dishwasher

Abstract

To provide a tableware washer that has an automatic detergent charging function, can easily charge a detergent into a detergent tank, and has good usability.SOLUTION: A tableware washer comprises: a case; a washing tank provided in the case, and for housing an object to be washed; and a detergent tank for storing a liquid detergent to be supplied to the washing tank. The detergent tank comprises a detergent charging port for charging the liquid detergent into the detergent tank. In the detergent tank, a floating body floating in the liquid detergent is provided via an arm. The arm is pivotally supported in the detergent tank by a rotating shaft. The detergent charging port is provided at a position displaced from a position directly above a range where the arm is rotated.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a dishwasher.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a dishwasher that suppresses solidification of detergent. This dishwasher includes a washing tank having an opening at the upper part for accommodating tableware, a housing that supports the washing tank so as to be movable back and forth in the front-rear direction, a detergent tank provided in front of the outside of the washing tank for storing liquid detergent, and a detergent discharge path that communicates the detergent tank and the washing tank. The detergent tank is configured to be movable back and forth in the left-right direction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides a user-friendly dishwasher having a detergent automatic input function and capable of easily inputting detergent into a detergent tank.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The dishwasher in the present disclosure includes a housing, a washing tank provided in the housing for accommodating an object to be washed, and a detergent tank for storing liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank. A detergent tank storage compartment in which the detergent tank can be easily inserted and removed, and is provided with a detergent input port for inputting liquid detergent into the detergent tank into the detergent tank, On the top and has A removable detergent dispenser lid is provided to cover the detergent dispenser opening, and a stepped portion is provided on the top surface of the detergent tank storage compartment. When the detergent tank is inserted into the detergent tank storage compartment, the detergent dispenser lid is inserted while contacting the stepped portion. a dishwasher.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] The dishwasher in this disclosure is equipped with an automatic detergent dispensing function, and each component within the detergent tank is positioned in a convenient location. Therefore, detergent can be easily added to the detergent tank. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Schematic side view of the dishwasher in Embodiment 1 with the washing tank pulled out from the housing. [Figure 2] Schematic front view of a dishwasher showing the detergent tank in its retracted position. [Figure 3] Schematic front view of a dishwasher showing the detergent tank in the process of being retracted or pulled out. [Figure 4] Schematic front view of a dishwasher with the detergent tank retracted. [Figure 5] Schematic front view of a detergent tank with no detergent solution stored inside and the detergent dispenser closed. [Figure 6] Schematic front view of a detergent tank with detergent solution stored inside and the detergent dispenser open. [Figure 7] Schematic perspective view of the detergent storage area and detergent tank when the detergent tank is stored. [Figure 8] Schematic front view of the detergent storage compartment and detergent tank when the detergent tank is stored. [Figure 9] Schematic front view of the detergent storage compartment and detergent tank in the process of being stored or pulled out. [Figure 10] Schematic front view of detergent tanks and check valves in the process of being stored or pulled out. [Figure 11] Schematic front view of the detergent tank before the tank-side check valve is installed. [Figure 12] Schematic front view of a detergent tank with a check valve installed on the tank side. [Figure 13] Schematic perspective view of the detergent storage area and detergent tank just before the detergent tank is stored inside. [Figure 14] Schematic perspective view of the detergent storage section and detergent tank during the detergent tank installation process. [Figure 15] Enlarged perspective view of the area near the check valve on the tank side during the installation of the detergent tank. [Figure 16] Schematic front view of the detergent tank and tray in Embodiment 2 [Figure 17] Schematic perspective view of the detergent tank and tray in Embodiment 2 [Figure 18] Side sectional view near the check valve during (initial) attachment of the check valve [Figure 19] Side sectional view near the check valve during (mid - term) attachment of the check valve [Figure 20] Side sectional view near the check valve during (final) attachment of the check valve

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] (Findings, etc. on which the present disclosure is based) When the inventors arrived at the present disclosure, in the configuration of the conventional detergent tank, the positional relationship regarding the detergent inlet and other components was not considered.

[0009] Therefore, the inventors introduced a float detection configuration to enable the user to easily pour detergent into the detergent tank and further improve the performance of the detergent tank itself. However, the inventors discovered the problem that the positional relationship of the float also needs to be considered, and in order to solve this problem, they arrived at the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0010] Therefore, the present disclosure provides a dishwasher in which each component in the detergent tank is provided at a convenient position, enabling easy pouring of detergent into the detergent tank.

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, detailed descriptions that are not necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well - known matters or duplicate descriptions of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid making the following description overly redundant and to facilitate the understanding of those skilled in the art. <>

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

[0013] (Embodiment 1) Embodiment 1 will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 20.

[0014] [Overall structure] This is a schematic side view of the dishwasher in the state where the washing tank 1 in Embodiment 1 is pulled out from the housing 2. More specifically, Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of the dishwasher in the state where the washing tank 1 of the dishwasher is pulled out from the housing 2 of the dishwasher.

[0015] Furthermore, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 is a built-in type dishwasher that is installed in, for example, a system kitchen.

[0016] In Embodiment 1, as shown in the figure, the forward direction is the direction in which the door 3 and washing tank 1 are pulled out, and the rear direction is the direction in which the washing tank 1 is stored and the door 3 is closed. Furthermore, the opening side of the washing tank 1 of the dishwasher will be considered upward, the opposite side downward, and the right side of the door 3, viewed from the front, will be considered right, and the left side will be considered left.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 includes a housing 2, a washing tank 1, side walls 12, a detergent tank 15, a control device 19, and a door 3 that opens and closes the opening of the housing 2, etc., all of which are located inside the housing 2.

[0018] The washing tank 1 has an opening 1a at the top, and a basket 7 for holding tableware 8 is placed inside. The washing tank 1 is equipped with a first rail 5 fixed to the bottom. On the other hand, the housing 2 is equipped with a second rail 6 fixed to the inside surface. The first rail 5 is movably supported by the second rail 6 of the housing 2. As a result, the washing tank 1 is supported so that it can be moved in and out of the housing 2 in the front-to-back direction (left-to-right direction on the plane of the paper in Figure 1).

[0019] The dishwasher has a flat section 23 located in front of the opening 1a, which is the upper front outer part of the washing tub 1. An operation unit 24 and a display unit 25 are arranged on the flat section 23. The operation unit 24 allows the user to set the dishwasher's washing course, power on, and off. The display unit 25 displays the washing status, operating status, time, etc. An operation display board (not shown) that controls the operation of the operation unit 24 and display unit 25 is located on the back side of the flat section 23.

[0020] The side walls 12 are positioned on both sides between the washing tank 1 and the door body 3. The side walls 12 connect the washing tank 1 and the door body 3 so that they can move integrally. At this time, the dishwasher has a front space 13 that is formed by partitioning the front side of the washing tank 1, the rear side of the door body 3, the side walls 12 and the flat surface 23.

[0021] The door body 3 is equipped with a handle 4 that is positioned at the top and protrudes forward. The handle 4 is used by the user to grasp and insert or remove the washing tank 1 from the housing 2.

[0022] Furthermore, in the dishwasher of Embodiment 1, washing water for washing dishes in the washing tank 1 is supplied via the following route. Specifically, first, washing water such as tap water is supplied from a branch faucet on a system kitchen (not shown) to a water supply route such as a water supply hose. The supplied washing water then passes through the water supply route and is supplied to the washing tank 1 to the required water level and amount by a water supply pump and water supply valve (not shown). The washing tank 1 is supplied with water via the route configured as described above.

[0023] A circulation pump 9 is positioned on the lower outside of the washing tank 1. The circulation pump 9 circulates the washing water supplied to the washing tank 1 through a circulation path and sprays the washing water from the washing nozzle 11. The system is configured to allow the washing of dishes 8 with the sprayed washing water. A heater 10 for heating the washing water is also positioned near the bottom of the washing tank 1.

[0024] Furthermore, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 is equipped with a drainage path for draining the washing water from the washing tank 1. The drainage path consists of a drain pump and a drain hose (not shown). When the washing and rinsing of the dishes 8 is finished, the drain pump is activated, and the washing water is drained to the outside via the drain hose. In other words, the drainage path is configured to allow the washing water in the washing tank 1 to be drained into a kitchen sink or the like.

[0025] A detergent tank storage section 14 is located in the front space 13, which is the outer front of the washing tank 1, and in which the detergent tank 15 is swivelably housed. The detergent tank storage section 14 is formed by welding, screwing, or integrally molding with the side wall 12 to one side of the side wall 12. Alternatively, the detergent tank storage section 14 may be provided on the front of the washing tank 1.

[0026] As described above, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 is configured as described.

[0027] [Configuration around the detergent tank] Next, the configuration around the dishwasher's detergent tank 15 will be explained with reference to Figures 2 to 5.

[0028] Figure 2 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the detergent tank 15 in the retracted position. Figure 3 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the detergent tank 15 in the partially retracted or partially pulled out position. Figure 4 is a schematic front view of the dishwasher showing the detergent tank 15 in the retracted position indicated by a dashed line.

[0029] As shown in Figure 3, the detergent tank storage section 14 has a hollow space. This allows the detergent tank 15 to be easily moved in and out of the space in the detergent tank storage section 14. When viewed from the front (the front side of the door body 3), the detergent tank 15 can be easily moved in and out, for example, in the left-right direction (to the side).

[0030] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 and 4, the detergent tank storage section 14 is located approximately below (including below) the flat section 23 (operation section 24 or display section 25), for example, on the right side from the central part of the washing tank 1, and houses the detergent tank 15.

[0031] Note that while Figures 2 and 3 illustrate an example configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out to the right from the detergent tank storage section 14, the system is not limited to this configuration. For example, the detergent tank storage section 14 and the detergent tank 15 may be arranged in opposite positions, symmetrically to those in Figures 2 and 3. In this case, a configuration in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out to the left from the detergent tank storage section 14 is preferable.

[0032] With the above configuration, the detergent tank 15 is not conspicuous when the washing tub 1 is completely housed in the casing 2. Therefore, the dishwasher can be designed with a simple design. Furthermore, the space (front space 13) for housing the detergent tank 15 on the outside front of the washing tub 1 can be effectively utilized.

[0033] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the detergent tank 15 is configured to be freely inserted and removed from the detergent tank storage section 14 in the left-right direction when the washing tank 1 is pulled out forward by at least a distance a (dotted arrow in Figure 1). Distance a represents the shortest distance between the mating surface between the back of the door body 3 and the frontmost part of the housing 2 and the washing tank 1 side surface of the detergent tank storage section 14. In other words, distance a represents the state in which at least the entire detergent tank storage section 14 is pulled out forward from the frontmost part of the housing 2.

[0034] With the above configuration, the detergent tank 15 can only be inserted into or removed when the washing tank 1 is pulled out forward by a predetermined distance (distance a) or more. Therefore, the user can easily insert and remove the detergent tank 15 by utilizing the space in front of the washing tank 1 that houses the detergent tank 15 and the lateral space when the washing tank 1 is pulled out from the housing 2. Note that distance a is not particularly limited as long as it is the distance that the detergent tank 15 can be inserted into or removed in the left-right direction.

[0035] Furthermore, as described above, the dishwasher of Embodiment 1 has an operating unit 24 located on the upper front outside of the washing tub 1, which allows the user to set the washing course, turn the power on and off, etc. This allows the user to operate the operating unit 24 with one hand, for example, from the front and above the washing tub 1. At the same time, the user can insert and remove the detergent tank 15 in the left and right directions with the other hand. As a result, the user's work efficiency can be improved.

[0036] Next, we will explain the components that make up the detergent tank 15 using Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 shows the detergent tank when the detergent dispenser lid 154 is closed and no detergent is stored inside. Figure 6 is a schematic front view of unit 15. Figure 6 is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 15 when the detergent dispenser lid 154 is open and the detergent is filled to approximately full capacity.

[0037] In the following description of the area near the detergent tank, as shown in Figure 5, the direction in which the detergent tank 15 is pulled out (depth direction) will be described as the front side and the direction in which it is inserted will be described as the back side. Also, the opening side of the detergent tank 15 will be described as the top and the opposite side as the bottom.

[0038] When the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, the claws 158 engage with the claw receiving portions provided on the side of the detergent tank storage section 14, and the detergent tank 15 is stably supported within the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0039] Furthermore, the detergent tank 15 is composed of a container, such as a bottle, that can store liquid detergent. The top of the detergent tank 15 is open, and the opening is completely covered by the cover 31. Specifically, the detergent tank 15 consists of a detergent outlet 152, a detergent inlet 153 on the cover 31, a detergent container lid 154, and so on.

[0040] A dispensing assist slope 156 may be provided so as to be inclined from the detergent dispenser opening 153 toward the inside of the detergent tank 15. As the dispensed liquid detergent flows along the dispensing assist slope, it is possible to suppress the liquid detergent from falling to random locations in the detergent tank 15 and splashing. Also, because the liquid detergent can be dispensed along the slope, stable dispensing is possible even if the user's dispensing speed varies. Furthermore, because the liquid detergent is dispensed using the dispensing assist slope 156, liquid detergent is less likely to adhere to the area around the detergent dispenser lid 154, allowing the detergent dispenser lid 154 to be kept clean for a relatively long period of time, improving user convenience.

[0041] Additionally, the pouring guideline 156 may display a guideline for the amount of liquid detergent to use. For example, it can be used as a full-tank indicator to show that the detergent level is full when the detergent is poured up to the line indicated on the pouring guideline 156, or as a warning to show that too much detergent is being used when the detergent is poured up to the indicated line.

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

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

[0044] When refilling the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent, the user first removes the detergent tank 15 from the detergent tank storage section 14. Then, the user opens the detergent dispenser lid 154. The user can then easily refill the detergent tank 15 by pouring liquid detergent from the detergent inlet 153 along the pouring assist slope 156. With the configuration of the detergent tank 15 described above, liquid detergent can be supplied and stored in the detergent tank 15 outside the washing tank 1. Therefore, solidification of the detergent in the detergent tank 15 due to humidity and dryness inside the washing tank 1 during washing can be suppressed.

[0045] The top surface of the detergent tank storage section 14 has a top projection 37 on the front side in the depth direction and a stepped section 38 on the back side. The top projection 37 serves to restrict the detergent tank 15 from rattling up and down when it is stored inside. The stepped section 38 is configured to be just high enough for the detergent tank to pass through, so the detergent dispenser lid 154 comes into contact with this step and moves downward. By being pressed against it, the detergent dispenser lid 154, which is not fully closed, can be completely closed.

[0046] Furthermore, if the user accidentally inserts the detergent tank 15 with the detergent dispenser lid 154 open (see Figure 6), the detergent dispenser lid 154 will first come into contact with the front end of the detergent tank storage section 14 and rotate approximately 180°. However, at this time, the detergent dispenser lid 154 is not yet fully closed and begins to be inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14 in a half-open state, as shown in Figure 9. When the detergent dispenser lid 154, in this half-open state, passes the top projection 37, the detergent dispenser lid 154 is pushed from above and the detergent dispenser lid 154 is completely closed (see Figure 9). Even if the height of the top projection 37 is insufficient and the detergent dispenser lid 154 does not close completely, the detergent dispenser lid 154 is configured to be completely closed when it passes the stepped section 38.

[0047] This configuration ensures that the lid can be securely closed even if the user forgets to close the detergent dispenser lid 154 or if it is not completely closed when they think they have. This prevents the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 from solidifying.

[0048] As shown in Figure 8, the detergent discharge port 152 of the detergent tank 15 is provided with a tank-side check valve 151 at the rear end of the bottom surface of the detergent tank. On the other hand, the detergent tank storage section 14 also has a main body-side check valve 141 at the rear end of the bottom surface. The main body-side check valve 141 of the detergent tank storage section 14 engages with the tank-side check valve 151. As these check valves engage, the storage of the detergent tank 15 into the detergent tank storage section 14 is completed.

[0049] When the main body check valve 141 and the tank check valve 151 engage, a path is formed for transferring liquid detergent from the detergent discharge port 152 to the detergent tank storage section 14. Furthermore, the engagement of the tank check valve 151 and the main body check valve 141 allows for more stable storage of the detergent tank 15 within the detergent tank storage section 14. When the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14, the tank check valve 151 of the detergent discharge port 152 is configured to connect with the main body check valve 141 located on the detergent tank storage section 14 side.

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

[0051] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the control device 19 is positioned below the front of the washing tank 1. The control device 19 controls the operation of, for example, the circulation pump 9, the drain pump, the water supply pump (water supply valve), and the detergent pump 16.

[0052] Specifically, the control device 19 controls the rotational speed and operating time of the detergent pump 16. This ensures that the required amount of liquid detergent is supplied from the detergent tank 15 when washing dishes 8, etc. At this time, the liquid detergent is supplied to the washing tank 1 via the tank-side check valve 151, the main unit-side check valve 141, the detergent pump 16, and so on, in that order. In other words, the system is configured to transfer and supply the liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 1.

[0053] As described above, the area around the detergent tank 15 of the dishwasher is configured, and liquid detergent is supplied into the washing tank 1.

[0054] [Detergent tank and float configuration] Next, the detailed configuration of the dishwasher's detergent tank 15 will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 9. Figures 2 and 8 show the detergent tank 15 in Embodiment 1. Figure 3 and Figure 9 are schematic cross-sectional views of the detergent tank 15 in the storage compartment 14 when it is stored. Figure 4 is a front view of the dishwasher in which the position of the detergent tank 15 in the first embodiment is projected onto the washing tank 1 by dashed lines.

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

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

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

[0058] A magnetic sensor for detecting the magnetism of a magnetic material is provided on the side of the detergent tank storage section 14. When the magnetic sensor detects the magnetism of the magnetic material, it is detected that the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14.

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

[0060] The float 30 is pivotally supported via an arm 33 on a pivot shaft 32 provided on a cover 31 that covers the opening of the detergent tank 15. As shown in Figure 5, when no liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, the float 30 and arm 33 hang vertically downward due to their own weight. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, as shown in Figure 6, the float 30 rises according to the liquid level of the detergent, and the arm 33 rotates upward around the pivot shaft 32. The liquid level of the detergent in the detergent tank 30 can be detected by detecting the position of the magnetic material with a magnetic sensor. Also, as shown in Figure 3, when the detergent tank 15 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 14, the magnetic sensor does not detect the magnetism of the magnetic material, so it is possible to detect that the detergent tank 15 is not stored in the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0061] The magnetic sensor may be, for example, a plurality of Hall elements placed near the positions of magnetic materials corresponding to multiple liquid levels of liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15. This allows for more accurate detection of the liquid level of the liquid detergent. The magnetic sensor may also be a sensor capable of detecting the magnetism of a magnetic material in any manner, such as a magnetoresistive element or a magnetoimpedance element.

[0062] The magnetic sensor may be installed on the side of the detergent tank storage section 14 that is furthest from the control device 19. This reduces the influence of the magnetic field generated in the electrical circuit of the control device 19, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the magnetic sensor.

[0063] A detergent outlet 152 is provided at the lowest end of the side of the detergent tank 15 on the far side in the direction of insertion and removal. A main body check valve 141 is provided at a position where the detergent outlet 152 of the detergent tank 15 contacts the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14. When the detergent pump 16 operates, the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 is supplied into the washing tank 1 via the detergent outlet 152, the main body check valve 141, and the detergent pump 16. The inner bottom surface of the detergent tank 15 is sloped downwards toward the detergent outlet 152.

[0064] Figure 8 is a schematic front view showing the detergent tank 15 stored in the detergent tank storage section 14. Figure 9 is a schematic front view showing the detergent tank 15 in the process of being stored in or pulled out of the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0065] Figure 8, a schematic front view, schematically shows a cross-section of the detergent tank 15. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, waves are generated in the liquid detergent when the washing tank 1 is pulled out from the housing 2 or when the detergent tank 15 is pulled out from the detergent tank storage section 14. In the dishwasher of this embodiment, a float 30 made of a material that floats in the liquid detergent is provided to cancel out these waves. Experiments by the inventors have shown that the float 30 floats on the surface of the liquid detergent and cancels out the waves, thereby suppressing the waves generated in the liquid detergent compared to when the float 30 is not provided. As a result, it is possible to prevent the liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 15 or adhering to and solidifying on surrounding components when using the dishwasher or when refilling the detergent tank 15 with liquid detergent.

[0066] The float 30 may be made of a thermoplastic resin, metal, or the like. If the float 30 is made of metal, a cavity may be provided inside so that the float 30 floats on the liquid detergent. The float 30 and the arm 33 may be formed integrally, or they may be formed separately and joined together. The arm 33 may be detachably pivoted on a pivot shaft 32 provided on the cover 31 of the detergent tank 15. In this case, the user can remove the arm 33 and float 30 from the cover 31 for washing. The arm 33 may be formed integrally with the cover 31 of the detergent tank 30.

[0067] The arm 33 is configured such that the float 30 rotates in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the washing tank 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2. The detergent dispenser 153 is located outside the position directly above the range of rotation of the arm 33. With the detergent dispenser 153 positioned in this way, the user can easily dispense detergent from the dispenser 153 without being obstructed by the float 30, regardless of the position of the float 30. In particular, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, when there is no liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15, the float 30 and arm 33 are suspended vertically downward by their own weight and are at their lowest point. When liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, the float 30 rises according to the liquid level of the detergent, and the arm 33 rotates upward around the pivot axis 32. At this time, for example, as shown in Figure 6, the float 30 rotates approximately 50° toward the user.

[0068] When using a highly viscous liquid detergent, the sliding resistance between the arm 33 and the float 30 increases. Therefore, if the detergent is introduced in a direction opposite to the direction in which the float 30 rotates, the float may have difficulty following the fluctuations in the liquid level. In addition, the float 30 and arm 33 may be subjected to increased load, and the float 30 may become immobile. In this embodiment, the direction in which the float 30 rotates is opposite to the front side, A detergent inlet 153 is provided at the back of the detergent tank 15. With this configuration, the direction of inflow of the added liquid detergent and the direction of rotation of the float 30 are not in opposition, and the sliding resistance on the float 30 does not increase even when liquid detergent is added from the detergent inlet 153. This prevents the float 30 from falsely detecting changes in the liquid level.

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

[0070] The pivot shaft 32 supporting the arm 33 is located near the center in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15. The arm 33 is also connected to the far end of the float 30, opposite to the front direction in which the float 30 rotates, in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15. Therefore, when the float 30 and arm 33 are hanging vertically downward due to their own weight, the float 30 is located towards the front of the center.

[0071] Figure 7 is a partially enlarged perspective view showing the detergent tank 15 stored in the detergent tank storage compartment 14. As shown in Figure 7, the cover 31 on the top surface of the detergent tank 15 may be provided with a message section 35 directed at the user. The message section 35 only needs to be in a position visible to the user on the cover 31, but it is more effective if it is displayed on the front side of the detergent tank 15, as the user will definitely see it when pulling out the detergent tank 15.

[0072] The content of the message section 35 may be a warning regarding the detergent tank 15, or it may be any other message directed at the user. The display method may be by attaching a sticker, or by printing or engraving the text on the cover 31 itself.

[0073] In this embodiment, the message unit 35 is located on the front side of the cover 31 on the top surface of the detergent tank 15, and the detergent dispenser 153 is located behind it. Therefore, the user can always see the message unit 35 when pulling out the detergent tank 15.

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

[0075] Therefore, when a user puts detergent into the detergent dispenser 153 located at the back of the detergent tank 15, they first pull the detergent tank 15 forward, check the message unit 35, and then open the detergent dispenser lid 154. Then they begin putting in the detergent. At this time, there is nothing obstructing the detergent dispenser 153, so the user can easily put in the detergent. After the detergent is put in, the float 30 rotates upward towards the front.

[0076] When detergent is dispensed, it does not come into contact with the float 30 and arm 33, thus not interfering with the dispensing process. Furthermore, it avoids increased sliding resistance between the float 30 and arm 33, and prevents the float 30 from having difficulty following fluctuations in the liquid level. As a result, false detections by the float 30 are less likely to occur, and malfunctions are less likely to be induced.

[0077] The float 30 and arm 33 are initially hanging vertically downward due to their own weight, and the float 30 rotates approximately 0-50° toward the front. At this time, a stopper rib 36 is provided on the back surface of the cover 31 of the detergent tank 15. As shown in Figure 6, when liquid detergent is stored in the detergent tank 15, the float 30 is in the position rotated upward and therefore does not come into contact with the stopper rib 36. As shown in Figure 5, when there is no liquid detergent stored in the detergent tank 15, the float 30 hangs vertically downward due to its own weight and remains stationary in contact with the stopper rib 36.

[0078] When inserting or removing the washing tank 1 into or out of the housing 2, or when inserting or removing the detergent tank 15 into or out of the detergent tank storage section 14, waves and vibrations are generated in the direction of insertion or removal. If the float 30 comes into contact with the stopper rib 36, the float 30 is blocked by the stopper rib 36 and cannot rotate beyond the stopper rib 36. Therefore, the influence of waves and vibrations on liquid level detection can be suppressed.

[0079] The stopper rib 36 is positioned between the arm 33 and the detergent dispenser 153, specifically on the opposite side of the arm 33 from the float 30 and in the opposite direction of the float 30's rotation. In this embodiment, since the detergent dispenser 153 is at the back and the float 30 rotates towards the front, the stopper rib 36 is located near the center of the detergent tank and further back than the arm 33.

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

[0081] The cover 31 of the detergent tank 15 may be provided with an atmospheric vent that communicates with the outside. Since the cover 31 is provided to cover the opening of the detergent tank 15 in an airtight and liquid-tight manner, when liquid detergent is discharged from the detergent tank 15, the inside of the detergent tank 15 may become negatively pressurized, which may prevent the liquid detergent from being discharged smoothly. By providing an atmospheric vent, outside air can be allowed to flow into the detergent tank 15 through the atmospheric vent when liquid detergent is discharged from the detergent tank 15, thereby preventing the inside of the detergent tank 15 from becoming negatively pressurized. This improves the reliability of the amount of liquid detergent supplied from the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 1.

[0082] If liquid detergent adheres to and solidifies at the air vent, the air vent can become blocked, reducing its ability to draw outside air into the detergent tank 15, and potentially preventing the supply of an appropriate amount of liquid detergent from the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 1. To solve this problem, in this embodiment of the dishwasher, the air vent is positioned above the range of movement of the float 30 on the cover 31. This ensures that even when the liquid detergent level in the detergent tank 15 is high and the liquid detergent is likely to splash onto the air vent, the float 30 rises to the liquid surface directly below the air vent, canceling out the splashes of liquid detergent and preventing it from reaching the air vent.

[0083] The protruding portion 34 shown in Figure 5, etc., is positioned so that when the float 30 is moving upward, at least a part of the float 30 or arm 33 approaches or contacts the protruding portion 34. When the liquid level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 is high, the float 30 rotates to a height where the upper end of the float 30 contacts the protruding portion 34, as shown in Figure 6. As a result, even in situations where waves are generated in the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 and the liquid level is difficult to measure, the position of the protruding portion 34 can suppress the wobble of the float 30. The protruding portion 34 is positioned so that when the float 30 moves upward, at least a part of the other members that move with the float 30 approaches or contacts the protruding portion 34. They may be positioned to come into contact with each other.

[0084] While a system that moves a float along a vertically positioned guide can also detect the liquid detergent level and potentially provide a wave-damping effect, using a highly viscous liquid detergent increases the sliding resistance between the guide and the float, potentially making it difficult for the float to follow fluctuations in the liquid level. Furthermore, when the liquid detergent level drops, the detergent adhering between the guide and the float may solidify, preventing the float from moving. Additionally, if the detergent tank is shallow, the float's range of motion is limited, making it difficult to precisely detect the liquid level.

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

[0086] In this embodiment of the dishwasher, a pivot shaft 32 is provided parallel to the direction in which the washing tank 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2, and the detergent tank 15 is inserted in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the washing tank 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2. Furthermore, a float 30 is configured to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the washing tank 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2. As a result, when inserting and removing the washing tank 1 from the housing 2, the waves generated in the insertion / removal direction can be effectively canceled out by the float 30, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmospheric vent, pivot shaft 32, and fitting parts of the arm 33. When inserting and removing the detergent tank 15 from the detergent tank storage section 14, the waves generated in the insertion / removal direction can also be canceled out by the float 30, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmospheric vent, pivot shaft 32, and fitting parts of the arm 33.

[0087] In another example, a pivot shaft 32 may be provided parallel to the direction in which the detergent tank 15 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 14, and the float 30 may be configured to rotate in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the detergent tank 15 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 14. This allows the float 30 to effectively cancel out waves generated in the insertion / removal direction when the detergent tank 30 is inserted into and removed from the detergent tank storage section 14, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmospheric vent, pivot shaft 32, and fitting parts of the arm 33, and also preventing liquid detergent from spilling from the detergent tank 15 when the user refills it. Similarly, when the washing tank 1 is inserted into and removed from the housing 2, the float 30 can cancel out waves generated in the insertion / removal direction, thereby preventing liquid detergent from adhering to the atmospheric vent, pivot shaft 32, and fitting parts of the arm 33.

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

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

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

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

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

[0093] First, let's describe the inner cylinder 502 and outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151. The inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151 has a ring-shaped packing 504 attached to its tip, and the inner surface of the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 and the ring-shaped packing 504 of the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151 are in close contact to form a seal. The diameter of the inner surface of the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 is basically wider than the diameter of the outer surface of the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151, so a hollow passage 505 is formed between the outer cylinder 501 and the inner cylinder 502. However, when the tank-side check valve 151 is in an independent state, the ring-shaped packing 504 provided at the tip of the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151 has a recess 503 on the inner surface of the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 that narrows radially in the direction of the center, only in the portion of the inner surface of the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 that it contacts. Therefore, the packing is in close contact only when the check valve is independent.

[0094] Furthermore, the passage 505 between the outer cylinder 501 and the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151 is filled with liquid detergent. When the check valve is independent, the detergent filling this passage 505 is blocked in front of the recess 503 and the ring-shaped packing 504. The inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151 is equipped with an elastic body such as a spring, and when the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, the inner cylinder of the tank-side check valve 151 expands and contracts due to being pushed by the inner cylinder 402 of the main body-side check valve 141.

[0095] On the other hand, the inner cylinder 402 of the main body check valve 141 shown in Figure 10 has a hollow interior, and liquid detergent is stored in the hollow portion of the inner cylinder. When the main body check valve 141 is in an independent state, only the tip 142 of the inner cylinder 402 is visible. The inner cylinder 402 of the main body check valve 141 has a detergent inlet hole 403 on a part of its side. The detergent inlet hole 403 and the hollow portion of the inner cylinder 402 of the main body check valve 141 are in communication. The inner cylinder 402 of the main body check valve 141 has a ring-shaped packing 404 attached to the tip of the inner cylinder 402 beyond the detergent inlet hole 403, and the inner surface of the outer cylinder 401 of the main body check valve 141 and the ring-shaped packing 404 of the inner cylinder 402 of the main body check valve 141 are in close contact and sealed. Here, two ring-shaped packings 404 are provided, positioned on both sides of the detergent inlet hole 403. Therefore, when the check valves are independent, the detergent filling the area around the detergent inlet hole 403 is blocked before it reaches the packings. The outer cylinder 401 of the main body check valve 141 is equipped with an elastic body such as a spring, and when the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, the outer cylinder of the main body check valve 141 expands and contracts due to being pushed by the outer cylinder of the tank-side check valve 151.

[0096] Next, we will explain the movement of the check valves when the tank-side check valve 151 and the main body-side check valve 141 engage. When the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, first the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 and the outer cylinder 401 of the main body-side check valve 141 fit together, as shown in Figure 18. The outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 pushes in and compresses the outer cylinder 401 of the main body-side check valve 141.

[0097] As the detergent tank 15 is inserted further in, the outer cylinder 401 of the main body check valve 141 contracts further, pushing the outer cylinder 401 further inward than the ring-shaped packing 404 at the tip of the inner cylinder 402, and exposing the detergent inlet hole 403 of the main body check valve 141 (see Figure 19). At the same time, the inner cylinder 402 of the main body check valve 141 pushes and contracts the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151, pushing the ring-shaped packing 504 at the tip of the inner cylinder 502 of the tank-side check valve 151 back toward the front side than the recess 503 of the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151. As a result, the passage 505 filled with liquid detergent between the outer cylinder of the tank-side check valve 151 and the inner cylinder of the tank-side check valve 151 is exposed.

[0098] Once the detergent tank 15 is fully inserted, the detergent inlet 403 exposed by the main body check valve 141 and the detergent-filled path 505, which has been pushed back and is now exposed, are in communication. The liquid detergent that was filling the tank-side check valve 151 flows into the detergent inlet 403 of the main body-side check valve 141, and the liquid detergent is supplied to the main body (see Figure 20). In this way, the engagement between the main body-side check valve 141 and the tank-side check valve 151 creates a path for transferring liquid detergent from the detergent discharge port 152 to the detergent tank storage section 14 once the inserted detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0099] Next, the sealing method between the check valves will be explained. When the tank-side check valve 151 is pushed in, the outer cylinder 401 of the main body-side check valve is pushed in and contracts, causing the ring-shaped packing 404 provided at the tip of the main body-side check valve 141 to protrude. This protruding ring-shaped packing 404 then presses against the inner surface of the tank-side check valve 151 outer cylinder 501, which has been pushed in and extended, thereby sealing the check valves together (see Figures 19 and 20). There are two ring-shaped packings 404 provided at the tip of the main body-side check valve 141, but in particular, the ring-shaped packing on the side located towards the back in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15, as it moves further into the cylindrical hole of the tank-side check valve 151 outer cylinder 501, the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole becomes smaller than the opening, forming a tapered shape.

[0100] When the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole decreases to a certain size, the inner diameter becomes constant. Then, when the ring-shaped packing 404 located on the inner side reaches the position where the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole becomes constant, the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole in the outer cylinder 501 becomes smaller than the diameter of the packing 404, and the packing is pressed into a hole with a smaller diameter than itself. In this way, the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 and the inner cylinder 401 of the main body-side check valve 141 are pressed and sealed. A vacuum is maintained between the sealed check valves.

[0101] Here, if the range over which the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole in the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 remains constant is wide, or if the tip of the inner surface of the outer cylinder 501 is configured without a widening angle toward the back, or with a small angle, the tank-side check valve 151 is immediately biased upon being pushed into the main body-side check valve 141, forming a vacuum state. As a result, the valves are less likely to detach immediately after the tank-side check valve 151 is pushed in. With this configuration, even if the push-in when inserting the detergent tank 15 is weak, detergent leakage can be prevented because the valves are biased together.

[0102] In this way, the main body check valve presses against the tank check valve to seal it, preventing detergent from leaking out between the two check valves even when the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14 and detergent is passing between the main body check valve 141 and the tank check valve 151. It is possible.

[0103] The configuration of this sealing portion is not limited to the above example, and the range in which the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole is constant may be narrow. Alternatively, the tip of the inner surface of the outer cylinder 501 may be angled sharply toward the back. Alternatively, a hole may be provided at the tip of the inner surface of the outer cylinder 501 of the tank-side check valve 151 to release the vacuum state. In these cases, the tank-side check valve 151 does not immediately reach the range in which the inner diameter of the cylindrical hole is constant when pushed into the main body-side check valve 141, so the valves will not be biased against each other by pushing the tank-side check valve 151 only slightly. With this configuration, the detergent tank 15 can be easily removed when removing it or when temporarily placing the detergent tank 15 before complete insertion, making it easy to handle.

[0104] [Lock mechanism of the check valve on the tank side] According to this embodiment, the tank-side check valve 151 is detachable and is fitted into the tank-side receiving port 159 inside the detergent tank 15.

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

[0106] When the tank-side check valve 151 is removed from the detergent tank 15 and then returned to the detergent tank 15, the tank-side check valve 151 is rotated like a cap to close and secure it against the detergent tank 15, preventing detergent from leaking out between the tank-side check valve 151 and the tank's internal receiving port 159. This state in which the tank-side check valve 151 is fixed and closed against the tank's internal receiving port 159 will be referred to as the check valve being locked.

[0107] If, by any chance, the user removes the tank-side check valve 151 and then forgets to lock it, inserts the detergent tank 15 into the detergent tank storage compartment 14, and then pulls out the detergent tank storage compartment 14, the tank-side check valve 151 will come off, and the detergent will leak out.

[0108] The locking mechanism works by fitting an inclined projection 160 provided on the tank-side check valve 151 with a projection fitting hole provided at the tip of the tank-side receiving port 159. The inclined projection 160 is a projection with a radial gradient, and this inclined projection 160 rotates from the lower gradient to the higher gradient. On the other hand, the projection fitting hole has a gradient at its end that is opposite to the gradient of the inclined projection 160, from the higher to the lower gradient. When the inclined projection 160 rotates to a position where the increasing radial gradient exceeds the decreasing radial height of the projection fitting hole, the inclined projection 160 can no longer rotate, and the tank-side check valve 151 becomes immobile in the rotational, depth, and vertical directions, thus fixing the tank-side check valve 151 to the tank-side receiving port 159.

[0109] The tank-side check valve 151 can be closed by the user, or it can be configured to automatically lock when the detergent tank is inserted and set, as described below. If it is configured to automatically lock, even if the user inserts the detergent tank without closing the check valve after it has been inserted, the check valve will automatically lock during insertion, preventing detergent from leaking out from between the tank-side check valve 151 and the tank's receiving port 159.

[0110] Specifically, in order to rotate the inclined projection 160, the configuration may be such that a part of the outer surface of the tank-side check valve 151 and a part of the inside of the detergent tank storage section 14 come into contact with each other.

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

[0112] While one or more valve tip projections 157 are sufficient, in this embodiment, multiple valve tip projections 157 are provided. Specifically, two are provided on the outer surface of the detergent discharge port 152 at positions approximately 180° apart. Having two valve tip projections 157 allows for engagement at two points when the user inserts the tank-side check valve 151, doubling the probability of successful engagement compared to having only one projection, thus reducing the effort required for insertion. Of course, more than two valve tip projections 157 are also acceptable.

[0113] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 13 and other figures, the valve tip projection 157 is perpendicular to the outer surface of the cylindrical tank-side check valve 151 and is formed as a flat plate with a plane extending radially. The flat plate of the valve tip projection 157 is rectangular, and of the two radially outer corners of the rectangle, the inner corner is rounded off so as to come into contact with a part of the inside of the detergent tank storage section 14.

[0114] According to this embodiment, the valve tip projection 157 rotates by contacting a part of the inner surface of the detergent tank storage section 14. Specifically, a protruding rib is provided on the inner surface of the detergent tank storage section 14. This rib causes the valve tip projection 157 to rotate.

[0115] Here, Figure 11 is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 15 before the tank-side check valve 151 is installed, and Figure 12 is a schematic front view of the detergent tank 15 while the tank-side check valve 151 is being installed. In this way, the tank-side check valve 151 is attached and detached.

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

[0117] In this embodiment, since the detergent discharge port 152 is cylindrical, the inner surface of the rib is formed in a curved shape to conform to the cylindrical shape. Furthermore, the action of the tank-side check valve 151 being pushed in and the action of the valve tip projection 157 contacting the rib occur simultaneously. In other words, since the valve tip projection 157 needs to rotate while moving inward, the rib is formed in a three-dimensional spiral shape, with a larger curve as it moves inward. This spiral rib 143 has a spiral-shaped stepped portion 144 and a curved inner surface 145.

[0118] When the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, it slides inward, and at the same time, the valve tip projection 157 rotates while contacting the spiral rib 143. In particular, the spiral rib 143 has a stepped portion 144 with a widening spiral shape that curves downward as it moves inward in the depth direction. Therefore, when the tank-side check valve 151 is pushed in, the valve tip projection 157, which was located above, is guided to rotate downward while contacting the widening spiral stepped portion 144. When the valve tip projection 157 reaches the far end of the spiral rib 143, it has finished rotating to a position where the inclined projection 160 fits into the projection fitting hole, and the tank-side check valve 151 is locked into the tank's receiving port 159.

[0119] In other words, the spiral rib 143 is positioned such that when the tank-side check valve 151 is in a position where it is biased with the main body-side check valve 141, the inner end of the spiral rib 143 is located there. In this embodiment, the spiral rib 143 is formed on the inner surface of the detergent tank storage section 14, on the front side in the dishwasher and on the rear side in the depth direction of the detergent tank.

[0120] The insertion of the detergent tank 15 and the rotation of the spiral rib 143 are shown, for example, in the order of Figures 13, 14, and 7.

[0121] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the valve tip projection 157 just before it contacts the front end of the spiral rib 143 and is guided by the step 144 to rotate downward. Figure 14 is a perspective view of the valve tip projection 157 in the process of contacting the step 144 and being guided to rotate downward. And Figure 15 is a partially enlarged perspective view of the vicinity of the tank-side check valve 151 and the spiral rib 143.

[0122] In this configuration, when the detergent tank 15 is inserted into the detergent tank storage section 14, the tank-side check valve 151 is automatically closed to the detergent tank 15. This prevents detergent from leaking out between the tank-side check valve 151 and the tank's internal receiving port 159, even if the user does not insert the check valve properly or forgets to close it before insertion.

[0123] In this embodiment, the tank-side check valve 151 is configured to automatically lock when rotated by the valve tip projection 157, but the invention is not limited to this configuration as long as it locks in a way that prevents detergent from leaking out. For example, the tank-side check valve 151 may be configured to lock into a fitting provided in the tank's receiving port 159 with a single touch as soon as it is pushed in, or it may be rotated by a different means, such as a screw-type valve on the edge of the cap instead of a valve tip projection.

[0124] In this embodiment, the tank-side check valve 151 is locked, preventing liquid detergent from leaking from the detergent tank 15, before the tank-side check valve 151 and the main body-side check valve 141 engage and become energized. However, this order may differ.

[0125] [Regarding the control method of the cleaning device] The control device 19 is implemented using hardware such as a microcomputer, microcontroller, and integrated circuit.

[0126] The control device 19 includes a process control unit, a detection result acquisition unit, a liquid level determination unit, a detergent tank storage determination unit, a liquid supply control unit, a notification unit, a standing time acquisition unit, a liquid supply target amount determination unit, a memory, and the like. These components are implemented hardware-wise by the CPU, memory, and other LSIs of any computer, and software-wise by programs loaded into memory, but here we are describing the functional blocks that are realized through the cooperation of these components. Therefore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be implemented in various forms, such as hardware only or a combination of hardware and software.

[0127] The process control unit controls the washing operation of the dishwasher. The process control unit receives instructions from the user via the dishwasher's control panel and controls the washing operation according to the instructions. The process control unit may execute the washing, rinsing, and drying processes sequentially, execute only one of the processes, or execute any combination of two or more processes in any order.

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

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

[0130] The detergent tank storage determination unit determines whether or not the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 14 based on the detection result obtained by the detection result acquisition unit. The detergent tank storage determination unit determines that the detergent tank 15 is stored in the detergent tank storage unit 14 if the detection result obtained by the detection result acquisition unit indicates that the magnetic sensor has detected the magnetism of the magnetic material. The detergent tank storage determination unit determines that the detergent tank 15 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 14 if the detection result obtained by the detection result acquisition unit indicates that the magnetic sensor has not detected the magnetism of the magnetic material.

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

[0132] If the detergent tank storage determination unit determines that the detergent tank 15 is not stored in the detergent tank storage unit 14, the liquid supply control unit controls the detergent pump 16 to prevent liquid detergent from being supplied from the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 1. This prevents the washing process from being executed without detergent being supplied to the washing tank 1. It also prevents air from being introduced into the liquid detergent flow path from the detergent tank 15 to the washing tank 1, which would prevent the target amount of detergent from being properly supplied to the washing tank 1 when washing is performed in subsequent cycles.

[0133] [Effects, etc., in Embodiment 1] The cleaning device according to Embodiment 1 can achieve the following effects.

[0134] The dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure comprises a housing 2, a washing tank 1 provided inside the housing 2 for accommodating items to be washed, and a detergent tank 15 for storing liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank 1. The detergent tank 15 has a detergent inlet 152 for introducing liquid detergent into the detergent tank 15. A floating body that floats in the liquid detergent is provided inside the detergent tank 15 via an arm 33. The arm 33 is pivotally supported inside the detergent tank 15 by a pivot shaft 32, and the detergent inlet 152 is located outside the position directly above the range of rotation of the arm 33.

[0135] This configuration allows the user to easily dispense detergent without the floating body and arm 33 getting in the way. Furthermore, this arrangement prevents detergent from being dispensed from above the rotating arm 33, thus avoiding increased sliding resistance between the floating body and arm 33, and preventing the floating body from having difficulty following fluctuations in the liquid level. As a result, false detection of the floating body is less likely to occur, and malfunctions are less likely to be induced.

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

[0137] This configuration allows the arm to be as long as possible, thus increasing the sliding range of the float 30. Consequently, the range of liquid levels that the float 30 can detect can be increased.

[0138] In the dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, the detergent dispenser 153 is provided on the top surface of the detergent tank 15, and the detergent dispenser 153 is located towards the back of the center in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15.

[0139] If the detergent dispenser 153 is located at the front, there is a possibility that the detergent tank storage section 14 may be subjected to stress, or the detergent tank 15 may fall or the detergent may spill, due to carelessness such as only partially pulling out the detergent tank before adding detergent. However, with this configuration, when users add detergent to the detergent tank 15, they will pull out the detergent tank 15 completely to the front, thus preventing the aforementioned accidents.

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

[0141] With this configuration, the length of the arm 33 is maintained, and since the float 30 and arm 33 are not located directly below the detergent dispenser 153, the user can easily dispense the detergent.

[0142] In the dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, the top outer surface of the detergent tank 15 has a message section 35 facing the user towards the front of the center in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15.

[0143] With this configuration, when the user pulls out the detergent tank 15, they can reliably see the message unit 35 which is located in front of the detergent dispenser 153.

[0144] In the dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure, the content of the message section 35 is a sticker containing a warning about the detergent tank 15.

[0145] This configuration ensures that when a user pulls out the detergent tank 15, they can reliably check the warning message section 35 before adding detergent.

[0146] In the dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, the top surface of the detergent tank 15 has a stopper rib 36 on its underside, and the stopper rib 36 is positioned between the arm 33 and the detergent inlet 153 in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15, and when the water level of the liquid detergent in the detergent tank 15 drops and the floating body rotates downward and the arm 33 comes into contact with the stopper rib 36, the floating body is in the lowest position.

[0147] With this configuration, the float 30 is not rotated beyond the stopper rib 36, thus suppressing the effects of waves and vibrations during liquid level detection. Furthermore, the sliding range of the float 30 can be maximized within the range where liquid level detection is meaningful.

[0148] In the dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, the floating body is rotatable in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15 in a direction opposite to that of the stopper rib 36.

[0149] With this configuration, the float 30 can maximize its sliding range within a range that is meaningful for detecting the liquid level.

[0150] (Embodiment 2) Embodiment 2 will be described below with reference to Figures 16 and 17. The approximate configuration is as follows: Since it is the same as Embodiment 1, the explanation will be omitted.

[0151] [Configuration around the detergent tank] Figure 16 is a front cross-sectional view of the area around the detergent tank 15 when a removable tray 200 is placed beneath the bottom surface of the detergent tank 15. Figure 17 is a schematic perspective view of the area around the detergent tank 15 when the tray 200 is in place.

[0152] In Embodiment 2, the dishwasher is equipped with a plate-shaped tray 200 on the bottom surface of the detergent tank 15 within the detergent tank storage section 14. By providing the tray 200, even if detergent leaks from the detergent tank 15, check valve, or tank receiving port 159, the tray can catch the detergent without it dripping into the dishwasher. Furthermore, while it is difficult for the user to wipe up spilled detergent inside the dishwasher 1, the tray 200 makes it easy for the user to wipe it up.

[0153] Of course, when providing the tray 200, it is not necessary for the dishwasher to have a removable check valve like in Embodiment 1. It can also be used to catch any detergent that spills from the detergent tank 15 when detergent is added, or to clean the area below the detergent tank 15 and keep it clean.

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

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

[0156] Furthermore, the edge of the rear side of the tray 200, sandwiched between the two third heights 203 provided on both sides, The shape of the tip of the tank-side check valve 151 is configured to fit into the tank-side check valve. In this embodiment, since the tip of the tank-side check valve 151 is cylindrical, a curved edge 204 is formed on the inner side surface, making it easier for the tip of the tank-side check valve 151 to fit into.

[0157] Furthermore, a spiral rib 143 for rotating the valve tip projection 157 may be formed on the tray 200. In particular, it may be provided on one side of the second height 202 or the third height 203, and configured to rotate the valve tip projection 157 when the detergent tank 15 is stored inside. Also, when the spiral rib 143 is provided on the edge of the tray 200, the rib 143 does not have to be spiral-shaped, but any projection that can rotate the valve tip projection 157 will suffice.

[0158] However, the design is not limited to these examples; the spiral rib 143 only needs to be configured to allow the valve tip projection 157 to rotate. Furthermore, if there are multiple valve tip projections, the design only needs to allow one or more of these projections to rotate.

[0159] [Effects, etc., in Embodiment 2] The cleaning device according to Embodiment 2 can achieve the following effects.

[0160] The dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure comprises a housing 2, a washing tank 1 provided inside the housing 2 for accommodating items to be washed, and a detergent tank 15 for storing liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank 1. The detergent tank 15 is removable from a detergent tank storage section 14 inside the housing 2, the detergent tank storage section 14 has a plate-shaped tray 200 on its bottom surface, and the detergent tank 15 is installed on the tray 200.

[0161] With this configuration, even if detergent leaks from the detergent tank 15 or check valve, it will not drip into the dishwasher and will be caught by the tray. Furthermore, while it would be difficult for the user to wipe up spilled detergent inside the dishwasher 1, the tray 200 allows the user to easily wipe it up or clean it regularly.

[0162] In the dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, the tray 200 is detachable and has multiple height levels at its edges.

[0163] With this configuration, even if detergent leaks from the detergent tank 15 or check valve, it will not drip into the dishwasher and will be caught by the tray 200. Also, if the tray 200 becomes dirty, the user can easily pull it out and wipe or clean it. Furthermore, even if detergent leaks into the tray 200, the raised edge prevents the detergent from spilling out of the tray.

[0164] In the dishwasher according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure, the edge of the tray 200 becomes higher toward the back in the depth direction of the detergent tank 15.

[0165] With this configuration, even if detergent leaks into the tray 200, the raised edge prevents the detergent from leaking out of the tray. In addition, because the rear edge of the tray 200 is raised, it is possible to prevent the tray 200 from being unintentionally pulled out together with the detergent tank 15 when the detergent tank 15 is pulled out.

[0166] Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the claims or their equivalents. [Industrial applicability]

[0167] This disclosure is applicable to cleaning devices that can use detergents. Specifically, this disclosure is applicable to small dishwashers placed on tabletops, large dishwashers incorporated into system kitchens, washing machines, and the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0168] 1 Washing tank 1a opening 2 cabinets 3 Door Body 4. Handle 5. The first rail 6. The second rail 7 baskets 8. Tableware 9. Circulation pump 10 Heaters 11 Cleaning nozzles 12 Side wall 13 Front space 14. Detergent tank storage compartment 15 detergent tank 16 detergent pump 17. Washing tank detergent discharge port 18. Detergent discharge path on the washing tank side 19 Control device 23 Plane part 24 Control section 25 Display section 30 floats 31 Cover 32 pivot axes 33 Arms 34 Protrusion 35 Message Section 36 Stopper Rib 37 Top surface protrusions 38 Stepped section 141 Main body check valve 142 Tip of the inner cylinder 143 Spiral Ribs 144 Stepped section 145 Inner surface 151 Tank-side check valve 152 Detergent dispenser 153 Detergent dispenser 154 Detergent dispenser lid 155 Tank handle 156 Feeding auxiliary slope 157 Valve tip projection 158 claws 159 Tank Inlet 160 Inclined protrusion 200 trays 201 First Height Section 202 Second Height Section 203 Third Height Section 204 Curved edge 401 Outer cylinder of the main body check valve 141 402 Inner cylinder of the main body check valve 141 403 Detergent inlet 404 Ring-shaped packing 501 Tank-side check valve 151 outer cylinder 502 Inner cylinder of tank-side check valve 151 503 Indentation 504 Ring-shaped packing 505 aisle

Claims

1. The casing and A washing tank for containing the object to be washed is provided inside the aforementioned housing, A detergent tank for storing liquid detergent supplied to the washing tank, A detergent tank storage section in which the aforementioned detergent tank is housed so that it can be easily inserted and removed, Equipped with, The detergent tank has a detergent inlet on its top surface for pouring liquid detergent into the tank, and is provided with a detergent dispenser lid that can be opened and closed to cover the detergent inlet. A stepped portion is provided on the top surface of the detergent tank storage compartment. A dishwasher in which, when the detergent tank is inserted into the detergent tank storage section, the detergent dispenser lid is inserted while in contact with the stepped section.

2. The dishwasher according to claim 1, wherein when the detergent tank is stored in the detergent tank storage section, the detergent dispenser lid and the stepped section come into contact, and the detergent dispenser lid is closed.

3. The detergent dispenser lid is pivotally supported, When the detergent tank is inserted into the detergent tank storage section, the detergent dispenser lid rotates from the back to the front. The dishwasher according to claim 2.

4. A top surface projection is provided on the front side of the top surface inside the detergent tank storage section. A dishwasher according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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