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the detergent tank storage section 14 is located approximately below (including below) the flat section 23 (operation section 24 or display section 25), for example, on the right side from the central part of the washing tank 1, and houses the detergent tank 15.

[0033] Note that while Figures 2 and 3 illustrate an example configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out to the right from the detergent tank storage section 14, the system is not limited to this configuration. For example, the detergent tank storage section 14 and the detergent tank 15 may be arranged in opposite positions, symmetrically to those in Figures 2 and 3. In this case, a configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out to the left from the detergent tank storage section 14 is preferable.

[0034] With the above configuration, the detergent tank 15 is not conspicuous when the washing tub 1 is completely housed in the casing 2. Therefore, the dishwasher can be designed with a simple design. Furthermore, the space (front space 13) for housing the detergent tank 15 on the outside front of the washing tub 1 can be effectively utilized.

[0035] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the detergent tank 15 is configured to be freely inserted and removed from the detergent tank storage section 14 in the left-right direction when the washing tank 1 is pulled out forward by at least a distance a (dotted arrow in Figure 1). Distance a represents the shortest distance between the mating surface between the back of the door body 3 and the frontmost part of the housing 2 and the washing tank 1 side surface of the detergent tank storage section 14. In other words, distance a represents the state in which at least the entire detergent tank storage section 14 is pulled out forward from the frontmost part of the housing 2.

[0036] With the above configuration, the detergent tank 15 can only be inserted into or removed when the washing tank 1 is pulled out forward by a predetermined distance (distance a) or more. Therefore, the user can easily insert and remove the detergent tank 15 by utilizing the space in front of the washing tank 1 that houses the detergent tank 15 and the lateral space when the washing tank 1 is pulled out from the housing 2. Note that distance a is not particularly limited as long as it is the distance that the detergent tank 15 can be inserted into or removed in the left-right direction.

[0037] Furthermore, as described above, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 has an operating unit 24 located on the upper front outside of the washing tub 1, which allows the user to set the washing course, turn the power on and off, etc. This allows the user to operate the operating unit 24 with one hand, for example, from the front and above the washing tub 1. At the same time, the user can insert and remove the detergent tank 15 in the left and right directions with the other hand. As a result, the user's work efficiency can be improved.

[0038] Furthermore, the detergent tank 15 is composed of a container, such as a bottle, that can store liquid detergent. Specifically, the detergent tank 15 consists of a detergent tank detergent outlet 15c, a detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, and a detergent container lid 15e, etc.

[0039] The detergent tank's detergent discharge port 15c, detergent tank's detergent suction path 15d, and detergent container lid 15e are integrally formed and detachably mounted from the detergent tank 15. Therefore, when the detergent container lid 15e is removed from the detergent tank 15, the integrally formed detergent tank's detergent discharge port 15c and detergent tank's detergent suction path 15d can also be removed from the detergent tank 15 at the same time. The tip of the detergent tank's detergent suction path 15d, which sucks up liquid detergent, extends to near the bottom of the detergent tank 15. This allows for suction until almost all of the liquid detergent is gone from the detergent tank 15. As a result, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 can be used efficiently and without waste.

[0040] Furthermore, when refilling the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent, the user first removes the detergent tank 15 from the detergent tank storage section 14. Then, the user removes the detergent dispenser lid 15e from the detergent tank 15. This allows the user to easily refill the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent.

[0041] As described above, the configuration of the detergent tank 15 allows liquid detergent to be supplied to and stored in the detergent tank 15 outside the washing tank 1. Therefore, solidification of the detergent in the detergent tank 15 due to humidity and dryness inside the washing tank 1 during washing can be suppressed. In addition, the volume of the washing tank 1 can be increased by eliminating the need for the detergent tank 15. Furthermore, the user can easily attach and detach the detergent tank 15. In other words, conventionally, control boards such as the operation unit and display unit were placed between the washing tank and the door, and the space other than the boards was dead space. In this embodiment, the detergent tank 15 is placed in the dead space, side by side with the boards in the left-right direction. This effectively utilizes the dead space, and by eliminating the need for the detergent tank 15 inside the washing tank 1, the volume of the washing tank 1 can be increased compared to conventional washing tanks.

[0042] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the detergent discharge port 15c of the detergent tank 15 has a protrusion 15f that protrudes convexly to the left from the detergent container lid 15e. On the other hand, the detergent tank storage section 14 has a recess 14c into which the protrusion 15f of the detergent discharge port 15c engages. The recess 14c of the detergent tank storage section 14 engages with the protrusion 15f of the detergent container lid 15e. This completes the storage of the detergent tank 15 into the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0043] Then, when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14 by the fitting of the recess 14c and the protrusion 15f, a path is formed for transferring liquid detergent from the detergent tank's detergent discharge port 15c to the detergent discharge path 14b on the detergent tank storage section side. Furthermore, the fitting of the protrusion 15f and the recess 14c enables stable storage of the detergent tank 15 inside the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0044] Furthermore, the detergent tank storage section 14 is equipped with a detergent discharge port 14a located in the recess 14c. One end of the detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path 14b is positioned and connected to the detergent tank storage section detergent discharge port 14a. On the other hand, the other end of the detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path 14b is connected to a detergent pump 16. In addition, the washing tank side detergent discharge path 18 is connected between the detergent pump 16 and the washing tank detergent discharge port 17 (see Figure 1) located on the front of the washing tank 1. In other words, the detergent pump 16 is positioned in the middle of the detergent input path, which is between the other end of the detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path 14b and the washing tank side detergent discharge path 18.

[0045] As described above, the detergent tank 15 has a detergent discharge port 15c that discharges liquid detergent into the detergent discharge path 14b on the detergent tank storage side. The detergent discharge path 14b on the detergent tank storage side is connected to the detergent tank storage 14. In other words, when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage 14, the detergent discharge port 15c is configured to be connected to the detergent discharge path 14b on the detergent tank storage side.

[0046] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the control device 19 is positioned below the front of the washing tank 1. The control device 19 controls the operation of, for example, the circulation pump 9, the drain pump, the water supply pump (water supply valve), and the detergent pump 16.

[0047] Specifically, the control device 19 controls the drive rotation speed and drive time of the detergent pump 16. This ensures that the required amount of liquid detergent is drawn from the detergent tank 15 when washing dishes 8, etc. The drawn liquid detergent is supplied into the washing tank 1 by sequentially passing through the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c, the detergent tank storage unit detergent discharge port 14a, the detergent tank storage unit side detergent discharge path 14b, the detergent pump 16, the washing tank side detergent discharge path 18, and the washing tank detergent discharge port 17. In other words, the system is configured to transfer and supply the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 1.

[0048] As described above, the area around the detergent tank 15 of the dishwasher is configured, and liquid detergent is supplied into the washing tank 1.

[0049] The configuration of a dishwasher in another example of Embodiment 1 will be described below with reference to Figure 4.

[0050] Figure 4 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher according to another example of the first embodiment, showing the washing tank 1 pulled out from the housing 2.

[0051] As shown in Figure 4, another example of a dishwasher has a transparent section 15a provided on at least a portion of the side of the detergent tank 15. The transparent section 15a allows the user to visually check the remaining amount of liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14. The transparent section 15a further has a scale 15b indicating the amount of liquid detergent. As a result, even when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14, the user can visually check the amount of detergent in the detergent tank 15 from the side through the transparent section 15a. Therefore, the user can visually estimate how much liquid detergent is being used and when it is time to refill it. As a result, the user can easily pull out the detergent tank 15 and refill the liquid detergent at the appropriate time.

[0052] (Embodiment 2) The following describes the general configuration of the dishwasher according to Embodiment 2, with reference to Figures 5 and 6.

[0053] Figure 5 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher in the state with the detergent tank 15 housed, according to Embodiment 2. Figure 6 is a schematic side view of the dishwasher in the state with the washing tub 1 pulled out from the housing 2, according to Embodiment 2.

[0054] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the dishwasher of Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in the arrangement of the operation unit 24 and the display unit 25, and the configuration of the handle 4. Since the other configurations are the same as those of Embodiment 1, a description of the redundant configurations will be omitted.

[0055] In other words, as shown in Figure 5, in the dishwasher of Embodiment 2, the control unit 24 and the display unit 25 are located on the upper front of the door body 3. The handle 4 is formed in a shape that is recessed inward toward the door body 3. Similar to Embodiment 1, the control unit 24 allows the user to set the washing course and turn the power on or off. The display unit 25 displays the washing status, operating status, time, etc.

[0056] In Embodiment 2, the operating unit 24 and display unit 25 are located on the upper front outside of the washing tank 1, on the front side of the door body 3. This allows the user to operate the operating unit 24 from the front and above of the washing tank 1, and simultaneously, for example, insert and remove the detergent tank 15 from the left and right sides of the detergent tank storage unit 14.

[0057] As shown in Figure 6, either the operation unit 24 or the display unit 25 may be placed on the flat surface 23, similar to Embodiment 1, and the other of the display unit 25 or the operation unit 24 may be placed on the upper front surface of the door body 3.

[0058] Furthermore, the contents of Embodiment 1 and the contents of Embodiment 2 may be freely combined within the scope described to configure a dishwasher. This increases the degree of design freedom and versatility.

[0059] (Embodiment 3) Figure 7 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. The dishwasher according to Embodiment 3 differs from Embodiments 1 and 2 in the configuration of the detergent tank storage section and the detergent tank itself. Other configurations and operations are the same as those of Embodiments 1 or 2. The differences from Embodiments 1 and 2 will be mainly described below.

[0060] To suppress waves generated in the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 when the detergent tank 30 is inserted into or removed from the washing tank 1 or housing 2, a float 34, which is an example of a floating body that floats in the liquid detergent, is provided inside the detergent tank 30. The float 34 is pivotally supported by a pivot shaft provided on the lid of the detergent tank 30 via an arm 33. A magnetic material 35 is provided on the float 34.

[0061] The detergent tank 30 is removably stored in the detergent tank storage section 40. When washing is started with the detergent tank 30 stored in the detergent tank storage section 40, an appropriate amount of liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is drawn out by the detergent pump 16 and supplied into the washing tank 1 via the detergent discharge path 43 on the detergent tank storage section side and the detergent discharge path 18 on the washing tank side.

[0062] A magnetic sensor 41 is provided on the side of the detergent tank storage section 40 to detect the magnetism of the magnetic material 35. When the magnetic sensor 41 detects the magnetism of the magnetic material 35, it is detected that the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 40.

[0063] Figures 8 to 11 are schematic front views of a dishwasher according to Embodiment 3. Figure 8 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. Figure 9 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 40 when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. Figure 10 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. Figure 11 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 40 when liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30.

[0064] The float 34 is pivotally supported via an arm 33 on a pivot shaft 32 provided on a cover 31 that covers the opening of the detergent tank 30. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30, the float 34 and arm 33 hang vertically downward due to their own weight. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, the float 34 rises according to the liquid level of the detergent, and the arm 33 rotates upward around the pivot shaft 32. The liquid level of the detergent in the detergent tank 30 can be detected by detecting the position of the magnetic body 35 using the magnetic sensor 41. Also, as shown in Figures 9 and 11, when the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 40, the magnetic sensor 41 does not detect the magnetism of the magnetic body 35, so it is possible to detect that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 40.

[0065] The magnetic sensor 41 may be, for example, a plurality of Hall elements placed near the positions of the magnetic material 35 corresponding to multiple liquid levels of liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30. This allows for more accurate detection of the liquid level of the liquid detergent. The magnetic sensor 41 may also be a sensor capable of detecting the magnetism of the magnetic material 35 in any way, such as a magnetoresistive element or a magnetoimpedance element.

[0066] The magnetic sensor 41 may be provided on the side of the detergent tank storage section 40 that is furthest from the control device 50. This reduces the influence of the magnetic field generated in the electrical circuit of the control device 50, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the magnetic sensor 41.

[0067] A detergent outlet 37 is provided at the lowest end of the side of the detergent tank 30 on the far side in the direction of insertion and removal. A detergent inlet 42 is provided in the detergent tank storage section 40 at a position where the detergent outlet 37 of the detergent tank 30 contacts when the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 40. When the detergent pump 16 operates, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 is supplied into the washing tank 1 via the detergent outlet 37, the detergent inlet 42, the detergent discharge path 43 on the detergent tank storage section side, and the detergent discharge path 18 on the washing tank side. The inner bottom surface 36 of the detergent tank 30 is sloped downwards toward the detergent outlet 37.

[0068] Figure 12 is a partially enlarged view showing the detergent tank 30 housed in the detergent tank storage section 40. Figure 12(a) is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 30 and the detergent tank storage section 40 when the liquid detergent level in the detergent tank 30 is low. Figure 12(b) is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 30 and the detergent tank storage section 40 when the liquid detergent level in the detergent tank 30 is high. The liquid detergent level can be detected by detecting the position of the magnetic material 35 using the magnetic sensor 41.

[0069] Figure 13 schematically shows a cross-section of the detergent tank 30. When liquid detergent 38 is stored in the detergent tank 30, if the washing tank 1 is pulled out from the housing 2 or the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 40, waves are generated in the liquid detergent 38. In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a float 34 made of a floating material is provided in the liquid detergent 38 to cancel out these waves. Experiments by the inventors have shown that the float 34 floats on the surface of the liquid detergent 38 and cancels out the waves, thereby suppressing the waves generated in the liquid detergent 38 compared to when the float 34 is not provided. As a result, when using the dishwasher or when refilling the detergent tank 30 with liquid detergent, it is possible to prevent the liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 30 or adhering to and solidifying on surrounding components.

[0070] The float 34 may be formed from a thermoplastic resin, metal, or the like. If the float 34 is made of metal, a cavity may be provided inside so that the float 34 floats in the liquid detergent. The float 34 and the arm 33 may be formed integrally, or they may be formed separately and joined together. The arm 33 may be detachably pivoted on a pivot shaft 32 provided on the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30. In this case, the user can remove the arm 33 and float 34 from the cover 31 for washing. The arm 33 may be formed integrally with the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30.

[0071] Figure 14 schematically shows a cross-section of the detergent tank 30. The cover 31 of the detergent tank 30 is provided with an atmospheric vent 39 that communicates with the outside. Since the cover 31 is provided to cover the opening of the detergent tank 30 airtight and liquid-tight, when liquid detergent 38 is discharged from the detergent tank 30, the inside of the detergent tank 30 may become negatively pressurized, which may prevent the liquid detergent 38 from being discharged smoothly. By providing the atmospheric vent 39, outside air can be allowed to flow into the detergent tank 30 through the atmospheric vent 39 when liquid detergent 38 is discharged from the detergent tank 30, thereby preventing the inside of the detergent tank 30 from becoming negatively pressurized. This improves the reliability of the amount of liquid detergent 38 supplied from the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1.

[0072] If liquid detergent 38 adheres to and solidifies on the air vent 39, the air vent 39 may become blocked, reducing its ability to draw outside air into the detergent tank 30, and potentially preventing the supply of an appropriate amount of liquid detergent 38 from the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1. To solve this problem, in the dishwasher of this embodiment, the air vent 39 is provided above the range of movement of the float 34 on the cover 31. As a result, even when the liquid level of liquid detergent 38 in the detergent tank 30 is high and the liquid detergent 38 is likely to splash from the liquid surface onto the air vent 39, the float 34 rises to the liquid surface directly below the air vent 39, canceling out the waves of liquid detergent 38, thus preventing the liquid detergent 38 from coming into contact with the air vent 39.

[0073] Figure 15 shows the lower surface of the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30. Figure 15(a) is a lower view of the cover 31. Figure 15(b) is a perspective view of the lower surface of the cover 31. Figure 15(c) is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the atmospheric vent 39. In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a projection 39a is provided near the atmospheric vent 39, projecting from the lower surface of the cover 31 toward the interior of the detergent tank 30. The projection 39a functions as a wall to protect against liquid detergent 38 splashing from the liquid surface coming into contact with the atmospheric vent 39. This further reduces the amount of liquid detergent 38 that comes into contact with the atmospheric vent 39. The projection 39a may be formed integrally with the cover 31, or it may be formed separately from the cover 31 and attached to the cover 31.

[0074] The protrusion 39a is provided such that when the float 34 is moving upward, at least a portion of the float 34 or the arm 33 is close to or in contact with the protrusion 39a. When the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 in the detergent tank 30 is high, there is a higher chance that the liquid detergent 38 will come into contact with the atmospheric vent 39. However, as the float 34 rises to the surface of the liquid detergent 38, the gap between the float 34 or the arm 33 and the protrusion 39a narrows, reducing the possibility that the liquid detergent 38 will seep through the gap and come into contact with the atmospheric vent 39. The protrusion 39a may also be provided such that at least a portion of other members that move with the float 34 when the float 34 moves upward is close to or in contact with the protrusion 39a.

[0075] The protruding portion 39a has a shape that surrounds the atmospheric vent 39, and a notch 39b is provided in a part of it. This prevents a film from forming at the opening of the protruding portion 39a when the liquid detergent 38 comes into contact with the protruding portion 39a, thereby preventing the atmospheric vent 39 from being blocked by the film.

[0076] In this embodiment of the dishwasher, the washing tank 1 is provided to be removable from the housing 2. Therefore, each time the washing tank 1 is moved in and out of the housing 2 to load or unload dishes or other items to be washed, the liquid detergent 38 sloshes in the direction of insertion and removal of the washing tank 1, creating waves. Accordingly, the notch 39b may be provided in a direction different from the direction of insertion and removal of the washing tank 1. This prevents the liquid detergent 38 from entering the interior of the protrusion 39a through the notch 39b and coming into contact with the air vent 39 due to the waves of liquid detergent 38 generated when the washing tank 1 is moved in and out.

[0077] In this embodiment of the dishwasher, the detergent tank 30 is provided to be removable from the detergent tank storage section 40. Therefore, each time the detergent tank 30 is removed from the detergent tank storage section 40 to refill the liquid detergent, the liquid detergent 38 sways in the direction of removal from the detergent tank 30, creating waves. Accordingly, the notch 39b may be provided in a direction different from the direction of removal from the detergent tank 30. This prevents the liquid detergent 38 from entering the interior of the protruding part 39a through the notch 39b and coming into contact with the air vent 39 due to the waves of liquid detergent 38 generated when the detergent tank 30 is removed from the detergent tank 30.

[0078] The notch 39b may be provided on the side of the pivot shaft 32 to which the arm 33 is pivotally supported. When the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 is high, the float 34 rises to the liquid surface, causing the arm 33 to move upward, so the space between the protrusion 39a and the pivot shaft 32 is separated from the liquid detergent 38 by the protrusion 39a, the pivot shaft 32, and the arm 33. This prevents the liquid detergent 38 from entering the interior of the protrusion 39a from the notch 39b and coming into contact with the atmospheric vent 39.

[0079] Figure 16 schematically shows the relationship between the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32. The pivot shaft 32 has a cylindrical shape. The arm 33 has a fitting portion 33a at its upper end that fits onto the cylindrical pivot shaft 32. The fitting portion 33a has a cylindrical shape in which a certain angular range on its side is cut out in the axial direction. By providing the cutout portion 33b, the arm 33 can be removed from the pivot shaft 32 for cleaning, thus preventing liquid detergent from adhering and solidifying between the fitting portion 33a and the pivot shaft 32, which would cause the float 34 to malfunction. In addition, the inside of the detergent tank 30 can be kept clean. When manufacturing the dishwasher, the arm 33 can be easily attached to the pivot shaft 32, which can reduce manufacturing costs.

[0080] While a method that moves a float along a vertically positioned guide can also detect the liquid level of a liquid detergent and potentially provide a wave-damping effect, using a highly viscous liquid detergent increases the sliding resistance between the guide and the float, potentially making it difficult for the float to follow fluctuations in the liquid level. Furthermore, when the liquid detergent level drops, the detergent adhering between the guide and the float may solidify, preventing the float from moving. Additionally, if the detergent tank is shallow, the float's range of motion is limited, making precise detection of the liquid level difficult. According to the configuration of this embodiment, the arm 33 is supported by a pivot shaft 32 positioned above the liquid surface of the detergent, and the float 34 is rotated according to the liquid level. This reduces the possibility of the float 34 becoming immobile due to solidification of the liquid detergent between the pivot shaft 32 and the arm 33. Moreover, since the float 34 displaces both horizontally and vertically according to the liquid level, the liquid level can be detected more accurately.

[0081] Figure 17 schematically shows a cross-section of the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32. Figure 17(a) shows a cross-section of the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32 when the liquid detergent level is at its highest. Figure 17(b) shows a cross-section of the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32 when the liquid detergent is empty. The notch 33b is configured to face upwards above the horizontal direction when the arm 33 rotates around the pivot shaft 32 in accordance with the liquid level across the entire range of liquid detergent levels. This further reduces the possibility that liquid detergent splashing from the liquid surface will seep from the notch 33b between the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32 and solidify.

[0082] In this embodiment of the dishwasher, a pivot shaft 32 is provided parallel to the direction in which the washing tub 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2, and a float 34 is configured to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the washing tub 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2. As a result, when inserting and removing the washing tub 1 from the housing 2, the waves generated in the insertion / removal direction can be effectively canceled out by the float 34, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmospheric vent 39, the pivot shaft 32, the fitting portion 33a of the arm 33, etc. Similarly, when inserting and removing the detergent tank 30 from the detergent tank storage section 40, the waves generated in the insertion / removal direction can be canceled out by the float 34, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmospheric vent 39, the pivot shaft 32, the fitting portion 33a of the arm 33, etc.

[0083] In another example, a pivot shaft 32 may be provided parallel to the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 40, and the float 34 may be configured to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 40. This allows the float 34 to effectively cancel out waves generated in the insertion / removal direction when the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 40, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmospheric vent 39, pivot shaft 32, and fitting portion 33a of the arm 33, as well as preventing liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 30 when the user refills it. Similarly, when the washing tank 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2, the float 34 can cancel out waves generated in the insertion / removal direction, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmospheric vent 39, pivot shaft 32, and fitting portion 33a of the arm 33.

[0084] Figure 18 shows the configuration of a control device for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment. The control device 50 is implemented by hardware such as a microcomputer, microcontroller, and integrated circuit.

[0085] The control device 50 includes a process control unit 51, a detection result acquisition unit 52, a liquid level determination unit 53, a detergent tank storage determination unit 54, a liquid delivery control unit 55, a notification unit 56, a standing time acquisition unit 57, a liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58, and a memory 59. 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 the 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.

[0086] The process control unit 51 controls the washing operation of the dishwasher. The process control unit 51 receives instructions from the user via the operation unit 24 of the dishwasher and controls the washing operation according to the instructions. The process control unit 51 may execute the washing, rinsing, and drying processes in sequence, execute only one of the processes, or execute any combination of two or more processes in any order.

[0087] The detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires the detection result from the magnetic sensor 41. As described above, the magnetic sensor 41 detects the magnetism of the magnetic material 35 provided on the float 34.

[0088] The liquid level determination unit 53 determines the liquid level of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 based on the detection results obtained by the detection result acquisition unit 52. The liquid level determination unit 53 may, for example, determine the position of the magnetic body 35 based on the magnetism detected by a plurality of Hall elements installed at different positions, and then determine the liquid level of the liquid detergent based on the determined position of the magnetic body 35.

[0089] The detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines whether or not the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 based on the detection result obtained by the detection result acquisition unit 52. The detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 if the detection result obtained by the detection result acquisition unit 52 indicates that the magnetic sensor 41 has detected the magnetism of the magnetic material 35. The detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 if the detection result obtained by the detection result acquisition unit 52 indicates that the magnetic sensor 41 has not detected the magnetism of the magnetic material 35.

[0090] The liquid supply control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to supply the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1. As will be described later, the liquid supply control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 so that the amount of liquid detergent determined by the liquid supply target amount determination unit 58 is supplied to the washing tank 1. When the supply of the amount of liquid detergent determined by the liquid supply target amount determination unit 58 is completed, the liquid supply control unit 55 records the completion time of the liquid supply in the memory 59.

[0091] If the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, the liquid supply control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to prevent liquid detergent from being supplied from the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1. This prevents the washing process from being executed without detergent being supplied to the washing tank 1. It also prevents air from being introduced into the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1, which would prevent the target amount of detergent from being properly supplied to the washing tank 1 when washing is performed in subsequent cycles.

[0092] The notification unit 56 notifies the user if the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40. The notification unit 56 may notify the user by voice that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, or it may display this information on the display unit 25. This ensures that even if the user mistakenly starts washing without storing the detergent tank 30 in the detergent tank storage unit 40, the detergent tank 30 will be stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40.

[0093] The idle time acquisition unit 57 calculates the elapsed time since the last time liquid detergent was supplied to the washing tank 1 by the detergent pump 16, thereby acquiring the time that the detergent pump 16 and the liquid detergent flow path were left unused. The idle time acquisition unit 57 reads the last liquid supply end time from the memory 59 and calculates the elapsed time up to the current time. The idle time acquisition unit 57 may count the elapsed time from the last liquid supply end time using a counter circuit or the like. The idle time acquisition unit 57 may acquire information indicating the last liquid supply end time or idle time from an external server or the like.

[0094] Liquid detergent used in dishwashers thickens over time due to oxidation by oxygen in the air. Figure 19 shows the viscosity of liquid detergent measured using a rotational viscometer. The viscosity of the liquid detergent measured after 3 months of storage increased only slightly from the initial value, but the viscosity of the liquid detergent measured after 6 months of storage increased significantly from the initial value. Therefore, if a dishwasher is used again after being left unused for a long period of time, the liquid detergent remaining in the flow path including the detergent pump 16 may thicken or solidify, impairing the flow and potentially preventing the detergent pump 16 from supplying the specified amount of detergent to the washing tank 1.

[0095] Therefore, in this embodiment, if the standing time is longer than a predetermined threshold, the target amount of liquid detergent to be dispensed is increased beyond the specified amount, thereby increasing the operating time, number of operations, and operating voltage of the detergent pump 16 compared to normal. This compensates for the decrease in the amount of liquid dispensed due to the viscosity increase of the liquid detergent, so that an appropriate amount of liquid detergent can be supplied to the washing tank 1.

[0096] The liquid supply target amount determination unit 58 determines the target amount of liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tank 1. If the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition unit 57 is shorter than the first threshold, the liquid supply target amount determination unit 58 determines the target amount of liquid detergent to be supplied according to the operating mode of the washing process, the type of liquid detergent, the type and amount of the object to be washed, the water temperature, the ambient temperature, etc. If the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition unit 57 is longer than the first threshold, the liquid supply target amount determination unit 58 adds a predetermined amount to the normal liquid supply target amount determined as described above. The additional amount may be determined according to the standing time, the season of the standing period, the temperature, the humidity, etc. For example, the longer the standing time, and the lower the temperature or humidity during the standing period, the greater the degree of viscosity increase of the liquid detergent, so the additional amount may be increased.

[0097] The liquid delivery control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to deliver the target amount of liquid detergent determined by the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58. The liquid delivery control unit 55 determines the operating time, number of operating cycles, and operating voltage of the detergent pump 16 according to the target amount of liquid detergent, and controls the detergent pump 16 accordingly.

[0098] If the liquid detergent is left unused for a longer period than the first threshold, the liquid detergent delivery target amount determination unit 58 may increase the target amount of liquid detergent delivered compared to normal for only one delivery immediately afterward, for a predetermined number of deliveries, or until it is detected that the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 has been mostly used and the detergent tank 30 is almost empty. The choice of which of the above periods to adopt may be determined depending on the waiting time. For example, if the waiting time is relatively short, it is expected that the viscous liquid detergent remaining in the flow path will flow out into the washing tank 1 by delivering the liquid detergent once, so the target amount of liquid detergent delivered may be increased only for the first delivery immediately afterward. If the waiting time is relatively long, it is considered that several deliveries will be necessary for the viscous liquid detergent remaining in the flow path to flow out into the washing tank 1, so the target amount of liquid detergent delivered may be increased for a predetermined number of deliveries immediately afterward. If the waiting time is even longer, it is considered that the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 has also become viscous, so the target amount of liquid detergent delivered may be increased until the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 has been mostly used. Whether the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 has been mostly used may be determined based on the liquid level of the liquid detergent determined by the liquid level determination unit 53.

[0099] The liquid dispensing target amount determination unit 58 may determine the liquid dispensing target amount based on the elapsed time since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30. If the elapsed time since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30 is longer than a predetermined threshold, the liquid dispensing target amount determination unit 58 may increase the liquid dispensing target amount to compensate for the decrease in the amount of liquid dispensed due to the viscosity increase of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30. In this case, the time when the liquid level determination unit 53 determines that the liquid level of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 has reached full capacity is recorded in the memory 59, and the liquid dispensing target amount determination unit 58 may calculate the elapsed time by referring to the time recorded in the memory 59.

[0100] The liquid dispensing target amount determination unit 58 may determine the liquid dispensing target amount based on the liquid level of the liquid detergent determined by the liquid level determination unit 53. The liquid dispensing target amount determination unit 58 may determine that the amount of liquid detergent actually dispensed deviates significantly from the liquid dispensing target amount if the difference between the target liquid level (obtained by subtracting the cumulative liquid dispensing target amount from a first time point, for example, when the liquid level of the liquid detergent determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 is full, from the liquid level determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 at the first time point) and the actual liquid level determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 at the second time point is greater than a predetermined value, and may adjust the liquid dispensing target amount according to the difference between the target liquid level and the actual liquid level. For example, if the target liquid level is higher than the actual liquid level by a predetermined value or more, the liquid dispensing target amount may be increased. The liquid dispensing target amount used to calculate the difference between the target liquid level and the actual liquid level may be the value before it is increased by the liquid dispensing target amount determination unit 58.

[0101] The liquid supply control unit 55 may discard the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 if the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition unit 57 is longer than a second threshold, or if the elapsed time since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30 is longer than a predetermined threshold. In this case, the liquid supply control unit 55 may, after discharging all the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1, supply water into the washing tank 1 and discharge the liquid detergent along with the water. At this time, the notification unit 56 may notify the user that the liquid detergent will be discarded. This prevents the use of liquid detergent that has been stored in the detergent tank 30 for a long period of time and may have deteriorated due to oxidation or other reasons to clean the object to be cleaned.

[0102] Figure 20 is a flowchart showing the procedure for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment. The flowchart shown in Figure 20 shows the procedure before the washing process is started in the dishwasher. When the washing process is started by the process control unit 51 (S10), the detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires a detection result from the magnetic sensor 41, and the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines whether or not the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 based on the detection result (S12). If the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 (N in S12), the notification unit 56 notifies the user of this fact (S14), and the process returns to S12. If the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 (Y in S12), the process control unit 51 executes the washing process (S16).

[0103] Figure 21 is a flowchart showing the procedure for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment. The flowchart shown in Figure 21 shows the procedure for the washing process performed in the dishwasher. The resting time acquisition unit 57 reads the time when the previous liquid supply ended from the memory 59 (S20) and calculates the resting time (S21). If the resting time is greater than the second threshold t2 (Y in S22), the liquid supply control unit 55 sends all the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1 (S24), supplies water into the washing tank 1 and discharges it together with the liquid detergent (S26), and ends the washing process.

[0104] If the standing time is less than or equal to the second threshold t2 (N in S22), the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58 determines the normal liquid delivery target amount (S28). If the standing time is greater than the first threshold t1 (Y in S30), the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58 increases the liquid delivery target amount (S32). If the standing time is less than or equal to the first threshold t1 (N in S30), S32 is skipped and the liquid delivery target amount is not changed. The liquid delivery control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to deliver the target amount of liquid detergent to the washing tank 1 (S34), and when the liquid delivery is completed, it records the liquid delivery completion time in the memory 59 (S36). The process control unit 51 executes the washing process (S38).

[0105] Figure 22 schematically shows another example of the detergent tank 30. Figure 22(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the detergent tank 30, and Figure 22(b) is a schematic side view of the detergent tank 30 viewed from the rear side in the loading / unloading direction. A detergent discharge port 71 is provided at the lowest end of the rear side of the detergent tank 30 in the loading / unloading direction. The detergent discharge port 71 has a roughly cylindrical shape, and a foreign matter capturing section 70 for capturing foreign matter mixed into the detergent tank 30 is inserted into the internal cavity. An O-ring 72 is provided between the foreign matter capturing section 70 and the detergent discharge port 71. This ensures a liquid-tight seal between the foreign matter capturing section 70 and the detergent discharge port 71. The liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is discharged from a flow path 73 provided inside the foreign matter capturing section 70.

[0106] The inner end of the foreign matter capturing unit 70 in the detergent tank 30 has an outer diameter smaller than the inner opening of the detergent discharge port 71, while the outer end has an outer diameter larger than the outer opening of the detergent discharge port 71. Therefore, the foreign matter capturing unit 70 is detachably inserted into the detergent discharge port 71 from the outside of the detergent tank 30. Since the foreign matter capturing unit 70 is fixed to the detergent discharge port 71 only by the sliding resistance of the O-ring 72, the user can easily remove the foreign matter capturing unit 70 by simply pushing it out from the inside to the outside of the detergent tank 30, as shown by the arrow in Figure 22(a). Furthermore, the foreign matter capturing unit 70 can be easily attached by simply pushing it into the detergent discharge port 71 from the outside of the detergent tank 30. This allows the foreign matter capturing unit 70 to be easily attached and detached, and the detergent discharge port 71 and its surroundings to be washed away, thus making it easy to remove foreign matter captured by the foreign matter capturing unit 70.

[0107] Figure 23 schematically shows a cross-section of the foreign matter trapping section 70. The foreign matter trapping section 70 comprises a cover 76 having a substantially cylindrical shape, a throttling section 74 connected to the end of the cover 76, and a valve body 80 provided in a cavity inside the cover 76. A groove 78 is provided in the center of the cover 76, and an O-ring 72 is provided on the outside of the groove 78. A throttling section opening 75 is provided near the connection point of the throttling section 74 to the cover 76, and a cover opening 77 is provided near the connection point of the cover 76 to the throttling section 74. Liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 flows into the interior of the cover 76 through the throttling section opening 75 and the cover opening 77. The valve body 80 is biased to the left in the figure by a biasing spring 81. At this time, the valve body 80 is pressed against the inside of the groove 78, and the space between the valve body 80 and the cover 76 is liquid-tightly sealed by the sealing member 82, so that the liquid detergent does not flow out into the flow path 73.

[0108] Figure 24 schematically shows the foreign matter trapping unit 70 attached to the detergent discharge port 71. Figure 24(a) shows a cross-section of the foreign matter trapping unit 70 when attached to the detergent discharge port. Figure 24(b) is a magnified view of a part of the rectangular portion of Figure 24(a). Figure 24(c) is a side view of the foreign matter trapping unit 70 as seen from inside the detergent tank 30. Figure 24(d) is a side view of another example of the throttling portion 74 of the foreign matter trapping unit 70. Figure 24 shows the valve body 80 in the open state, but the opening and closing of the valve body 80 will be described later.

[0109] When the foreign matter capture unit 70 is attached to the detergent discharge port 71, the gap d between the outside of the body of the foreign matter capture unit 70 and the inside opening of the detergent discharge port 71 is configured to be smaller than the inner diameter of the liquid detergent flow path from the throttling opening 75 to the washing tank 1. The liquid detergent flow path from the throttling opening 75 to the washing tank 1 includes the cover opening 77, the flow path between the valve body 80 and the cover 76 when the valve body 80 is open, the flow path 73, the outside opening of the detergent discharge port 71, the detergent discharge path 43 on the detergent tank storage side, the flow path inside the detergent pump 16, the detergent discharge path 18 on the washing tank side, and the washing tank detergent discharge port 17. When liquid detergent is delivered from the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1 by the detergent pump 16, foreign matter larger than the gap d in the detergent tank 30 cannot pass through the gap d and remains in the detergent tank 30. Foreign matter smaller than the gap d that can pass through the gap d flows to the washing tank 1 without getting clogged in the flow path along the way. This prevents foreign matter from clogging the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent outlet 71 to the washing tank 1. Foreign matter that remains in the detergent tank 30 without passing through the gap d can be easily washed away by removing the foreign matter capturing unit 70.

[0110] In the example shown in Figure 24(c), the liquid detergent flows into the foreign matter trapping section 70 only through the concentric, annular gap d and is discharged from the detergent outlet 71. The gap d functions as a foreign matter trapping channel for trapping foreign matter in the detergent tank 30.

[0111] In the example shown in Figure 24(d), liquid detergent can flow into the foreign matter capture unit 70 not only through the gap d but also through the hole 83 provided in the constriction unit 74. The diameter of the hole 83 is also configured to be smaller than the diameter of the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent discharge port 71 to the washing tank 1. In other words, the hole 83 also functions as a foreign matter capture flow path. Foreign matter larger than the hole 83 cannot pass through the hole 83 and remains in the detergent tank 30. Foreign matter smaller than the hole 83 that can pass through the hole 83 flows to the washing tank 1 without clogging the flow path. This prevents foreign matter from clogging the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent discharge port 71 to the washing tank 1. Foreign matter that adheres to the area around the hole 83 without passing through the hole 83 can be easily removed by removing and washing the foreign matter capture unit 70.

[0112] By providing the additional holes 83, the cross-sectional area of ​​the liquid detergent flow path can be increased, thereby reducing pressure loss and the negative pressure generated when the liquid detergent is drawn out by the detergent pump 16. Furthermore, since the area through which the liquid detergent can pass can be increased, even if a portion is blocked by foreign matter, the impact of clogging can be reduced. Therefore, the performance and reliability of liquid detergent delivery can be maintained well.

[0113] Figure 25 schematically shows a cross-section when the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 40. A rib 45 is provided at the tip of the elbow 44 that constitutes the detergent discharge path 43 on the detergent tank storage section side. When the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 40, the rib 45 is inserted into the flow path 73 of the foreign matter capture section 70, pushing in the valve body 80. This opens the valve body 80, allowing liquid detergent to flow into the flow path 73. While the detergent tank 30 is removed from the detergent tank storage section 40, the valve body 80 is pressed against the groove 78 by the biasing spring 81, closing the flow path between the valve body 80 and the cover 76, thereby preventing the liquid detergent stored inside from leaking out of the detergent discharge port 71.

[0114] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which the foreign matter capture unit 70 has a foreign matter capture channel for capturing foreign matter. However, the foreign matter capture unit 70 may also have a filter or the like for capturing foreign matter. In this case as well, the foreign matter capture unit 70 may be provided so as to be removable outwards from the detergent tank 30. This allows the filter to be easily removed and the foreign matter removed.

[0115] The present disclosure has been explained above based on examples. These examples are illustrative, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in combinations of their components and processing processes, and that such modifications also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0116] In this embodiment, an example was shown in which a cleaning tank 1 having an opening at the top is provided so as to be able to be moved in and out from a housing 2 having a front opening. However, in another example, the opening and closing door of the cleaning tank 1 may be provided above the cleaning tank 1. In this case, the cleaning tank 1 may be provided so as to be able to be moved in and out from the housing 2, or it may be fixedly housed inside the housing 2.

[0117] In this embodiment, an example was shown in which the dishwasher is housed inside the kitchen; however, in another example, the dishwasher may be configured as a separate device.

[0118] In the embodiments described, a dishwasher for washing items to be washed, such as tableware, is described, but the technology of this disclosure can also be applied to washing machines for washing clothes and other items, and washing devices for washing other items to be washed. [Industrial applicability]

[0119] This invention can be used in cleaning devices for cleaning objects to be cleaned. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0120] 1 Washing tank, 1a Opening, 2 Housing, 3 Door, 4 Handle, 5 First rail, 6 Second rail, 8 Dishes, 9 Circulation pump, 10 Heater, 11 Washing nozzle, 12 Side wall, 13 Front space, 14 Detergent tank storage section, 14a Detergent discharge port in detergent tank storage section, 14b Detergent discharge path on the side of the detergent tank storage section, 14c Recess, 15 Detergent tank, 15a Transparent section, 15c Detergent discharge port in detergent tank, 15d Detergent suction path in detergent tank, 15e Lid, 15f Protrusion, 16 Detergent pump, 17 Detergent discharge port in washing tank, 18 Detergent discharge path on the side of the washing tank, 19 Control device, 23 Flat section, 24 Operating section, 25 Display section, 30 Detergent tank, 31 Cover, 32 Rotating shaft, 33 Arm, 33a Fitting section, 33b Notch, 34 Float, 35 Magnetic material, 36 Inner bottom surface, 37 Detergent outlet, 38 Liquid detergent, 39 Atmospheric vent, 39a Protrusion, 39b Notch, 40 Detergent tank storage section, 41 Magnetic sensor, 42 Detergent inlet, 43 Detergent discharge path on the detergent tank storage section side, 44 Elbow, 45 Rib, 50 Control device, 51 Process control unit, 52 Detection result acquisition unit, 53 Liquid level determination unit, 54 Detergent tank storage determination unit, 55 Liquid delivery control unit, 56 Notification unit, 57 Standing time acquisition unit, 58 Liquid delivery target amount determination unit, 59 Memory, 70 Foreign object capture unit, 71 Detergent outlet, 72 O-ring, 73 Flow path, 74 Constriction section, 75 Constriction section opening, 76 Cover, 77 Cover opening, 78 Groove, 80 Valve body, 81 Biasing spring, 82 Seal member, 83 Hole.

Claims

1. The casing and A washing tank for containing the object to be washed is provided inside the aforementioned housing, A detergent tank for storing liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank, A detergent tank storage section for storing the aforementioned detergent tank in a way that allows it to be easily inserted and removed, The system includes a detection unit for detecting whether or not the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage compartment, A floating body that floats in the liquid detergent is provided in the detergent tank, and the floating body contains a magnetic material. The detection unit can detect whether the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage compartment by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic material, and can also detect the liquid level inside the detergent tank by detecting the magnetism of the magnetic material. dishwasher.

2. A detergent supply unit that sends liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank to the washing tank, A control unit that controls the delivery of liquid detergent by the detergent delivery unit, Furthermore, If the control unit detects that the detergent tank is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit, the control unit controls the detergent supply unit so as not to send the liquid detergent from the detergent tank to the washing tank. The dishwasher according to claim 1.

3. The cleaning tank is provided so as to be removable from the housing. A dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2.

Images