Cleaning equipment

Abstract

To improve convenience in a washing device.SOLUTION: A washing device includes: a housing; a washing tank disposed in the housing and storing objects to be washed; a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent supplied into the washing tank; and a floating body floating in the liquid detergent. The floating body includes a fitting part 33a fitted to a cylindrical turning shaft 32 provided to a cover covering the detergent tank or the opening of the detergent tank. The fitting part 33a has a cylindrical shape an angle region of part of the side surface of which is notched. The fitting part 33a is structured so that the notched part thereof is oriented more upward than a horizontal direction when the floating body turns around the turning shaft in accordance with the liquid level of the liquid detergent.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cleaning device for cleaning an object to be cleaned. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, built-in dishwashers used in a system kitchen mainly have a configuration in which a washing tub having an openable and closable door at the front is fixed inside a housing.

[0003] However, in recent years, dishwashers in which a washing tub with an opening at the top is pulled out from a housing to contain and wash dishes have become mainstream (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] The dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 1 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 inserted and removed in the front-to-rear direction, a detergent inlet located outside the washing tub for adding detergent to the washing tub, and an insertion path that connects the detergent inlet to the washing tub. The detergent is added through the detergent inlet, which is located in a location independent of the washing tub. This allows the detergent to be reliably added regardless of the size or shape of the dishes placed in the washing tub.

[0005] Also, a dishwasher equipped with a detergent container in the washing tub has been disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

[0006] The dishwasher disclosed in Patent Document 2 has a detergent container that can be detachably or integrally attached to the inner wall of the washing tub. The detergent container is attached at approximately the same height as the wash water supply inlet on the inner wall of the washing tub, or at a position above the water supply inlet. This prevents the detergent from spilling, running off, or solidifying before starting to wash dishes, etc., and enables effective washing of dishes, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-135650 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-225087 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] However, in the dishwasher configuration of Patent Document 1, when detergent is poured into the upper opening, the detergent simply flows down into the washing tub. In other words, conventional dishwashers cannot store detergent. Therefore, when using the dishwasher, the user must pour the required amount of detergent into the washing tub each time.

[0009] Therefore, it is conceivable to detachably attach a detergent container to the inside of the washing tub as disclosed in Patent Document 2. However, the inventors recognized a problem in that when the washing tub is taken out or inserted, or when the detergent container is attached or detached, the liquid detergent contained in the detergent container may spill out or splash onto the detergent container or surrounding components and solidify.

[0010] The present disclosure is intended to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, and aims to improve the convenience of a cleaning device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention provides a cleaning device that includes a housing, a cleaning tub provided within the housing for accommodating items to be cleaned, a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the cleaning tub, and a float that floats within the liquid detergent. The float has a fitting portion that fits onto a cylindrical pivot shaft provided on the detergent tank or a cover that covers the opening of the detergent tank. The fitting portion has a cylindrical shape with a partial angular range of a side surface cut out in the axial direction. When the float rotates around the pivot shaft in response to the liquid detergent level, the cutout portion of the fitting portion faces upward relative to the horizontal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present disclosure, the convenience of the cleaning device can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher in a state where a washing tub is pulled out from a housing in a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher showing a state in which the detergent tank is being stored or pulled out. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the detergent tank housed therein. [Figure 4] 10 is a schematic side view of another example of a dishwasher in which the washing tub is pulled out from the housing in embodiment 1. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher with a detergent tank stored therein in a second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher in a state where the washing tub is pulled out from the housing in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of a dishwasher according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a partial enlarged view showing a state in which the detergent tank is housed in the detergent tank housing section. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a cross section of a detergent tank. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a cross section of a detergent tank. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a view showing the underside of the detergent tank cover. [Figure 16]FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating the relationship between an arm and a rotation axis. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a cross section of an arm and a rotation shaft. [Figure 18] 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a control device for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment; [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the viscosity of a liquid detergent measured by a rotational viscometer. [Figure 20] 4 is a flowchart showing the steps of a method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment. [Figure 21] 4 is a flowchart showing the steps of a method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating another example of the detergent tank. [Figure 23] FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating a cross section of a foreign matter capture section. [Figure 24] 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a state in which the foreign matter capturing section is attached to the detergent discharge port. FIG. [Figure 25] 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a cross section of the detergent tank when it is stored in the detergent tank storage section. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] (Embodiment 1) The general configuration of the dishwasher according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0015] Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher in accordance with embodiment 1, with washing tub 1 pulled out from housing 2. More specifically, Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of the dishwasher with washing tub 1 pulled out from housing 2 of the dishwasher.

[0016] The dishwasher of the first embodiment is a built-in dishwasher that is installed in a system kitchen, for example.

[0017] 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 1a 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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).

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] The door body 3 has a handle 4 provided at the top 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] The dishwasher of the first embodiment is configured as described above.

[0028] Next, the configuration around the detergent tank 15 of the dishwasher will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. FIG.

[0029] Fig. 2 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing a state in which detergent tank 15 is being stored or pulled out. Fig. 3 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing a state in which detergent tank 15 is stored.

[0030] 2 and 3, the detergent tank storage section 14 has a hollow space. This allows the detergent tank 15 to be stored so as to be freely taken out and put in the space of the detergent tank storage section 14. The detergent tank 15 is stored so as to be freely taken out and put in, for example, in the left-right direction (laterally) when viewed from the front (the front side of the door body 3).

[0031] As shown in FIG. 1, the detergent tank storage section 14 is located approximately below (including below) the flat surface 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The detergent tank 15 is configured as, for example, a bottle-shaped container for storing liquid detergent. Specifically, the detergent tank 15 is configured with a detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c, a detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, and a detergent container lid 15e.

[0038] The detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c, the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, and the detergent container lid 15e are integrally formed and configured to be detachable from the detergent tank 15. Therefore, when the detergent container lid 15e is removed from the detergent tank 15, the integrated detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c and the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d can also be removed from the detergent tank 15 at the same time. The tip of the detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, which sucks in the liquid detergent, extends to near the bottom of the detergent tank 15. This allows the liquid detergent to be sucked out of the detergent tank 15 until it is almost gone. This allows the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 to be used efficiently without waste.

[0039] Furthermore, when refilling the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent, the user first removes the detergent tank 15 from the detergent tank storage section 14. Then, the user removes the detergent dispenser lid section 15e from the detergent tank 15. This allows the user to easily refill the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent.

[0040] The above-described configuration of the detergent tank 15 allows liquid detergent to be supplied and stored in the detergent tank 15 outside the washing tank 1. This prevents the detergent from solidifying in the detergent tank 15 due to humidity, dryness, and other factors inside the washing tank 1 during washing. Furthermore, the volume of the washing tank 1 can be increased by the amount of the detergent tank 15 not being disposed. Furthermore, the user can easily attach and detach the detergent tank 15. Conventionally, a control board, such as an operation unit or display unit, was disposed between the washing tank and the door body, and the space other than the board was dead space. Therefore, in this embodiment, the detergent tank 15 is disposed in the dead space, side by side with the board in the left-right direction. This effectively utilizes the dead space, and the volume of the washing tank 1 can be increased by the amount of the detergent tank 15 not being disposed inside the washing tank 1 compared to conventional washing tanks.

[0041] 2, the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c of the detergent tank 15 has a convex portion 15f that protrudes laterally to the left side from the detergent container lid portion 15e. Meanwhile, the detergent tank storage portion 14 has a concave portion 14c that engages with the convex portion 15f of the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c. The concave portion 14c of the detergent tank storage portion 14 then engages with the convex portion 15f of the detergent container lid portion 15e. This completes the storage of the detergent tank 15 in the detergent tank storage portion 14.

[0042] The engagement between the recess 14c and the protrusion 15f forms a path for transferring liquid detergent from the detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c to the detergent tank housing portion side detergent discharge path 14b when the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank housing portion 14. Furthermore, the engagement between the protrusion 15f and the recess 14c allows the detergent tank 15 to be stably housed in the detergent tank housing portion 14.

[0043] The detergent tank housing section 14 also has a detergent tank housing section detergent outlet 14a provided in the recess 14c. One end of a detergent tank housing section detergent outlet 14b is disposed and connected to the detergent tank housing section detergent outlet 14a. Meanwhile, a detergent pump 16 is connected to the other end of the detergent tank housing section detergent outlet 14b. Furthermore, a washing tank section detergent outlet 18 is connected between the detergent pump 16 and a washing tank detergent outlet 17 (see FIG. 1) provided on the front surface of the washing tub 1. In other words, the detergent pump 16 is disposed midway along the detergent input path, which is between the other end of the detergent tank housing section detergent outlet 14b and the washing tank section detergent outlet 18.

[0044] As described above, the detergent tank 15 has the detergent tank detergent outlet 15c, which discharges liquid detergent, in the detergent tank housing section-side detergent discharge path 14b. The detergent tank housing section-side detergent discharge path 14b is connected to the detergent tank housing section 14. In other words, when the detergent tank 15 is housed in the detergent tank housing section 14, the detergent tank detergent outlet 15c is configured to be connected to the detergent tank housing section-side detergent discharge path 14b.

[0045] 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.

[0046] Specifically, control device 19 controls the drive rotation speed, drive time, etc. of detergent pump 16. As a result, when washing dishes 8, etc., a required amount of liquid detergent is sucked from detergent tank 15. The sucked liquid detergent is supplied into washing tub 1 via detergent tank detergent suction path 15d, detergent tank detergent discharge port 15c, detergent tank storage section detergent discharge port 14a, detergent tank storage section side detergent discharge path 14b, detergent pump 16, washing tub side detergent discharge path 18, and washing tub detergent discharge port 17 in that order. In other words, the system is configured to allow liquid detergent stored in detergent tank 15 to be transferred and supplied to washing tub 1.

[0047] 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.

[0048] The configuration of a dishwasher according to another example of the first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0049] FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of another example of a dishwasher in which washing tub 1 is pulled out from housing 2 in embodiment 1. As shown in FIG.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 4 , another example of a dishwasher has a transparent portion 15a provided on at least a portion of the side of the detergent tank 15. The transparent portion 15a allows the user to visually check the remaining amount of liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage portion 14. The transparent portion 15a also has a scale 15b that indicates 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 15a, even when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage portion 14. This allows the user to visually estimate how much liquid detergent is running low and when it is time to refill it. As a result, the user can easily pull out the detergent tank 15 and refill the liquid detergent at the appropriate time.

[0051] (Embodiment 2) The general configuration of the dishwasher according to the second embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.

[0052] Fig. 5 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher with detergent tank 15 stored in accordance with embodiment 2. Fig. 6 is a schematic side view of the dishwasher with washing tub 1 pulled out from housing 2 in accordance with embodiment 2.

[0053] 5 and 6, the dishwasher of embodiment 2 differs from embodiment 1 in the positions of operation panel 24 and display panel 25, and the configuration of handle 4. Other configurations are the same as those of embodiment 1, so a description of the overlapping configurations will be omitted.

[0054] That is, as shown in Figure 5, in the dishwasher of the second embodiment, the operation unit 24 and the display unit 25 are arranged on the upper front surface of the door body 3. The handle 4 is formed in a shape that is recessed toward the inside of the door body 3. As in the first embodiment, the operation unit 24 is operated by the user to set the wash course and turn the power on and off. The display unit 25 displays the washing status, operating status, time, etc.

[0055] The operating unit 24 and the display unit 25 in the second embodiment are provided on the front upper outer side of the washing tub 1, on the front side of the door body 3. As a result, as in the first embodiment, the user can operate the operating unit 24 from the front and above the washing tub 1, while simultaneously inserting or removing the detergent tank 15 from the left or right of the detergent tank storage compartment 14, for example.

[0056] As shown in Figure 6, either the operation unit 24 or the display unit 25 may be arranged on the planar portion 23 as in embodiment 1, and the other of the display unit 25 or the operation unit 24 may be arranged on the upper front surface of the door body 3.

[0057] Furthermore, a dishwasher may be constructed by freely combining the contents of embodiment 1 and embodiment 2 within the scope of the descriptions, thereby increasing the degree of freedom in design and versatility.

[0058] (Embodiment 3) Fig. 7 is a schematic side view of a dishwasher according to embodiment 3. The dishwasher according to embodiment 3 differs from embodiments 1 and 2 in the configuration of the detergent tank storage section and the detergent tank. Other configurations and operations are the same as those of embodiment 1 or 2. Differences from embodiments 1 and 2 will be mainly described.

[0059] A float 34, which is an example of a floating body that floats in the liquid detergent, is provided in the detergent tank 30 to suppress waves that occur in the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 when the detergent tank 30 is inserted into or removed from the washing tub 1 or the housing 2. The float 34 is pivotally supported by an arm 33 on a rotating shaft provided in the lid of the detergent tank 30. A magnetic body 35 is provided on the float 34.

[0060] The detergent tank 30 is housed so as to be freely removable in the detergent tank housing section 40. When washing is started with the detergent tank 30 housed in the detergent tank housing section 40, an appropriate amount of liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is sucked out by the detergent pump 16 and supplied into the washing tub 1 via the detergent tank housing section side detergent discharge path 43 and the washing tub side detergent discharge path 18.

[0061] A magnetic sensor 41 for detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 is provided on the side surface of the detergent tank storage section 40. When the magnetic sensor 41 detects the magnetism of the magnetic body 35, it is detected that the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 40.

[0062] Figures 8 to 11 are schematic front views of a dishwasher according to embodiment 3. Figure 8 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. Figure 9 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 40 and no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. Figure 10 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30. Figure 11 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher when the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 40 and liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30.

[0063] The float 34 is pivotally supported via an arm 33 on a pivot shaft 32 provided on a cover 31 that covers the opening of the detergent tank 30. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30, the float 34 and the arm 33 hang down vertically due to their own weight. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 30, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the float 34 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 35 with the magnetic sensor 41. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, when the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 40, the magnetic sensor 41 does not detect the magnetism of the magnetic body 35, so it can be detected that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 40.

[0064] The magnetic sensor 41 may be, for example, a plurality of Hall elements provided near positions of the magnetic body 35 corresponding to a plurality of liquid levels of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30. This allows for more accurate detection of the liquid detergent level. The magnetic sensor 41 may also be a sensor capable of detecting the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 using any method, such as a magnetoresistance element or a magnetic impedance element.

[0065] The magnetic sensor 41 may be provided on one of the sides of the detergent tank housing 40 that is farther from the control device 50. This reduces the influence of the magnetic field generated in the electrical circuit of the control device 50, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the magnetic sensor 41.

[0066] A detergent discharge port 37 is provided at the bottom end of the side surface of the detergent tank 30 at the rear side in the insertion / removal direction. A detergent receiving port 42 is provided in the detergent tank storage section 40 at a position where the detergent discharge port 37 of the detergent tank 30 abuts when the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 40. When the detergent pump 16 operates, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 is supplied into the washing tub 1 via the detergent discharge port 37, the detergent receiving port 42, the detergent tank storage section-side detergent discharge path 43, and the washing tub-side detergent discharge path 18. The inner bottom surface 36 of the detergent tank 30 is inclined so that it descends toward the detergent discharge port 37.

[0067] Figure 12 is a partially enlarged view showing the detergent tank 30 stored in the detergent tank storage section 40. Figure 12(a) is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 30 and the detergent tank storage section 40 when the liquid level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 is low. Figure 12(b) is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 30 and the detergent tank storage section 40 when the liquid level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 30 is high. The liquid level of the liquid detergent can be detected by detecting the position of the magnetic body 35 with the magnetic sensor 41.

[0068] FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the detergent tank 30. When the washing tub 1 is pulled out from the housing 2 or the detergent tank 30 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 40 while liquid detergent 38 is stored in the detergent tank 30, waves are generated in the liquid detergent 38. In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a float 34 made of a material that floats on the liquid detergent 38 is provided to cancel out these waves. Experiments conducted by the inventors have revealed that the float 34, which floats on the surface of the liquid detergent 38 and cancels out the waves, can reduce the waves generated in the liquid detergent 38 compared to when the float 34 is not provided. This prevents the liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 30 or from adhering to surrounding components and solidifying when using the dishwasher or refilling the detergent tank 30 with liquid detergent.

[0069] The float 34 may be made of thermoplastic resin, metal, or the like. If the float 34 is made of metal, a cavity may be provided inside the float 34 to allow it to float in the liquid detergent. The float 34 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 30. In this case, the user can remove the arm 33 and the float 34 from the cover 31 and wash them. The arm 33 may be formed integrally with the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30.

[0070] FIG. 14 shows a schematic cross section of the detergent tank 30. The cover 31 of the detergent tank 30 is provided with an air vent 39 that communicates with the outside. The cover 31 is provided to airtightly and liquid-tightly cover the opening of the detergent tank 30. Therefore, when liquid detergent 38 is discharged from the detergent tank 30, negative pressure may be created inside the detergent tank 30, which may hinder smooth discharge of the liquid detergent 38. By providing the air vent 39, outside air can be introduced into the detergent tank 30 through the air vent 39 when the liquid detergent 38 is discharged from the detergent tank 30, thereby preventing negative pressure from being created inside the detergent tank 30. This improves the reliability of the amount of liquid detergent 38 supplied from the detergent tank 30 to the washing tub 1.

[0071] If liquid detergent 38 adheres to and solidifies at atmosphere vent 39, it may block atmosphere vent 39, reducing its ability to allow outside air into detergent tank 30 and making it impossible to supply an appropriate amount of liquid detergent 38 from detergent tank 30 to washing tub 1. To solve this problem, in the dishwasher of this embodiment, atmosphere vent 39 is provided on cover 31 above the range of movement of float 34. As a result, even when the level of liquid detergent 38 in detergent tank 30 is high and liquid detergent 38 is likely to splash up from the liquid surface and get onto atmosphere vent 39, float 34 rises to the liquid surface directly below atmosphere vent 39 to neutralize the waves of liquid detergent 38, thereby preventing liquid detergent 38 from getting onto atmosphere vent 39.

[0072] FIG. 15 shows the underside of the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30. FIG. 15(a) is a bottom view of the cover 31. FIG. 15(b) is a perspective view of the underside of the cover 31. FIG. 15(c) is an enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the atmosphere vent 39. In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a protrusion 39a is provided near the atmosphere vent 39, protruding from the underside of the cover 31 toward the inside of the detergent tank 30. The protrusion 39a functions as a wall to protect the atmosphere vent 39 from liquid detergent 38 splashing from the liquid surface. This further prevents the liquid detergent 38 from splashing on the atmosphere vent 39. The protrusion 39a may be formed integrally with the cover 31, or may be formed separately from the cover 31 and attached to the cover 31.

[0073] The protrusion 39a is provided so that at least a portion of the float 34 or the arm 33 comes close to or abuts against the protrusion 39a when the float 34 moves upward. When the level of the liquid detergent 38 in the detergent tank 30 is high, the liquid detergent 38 is more likely to get on the atmosphere vent 39, but the float 34 rises to the surface of the liquid detergent 38, narrowing the gap between the float 34 or the arm 33 and the protrusion 39a, thereby reducing the possibility that the liquid detergent 38 will seep in through the gap and get on the atmosphere vent 39. The protrusion 39a may also be provided so as to come close to or abut at least a portion of another member that moves with the float 34 when the float 34 moves upward.

[0074] The protruding portion 39a has a shape that surrounds the open-air port 39, and a notch 39b is provided in part of the protruding portion 39a. This prevents a film from forming at the opening of the protruding portion 39a when the liquid detergent 38 comes into contact with the protruding portion 39a, and prevents the film from blocking the open-air port 39.

[0075] In the dishwasher of this embodiment, washing tub 1 is provided so as to be freely inserted and removed from housing 2. Therefore, every time washing tub 1 is inserted and removed from housing 2 to put in or take out dishes or other items to be washed, liquid detergent 38 sways in the direction of inserting and removing washing tub 1, creating waves. Therefore, notch 39b may be provided in a direction different from the direction of inserting and removing washing tub 1. This prevents liquid detergent 38 from seeping into protruding portion 39a through notch 39b and getting on atmosphere opening vent 39 due to the waves of liquid detergent 38 created when washing tub 1 is inserted and removed.

[0076] In the dishwasher of this embodiment, the detergent tank 30 is provided so as to be freely inserted and removed from the detergent tank storage section 40. Therefore, every time the detergent tank 30 is inserted and removed from the detergent tank storage section 40 to refill the liquid detergent, the liquid detergent 38 sways in the direction of insertion and removal of the detergent tank 30, creating waves. Therefore, the notch 39b may be provided in a direction different from the direction of insertion and removal of the detergent tank 30. This prevents the liquid detergent 38 from seeping into the inside of the protruding portion 39a through the notch 39b and getting onto the atmosphere vent 39 due to the waves of the liquid detergent 38 created when the detergent tank 30 is inserted and removed.

[0077] The notch 39b may be provided on the side of the pivot shaft 32 on which the arm 33 is pivotally supported. When the liquid level of the liquid detergent 38 is high, the float 34 rises to the liquid surface, causing the arm 33 to move upward, so that the space between the protrusion 39a and the pivot shaft 32 is separated from the liquid detergent 38 by the protrusion 39a, the pivot shaft 32, and the arm 33. This prevents the liquid detergent 38 from entering the inside of the protrusion 39a through the notch 39b and getting onto the atmosphere vent 39.

[0078] FIG. 16 shows a schematic diagram of the relationship between the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32. The pivot shaft 32 has a cylindrical shape. The arm 33 has a fitting portion 33a at its upper end that fits onto the cylindrical pivot shaft 32. The fitting portion 33a has a cylindrical shape with a partial angular range of the side surface cut out in the axial direction. By providing the cutout portion 33b, the arm 33 can be removed from the pivot shaft 32 for cleaning, which prevents liquid detergent from adhering and solidifying between the fitting portion 33a and the pivot shaft 32, causing the float 34 to malfunction. Furthermore, the interior of the detergent tank 30 can be kept clean. The arm 33 can be easily attached to the pivot shaft 32 during dishwasher manufacturing, reducing manufacturing costs.

[0079] A method of moving a float 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, when the detergent tank is shallow, the float's movement range is narrow, making it difficult to detect the liquid level precisely. According to the configuration of this embodiment, the arm 33 is supported by the pivot shaft 32 located above the liquid detergent level, and the float 34 is rotated according to the liquid level. This reduces the possibility of the liquid detergent solidifying between the pivot shaft 32 and the arm 33, causing the float 34 to become stuck. Furthermore, because the float 34 moves horizontally and vertically according to the liquid level, the liquid level can be detected more accurately.

[0080] Figure 17 shows a schematic cross section of the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32. Figure 17(a) shows a cross section of the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32 when the liquid detergent level is at its highest. Figure 17(b) shows a cross section of the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32 when the liquid detergent is empty. The cutout 33b is configured to face upward rather than horizontally when the arm 33 pivots around the pivot shaft 32 in accordance with the liquid level over the entire range of liquid detergent levels. This further reduces the possibility that liquid detergent splashing from the liquid surface will seep into the gap between the arm 33 and the pivot shaft 32 through the cutout 33b and solidify.

[0081] In the dishwasher of this embodiment, rotation shaft 32 is provided parallel to the direction in which washing tub 1 is inserted into or removed from housing 2, and float 34 is configured to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which washing tub 1 is inserted into or removed from housing 2. As a result, when washing tub 1 is inserted into or removed from housing 2, float 34 can effectively cancel waves generated in the direction of insertion or removal by float 34, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to atmosphere vent 39, rotation shaft 32, fitting portion 33a of arm 33, etc. When detergent tank 30 is inserted into or removed from detergent tank storage section 40, float 34 can also cancel waves generated in the direction of insertion or removal by float 34, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to atmosphere vent 39, rotation shaft 32, fitting portion 33a of arm 33, etc.

[0082] In another example, the rotation shaft 32 may be provided parallel to the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is inserted into or removed from the detergent tank housing portion 40, and the float 34 may be configured to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the detergent tank 30 is inserted into or removed from the detergent tank housing portion 40. This allows the float 34 to effectively cancel waves generated in the direction of insertion or removal when the detergent tank 30 is inserted into or removed from the detergent tank housing portion 40, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmosphere vent 39, the rotation shaft 32, the fitting portion 33a of the arm 33, etc., and also preventing liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 30 when a user refills the detergent tank 30 with liquid detergent. When the washing tub 1 is inserted into or removed from the housing 2, the float 34 can also cancel waves generated in the direction of insertion or removal, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmosphere vent 39, the rotation shaft 32, the fitting portion 33a of the arm 33, etc.

[0083] 18 shows the configuration of a control device for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment of the present invention. The control device 50 is realized by hardware such as a microcomputer, a microcontroller, and an integrated circuit.

[0084] The control device 50 includes a process control unit 51, a detection result acquisition unit 52, a liquid level determination unit 53, a detergent tank storage determination unit 54, a liquid delivery control unit 55, a notification unit 56, a leaving time acquisition unit 57, a liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58, and a memory 59. 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 diagram shows functional blocks realized by the cooperation of these components. Therefore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways, such as by hardware alone or a combination of hardware and software.

[0085] The process control unit 51 controls the washing operation of the dishwasher. The process control unit 51 receives instructions from the user via the dishwasher's operation unit 24 and controls the washing operation in accordance with the instructions. The process control unit 51 may perform the washing process, rinsing process, and drying process consecutively, may perform only one of the processes, or may perform a combination of two or more of the processes in any order.

[0086] The detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires the detection result of the magnetic sensor 41 from the magnetic sensor 41. As described above, the magnetic sensor 41 detects the magnetism of the magnetic body 35 provided on the float 34.

[0087] The liquid level determination unit 53 determines the liquid level of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 based on the detection results acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 52. The liquid level determination unit 53 may, for example, determine the position of the magnetic body 35 based on magnetism detected by a plurality of Hall elements installed in different positions, and determine the liquid level of the liquid detergent based on the determined position of the magnetic body 35.

[0088] The detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines whether the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 based on the detection result acquired by the detection result acquisition unit 52. When the detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires a detection result indicating that the magnetic sensor 41 has detected the magnetism of the magnetic body 35, the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40. When the detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires a detection result indicating that the magnetic sensor 41 has not detected the magnetism of the magnetic body 35, the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40.

[0089] The liquid delivery control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to deliver the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1. As will be described later, the liquid delivery control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 so that the amount of liquid detergent determined by the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58 is supplied to the washing tank 1. When the delivery of the amount of liquid detergent determined by the liquid delivery target amount determination unit 58 has ended, the liquid delivery control unit 55 records the liquid delivery end time in memory 59.

[0090] When the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, the liquid delivery control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 not to deliver liquid detergent from the detergent tank 30 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 30 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.

[0091] When the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40, the notification unit 56 notifies the user of this fact. The notification unit 56 may notify the user by voice or by displaying the fact that the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 on the display unit 25. This allows the user to store the detergent tank 30 in the detergent tank storage unit 40 even if the user mistakenly starts washing without storing the detergent tank 30 in the detergent tank storage unit 40.

[0092] The standing time acquisition unit 57 calculates the time that has passed since the detergent pump 16 last supplied liquid detergent to the washing tank 1, thereby acquiring the time that the detergent pump 16 and the liquid detergent flow path have been left unused. The standing time acquisition unit 57 reads the time that the previous liquid delivery ended from the memory 59 and calculates the time that has passed up to the current time. The standing time acquisition unit 57 may count the time that has passed since the previous liquid delivery ended using a counter circuit or the like. The standing time acquisition unit 57 may acquire information indicating the previous liquid delivery end time or the standing time from an external server or the like.

[0093] Liquid detergents used in dishwashers thicken due to oxidation caused by oxygen in the air when left unused for a long period of time. Figure 19 shows the viscosity of liquid detergent measured using a rotational viscometer. The viscosity of the liquid detergent measured after three months of use increased only slightly from its initial value, but the viscosity of the liquid detergent measured after six months of use increased significantly from its initial value. Therefore, if a dishwasher is used again after being left unused for a long period of time, the liquid detergent remaining in the flow path, including the detergent pump 16, may thicken or solidify, causing poor flow, and the detergent pump 16 may not be able to supply the specified amount of detergent to the washing tub 1.

[0094] Therefore, in this embodiment, if the standing time is longer than a predetermined threshold, the target amount of liquid detergent to be delivered is increased above the specified amount, thereby increasing the operating time, number of times of driving, and driving voltage of the detergent pump 16 from normal levels. This makes it possible to compensate for the decrease in the amount of liquid delivered due to the thickening of the liquid detergent, so that an appropriate amount of liquid detergent can be supplied to the washing tank 1.

[0095] The target liquid feed amount determination unit 58 determines the target liquid feed amount when supplying liquid detergent to the washing tank 1. If the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition unit 57 is shorter than the first threshold, the target liquid feed amount determination unit 58 determines the target liquid feed amount based on the operating mode of the washing process, the type of liquid detergent, the type and amount of items to be washed, the water temperature, the air temperature, etc. If the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition unit 57 is longer than the first threshold, the target liquid feed amount determination unit 58 adds a predetermined amount to the normal target liquid feed amount determined as described above. The additional amount may be determined based on the standing time, the season of the standing period, the air temperature, the humidity, etc. For example, the longer the standing time or the lower the air temperature or humidity during the standing period, the greater the degree of viscosity of the liquid detergent is thought to be, so the additional amount may be increased.

[0096] The liquid delivery control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to deliver the liquid detergent in the target amount determined by the target liquid delivery amount determination unit 58. The liquid delivery control unit 55 determines the drive time, number of drives, and drive voltage of the detergent pump 16 according to the target liquid delivery amount, and controls the detergent pump 16.

[0097] When the liquid detergent is left unused for a period longer than the first threshold, the period for which the target liquid detergent feed determination unit 58 increases the target liquid detergent feed amount from the normal amount may be only once immediately after the unused time, a predetermined number of times, or until it is detected that the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 has been almost used and the detergent tank 30 is almost empty. Which of the above-mentioned periods is adopted may be determined depending on the unused time. For example, if the unused time is relatively short, it is expected that the thickened liquid detergent remaining in the flow path will flow out into the washing tank 1 by pumping the liquid detergent once, so the target liquid feed amount may be increased only once immediately after the unused time. If the unused time is relatively long, it is expected that several pumping operations will be required until the thickened liquid detergent remaining in the flow path flows out into the washing tank 1, so the target liquid feed amount may be increased a predetermined number of times immediately after the unused time. If the unused time is even longer, it is expected that the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 will also thicken, so the target liquid feed amount may be increased until the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 is almost used. It may be determined based on the liquid level of the liquid detergent determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 that the liquid detergent remaining in the detergent tank 30 has been mostly used.

[0098] The liquid feed target amount determination unit 58 may determine the liquid feed target amount further based on the time elapsed since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30. When the time elapsed since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30 is longer than a predetermined threshold, the liquid feed target amount determination unit 58 may increase the liquid feed target amount to compensate for a decrease in the liquid feed amount due to an increase in viscosity of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30. In this case, the time when the liquid level determination unit 53 determines that the liquid level of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 has reached full may be recorded in memory 59, and the liquid feed target amount determination unit 58 may calculate the elapsed time by referring to the time recorded in memory 59.

[0099] The target liquid feed amount determination unit 58 may determine the target liquid feed amount further based on the liquid detergent level determined by the liquid level determination unit 53. When the difference between the target liquid level, obtained by subtracting the cumulative total of the target liquid feed amounts from a first time point (e.g., a time point when the liquid detergent level determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 is full) to a second time point from the liquid level determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 at the first time point, and the actual liquid level determined by the liquid level determination unit 53 at the second time point, is greater than a predetermined value, the target liquid feed amount determination unit 58 may determine that the amount of liquid detergent actually fed significantly deviates from the target liquid feed amount, and adjust the target liquid feed amount according to the difference between the target liquid level and the actual liquid level. For example, if the target liquid level is higher than the actual liquid level by a predetermined value or more, the target liquid feed amount may be increased. The target liquid feed amount used to calculate the difference between the target liquid level and the actual liquid level may be a value before being increased by the target liquid feed amount determination unit 58.

[0100] The liquid delivery control unit 55 may discard the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 if the standing time acquired by the standing time acquisition unit 57 is longer than a second threshold value, or if the time elapsed since the liquid detergent was stored in the detergent tank 30 is longer than a predetermined threshold value. In this case, the liquid delivery control unit 55 may supply water into the washing tank 1 and discharge the liquid detergent together with the water after sending all of the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1. At this time, the notification unit 56 may notify the user that the liquid detergent will be discarded. This makes it possible to prevent the object from being washed with liquid detergent that has been stored in the detergent tank 30 for a long period of time and may have deteriorated due to oxidation or the like.

[0101] Fig. 20 is a flowchart showing the steps of a method for controlling a dishwasher according to an embodiment. The flowchart shown in Fig. 20 shows the steps before the dishwasher starts the washing process. When the process control unit 51 starts the washing process (S10), the detection result acquisition unit 52 acquires the detection result from the magnetic sensor 41, and the detergent tank storage determination unit 54 determines whether the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 based on the detection result (S12). If the detergent tank 30 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 (N in S12), the notification unit 56 notifies the user of this (S14), and the process returns to S12. If the detergent tank 30 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 40 (Y in S12), the process control unit 51 executes the washing process (S16).

[0102] Fig. 21 is a flowchart showing the steps of a control method for a dishwasher according to an embodiment. The flowchart shown in Fig. 21 shows the steps of the washing process executed in the dishwasher. Standing time acquisition unit 57 reads the time when the previous liquid transfer ended from memory 59 (S20) and calculates the standing time (S21). If the standing time is longer than second threshold value t2 (Y in S22), liquid transfer control unit 55 transfers all of the liquid detergent stored in detergent tank 30 to washing tub 1 (S24), supplies water into washing tub 1 and discharges it together with the liquid detergent (S26), and ends the washing process.

[0103] If the standing time is equal to or less than the second threshold value t2 (N in S22), the liquid feed target amount determination unit 58 determines the normal liquid feed target amount (S28). If the standing time is greater than the first threshold value t1 (Y in S30), the liquid feed target amount determination unit 58 increases the liquid feed target amount (S32). If the standing time is equal to or less than the first threshold value t1 (N in S30), S32 is skipped and the liquid feed target amount is not changed. The liquid feed control unit 55 controls the detergent pump 16 to feed the liquid feed target amount of liquid detergent to the washing tank 1 (S34), and when the liquid feed ends, records the liquid feed end time in memory 59 (S36). The process control unit 51 executes the washing process (S38).

[0104] FIG. 22 schematically shows another example of the detergent tank 30. FIG. 22(a) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the detergent tank 30, and FIG. 22(b) is a schematic side view of the detergent tank 30 as seen from the rear side in the loading / unloading direction. A detergent discharge port 71 is provided at the bottom end of the side surface of the detergent tank 30 at the rear side in the loading / unloading direction. The detergent discharge port 71 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and a foreign matter capture unit 70 for capturing foreign matter that has entered the detergent tank 30 is inserted into the internal cavity. An O-ring 72 is provided between the foreign matter capture unit 70 and the detergent discharge port 71. This provides a liquid-tight connection between the foreign matter capture unit 70 and the detergent discharge port 71. The liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 is discharged from a flow path 73 provided inside the foreign matter capture unit 70.

[0105] The end of the foreign matter capture unit 70 inside the detergent tank 30 has an outer diameter smaller than the inner opening of the detergent discharge outlet 71, and the outer end has an outer diameter larger than the outer opening of the detergent discharge outlet 71. Therefore, the foreign matter capture unit 70 is detachably inserted into the detergent discharge outlet 71 from the outside of the detergent tank 30. Because the foreign matter capture unit 70 is fixed to the detergent discharge outlet 71 only by the sliding resistance of the O-ring 72, the user can easily remove the foreign matter capture unit 70 by simply pushing the foreign matter capture unit 70 from the inside to the outside of the detergent tank 30, as shown by the arrow in Figure 22(a). Furthermore, the foreign matter capture unit 70 can be easily attached by simply pushing it into the detergent discharge outlet 71 from the outside of the detergent tank 30. This allows the foreign matter capture unit 70 to be easily attached and detached, and the detergent discharge outlet 71 and its surroundings to be washed away, making it easy to remove foreign matter captured by the foreign matter capture unit 70.

[0106] FIG. 23 shows a schematic cross section of the foreign matter capture unit 70. The foreign matter capture unit 70 includes a generally cylindrical cover 76, a throttle unit 74 connected to the end of the cover 76, and a valve body 80 provided in a cavity within the cover 76. A groove 78 is provided in the center of the cover 76, and an O-ring 72 is provided on the outside of the groove 78. A throttle unit opening 75 is provided near the connection between the throttle unit 74 and the cover 76, and a cover opening 77 is provided near the connection between the cover 76 and the throttle unit 74. Liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 30 flows into the cover 76 through the throttle unit opening 75 and the cover opening 77. The valve body 80 is biased leftward in the figure by a biasing spring 81. At this time, the valve body 80 is pressed against the inside of the groove 78, and a seal member 82 forms a liquid-tight seal between the valve body 80 and the cover 76, preventing the liquid detergent from leaking into the flow path 73.

[0107] Figure 24 schematically shows the foreign matter capture unit 70 attached to the detergent discharge port 71. Figure 24(a) shows a cross section of the foreign matter capture unit 70 attached to the detergent discharge port. Figure 24(b) is an enlarged view of a portion of the rectangular portion in Figure 24(a). Figure 24(c) is a side view of the foreign matter capture unit 70 as seen from inside the detergent tank 30. Figure 24(d) is a side view of another example of the throttle portion 74 of the foreign matter capture unit 70. Figure 24 shows the valve body 80 in an open state, but the opening and closing of the valve body 80 will be described later.

[0108] When the foreign matter capture unit 70 is attached to the detergent discharge port 71, the gap d between the outside of the body of the foreign matter capture unit 70 and the inner opening of the detergent discharge port 71 is configured to be smaller than the inner diameter of the liquid detergent flow path from the throttle unit opening 75 to the washing tank 1. The liquid detergent flow path from the throttle unit opening 75 to the washing tank 1 includes the cover opening 77, the flow path between the valve body 80 and the cover 76 when the valve body 80 is open, the flow path 73, the outer opening of the detergent discharge port 71, the detergent tank storage unit-side detergent discharge path 43, the flow path in the detergent pump 16, the washing tank-side detergent discharge path 18, and the washing tank detergent discharge port 17. When the detergent pump 16 delivers liquid detergent from the detergent tank 30 to the washing tank 1, foreign matter in the detergent tank 30 that is larger than the gap d cannot pass through the gap d and remains in the detergent tank 30. Foreign matter smaller than the gap d that can pass through the gap d flows to the washing tank 1 without clogging the flow path along the way. This prevents foreign matter from clogging the flow path of the liquid detergent from the detergent discharge port 71 to the washing tank 1. Any foreign matter that does not pass through the gap d and remains in the detergent tank 30 can be easily washed away and removed by removing the foreign matter capture part 70.

[0109] 24(c), the liquid detergent flows into the foreign matter capturing section 70 only through the gap d formed in the concentric ring shape, and is discharged from the detergent discharge port 71. The gap d functions as a foreign matter capturing flow path for capturing foreign matter in the detergent tank 30.

[0110] In the example shown in Figure 24(d), the liquid detergent can flow into the foreign matter capture unit 70 not only through the gap d but also through the hole 83 provided in the throttle unit 74. The diameter of the hole 83 is configured to be smaller than the diameter of the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent discharge port 71 to the washing tank 1. In other words, the hole 83 also functions as a flow path for capturing foreign matter. Foreign matter larger than the hole 83 cannot pass through the hole 83 and remains in the detergent tank 30. Foreign matter smaller than the hole 83 and able to pass through the hole 83 flows to the washing tank 1 without clogging the flow path. This prevents foreign matter from clogging the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent discharge port 71 to the washing tank 1. Foreign matter that does not pass through the hole 83 and adheres to the periphery of the hole 83 can be easily removed by removing the foreign matter capture unit 70 and washing it.

[0111] By providing additional holes 83, the cross-sectional area of the liquid detergent flow path can be increased, thereby reducing pressure loss and the negative pressure that occurs when the liquid detergent is sucked out by the detergent pump 16. Furthermore, since the area through which the liquid detergent can pass can be increased, even if a portion is blocked by foreign matter, the impact of clogging can be reduced. Therefore, the performance and reliability of the liquid detergent delivery can be maintained at a good level.

[0112] Figure 25 shows a schematic cross section of the detergent tank 30 when it is housed in the detergent tank housing portion 40. A rib 45 is provided at the tip of an elbow 44 that constitutes the detergent discharge path 43 on the detergent tank housing portion side. When the detergent tank 30 is housed in the detergent tank housing portion 40, the rib 45 is inserted into the flow path 73 of the foreign matter capture portion 70 and pushes in the valve body 80. This opens the valve body 80, allowing liquid detergent to flow into the flow path 73. While the detergent tank 30 is removed from the detergent tank housing portion 40, the valve body 80 is pressed against the groove portion 78 by the biasing spring 81, closing the flow path between the valve body 80 and the cover 76, preventing the liquid detergent stored inside from leaking out of the detergent discharge port 71.

[0113] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the foreign matter capture unit 70 has a foreign matter capture flow path for capturing foreign matter, but the foreign matter capture unit 70 may also have a filter or the like for capturing foreign matter. In this case, the foreign matter capture unit 70 may also be provided so as to be removable toward the outside of the detergent tank 30. This allows the filter to be easily removed to remove foreign matter.

[0114] The present disclosure has been described above based on examples. These examples are merely illustrative, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of the components and processing steps, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0115] In the embodiment, an example has been shown in which the cleaning tank 1 having an opening at the top is provided so as to be removable from the housing 2 having a front opening at the front, but in another example, the opening and closing door of the cleaning tank 1 may be provided above the cleaning tank 1. In this case, the cleaning tank 1 may be provided so as to be removable from the housing 2 at the front, or may be fixedly stored inside the housing 2.

[0116] In the embodiment, an example has been shown in which the dishwasher is housed inside the kitchen, but in another example, the dishwasher may be configured as an independent device.

[0117] In the embodiment, a dishwasher for washing items such as dishes has been described, but the technology disclosed herein can also be applied to washing machines for washing clothes, etc., and cleaning devices for washing other items. [Industrial Applicability]

[0118] The present invention can be used in a cleaning device for cleaning an object to be cleaned. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 1 Washing tub, 1a opening, 2 housing, 3 door body, 4 handle, 5 first rail, 6 second rail, 8 tableware, 9 circulation pump, 10 heater, 11 washing nozzle, 12 side wall, 13 front space, 14 detergent tank storage section, 14a detergent tank storage section detergent outlet, 14b detergent tank storage section side detergent outlet path, 14c recess, 15 detergent tank, 15a transparent section, 15c detergent tank detergent outlet, 15d detergent tank detergent suction path, 15e lid section, 15f convex section, 16 detergent pump, 17 washing tub detergent outlet, 18 washing tub side detergent outlet path, 19 control device, 23 flat section, 24 operation section, 25 display section, 30 detergent tank, 31 cover, 32 rotating shaft, 33 arm, 33a fitting section, 33b notch section, 34 Float, 35 Magnetic material, 36 Inner bottom surface, 37 Detergent discharge port, 38 Liquid detergent, 39 Atmospheric opening port, 39a Protrusion, 39b Notch, 40 Detergent tank storage section, 41 Magnetic sensor, 42 Detergent receiving port, 43 Detergent discharge path on detergent tank storage section side, 44 Elbow, 45 Rib, 50 Control device, 51 Process control section, 52 Detection result acquisition section, 53 Liquid level determination section, 54 Detergent tank storage determination section, 55 Liquid delivery control section, 56 Notification section, 57 Standing time acquisition section, 58 Liquid delivery target amount determination section, 59 Memory, 70 Foreign matter capture section, 71 Detergent discharge port, 72 O-ring, 73 Flow path, 74 Throttle section, 75 Throttle section opening, 76 Cover, 77 Cover opening, 78 Groove section, 80 Valve body, 81 Spring, 82 Sealing member, 83 Hole.

Claims

1. The housing and a cleaning tank provided in the housing and supported so as to be freely inserted and removed from the housing, the cleaning tank containing the object to be cleaned; a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tank; A floating body floating in the liquid detergent; Equipped with The float has a rotation shaft provided on the detergent tank or a cover covering an opening of the detergent tank, The rotation axis is provided parallel to the direction in which the cleaning tank is inserted into and removed from the housing. Cleaning equipment.

2. The cleaning device according to claim 1 , wherein the detergent tank is provided so as to be freely inserted into or removed from the cleaning tub or the housing.

Images