washing machine

Abstract

To provide a technology enabling kind of stain on laundry to be accurately discriminated.SOLUTION: A washing machine comprises: a water tub; a rotary tub disposed in the water tub; a circulation path to take in washing water in the water tub from a bottom part of the water tub and return the washing water into the water tub again; a circulation pump disposed in the circulation path; a bubble detector to detect amount of bubbles generated in the water tub; and a controller. The controller can execute a stain discrimination step to discriminate kind of stain on laundry based on a detection value of the bubble detector and executes the stain discrimination step in a state of stopping the circulation pump.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a washing machine. [Background technology]

[0002] The washing machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a water tub, a circulation path connected to the bottom of the water tub that draws wash water from the bottom of the water tub and returns it to the water tub, a circulation pump provided in the circulation path, and a dirt sensor provided in the circulation path. The dirt sensor detects the amount and quality of dirt in the wash water in the water tub. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-68737 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There are various types of stains on laundry, such as sebum stains and mud stains, but it is difficult to distinguish the type of stain on laundry using the washing machine in Patent Document 1. Therefore, this specification provides a technology that can accurately distinguish the type of stain on laundry. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The washing machine disclosed in this specification includes a water tub, a water supply path for supplying water into the water tub, a water supply valve provided in the water supply path, a rotating tub located in the water tub, a first motor for rotating the rotating tub, a circulation path connected to the bottom of the water tub for taking wash water from the bottom of the water tub and returning it to the water tub, a circulation pump provided in the circulation path, a foam detection unit provided above the water tub for detecting the amount of foam generated in the water tub, and a control unit. The control unit is capable of executing a dirt determination process for determining the type of dirt on laundry based on the detection value of the foam detection unit, and executes the dirt determination process with the circulation pump stopped.

[0006] The washing machine disclosed in this specification comprises a water tub, a water supply path that supplies water into the water tub, a water supply valve provided in the water supply path, a rotor placed in the water tub, a second motor that rotates the rotor, a foam detection unit provided on top of the water tub that detects the amount of foam generated in the water tub, and a control unit, wherein the control unit is capable of executing a dirt determination process that determines the type of dirt on the laundry based on the detection value of the foam detection unit, and executes the dirt determination process with the second motor stopped. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 4A to 4C are diagrams showing steps in a washing operation according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the detection value of the foam sensor and the type of dirt on the laundry in the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the type of dirt and the washing method in the main washing step in the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a washing machine according to a modified example. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a washing machine according to a modified example. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the type of dirt and the washing method in the main washing step in a modified example. [Figure 8]FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a washing machine according to a modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a washing machine according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] A washing machine 1 of the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Fig. 1, washing machine 1 includes a housing 2, a water tub 7 disposed within housing 2, a rotatable tub 9 disposed within water tub 7, and a motor 10 (an example of a first motor) disposed within housing 2 for rotating rotatable tub 9. Washing machine 1 also includes a foam sensor unit 50 (an example of a foam detector) that detects the amount of foam generated within water tub 7, and a control unit 6.

[0009] Housing 2 is configured, for example, in a box shape, and has operation panel 5 provided on the upper front side thereof. Operation panel 5 is configured, for example, as a touch panel, and displays various information related to washing machine 1 and accepts various operations related to washing machine 1. For example, operation panel 5 displays the operating status of washing machine 1 and accepts operations for washing operation.

[0010] Water tub 7 is configured in a substantially cylindrical shape and is disposed in housing 2 at an angle relative to the horizontal. Water tub 7 has opening 7a facing the front of washing machine 1. A heater 60 (an example of a heating section) that heats the water in water tub 7 is provided at the bottom of water tub 7. Water inlet 14 is provided at the top of water tub 7, and drain outlet 15 is provided at the bottom of water tub 7.

[0011] Rotating tub 9 housed within water tub 7 is configured in a substantially cylindrical shape and is disposed within water tub 7 in a tilted state relative to the horizontal. Washing machine 1 of the embodiment is a so-called inclined drum washing machine. Rotating tub 9 is disposed within water tub 7 in a rotatable state and rotates by driving motor 10. The rotation speed (rotational speed) of motor 10 and rotating tub 9 is controllable. Rotating tub 9 has opening 9a facing the front of washing machine 1. Laundry (e.g., clothes) is placed into rotating tub 9 through opening 7a of water tub 7 and opening 9a of rotating tub 9. Washing machine 1 can perform a washing operation to wash laundry housed in rotating tub 9. Washing machine 1 may also have a drying function to dry laundry.

[0012] A water supply unit 27 is connected to the water supply inlet 14 of the water tub 7. The water supply unit 27 includes a water supply hose 32 connected to the water supply inlet 14 of the water tub 7, a connection pipe 30 connected to a water supply source (e.g., a water faucet (not shown)), and a water supply case 31 to which the water supply hose 32 and connection pipe 30 are connected. The connection pipe 30 guides water supplied from the water supply source to the water supply case 31. A water supply valve 29 is provided on the connection pipe 30. When the water supply valve 29 is opened, water is supplied from the water supply source to the water supply case 31 through the connection pipe 30. The opening degree of the water supply valve 29 is controllable. The water supply case 31 is configured to store liquid detergent for laundry. The detergent stored in the water supply case 31 dissolves in water supplied from the connection pipe 30 and flows into the water supply hose 32. The water supply hose 32 supplies the detergent stored in the water supply case 31 and the water supplied from the water supply source into the water tub 7. Hereinafter, the water with the detergent dissolved therein may be referred to as wash water. In this embodiment, the connecting pipe 30, the water injection case 31, and the water supply hose 32 constitute a water supply path for supplying water into the water tub.

[0013] An internal drain hose 16 is connected to a drain port 15 at the bottom of the water tub 7. The wash water in the water tub 7 is drained from the drain port 15 into the internal drain hose 16. The downstream end of the internal drain hose 16 is connected to a filter unit 17. The internal drain hose 16 guides the wash water drained from the water tub 7 to the filter unit 17. The filter unit 17 collects lint contained in the wash water drained through the internal drain hose 16. A drain pipe 20 is also connected to the filter unit 17. The downstream end of the drain pipe 20 is connected to a drain destination outside the machine (for example, an external drain hose (not shown)). A drain valve 19 is provided on the drain pipe 20, and when the drain valve 19 is opened, the wash water is drained through the drain pipe 20. The wash water in the water tub 7 is drained through the internal drain hose 16 and the drain pipe 20 to a drain destination (for example, an external drain hose).

[0014] A circulation pump 21 is provided at the rear end of filter unit 17, to which internal drain hose 16 is connected. The upstream end of water supply hose 22 is connected to circulation pump 21. Circulation pump 21 is configured to suck in wash water drained through internal drain hose 16 and discharge it into water supply hose 22. The downstream end of water supply hose 22 is connected to a water fountain nozzle 23 provided on the top of water tub 7. Water supply hose 22 guides the wash water discharged from circulation pump 21 to water fountain nozzle 23.

[0015] Fountain nozzle 23 is fixed to the upper front side of water tub 7. Fountain nozzle 23 is positioned near opening 7a of water tub 7 and is configured to spray water into water tub 7 through opening 7a. Wash water guided to fountain nozzle 23 through water supply hose 22 is sprayed from fountain nozzle 23 into water tub 7. When circulation pump 21 operates, wash water in water tub 7 is drained through internal drain hose 16, and the wash water is returned to water tub 7 through water supply hose 22 and fountain nozzle 23. In this embodiment, internal drain hose 16, circulation pump 21, water supply hose 22, and fountain nozzle 23 form a circulation path that circulates wash water. The circulation path is configured to take wash water from water tub 7 from the bottom of water tub 7 and return it to water tub 7.

[0016] Next, the foam sensor unit 50 will be described. The foam sensor unit 50 is located at the upper rear side of the water tub 7. The foam sensor unit 50 includes an air trap 39 that communicates with the inside of the water tub 7, an air tube 26 connected to the air trap 39, and a foam sensor 25 connected to the air tube 26. The foam sensor 25 is located at the top of the housing 2. The foam sensor 25 is composed of a pressure switch. When bubbles generated in the water tub 7 reach the air trap 39, the bubbles expand and contract as the rotating tub 9 rotates, changing the pressure inside the air trap 39. The foam sensor 25 is configured to detect the amount of foam generated by detecting this pressure change. Information on the detection value by the foam sensor 25 is sent to the control unit 6.

[0017] The control unit 6 includes, for example, a CPU and a memory (not shown), and executes predetermined control and processing based on a program stored in the memory. The control and processing executed by the control unit 6 will be described later.

[0018] Next, the operation of the washing machine 1 will be described. The washing machine 1 is capable of performing a washing operation. As shown in Fig. 2, the washing operation includes a preparation step (S2), a pre-wash step (S4), a stain determination step (S6), a main wash step (S8), and a rinsing / spin-drying step (S10). Each step (S2-S10) is performed in the order shown in Fig. 2.

[0019] The preparation step (S2) is a step for preparing for washing. In the preparation step, for example, the weight of the laundry in the rotatable tub 9 is detected, water is supplied to the water tub 7, detergent is poured into the water tub 7, etc. are carried out.

[0020] The subsequent pre-wash step (S4) is a step in which the laundry is pre-washed. When the pre-wash step is executed, the reaction between the wash water in the water tub 7 and the dirt on the laundry in the rotatable tub 9 is promoted. In the pre-wash step, while wash water is stored in the water tub 7, the control unit 6 operates the motor 10 to rotate the rotatable tub 9. This pre-washes the laundry in the rotatable tub 9. The rotation speed of the rotatable tub 9 in the pre-wash step is adjusted to a lower rotation speed than the rotation speed of the rotatable tub 9 in the main wash step (S8) described later. In addition, the water level in the water tub 7 in the pre-wash step is adjusted to a lower water level than the water level in the water tub 7 in the main wash step described later.

[0021] The next dirt determination step (S6) is a step for determining the type of dirt on the laundry. The control unit 6 executes the dirt determination step with the circulation pump 21 provided in the circulation path stopped. That is, the control unit 6 executes the dirt determination step without circulating the wash water in the water tub 7. The water level in the water tub 7 during the dirt determination step is adjusted to a lower level than the water level in the water tub 7 during the main wash step described below.

[0022] In the dirt determination process, the control unit 6 determines the type of dirt on the laundry in the rotatable tub 9 based on the detection value of the foam sensor 25. The foam sensor 25 detects the amount of foam generated in the water tub 7 during the preparatory process and the pre-wash process described above. FIG. 3 shows the relationship between the detection value of the foam sensor 25 and the type of dirt on the laundry in this embodiment. The control unit 6 determines the type of dirt on the laundry in the rotatable tub 9 by comparing the detection value P of the foam sensor 25 with a predetermined reference value T. The control unit 6 compares the detection value P of the foam sensor 25 with the reference value T after a predetermined reference time has elapsed since the end of the pre-wash process described above. A high detection value P of the foam sensor 25 indicates a large amount of foam generated in the water tub 7, and a low detection value P of the foam sensor 25 indicates a small amount of foam generated in the water tub 7. If the detection value P of the foam sensor 25 is less than the reference value T, the control unit 6 determines that the type of dirt on the laundry is sebum dirt. When the detection value P of the foam sensor 25 is equal to or greater than the reference value T, the control unit 6 determines that the type of dirt on the laundry is muddy dirt.

[0023] After the dirt determination process is completed, the control unit 6 opens the water supply valve 29 of the water supply unit 27 to supply water into the water tub 7. The control unit 6 adjusts the amount of water supplied to the water tub 7 by controlling the opening of the water supply valve 29.

[0024] The subsequent main wash step (S8) is a step in which the laundry is washed. In the main wash step, while wash water is stored in the water tub 7, the control unit 6 operates the motor 10 to rotate the rotatable tub 9. This causes the laundry in the rotatable tub 9 to be washed.

[0025] The water level in water tub 7 during the main wash process is adjusted to a level higher than the water level in water tub 7 during the pre-wash process described above. Control unit 6 adjusts the water level in water tub 7 by controlling the opening of water supply valve 29. Control unit 6 adjusts the water level in water tub 7 during the main wash process based on the determination results from the dirt determination process described above. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, when control unit 6 determines that the type of dirt on the laundry is sebum dirt during the dirt determination process, it supplies less water to water tub 7 and lowers the water level in water tub 7 than when it determines that the type of dirt on the laundry is muddy dirt. On the other hand, when control unit 6 determines that the type of dirt on the laundry is muddy dirt during the dirt determination process, it supplies more water to water tub 7 and raises the water level in water tub 7 than when it determines that the type of dirt on the laundry is muddy dirt.

[0026] The rotation speed of the spin tub 9 in the main wash step is adjusted to be higher than the rotation speed of the spin tub 9 in the pre-wash step described above. The control unit 6 controls the rotation speed of the spin tub 9 in the main wash step based on the determination result in the dirt determination step described above. The washing machine 1 of this embodiment can perform beating wash and rubbing wash by changing the rotation speed of the spin tub 9 (the rotation speed of the motor 10). The beating wash is a washing method in which the rotation speed of the spin tub 9 is higher than that of the rubbing wash. The rubbing wash is a washing method in which the rotation speed of the spin tub 9 is lower than that of the beating wash. The control unit 6 can change the washing method of the laundry by controlling the rotation speed of the spin tub 9. For example, when the control unit 6 determines that the type of dirt on the laundry is sebum dirt in the dirt determination step described above, it sets the rotation speed of the spin tub 9 to be higher than that in the case of muddy dirt. In this case, the control unit 6 sets the rotation speed of the spin tub 9 to the rotation speed for performing beating wash (see FIG. 4). Furthermore, when the control unit 6 determines in the stain determination process that the type of stain on the laundry is muddy, it sets the rotation speed of the rotatable tub 9 to be slower than when the type of stain is sebum. In this case, the control unit 6 sets the rotation speed of the rotatable tub 9 to the rotation speed for performing scrubbing (see FIG. 4).

[0027] Control unit 6 also operates circulation pump 21 during the main wash cycle. When circulation pump 21 operates, wash water in water tub 7 is taken from the bottom of water tub 7 through in-machine drain hose 16, and the wash water is then supplied back into water tub 7 through water supply hose 22 and fountain nozzle 23. Control unit 6 may operate circulation pump 21 continuously or intermittently during the main wash cycle.

[0028] Furthermore, the control unit 6 may operate the heater 60 provided at the bottom of the water tub 7 during the main wash process. The control unit 6 controls the operation of the heater 60 based on the determination result in the stain determination process. For example, when the control unit 6 determines that the type of stain on the laundry is sebum stain during the stain determination process, it operates the heater 60 (see FIG. 4). The operation of the heater 60 heats the wash water in the water tub 7. Furthermore, when the control unit 6 determines that the type of stain on the laundry is muddy stain during the stain determination process, it stops the heater 60 (see FIG. 4).

[0029] The subsequent rinse / spin process (S10) is a process for rinsing and spin-drying the laundry. The rinse / spin process is well known, so a detailed description will be omitted. During the rinse / spin process, the control unit 6 stops the circulation pump 21.

[0030] (effect) The above has described the washing machine 1 of the embodiment. As is clear from the above description, in the washing machine 1 of the embodiment, the control unit 6 can execute a dirt determination process (S6) that determines the type of dirt on the laundry based on the detection value of the foam sensor 25, and executes the dirt determination process with the circulation pump 21 provided in the circulation path stopped.

[0031] In washing machine 1 that washes laundry, the degree to which the wash water in tub 7 foams may differ depending on the type of dirt on the laundry. For example, if the laundry is mainly soiled with sebum, the wash water is less likely to foam, and a relatively small amount of foam is generated in tub 7. In contrast, if the laundry is mainly soiled with mud, the wash water is more likely to foam than if the laundry is mainly soiled with sebum, and a relatively large amount of foam is generated in tub 7.

[0032] In washing machine 1 of the embodiment, foam sensor 25 detects the amount of foam generated in water tub 7, and control unit 6 determines the type of dirt on the laundry based on the detected value of foam sensor 25. For example, if the amount of foam is small, it can determine that the type of dirt on the laundry is sebum dirt, and if the amount of foam is large, it can determine that the type of dirt on the laundry is mud dirt.

[0033] In a configuration including circulation pump 21, the operation of circulation pump 21 may agitate the wash water in water tub 7 and generate bubbles. In such a configuration that determines the type of soiling on the laundry based on the detection value of foam sensor 25, it is considered that the influence of bubbles generated by the operation of circulation pump 21 makes it difficult to determine the type of soiling on the laundry. For example, if the type of soiling on the laundry is mainly sebum soiling, the amount of bubbles generated in the water tub 7 may increase when circulation pump 21 is operated, even though the amount of bubbles generated in the water tub 7 would be small if circulation pump 21 were not operated. In such a case, even if the type of soiling on the laundry is mainly sebum soiling, the operation of circulation pump 21 may result in the type of soiling on the laundry being determined to be muddy soiling.

[0034] However, according to the washing machine 1 of the embodiment, the control unit 6 executes the dirt determination process (S6) with the circulation pump 21 stopped, thereby preventing the type of dirt on the laundry from being incorrectly determined, and enabling the type of dirt on the laundry to be accurately determined.

[0035] Furthermore, the control unit 6 can execute the main wash process (S8) after the dirt determination process (S6) is completed, and executes the dirt determination process when the water level in the water tub 7 during the dirt determination process is lower than the water level in the water tub 7 during the main wash process. With this configuration, the detergent concentration in the wash water in the water tub 7 can be increased during the dirt determination process, and the dirt determination process can be executed when the detergent concentration is high. This allows the dirt determination process to be executed in a state where the reaction between the wash water and the dirt on the laundry is promoted. Therefore, the type of dirt on the laundry can be accurately determined. Furthermore, the main wash process can be executed with the type of dirt accurately determined.

[0036] Furthermore, the control unit 6 can execute a pre-wash step (S4) before starting the stain determination step (S6). With this configuration, the pre-wash step can promote the reaction between the wash water and the stains on the laundry, and by executing the stain determination step thereafter, the type of stain on the laundry can be accurately determined.

[0037] Furthermore, the control unit 6 adjusts the water level in the water tub 7 during the main wash process based on the determination result in the stain determination process. With this configuration, for example, if the type of stain on the laundry is determined to be muddy, the water level in the water tub 7 during the main wash process can be set higher than in the case of sebum stains in order to wash away the muddy stains. On the other hand, if the type of stain on the laundry is determined to be sebum, the water level in the water tub 7 during the main wash process can be set lower than in the case of muddy stains in order to save water.

[0038] Furthermore, the control unit 6 can change the way laundry is washed by controlling the operation of the rotatable tub 9 during the main wash process. The control unit 6 controls the operation of the rotatable tub 9 during the main wash process based on the results of the stain determination process. With this configuration, for example, if the type of stain on the laundry is determined to be sebum stains, the motor rotation speed can be increased to perform a beating wash compared to when the laundry is determined to be muddy stains. This increases the detergency and allows sebum stains to be thoroughly removed.

[0039] The washing machine 1 of the embodiment also includes a heater 60 that heats the wash water in the water tub 7. The control unit 6 controls the operation of the heater 60 in the main wash process based on the determination result in the stain determination process. With this configuration, for example, when the type of stain on the laundry is determined to be sebum stain, the temperature of the wash water can be made higher than when the laundry is muddy, thereby increasing the detergency and allowing the sebum stain to be sufficiently removed.

[0040] Although the embodiments have been described above, the specific aspects are not limited to the above embodiments. In the following description, the same components as those in the above description will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0041] (Variation) (1) When operating the heater 60 that heats the wash water in the main wash step, the control unit 6 may control the output of the heater 60 based on the determination result in the stain determination step. For example, when the control unit 6 determines that the type of stain on the laundry is sebum stain in the stain determination step, the control unit 6 may increase the output of the heater 60 compared to when the type of stain on the laundry is muddy stain. On the other hand, when the control unit 6 determines that the type of stain on the laundry is muddy stain in the stain determination step, the control unit 6 may decrease the output of the heater 60 compared to when the type of stain on the laundry is sebum stain.

[0042] (2) The control unit 6 may operate the heater 60 during the stain determination process. That is, the control unit 6 may execute the stain determination process while the wash water in the water tub 7 is heated by the heater 60. This configuration allows the stain determination process to be executed under conditions that promote the reaction between the wash water and the stains on the laundry. This allows the type of stain on the laundry to be determined with high accuracy.

[0043] (3) In the above-described embodiment, the foam sensor unit 50 includes a foam sensor 25 formed of a pressure switch. However, this configuration is not limited thereto. In a modified example, as shown in FIG. 5, the foam sensor unit 50 may include a foam sensor 125 formed of a capacitance switch. The foam sensor 125 includes two electrodes 90a, 90b. The two electrodes 90a, 90b face each other across the air tube 26. When foam generated in the water tub 7 reaches the air trap 39, the foam expands and contracts as the rotatable tub 9 rotates, changing the capacitance between the two electrodes 90a, 90b. The foam sensor 125 detects the amount of foam generated by detecting this change in capacitance. In a further modified example, the foam sensor 125 may include three or more electrodes.

[0044] (4) As shown in FIG. 6, washing machine 1 of a modified example may include a dirtiness detection sensor 40 that detects the dirtiness of the wash water in tub 7. Dirtiness detection sensor 40 is provided at the bottom of tub 7. Dirtiness detection sensor 40 is located at the lowest point of tub 7. Dirtiness detection sensor 40 includes a transmittance sensor that detects the transmittance of the wash water and / or a conductivity sensor that detects the conductivity of the wash water. Information on the detection value by dirtiness detection sensor 40 is sent to control unit 6.

[0045] In a modified example, the control unit 6 may adjust the water level in the water tub 7 during the main wash step (S8) based on the detection value of the soiling level detection sensor 40. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the laundry is muddy and the degree of soiling of the wash water detected by the soiling level detection sensor 40 is high (i.e., when the wash water is relatively dirty and the detection value of the soiling level detection sensor 40 is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference value), the control unit 6 may increase the water level in the water tub 7 during the main wash step. The control unit 6 increases the amount of water supplied to the water tub 7 by controlling the opening of the water supply valve 29 during the main wash step. On the other hand, when the laundry is muddy and the degree of soiling of the wash water detected by the soiling level detection sensor 40 is low (i.e., when the wash water is relatively clean and the detection value of the soiling level detection sensor 40 is less than a predetermined reference value), the control unit 6 may lower the water level in the water tub 7 during the main wash step compared to when the degree of soiling is high. The control unit 6 reduces the amount of water supplied to the water tub 7 by controlling the opening of the water supply valve 29 during the main washing process.

[0046] Furthermore, the control unit 6 may control the operation of the heater 60 in the main wash process based on the detection value of the soiling level detection sensor 40. For example, as shown in Fig. 7, when the type of soiling on the laundry is sebum soiling and the level of soiling of the wash water detected by the soiling level detection sensor 40 is high (i.e., when the wash water is relatively dirty and the detection value of the soiling level detection sensor 40 is equal to or higher than a predetermined reference value), the control unit 6 may operate the heater 60 in the main wash process. On the other hand, when the type of soiling on the laundry is sebum soiling and the level of soiling of the wash water detected by the soiling level detection sensor 40 is low (i.e., when the wash water is relatively clean and the detection value of the soiling level detection sensor 40 is lower than a predetermined reference value), the control unit 6 may stop the heater 60 in the main wash process.

[0047] (5) As shown in FIG. 8, the washing machine 1 of the modified example may include a communication unit 8. The communication unit 8 is connected to a network 72 such as the Internet. The control unit 6 can acquire predetermined information from the server 70 via the communication unit 8 and the network 72. For example, the control unit 6 acquires detergent information about the detergent used in the washing machine 1 from the server 70. The detergent information includes information such as the brand, ingredients, and approximate usage amount of the detergent. The control unit 6 may change the reference value T shown in FIG. 3 (i.e., the reference value T used to determine the type of soiling of the laundry) based on the detergent information acquired from the server 70. For example, when the control unit 6 determines that the detergent is easy to lather based on the detergent information, the control unit 6 may increase the reference value T. When the control unit 6 determines that the detergent is difficult to lather based on the detergent information, the control unit 6 may decrease the reference value T.

[0048] The degree of foaming of the wash water in the water tub 7 may differ depending on the detergent used. Therefore, by changing the reference value T based on the detergent information, the type of dirt on the laundry can be appropriately determined.

[0049] (6) As shown in FIG. 8, washing machine 1 of a modified example may include temperature sensor 80 (an example of a temperature detection unit) that detects the temperature of the wash water in water tub 7. Temperature sensor 80 is provided, for example, at the bottom of water tub 7. Information on the value detected by temperature sensor 80 is sent to control unit 6.

[0050] 3 (i.e., the reference value T when determining the type of soiling of the laundry) based on the detection value of the temperature sensor 80. For example, the control unit 6 may increase the reference value T when the detection value of the temperature sensor 80 is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold, and may decrease the reference value T when the detection value of the temperature sensor 80 is lower than the predetermined threshold.

[0051] The degree of foaming of the wash water in water tub 7 may vary depending on the temperature of the wash water. Therefore, by changing reference value T based on the value detected by temperature sensor 80, the type of dirt on the laundry can be appropriately determined.

[0052] (7) In the above-described embodiment, the reference value T for determining the type of soiling of the laundry is one, and the number of types of soiling is two. However, this is not limiting. In a modified example, the control unit 6 may be configured to determine three or more types of soiling based on two or more reference values ​​T.

[0053] (8) While the washing machine 1 in the above-described embodiment was a drum type, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. As shown in FIG. 9, a modified washing machine 100 may be configured as a vertical type. This washing machine 100 includes a pulsator 102 (an example of a rotor) that agitates the water in the water tub 7. The washing machine 100 also includes a motor 110 (an example of a second motor) that rotates the rotating tub 9 and / or the pulsator 102, and a power transmission mechanism 104 that transmits the rotation of the motor 110 to the rotating tub 9 and / or the pulsator 102.

[0054] Pulsator 102 is disposed at the bottom of spin tub 9. Pulsator 102 is disposed in a rotatable state within spin tub 9. The laundry and water in spin tub 9 are agitated by the rotation of pulsator 102.

[0055] The motor 110 is disposed within the housing 2 and is mechanically connected to the rotatable tub 9 and the pulsator 102 via the power transmission mechanism 104. Rotation of the motor 110 causes the rotatable tub 9 and / or the pulsator 102 to rotate. The power transmission mechanism 104 is disposed within the housing 2 and is mechanically connected to the motor 110, the rotatable tub 9, and the pulsator 102. The power transmission mechanism 104 includes, for example, gears, pulleys, and a clutch, and transmits the rotation of the motor 110 to the rotatable tub 9 and / or the pulsator 102. The power transmission mechanism 104 can switch the destination of the power transmission by switching the clutch. For example, switching the clutch of the power transmission mechanism 104 switches between a state in which the power of the motor 110 is transmitted to the rotatable tub 9 and a state in which the power of the motor 110 is transmitted to the pulsator 102. Alternatively, the power of the motor 110 may be transmitted to both the rotatable tub 9 and the pulsator 102.

[0056] In the washing machine 100 of the modified example, when the control unit 6 executes the dirt determination process (S6), the control unit 6 executes the dirt determination process with the motor 110 stopped. That is, the control unit 6 executes the dirt determination process with the pulsator 102 not rotating. As a result, the dirt determination process is executed with the wash water in the water tub 7 not being agitated. With this configuration, as in the above-described embodiment, it is possible to prevent erroneous determination of the type of dirt on the laundry, and to accurately determine the type of dirt on the laundry. When the pulsator 102 rotates, the wash water in the water tub 7 may be agitated and foamed. However, with the above-described configuration, the dirt determination process is executed with the rotation of the pulsator 102 stopped, so it is possible to prevent erroneous determination of the type of dirt on the laundry.

[0057] Although specific examples of the present invention have been described in detail above, these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and variations of the specific examples exemplified above. The technical elements described in this specification or drawings exhibit technical utility alone or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. Furthermore, the technology exemplified in this specification or drawings can achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving one of these objectives alone is technically useful. [Explanation of symbols]

[0058] 1: washing machine, 2: housing, 5: operation panel, 6: control unit, 7: water tank, 8: communication unit, 9: rotating tub, 10: motor, 14: water inlet, 15: drain outlet, 16: internal drain hose, 17: filter unit, 19: drain valve, 20: drain pipe, 21: circulation pump, 22: water supply hose, 23: fountain nozzle, 25: foam sensor, 26: air tube, 27: water supply unit, 29: water supply valve, 30: connection pipe, 31: water injection case, 32: water supply hose, 39: air trap, 40: temperature detection sensor, 50: foam sensor unit, 60: heater, 70: server, 72: network, 80: temperature sensor, 90a: electrode, 90b: electrode, 110: motor, 102: pulsator, 125: foam sensor

Claims

1. Aquarium and a water supply path for supplying water into the water tank; a water supply valve provided in the water supply path; a rotating tub disposed within the water tub; a first motor that rotates the rotating tub; a circulation path connected to the bottom of the water tub, for taking in the wash water from the bottom of the water tub and returning it back into the water tub; a circulation pump provided in the circulation path; a bubble detector provided on an upper portion of the water tank and configured to detect the amount of bubbles generated in the water tank; a control unit, The bubble detection unit includes an air trap communicating with the inside of the water tank and a sensor for detecting a pressure change in the air trap, The control unit is capable of executing a dirt determination process that determines the type of dirt on the laundry based on the detection value of the foam detection unit, and executes the dirt determination process with the circulation pump stopped.

2. Aquarium and a water supply path for supplying water into the water tank; a water supply valve provided in the water supply path; a rotor disposed within the water tank; a second motor that rotates the rotor; a bubble detector provided on an upper portion of the water tank and configured to detect the amount of bubbles generated in the water tank; a control unit, The bubble detection unit includes an air trap communicating with the inside of the water tank and a sensor for detecting a pressure change in the air trap, The control unit is capable of executing a dirt determination process that determines the type of dirt on the laundry based on the detection value of the foam detection unit, and executes the dirt determination process while the second motor is stopped.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the foam detection unit includes a plurality of electrodes.

4. 4. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is capable of executing a main wash process after the dirt determination process is completed, and controls the water supply valve to execute the dirt determination process in a state where the water level in the water tub during the dirt determination process is lower than the water level in the water tub during the main wash process.

5. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is capable of executing a pre-washing process before starting the dirt determining process.

6. Further, a heating unit is provided to heat the washing water in the water tub. The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit executes the contamination determining step in a state in which the washing water in the water tub is heated by the heating unit.

7. The washing machine further includes a dirtiness detection unit that detects the dirtiness of the wash water in the water tub, 7. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is capable of executing a main wash process after the dirt determination process is completed, and controls the water supply valve based on the detection value of the dirt level detection unit to adjust the water level in the water tub during the main wash process.

8. a dirtiness detection unit that detects the dirtiness of the wash water in the water tub; A heating unit that heats the wash water in the water tub, The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the control unit is capable of executing a main wash process after the dirt determination process is completed, and controls the operation of the heating unit in the main wash process based on the detection value of the dirt level detection unit.

9. 9. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is capable of executing a main wash process after the dirt determination process is completed, and controls the water supply valve to adjust the water level in the water tub in the main wash process based on the determination result in the dirt determination process.

10. The washing machine according to claim 1 or any one of claims 3 to 9 dependent on claim 1, wherein the control unit is capable of executing a main wash process after the dirt determination process is completed, is capable of changing the way laundry is washed by controlling the operation of the first motor in the main wash process, and controls the operation of the first motor in the main wash process based on the determination result in the dirt determination process.

11. Further, a heating unit is provided to heat the washing water in the water tub. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the control unit is capable of executing a main wash process after the dirt determination process is completed, and controls the operation of the heating unit in the main wash process based on a determination result in the dirt determination process.

12. Further comprising a communication unit, 12. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires detergent information related to a detergent used in the washing machine via the communication unit, and changes a reference value for determining a type of soiling of the laundry based on the acquired detergent information.

13. Further provided is a temperature detection unit for detecting the temperature of the washing water in the water tub, The washing machine according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit changes a reference value used to determine the type of soiling of the laundry based on the value detected by the temperature detection unit.

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