dishwasher

Abstract

To provide a user-friendly dishwasher which is equipped with a detergent automatic input function and facilitates input of a detergent in a detergent tank.SOLUTION: A dishwasher includes a housing, a washing chamber which is provided inside the housing for housing articles to be washed, and a detergent tank 15 for accumulating a liquid detergent supplied to the washing chamber. The detergent tank 15 has a detergent input port 153 for inputting the liquid detergent into the detergent tank 15. A floating body 30 floating in the liquid detergent is provided through an arm 33 in the detergent tank 15. The arm 33 is pivotally supported inside the detergent tank 15 by a rotating shaft 32. The detergent input port 153 is provided in a position outside a right above position of a range where the arm 33 rotates.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to dishwashers. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a dishwasher that prevents detergent from solidifying. This dishwasher includes a washing tub with an opening at the top for storing dishes, a housing that supports the washing tub so that it can be freely moved in and out from the front and rear, a detergent tank that is located on the outside and front of the washing tub and stores liquid detergent, and a detergent discharge path that connects the detergent tank and the washing tub, and the detergent tank is configured to be freely moved in and out from the left and right. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-178864 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides a user-friendly dishwasher that has an automatic detergent dispensing function and allows detergent to be easily dispensed into the detergent tank. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The dishwasher according to the present disclosure comprises a housing, a washing tub provided within the housing for accommodating items to be washed, and a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tub. The detergent tank has a detergent inlet for pouring the liquid detergent into the detergent tank, and a floating body that floats within the liquid detergent is provided within the detergent tank via an arm. The arm is pivotally supported within the detergent tank by a rotating shaft, and the detergent inlet is provided at a position that is not directly above the range in which the arm rotates. The top surface of the detergent tank has a stopper rib on the back side, and the stopper rib is arranged between the arm and the detergent inlet in the depth direction of the detergent tank. When the water level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank drops, the float rotates downward, and the arm abuts against the stopper rib, the float is positioned at its lowest point. Dishwasher. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] The dishwasher according to the present disclosure is equipped with an automatic detergent dispensing function, and each component in the detergent tank is provided in a convenient position, so that detergent can be easily dispensed into the detergent tank. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher in a state where a washing tub is pulled out from a housing according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] Schematic front view of a dishwasher showing the detergent tank installed [Figure 3] A schematic front view of a dishwasher showing the detergent tank in the middle of being stored or pulled out [Figure 4] Schematic front view of a dishwasher with the detergent tank retracted [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a detergent tank in a state where no detergent liquid is stored and the detergent inlet is closed; [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a detergent tank in which detergent liquid is stored and the detergent inlet is open; [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a detergent storage section and a detergent tank when the detergent tank is stored. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic front view of a detergent storage section and a detergent tank when the detergent tank is stored; [Figure 9] 1 is a schematic front view of a detergent storage section and a detergent tank when the detergent tank is being stored or pulled out. [Figure 10] Schematic front view of the detergent tank and the check valve when the detergent tank is being stored or pulled out [Figure 11] Schematic front view of the detergent tank before the tank-side check valve is installed [Figure 12] Schematic front view of the detergent tank with the tank-side check valve installed [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic perspective view of the detergent storage section and the detergent tank immediately before the detergent tank is stored; [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of the detergent storage section and the detergent tank when the detergent tank is being stored. [Figure 15] An enlarged perspective view of the area around the tank-side check valve when the detergent tank is being stored [Figure 16] 10 is a schematic front view of a detergent tank and a tray according to a second embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is a schematic perspective view of a detergent tank and a tray according to a second embodiment. [Figure 18] Cross-sectional side view of the area around the check valve when it is installed (initial stage) [Figure 19] Side cross-sectional view of the area around the check valve during installation (mid-term) [Figure 20] Cross-sectional side view of the area around the check valve during installation (final stage) DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time when the inventors came up with the idea for the present disclosure, the configuration of the conventional detergent tank did not take into consideration the positional relationship with the detergent inlet and other components.

[0009] Therefore, the inventors have developed a configuration that allows users to easily add detergent to the detergent tank and has introduced a float detection mechanism to improve the performance of the detergent tank itself. However, the inventors discovered a problem in that the position of the float also needs to be taken into consideration, and have come to form the subject of the present disclosure in order to solve this problem.

[0010] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a dishwasher in which each component in the detergent tank is located in a convenient position, making it easy to add detergent to the detergent tank.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary detailed description may be omitted. For example, detailed description of well-known matters or redundant description of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy in the following description and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0012] The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0014] [Overall configuration] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher in a state where a washing tub 1 is pulled out from a housing 2 in embodiment 1. Specifically, FIG. 1 shows a schematic side view of a dishwasher in a state where a washing tub 1 is pulled out from a housing 2 of the dishwasher.

[0015] The dishwasher of the first embodiment is a built-in dishwasher that is installed in a system kitchen, for example.

[0016] In the first embodiment, as shown in the drawings, the front direction will be described as the direction in which the door body 3 and washing tub 1 are pulled out, and the rear direction will be described as the direction in which the washing tub 1 is stored and the door body 3 is closed. In the following description, the opening side of the washing tub 1 of the dishwasher will be referred to as the top, the opposite side as the bottom, and further, the right side as viewed from the front of the door body 3 will be referred to as the right side, and the left side as the left side.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the dishwasher of embodiment 1 has a housing 2, a washing tub 1 arranged inside the housing 2, a side wall 12, a detergent tank 15, a control device 19, and a door body 3 that opens and closes the opening of the housing 2.

[0018] Washing tub 1 has an opening 1a at the top, and a basket 7 for storing tableware 8 is placed inside. Washing tub 1 has a first rail 5 fixed to the bottom. Meanwhile, housing 2 has a second rail 6 fixed to the inside of its inner surface. First rail 5 is movably supported by second rail 6 of housing 2. This allows washing tub 1 to be supported so that it can be freely inserted and removed from housing 2 in the front-to-back direction (left-to-right direction on the plane of FIG. 1).

[0019] The dishwasher includes a flat surface 23 that is located in front of opening 1a, which is the upper front exterior of washing tub 1. An operation panel 24 and a display panel 25 are arranged on flat surface 23. Operation panel 24 is operated by the user to set the dishwasher's wash course, power on / off, etc. Display panel 25 displays the washing status, operating status, time, etc. An operation display board (not shown) that controls their operation is arranged on the back side of flat surface 23 where operation panel 24 and display panel 25 are arranged.

[0020] The side walls 12 are disposed on both sides between the washing tub 1 and the door body 3. The side walls 12 connect the washing tub 1 and the door body 3 so that they can move together. In this case, the dishwasher has a front space 13 formed by the front side of the washing tub 1, the rear side of the door body 3, the side walls 12, and the flat portion 23.

[0021] The door body 3 has a handle 4 provided at its upper part so as to protrude forward. The handle 4 is used by a user to take the cleaning tank 1 in and out of the housing 2 by grasping it.

[0022] In the dishwasher of the first embodiment, wash water for washing dishes in washing tub 1 is supplied via the following route. Specifically, wash water such as tap water is first supplied from a branch water faucet in a system kitchen (not shown) to a water supply route such as a water supply hose. The supplied wash water passes through the water supply route and is supplied to washing tub 1 at the required level and in the required amount by a water supply pump or water supply valve (not shown). Water is supplied into washing tub 1 via the route configured as described above.

[0023] A circulation pump 9 is disposed below and outside the washing tank 1. The circulation pump 9 circulates the washing water supplied into the washing tank 1 through a circulation path and sprays the washing water from washing nozzles 11. The sprayed washing water is then configured to wash the tableware 8. A heater 10 for heating the washing water is also disposed near the bottom of the washing tank 1.

[0024] The dishwasher of the first embodiment also has a drain path that drains wash water from the washing tub 1. The drain path is made up of a drain pump, a drain hose, and the like (not shown). When washing and rinsing of the tableware 8 is completed, the drain pump is driven and the wash water is drained to the outside via the drain hose. In other words, the drain path is configured so that the wash water in the washing tub 1 can be drained into a system kitchen sink or the like.

[0025] A detergent tank storage section 14 is disposed in a front space 13 at the front exterior of the washing tub 1, and stores a detergent tank 15 in a removable manner. The detergent tank storage section 14 is formed on one side of the side wall 12 by welding, screwing, or integral molding with the side wall 12. The detergent tank storage section 14 may also be configured to be provided on the front surface of the washing tub 1.

[0026] The dishwasher of the first embodiment is configured as described above.

[0027] [Configuration around the detergent tank] Next, the configuration around detergent tank 15 of the dishwasher will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0028] Fig. 2 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the detergent tank 15 stored in place. Fig. 3 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the detergent tank 15 in the middle of being stored in place or in the middle of being pulled out. Fig. 4 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the detergent tank 15 stored in place with a dashed line.

[0029] 3, the detergent tank housing portion 14 has a hollow space. This allows the detergent tank 15 to be stored so as to be freely taken in and out of the space of the detergent tank housing portion 14. The detergent tank 15 is stored so as to be freely taken in and out in the left-right direction (laterally) when viewed from the front (the front side of the door body 3).

[0030] As shown in Figures 1 and 4, the detergent tank storage section 14 is located approximately below (including below) the planar section 23 (operation section 24 or display section 25), for example, on the right side from the center of the washing tub 1, and stores the detergent tank 15.

[0031] 2 and 3 show an example in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out to the right from the detergent tank housing portion 14, but this is not limiting. For example, the detergent tank housing portion 14 and the detergent tank 15 may be disposed in positions symmetrically opposite to those shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In this case, it is desirable to pull out the detergent tank 15 to the left from the detergent tank housing portion 14.

[0032] With the above-described configuration, the detergent tank 15 is not noticeable when the washing tub 1 is completely housed in the housing 2. This allows the dishwasher to have a simple design. Furthermore, the space (front space 13) for housing the detergent tank 15 at the front of the washing tub 1 can be used effectively.

[0033] 1, the detergent tank 15 is configured so that it can be freely inserted and removed from the detergent tank storage section 14 in the left-right direction when the washing tub 1 is pulled out forward at least a distance a (dotted arrow in FIG. 1). Note that the distance a indicates the shortest distance between the mating surface between the rear surface of the door body 3 and the front surface of the housing 2 and the surface of the detergent tank storage section 14 on the washing tub 1 side. In other words, the distance a indicates a state in which at least the entire detergent tank storage section 14 is pulled out forward from the frontmost part of the housing 2.

[0034] With the above configuration, it becomes possible to insert or remove the detergent tank 15 only when the washing tank 1 is pulled out forward by a predetermined distance (distance a) or more. Therefore, the user can easily insert or remove the detergent tank 15 by utilizing the space in front of the washing tank 1 that stores the detergent tank 15 and the space in the lateral direction 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 a distance that allows the detergent tank 15 to be inserted or removed in the left-right direction.

[0035] As described above, the dishwasher of the first embodiment has an operation unit 24 that is provided on the upper front outer side of the washing tub 1 and allows the user to set the washing course, turn the power on and off, etc. This allows the user to operate the operation unit 24 with one hand, for example, from the front and above the washing tub 1. At the same time, the user can use the other hand to insert or remove the detergent tank 15 in the left-right direction. This improves the user's operability.

[0036] Next, each component of the detergent tank 15 will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 15 when the detergent container lid 154 is in the closed position and no detergent is stored. Figure 6 is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 15 when the detergent container lid 154 is in the open position and the detergent is almost full. 1 is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 15 when the detergent is stored up to the tank. FIG.

[0037] In the following description of the vicinity of the detergent tank, the direction in which the detergent tank 15 is inserted (depth direction) will be described as the front side, and the direction in which the detergent tank 15 is inserted will be described as the back side, as shown in Fig. 5. In the following description, the opening side of the detergent tank 15 will be described as the top, and the opposite side will be described as the bottom.

[0038] When the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank housing portion 14, the claws 158 fit into claw receivers provided on the side of the detergent tank housing portion 14, and the detergent tank 15 is stably supported within the detergent tank housing portion 14.

[0039] The detergent tank 15 is configured as, for example, a bottle-shaped container in which liquid detergent is stored. The detergent tank 15 has an open top, and the opening is entirely covered by a cover 31. Specifically, the detergent tank 15 is configured with a detergent discharge port 152, a detergent inlet 153 on the cover 31, a detergent container lid 154, and the like.

[0040] A pouring assist slope 156 may be provided so as to slope from the detergent inlet 153 toward the inside of the detergent tank 15. By allowing the poured liquid detergent to flow along the pouring assist slope, it is possible to prevent the liquid detergent from falling to random locations in the detergent tank 15 and bouncing and splashing. Furthermore, because the liquid detergent can be poured along the slope, it can be poured steadily even if the user's pouring speed varies. Furthermore, because the liquid detergent is poured using the pouring assist slope 156, the liquid detergent is less likely to adhere to the periphery of the detergent dispenser lid 154, allowing the detergent dispenser lid 154 to be kept clean for a relatively long period of time, improving convenience for the user.

[0041] Furthermore, a guideline for the amount of liquid detergent may be displayed on the assisting inclined surface 156. For example, this can be used to indicate that the detergent tank is full when detergent is poured up to the line displayed on the assisting inclined surface 156, or to warn that there is too much detergent when detergent is poured up to the display line.

[0042] The cover 31, the detergent inlet 153, the detergent container lid 154, and the inlet assist slope 156 are integrally formed and are configured to be detachable from the detergent tank 15.

[0043] Next, a method for refilling the detergent tank 15 with detergent will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a schematic front view of the detergent storage section 14 and the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14. Figure 9 is a schematic front view of the detergent storage section 14 and the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is being stored in or pulled out of the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0044] 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 opens the detergent dispenser lid section 154. The user can then easily refill the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent from the detergent inlet 153, guiding the liquid detergent along the inlet assist slope 156. The above-described configuration of the detergent tank 15 allows the liquid detergent to be supplied and stored in the detergent tank 15 outside the washing tub 1. This prevents the detergent from solidifying in the detergent tank 15 due to humidity, dryness, etc. inside the washing tub 1 during washing.

[0045] The top surface of the detergent tank storage compartment 14 has a top projection 37 on the front side in the depth direction and a step 38 on the back side. The top projection 37 serves to prevent the detergent tank 15 from rattling up and down when stored. The step 38 is configured at a height that the detergent tank can just barely pass through, so the detergent container lid 154 comes into contact with this step and is pressed downward, allowing the detergent container lid 154 to be completely closed if it is not closed completely. can.

[0046] Furthermore, if the user accidentally inserts the detergent tank 15 with the detergent container lid 154 open (see FIG. 6), the detergent container lid 154 will first come into contact with the front end of the detergent tank housing portion 14 and be rotated approximately 180 degrees. However, at this time, the detergent container lid 154 is not yet completely closed, and begins to be inserted into the detergent tank housing portion 14 in a half-open state as shown in FIG. 9. When the detergent container lid 154 in this half-open state passes over the top surface protrusion 37, the detergent container lid 154 is pushed from the top surface and is completely closed (see FIG. 9). Even if the top surface protrusion 37 is not high enough to allow the detergent container lid 154 to close, the detergent container lid 154 is configured to be completely closed when it passes over the step portion 38.

[0047] This configuration ensures that the lid is securely closed even if the user forgets to close the detergent container lid 154 or if the user thinks that the lid is closed but does not close completely, thereby preventing the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 from solidifying.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 8, a tank-side check valve 151 is provided at the detergent discharge port 152 of the detergent tank 15 at the rear end of the bottom of the detergent tank. Meanwhile, the detergent tank housing section 14 also has a main body-side check valve 141 at the rear end of the bottom. The main body-side check valve 141 of the detergent tank housing section 14 is engaged with the tank-side check valve 151. At the same time as these check valves are engaged, the detergent tank 15 is completely housed in the detergent tank housing section 14.

[0049] When the main body-side check valve 141 and the tank-side check valve 151 are engaged, a path is formed for transferring liquid detergent from the detergent discharge port 152 to the detergent tank housing portion 14. Furthermore, engagement between the tank-side check valve 151 and the main body-side check valve 141 allows the detergent tank 15 to be housed more stably in the detergent tank housing portion 14. When the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank housing portion 14, the tank-side check valve 151 of the detergent discharge port 152 is configured to be connected to the main body-side check valve 141 on the detergent tank housing portion 14 side.

[0050] The detergent pump 16 is connected to the other end of the main body check valve 141, which engages with the tank check valve 151. Furthermore, a washing tank side detergent discharge path 18 is connected between the detergent pump 16 and a washing tank detergent discharge port 17 (see FIG. 1) provided on the front surface of the washing tank 1.

[0051] 1, the control device 19 is disposed below the front surface of the washing tank 1. The control device 19 controls the driving of, for example, the circulation pump 9, the drain pump, the water supply pump (water supply valve), the detergent pump 16, and the like.

[0052] Specifically, the control device 19 controls the drive rotation speed, drive time, etc. of the detergent pump 16. As a result, when washing dishes 8, etc., a required amount of liquid detergent is supplied from the detergent tank 15. At this time, the liquid detergent is supplied into the washing tub 1 via the tank-side check valve 151, the main body-side check valve 141, the detergent pump 16, etc. in this order. In other words, the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 can be transferred to the washing tub 1 and supplied.

[0053] As described above, the detergent tank 15 and its surroundings of the dishwasher are configured, and liquid detergent is supplied into the washing tub 1.

[0054] [Configuration of detergent tank and float] Next, the detailed configuration of the detergent tank 15 of the dishwasher will be described with reference to Figs. 2 to 9. Figs. 2 and 8 are schematic cross-sectional views of the detergent tank 15 in the first embodiment when stored in the detergent tank storage section 14. Figs. 3 and 9 are schematic cross-sectional views of the detergent tank 15 in the first embodiment when stored in the detergent tank storage section 14. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the state in which detergent tank 15 is pulled out from detergent tank storage section 14. Fig. 4 is a front view of the dishwasher in which the position of detergent tank 15 in embodiment 1 is projected onto washing tub 1 by a broken line.

[0055] The detergent tank 15 has a transparent portion provided on at least a portion of its side surface. The transparent portion 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 portion also has a scale indicating the amount of liquid detergent. This allows the user to visually check the amount of detergent in the detergent tank 15 from the side through the transparent portion, even when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14. This allows the user to visually estimate how much liquid detergent is running low, when it is time to refill it, and so on. As a result, the user can pull out the detergent tank 15 and easily refill the liquid detergent at the appropriate time.

[0056] The detergent tank 15 also has a tank handle 155 that the user grasps when pulling out the detergent tank 15. The tank handle 155 is provided on at least a portion of the side surface. In particular, if it is provided on the upper side of the front side, it is easier for the user to grasp and is less likely to drop when pulled out than a detergent tank 15 without a handle (see Figures 5 to 9). Here, in this embodiment, a transparent portion is provided below the tank handle 155.

[0057] In order to suppress waves generated in the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is inserted into or removed from the washing tub 1 or the housing 2, a float 30, which is an example of a floating body that floats in the liquid detergent, is provided in the detergent tank 15. The float 30 is pivotally supported by an arm 33 on a rotating shaft 32 provided on the lid of the detergent tank 15. A magnetic body is provided on the float 30.

[0058] A magnetic sensor for detecting the magnetism of a magnetic body is provided on the side of the detergent tank housing portion 14. When the magnetic sensor detects the magnetism of the magnetic body, it is detected that the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank housing portion 14.

[0059] Fig. 5 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15. Fig. 6 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when the detergent container lid 154 is open and liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15. In Fig. 6, the liquid level is indicated by a dashed line.

[0060] The float 30 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 15. As shown in FIG. 5, when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, the float 30 and the arm 33 hang down vertically due to their own weight. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, as shown in FIG. 6, the float 30 rises in accordance with the liquid detergent level, and the arm 33 rotates upward around the pivot shaft 32. The liquid detergent level in the detergent tank 30 can be detected by detecting the position of the magnetic body with a magnetic sensor. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3, when the detergent tank 15 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 14, the magnetic sensor does not detect the magnetism of the magnetic body, making it possible to detect that the detergent tank 15 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0061] The magnetic sensor may be, for example, a plurality of Hall elements provided near the positions of magnetic bodies corresponding to a plurality of liquid levels of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15. This allows for more accurate detection of the liquid detergent level. The magnetic sensor may be a sensor capable of detecting the magnetism of a magnetic body using any method, such as a magnetoresistance element or a magnetic impedance element.

[0062] The magnetic sensor is mounted on the side of the detergent tank storage section 14 that is farther from the control device 19. This can reduce the influence of the magnetic field generated in the electric circuit of the control device 19, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the magnetic sensor.

[0063] A detergent discharge port 152 is provided at the bottom end of the side surface of the detergent tank 15 at the rear side in the insertion / removal direction. A main body check valve 141 is provided at a position where the detergent discharge port 152 of the detergent tank 15 abuts when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14. When the detergent pump 16 operates, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 is supplied into the washing tub 1 via the detergent discharge port 152, the main body check valve 141, and the detergent pump 16. The inner bottom surface of the detergent tank 15 is inclined so that it descends toward the detergent discharge port 152.

[0064] Fig. 8 is a schematic front view showing a state in which the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank housing section 14. Fig. 9 is a schematic front view showing a state in which the detergent tank 15 is being housed in the detergent tank housing section 14 or is being pulled out.

[0065] The schematic front view of FIG. 8 shows a cross section of the detergent tank 15. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, waves are generated in the liquid detergent when the washing tub 1 is pulled out from the housing 2 or when the detergent tank 15 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 14. In order to cancel out these waves, the dishwasher of this embodiment is provided with a float 30 made of a material that floats on the liquid detergent. Experiments conducted by the inventors have revealed that the float 30, which floats on the surface of the liquid detergent and cancels out the waves, can reduce the waves generated in the liquid detergent compared to when the float 30 is not provided. This prevents the liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 15 or from adhering to surrounding components and solidifying when using the dishwasher or refilling the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent.

[0066] The float 30 may be made of thermoplastic resin, metal, or the like. If the float 30 is made of metal, a cavity may be provided inside the float 30 to allow it to float in the liquid detergent. The float 30 and the arm 33 may be formed integrally, or may be formed separately and joined together. The arm 33 may be detachably supported on a rotating shaft 32 provided on the cover 31 of the detergent tank 15. In this case, the user can remove the arm 33 and the float 30 from the cover 31 and wash them. The arm 33 may be formed integrally with the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30.

[0067] Arm 33 is configured so that float 30 rotates in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which washing tub 1 is inserted into or removed from housing 2. Detergent inlet 153 is located at a position outside the position directly above the range in which arm 33 rotates. By positioning detergent inlet 153 in this manner, a user can easily add detergent through detergent inlet 153 without being obstructed by float 30, regardless of the position of float 30. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, when no liquid detergent is stored in detergent tank 15, float 30 and arm 33 hang vertically downward due to their own weight and are located at their lowest point. When liquid detergent is stored in detergent tank 15, float 30 rises according to the liquid detergent level, and arm 33 rotates upward around pivot shaft 32. At this time, for example, float 30 rotates forward by approximately 50°, as shown in Figure 6.

[0068] When using a highly viscous liquid detergent, the sliding resistance between the arm 33 and the float 30 increases, so if the detergent is poured in so that it flows in from the opposite direction to the direction in which the float 30 rotates, it may be difficult for the float to follow the fluctuations in the liquid level. Also, a load is likely to be applied to the float 30 and the arm 33, which may cause the float 30 to stop moving. Therefore, in this embodiment, the detergent pouring port 153 is provided on the back side of the detergent tank 15, opposite to the front side in which the float 30 rotates. With this configuration, the pouring The flow direction of the liquid detergent and the rotation direction of the float 30 are not opposed to each other, and the sliding resistance on the float 30 is unlikely to increase even when liquid detergent is poured into the detergent inlet 153. This prevents the float 30 from erroneously detecting fluctuations in the liquid level.

[0069] Furthermore, the arm 33 is connected to the end of the float 30 that is opposite the direction in which the float 30 rotates in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15. When configured in this manner, the length of the arm 33 is maximized. By making the arm length as long as possible in this manner, the distance that the float 30 rotates in an arc is maximized, that is, the sliding range of the float 30 is maximized. Therefore, the range of liquid levels that the float 30 can detect can be made wider compared to when the arm 33 is connected to the center of the float 30 or the end on the side in the direction of rotation.

[0070] The pivot shaft 32 supporting the arm 33 is located near the center in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15. The arm 33 is connected to the rear end of the float 30, that is, on the opposite side of the depth direction of the detergent tank 15 from the front side in which the float 30 rotates. Therefore, when the float 30 and arm 33 are hanging down vertically due to their own weight, the float 30 is located closer to the front than the center.

[0071] Figure 7 is a partially enlarged perspective view showing the detergent tank 15 stored in the detergent tank storage section 14. As shown in Figure 7, a message section 35 directed to the user may be provided on the cover 31 on the top surface of the detergent tank 15. The message section 35 may be located in a position on the cover 31 that is visible to the user, but it is particularly effective if it is displayed on the front side of the detergent tank 15, as this will be visible to the user whenever the user pulls out the detergent tank 15.

[0072] The content written in the message section 35 may be a warning message regarding the detergent tank 15, or may be any other message intended for the user. The message may be displayed by a sticker, or by printing or engraving letters on the cover 31 itself.

[0073] In this embodiment, message section 35 is provided on the front side of cover 31 on the top surface of detergent tank 15, and detergent inlet 153 is provided on the back side thereof. Therefore, when a user pulls out detergent tank 15, message section 35 is always visible.

[0074] When the message section 35 for the user is provided on the cover 31, the detergent inlet 153 is located at the rear. Therefore, due to the above relationship, the float 30 is configured to rotate toward the front first. The arm 33 is connected to the rear end of the float, opposite the direction of rotation of the float 30. The float 30 itself is located closer to the front than the center in the depth direction when suspended vertically downward.

[0075] Therefore, when a user wants to add detergent through the detergent inlet 153 at the back of the detergent tank 15, they first pull the detergent tank 15 toward the front, check the message section 35, and then open the detergent container lid 154. Then, they start adding detergent. At this time, there is nothing obstructing the detergent inlet 153, so the user can easily add detergent. After adding detergent, the float 30 rotates upward toward the front.

[0076] When detergent is dispensed, the float 30 and arm 33 are not splashed with detergent, so they do not interfere with dispensing, and it is possible to avoid an increase in the sliding resistance of the float 30 and arm 33 and the float 30 having difficulty following fluctuations in the liquid level. This makes it less likely for the float 30 to falsely detect the detergent and less likely to cause a malfunction.

[0077] The float 30 rotates approximately 0-50° toward the front from a state in which the float 30 and arm 33 hang down vertically due to their own weight. At this time, a stopper rib 36 is provided on the back surface of the cover 31 of the detergent tank 15. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15 as shown in Figure 6, the float 30 is positioned in an upwardly rotated position and does not abut against the stopper rib 36. When liquid detergent is not stored in the detergent tank 15 as shown in Figure 5, the float 30 hangs down vertically due to its own weight and abuts against the stopper rib 36, maintaining a stationary state.

[0078] When the washing tank 1 is inserted into or removed from the housing 2, or when the detergent tank 15 is inserted into or removed from the detergent tank storage section 14, waves and vibrations occur in the direction of insertion or removal. If the float 30 abuts against the stopper rib 36, the float 30 is stopped by the stopper rib 36 and does not rotate beyond the stopper rib 36. This makes it possible to suppress the effects of waves and vibrations on liquid level detection.

[0079] This stopper rib 36 is disposed between the arm 33 and the detergent inlet 153, and in particular is disposed on the opposite side of the arm 33 from the float 30 and the opposite side of the rotation direction of the float 30. In this embodiment, the detergent inlet 153 is on the rear side and the rotation direction of the float 30 is on the front side, so the stopper rib 36 is provided near the center of the detergent tank and on the rear side of the arm 33.

[0080] In particular, when the float 30 is stationary due to the stopper rib 36, it is desirable that the arm 33 hangs vertically downward, with the float 30 positioned at its lowest point. This configuration makes it possible to maximize the sliding range of the float 30 within a range that is meaningful for liquid level detection.

[0081] The cover 31 of the detergent tank 15 may be provided with an air vent that communicates with the outside. The cover 31 is provided to cover the opening of the detergent tank 15 airtightly and liquidtightly. Therefore, when liquid detergent is discharged from the detergent tank 15, negative pressure may be created inside the detergent tank 15, which may hinder smooth discharge of the liquid detergent. By providing the air vent, outside air can be allowed to flow into the detergent tank 15 through the air vent when the liquid detergent is discharged from the detergent tank 15, thereby preventing negative pressure from being created inside the detergent tank 15. This improves the reliability of the amount of liquid detergent supplied from the detergent tank 15 to the washing tub 1.

[0082] If liquid detergent adheres to the atmosphere vent and solidifies, the atmosphere vent will be blocked, reducing the ability of the detergent tank 15 to allow outside air to flow into the detergent tank 15, which may prevent the detergent tank 15 from supplying an appropriate amount of liquid detergent to the washing tub 1. To solve this problem, in the dishwasher of this embodiment, the atmosphere vent is provided on the cover 31 above the range of movement of the float 30. As a result, even when the level of liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 is high and the liquid detergent is likely to splash up from the liquid surface and get onto the atmosphere vent, the float 30 rises to the surface of the liquid directly below the atmosphere vent and counteracts the waves of liquid detergent, thereby preventing the liquid detergent from getting onto the atmosphere vent.

[0083] The protrusion 34 shown in Figure 5 and other figures is provided so that at least a portion of the float 30 or the arm 33 comes close to or abuts against the protrusion 34 when the float 30 moves upward. When the liquid level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 is high, the float 30 rotates to a height where the upper end of the float 30 abuts against the protrusion 34, as shown in Figure 6. This allows the protrusion 34 to be positioned to suppress the wobble of the float 30 even in situations where waves are generated in the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15, making it difficult to measure the liquid level. The protrusion 34 may also be provided so that it comes close to or abuts against at least a portion of another member that moves with the float 30 when the float 30 moves upward.

[0084] A method in which a float moves along a vertical guide can also detect the liquid detergent level and potentially achieve a wave-damping effect. However, when using a highly viscous liquid detergent, the sliding resistance between the guide and the float increases, making it difficult for the float to follow fluctuations in the liquid level. Furthermore, when the liquid detergent level drops, the liquid detergent adhering between the guide and the float may solidify, preventing the float from moving. Furthermore, if the detergent tank is shallow, the float's range of movement is narrow, making it impossible to precisely detect the liquid level.

[0085] According to the configuration of this embodiment, the arm 33 is supported by the pivot shaft 32 provided above the liquid detergent surface, and the float 30 is rotated according to the liquid level, which reduces the possibility that the float 30 will become stuck due to the liquid detergent solidifying between the pivot shaft 32 and the arm 33. Furthermore, since the float 30 is displaced both horizontally and vertically according to the liquid level, the liquid level can be detected more accurately.

[0086] In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a rotation shaft 32 is provided parallel to the direction in which washing tub 1 is inserted or removed from housing 2, detergent tank 15 is inserted in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which washing tub 1 is inserted or removed from housing 2, and float 30 is configured to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which washing tub 1 is inserted or removed from housing 2. As a result, when washing tub 1 is inserted or removed from housing 2, waves generated in the insertion / removal direction can be effectively counteracted by float 30, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmosphere vent, rotation shaft 32, fitting portion of arm 33, etc. When detergent tank 15 is inserted or removed from detergent tank storage section 14, waves generated in the insertion / removal direction can also be counteracted by float 30, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmosphere vent, rotation shaft 32, fitting portion of arm 33, etc.

[0087] In another example, the rotation shaft 32 may be provided parallel to the direction in which the detergent tank 15 is inserted into or removed from the detergent tank housing portion 14, and the float 30 may be configured to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the detergent tank 15 is inserted into or removed from the detergent tank housing portion 14. This allows the float 30 to effectively cancel waves that occur in the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is inserted into or removed from the detergent tank housing portion 14, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmosphere vent, the rotation shaft 32, the fitting portion of the arm 33, etc., and also preventing liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 15 when a user refills the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent. When the washing tub 1 is inserted into or removed from the housing 2, the float 30 can also cancel waves that occur in the direction in which the detergent tank 15 is inserted into or removed from the housing 2, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmosphere vent, the rotation shaft 32, the fitting portion of the arm 33, etc.

[0088] [Check valve configuration and detergent supply path] As shown in Fig. 9, detergent discharge port 152 of detergent tank 15 has tank-side check valve 151 at the left end of the bottom of the detergent tank. In other words, detergent discharge port 152 is provided at the tip of tank-side check valve 151, and detergent in detergent tank 15 is discharged from detergent discharge port 152. Fig. 9 is a schematic side view of detergent tank 15 in the middle of being stored in or pulled out of detergent tank storage section 14, and Fig. 10 is a schematic view of detergent tank 15 and main body-side check valve 141 in Fig. 9.

[0089] On the other hand, the detergent tank storage section 14 has a main body-side check valve 141 that engages with the tank-side check valve 151 of the detergent discharge port 152. Here, the main body-side check valve 141 and the detergent pump 16 are connected at the end opposite to the end that engages with the tank-side check valve 151. When the main body-side check valve 141 of the detergent tank storage section 14 engages with the tank-side check valve 151 and the claws 158 fit into the claw receivers on the inner surface of the detergent tank storage section 14, the detergent tank 15 is completely stored in the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0090] As shown in Figure 10, when the detergent tank 15 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 14, the main body side check valve 141 and the tank side check valve 151 are independent. In this state, the main body side check valve 141 and the tank side check valve 151 are configured so that the detergent is blocked at the tip of the check valve by ring-shaped packings attached to the tip of the check valve inner cylinder of each, and the detergent does not leak out when they are independent. This will be explained in detail below using Figures 18 to 20.

[0091] Fig. 18 is a side cross-sectional view when only the tips of the outer cylinders of the tank-side check valve 151 and the main body-side check valve 141 are biased. Fig. 19 is a side cross-sectional view when the inner cylinders of the tank-side check valve 151 and the main body-side check valve 141 are biased and sealed. Fig. 20 is a side cross-sectional view when the detergent flow path is opened between the tank-side check valve 151 and the main body-side check valve 141 and engagement is complete.

[0092] The tank-side check valve 151 and the main body-side check valve 141 are cylindrical, and each has an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder covered by the outer cylinder.

[0093] First, we will explain the inner cylinder 502 and outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151. A ring-shaped packing 504 is attached to the tip of the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151, and a seal is formed by the inner surface of the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 and the ring-shaped packing 504 of the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151 coming into close contact with each other. The diameter of the inner surface of the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 is basically wider than the diameter of the outer surface of the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151, so a hollow passage 505 is formed between the outer cylinder 501 and the inner cylinder 502. However, when the tank-side check valve 151 is in an independent state, the ring-shaped gasket 504 provided at the tip of the inner tube 502 of the tank-side check valve 151 abuts only on the inner surface of the outer tube 501 of the tank-side check valve 151, where it abuts, and the inner surface of the outer tube of the tank-side check valve 151 has a recess 503 that narrows toward the radial center, so the gasket only fits tightly when the check valve is independent.

[0094] Furthermore, liquid detergent fills passage 505 between outer cylinder 501 and inner cylinder 502 of tank-side check valve 151. When the check valve is independent, the detergent filling passage 505 is blocked just before recess 503 and ring-shaped packing 504. Inner cylinder 502 of tank-side check valve 151 is equipped with an elastic body such as a spring, and when detergent tank 15 is inserted into detergent tank storage section 14, it is pushed by inner cylinder 402 of main body-side check valve 141, causing the inner cylinder of tank-side check valve 151 to expand and contract.

[0095] On the other hand, the inner tube 402 of the main body-side check valve 141 shown in Figure 10 is hollow, and liquid detergent is stored in the hollow portion of the inner tube. When the main body-side check valve 141 is in an independent state, only the tip 142 of the inner tube 402 is visible. The inner tube 402 of the main body-side check valve 141 has a detergent inlet hole 403 in part of its side. The detergent inlet hole 403 is connected to the hollow portion of the inner tube 402 of the main body-side check valve 141. A ring-shaped packing 404 is attached to the inner tube 402 of the main body-side check valve 141 at a tip thereof beyond the detergent inlet hole 403, and a seal is formed by the inner surface of the outer tube 401 of the main body-side check valve 141 and the ring-shaped packing 404 of the inner tube 402 of the main body-side check valve 141 coming into close contact with each other. Two ring-shaped gaskets 404 are provided, one on each side of detergent inlet hole 403. Therefore, when the check valves are independent, the detergent filling the area around detergent inlet hole 403 is blocked just before it reaches the gaskets. Outer cylinder 401 of main body-side check valve 141 is provided with an elastic body such as a spring, and when detergent tank 15 is inserted into detergent tank storage section 14, the outer cylinder of main body-side check valve 141 is pushed by the outer cylinder of tank-side check valve 151, causing the outer cylinder to expand and contract.

[0096] Next, the movement of the check valve when the tank side check valve 151 and the main body side check valve 141 engage with each other When the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, first, the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 and the outer cylinder 401 of the main body-side check valve 141 are fitted together, as shown in Figure 18. The outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 presses against the outer cylinder 401 of the main body-side check valve 141, causing it to contract.

[0097] When the detergent tank 15 is inserted further back, the outer cylinder 401 of the main body-side check valve 141 shrinks further, and the outer cylinder 401 is pushed further back than the ring-shaped packing 404 at the tip of the inner cylinder 402, revealing the detergent inlet hole 403 of the main body-side check valve 141 (see Figure 19). At the same time, the inner cylinder 402 of the main body-side check valve 141 pushes and shrinks the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151, and the ring-shaped packing 504 at the tip of the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151 is pushed back further forward than the recess 503 of the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151, revealing the passage 505 filled with liquid detergent between the outer cylinder of the tank-side check valve 151 and the inner cylinder of the tank-side check valve 151.

[0098] When the detergent tank 15 is inserted all the way, the detergent inlet hole 403 exposed from the main body-side check valve 141 communicates with the path 505 filled with detergent that has been pushed back and exposed, and the liquid detergent that had filled the tank-side check valve 151 flows into the detergent inlet hole 403 of the main body-side check valve 141, and the liquid detergent is supplied to the main body (see FIG. 20). In this way, when the inserted detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank housing section 14, the engagement between the main body-side check valve 141 and the tank-side check valve 151 forms a path for transporting liquid detergent from the detergent discharge port 152 to the detergent tank housing section 14 side.

[0099] Next, a method for sealing the check valves together will be described. When tank-side check valve 151 is pushed in, outer cylinder 401 of the main body-side check valve is pushed and contracts, causing ring-shaped gasket 404 attached to the tip of main body-side check valve 141 to protrude. This protruding ring-shaped gasket 404 is then pressed against the inner surface of outer cylinder 501 of tank-side check valve 151, which has been pushed in and expanded, thereby sealing the check valves together (see FIGS. 19 and 20). Two ring-shaped gaskets 404 are provided at the tip of main body-side check valve 141, and as the ring-shaped gasket attached to the farthest side in the depth direction of detergent tank 15 advances further into the cylindrical hole of outer cylinder 501 of tank-side check valve 151, the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole becomes smaller than the inlet, forming a tapered shape.

[0100] When the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole decreases to a certain value, the inner diameter becomes constant. When the ring-shaped packing 404 provided at the back reaches a position where the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole becomes constant, the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole of the outer tube 501 becomes smaller than the diameter of the packing 404, and the packing is forced into a hole with a diameter smaller than its own diameter. In this way, the outer tube 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 and the inner tube 401 of the main body-side check valve 141 are pressed together and sealed. A vacuum is maintained between the sealed check valves.

[0101] Here, if the range over which the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole in outer cylinder 501 of tank-side check valve 151 is constant is wide, or if the tip of the inner surface of outer cylinder 501 is configured without a flared angle toward the back or at a small angle, tank-side check valve 151 is pressed into main body-side check valve 141 and immediately biased, creating a vacuum, so that the valves are less likely to come apart immediately after tank-side check valve 151 is pressed in. With this configuration, even if the detergent tank 15 is not inserted firmly, the valves are biased against each other, preventing detergent leakage.

[0102] In this way, the main body side check valve presses against and seals the tank side check valve, so that even when the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14 and detergent passes between the main body side check valve 141 and the tank side check valve 151, detergent can be prevented from leaking out from between the two check valves.

[0103] The configuration of this sealing portion is not limited to the above example, and may be such that the range where the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole is constant is narrow. Alternatively, the tip of the inner surface of the outer tube 501 may be configured to widen significantly toward the back. Alternatively, a hole for releasing the vacuum may be provided at the tip of the inner surface of the outer tube 501 of the tank-side check valve 151. In these cases, the tank-side check valve 151 does not immediately reach the range where the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole is constant after being pushed into the main body-side check valve 141, so the valves are not biased against each other by merely pushing the tank-side check valve 151 slightly. This configuration allows for quick removal when removing the detergent tank 15 or when temporarily storing the detergent tank 15 without completing its insertion, making it easy to handle.

[0104] [Tank side check valve locking configuration] According to this embodiment, the tank-side check valve 151 is detachable, and is fitted into an in-tank receiving port 159 in the detergent tank 15 .

[0105] As described above, the tank-side check valve 151 is detachable, so the user can clean it at will. In particular, the tank-side check valve 151 has a mesh-like foreign matter trapping section inside, and this mesh removes foreign matter and debris before supplying detergent to the main body-side check valve 141. Therefore, the user can not only keep the check valve itself clean, but also remove foreign matter from the foreign matter trapping section by removing the tank-side check valve 151 from the detergent tank 15.

[0106] When the tank-side check valve 151 is returned to the detergent tank 15 after being removed from the detergent tank 15, the tank-side check valve 151 is rotated like a cap to close and fix the check valve to the detergent tank 15, thereby preventing detergent from leaking out from between the tank-side check valve 151 and the in-tank receiving port 159. Hereinafter, the state in which the tank-side check valve 151 is fixed and closed to the in-tank receiving port 159 will be referred to as the check valve being locked.

[0107] In the unlikely event that a user removes the tank-side check valve 151 and then forgets to lock it, inserts the detergent tank 15 into the detergent tank storage part 14, and then pulls out the detergent tank storage part 14, the tank-side check valve 151 comes off, causing the detergent to leak out.

[0108] This locking mechanism is achieved by fitting the inclined protrusion 160 provided on the tank-side check valve 151 with the protrusion fitting hole provided at the tip of the tank receiving port 159. The inclined protrusion 160 is a protrusion with a radial slope, and this inclined protrusion 160 rotates from a lower slope to a higher slope. Meanwhile, the protrusion fitting hole has a slope at the end of the hole in the rotation direction of the inclined protrusion 160, from a higher slope to a lower slope, which is the opposite of the slope of the inclined protrusion 160. When the height of the increasing radial slope of the inclined protrusion 160 rotates to a position that exceeds the decreasing radial height of the protrusion fitting hole, the inclined protrusion 160 can no longer rotate, and the tank-side check valve 151 cannot move in the rotational, depth, or up-down directions, so that the tank-side check valve 151 is fixed to the tank receiving port 159.

[0109] Tank-side check valve 151 may be closed by the user, or as described below, it may be configured to lock automatically when the detergent tank is inserted and set. If an automatic locking mechanism is used, even if the user inserts the detergent tank without closing it after simply inserting the check valve, the check valve will automatically lock upon insertion, preventing detergent from leaking between tank-side check valve 151 and tank receiving port 159.

[0110] Specifically, in order to rotate the inclined protrusion 160, a part of the outer surface of the tank-side check valve 151 is The detergent tank housing 14 may be configured so that the opening 14a abuts against a part of the interior of the detergent tank housing 14.

[0111] In this embodiment, a valve tip protrusion 157 is provided at the detergent discharge port 152 at the tip of the tank side check valve 151, and by rotating the valve tip protrusion 157, the entire tank side check valve 151 rotates together with the inclined protrusion 160.

[0112] There may be one or more valve tip protrusions 157, but in this embodiment, multiple valve tip protrusions 157 are provided. Specifically, two are provided at positions approximately 180° apart on the outer peripheral surface of detergent discharge port 152. By providing two valve tip protrusions 157, when the user inserts tank side check valve 151, the protrusions engage at two points, doubling the probability of successful engagement compared to when there is only one protrusion, and reducing the effort required for insertion. Of course, there may be more than two valve tip protrusions 157.

[0113] 13, the valve tip projection 157 is formed in a flat plate shape that is perpendicular to the outer surface of the cylindrical tank-side check valve 151 and extends radially. The flat plate of the valve tip projection 157 is rectangular, and of the two radially outer corners of the rectangle, the corner on the far side is rounded to abut against a part inside the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0114] According to this embodiment, the valve tip protrusion 157 rotates by coming into contact with a part of the inner surface of the detergent tank housing portion 14. Specifically, a protruding rib is provided on the inner surface of the detergent tank housing portion 14. The valve tip protrusion 157 rotates due to this rib.

[0115] 11 is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 15 before the tank-side check valve 151 is attached, and FIG. 12 is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 15 after the tank-side check valve 151 is attached. In this way, the tank-side check valve 151 is attached or detached.

[0116] When the valve tip protrusion 157 rotates due to the rib, if the rib is formed in a shape that matches the shape of the tip of the tank side check valve, the tank side check valve 151 and the valve tip protrusion 157 can be inserted smoothly even while rotating.

[0117] In this embodiment, since detergent discharge port 152 is cylindrical, the inner surface of the rib is formed in a curved shape to fit the cylindrical shape. Furthermore, the action of tank-side check valve 151 being pushed in and the action of valve tip protrusion 157 abutting against the rib occur simultaneously. In other words, since valve tip protrusion 157 needs to rotate while moving toward the back, the rib is formed in a three-dimensional spiral shape that curves more sharply as it moves toward the back. This spiral rib 143 has a spiral-shaped step portion 144 and a curved inner surface 145.

[0118] When the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, the detergent tank 15 slides toward the rear, and at the same time, the valve tip protrusion 157 rotates while abutting against the spiral rib 143. In particular, the spiral rib 143 has a spiral-shaped step 144 that curves downward and widens significantly as it moves toward the rear in the depth direction. Therefore, when the tank-side check valve 151 is pushed in, the valve tip protrusion 157, which was located at the top, is guided and rotates downward while abutting against the spiral-shaped step 144. When the valve tip protrusion 157 reaches the rear end of the spiral rib 143, the inclined protrusion 160 has rotated to a position where it fits into the protrusion fitting hole, and the tank-side check valve 151 is locked into the tank receiving port 159.

[0119] That is, the spiral rib 143 is arranged so that the rear end of the spiral rib 143 is positioned when the tank-side check valve 151 is in a position where it is biased against the main body-side check valve 141. In this embodiment, the spiral rib 143 is positioned on the inner surface of the detergent tank storage section 14, The detergent tank is formed on the front side and on the rear side in the depth direction of the detergent tank.

[0120] The state in which the detergent tank 15 is inserted and the spiral rib 143 rotates is shown in the order of, for example, FIGS. 13, 14, and 7. FIG.

[0121] Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the valve tip projection 157 just before it abuts against the front end of the spiral rib 143 and is guided by the step 144 to rotate downward. Fig. 14 is a perspective view of the valve tip projection 157 in the middle of abutting against the step 144 and being guided to rotate downward. Fig. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion near the tank-side check valve 151 and the spiral rib 143.

[0122] In this way, if the tank-side check valve 151 is configured to automatically close on the detergent tank 15 at the same time as the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, it is possible to prevent detergent from leaking between the tank-side check valve 151 and the tank receiving port 159 even if the user does not insert the check valve properly or inserts it while forgetting to close it.

[0123] In this embodiment, the tank-side check valve 151 is configured to automatically lock when rotated by the valve tip protrusion 157, but this is not limiting as long as the locking configuration prevents detergent from leaking. For example, the tank-side check valve 151 may be configured to be locked by a single touch when pressed into a fitting portion provided in the tank receiving port 159, or may be rotated by a different means, such as a screw-type valve like the one on the edge of a cap, instead of a valve tip protrusion.

[0124] In this embodiment, the tank-side check valve 151 and the main body-side check valve 141 are engaged and actuated after the tank-side check valve 151 is locked and liquid detergent does not leak from the detergent tank 15. However, this order may be different.

[0125] [How to control the cleaning device] The control device 19 is realized by hardware such as a microcomputer, a microcontroller, or an integrated circuit.

[0126] The control device 19 includes a process control unit, a detection result acquisition unit, a liquid level determination unit, a detergent tank storage determination unit, a liquid delivery control unit, a notification unit, a leaving time acquisition unit, a target liquid delivery amount determination unit, and a memory. These components are realized in hardware by a CPU, memory, or other LSI of any computer, and in software by a program loaded into memory, but the functional blocks shown here are realized by the cooperation of these components. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways, such as by hardware alone or a combination of hardware and software.

[0127] The process control unit controls the washing operation of the dishwasher. The process control unit receives instructions from the user via the operation unit of the dishwasher and controls the washing operation in accordance with the instructions. The process control unit may perform the washing, rinsing, and drying processes consecutively, may perform only one of the processes, or may perform a combination of two or more of the processes in any order.

[0128] The detection result acquisition unit acquires the detection result from the magnetic sensor. As described above, the magnetic sensor detects the magnetism of the magnetic body provided on the float 30.

[0129] The liquid level determination unit determines whether the detergent tank 15 is filled with the detergent based on the detection result acquired by the detection result acquisition unit. The liquid level determination unit may determine the position of the magnetic body based on magnetism detected by a plurality of Hall elements installed at different positions, and determine the liquid level of the liquid detergent based on the determined position of the magnetic body, for example.

[0130] The detergent tank storage determination unit determines whether or not the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 14 based on the detection result acquired by the detection result acquisition unit. When the detection result acquisition unit acquires a detection result indicating that the magnetic sensor has detected the magnetism of a magnetic body, the detergent tank storage determination unit determines that the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 14. When the detection result acquisition unit acquires a detection result indicating that the magnetic sensor has not detected the magnetism of a magnetic body, the detergent tank storage determination unit determines that the detergent tank 15 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 14.

[0131] The liquid delivery control unit controls the detergent pump 16 to deliver the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 1. As will be described later, the liquid delivery control unit controls the detergent pump 16 so that the amount of liquid detergent determined by the liquid delivery target amount determination unit is supplied to the washing tank 1. When delivery of the amount of liquid detergent determined by the liquid delivery target amount determination unit is completed, the liquid delivery control unit records the liquid delivery end time in memory.

[0132] When the detergent tank storage determination unit determines that the detergent tank 15 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 14, the liquid delivery control unit controls the detergent pump 16 not to deliver liquid detergent from the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 1. This prevents the washing process from being performed without detergent being supplied to the washing tank 1. It also prevents air from being sent into the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 1, which would prevent the target amount of detergent from being properly delivered to the washing tank 1 the next time washing is performed.

[0133] [Effects of the first embodiment] The cleaning device according to the first embodiment can achieve the following effects.

[0134] The dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a housing 2, a washing tub 1 provided within the housing 2 for containing items to be washed, and a detergent tank 15 for storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tub 1, the detergent tank 15 having a detergent inlet 152 for pouring the liquid detergent into the detergent tank 15, a floating body that floats within the liquid detergent provided within the detergent tank 15 via an arm 33, the arm 33 being pivotally supported within the detergent tank 15 by a pivot shaft 32, and the detergent inlet 152 being provided at a position that is not directly above the range within which the arm 33 rotates.

[0135] With this configuration, when the user pours detergent, the float and arm 33 do not get in the way, making it easy to pour detergent in. Furthermore, with this arrangement, detergent is not poured from above the rotating arm 33, which prevents the float and arm 33 from increasing in sliding resistance and the float from being difficult to follow fluctuations in the liquid level. This makes it less likely that false detection of the float will occur, and less likely to induce malfunctions.

[0136] In the dishwasher according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, when arm 33 is suspended vertically downward and positioned at the lowest point, arm 33 is connected at the end opposite the end in the rotation direction of the float in the depth direction of detergent tank 15.

[0137] With this configuration, the arm length can be made as long as possible, thereby increasing the sliding range of the float 30. Therefore, the range of liquid levels that the float 30 can detect can be increased.

[0138] In the dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the detergent inlet 153 is The detergent inlet 153 is provided on the inner side of the detergent tank 15 from the center in the depth direction.

[0139] If the detergent inlet 153 is located at the front, a lazy person may pour detergent into the detergent tank when it is only partially pulled out, which could put a strain on the detergent tank storage section 14, cause the detergent tank 15 to fall, or spill the detergent. However, with this configuration, the user pulls the detergent tank 15 all the way out when pouring detergent into the detergent tank 15, preventing the above-mentioned accidents.

[0140] In the dishwasher according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, the pivot shaft 32 is located near the center in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15, and when the float is located at the lowest point, the float is located forward of the center in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15 via the arm 33.

[0141] With this configuration, the length of the arm 33 is maintained, and the float 30 and the arm 33 are not positioned directly below the detergent inlet 153, so the user can easily add detergent.

[0142] In the dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the outer top surface of detergent tank 15 has message section 35 facing the user, located closer to the front than the center in the depth direction of detergent tank 15.

[0143] With this configuration, when the user pulls out the detergent tank 15, the message section 35 located in front of the detergent inlet 153 can be reliably confirmed.

[0144] In the dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the message section 35 is a sticker with a message calling attention to the detergent tank 15.

[0145] With this configuration, when the user pulls out the detergent tank 15, the user can reliably check the warning message section 35 before adding detergent.

[0146] In the dishwasher according to embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, the top surface of the detergent tank 15 has a stopper rib 36 on the back side, and the stopper rib 36 is positioned between the arm 33 and the detergent inlet 153 in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15. When the level of liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 drops, the float rotates downward, and the arm 33 abuts against the stopper rib 36, the float is positioned at its lowest point.

[0147] With this configuration, the float 30 is not rotated further back than the stopper rib 36, which reduces the effects of waves and vibrations on liquid level detection. Also, the sliding range of the float 30 can be maximized within the range that is meaningful for liquid level detection.

[0148] In the dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the float is rotatable in the direction opposite to the stopper rib 36 in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15.

[0149] With this configuration, the sliding range of the float 30 can be maximized within the range that is meaningful for liquid level detection.

[0150] (Embodiment 2) The second embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 16 and 17. The configuration is roughly the same as that of the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0151] [Configuration around the detergent tank] Fig. 16 is a front cross-sectional view of the detergent tank 15 and its vicinity when a removable tray 200 is placed under the bottom surface of the detergent tank 15. Fig. 17 is a schematic perspective view of the detergent tank 15 and its vicinity when the tray 200 is placed.

[0152] In the second embodiment, the dishwasher is provided with a plate-shaped tray 200 on the bottom surface of detergent tank 15 in detergent tank storage section 14. By providing tray 200, even if detergent leaks from detergent tank 15, check valve, or tank receiving port 159, the tray can catch the detergent without dripping inside the dishwasher. Furthermore, although it is difficult for a user to wipe up detergent that has leaked into dishwasher 1, tray 200 makes it easy for the user to wipe it up.

[0153] Of course, when installing the tray 200, the dishwasher does not need to be equipped with a removable check valve as in embodiment 1, and it can also be useful for catching detergent that drips from the detergent tank 15 when detergent is added, or for cleaning the area below the detergent tank 15 and keeping it clean.

[0154] The edge of the tray 200 has multiple steps. In particular, in this embodiment, the edge of the tray 200 is divided into three height levels, having a first height 201, a second height 202, and a third height 203. The third height 203 located at the back in the depth direction is the highest, followed by the second height 202 located in the middle, and the first height 201 located at the frontmost side is the lowest. These edges are provided on both sides of the tray.

[0155] Experiments have shown that if the height of the edge of the tray 200 is configured to be a uniform height so as to engage with the detergent tank 15, when the detergent tank 15 is pulled out, the tray 200 will stick to it and be pulled out together. Therefore, by configuring the tray edge at multiple heights as in this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the tray 200 from being unintentionally pulled out together with the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is pulled out towards you.

[0156] The edge of the rear side of the tray 200, sandwiched between the two third heights 203 provided on both sides of the tray 200, is It is configured in a shape that allows the tip of the tank-side check valve 151 to fit into it. In this embodiment, since the tip of the tank-side check valve 151 is cylindrical, the side surface on the far side is formed with a curved edge 204, which allows the tip of the tank-side check valve 151 to fit easily.

[0157] Furthermore, a spiral rib 143 for rotating the valve tip protrusion 157 may be formed on the tray 200. In particular, the spiral rib 143 may be provided on one side of the second height 202 or the third height 203, and configured to rotate the valve tip protrusion 157 when the detergent tank 15 is stored. Furthermore, when the spiral rib 143 is provided on the edge of the tray 200, the rib 143 does not have to be spiral, and may be any protrusion with a shape that allows the valve tip protrusion 157 to rotate.

[0158] However, the invention is not limited to these examples, and the spiral rib 143 may have any configuration as long as it can rotate the valve tip protrusion 157. Furthermore, if there are multiple valve tip protrusions, it may have any configuration as long as it can rotate one or more of the multiple protrusions.

[0159] [Effects of the second embodiment] The cleaning device according to the second embodiment can provide the following effects.

[0160] The dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a housing 2, a washing tub 1 provided within the housing 2 for accommodating items to be washed, and a detergent tank 15 for storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tub 1, the detergent tank 15 being removable from a detergent tank storage section 14 within the housing 2, the detergent tank storage section 14 having a plate-shaped tray 200 on its bottom surface, and the detergent tank 15 being placed on the tray 200.

[0161] With this configuration, even if detergent leaks from detergent tank 15 or check valve, the tray can catch the detergent without dripping into the dishwasher. Also, while it is difficult for a user to wipe up detergent that has leaked into dishwasher 1, tray 200 makes it easy for the user to wipe it off and perform regular cleaning.

[0162] In the dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, tray 200 is detachable and has edges with multiple levels of height.

[0163] With this configuration, even if detergent leaks from the detergent tank 15 or the check valve, the detergent can be caught by the tray 200 without dripping into the dishwasher. Also, if the tray 200 becomes dirty, the user can pull out the tray 200 and easily wipe or clean it. And even if detergent leaks into the tray 200, the height of the edge prevents the detergent from leaking outside the tray.

[0164] In the dishwasher according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the edge of tray 200 becomes higher toward the back in the depth direction of detergent tank 15.

[0165] With this configuration, even if detergent leaks into the tray 200, the edge has height to prevent the detergent from leaking out of the tray. Also, because the edge on the rear side of the tray 200 is configured to be high, it is possible to prevent the tray 200 from being unintentionally pulled out together with the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is pulled out toward the front.

[0166] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. may be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents. [Industrial Applicability]

[0167] The present disclosure is applicable to cleaning devices that can use detergents, specifically to small tabletop dishwashers, large dishwashers incorporated into system kitchens, washing machines, and the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 1 Cleaning tank 1a opening 2. Case 3 Door body 4 Handle 5 First Rail 6 Second Rail 7 baskets 8. Tableware 9 Circulation Pump 10 Heater 11 Cleaning nozzle 12 Side wall 13 Front space 14 Detergent tank storage area 15 Detergent tank 16 Detergent pump 17 Cleaning tank detergent outlet 18 Detergent discharge path on the cleaning tank side 19 Control device 23 Plane part 24 Control section 25 Display section 30 float 31 Cover 32 Rotating shaft 33 Arm 34 Protrusion 35 Message section 36 Stopper Rib 37 Top protrusion 38 Step 141 Body side check valve 142 Tip of inner cylinder 143 Spiral Rib 144 Step 145 Inner surface 151 Tank side check valve 152 Detergent outlet 153 Detergent dispenser 154 Detergent container lid 155 Tank handle 156 Feeding auxiliary slope 157 Valve tip process 158 Nails 159 Tank receiving port 160 Inclined protrusion 200 trays 201 First Height 202 Second Height 203 Third Height 204 Curved Edge 401 Outer cylinder of the main body side check valve 141 402 Inner cylinder of main body side check valve 141 403 Detergent inlet 404 Ring-shaped packing 501 Outer cylinder of tank side check valve 151 502 Inner cylinder of tank side check valve 151 503 Depression 504 Ring-shaped packing 505 Passage

Claims

1. The housing and a cleaning tank provided in the housing and configured to accommodate an object to be cleaned; a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tank; Equipped with The detergent tank has a detergent inlet for pouring liquid detergent into the detergent tank, and a float that floats in the liquid detergent is provided in the detergent tank via an arm, The arm is pivotally supported in the detergent tank by a pivot shaft, The detergent inlet is provided at a position that is not directly above the range in which the arm rotates, The top surface of the detergent tank has a stopper rib on the back side, the stopper rib is disposed between the arm and the detergent inlet in the depth direction of the detergent tank, When the level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank drops, the float rotates downward, and the arm abuts against the stopper rib, the float is positioned at its lowest point.

2. When the arm is suspended vertically downward and positioned at the lowest point, The arm is connected at an end portion opposite to an end portion in a rotation direction of the float in a depth direction of the detergent tank.

2. The dishwasher of claim 1.

3. The detergent inlet is provided on the top surface of the detergent tank, The detergent inlet is provided on the inner side of the detergent tank from the center in the depth direction.

3. The dishwasher according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The rotation shaft is provided near the center in the depth direction of the detergent tank, When the float is positioned at the lowest point, the float is provided on the front side of the center of the detergent tank via the arm in the depth direction. The dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. a message section for a user on the outer surface of the top surface of the detergent tank, the message section being located closer to the user than the center in the depth direction of the detergent tank; The dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The content of the message portion is a sticker with content that calls attention to the detergent tank.

6. The dishwasher of claim 5.

7. The float is rotatable in a direction opposite to the stopper rib in the depth direction of the detergent tank. The dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

Images