Cleaning equipment

Abstract

To provide a washing device capable of detecting with high accuracy a residual amount of a treatment agent stored in a storage unit, and capable of executing with high accuracy replenishment notification by a notification unit.SOLUTION: A dishwasher 1 includes a washing tank 7, a feeder 13, a storage tank 15, a residual amount detection unit 16, a notification lamp 42 and a control unit C1. A detergent 300 is stored in the storage tank 15. The feeder 13 automatically feeds the detergent 300 in the storage tank 15 to the washing tank 7. The residual amount detection unit 16 detects a residual amount of the detergent 300 in the storage tank 15. The notification lamp 42 performs replenishment notification of demanding replenishment of the detergent 300. The control unit C1 makes the notification lamp 42 start replenishment notification when a residual amount of the detergent 300 becomes smaller than a first predetermined amount after the residual amount detection unit 16 detects that a residual amount of the detergent 300 in the storage tank 15 becomes the first predetermined amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a conventional washing machine. This washing machine is specifically a washing machine, and includes a washing unit, a storage unit, a supply unit, an alarm unit, and a control unit. The washing unit stores the items to be washed and washes them. The storage unit stores the treatment agent to be used on the items to be washed. The supply unit automatically supplies the treatment agent from the storage unit to the washing unit. The supply unit has a motor capable of supplying a fixed amount of treatment agent to the washing unit. The alarm unit issues a replenishment notification to the user of the washing machine, requesting the replenishment of treatment agent. The control unit controls the supply unit and the alarm unit. The control unit also accumulates the driving time of the motor when supplying treatment agent. Furthermore, a predetermined time is set in the control unit.

[0003] In this cleaning device, when cleaning an object to be cleaned, the supply unit automatically supplies the processing agent to the cleaning unit, eliminating the need for the user to supply the processing agent to the cleaning unit. Furthermore, in this cleaning device, the control unit detects the remaining amount of processing agent by predicting the remaining amount of processing agent stored in the storage unit. Specifically, the control unit accumulates the motor drive time when supplying the processing agent and compares the accumulated motor drive time with a predetermined time. If the motor drive time reaches the predetermined time, the control unit detects that the remaining amount of processing agent stored in the storage unit is low. This causes the control unit to initiate a replenishment notification. In this way, this cleaning device makes it easy for the user to know when to replenish the processing agent. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-224489 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the conventional cleaning device, for example, there may be variations in the amount of treatment agent that a user replenishes in the storage unit, or the user may replenish the storage unit before the notification unit issues a replenishment notification. In these cases, the remaining amount of treatment agent in the storage unit detected by the control unit may differ from the actual remaining amount of treatment agent in the storage unit. As a result, the cleaning device is unable to accurately detect the remaining amount of treatment agent stored in the storage unit, and the notification unit is unable to accurately notify the user of the replenishment notification.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned conventional situation, and aims to solve the problem of providing a cleaning device that can accurately detect the remaining amount of processing agent stored in the storage section and can accurately issue a replenishment notification using the notification section. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The first washing apparatus of the present invention is a washing apparatus that performs a washing operation to wash an object to be washed, a cleaning unit that accommodates and cleans the object to be cleaned; a storage section for storing a treatment agent to be used on the object to be cleaned; a supply unit that automatically supplies a predetermined amount of the treatment agent from the storage unit to the cleaning unit for each execution of the cleaning operation; a remaining amount detection unit provided in the storage unit and configured to detect the remaining amount of the treatment agent in the storage unit; a notification unit capable of notifying a user of the cleaning device to request replenishment of the treatment agent; a control unit connected to the cleaning unit, the supply unit, the remaining amount detection unit, and the notification unit, and controlling the cleaning operation and the supply unit and the notification unit; the number of times that the supply unit supplies the predetermined amount of the treatment agent to the cleaning unit is referred to as the supply number; the amount of the treatment agent when the number of times of supply is a first predetermined number of times that is less than the maximum number of times is set to a first predetermined amount; The control unit is characterized in that, after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first predetermined amount, if the remaining amount becomes less than the first predetermined amount, the notification unit starts the replenishment notification.

[0008] In a first cleaning device of the present invention, a remaining amount detection unit detects the remaining amount of processing agent in a storage unit. Here, in this cleaning device, the number of times that the supply unit supplies a predetermined amount of processing agent to the cleaning unit is referred to as a supply count, and the amount of processing agent when the supply count is a first predetermined number that is less than the maximum supply count is referred to as a first predetermined amount. In this cleaning device, the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit has reached the first predetermined amount.

[0009] As a result, in this cleaning device, the remaining amount detection unit can detect the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit with higher accuracy than, for example, when the remaining amount of processing agent stored in the storage unit is detected from when it is at its maximum. In other words, in this cleaning device, even if the user voluntarily replenishes processing agent in the storage unit and the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit increases before the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit has reached the first predetermined amount, this does not affect the detection of the remaining amount of processing agent by the remaining amount detection unit.

[0010] Then, after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of treatment agent in the storage unit has reached a first predetermined amount, the control unit causes the notification unit to start a replenishment notification when the remaining amount of treatment agent in the storage unit falls below the first predetermined amount. Thus, in this cleaning device, the control unit does not cause the notification unit to start a replenishment notification when the remaining amount detection unit merely detects that the remaining amount of treatment agent has reached the first predetermined amount.

[0011] In other words, in this cleaning device, after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of processing agent has reached the first predetermined amount, there may be cases where the user voluntarily replenishes the processing agent in the storage unit before the notification unit starts to notify the user of replenishment. Furthermore, even if there is variation in the amount of processing agent replenished at this time, as long as the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit is greater than the first predetermined amount after the replenishment, the control unit will not cause the notification unit to start the replenishment notification.

[0012] In this manner, in this cleaning device, when the notification section starts the replenishment notification, the remaining amount of treatment agent in the storage section is actually less than the first predetermined amount.

[0013] Therefore, the first cleaning device of the present invention can detect the remaining amount of processing agent stored in the storage unit with high accuracy, and can also accurately execute the replenishment notification by the notification unit.

[0014] In the first cleaning device of the present invention, a supply count less than the first predetermined number may be set to a second predetermined number. Furthermore, the control unit may store the first predetermined number and the second predetermined number, as well as the supply count. Preferably, the control unit causes the notification unit to start a replenishment notification when the supply count reaches the second predetermined number after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first predetermined amount.

[0015] In this case, the control unit stores the number of supplies, allowing the control unit to accurately grasp the number of supplies. In this cleaning device, after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of treatment agent has reached a first predetermined amount, if the number of supplies reaches a second predetermined number that is less than the first predetermined number, the control unit causes the notification unit to initiate a replenishment notification. As a result, in this cleaning device, when the notification unit initiates the replenishment notification, the storage unit contains treatment agent, albeit less than the first predetermined amount. This effectively prevents the supply unit from operating when no treatment agent is stored in the storage unit.

[0016] In the first cleaning device of the present invention, a supply count less than the first predetermined number may be set to a second predetermined number, and a supply count greater than the second predetermined number but less than the first predetermined number may be set to a third predetermined number. Furthermore, the control unit may store the first predetermined number, the second predetermined number, and the third predetermined number, as well as the number of supplies. It is also preferable that the control unit cause the notification unit to start a replenishment notification when the supply count reaches the third predetermined number after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first predetermined amount.

[0017] In this case, the control unit stores the number of supplies, allowing the control unit to accurately grasp the number of supplies. In this cleaning device, after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of treatment agent has reached a first predetermined amount, if the number of supplies reaches a third predetermined number, the control unit causes the notification unit to initiate a replenishment notification. Here, the third predetermined number is greater than the second predetermined number but less than the first predetermined number. This allows the cleaning device to suitably prevent the supply unit from operating when no treatment agent is stored in the storage unit, while also suitably adjusting the period from when the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of treatment agent has reached the first predetermined amount until the notification unit initiates a replenishment notification.

[0018] In the first cleaning device of the present invention, the notification unit may be capable of issuing a first preliminary notification to notify the user that the remaining amount has reached a first predetermined amount. Preferably, the control unit causes the notification unit to start issuing the first preliminary notification before issuing the replenishment notification when the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first predetermined amount.

[0019] In this case, the first preliminary notification can notify the user that a replenishment notification may be issued in the near future. This makes it easier for the user to prepare the treatment agent for replenishment compared to when a replenishment notification is issued without the first preliminary notification. This improves the convenience of the first cleaning device.

[0020] The second washing device of the present invention is a washing device that performs a washing operation to wash an object to be washed, a cleaning unit that accommodates and cleans the object to be cleaned; a storage section for storing a treatment agent to be used on the object to be cleaned; a supply unit that automatically supplies a specific amount of the treatment agent from the storage unit to the cleaning unit for a predetermined time for one execution of the cleaning operation; a remaining amount detection unit provided in the storage unit and configured to detect the remaining amount of the treatment agent in the storage unit; a notification unit capable of notifying a user of the cleaning device to request replenishment of the treatment agent; a control unit connected to the cleaning unit, the supply unit, the remaining amount detection unit, and the notification unit, and controlling the cleaning operation and the supply unit and the notification unit; a time during which the supply unit supplies the specific amount of the treatment agent to the cleaning unit is defined as a supply time; the amount of the treatment agent when the supply time reaches a first predetermined time that is shorter than the longest time is set to a first specific amount; The control unit is characterized in that after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first specific amount, if the remaining amount becomes less than the first specific amount, it causes the notification unit to start the replenishment notification.

[0021] In the second cleaning device of the present invention, the remaining amount detection unit also detects the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit. Here, in this cleaning device, the time during which the supply unit supplies a specific amount of processing agent to the cleaning unit is defined as the supply time, and the amount of processing agent when a first predetermined time, which is shorter than the longest supply time, is reached is defined as a first specific amount. In this cleaning device, the remaining amount detection unit detects when the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit has reached the first specific amount. Thus, in this cleaning device, as in the first cleaning device of the present invention, the remaining amount detection unit can accurately detect the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit.

[0022] Then, after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit has reached a first specific amount, the control unit causes the notification unit to start a replenishment notification when the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit falls below the first predetermined amount. As a result, in this cleaning device, the control unit does not cause the notification unit to start a replenishment notification just when the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of processing agent has reached the first specific amount. As a result, in this cleaning device, when the notification unit starts a replenishment notification, the remaining amount of processing agent in the storage unit is actually less than the first specific amount.

[0023] Therefore, the second cleaning device of the present invention can detect the remaining amount of processing agent stored in the storage unit with high accuracy, and can also accurately execute replenishment notification by the notification unit.

[0024] In the second cleaning device of the present invention, the supply time shorter than the first predetermined time may be a second predetermined time. Furthermore, the control unit may store the first predetermined time and the second predetermined time, as well as an accumulated supply time obtained by accumulating the supply time after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first specific amount. Preferably, the control unit then causes the notification unit to start a replenishment notification when the accumulated supply time reaches the second predetermined time.

[0025] Because the second predetermined time is shorter than the first predetermined time, in this cleaning device, when the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of treatment agent has reached the first specific amount and the notification unit begins to notify the user of replenishment, the storage unit will still contain some treatment agent, albeit less than the first specific amount. Therefore, this cleaning device can also effectively prevent the supply unit from operating when no treatment agent is stored in the storage unit.

[0026] In a second cleaning device of the present invention, a supply time shorter than the first predetermined time may be defined as a second predetermined time, and a supply time longer than the second predetermined time but shorter than the first predetermined time may be defined as a third predetermined time. Furthermore, the control unit may store the first predetermined time, the second predetermined time, and the third predetermined time, as well as an accumulated supply time calculated by accumulating the supply time after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first specific amount. It is also preferable that the control unit start a replenishment notification when the accumulated supply time reaches the third predetermined time.

[0027] This allows this cleaning device to preferably prevent the supply unit from operating when there is no processing agent stored in the storage unit, while also preferably adjusting the period from when the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount of processing agent has reached a first specific amount until the notification unit begins to notify about replenishment.

[0028] In the second cleaning device of the present invention, the notification unit may be capable of issuing a second preliminary notification to notify the user that the remaining amount has reached the first specific amount. Preferably, the control unit causes the notification unit to issue the second preliminary notification before issuing the replenishment notification when the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first specific amount.

[0029] In this case, the second preliminary notification can notify the user that a replenishment notification will be issued in the near future, allowing the user to prepare the treatment agent appropriately for replenishment, thereby improving the convenience of the second cleaning device.

[0030] In the first and second cleaning devices of the present invention, the processing agent may be in a liquid state, and the remaining amount detection unit preferably includes a float provided with a magnet and displaceable within the storage unit, and a detection sensor capable of detecting the position of the float within the storage unit by the magnetism of the magnet.

[0031] In this case, the remaining amount detection section can be simplified in configuration, while still being able to suitably detect the remaining amount of liquid processing agent stored in the storage section. [Effects of the Invention]

[0032] The first and second cleaning devices of the present invention are capable of detecting the remaining amount of processing agent stored in the storage unit with high accuracy, and are also capable of accurately issuing a replenishment notification by the notification unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a dishwasher according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing a moving body of the dishwasher of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a moving body of the dishwasher of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the storage unit of the dishwasher of the first embodiment when a large amount of treatment agent remains. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the storage unit of the dishwasher of the first embodiment when the remaining amount of the treatment agent is the first predetermined amount. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the washing process of the dishwasher of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing a control flow when detecting the remaining amount of treatment agent in the storage unit in the dishwasher of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing a control flow when detecting the remaining amount of treatment agent in the storage unit in the dishwasher of the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front view showing a moving body of the dishwasher according to the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing a control flow when detecting the remaining amount of treatment agent in the storage unit in the dishwasher of the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a control flow when detecting the remaining amount of treatment agent in the storage unit in the dishwasher of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the storage unit of the dishwasher of the fifth embodiment when the remaining amount of the treatment agent is the first predetermined amount. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] Hereinafter, first to fifth embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0035] Example 1 1 and 2, the dishwasher 1 of Example 1 is incorporated into a system kitchen 100 and is installed below a countertop CT1 of the system kitchen 100. The dishwasher 1 is an example of the "washing device" of the present invention.

[0036] In this embodiment, the arrows shown in Fig. 1 define the front-rear direction and the up-down direction of the dishwasher 1. In Fig. 2, the up-down direction of the dishwasher 1 is defined in accordance with Fig. 1, and the left-right direction, i.e., the width direction, of the dishwasher 1 is also defined. In Fig. 3 and subsequent Figs., the front-rear direction, the up-down direction, and the left-right direction of the dishwasher 1 are defined in accordance with Figs. 1 and 2. The front-rear direction, the up-down direction, and the left-right direction are perpendicular to one another.

[0037] As shown in Figure 1, the dishwasher 1 includes a housing 3 and a movable body 5. The housing 3 is formed in a substantially rectangular box shape. The housing 3 has a housing opening 3h. The housing opening 3h is located at the front of the housing 3, and connects the inside and outside of the housing 3.

[0038] A cover member 35, a water supply pipe P1, a water supply electromagnetic valve 37, and a drain pipe P2 are provided inside the housing 3. The cover member 35 is disposed inside the housing 3 at a position above the moving body 5.

[0039] Water supply pipe P1 supplies water to supply device 13 from a water supply source (not shown) provided outside dishwasher 1. Water supply electromagnetic valve 37 opens and closes water supply pipe P1 to switch between supplying and stopping water to supply device 13. Drain pipe P2 drains wash water in washing tub 7 to the outside of dishwasher 1. The wash water, in addition to supply device 13 and washing tub 7, will be described later.

[0040] The movable body 5 has a cleaning tank 7, a front panel 9, an upper panel 11, a supply device 13, a control unit C1, and a storage tank 15. The cleaning tank 7 is an example of the "cleaning unit" in the present invention. The supply device 13 is an example of the "supply unit" in the present invention. The storage tank 15 is an example of the "storage unit" in the present invention.

[0041] The movable body 5 is attached to the housing 3 and is movable in the front-rear direction relative to the housing 3. When the movable body 5 moves forward relative to the housing 3, it is exposed to the outside of the housing 3 through the housing opening 3h. Here, FIG. 1 illustrates a state in which the movable body 5 has moved to the rearmost position relative to the housing 3. When the movable body 5 is located inside the housing 3, the cover member 35 moves downward to close the upper part of a cleaning space 7h, which will be described later.

[0042] The washing tank 7 is generally rectangular. A washing space 7h, an exhaust passage 7a, and a heater chamber 72 are formed in the washing tank 7. The washing space 7h is located approximately in the center of the washing tank 7 in the front-to-back and left-to-right directions. The washing space 7h is open at the top and can accommodate tableware TW1 therein, and washes the accommodated tableware TW1. The tableware TW1 may be, for example, eating and drinking vessels such as bowls, plates, and glasses, as well as eating and drinking utensils such as chopsticks, spoons, and forks, and is an example of the "item to be washed" in the present invention. A dish basket 70 is also arranged inside the washing space 7h. The tableware TW1 is placed in the dish basket 70.

[0043] The cleaning space 7h also has a water storage chamber 71. The water storage chamber 71 is located at the bottom of the cleaning tank 7. The water storage chamber 71 is capable of storing cleaning water. The water storage chamber 71 is also connected to a drain pipe P2 at the bottom. Here, the cleaning water may be composed only of water that has flowed through the water supply pipe P1, or may be composed of water that has flowed through the water supply pipe P1 mixed with liquid detergent 300 (see Figures 4 and 5). The detergent 300 is an example of the "treatment agent" in this invention.

[0044] The water storage chamber 71 is provided with a nozzle 73 and a water storage chamber filter 74. The nozzle 73 has multiple discharge holes, and cleaning water can be sprayed from each discharge hole into the cleaning space 7h. The water storage chamber filter 74 removes foreign matter such as food scraps that have become mixed in the cleaning water.

[0045] The exhaust passage 7a extends forward inside the washing tub 7 while communicating with the washing space 7h at its rear end and opens to the front panel 9. As a result, the exhaust passage 7a communicates between the washing space 7h and the outside of the washing tub 7, i.e., the outside of the dishwasher 1. The exhaust passage 7a may be configured to communicate with the washing space 7h and open to the top panel 11.

[0046] The heater chamber 72 is disposed at the rear lower part of the cleaning tank 7. A heater 72a is provided inside the heater chamber 72. The heater 72a is capable of heating the cleaning water and the air in the cleaning space 7h to a predetermined temperature.

[0047] The washing tub 7 is also provided with a wash water pump 75, a drying fan 77, and a water level sensor (not shown). The wash water pump 75 is mounted to the bottom of the water storage chamber 71. When operating in forward direction, the wash water pump 75 supplies wash water that has passed through a water storage chamber filter 74 in the water storage chamber 71 to the nozzle 73. When operating in reverse direction, the wash water pump 75 circulates the wash water through the drain pipe P2. The drying fan 77 is capable of introducing air from outside the dishwasher 1 and supplying it into the washing space 7h. The water level sensor is capable of allowing some of the wash water to flow into it, and detects the level of the wash water in the washing space 7h through this wash water.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 2, the front panel 9 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate extending in the vertical and horizontal directions. The front panel 9 is attached to the front of the cleaning tank 7. In this case, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the front panel 9 is attached to the front of the cleaning tank 7 while forming an accommodation space 90 between the front panel 9 and the cleaning tank 7. In Fig. 2, the front panel 9 is shown by imaginary lines for ease of explanation.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 3, the top panel 11 is located in front of and above the cleaning tank 7 and is attached to the top of the cleaning tank 7. The top panel 11 has a main body 11a and an extension 11b. The main body 11a is located at the front end of the top panel 11 and extends in a generally rectangular shape in the left-right direction. As shown in Fig. 2, a grip 111 is provided at approximately the center of the main body 11a in the left-right direction.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 3, the extension portion 11b is integral with the main body portion 11a and extends rearward from the main body portion 11a. A communication opening 112 is formed in the extension portion 11b. The communication opening 112 has a rectangular shape that penetrates the extension portion 11b in the vertical direction and communicates with the storage space 90. A lid 112a is attached to the extension portion 11b so as to be able to swing. The lid 112a is displaceable between a closed position indicated by solid lines in FIG. 3 and an open position indicated by imaginary lines. In the closed position, the lid 112a covers the communication opening 112 from above and closes the communication opening 112. In the open position, the lid 112a opens the communication opening 112 to the outside of the movable body 5.

[0051] Furthermore, the extending portion 11b is provided with an operation unit 40, a liquid crystal panel 41, and a notification lamp 42. The notification lamp 42 is an example of the "notification unit" in the present invention.

[0052] The operation unit 40 is made up of multiple operation buttons, and is used by a user (not shown) of the dishwasher 1 to operate the dishwasher 1. Specifically, the user uses the operation unit 40 to select the type of wash operation, the wash operation time, and whether or not to enable an automatic detergent supply mode that automatically supplies detergent 300 to the washing space 7h. The LCD panel 41 displays the type of wash operation and the wash operation time selected by the user. The LCD panel 41 also displays when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage tank 15 is at its maximum.

[0053] The notification lamp 42 is composed of an LED (light emitting diode) and can be switched between on, flashing, and off. By switching between on, flashing, and off, the notification lamp 42 issues a replenishment notification to the user requesting the replenishment of the detergent 300 in the storage tank 15. Details regarding the replenishment notification by the notification lamp 42 will be described later. The notification lamp 42 may also issue a replenishment notification by changing the color of its emitted light, etc.

[0054] The operation unit 40, the liquid crystal panel 41, and the notification lamp 42 may be provided on the main body 11a of the top panel 11, or may be provided on the front panel 9, etc. Furthermore, the operation unit 40, the liquid crystal panel 41, and the notification lamp 42 may be individually arranged on the main body 11a, the extension 11b, the front panel 9, etc.

[0055] As shown in Fig. 2, the supply device 13 is attached to the front lower portion of the cleaning tank 7 and is located at the bottom within the storage space 90. As shown in Fig. 1, the supply device 13 has a device main body 13a, a supply passage 13b, and a connection passage 13c. The device main body 13a is connected to a water supply pipe P1. As shown in Fig. 2, a first supply pump 131 is provided inside the device main body 13a.

[0056] The first supply pump 131 is rotationally driven to supply the detergent 300 stored in the storage tank 15 to the washing tub 7, more specifically to the washing space 7h. In the dishwasher 1 of Example 1, the first supply pump 131 is capable of supplying 1 cc of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h by performing one rotational drive. The amount of detergent 300 supplied per one rotational drive of the first supply pump 131 can be designed as appropriate.

[0057] Although not shown, the device body 13a is provided with a water supply pump that supplies water from the water supply pipe P1 to the cleaning space 7h, as well as electromagnetic valves that can open and close the supply passage 13b and the connection passage 13c. As shown in Fig. 1, the supply passage 13b connects the device body 13a to the cleaning tank 7 and communicates the device body 13a with the water storage chamber 71. The connection passage 13c extends upward from the device body 13a.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit C1 is attached to the front of the washing tub 7 and is located within the storage space 90. The control unit C1 stores a control program for controlling the operation of the dishwasher 1. The control unit C1 is electrically connected to the operation unit 40, the LCD panel 41, the notification lamp 42, the water supply solenoid valve 37, the heater 72a, the wash water pump 75, and the drying fan 77, as well as to the supply device 13 and the water level sensor. The control unit C1 controls the supply device 13 and other components based on the control program to operate the dishwasher 1. The control unit C1 also controls the notification lamp 42, turning it on, blinking, and extinguishing it. The control unit C1 also executes a check mode during the wash operation and detects the ON and OFF states of the first reed switch 18 and the second reed switch 19, which will be described later.

[0059] The control unit C1 also has a counter C10. The counter C10 counts the number of washing operations for washing the dishes TW1 and the number of supplies, which is the number of times the supply device 13 supplies a predetermined amount of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h. The control unit C1 then stores the number of washing operations and the number of supplies counted by the counter C10. The washing operation and the check mode will be described in detail later.

[0060] In the dishwasher 1 of Example 1, the supply device 13 supplies 10 cc of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h per wash operation, which is the "predetermined amount" of the present invention. As described above, the first supply pump 131 of the supply device 13 supplies 1 cc of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h with one rotation. Therefore, the first supply pump 131 is rotated 10 times per wash operation to supply 10 cc of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h. The value of the predetermined amount can be set appropriately depending on, for example, the properties and concentration of the detergent 300.

[0061] The counter C10 counts the number of cleaning operations by one each time the cleaning operation is performed. The counter C10 also counts the number of supplies by one each time the supply device 13 supplies 10 cc of detergent 300 to the cleaning space 7h. That is, the number of cleaning operations counted by the counter C10 and the number of supplies match. The counter C10 may count the number of supplies based on the number of cleaning operations, or conversely, may count cleaning operations based on the number of supplies. In this case, the counter C10 may count the number of cleaning operations each time the first supply pump 131 performs 10 rotations. Furthermore, the counter C10 may count only either the number of cleaning operations or the number of supplies.

[0062] In the dishwasher 1 of Example 1, the first predetermined number of times is set to 10. The second predetermined number of times is set to 3, and the third predetermined number of times is set to 8. The control unit C1 stores these first predetermined number, second predetermined number, and third predetermined number. In this dishwasher 1, when the amount of detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 (described later) is at its maximum, the number of times of supply is maximized and is greater than 10. The first predetermined number can be set as appropriate as long as it is less than the maximum number of times of supply. The second predetermined number can be set as appropriate as long as it is less than the first predetermined number, and the third predetermined number can be set as appropriate as long as it is greater than the second predetermined number but less than the first predetermined number.

[0063] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the storage tank 15 has a bottom wall 15a, an upper wall 15b, a first peripheral wall 15c, and a second peripheral wall 15d. The bottom wall 15a is located at the bottom of the storage tank 15. The upper wall 15b is located at the top of the storage tank 15. The first peripheral wall 15c is connected to the bottom wall 15a. The first peripheral wall 15c runs around the bottom wall 15a along the outer periphery of the bottom wall 15a in the circumferential direction and extends upward from the bottom wall 15a. The second peripheral wall 15d is connected to the upper wall 15b. The second peripheral wall 15d runs around the top wall 15b in the circumferential direction along the outer periphery of the top wall 15b and extends downward from the top wall 15b. The lower end of the second peripheral wall 15d is joined to the upper end of the first peripheral wall 15c. The bottom wall 15a, the top wall 15b, the first peripheral wall 15c, and the second peripheral wall 15d form the storage tank 15 in a generally rectangular box shape. A storage chamber 150 for storing the detergent 300 is provided inside the storage tank 15.

[0064] A supply port 151 communicating with the storage chamber 150 is formed in the bottom wall 15a. A connection passage 13c of the supply device 13 is connected to this supply port 151. This connects the storage chamber 150, and therefore the storage tank 15, to the supply device 13. Meanwhile, a refill port 152 is formed in the top wall 15b. The refill port 152 communicates with the storage chamber 150 and opens upward in the storage tank 15. The detergent 300 can be refilled into the storage chamber 150 through this refill port 152.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 2, the storage tank 15 is fixed to the front of the cleaning tank 7 by the first mounting screw 21a and the second mounting screw 21b. In this way, the storage tank 15 is fixed to the front of the cleaning tank 7 while connected to the supply device 13. As a result, the supply port 152 of the storage tank 15 is located below the communication port 112 (see Fig. 3) of the top panel 11 and faces the communication port 112.

[0066] 4 and 5, the storage tank 15 is provided with a remaining amount detection unit 16. The remaining amount detection unit 16 is composed of a float 17, a first reed switch 18, and a second reed switch 19. The first reed switch 18 and the second reed switch 19 are examples of the "detection sensor" of the present invention. The first reed switch 18 and the second reed switch 19 are connected to the control unit C1.

[0067] The float 17 is housed in the storage chamber 150. The float 17 has a float body 17a, an arm 17b, and a connecting shaft 17c. The float body 17a is formed in a hollow box shape having a substantially rectangular shape, and air is present inside. This allows the float body 17a to float relative to the detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150. A magnet 170 is fixed inside the float body 17a. The shape of the float body 17a can be designed as appropriate.

[0068] The arm 17b extends in the left-right direction and is connected at its left end to the float body 17a. The right side of the arm 17b extends upward while moving away from the float body 17a. The connecting shaft 17c is provided at the right end of the arm 17b and is integral with the arm 17b. The connecting shaft 17c extends linearly in the front-rear direction.

[0069] The connecting shaft 17c of the float 17 is held in a swingable manner in the holding groove 153 of the first peripheral wall 15c, thereby connecting the float 17 to the first peripheral wall 15c. The float 17 can swing up and down within the storage chamber 150 around the swing axis, which is the axis of the connecting shaft 17c.

[0070] In this way, when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is large, including when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is at its maximum as shown in Fig. 4, the float 17 swings upward within the storage chamber 150 around the swing axis. On the other hand, when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is small, including when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is the first predetermined amount as shown in Fig. 5, the float 17 swings downward within the storage chamber 150 around the swing axis.

[0071] Here, the first predetermined amount is an amount that is less than the maximum remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 and more than zero, and is the amount of detergent 300 when the number of supplies is the first predetermined number. Specifically, in the dishwasher 1 of Example 1, the first predetermined number of supplies is set to 10 times. 10 cc of detergent 300 is supplied for each wash operation. Therefore, 100 cc is set as the first predetermined amount. The first predetermined amount can be set appropriately depending on the first predetermined number of times.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 2, the first reed switch 18 and the first reed switch 19 are provided on the front surface of the first peripheral wall 15c. As a result, the first reed switch 18 and the first reed switch 19 are both located outside the storage chamber 150. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the first reed switch 18 is provided on the front surface of the first peripheral wall 15c near the upper part of the first peripheral wall 15c, and the second reed switch 19 is provided on the front surface of the first peripheral wall 15c near the lower part of the first peripheral wall 15c. In other words, the second reed switch 19 is located below the first reed switch 18 and near the bottom wall 15a. Note that in FIGS. 4 and 5, the first reed switch 18 and the first reed switch 19 are shown with phantom lines for ease of explanation. The first reed switch 18 and the first reed switch 19 may also be provided on the rear surface of the first peripheral wall 15c.

[0073] The first reed switch 18 and the second reed switch 19 are each capable of detecting the magnetism of the magnet 170 of the float 17. As a result, the remaining amount detection unit 16, more specifically the first reed switch 18 and the second reed switch 19, detects the position of the float main body 17a within the storage chamber 150, and detects the remaining amount of detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 based on the position of the float main body 17a.

[0074] Specifically, the first reed switch 18 is turned ON by detecting the magnetism of the magnet 170. As a result, the first reed switch 18 detects that the float body 17a is located above the storage chamber 150, and detects the amount of detergent 300 remaining at the position of the float body 17a at this time. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, the first reed switch 18 detects the magnetism of the magnet 170, and thus the first reed switch 18 detects that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is maximum. The control unit C1 also detects that the first reed switch 18 is in the ON state. As a result, the control unit C1 displays on the liquid crystal panel 41 that the remaining amount of detergent 300 is maximum. Note that even if more detergent 300 than the amount of detergent 300 shown in FIG. 4 is replenished into the storage chamber 150, the float body 17a is restricted from swinging upward by the upper wall 15b. Therefore, even in such a case, the first reed switch 18 can detect the magnetic field of the magnet 170 and maintains the ON state, so the LCD panel 41 continues to display that the remaining amount of detergent 300 is at its maximum.

[0075] On the other hand, if the amount of detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 falls below the maximum amount and the float body 17a swings downward, the first reed switch 18 will no longer be able to detect the magnetic field of the magnet 170. As a result, the first reed switch 18 will be in the OFF state. This will cause the control unit C1 to detect that the first reed switch 18 is in the OFF state. Therefore, the control unit C1 will control the liquid crystal panel 41 to stop displaying that the remaining amount of detergent 300 is at its maximum.

[0076] When the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 reaches the first predetermined amount shown in FIG. 5 and the float 17 swings downward to the position shown in FIG. 5, the second reed switch 19 detects the magnetism of the magnet 170. This causes the second reed switch 19 to turn ON. That is, the second reed switch 19 turns ON when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 reaches 100 cc. In this way, the second reed switch 19 detects that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is the first predetermined amount. The control unit C1 also detects that the second reed switch 19 is ON. Here, even if the remaining amount of detergent 300 falls below 100 cc, the float body 17a is restricted from swinging downward by the bottom wall 15a. Therefore, even in this case, the second reed switch 19 can detect the magnetism of the magnet 170 and maintains the ON state.

[0077] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4, when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is greater than the first predetermined amount, including when the remaining amount of detergent 300 is at its maximum, the second reed switch 19 cannot detect the magnetism of the magnet 170 and is therefore in the OFF state. This allows the control unit C1 to detect that the second reed switch 19 is in the OFF state. Furthermore, if the remaining amount of detergent 300 becomes greater than the first predetermined amount as a result of detergent 300 being replenished after the second reed switch 19 has been turned ON once, the second reed switch 19 will also be in the OFF state. In this case, the control unit C1 will also detect that the second reed switch 19 is in the OFF state. The position of the second reed switch 19 provided in the storage tank 15 can be designed as appropriate.

[0078] Also, the first reed switch 18 may be omitted, and the remaining amount detection unit 16 may be configured by the float 17 and the second reed switch 19. Furthermore, instead of the liquid crystal panel 41, the notification lamp 42 may light up or flash to notify the user that the detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 is at its maximum. In this case, the notification lamp 42 may notify the user that the detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 is at its maximum by using a color different from that used for the replenishment notification.

[0079] In the dishwasher 1 configured as described above, the user can operate the operation unit 40 to perform a wash operation to wash the dishes TW1, a rinse operation to rinse the dishes TW1, and a dry operation to dry the dishes TW1 while placing the dishes TW1 in the dish basket 70 in the washing space 7h. The control unit C1 also controls the operation of the water supply solenoid valve 37, the supply device 13, and other components according to the wash operation, rinse operation, and dry operation, respectively, based on a control program. In addition to performing the wash operation, rinse operation, and dry operation in this dishwasher 1 in this order, the wash operation, rinse operation, and dry operation can also be performed individually.

[0080] Furthermore, in this dishwasher 1, the user can supply detergent 300 to the washing space 7h by themselves, or the user can operate the operating unit 40 to activate the automatic detergent supply mode, which allows the supply device 13 to automatically supply detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 of the storage tank 15 to the washing space 7h during the wash operation. By having the supply device 13 automatically supply detergent 300 in this way, the dishwasher eliminates the need for the user to supply detergent 300 by themselves and also prevents the user from forgetting to supply detergent 300. Furthermore, because the supply device 13 supplies a specific amount of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h, this dishwasher is less likely to have variations in the amount of detergent 300 supplied.

[0081] In addition, in this dishwasher 1, by displacing the lid body 112a shown in Figure 3 to the open position, detergent 300 can be easily replenished into the storage chamber 150 through the communication port 112 and the refill port 152 of the storage tank 15.

[0082] Furthermore, in this dishwasher 1, the remaining amount detection unit 16 detects the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150, and the notification lamp 42 notifies the user to replenish the detergent 300. This will be explained in detail below.

[0083] 6, when the washing operation is started, the control unit C1 determines whether the automatic detergent supply mode is being executed (step S101). If the automatic detergent supply mode is being executed (step S101: YES), the control unit C1 executes the check mode (step S102).

[0084] As shown in FIG. 7, the control unit C1 starts the check mode and determines whether the second reed switch 19 is in the ON state (step S201). If the control unit C1 detects that the second reed switch 19 is in the OFF state, it determines that the second reed switch 19 is not in the ON state (step S201: NO). That is, if the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is greater than the first predetermined amount and the second reed switch 19 is in the OFF state, the control unit C1 resets the number of washing operations and the number of supplies counted by the counter C10 to zero (step S202). That is, the control unit C1 resets the number of washing operations and the number of supplies counted by the counter C10. The control unit C1 then stores this zero value (step S203). In this way, the control unit C1 ends the check mode. The control unit C1 keeps the notification lamp 42 off until it flashes the notification lamp 42 in step S208, which will be described later.

[0085] After the check mode is thus ended, the control unit C1 controls the operation of the supply device 13 and activates the first supply pump 131. As a result, the first supply pump 131 starts supplying the detergent 300 to the washing space 7h (step S103 in FIG. 6). This supply of the detergent 300 continues until a predetermined amount of 10 cc of the detergent 300 has been supplied to the washing space 7h (step S104: NO).

[0086] As described above, the first supply pump 131 can supply 1 cc of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h with one rotation. Therefore, if the first supply pump 131 performs 10 rotations, the amount of detergent 300 supplied to the washing space 7h will reach 10 cc (step S104: YES). As a result, the control unit C1 stops the first supply pump 131. Thus, the supply of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h ends (step S105). Furthermore, the counter C10 adds 1 to each of the counted number of washing operations and the number of supplies (step S106). That is, if the number of washing operations and the number of supplies were both set to zero in the check mode performed in step S102, the counter C10 counts the number of washing operations as 1 and the number of supplies as 1 in step S106.

[0087] After this, the control unit C1 executes the check mode again (step S107). In this case, the control unit C1 first determines whether the second reed switch 19 is in the ON state (step S201 in FIG. 7). Here, when the control unit C1 executes the check mode in step S107 in FIG. 6, the supply of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h has been completed. Therefore, the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 will be reduced compared to when the control unit C1 executes the check mode in step S102. More precisely, unless the user voluntarily replenishes detergent 300 between the execution of the check mode in step S102 and the execution of the check mode in step S107, the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 will be reduced when the check mode is executed in step S107.

[0088] In this way, even if the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is reduced, as long as it is greater than the first predetermined amount, the second reed switch 19 will not be turned ON (step S201: NO). As a result, the control unit C1 corrects the number of wash operations and the number of supplies, which the counter C10 counted as one in step S106 of Fig. 6, to zero (step S202 of Fig. 7), and stores this zero value (step S203). In this way, the control unit C1 ends the check mode.

[0089] Thus, in the dishwasher 1 of Example 1, even if detergent 300 is supplied to the washing space 7h in steps S103 to S105 of Figure 6 and the counter C10 counts the number of washing operations and the number of supplies in step S106, if the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is greater than the first predetermined amount, the number of washing operations and the number of supplies are always reset to zero.

[0090] Then, after completing the check mode in step S107, the control unit C1 opens the water supply electromagnetic valve 37 (step S108). This causes water to be supplied to the washing space 7h through the water supply pipe P1 and the supply device 13. This water supply continues until the water level sensor determines that the specified water level has been reached (step S109: NO).

[0091] On the other hand, if the specified water level is reached (step S109: YES), the control unit C1 closes the water supply electromagnetic valve 37 (step S110) and stops the supply of water to the washing space 7h. In this way, the detergent 300 and water are mixed in the washing space 7h.

[0092] After the supply of water to the washing space 7h is completed, the control unit C1 activates the washing water pump 75 and the nozzle 73, etc., to start washing the tableware TW1 in the washing space 7h (step S111). Then, after a predetermined washing operation time has elapsed, the washing operation ends.

[0093] Furthermore, in this dishwasher 1, if the automatic detergent supply mode is not being executed (step S101: NO), the control unit C1 does not perform the processes of steps S102 to S107 during the washing operation.

[0094] On the other hand, if the washing operation is performed multiple times and the supply device 13 supplies the detergent 300 to the washing space 7h multiple times, and the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 reaches the first predetermined amount, i.e., 100 cc, the second reed switch 19 will be turned ON. Therefore, the control unit C1 determines that the second reed switch 19 is in the ON state (step S201: YES).

[0095] As a result, the control unit C1 checks the number of cleaning operations and the number of supplies currently counted by the counter C10 (step S204).

[0096] If the number of washing operations and the number of supplies are less than the second predetermined number of times (3 times) or the third predetermined number of times (8 times), such as 1 or 2 (step S205: NO, step S206: NO), the control unit C1 stores the number of washing operations and the number of supplies currently counted by the counter C10 (step S207).Then, the control unit C1 ends the check mode.

[0097] Thus, when the second reed switch 19 is in the ON state, unlike in step S203, the control unit C1 does not reset the number of cleaning operations and the number of supplies counted by the counter C10. Therefore, for example, if the counter C10 currently counts the number of cleaning operations and the number of supplies as one, and detergent 300 is subsequently supplied to the cleaning space 7h, the counter C10 will add one to each of the current number of cleaning operations and the number of supplies. Therefore, in this case, the number of cleaning operations and the number of supplies counted by the counter C10 will each be two.

[0098] On the other hand, if the number of washing operations and the number of supplies checked in step S204 are three (step S205: NO, step S206: YES), this means that three washing operations have been performed since second reed switch 19 was turned on. In other words, this means that detergent 300 has been supplied to washing space 7h by supply device 13 three times since second reed switch 19 detected that the remaining amount of detergent 300 was the first predetermined amount. Therefore, the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 is 70 cc, which is 30 cc, the amount for three supplies, consumed from 100 cc.

[0099] As a result, the control unit C1 blinks the notification lamp 42 (step S208). That is, the notification lamp 42 is switched from off to blinking. In this way, the notification lamp 42 notifies the user of replenishment. The control unit C1 also stores the number of washing operations and the number of supplies currently counted by the counter C10 (step S209). Then, the control unit C1 ends the check mode. As a result, the detergent 300 is subsequently supplied to the washing space 7h, and the counter C10 counts the number of washing operations and the number of supplies as four, respectively. Note that if the number of washing operations and the number of supplies counted by the counter C10 are three to seven, the processes of steps S208 and S209 are performed.

[0100] If the number of flushing operations and the number of supplies checked in step S204 are eight (step S205: YES), eight flushing operations have been performed, and therefore, eight supplies of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h have been performed since the second reed switch 19 was turned on. Therefore, the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is 20 cc.

[0101] This causes the control unit C1 to turn on the notification lamp 42 (step S210). That is, the notification lamp 42 is switched from flashing to lighting. In this way, the notification lamp 42 notifies the user that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is lower than when it was flashing, while still providing a replenishment notification, and requests the user to quickly replenish the detergent 300.

[0102] Furthermore, the control unit C1 stops the automatic detergent supply mode (step S211). As a result, from then on, the automatic supply of detergent 300 by the supply device 13 is stopped until the user replenishes detergent 300 and the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 exceeds 100 cc. The control unit C1 also stores the number of eight washing operations and the number of eight supplies (step S212). In this way, the control unit C1 ends the check mode. Note that, since the control unit C1 stops the automatic detergent supply mode in step S211, the number of washing operations and the number of supplies counted by the counter C10 do not increase thereafter.

[0103] In this way, in dishwasher 1 of Example 1, second reed switch 19 detects that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 has reached the first predetermined amount, 100 cc. This allows second reed switch 19 to detect the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 with higher accuracy than, for example, a case in which the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 is detected from when it is at its maximum. In other words, in this dishwasher 1, even if the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 increases because the user voluntarily replenishes detergent 300 before second reed switch 19 detects that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 has reached 100 cc, this does not affect the detection of the remaining amount of detergent 300 by second reed switch 19.

[0104] Furthermore, when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 reaches 100 cc and the second reed switch 19 is turned ON, the control unit C1 detects that the second reed switch 19 is turned ON. In other words, the control unit C1 detects, through the second reed switch 19 being turned ON, that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is the amount for the remaining 10 dispenses.

[0105] Then, after second reed switch 19 detects that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 has reached 100 cc, that is, after second reed switch 19 is turned ON, if the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 falls below 100 cc, control unit C1 will blink or light up notification lamp 42. Thus, in this dishwasher 1, control unit C1 will not blink or light up notification lamp 42 when second reed switch 19 has only detected that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 has reached 100 cc, that is, when second reed switch 19 has only detected that it is ON.

[0106] That is, in this dishwasher 1, after second reed switch 19 detects that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 has reached 100 cc, the user may voluntarily replenish detergent 300 into storage chamber 150 before control unit C1 causes notification lamp 42 to flash or light. Furthermore, even if there is variation in the amount of detergent 300 replenished at this time, as long as the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 is greater than 100 cc after the replenishment of detergent 300, second reed switch 19 will be in the OFF state. For this reason, control unit C1 will not cause notification lamp 42 to flash or light.

[0107] Thus, in this dishwasher 1, after control unit C1 detects that second reed switch 19 is in the ON state, when notification lamp 42 flashes or lights up to notify the user that detergent 300 is needed, the amount of detergent 300 remaining in storage chamber 150 is actually less than 100 cc. Specifically, in this dishwasher 1, when notification lamp 42 flashes, the amount of detergent 300 remaining in storage chamber 150 is 70 cc or less, and when notification lamp 42 is lit, the amount of detergent 300 remaining in storage chamber 150 is 20 cc.

[0108] Therefore, the dishwasher 1 of the first embodiment can detect the remaining amount of detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 with high accuracy, and can also accurately notify the user by means of the notification lamp 42 that the detergent needs to be replenished.

[0109] In particular, in this dishwasher 1, after the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 reaches 100 cc, notification lamp 42 flashes when detergent 300 has been supplied to washing space 7h three or more times, and lights up when detergent 300 has been supplied to washing space 7h eight times. In this way, by switching notification lamp 42 between flashing and lighting, this dishwasher 1 can appropriately notify the user when replenishment is required.

[0110] Furthermore, in this dishwasher 1, even when a replenishment notification is issued by lighting notification lamp 42, 20 cc of detergent 300 remains in storage chamber 150. Therefore, in dishwasher 1, supply device 13 operates when detergent 300 is not stored in storage chamber 150, and air is prevented from entering first supply pump 131 and connecting passage 13c.

[0111] Furthermore, in this dishwasher 1, after the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 reaches 100 cc, if the number of times detergent 300 has been supplied to the washing space 7h reaches eight, the control unit C1 stops the automatic detergent supply mode. As a result, detergent 300 is no longer automatically supplied to the washing space 7h. In this respect, too, the dishwasher 1 prevents air from entering the first supply pump 131 and the connecting passage 13c.

[0112] Example 2 8, in the dishwasher 1 of Example 2, similarly to the dishwasher 1 of Example 1, when the control unit C1 determines that the second reed switch 19 is not in the ON state (step S201: NO), the control unit C1 resets the number of wash operations and the number of supplies counted by the counter C10 to zero (step S201).Then, the control unit C1 stores this zero value (step S203).

[0113] In this dishwasher 1, the notification lamp 42 is capable of issuing a first preliminary notification in addition to the replenishment notification. In this dishwasher 1, when the control unit C1 determines that the second reed switch 19 is in the ON state (step S201: YES), that is, when the control unit C1 detects that the second reed switch 19 is in the ON state, the control unit C1 causes the notification lamp 42 to start issuing the first preliminary notification before the replenishment notification. Specifically, when the control unit C1 determines that the second reed switch 19 is in the ON state, the control unit C1 causes the notification lamp 42 to flash (step S221). After flashing the notification lamp 42 in this manner, the control unit C1 compares the number of wash operations and the number of supplies currently counted by the counter C10 (step S204).

[0114] If the number of flushing operations and the number of supplies checked in step S204 have not reached eight (step S205: NO), the control unit C1 stores the number of flushing operations and the number of supplies currently counted by the counter C10 (step S222). Thus, the control unit C1 ends the check mode. That is, in this case, the flashing of the notification lamp 42, which started in step S221, continues, and the first preliminary notification continues.

[0115] On the other hand, if the number of wash operations and the number of supplies checked in step S204 are eight (step S205: YES), control unit C1 turns on notification lamp 42 (step S210). Thus, in this dishwasher 1, a replenishment notification is issued instead of the first preliminary notification. Note that the other configurations of the dishwasher of Example 2, including the processing from step S210 onwards, are the same as those of dishwasher 1 of Example 1, and the same components are assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed description of the configurations will be omitted.

[0116] In this way, in the dishwasher 1 of Example 2, when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 reaches the first predetermined amount, 100 cc, the notification lamp 42 flashes and a first preliminary notification is issued to the user. This first preliminary notification is issued before the replenishment notification. In this way, in this dishwasher 1, the first preliminary notification can warn the user that replenishment of detergent 300 will be necessary in the near future, and call their attention.

[0117] Unlike the dishwasher 1 of Example 1, this dishwasher 1 does not notify the user of a replenishment notification until the number of wash operations and dispenses checked by control unit C1 in step S204 reaches eight. However, as described above, the first preliminary notification is issued before the replenishment notification is issued, allowing the user to conveniently prepare detergent 300 between the first preliminary notification and the replenishment notification. As a result, this dishwasher 1 is highly convenient. Other operations of this dishwasher 1 are the same as those of the dishwasher of Example 1.

[0118] Example 3 As shown in Figure 9, in the dishwasher 1 of Example 3, the device body 13a of the supply device 13 has a second supply pump 132. This second supply pump 132 is capable of supplying 1 cc of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h by rotating for 1 second. In addition, in this dishwasher 1, the counter C10 counts only the number of washing operations. The amount of detergent 300 supplied per second by the second supply pump 132 can be designed as appropriate.

[0119] In this dishwasher 1, the supply device 13 supplies 10 cc of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h per wash operation, which is the "specific amount" of the present invention. As described above, the second supply pump 132 is capable of supplying 1 cc of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h by rotating for 1 second. Therefore, the first supply pump 131 rotates for 10 seconds per wash operation to supply 10 cc of detergent 300 to the washing space 7h. In other words, when the counter C10 counts one wash operation, the supply time of the supply device 13 is 10 seconds. The value of the specific amount can be set appropriately depending on, for example, the properties and concentration of the detergent 300. The value of the specific amount may be different from the value of the predetermined amount in the dishwasher 1 of Examples 1 and 2. Furthermore, the counter C10 may count the supply time.

[0120] In this dishwasher 1, a supply time of 100 seconds is set as the first predetermined time. A supply time of 30 seconds is set as the second predetermined time, and a supply time of 80 seconds is set as the third predetermined time. The control unit C1 stores these first, second, and third predetermined times. Here, in this dishwasher 1, when the amount of detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 is at its maximum, the supply time is the longest, and is longer than 100 seconds. Note that the first predetermined time can be set as appropriate, provided that it is shorter than the longest supply time. In addition, the second predetermined time can be set as appropriate, provided that it is shorter than the first predetermined time, and the third predetermined time can be set as appropriate, provided that it is longer than the second predetermined time but shorter than the first predetermined time.

[0121] In this dishwasher 1, when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 reaches the first specific amount, second reed switch 19 is turned ON. In this way, second reed switch 19 detects that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 is the first specific amount. Furthermore, control unit C1 detects that second reed switch 19 is in the ON state. Here, the first specific amount is the amount of detergent 300 when the above-mentioned supply time reaches the first predetermined time. Specifically, in dishwasher 1 of Example 3, the first specific amount is set to 100 cc. Note that the first specific amount can be set appropriately depending on the first predetermined time.

[0122] Furthermore, second reed switch 19 is in the OFF state when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 is greater than the first specific amount, including when the remaining amount of detergent 300 is at its maximum. This allows control unit C1 to detect that second reed switch 19 is in the OFF state. Furthermore, if second reed switch 19 has once been in the ON state and the remaining amount of detergent 300 becomes greater than the first specific amount, second reed switch 19 also becomes in the OFF state. In this case, control unit C1 also detects that second reed switch 19 is in the OFF state. Other configurations of dishwasher 1 of Example 3 are the same as those of dishwasher 1 of Example 1.

[0123] This dishwasher 1 can also perform washing, rinsing, and drying operations, similar to the dishwasher 1 of Example 1. During washing operation, steps S101 to S111 shown in Fig. 6 are performed. Therefore, if the automatic detergent supply mode is being executed, the control unit C1 executes the check mode.

[0124] In this dishwasher 1, if the control unit C1 does not determine that the second reed switch 19 is ON (step S301: NO in FIG. 10), the control unit C1 resets the number of wash operations counted by the counter C10 to zero (step S302) and stores this value of zero (step S303). In this way, the control unit C1 ends the check mode.

[0125] On the other hand, if control unit C1 determines that second reed switch 19 is in the ON state (step S301: YES), control unit C1 calculates the cumulative supply time after second reed switch 19 is turned ON based on the number of washing operations counted by counter C10 (step S304). That is, control unit C1 calculates the cumulative supply time of detergent 300 by supply device 13 after second reed switch 19 detects that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 is the first specific amount.

[0126] Specifically, if the counter C10 counts one cleaning operation after the second reed switch 19 is turned on, the cumulative supply time is 10 seconds, and if the counter C10 counts two cleaning operations, the cumulative supply time is 20 seconds. Then, the control unit C1 stores the calculated cumulative supply time (step S305).

[0127] If the calculated cumulative supply time has not reached the third predetermined time or the second predetermined time (step S306: NO, step S307: NO), that is, if the calculated cumulative supply time is less than 30 seconds, the control unit C1 stores the number of cleaning operations currently counted by the counter C10 (step S308), and then the control unit C1 ends the check mode.

[0128] On the other hand, if the cumulative supply time calculated in step S304 has not reached the third predetermined time but has reached the second predetermined time (step S306: NO, step S307: YES), that is, if the calculated cumulative supply time has reached 30 seconds, controller C1 causes notification lamp 42 to flash (step S309). Thus, this dishwasher 1 also issues a replenishment notification using notification lamp 42. Controller C1 also stores the number of wash operations currently counted by counter C10 (step S310). Controller C1 then ends the check mode.

[0129] Furthermore, if the cumulative supply time calculated in step S304 reaches the third predetermined time (step S306: YES), that is, if the calculated cumulative supply time reaches 80 seconds, controller C1 turns on notification lamp 42 (step S311). Thus, in this dishwasher 1 as well, notification lamp 42 issues a replenishment notification, notifying the user that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in storage chamber 150 is lower than when the lamp was flashing, and requesting that detergent 300 be replenished promptly.

[0130] Furthermore, in this case, similar to the dishwasher 1 of Example 1, the control unit C1 stops the automatic detergent supply mode (step S312). As a result, the automatic supply of detergent 300 by the supply device 13 also stops in this dishwasher 1. The control unit C1 also stores the number of wash operations at this time (step S313). Then, the control unit C1 ends the check mode.

[0131] Thus, the dishwasher 1 of Example 3 can achieve the same effects as the dishwasher 1 of Example 1. Furthermore, in the dishwasher 1 of Example 3, even when the cumulative supply time reaches the third predetermined time of 80 seconds and the notification lamp 42 lights up to notify the need for replenishment, 20 cc of detergent 300 remains in the storage chamber 150. Therefore, this dishwasher 1 can also prevent air from entering the second supply pump 132, the supply passage 13b, and the connecting passage 13c.

[0132] Example 4 As shown in FIG. 11, in the dishwasher 1 of Example 4, similar to the dishwasher 1 of Example 3, when the control unit C1 determines that the second reed switch 19 is not in the ON state (step S301: NO), the control unit C1 corrects the number of washing operations counted by the counter C10 to zero (step S302) and stores this zero value (step S303).

[0133] In this dishwasher 1, the notification lamp 42 is capable of issuing a second preliminary notification in addition to the replenishment notification. In this dishwasher 1, when the control unit C1 determines that the second reed switch 19 is in the ON state (step S301: YES), the control unit C1 causes the notification lamp 42 to start issuing the second preliminary notification before issuing the replenishment notification. Specifically, when the control unit C1 determines that the second reed switch 19 is in the ON state, the control unit C1 causes the notification lamp 42 to flash (step S321). After flashing the notification lamp 42 in this manner, the control unit C1 calculates the cumulative supply time since the second reed switch 19 turned ON (step S304) and stores the calculated cumulative supply time (step S305).

[0134] If the calculated cumulative supply time has not reached the third predetermined time (step S306: NO), the control unit C1 stores the number of flushing operations currently counted by the counter C10 (step S322). The control unit C1 then terminates the check mode. Therefore, in this case, the flashing of the notification lamp 42, which started in step S321, continues, and the second preliminary notification continues.

[0135] On the other hand, if the cumulative supply time calculated in step S304 has reached the third predetermined time (step S306: YES), control unit C1 turns on notification lamp 42 (step S311). Thus, in this dishwasher 1, a replenishment notification is issued instead of the second preliminary notification. Note that other configurations of the dishwasher of Example 4, including the processing from step S311 onwards, are the same as those of dishwasher 1 of Example 3.

[0136] Thus, in the dishwasher 1 of Example 4, when the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 reaches the first specific amount, the notification lamp 42 flashes and a second preliminary notification is issued to the user. Here, this second preliminary notification is issued before the replenishment notification. Therefore, like the dishwasher 1 of Example 2, this dishwasher 1 can also notify the user that replenishment of detergent 300 will be necessary in the near future, so that when the replenishment notification is issued thereafter, the user can appropriately replenish detergent 300. Other operations of this dishwasher 1 are the same as those of the dishwasher 1 of Example 3.

[0137] Example 5 As shown in Figure 12, in the dishwasher 1 of Example 5, a remaining amount detection unit 22 is provided in the storage tank 15. This remaining amount detection unit 22 is composed of a float 17, a first detection sensor 24a, and a second detection sensor 24b. The first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b are also examples of the "detection sensor" according to the present invention.

[0138] The first detection sensor 24a is provided on the bottom wall 15a. Meanwhile, the second detection sensor 24b is provided on the first peripheral wall 15c. Both the first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b are located outside the storage chamber 150. The first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b are connected to the control unit C1. The first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b are capable of detecting the magnetic field of the magnet 170 of the float 17. The first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b detect the position of the float main body 17a in the storage chamber 150 by comparing the magnetic field of the magnet 170 detected by the first detection sensor 24a with the magnetic field of the magnet 170 detected by the second detection sensor 24b, and detect the remaining amount of detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 based on the position of the float 17.

[0139] Specifically, when the magnetic field of the magnet 170 detected by the first detection sensor 24a is weak and the magnetic field of the magnet 170 detected by the second detection sensor 24b is strong, the first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b detect that the float body 17a is swinging upward in the storage chamber 150 and detect the remaining amount of detergent 300 at the position of this float body 17a. In other words, when the magnetic field of the magnet 170 detected by the first detection sensor 24a is minimum and the magnetic field of the magnet 170 detected by the second detection sensor 24b is maximum, the first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b detect that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is maximum. In this case, the LCD panel 41 or the notification lamp 42 may be used to notify the user that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is maximum.

[0140] Conversely, when the magnetism of the magnet 170 detected by the first detection sensor 24a is strong and the magnetism of the magnet 170 detected by the second detection sensor 24b is weak, the first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b detect that the float body 17a is swinging downward within the storage chamber 150 and detect the remaining amount of detergent 300 at the position of this float body 17a. Therefore, in this case, the first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b detect that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is less than the maximum.

[0141] In this way, when the first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b detect that the float body 17a is in the position shown in FIG. 12 based on the magnetism of the magnet 170 they detect, they detect that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is a first predetermined amount. As a result, the first detection sensor 24a transmits a detection signal to the control unit C1. On the other hand, if detergent 300 is replenished after the first detection sensor 24a transmits the detection signal to the control unit C1 and the remaining amount of detergent 300 becomes greater than the first predetermined amount, the first detection sensor 24a transmits a cancellation signal to the control unit C1 to cancel the previously transmitted detection signal. As a result, the control unit C1, which has received the cancellation signal, enters a state in which the detection signal has not been received. The positions of the first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b provided in the storage tank 15 can be designed as appropriate. Alternatively, the second detection sensor 24b may transmit the detection signal and cancellation signal to the control unit C1 instead of the first detection sensor 24a.

[0142] Alternatively, the float 17 and the first detection sensor 24a may constitute a remaining amount detection unit 22, and the position of the float body 17a, and therefore the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150, may be detected based on the magnetism of the magnet 170 detected by the first detection sensor 24a. The other configurations of this dishwasher 1 are the same as those of the dishwasher of the first embodiment.

[0143] In the dishwasher 1 of Example 5, upon receiving a detection signal from the first detection sensor 24a, the control unit C1 determines in check mode that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is a first predetermined amount. After determining that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is the first predetermined amount, the control unit C1 performs the processes of steps S204 to S212 shown in FIG. 7, similar to the dishwasher 1 of Example 1, thereby enabling the control unit C1 to issue a replenishment notification using the notification lamp 42. On the other hand, if the control unit C1 has not received a detection signal from the first detection sensor 24a, it determines that the remaining amount of detergent 300 in the storage chamber 150 is greater than the first predetermined amount. Therefore, in check mode, the control unit C1 performs the processes of steps S202 and S203 shown in FIG. 7. In this way, this dishwasher 1 can also achieve the same functions as the dishwasher 1 of Example 1.

[0144] The present invention has been described above in accordance with Examples 1 to 5, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above Examples 1 to 5, and can be modified and applied as appropriate within the scope of the invention.

[0145] For example, in the dishwasher 1 of Examples 1 to 5, the notification lamp 42 is used as the "notification unit" of the present invention. However, this is not a limitation, and a buzzer that issues the replenishment notification, first preliminary notification, and second preliminary notification by voice may also be used as the "notification unit." Furthermore, the liquid crystal panel 41 may be used as the "notification unit," and the replenishment notification, first preliminary notification, and second preliminary notification may be issued by characters or the like displayed on the liquid crystal panel 41. Furthermore, the "notification unit" of the present invention may be configured by combining the notification lamp 42, the liquid crystal panel 41, the buzzer, etc.

[0146] Furthermore, in the dishwasher 1 of the first embodiment, the counter C10 may count the number of revolutions of the first supply pump 131 when supplying the detergent 300 to the washing space 7h as the number of supplies. The same applies to the dishwasher 1 of the second and fifth embodiments.

[0147] Furthermore, the dishwasher 1 of Example 1 may be configured to provide a first preliminary alert by the alert lamp 42, and the dishwasher 1 of Example 3 may be configured to provide a second preliminary alert by the alert lamp 42. In these cases, the flashing of the alert lamp 42 for the first and second preliminary alerts may be differentiated from the flashing for the replenishment alert, or the color of the alert lamp 42 illuminated for the first and second preliminary alerts may be differentiated from the color of the alert lamp 42 illuminated for the replenishment alert.

[0148] Furthermore, in the dishwasher 1 of the fifth embodiment, the first detection sensor 24a and the second detection sensor 24b may detect that the remaining amount of detergent 300 stored in the storage chamber 150 is a first specific amount.

[0149] Moreover, instead of the detergent 300, a rinse for dishes or the like may be used as the "treatment agent" in the present invention.

[0150] Furthermore, the treatment agents, including the detergent 300, are not limited to liquid forms, but may be in powder or tablet form.

[0151] Furthermore, instead of the dishwasher 1, a washing machine or a washer-dryer capable of washing clothes or the like as items to be washed may be used as the "washing device" in the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0152] The present invention can be used in dishwashers, washing machines, etc. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 1...Dishwasher (cleaning device) 7...Cleaning tank (cleaning section) 13...Supply device (supply section) 15...Storage tank (storage section) 16...Remaining amount detection unit 17...Float 18...First reed switch (detection sensor) 19...Second reed switch (detection sensor) 22...Remaining amount detection unit 24a...First detection sensor (detection sensor) 24b...Second detection sensor (detection sensor) 42...Alarm lamp (alarm section) 170...Magnet 300...Detergent (treatment agent) C1: Control section

Claims

1. A cleaning device that performs a cleaning operation to clean an object to be cleaned, a cleaning unit that accommodates and cleans the object to be cleaned; a storage section for storing a treatment agent to be used on the object to be cleaned; a supply unit that automatically supplies a predetermined amount of the treatment agent from the storage unit to the cleaning unit for each execution of the cleaning operation; a remaining amount detection unit provided in the storage unit and configured to detect the remaining amount of the treatment agent in the storage unit; a notification unit that can issue a replenishment notification to a user of the cleaning device requesting replenishment of the treatment agent and a first preliminary notification that is issued prior to the replenishment notification; a control unit connected to the cleaning unit, the supply unit, the remaining amount detection unit, and the notification unit, and controlling the cleaning operation and the supply unit and the notification unit; the number of times that the supply unit supplies the predetermined amount of the treatment agent to the cleaning unit is referred to as the supply number; the amount of the treatment agent when the number of times of supply is a first predetermined number of times that is less than the maximum number of times is set to a first predetermined amount; The number of times of supplying that is less than the first predetermined number of times is set to a second predetermined number of times, the number of times of supplying that is greater than the second predetermined number of times and less than the first predetermined number of times is set to a third predetermined number of times, the control unit stores the first predetermined number of times, the second predetermined number of times, and the third predetermined number of times, and also stores the number of times of supply; the amount of the treatment agent when the second predetermined number of times is smaller than the first predetermined amount, and the amount of the treatment agent when the third predetermined number of times is smaller than the amount of the treatment agent when the second predetermined number of times is The control unit causes the notification unit to execute the first preliminary notification when the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first predetermined amount, and after the notification unit executes the first preliminary notification, causes the notification unit to start the replenishment notification if the remaining amount is less than the first predetermined amount and the number of supplies reaches the third predetermined number.

2. A cleaning device as described in Claim 1, wherein the amount of the processing agent at the third predetermined number of times is greater than the amount of the processing agent supplied to the cleaning section for one execution of the cleaning operation.

3. A cleaning device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit stops operation of the supply unit after the alarm unit executes the first preliminary alarm when the remaining amount becomes less than the first predetermined amount and the number of supplies reaches the third predetermined number.

4. A cleaning device that performs a cleaning operation to clean an object to be cleaned, a cleaning unit that accommodates and cleans the object to be cleaned; a storage section for storing a treatment agent to be used on the object to be cleaned; a supply unit that automatically supplies a specific amount of the treatment agent stored in the storage unit to the cleaning unit for a predetermined time period for one cleaning operation; a remaining amount detection unit provided in the storage unit and configured to detect the remaining amount of the treatment agent in the storage unit; a notification unit that can issue a replenishment notification to a user of the cleaning device requesting replenishment of the treatment agent and a second preliminary notification that is issued prior to the replenishment notification; a control unit connected to the cleaning unit, the supply unit, the remaining amount detection unit, and the notification unit, and controlling the cleaning operation and the supply unit and the notification unit; a time during which the supply unit supplies the specific amount of the treatment agent to the cleaning unit is defined as a supply time; the amount of the treatment agent when the supply time reaches a first predetermined time that is shorter than the longest time is set to a first specific amount; The supply time shorter than the first predetermined time is set to a second predetermined time, the supply time that is longer than the second predetermined time and shorter than the first predetermined time is a third predetermined time, the control unit stores the first predetermined time, the second predetermined time, and the third predetermined time, and also stores an integrated supply time obtained by integrating the supply time after the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first specific amount, the amount of the treatment agent at the second predetermined time is less than the first specific amount, and the amount of the treatment agent at the third predetermined time is less than the amount of the treatment agent at the second predetermined time; The control unit causes the notification unit to execute the second preliminary notification when the remaining amount detection unit detects that the remaining amount has reached the first specific amount, and after the notification unit executes the second preliminary notification, causes the notification unit to start the replenishment notification if the remaining amount is less than the first specific amount and the accumulated supply time reaches the third predetermined time.

5. A cleaning device as described in Claim 4, wherein the amount of the processing agent at the third predetermined time is greater than the amount of the processing agent supplied to the cleaning section for one execution of the cleaning operation.

6. A cleaning device as described in claim 4 or 5, wherein the control unit stops operation of the supply unit after the alarm unit executes the second preliminary alarm when the remaining amount becomes less than the first specific amount and the accumulated supply time reaches the third specified time.

7. The treatment agent is liquid, The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the remaining amount detection unit includes a float provided with a magnet and displaceable within the storage unit, and a detection sensor capable of detecting the position of the float within the storage unit using the magnetism of the magnet.

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