washing machine

Abstract

To provide a washing machine capable of detecting a residual amount of a liquid agent in a tank, while, by using a pair of electrode terminals, suppressing electric corrosion of these electrode terminals.SOLUTION: A fully automatic washing machine includes: a washing and dewatering tub which is arranged inside a housing, and in which washing of laundry is performed; a detergent tank 400 in which a liquid detergent is stored; a water supply unit for inputting the detergent in the detergent tank 400 into the washing and dewatering tank; a pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 arranged in the detergent tank 400; a control part for determining whether or not a liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than a predetermined liquid level L1, based on the change of a resistance value occurring between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422; and a display part. The control part performs electric conduction between the pair of electric terminals 421, 422 for a predetermined time, based on the fact that predetermined detection timing has come, and the control part allows the display part to perform notification showing that the detergent needs replenishment, based on the establishment of a replenishment condition including the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 being lower than the predetermined liquid level L1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] A washing machine capable of automatically adding liquid detergent into a washing and spin-drying tub is described in, for example, Patent Document 1.

[0003] The washing machine in Patent Document 1 is provided with a detergent tank that is disposed within an outer cover and contains liquid detergent. The detergent tank has a refill port for refilling detergent that is closed by a detergent tank lid, thereby sealing the interior, and has an air inlet and a liquid outlet. An air pump is connected to the air inlet. When the air pump operates, air pressure within the sealed detergent tank increases, forcing the detergent in the detergent tank out through the liquid outlet and into the washing and spin tub. This is convenient for users, as it eliminates the need to add a full load of detergent to the washing machine each time a wash cycle is performed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-259290 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When the amount of detergent remaining in the detergent tank becomes low, it is necessary to replenish the detergent tank. Therefore, it is conceivable to adopt a configuration that detects the liquid level in the detergent tank and notifies the user that detergent needs to be replenished when the amount of detergent remaining in the detergent tank becomes low.

[0006] In such a case, a configuration can be adopted to detect when the amount of detergent remaining in the detergent tank is low by disposing a pair of electrode terminals in the detergent tank, passing electricity between the pair of electrode terminals, and detecting their electrical continuity. When the amount of detergent remaining in the detergent tank is low and there is no detergent between the pair of electrode terminals, the pair of electrode terminals will no longer be electrically connected by the detergent.

[0007] However, in the above configuration, when a current is passed between the pair of electrode terminals immersed in the liquid, there is a concern that the pair of electrode terminals may be electrolytically corroded.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a washing machine that can detect the remaining amount of liquid agent in a tank using a pair of electrode terminals while suppressing electrolytic corrosion of these electrode terminals. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A washing machine according to a main aspect of the present invention includes a washing tub disposed in a housing and in which laundry is washed; For multiple wash runs The washing machine includes a tank for storing laundry liquid, a dosing mechanism for dosing the liquid from the tank into the washing tub, a pair of electrode terminals arranged in the tank, a control unit for determining whether the liquid level in the tank is lower than a predetermined liquid level based on a change in resistance value between the pair of electrode terminals, and an alarm unit. Here, the control unit applies current between the pair of electrode terminals for a predetermined time based on the arrival of a predetermined detection timing, and when the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level, an alarm unit is notified. Based on this, the amount of the liquid used for each washing operation or the number of washing operations is started to be accumulated, The liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level. and the integrated value of the usage amount or the number of times of operation exceeds a predetermined threshold value, The notification unit is caused to issue a notification indicating that the liquid agent needs to be replenished.

[0010] According to the above configuration, the remaining amount of the liquid in the tank is detected using the pair of electrode terminals, and when the remaining amount becomes low, the user is notified that the liquid needs to be refilled, so that the user can refill the liquid when the liquid in the tank becomes low.

[0011] Furthermore, since current is passed between the pair of electrode terminals for a predetermined period of time based on the arrival of a predetermined detection timing, it is possible to avoid current passing between the pair of electrode terminals for a long period of time, thereby suppressing electrolytic corrosion of the pair of electrode terminals. Furthermore, the notification unit will issue a notification when the remaining amount of liquid becomes less than the amount remaining when the liquid level in the tank falls below a predetermined level, so the interval between liquid replenishments can be extended, reducing the user's hassle.

[0012] In the washing machine of this embodiment, the detection timing may include at least one of the timing when the washing machine is turned on, the timing when an operation is performed to check the remaining amount of liquid, and the timing when the washing operation is completed.

[0013] According to the above configuration, if the notification unit issues a notification when the washing machine is turned on, when an operation to check the remaining amount of solution is performed, and when the washing operation is completed, the user is likely to be near the washing machine and therefore is likely to notice the notification. Therefore, by passing current between the pair of electrode terminals at at least one of these times, effective and efficient current can be passed, the current passing time can be shortened, and the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion in the pair of electrode terminals can be suppressed.

[0016] In the washing machine according to this aspect, the liquid agent in the tank may include a liquid detergent. The washing machine may further include a water tank for storing water containing the detergent dispensed by the dispenser, and an ultrasonic cleaning device for applying ultrasonic waves generated by an ultrasonic generator to laundry immersed in the water in the water tank to clean the laundry. In this case, the detection timing includes a timing when a washing operation ends and a timing when a cleaning operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device ends.

[0017] According to the above configuration, by performing a cleaning operation using the ultrasonic cleaning device, partial stains on the laundry can be removed prior to washing. Furthermore, if the notification unit issues a notification at the timing when the washing operation and the cleaning operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device are completed, the user is likely to be near the washing machine and therefore likely to notice the notification. Therefore, when an ultrasonic cleaning device is installed, by passing current between the pair of electrode terminals at such timing, effective and waste-free current can be passed, the current passing time can be shortened, and the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion of the pair of electrode terminals can be suppressed.

[0018] In the above configuration, the control unit further starts accumulating the amount of detergent used for each washing operation and each cleaning operation or the number of times the washing operation and the cleaning operation have been performed, based on the fact that the liquid level in the tank has fallen below the predetermined liquid level. ,before When the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the integrated value of the usage amount or the number of operations exceeds a predetermined threshold value, The notification unit is caused to issue a notification indicating that the liquid agent needs to be replenished. .

[0019] With this configuration, the alarm unit will issue an alarm when the remaining amount of liquid becomes less than the amount remaining when the liquid level in the tank drops below a predetermined level, so the interval between liquid replenishments can be extended, reducing the user's effort. Moreover, since not only the amount of detergent used or the number of operations for the wash operation but also the amount of detergent used or the number of operations for the cleaning operation using the ultrasonic cleaning device are accumulated, the amount of detergent used or the number of operations can be obtained with high accuracy. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] According to the present invention, a washing machine can be provided that can detect the remaining amount of liquid agent in a tank by using a pair of electrode terminals while suppressing electrolytic corrosion of these electrode terminals.

[0021] The effects and significance of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of the embodiments, however, the following embodiment is merely an example of how the present invention can be implemented, and the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of a fully automatic washing machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Fig. 2(a) is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device and the top plate in a state where the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the water storage unit are stored in the storage unit according to the embodiment, and Figs. 2(b) and 2(c) are perspective views of the main parts of the ultrasonic cleaning device and the top plate in a state where the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the water storage unit are pulled out from the storage unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device according to the embodiment, in which the water storage unit is detached from the main body unit. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic cleaning unit and the main body unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of a water supply device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 6(a) and (b) are respectively a plan view and a bottom view of the detergent tank according to the embodiment, and FIG. 6(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' of FIG. 6(a). [Figure 7] 7(a) and (b) are respectively a plan view and a bottom view of the fabric softener tank according to the embodiment, and FIG. 7(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' of FIG. 7(a). [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a fully automatic washing machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a control process for a liquid agent refill notification function according to an embodiment. [Figure 10]10(a) and 10(b) are flowcharts showing a first refill notification process and a second refill notification process, respectively, included in the control process for the liquid agent refill notification function according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a washing machine of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of a fully automatic washing machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0025] Referring to FIG. 1, the fully automatic washing machine 1 includes a housing 10 that forms an outer shell. The housing 10 includes a rectangular cylindrical body 11 with open top and bottom faces, a top panel 12 that covers the top face of the body 11, and a base 13 that supports the body 11. A laundry inlet 14 is formed in the top panel 12. The inlet 14 is covered by a top lid 15 that can be opened and closed. A control unit 16 is disposed inside the front of the top panel 12. The control unit 16 controls the washing operation by the fully automatic washing machine 1 and the cleaning operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50.

[0026] Within the housing 10, an outer tub 20 with an open top is elastically suspended and supported by four suspension rods 21 equipped with vibration-isolating devices. A washing and spin-drying tub 22 with an open top is disposed within the outer tub 20. The washing and spin-drying tub 22 rotates around a rotation axis extending vertically. A large number of spin-drying holes 22a are formed around the entire inner circumferential surface of the washing and spin-drying tub 22. A balance ring 23 is provided on the top of the washing and spin-drying tub 22. A pulsator 24 is disposed at the bottom of the washing and spin-drying tub 22. A plurality of blades 24a are provided radially on the surface of the pulsator 24. The washing and spin-drying tub 22 corresponds to the "washing tub" of this invention.

[0027] A drive unit 30 that generates torque to drive the washing / spinning tub 22 and the pulsator 24 is disposed on the outer bottom of the outer tub 20. The drive unit 30 includes a drive motor 31 and a transmission mechanism 32. The transmission mechanism 32 has a clutch mechanism 32a, and by switching operation of the clutch mechanism 32a, the torque of the drive motor 31 is transmitted only to the pulsator 24 to rotate only the pulsator 24 during the washing and rinsing processes, and the torque of the drive motor 31 is transmitted to the pulsator 24 and the washing / spinning tub 22 to rotate the pulsator 24 and the washing / spinning tub 22 integrally during the spinning process.

[0028] A drain outlet 20a is formed on the outer bottom of outer tub 20. A drain valve 40 is provided in drain outlet 20a. Drain valve 40 is connected to a drain hose 41. When drain valve 40 is opened, water stored in washing / spinning tub 22 and outer tub 20 is drained outside the machine through drain hose 41.

[0029] An overflow outlet 20b is formed at the top of the outer tub 20. When water accumulates in the outer tub 20 above a predetermined overflow level, the water is discharged from the overflow outlet 20b. An overflow receiver 25 is provided on the outer surface of the outer tub 20 so as to cover the overflow outlet 20b. One end of an overflow pipe 26 is connected to the bottom of the overflow receiver 25. The other end of the overflow pipe 26 is connected to a drain hose 41. The water discharged from the overflow outlet 20b is received by the overflow receiver 25, and then flows through the overflow pipe 26 to the drain hose 41.

[0030] An ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is disposed approximately in the center of the rear part of the top panel 12. The ultrasonic cleaning device 50 mainly performs a cleaning operation to remove dirt partially adhering to the object to be cleaned prior to washing in the fully automatic washing machine 1.

[0031] A storage tank 60 is disposed behind the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 at the rear of the upper panel 12, and a drainage receiver 70 is disposed below the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. The storage tank 60 stores water containing detergent that is supplied to the water storage tank 210 of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 as cleaning water. The storage tank 60 is provided with a supply valve 61 that opens and closes the outlet for cleaning water from within the tank.

[0032] The drainage receiver 70 receives water drained from the water tank 210. A drain hole 71 is formed in the drainage receiver 70, through which the received water is discharged. One end of a drainage pipe 72 is connected to the drain hole 71. The other end of the drainage pipe 72 is connected to the upper part of the overflow pipe 26. The water received by the drainage receiver 70 is discharged into the drainage hose 41 through the drainage pipe 72 and the overflow pipe 26.

[0033] A water supply device 80 is disposed at the rear of the top panel 12 so as to surround the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. The water supply device 80 is connected to a water faucet and has the function of supplying water into the washing and spin-drying tub 22. The water supply device 80 also functions as an automatic dispenser that automatically dispenses liquid detergent and fabric softener into the washing and spin-drying tub 22. The water supply device 80 also has the function of supplying wash water to the storage tank 60. Note that the detergent and fabric softener are liquid agents used in laundry, and hereinafter, the detergent and fabric softener may be collectively referred to as "liquid agents."

[0034] FIG. 2(a) shows the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and the water storage unit 200 in the storage unit 17. was drawn from 2(b) and 2(c) are perspective views of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 and the top panel 12 in the above state. Stored in 2(c) is a perspective view of the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 in the opened state and the main parts of the top plate 12. In FIG. 2(c), the cover 17b is not shown so that the inside of the storage section 17 can be seen.

[0035] A storage section 17 for storing the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is provided in the center of the rear part of the top panel 12. The top panel 12 has an opening as an entrance / exit 17a in front of the storage section 17. A cover 17b is provided on the entrance / exit 17a.

[0036] The ultrasonic cleaning device 50 comprises an ultrasonic cleaning unit 100, a water storage unit 200, and a main body 300. The ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 has an ultrasonic generator that generates ultrasonic waves. The water storage unit 200 is provided with a water storage tank 210 that is located below the ultrasonic generator and that stores cleaning water. Cleaning water is supplied to the water storage tank 210 from a supply nozzle 62 that is connected to a supply valve 61 of a storage tank 60.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2(a), when a cleaning operation is performed, the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is pulled forward from the storage section 17 and protrudes inside the inlet 14 of the upper panel 12. On the other hand, as shown in Figures 2(b) and 2(c), when a cleaning operation is not performed, the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is stored in the storage section 17. The entrance 17a is closed by the cover 17b.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 2( a), the top panel 12 has a funnel-shaped detergent spout 18 formed to the left rear of the inlet 14, and a funnel-shaped fabric softener spout 19 formed to the right rear of the inlet 14. An opening 18a formed in the center of the detergent spout 18 connects to the inlet of a detergent tank 400, which will be described later. A filter 410 is attached to the inlet through the opening 18a. Furthermore, an opening 19a formed in the center of the fabric softener spout 19 connects to the inlet of a fabric softener tank 500, which will be described later. A filter 510 is attached to the inlet through the opening 19a. Liquid detergent is poured into the detergent tank 400 through the detergent spout 18, and liquid fabric softener is poured into the fabric softener tank 500 through the fabric softener spout 19.

[0039] 3 is a perspective view of ultrasonic cleaning device 50 with water storage unit 200 detached from main body 300. FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 and main body 300.

[0040] In the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, the ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 is held by the main body 300, and the water storage unit 200 is detachably attached to the main body 300.

[0041] The ultrasonic cleaning unit 100 includes an ultrasonic generator 110 and a housing 120. The ultrasonic generator 110 includes an ultrasonic vibrator 111 and a vibrating horn 112 coupled to the ultrasonic vibrator 111. The ultrasonic generator 110 generates ultrasonic waves from the tip of the vibrating horn 112 by high-frequency vibration of the ultrasonic vibrator 111. The housing 120 is elongated in the front-to-rear direction and has an arm shape with its tip 121 bent downward. The ultrasonic generator 110 is disposed in the front part of the housing 120. The tip of the vibrating horn 112 is exposed from an opening 122 of the housing 120. The rear part 123 of the housing 120 is fixed to the top of the main body 300.

[0042] The water storage section 200 has a handle 201 formed on the front side. The water storage section 200 also has a water tank 210 formed in a shape that matches the shape of the water storage section 200. The water tank 210 has a drain outlet 211 formed in the lower part of the rear side. The drain outlet 211 is closed by a valve body 220. A valve movable member 230 is connected to the valve body 220. A rear part 231 of the valve movable member 230 protrudes rearward beyond the water storage section 200. The valve movable member 230 is urged by a spring (not shown) in the rear direction so that the valve body 220 closes.

[0043] When the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is pulled out of the storage section 17, the drain outlet 211 is closed by the valve body 220. When the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is stored in the storage section 17, the valve movable member 230 abuts against the rear wall of the drain receptacle 70 and moves forward. This causes the valve body 220 to move forward, opening the drain outlet 211. When the drain outlet 211 is opened, the cleaning water in the water tank 210 is discharged into the drain receptacle 70.

[0044] Fig. 5 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of the water supply device 80. Figs. 6(a) and (b) are plan and bottom views, respectively, of the detergent tank 400, and Fig. 6(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA' in Fig. 6(a). Figs. 7(a) and (b) are plan and bottom views, respectively, of the fabric softener tank 500, and Fig. 7(c) is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB' in Fig. 7(a).

[0045] As shown in FIG. 5, the water supply device 80 includes a detergent tank 400, a fabric softener tank 500, and a water supply unit 600.

[0046] The detergent tank 400 stores liquid detergent. The fabric softener tank 500 stores liquid fabric softener. The water supply unit 600 takes in the detergent and fabric softener from the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener from the fabric softener tank 500, respectively, and pours the taken-in detergent and fabric softener into the washing and spin-drying tub 22 using the water supplied to the washing and spin-drying tub 22. In this way, the water supply unit 600 puts the detergent in the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener in the fabric softener tank 500 into the washing and spin-drying tub 22. The detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener tank 500 correspond to the "tank" in this invention. The water supply unit 600 also corresponds to the "dosing mechanism" in this invention.

[0047] As shown in Figures 6(a) and (b), the detergent tank 400 is made of, for example, a resin material and has a box shape that is long from front to back. A circular inlet 401 is formed on the front side of the top surface of the detergent tank 400. A filter 410 is attached to the inlet 401. The filter 410 captures foreign matter that has entered the detergent tank 400 through the inlet 401. A circular discharge portion 402 that protrudes downward is formed on the front side of the bottom surface of the detergent tank 400. A cylindrical discharge port 403 that extends rearward is formed on the periphery of the discharge portion 402.

[0048] 6(c), the detergent tank 400 is provided with a detergent electrode unit 420 to detect when the remaining amount of detergent in the tank is low. The detergent electrode unit 420 is composed of a pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, i.e., a first electrode terminal 421 and a second electrode terminal 422.

[0049] The first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 are made of a conductive material such as steel and include round bar-shaped terminal portions 421a and 422a and head portions 421b and 422b provided at the upper ends of the terminal portions 421a and 422a. A male screw is formed on the top of each terminal portion 421a and 422a. Furthermore, a cross-shaped groove is formed in each head portion 421b and 422b so that the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 can be turned with a screwdriver.

[0050] A first mounting boss 404 and a second mounting boss 405 that protrude into the interior of the detergent tank 400 are formed on the top surface of the detergent tank 400, aligned in the left-right direction. The first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 are inserted into the detergent tank 400 from above through the first mounting boss 404 and the second mounting boss 405. At this time, the upper parts of the terminals 421a and 422a, which have male threads, are passed through the first mounting boss 404 and the second mounting boss 405 while being turned, and are fixed in place. In this way, the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 are fixed to the top surface of the detergent tank 400. The terminals 421a and 422a of the first electrode terminal 421 and the second electrode terminal 422 extend downward from the top surface of the detergent tank 400, with their tips positioned near the bottom surface of the detergent tank 400. The distance between first electrode terminal 421 and second electrode terminal 422 is relatively small, for example, about 10-odd millimeters.

[0051] When the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1, i.e., when the remaining amount of detergent is greater than the predetermined amount and a sufficient amount of detergent is present between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 is relatively small, and when the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1, i.e., when the remaining amount of detergent is less than the predetermined amount and little or no detergent is present between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, almost all air is present, so the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 is relatively large. Therefore, when electricity is applied between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, if the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L1, the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 is electrically connected by the detergent, but if the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1, the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 is not electrically connected by the detergent.

[0052] As shown in Figures 7(a) and (b), fabric softener tank 500 is made of, for example, a resin material and has a box shape that is long from front to back. A circular inlet 501 is formed on the front side of the top surface of fabric softener tank 500. A filter 510 is attached to inlet 501. Filter 510 captures foreign matter that has entered fabric softener tank 500 through inlet 501. A circular discharge portion 502 that protrudes downward is formed on the front side of the bottom surface of fabric softener tank 500. A cylindrical discharge port 503 that extends rearward is formed on the periphery of discharge portion 502.

[0053] 7(c), the fabric softener tank 500 is provided with a fabric softener electrode unit 520 to detect when the amount of fabric softener remaining in the tank is low. The fabric softener electrode unit 520 is composed of a pair of electrode terminals 521, 522, i.e., a first electrode terminal 521 and a second electrode terminal 522.

[0054] The configuration of first electrode terminal 521 and second electrode terminal 522 is similar to that of the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 of detergent electrode unit 420, and includes terminal portions 521a, 522a with male threads and head portions 521b, 522b with cross-shaped grooves.

[0055] Similar to the detergent tank 400, a first mounting boss 504 and a second mounting boss 505 are formed on the top surface of the fabric softener tank 500. A first electrode terminal 521 and a second electrode terminal 522 are inserted into the interior of the fabric softener tank 500 from above through these mounting bosses 504, 505 and fixed to these mounting bosses 504, 505. Terminal portions 521a, 522a of the first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 extend downward from the top surface of the fabric softener tank 500, with their tips located near the bottom surface of the fabric softener tank 500. The distance between the first electrode terminal 521 and the second electrode terminal 522 is relatively small, for example, about 10 mm.

[0056] When the liquid level in the fabric softener tank 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2, i.e., when the remaining amount of fabric softener is greater than the predetermined amount and sufficient fabric softener is present between the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522, the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522 is relatively small, and when the liquid level in the fabric softener tank 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2, i.e., when the remaining amount of fabric softener is less than the predetermined amount and little or no fabric softener is present between the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522, almost all air is present, so the resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522 is relatively large. Therefore, when electricity is applied between the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522, if the liquid level in the fabric softener tank 500 is higher than the predetermined liquid level L2, the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522 is in a conducting state due to the fabric softener, but if the liquid level in the fabric softener tank 500 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2, the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522 is not in a conducting state due to the fabric softener.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 5, water supply unit 600 includes a water channel member 610 , a water supply valve 620 , a first three-way valve 630 , a second three-way valve 640 , a third three-way valve 650 , and a pump 660 .

[0058] Water channel member 610 is provided with water injection chamber 611. Water injection port 611a is formed at the front end of the bottom of water injection chamber 611. Water injection port 611a faces above washing and dewatering tub 22.

[0059] The water channel member 610 is formed with a first water channel 612 and a second water channel 613 that are connected to the water injection chamber 611, and is provided with a water inlet 614 for the first water channel 612 and a water inlet 615 for the second water channel 613. Furthermore, the water channel member 610 is formed with a branch water channel 616 that branches off from the first water channel 612 to supply water into the storage tank 60. An outlet 616a of the branch water channel 616 is connected to the inlet of the storage tank 60.

[0060] In first water passage 612, second three-way valve 640, first three-way valve 630, pump 660, and third three-way valve 650 are arranged in this order from upstream to downstream along the path from inlet 614 to water injection chamber 611. Therefore, first water passage 612 is divided at the positions of second three-way valve 640, first three-way valve 630, pump 660, and third three-way valve 650, and has upstream connection ports 617a, 617b, 617c, and 617d and downstream connection ports 618a, 618b, 618c, and 618d at each position.

[0061] Water supply valve 620 is a so-called dual valve and includes a first valve 621 and a second valve 622 with a higher rated flow rate than first valve 621. Water inlet 623 of water supply valve 620 is connected to a water faucet via a water supply hose (not shown). Water outlet 624 of first valve 621 is connected to inlet 614, and water outlet 625 of second valve 622 is connected to inlet 615.

[0062] First three-way valve 630 and second three-way valve 640 have first water inlets 631, 641, second water inlets 632, 642, and water outlets 633, 643, and are switchable between a state in which first water inlets 631, 641 communicate with outlets 633, 643, and a state in which second water inlets 632, 642 communicate with outlets 633, 643. Third three-way valve 650 has water inlet 651, first water outlet 652, and second water outlet 653, and is switchable between a state in which water inlet 651 communicates with first outlet 652, and a state in which water inlet 651 communicates with second outlet 653.

[0063] The first water inlet 631 and water outlet 633 of the first three-way valve 630 are connected to the upstream connection port 617b and the downstream connection port 618b, respectively. The third three-way valve 650 has a water inlet 651, a first water outlet 652, and a second water outlet 653 connected to the upstream connection port 617d, the downstream connection port 618d, and the connection port 616b of the branch water channel 616, respectively. The second three-way valve 640 has a first water inlet 641 and a water outlet 643 connected to the upstream connection port 617a and the downstream connection port 618a, respectively.

[0064] The pump 660 is a piston pump. The suction port 661 and the discharge port 662 of the pump 660 are connected to the upstream connection port 617c and the downstream connection port 618c, respectively.

[0065] A second water inlet 632 of the first three-way valve 630 is connected to the outlet 403 of the detergent tank 400 via a rubber detergent supply pipe 430. A second water inlet 642 of the second three-way valve 640 is connected to the outlet 503 of the fabric softener tank 500 via a rubber fabric softener supply pipe 530.

[0066] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the fully automatic washing machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0067] In addition to the above-described configuration, the fully automatic washing machine 1 includes an operation unit 710 and a display unit 720. The control unit 16 also includes a control unit 801, a memory unit 802, an operation detection unit 803, a detergent amount detection unit 804, a fabric softener amount detection unit 805, a display drive unit 806, a motor drive unit 807, a clutch drive unit 808, six valve drive units 809 to 814, a pump drive unit 815, and a vibrator drive unit 816.

[0068] The operation unit 710 and the display unit 720 can be provided, for example, on the front of the top panel 12 or the front of the top cover 15.

[0069] The operation unit 710 includes various operation buttons such as a power on button 711, a power off button 712, a start button 713, a course selection button 714, a wash button 715, a detergent dispense button 716, and a fabric softener dispense button 717. The power on button 711 and the power off button 712 are buttons for turning the power on and off to the fully automatic washing machine 1, respectively. The start button 713 is a button for starting a wash operation and a cleaning operation. The course selection button 714 is a button for selecting an operation course from a plurality of operation courses related to the wash operation. The cleaning button 715 is a button for selecting a cleaning operation. The detergent dispense button 716 is a button for selecting whether to set automatic detergent dispense, and if automatic dispense is set, whether to use a normal, large, or small amount of detergent. The fabric softener dispense button 717 is a button for selecting whether to set automatic softener dispense, and if automatic dispense is set, whether to use a normal, large, or small amount of fabric softener. In addition to when the power-off button 712 is operated, the power to the fully automatic washing machine 1 is cut off when a predetermined time has passed since the power was turned on without the washing or cleaning operation starting, and when a predetermined time has passed since the washing operation ended.

[0070] Display unit 720 includes a plurality of LEDs and a 7-segment display, and displays the operation course selected by course selection button 714, the progress of the washing operation and the remaining time, the setting results by detergent dispense button 716 and fabric softener dispense button 717, i.e., displaying the setting of "normal," "more," "less," or "none," and displaying a message indicating that detergent and fabric softener need to be replenished. Display unit 720 corresponds to the "notification unit" of the present invention.

[0071] The operation detection unit 803 outputs to the control unit 801 an operation signal corresponding to an operation button operated by the user from among the various operation buttons of the operation unit 710 .

[0072] The detergent amount detection unit 804 is connected to the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 of the detergent electrode unit 420. The detergent amount detection unit 804 includes a square wave generation circuit and is configured as a circuit that outputs to the control unit 801 a pulse signal of a high voltage having a pulse width that corresponds to the resistance value generated across the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422. For example, when the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is higher than a predetermined liquid level L1 and the resistance value between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 is relatively low, the pulse width of the high voltage becomes relatively wide, and when the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 and the resistance value between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 is relatively high, the pulse width of the high voltage becomes relatively narrow.

[0073] Fabric softener amount detection unit 805 is connected to the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522 of fabric softener electrode unit 520. Fabric softener amount detection unit 805 includes a square wave generation circuit and is configured as a circuit that outputs to control unit 801 a pulse signal of a high voltage having a pulse width that corresponds to the resistance value generated across the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522. For example, when the liquid level in fabric softener tank 500 is higher than predetermined liquid level L2 and the resistance value between the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522 is relatively low, the pulse width of the high voltage becomes relatively wide, and when the liquid level in fabric softener tank 500 is lower than predetermined liquid level L2 and the resistance value between the pair of electrode terminals 521, 522 is relatively high, the pulse width of the high voltage becomes relatively narrow.

[0074] Note that the resistance values ​​of detergents and fabric softeners may differ depending on the type. Therefore, if the type of detergent stored in detergent tank 400 is changed, the pulse width of the high voltage of the pulse signal from detergent amount detection unit 804 when the liquid level in detergent tank 400 is higher than predetermined liquid level L1 may change accordingly. Similarly, if the type of fabric softener stored in fabric softener tank 500 is changed, the pulse width of the high voltage of the pulse signal from fabric softener amount detection unit 805 when the liquid level in fabric softener tank 500 is higher than predetermined liquid level L2 may change accordingly.

[0075] The display drive unit 806, motor drive unit 807, clutch drive unit 808, six valve drive units 809 to 814, pump drive unit 815 and vibrator drive unit 816 each drive the display unit 720, drive motor 31, clutch mechanism 32a, water supply valve 620, first three-way valve 630, second three-way valve 640, third three-way valve 650, supply valve 61, drain valve 40, pump 660 and ultrasonic vibrator 111 in accordance with control signals from the control unit 801.

[0076] The storage unit 802 includes an EEPROM, a RAM, etc. The storage unit 802 stores programs for executing the washing operation of various operation courses and the cleaning operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. The storage unit 802 also stores various parameters and various control flags used in executing these programs.

[0077] The control unit 801 includes a CPU, etc., and controls the display drive unit 806, motor drive unit 807, clutch drive unit 808, six valve drive units 809 to 814, pump drive unit 815, vibrator drive unit 816, etc., in accordance with programs stored in the memory unit 802, based on signals from the operation detection unit 803, detergent amount detection unit 804, fabric softener amount detection unit 805, etc.

[0078] The fully automatic washing machine 1 can perform various washing operations. In the washing operation, a washing step, an intermediate spin-drying step, a rinsing step, and a final spin-drying step are performed in this order.

[0079] In the washing and rinsing steps, the pulsator 24 rotates clockwise and counterclockwise while water is stored in the washing and spin-drying tub 22. The rotation of the pulsator 24 generates a water flow in the washing and spin-drying tub 22. In the washing step, the laundry is washed by the generated water flow and the detergent contained in the water. In the rinsing step, the laundry is rinsed by the generated water flow.

[0080] In the intermediate spin-drying step and the final spin-drying step, the washing / dehydrating tub 22 and the pulsator 24 rotate together at high speed. The action of centrifugal force generated in the washing / dehydrating tub 22 dehydrates the laundry.

[0081] When automatic detergent dispensing is set based on the operation of detergent dispensing button 716, detergent is automatically dispensed into washing and spin tub 22 by water supply device 80 when water is supplied in the washing cycle. At this time, third three-way valve 650 is switched to a state in which water inlet 651 and first water outlet 652 are in communication with each other, and first water passage 612 is in a state in which it is cut off from storage tank 60 and connected to water filling chamber 611. In addition, second three-way valve 640 is switched to a state in which first water inlet 641 and water outlet 643 are in communication with each other, and first water passage 612 is in a state in which it is connected at the position of second three-way valve 640.

[0082] First, first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which second water inlet 632 and water outlet 633 are in communication. This allows detergent to flow into first water passage 612. Pump 660 is activated, and air upstream of pump 660 in first water passage 612 is sucked in, creating negative pressure on the upstream side. This causes liquid detergent in detergent tank 400 to be sucked into first water passage 612 via detergent supply pipe 430, as shown by the dashed-dotted line in FIG. 5 . An amount of detergent corresponding to the operating time of pump 660 accumulates in first water passage 612.

[0083] Next, first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which first water inlet 631 and water outlet 633 are connected to each other. This prevents detergent from flowing into first water channel 612. Furthermore, first water channel 612 is connected at the position of first three-way valve 630. First valve 621 of water supply valve 620 is opened, and water from the water faucet is supplied into first water channel 612, as shown by the solid arrow in FIG. 5. The water flowing through first water channel 612 washes away the detergent accumulated in first water channel 612. The detergent washed away by the water flows into water injection chamber 611 together with the water, and is poured into washing and spinning tub 22 through water injection port 611a.

[0084] Furthermore, in water supply valve 620, first valve 621 is opened and second valve 622 is opened at the same time, so that water is supplied into washing and spin-drying tub 22. As shown by the dashed arrow in Fig. 5, water from the water faucet is supplied into second water passage 613, flows through second water passage 613, reaches water injection chamber 611, and is released from water injection port 611a into washing and spin-drying tub 22. At this time, the flow rate of water flowing through second water passage 613 is greater than the flow rate of water flowing through first water passage 612. When the water level in washing and spin-drying tub 22 reaches a predetermined wash water level, first valve 621 and second valve 622 are closed, and water supply ends.

[0085] If automatic dispensing of fabric softener is set based on the operation of fabric softener dispensing button 717, fabric softener is automatically dispensed into washing and spin tub 22 by water supply device 80 when water is dispensed in the rinsing cycle. At this time, as in the washing cycle, first water passage 612 is connected to water injection chamber 611. Also, first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which first water inlet 631 and water outlet 633 are in communication, and first water passage 612 is in a connected state at the position of first three-way valve 630.

[0086] First, second three-way valve 640 is switched to a state in which second water inlet 642 and water outlet 643 are in communication. This allows fabric softener to flow into first water passage 612. Pump 660 is activated, and as shown by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 5 , liquid fabric softener in fabric softener tank 500 is sucked into first water passage 612 via fabric softener supply pipe 530. An amount of fabric softener corresponding to the operating time of pump 660 accumulates in first water passage 612.

[0087] Next, second three-way valve 640 is switched to a state in which first water inlet 641 and water outlet 643 are connected. This prevents fabric softener from flowing into first water channel 612. Furthermore, first water channel 612 is connected at the position of second three-way valve 640. First valve 621 is opened, and water from the water faucet is supplied into first water channel 612, as shown by the solid arrow in FIG. 5. The fabric softener accumulated in first water channel 612 is swept away by the water flowing through first water channel 612, flows into water injection chamber 611, and is then poured into washing and spinning tub 22 through water injection port 611a.

[0088] Furthermore, similarly to the washing process, second valve 622 is opened simultaneously with first valve 621, and water is supplied into washing and spin-drying tub 22.

[0089] The water level, i.e., the amount of water, in the washing and dehydrating tub 22 during the washing and rinsing processes is determined according to the laundry load detected before water is supplied. The amount of solution to be put into the washing and dehydrating tub 22, i.e., the amount of solution to be used, is determined according to the amount of water.

[0090] For example, the amount of liquid per standard water volume, e.g., 30 liters, is associated with each type of liquid and stored in advance in the storage unit 802. The user selects and sets the type of liquid contained in the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener tank 500 from among the various types of liquid through a predetermined setting operation. The control unit 801 reads from the storage unit 802 the amount of liquid per standard water volume for the set type, calculates the amount of liquid appropriate for that amount of water based on the read amount of liquid and the amount of water determined according to the load, and sets the calculated amount of liquid as the amount of liquid to be used in the current wash run. If the detergent dispense button 716 and the fabric softener dispense button 717 are set to "more" or "less," the calculated amount of liquid is increased or decreased by a predetermined percentage to set the amount of liquid to be used.

[0091] When water is supplied for the wash cycle, the determined amount of detergent is introduced from detergent tank 400 to first water passage 612 of water supply unit 600 by the operation of pump 660. Similarly, when water is supplied for the rinse cycle, the determined amount of fabric softener is introduced from fabric softener tank 500 to first water passage 612 of water supply unit 600 by the operation of pump 660.

[0092] Note that if automatic detergent dispensing is not set, when water is supplied in the wash cycle, detergent is not introduced from detergent tank 400 into water supply unit 600, and tap water is not supplied to first water channel 612, and automatic detergent dispensing into washing and spin-drying tub 22 is not performed. In this case, only water is supplied to washing and spin-drying tub 22 through second water channel 613 of water supply unit 600. Detergent is manually dispensed into washing and spin-drying tub 22 by the user. Similarly, if automatic fabric softener dispensing is not set, when water is supplied in the rinsing cycle, fabric softener is not introduced from softener tank 500 into water supply unit 600, and tap water is not supplied to first water channel 612, and automatic fabric softener dispensing into washing and spin-drying tub 22 is not performed. In this case, only water is supplied to washing and spin-drying tub 22 through second water channel 613 of water supply unit 600. Fabric softener is manually dispensed into washing and spin-drying tub 22 by the user.

[0093] In the fully automatic washing machine 1, a cleaning operation can be performed using an ultrasonic cleaning device 50.

[0094] During the wash operation, after wash water is supplied from the storage tank 60 to the water tank 210, the soiled portion of the laundry is placed between the water tank 210 and the ultrasonic generator 110. The soiled portion is immersed in the wash water stored in the water tank 210 and comes into contact with the tip surface of the ultrasonic generator 110. When the ultrasonic generator 110 is activated, ultrasonic waves are generated from its tip. The action of the ultrasonic waves peels off the dirt from the item being washed. At this time, the power of the detergent is added, thereby increasing the cleaning power.

[0095] When supplying water in flushing operation, flush water is supplied into the storage tank 60 by the water supply device 80 before water is supplied to the water tank 210. At this time, the supply valve 61 is closed.

[0096] First, third three-way valve 650 is switched to a state in which water inlet 651 and second water outlet 653 are connected to each other. As a result, first water passage 612 is cut off from water injection chamber 611 and connected to storage tank 60 via branch water passage 616. As in the washing process, after first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state in which detergent can flow into first water passage 612, pump 660 is operated, and liquid detergent in detergent tank 400 is sucked into first water passage 612 and accumulates therein.

[0097] Next, first three-way valve 630 is switched to a state where detergent cannot flow into first water passage 612 and first water passage 612 is connected at the position of first three-way valve 630. After that, first valve 621 of water supply valve 620 is opened and water from the water faucet is supplied into first water passage 612. The detergent that has accumulated in first water passage 612 is swept away by the water flowing through first water passage 612, and the detergent mixes with the water to become wash water. The wash water flows into storage tank 60 through branch water passage 616. When a predetermined amount of wash water has accumulated in storage tank 60, first valve 621 is closed.

[0098] Supply valve 61 is opened, and wash water in storage tank 60 is supplied into water tank 210 via supply nozzle 62. Thereafter, during the wash operation, each time the amount of wash water in water tank 210 decreases due to absorption by laundry, the amount of wash water that has decreased is replenished from storage tank 60 to water tank 210.

[0099] The amount of detergent contained in the wash water and dispensed into the storage tank 60 is changed depending on the type of detergent stored in the detergent tank 400. For example, the control unit 801 reads out from the memory unit 802 the amount of detergent relative to the reference water volume for the type of detergent in the detergent tank 400, and reduces the read amount by a predetermined percentage to determine the amount of detergent dispensed, i.e., the amount to be used.

[0100] When flush water in storage tank 60 is supplied to water tank 210, the amount of flush water remaining in storage tank 60 decreases. In this case, flush water is again supplied from water supply device 80 to storage tank 60. The amount of detergent used this time is, for example, the same as the amount used during the first water supply. Alternatively, taking into account that the amount of flush water supplied will be less due to the amount of flush water remaining in storage tank 60, the amount of detergent used the second time may be less than the amount used during the first water supply. The amount of detergent used in the wash operation is the sum of the amount used the first time and the amount used the second time.

[0101] In addition, if flush water used in the previous flush operation remains in the water tank 210 when the flush operation is started and almost no flush water is supplied from the storage tank 60 to the water tank 210, a second supply of flush water to the storage tank 60 will not be performed.

[0102] The fully automatic washing machine 1 of this embodiment is provided with a function of notifying the user that the liquid needs to be replenished when the amount of liquid in the detergent tank 400 or the fabric softener tank 500 becomes low. Hereinafter, this function will be referred to as a liquid replenishment notification function.

[0103] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing a control process for the liquid agent refill notification function. Fig. 10(a) and (b) are flowcharts showing a first refill notification process and a second refill notification process, respectively, included in the control process for the liquid agent refill notification function.

[0104] The control unit 801 repeatedly executes the control process of Fig. 9 in parallel for each of the detergent in the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener in the fabric softener tank 500. Note that fabric softener is not used in the cleaning operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. Therefore, the process of determining the end of the cleaning operation in S12 of Fig. 9 is not executed for the fabric softener in the fabric softener tank 500.

[0105] The control process for the liquid agent refill notification function will be described below using the control process for the detergent in the detergent tank 400 as an example.

[0106] 9, the control unit 801 monitors whether the washing operation has ended, whether the cleaning operation has ended, whether the power on button 711 has been operated to turn on the automatic washing machine 1, and whether a confirmation operation has been performed to check the remaining amount of liquid (S11, S12, S13, S14). The confirmation operation can be a so-called special operation, for example, an operation of simultaneously pressing the power on button 711 and a specific operation button.

[0107] When the washing operation is completed (S11: YES), or when the cleaning operation is completed (S12), the control unit 801 executes the first replenishment notification process shown in FIG. 10(a).

[0108] 10(a), the control unit 801 applies current to the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 for a predetermined time, for example, two seconds (S101). Then, the control unit 801 detects the pulse width of the high voltage of the pulse signal output from the detergent amount detection unit 804 during the application of current, and determines whether the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than a predetermined liquid level L1 based on the detected pulse width (S102). Whether the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 is determined by whether the detected pulse width is greater than a threshold value set in accordance with the type of detergent selected by the user.

[0109] If the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (102: YES), the control unit 801 adds the amount of detergent used in the current washing or cleaning operation, X, to the accumulated amount of usage, XT, to obtain a new accumulated amount of usage, XT (S103). Then, the control unit 801 determines whether the accumulated amount of usage, XT, is greater than a threshold value (S104). Here, the threshold value is set to a value such that, for example, an amount of detergent for one washing operation remains in the detergent tank 400 when the amount of detergent used when the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is approximately at the predetermined liquid level, L1, is subtracted from the amount of detergent used when the threshold value is set.

[0110] If the integrated value XT of the usage is equal to or less than the threshold value (S104: NO), the control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage in the storage unit 802 (S106). At this time, the integrated value XT of the usage is stored in the EEPROM of the storage unit 802 so that it is retained even if the power to the fully-automatic washing machine 1 is turned off.

[0111] When the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1, the amount of detergent used X is added each time a washing operation or a cleaning operation is completed, and thus the cumulative amount of detergent used XT increases. As a result, when the cumulative amount of detergent used XT exceeds the threshold value (S104: YES), the control unit 801 determines that the replenishment condition is met and causes the display unit 720 to issue a notification indicating that the detergent tank 400 needs to be replenished with detergent (S105). For example, on the display unit 720, an LED assigned to the notification indicating that replenishment is required lights up or flashes. The notification by the display unit 720 is continued for a predetermined time, for example, 20 minutes. When the notification by the display unit 720 ends, the power to the fully-automatic washing machine 1 is shut off.

[0112] The control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage amount that exceeds the threshold in the storage unit 802 (S106).

[0113] In S102, if the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is not lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (S102: NO), the control unit 801 resets the integrated value XT of the usage amount to zero (S107). That is, if the integrated value XT of the usage amount was not zero, it is reset to zero, and if the integrated value XT of the usage amount was zero, it remains at zero. Note that if the liquid level, which has fallen below the predetermined liquid level L1, rises to or above the predetermined liquid level L1 by refilling the detergent tank 400 with detergent, the integrated value XT of the usage amount is reset to zero.

[0114] The control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage amount, which is zero, in the storage unit 802 (S106).

[0115] Thus, the first replenishment notification process ends.

[0116] On the other hand, when the power is turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1 (S13: YES) or when a confirmation operation is performed (S14: YES), the control unit 801 executes the second replenishment notification process shown in FIG. 10(b).

[0117] 10(b), the control unit 801 applies electricity to the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 for a predetermined time (S201). Then, the control unit 801 detects the pulse width of the high voltage of the pulse signal output from the detergent amount detection unit 804 while the electricity is being applied, and determines whether the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than a predetermined liquid level L1 based on the detected pulse width (S202).

[0118] If the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (S202: YES), the control unit 801 determines whether the integrated value XT of the usage amount is greater than the threshold value (S203). If the integrated value XT of the usage amount is greater than the threshold value (S203: YES), the control unit 801 determines that the refill condition is met and causes the display unit 720 to issue a notification urging the user to refill the detergent tank 400 with detergent (S204). The notification by the display unit 720 continues, for example, until power to the fully-automatic washing machine 1 is cut off. However, if the detergent tank 400 has been refilled and a power-on state of the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422 is confirmed in the first refill notification process at the end of the washing operation, the notification stops.

[0119] In the second refill notification process, the cumulative usage value XT is determined to be greater than the threshold value and a notification is made by the display unit 720 when, in the first refill notification process after the previous washing or cleaning operation is completed, the cumulative usage value XT is determined to be greater than the threshold value and a notification is made by the display unit 720, but the user does not refill detergent into the detergent tank 400.

[0120] In S202, when the control unit 801 determines that the liquid level in the detergent tank 400 is not lower than the predetermined liquid level L1 (S202: NO), it sets the integrated value XT of the usage amount to zero (S205). Then, the control unit 801 stores the integrated value XT of the usage amount that is zero in the storage unit 802 (S206).

[0121] In this way, the second replenishment notification process ends.

[0122] The control process for the fabric softener in the fabric softener tank 500 is similar to the control process for the detergent in the detergent tank 400. That is, when a wash operation ends, when the fully-automatic washing machine 1 is turned on, or when a confirmation operation is performed, a pair of electrode terminals 521, 522 are energized, and whether the liquid level in the fabric softener tank 500 is lower than a predetermined liquid level L2 is determined based on the state of conduction. When the liquid level is lower than the predetermined liquid level L2 and the integrated value XT of the amount of fabric softener used exceeds a threshold, a notification is issued by the display unit 720. For example, an LED assigned to the notification indicating that fabric softener needs to be replenished flashes or lights up on the display unit 720.

[0123] <Effects of the embodiment> As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is determined whether the liquid levels in the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener tank 500 are lower than predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 based on the change in resistance between the pairs of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, and 522 arranged in these tanks, and when a refill condition is met, including the liquid levels being lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, a notification indicating that the liquid needs to be refilled is issued by the display unit 720. This allows the user to refill the detergent and fabric softener when the remaining amounts of detergent in the detergent tank 400 and fabric softener in the fabric softener tank 500 are low.

[0124] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, current is passed between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 based on the timing when the washing operation ends, the cleaning operation ends, the power is turned on to the fully-automatic washing machine 1, or the confirmation operation is performed. This allows current to be passed between the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 at a timing when the user is likely to be near the fully-automatic washing machine 1 and is likely to notice the notification by the display unit 720, so that current can be passed effectively and without waste, the current passing time can be shortened, and the occurrence of electrolytic corrosion in the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 can be suppressed.

[0125] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the liquid levels in the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener tank 500 fall below the predetermined levels L1 and L2, the amount of liquid used per wash run is accumulated. When the liquid levels fall below the predetermined levels L1 and L2 and the accumulated amount XT exceeds a threshold, the refill condition is met, and a notification is sent by the display unit 720. This allows the liquid to be replenished when the remaining amount of liquid becomes less than the amount remaining when the liquid levels fell below the predetermined levels L1 and L2, thereby lengthening the interval between refills and reducing the user's effort. Moreover, because the amount of detergent used per wash run by the ultrasonic cleaning device 50 is accumulated as well as the amount of detergent used per wash run, the amount of detergent used can be accurately obtained.

[0126] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications to the embodiments of the present invention are possible.

[0127] For example, in the above embodiment, the timing when the power is turned on to the fully automatic washing machine 1 by operating the power on button 711, the timing when a check operation to check the remaining amount of liquid is performed, and the timing when the washing operation is completed are all set as detection timings when electricity is passed between the pairs of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522. However, all three of these timings do not have to be set as detection timings; at least one of them may be set as detection timing. Also, in the above embodiment, the timing when the washing operation is completed is set as detection timing, but the timing when the washing operation is completed does not have to be set as detection timing. In addition, if the timing when the washing operation ends is not considered to be the detection timing and the first replenishment notification process based on the end of the washing operation is not performed, when it is determined in S202 of the second replenishment notification process that the liquid levels in the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener tank 500 are lower than the predetermined liquid levels L1, L2, the process of adding the amount of detergent used in the previous washing operation X to the cumulative usage value XT and the process of storing the cumulative usage value XT after the addition in memory unit 802 are performed.

[0128] In the above embodiment, when the liquid levels in the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener tank 500 fell below the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, the amount of detergent used for each wash run and each cleaning run was accumulated, and the amount of fabric softener used for each wash run was accumulated. When the liquid levels fell below the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 and the accumulated amount XT of the amounts used exceeded a threshold, the refill condition was met and a notification was given by the display unit 720. However, instead of accumulating the amounts used, the number of times the detergent was used for each wash run and each cleaning run was accumulated, and the number of times the fabric softener was used for each wash run may be accumulated. When the liquid levels fell below the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2 and the accumulated value of the number of runs exceeded a threshold, the refill condition was met and a notification was given by the display unit 720. In this case, too, the liquid can be replenished when the remaining amount of liquid becomes less than the amount remaining when the liquid levels in the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener tank 500 fall below the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, thereby lengthening the interval between liquid replenishments. Furthermore, a configuration may be adopted in which the usage amount and the number of operations are not included in the conditions for fulfilling the conditions. In this case, when the liquid levels in the detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener tank 500 fall below the predetermined liquid levels L1 and L2, the refill condition is fulfilled, and a notification is issued by the display unit 720.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the fully automatic washing machine 1 is provided with the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, and the supply nozzle 62 and the storage tank 60 for supplying water to the ultrasonic cleaning device 50. However, the fully automatic washing machine 1 may be configured without the ultrasonic cleaning device 50, the supply nozzle 62, and the storage tank 60. In this case, the water supply device 80 is not provided with the third three-way valve 650 and the branch water passage 616. In the control process for the liquid agent refill notification function in FIG. 9, the process of determining the end of the cleaning operation in S12 is not performed.

[0130] Furthermore, the shape of the pair of electrode terminals 421, 422, 521, 522 and their arrangement in the detergent tank 400 and fabric softener tank 500 are not limited to those in the above embodiment, and any shape or arrangement may be used as long as the remaining amount of liquid can be detected.

[0131] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, water supply device 80 includes detergent tank 400 and fabric softener tank 500, and is configured to be able to automatically dispense both detergent and fabric softener into washing and spin tub 22. However, water supply device 80 may be configured not to include either detergent tank 400 or fabric softener tank 500.

[0132] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, water supply unit 600 is used as the dispensing mechanism for automatically dispensing the detergent in detergent tank 400 and the fabric softener in fabric softener tank 500 into washing and spin-drying tub 22. The water supply unit 600 takes the detergent and fabric softener into first water channel 612 and causes them to flow into washing and spin-drying tub 22 with the water flowing through first water channel 612. However, a dispensing mechanism having a different configuration from water supply unit 600 may be used as long as it can automatically dispense the detergent and fabric softener into washing and spin-drying tub 22.

[0133] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, detergent amount detection unit 804 is configured as a circuit that outputs a pulse signal in which the pulse width of a high voltage changes according to the resistance value generated between a pair of electrode terminals 421, 422. However, the circuit may be configured to output a detection signal different from the pulse signal, such as a voltage signal of a different magnitude. Similarly, fabric softener amount detection unit 805 may be configured as a circuit that outputs a detection signal different from the pulse signal.

[0134] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a notification indicating that the liquid needs to be replenished is made by the display unit 720. However, a notification indicating that the liquid needs to be replenished may be made by a sound such as a voice from a speaker (not shown) provided in the fully automatic washing machine 1.

[0135] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a fully automatic washing machine 1 has been shown. However, the present invention can also be applied to washing machines other than the fully automatic washing machine 1, for example, a drum-type washing machine having a horizontal-axis drum as a washing tub. The present invention can also be applied to a fully automatic washer-dryer and a drum-type washer-dryer having a drying function.

[0136] In addition, the embodiments of the present invention can be modified in various ways as appropriate within the scope of the technical ideas set forth in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 1. Fully automatic washing machine (washing machine) 10. Cabinet 22 Washing spin tub (washing tub) 50 Ultrasonic cleaning equipment 80 Water supply equipment 110 Ultrasonic generator 210 Water Tank 400 Detergent Tank (Tank) 421,422 Pair of electrode terminals 500 Fabric softener tank (tank) 521,522 Pair of electrode terminals 600 Water supply unit (feeding mechanism) 720 Display unit (notification unit) 801 Control Unit

Claims

1. A washing tub disposed in the housing for washing laundry; A tank that can store enough liquid for multiple wash runs, A pouring mechanism for pouring the liquid agent from the tank into the washing tub; A pair of electrode terminals disposed within the tank; a control unit that determines whether or not a liquid level in the tank is lower than a predetermined liquid level based on a change in resistance value generated between the pair of electrode terminals; A notification unit, The control unit is When a predetermined detection timing has arrived, a current is applied between the pair of electrode terminals for a predetermined time. When the liquid level in the tank becomes lower than the predetermined liquid level, an accumulation of the amount of the liquid used per washing operation or the number of washing operations is started; When the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the integrated value of the usage amount or the number of operations exceeds a predetermined threshold, the notification unit issues a notification indicating that the liquid agent needs to be replenished. A washing machine characterized by:

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, The detection timing includes at least one of a timing when the washing machine is turned on, a timing when an operation for checking the remaining amount of the liquid agent is performed, and a timing when a washing operation is completed. A washing machine characterized by:

3. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, the liquid in the tank includes a liquid detergent; The ultrasonic cleaning device further includes a water tank for storing the water containing the detergent dispensed by the dispenser mechanism, and applies ultrasonic waves generated by an ultrasonic generator to laundry immersed in the water in the water tank to clean the laundry, The detection timing includes a timing when a washing operation is completed and a timing when a cleaning operation by the ultrasonic cleaning device is completed. A washing machine characterized by:

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, The control unit is Based on the fact that the liquid level in the tank has become lower than the predetermined liquid level, accumulating the amount of detergent used for each washing operation and each cleaning operation or the number of times the washing operation and each cleaning operation have been performed is started, When the liquid level in the tank is lower than the predetermined liquid level and the integrated value of the usage amount or the number of operations exceeds a predetermined threshold, the notification unit issues a notification indicating that the liquid agent needs to be replenished. A washing machine characterized by:

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