A laundry washing machine having a dispenser for loading cleaning agents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a laundry washing machine (100) comprising a machine body (200); a dispenser (300) having a plurality of compartments (310) for loading cleaning agents in fluid form; a dispenser housing (210) provided in the machine body (200) for the placement of the dispenser (300); and a plurality of visual markers (400) for indicating the type of cleaning agent in at least one compartment (310).

Description

[0001] 7.3637

[0002] DESCRIPTION A LAUNDRY WASHING MACHINE HAVING A DISPENSER FOR LOADING CLEANING AGENTS

[0003] The present invention relates to a laundry washing machine, particularly to a laundry washing machine enabling loading cleaning agents, thereby automatically transferring the cleaning agent into the washing tub during the washing process.

[0004] The primary function of laundry washing machines is to perform the cleaning and maintenance of textiles. For the said cleaning and maintenance operations, cleaning agents are used during the washing process. A conventional laundry washing machine comprises a dispenser having a compartment wherein the desired cleaning agents are loaded before the washing process. During the operation of the laundry washing machine, the cleaning agents such as detergent, softener, bleach, stain remover, etc., loaded in the compartments, are transferred from the respective compartments into the machine tub according to the instructions of the washing program and are utilized accordingly. The type and amount of cleaning agent to be used in the washing process must be adjusted by the user before the washing process. This adjustment process imposes an additional task and difficulty for the user. With the increasing use of cleaning agents in fluid form, laundry washing machines have been developed which automatically transfer the cleaning agents to be used into the washing tub in order to eliminate the aforementioned difficulty. In the state of the art laundry washing machines of the aforementioned type, the dispenser has a plurality of compartments for loading cleaning agents in fluid form. The users load the said compartments with cleaning agents in advance. The laundry washing machine receives and transfers different cleaning agents from the respective compartments into the washing tub according to the instructions of the washing program. In this type of laundry washing machines, the type of cleaning agent present in a compartment is mostly predetermined. For example, the dispenser has a detergent compartment and a softener compartment. Which type of cleaning agent should be placed into which compartment is indicated by visual markers on the dispenser. Thus, the control unit of the laundry washing machine takes the cleaning agent from the corresponding compartment according to the washing program and transfers the same into the washing tub without any problems. This type of laundry washing machine limits the users in terms of the type of cleaning agent to be used. For instance, some users prefer not to use softeners in any washing process due to allergic conditions or various other reasons. In this case, the7.3637

[0005] softener compartment in the dispenser remains unused throughout the entire economic life of the laundry washing machine.

[0006] Due to the above-mentioned technical problems in the laundry washing machines, there is a need for a laundry washing machine which allows the use of different types of cleaning agents in the dispenser compartments.

[0007] In the state of the art United States Patent Document No. US11255038B2, a laundry washing machine is disclosed, comprising a cleaning agent distributor having a dispenser with one or more than one compartment open at the top side for receiving one or more than one cleaning agent for washing laundry, and a water distributor disposed on top of the dispenser. A lid member is arranged between the dispenser and the water distributor, and the lid member comprises at least one opening positioned over one or more than one open compartment.

[0008] An aim of the present invention is the realization of a laundry washing machine wherein the type of cleaning agent loaded into a dispenser compartment can be selectively indicated.

[0009] Another aim of the present invention is the realization of a laundry washing machine wherein the type of cleaning agent loaded into a dispenser compartment can be introduced to the control unit. Yet another aim of the present invention is the realization of a laundry washing machine wherein the dosage amount of the cleaning agent loaded into a dispenser compartment can be introduced to the control unit.

[0010] Yet another aim of the present invention is the realization of a laundry washing machine wherein the type of cleaning agent loaded into a dispenser compartment can be automatically introduced to the control unit.

[0011] Yet another aim of the present invention is the realization of a laundry washing machine wherein a dosage amount determination interface, for determining the dosage amount of a cleaning agent of which the type has been automatically introduced to the control unit, is automatically displayed on a digital display interface.

[0012] The laundry washing machine of the present invention comprises a machine body; a dispenser having a plurality of compartments for loading cleaning agents in fluid form; a dispenser housing provided in the machine body for the placement of the dispenser; and a plurality of visual markers for indicating the type of cleaning agent in at least one compartment.7.3637

[0013] The laundry washing machine of the present invention further comprises at least one indicator which can be brought into a plurality of matching positions wherein at least one compartment is matched with one of the visual markers.

[0014] By means of the laundry washing machine of the present invention, it becomes possible to load different types of cleaning agents into the compartment of the dispenser as per user preference, and to use the cleaning agent in the compartment in the washing programs. When the user intends to refill the compartment with a cleaning agent, they can correctly identify the type of cleaning agent which was previously present in the compartment without allowing for any error. The user may optionally change the type of cleaning agent in the compartment later on. Thus, by means of the laundry washing machine of the present invention, it becomes possible for users with different cleaning agent habits to utilize all compartments of the dispenser.

[0015] In cases where the laundry washing machine is not used frequently and therefore the compartment needs to be refilled with cleaning agent after a long time, the present invention is particularly advantageous. As the user loaded a cleaning agent into the compartment a long time ago, they may no longer remember the type of cleaning agent loaded into the compartment. Moreover, in the laundry washing machines used by multiple users, one user may not know the type of cleaning agent loaded into the compartment by another user. By means of the embodiments of the present invention, it becomes possible for the user to easily understand, with the aid of visual markers, which cleaning agent was previously loaded into the compartment.

[0016] In the absence of the indicator provided in the laundry washing machine of the present invention, the user would not be able to know which type of cleaning agent was previously present in the compartment. This situation may lead to the compartment being refilled with a different type of cleaning agent, causing problems to arise. One of these problems is that the laundry may not be washed as desired due to the mixing of cleaning agents. For example, there may be cases where a strong stain remover is added to the compartment although a detergent was previously loaded therein. In such a case, during the washing program, the control unit will assume that detergent is present in the compartment and will transfer an amount of stain remover into the washing tub which is significantly more than necessary. As a result, the laundry may need to be rewashed, or the laundry may be damaged. Another of these problems is the mixing of different types of cleaning agents. For example, there may be cases where a detergent is added to the compartment after a7.3637

[0017] softener was previously present therein. In such a case, during the washing program, the control unit will assume that softener is present in the compartment and will transfer an amount of detergent into the washing tub which is significantly more than necessary. Excessive foam formation may occur inside the tub. As a result, the laundry may need to be rewashed, the laundry may be damaged, and even the laundry washing machine may be damaged due to the pressure and fluid leakage caused by excessive foam. The laundry washing machine of the present invention prevents all of these aforementioned problems from occurring.

[0018] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises at least one type identification interface which enables the type of cleaning agent indicated by the visual marker matched with the compartment to be introduced to a control unit. When a different type of cleaning agent is filled into the compartment, the new type of cleaning agent mentioned above must be introduced to the control unit. Thus, the new type of cleaning agent present in the compartment can be used in the appropriate steps of the washing program.

[0019] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises at least one dosage amount determination interface which enables the dosage amount of the cleaning agent indicated by the visual marker matched with the compartment to be introduced to a control unit. In the embodiments of the present invention, the compartment is suitable for loading cleaning agents in fluid form. The densities of cleaning agents in fluid form may vary. This density difference may change the amount of cleaning agent to be used and transferred to the washing tub during the washing program. By means of the dosage amount determination interface, the dosage amount of the identified type of cleaning agent present in the compartment can be introduced to the control unit. Thus, the identified type of cleaning agent present in the compartment can be used in the correct amount during the appropriate steps of the washing program.

[0020] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises a position sensor for detecting the matching position to which the indicator is brought; and a control unit which identifies, as the type of cleaning agent present in the compartment, the type of cleaning agent indicated by the visual marker matched with the compartment at the matching position to which the indicator, as detected by the position sensor, is brought. By means of this embodiment of the present invention, the type of cleaning agent present in the compartment is automatically defined to the7.3637

[0021] control unit. Thus, the possibility of the user introducing the wrong type of cleaning agent in the compartment to the control unit is eliminated.

[0022] In the laundry washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention, the position sensor comprises:

[0023] - a magnetic field sensor which is assigned to each matching position; and

[0024] - a magnetic member which is provided on the indicator and which, when the indicator is at a matching position, triggers the magnetic field sensor assigned to the respective matching position. In this embodiment of the present invention, the matching position to which the indicator is brought / positioned is detected as the magnetic field sensor detects the magnetic field emitted by the magnetic member. Since the detection is performed by using a magnetic field without any physical contact, no sound which could disturb the user, particularly users with misophonia, is generated during the detection. Moreover, the magnetic member can be embedded into the indicator or positioned in a section outside of the user's line of sight (for example, behind the indicator). This embodiment is the preferred embodiment of the present invention and offers a low-cost, durable, and particularly design-flexible solution for the position sensor and the indicator.

[0025] In the laundry washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention, the position sensor comprises:

[0026] - a light sensor which is assigned to each matching position and which has a light source and a reflected light detector; and

[0027] - a light-reflective surface which is provided on the indicator and which, when the indicator is at a matching position, triggers the light sensor assigned to the respective matching position. This embodiment of the present invention provides a good alternative for the position sensor. In this embodiment of the present invention, the matching position to which the indicator is brought / positioned is detected by the reflected light emitted from the light-reflective surface on the indicator being detected by the reflected light detector of the light sensor. Since the detection is carried out using light without any physical contact, no sound which could disturb the user, particularly users with misophonia, is generated during the detection.

[0028] In the laundry washing machine in an embodiment of the present invention, the position sensor comprises:7.3637

[0029] - a detection switch which is assigned to each matching position; and

[0030] - the indicator which, when the indicator is brought to a matching position, triggers the detection switch assigned to the respective matching position. This embodiment of the present invention provides a low-cost and reliable alternative for the position sensor.

[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises the magnetic field sensor, the light sensor, or the detection switch provided in the dispenser housing. For the purpose of refilling the compartment with cleaning agent, the dispenser can preferably be pulled outward while remaining in the dispenser housing. After the refilling process is completed, the dispenser is pushed back into the dispenser housing and repositioned. The movement of the dispenser relative to the dispenser housing causes the cables which provide the connection between the position sensor and the control unit to move and bend. Over time, this movement may lead to failure of the cable itself or sockets positioned between the cable and the position sensor. In these embodiments of the present invention, the magnetic field sensor, the light sensor, or the detection switch is positioned not in the dispenser, but in the dispenser housing. Thus, the movement of the dispenser relative to the dispenser housing does not cause the cables providing the connection between the position sensor and the control unit to move.

[0032] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises a digital display interface, and a control unit which is adapted to display, on the digital display interface, a dosage amount determination interface for determining the dosage amount of the cleaning agent, which is present in the compartment and of which the type is determined. By means of this embodiment of the present invention, it becomes easier for the user to introduce the dosage amount of the identified type of cleaning agent present in the compartment to the control unit. Moreover, the display of the dosage amount determination interface on the digital display interface serves as a reminder that the user needs to introduce the dosage amount to the control unit. Thus, the use of cleaning agent with incorrect dosage amount in the washing programs is prevented.

[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises a placement surface on which the visual markers are located; and the indicator which is movably positioned on the placement surface and which, when brought to a matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker matched with the compartment, while covering the other visual markers so as to prevent them from being seen. In this embodiment of the present invention, the visual markers7.3637

[0034] which can be matched with the compartment are provided on the placement surface. Among the said visual markers, only the visual marker matched with the compartment is exposed, while the others are covered / obscured by the indicator. Thus, only the visual marker matched with the compartment remains visible on the placement surface. Consequently, this facilitates the user's accurate perception of the visual marker matched with the compartment.

[0035] In a variation of this embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises the indicator in the form of a disk piece, which is positioned on the placement surface so as to rotate around a central point, wherein the visual markers are positioned around the central point, and which, when brought to a matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker matched with the compartment while covering the other visual markers so as to prevent them from being seen. In this embodiment of the present invention, the indicator is in the form of a disk piece and can be rotated around the central point. The ability to rotate and move the indicator enables the user to move and position the indicator easily and precisely among the matching positions. Moreover, the visual markers are positioned around the central point. For example, the area around the central point can be divided into radial segments, and one visual marker can be provided at each radial segment. Thus, a large number of visual markers which can be matched with the compartment can be efficiently arranged on a placement surface of limited dimensions.

[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises the indicator which is positioned on the placement surface so as to move linearly, which has a window opening, and which, when brought to a matching position, enables the visual marker matched with the compartment to be seen through the window opening. In this embodiment of the present invention, only the visual marker aligned with the window opening on the placement surface is visible. Consequently, this facilitates the user's accurate perception of the visual marker matched with the compartment.

[0037] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises a placement surface on which the visual markers are provided; and the indicator which is movably positioned on the placement surface and which, when brought to a matching position, aligns with the visual marker matching with the compartment and points to the relevant visual marker. In this embodiment, the indicator points to the visual marker matching with the compartment. The indicator is not required to cover the visual markers other than the matching visual marker. This embodiment7.3637

[0038] enables a very high number of visual markers to be positioned on the placement surface. Since the indicator is not required to cover the visual markers, the dimensions thereof can be independent of the size of the visual marker, for example, can be smaller. This provides design flexibility for the placement surface, the visual marker, and the indicator.

[0039] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises at least one retaining claw which increases the retention of the indicator on the placement surface and ensures that the indicator remains in the matching position to which the indicator is brought without being affected by vibrations which may occur during the operation of the laundry washing machine. By means of the retaining claw, the indicator is enabled to remain fixed in the position of the matching position to which the indicator is brought, and is prevented from moving to another matching position due to vibrations which may occur during the operation of the laundry washing machine. In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine comprises a compartment opening for allowing the loading of the cleaning agents into the compartment; and a lid which covers the compartment opening and whereon the visual marker and the indicator are positioned. In this embodiment of the present invention, the lid also serves as a placement surface. While loading the cleaning agent into the compartment, the user must physically interact with the lid during the opening and closing operations. This interaction serves as a reminder to the user that, if a different type of cleaning agent is loaded into the compartment, the indicator must be brought to a different matching position. The different matching position mentioned here is the matching position which enables the visual marker describing the different type of cleaning agent mentioned above to be matched with the compartment.

[0040] The washing machine realized in order to attain the aims of the present invention is illustrated in the attached figures, where:

[0041] Figure 1 - is the isometric view of the dispenser comprising an indicator in the form of a half-disk piece, which is positioned on the placement surface so as to rotate around a central point, wherein the visual markers are positioned around the central point, and which, when brought to a matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker matched with the compartment while covering the other visual markers so as to prevent them from being seen.

[0042] Figure 2 - is the isometric view of the dispenser comprising an indicator in the form of a half-disk piece, which is positioned on the placement surface so as to rotate around a central point, wherein7.3637

[0043] the visual markers are positioned around the central point, and which, when brought to another matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker matched with the compartment while covering the other visual markers so as to prevent them from being seen.

[0044] Figure 3 - is the isometric view of the dispenser comprising an indicator in the form of a shutter, which is positioned on the placement surface so as to move linearly and which, when brought to a matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker matched with the compartment, while covering the other visual marker so as to prevent the same from being seen.

[0045] Figure 4 - is the isometric view of the dispenser comprising an indicator in the form of a shutter, which is positioned on the placement surface so as to move linearly and which, when brought to another matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker matched with the compartment, while covering the other visual marker so as to prevent the same from being seen. Figure 5 - is the isometric view of the dispenser comprising an indicator which is positioned on the placement surface so as to move linearly, which has a window opening, and which, when brought to a matching position, aligns with the visual marker matched with the compartment and points to the relevant visual marker.

[0046] Figure 6 - is the isometric view of the dispenser comprising an indicator which is positioned on the placement surface so as to move, which has a window opening, and which, when brought to another matching position, aligns with the visual marker matched with the compartment and points to the relevant visual marker.

[0047] Figure 7 - is the isometric view of the dispenser showing a sectional view of the dispenser housing, comprising a position sensor which detects the matching position to which the indicator is brought. Figure 8 - is the isometric view of the dispenser showing a sectional view of the dispenser housing, comprising an indicator which contains a magnetic member, which, when the indicator is at a matching position, triggers the magnetic field sensor assigned to the respective matching position. Figure 9 - is the isometric view of the dispenser showing a sectional view of the dispenser housing, comprising an indicator which contains a magnetic member, which, when the indicator is at another matching position, triggers the magnetic field sensor assigned to the respective matching position. Figure 10 - is the isometric view of the dispenser which is positioned in the dispenser housing.7.3637

[0048] Figure 11 - is the isometric view of the laundry washing machine of the present invention.

[0049] The elements illustrated in the figures are numbered as follows:

[0050] 100. Laundry washing machine

[0051] 200. Machine body

[0052] 210. Dispenser housing

[0053] 300. Dispenser

[0054] 310. Compartment

[0055] 311. Lid

[0056] 320. Placement surface

[0057] 321. Central point

[0058] 400. Visual marker

[0059] 500. Indicator

[0060] 510. Serrated surface

[0061] 600. Position sensor

[0062] 610. Magnetic field sensor

[0063] 620. Magnetic member

[0064] 630. Cable channel

[0065] 700. Digital display interface

[0066] 800. Retaining claw

[0067] The present invention relates to a laundry washing machine (100) which comprises a dispenser (300) having a plurality of compartments (310) for loading cleaning agents in fluid form and which can automatically receive washing agents. The laundry washing machine (100) of the present invention, during a washing program, automatically transfers the cleaning agents of identified type from the compartment (310) to the washing tub in a selected amount and performs the washing program.7.3637

[0068] The laundry washing machine (100) of the present invention comprises a machine body (200); a dispenser (300) having a plurality of compartments (310) for loading cleaning agents in fluid form; a dispenser housing (210) provided in the machine body (200) for the placement of the dispenser (300); and a plurality of visual markers (400) for indicating the type of cleaning agent in at least one compartment (310).

[0069] The laundry washing machine (100) of the present invention further comprises at least one indicator (500) which is configured to be brought into a plurality of matching positions wherein at least one compartment (310) is matched with one of the visual markers (400).

[0070] In the embodiments of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) may comprise a control unit which is adapted to perform a laundry washing process by transferring a cleaning agent of an identified type from at least one compartment (310) into the washing tub in a selected amount. Since the laundry washing-drying machines contain a laundry washing machine (100), such machines should also be considered within the scope of the present invention.

[0071] In the embodiments of the present invention, the dispenser (300) in the laundry washing machine (100) has a plurality of compartments (310) for loading, or in other words, storing, cleaning agents in fluid form. The dispenser (300) may be in the form of a cleaning agent box (see Figure 10). Thus, during the operation, the laundry washing machine (100) takes the desired type of cleaning agent from the relevant compartment (310) according to the requirements of the washing program and performs the washing process. At least one compartment (310) in the dispenser (300) of the laundry washing machine (100) comprises a plurality of visual markers (400) for indicating the type of cleaning agent present therein. In the embodiments of the present invention, one compartment (310) may comprise a plurality of visual markers (400), while another compartment (310) may comprise a single visual marker (400) (see Figures 1 to 6). The visual marker (400) is a marker which describes a type of cleaning agent. The visual marker (400) may be exemplified, without being limited to these, as an image, figure, embossment, engraving, coloring, or writing which describes detergent suitable for whites, colored fabrics, darks, wool, synthetics, cottons, or sportswear, as well as softener or stain remover. The indicator (500) can be moved so as to be brought to a plurality of matching positions. Here, the term “movable” may include, without being limited to, movements in the form of rotation, sliding, translation, linear movement, or movement along a path of any form. Each matching position to which the indicator (500) is positioned matches a visual marker (400)7.3637

[0072] with a corresponding compartment (310). For example, when the indicator (500) is brought into a matching position, the corresponding compartment (310) is matched with a visual marker (400) which describes a softener. When the indicator (500) is brought into a different matching position, the corresponding compartment (310) is matched with a visual marker (400) which describes another selected cleaning agent, for example a detergent suitable for colored fabrics.

[0073] By means the embodiments of the present invention, the user marks, using the indicator (500), the type of cleaning agent filled into the compartment (310). For this purpose, the indicator (500) is brought to the relevant matching position so as to match the relevant visual marker (400) (the visual marker (400) which describes the type of cleaning agent loaded) with the compartment (310). When the cleaning agent in the compartment (310) is depleted or reduced, the user will want to refill the compartment (310) with the same type of cleaning agent. In this case, the user looks at the visual marker (400) which is matched with the compartment (310) and understands what type of cleaning agent was previously present in the compartment (310). The user loads into the compartment (310) the cleaning agent described by the visual marker (400) which was previously matched with the compartment (310). Thus, the compartment (310) is refilled with a cleaning agent of the same type as the cleaning agent which was previously loaded into the compartment (310). By means of the embodiments of the present invention, it becomes possible for the user to easily understand, with the aid of visual markers (400), which cleaning agent was previously loaded into the compartment (310).

[0074] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises at least one type identification interface which enables the type of cleaning agent indicated by the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) to be introduced to a control unit. When a different type of cleaning agent is filled into the compartment (310), the new type of cleaning agent mentioned above, present in the compartment (310), must be introduced to the control unit. The type identification interface may comprise a knob, a button, and / or a touchscreen.

[0075] When the same type of cleaning agent (for example, softener) is to be refilled into the compartment (310) (this situation may occur when the cleaning agent in the compartment (310) has been reduced or depleted), the user looks at the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) (a visual describing a softener, in the example) and understands / determines which type of cleaning agent (a softener, in the example) was previously present in the compartment (310). The user refills the7.3637

[0076] compartment (310) with the cleaning agent of the determined type (a softener, in the example). In this case, since the type of cleaning agent (a softener, in the example) in the compartment (310) has already been defined in the control unit, the user does not need to perform any further identification. When a different type of cleaning agent (for example, a detergent suitable for whites) is desired to be filled into the compartment (310) (in this case, the cleaning agent in the compartment (310) must be completely depleted or the cleaning agent in the compartment (310) must have been discharged), the user fills the compartment (310) with the different type of cleaning agent (a detergent suitable for whites, in the example). Then, the visual marker (400) (for example, a visual / textual marker describing a detergent suitable for whites) describing the different type of cleaning agent (a detergent suitable for whites, in the example) is matched with the compartment (310) by bringing the indicator (500) to another matching position. Afterward, the user looks at the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) (a visual marker describing a detergent suitable for whites, in the example) and understands / determines which type of cleaning agent (a detergent suitable for whites, in the example) was previously present in the compartment (310). Thus, when it is desired to refill the same type of cleaning agent (a detergent suitable for whites, in the example) to the compartment (310), the type of cleaning agent previously loaded into the compartment (310) during the previous loading can be determined by looking at the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310). When a different type of cleaning agent (a detergent suitable for whites, in the example) is filled into the compartment (310), the new type of cleaning agent mentioned above, present in the compartment (310), must be introduced to the control unit by means of the type identification interface. Thus, the new type of cleaning agent (a detergent suitable for whites, in the example) present in the compartment (310) can be used in the appropriate steps of the washing program.

[0077] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises at least one dosage amount determination interface which enables the dosage amount of the cleaning agent indicated by the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) to be introduced to a control unit. In the embodiments of the present invention, the compartment (310) is suitable for loading cleaning agents in fluid form. The densities of cleaning agents in fluid form may vary. This density difference may change the amount of cleaning agent to be transferred to the washing tub during the washing program. By means of the dosage amount determination interface, the dosage7.3637

[0078] amount of the identified type of cleaning agent present in the compartment (310) can be introduced to the control unit. The dosage identification interface may comprise a knob, a button, and / or a touchscreen.

[0079] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises a position sensor (600) for detecting the matching position to which the indicator (500) is brought; and a control unit which identifies, as the type of cleaning agent present in the compartment (310), the type of cleaning agent indicated by the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) at the matching position to which the indicator (500), as detected by the position sensor (600), is brought. By means of this embodiment of the present invention, the type of cleaning agent present in the compartment (310) is automatically defined to the control unit. Here, the position sensor (600) detects the current matching position of the indicator (500) (see Figure 7). The current matching position of the indicator (500) defines with which visual marker (400) the compartment (310) is matched. Accordingly, the control unit uses the current matching position information of the indicator (500) to determine the visual marker (400) with which the compartment (310) is matched, and thus to determine the type of cleaning agent described by the marker (400). The type of cleaning agent described by the marker (400) is the type of cleaning agent present in the corresponding compartment (310). Thus, the type of cleaning agent present in the compartment (310) is automatically defined to the control unit. The information of the visual marker (400) matched with the matching position may be prerecorded in the control unit. The aforementioned information may be stored in a non-volatile memory unit.

[0080] In the laundry washing machine (100) in an embodiment of the present invention, the position sensor (600) comprises:

[0081] - a magnetic field sensor (610) which is assigned to each matching position; and

[0082] - a magnetic member (620) which is provided on the indicator (500) and which, when the indicator (500) is at a matching position, triggers the magnetic field sensor (610) assigned to the respective matching position. In this embodiment of the present invention, the magnetic field sensor (610) may be, by way of example, a reed sensor or a Hall-effect sensor. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the magnetic field sensor (610) is in the form of a reed sensor. The magnetic member (620) provided on the indicator (500) may be a permanent magnet. This embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of magnetic field sensors (610). Each magnetic field sensor7.3637

[0083] (610) is assigned to a different matching position. In other words, each different magnetic field sensor (610) is arranged or positioned so as to be triggered when the indicator (500) is at a different matching position (see Figures 8 and 9). Each different matching position of the indicator (500) triggers a different magnetic field sensor (610). Thus, the matching position of the indicator (500) is detected by the magnetic field sensors (610).

[0084] In the laundry washing machine (100) in an embodiment of the present invention, the position sensor (600) comprises:

[0085] - a light sensor which is assigned to each matching position and which has a light source and a reflected light detector; and

[0086] - a light-reflective surface which is provided on the indicator (500) and which, when the indicator (500) is at a matching position, triggers the light sensor assigned to the respective matching position. This embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of light sensors. Each light sensor is assigned to a different matching position. In other words, each different light sensor is arranged or positioned so as to be triggered when the indicator (500) is at a different matching position. Each different matching position of the indicator (500) triggers a different light sensor. Thus, the matching position of the indicator (500) is detected by the light sensor. When the indicator (500) is brought to a matching position, the light-reflective element provided on the indicator (500) reflects the light from the light source and directs the same to the reflected light detector. The light sensor is triggered by the reflected light detector detecting the reflected light.

[0087] In the laundry washing machine (100) in an embodiment of the present invention, the position sensor (600) comprises:

[0088] - a detection switch which is assigned to each matching position; and

[0089] - the indicator (500) which, when the indicator (500) is brought to a matching position, triggers the detection switch assigned to the respective matching position. In this embodiment of the present invention, the detection switch is preferably a touch switch, a limit switch, a tact switch, etc. This embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of detection switches. Each detection switch is assigned to a different matching position. In other words, each different detection switch is arranged or positioned so as to be triggered when the indicator (500) is at a different matching position. Each different matching position of the indicator (500) triggers a different detection switch.7.3637

[0090] Thus, the matching position of the indicator (500) is detected by the detection switch. When brought to a matching position, the indicator (500) physically contacts the limit switch assigned to the said matching position and triggers the limit switch.

[0091] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises the magnetic field sensor (610), the light sensor, or the detection switch positioned in the dispenser housing (210). The movement of the dispenser (300) relative to the dispenser housing (210) causes the cables which provide the connection between the position sensor (600) and the control unit to move and bend. Over time, this movement may lead to failure of the cable itself or sockets positioned between the cable and the position sensor (600). In these embodiments of the present invention, the magnetic field sensor (610), the light sensor, or the detection switch is positioned not in the dispenser (300), but in the dispenser housing (210). Thus, the movement of the dispenser (300) relative to the dispenser housing (210) does not cause the cables providing the connection between the position sensor (600) and the control unit to move. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the magnetic field sensor (610) is positioned in the dispenser housing (210) so as to face an upper portion of the dispenser (300) (see Figures 8 and 9). Figures 8 and 9 show the magnetic field sensors (610) assigned to two different matching positions. In a variation of this embodiment of the present invention, the dispenser housing (210) comprises at least one cable channel (630) in an upper portion thereof which does not face the dispenser (300), in order to guide the cables connecting the magnetic field sensors (610) to the control unit. The cable channel (630) prevents damage to or malfunction of the cable or of sockets which may be positioned between the cable and the position sensor (600) during vibrations which may occur while the laundry washing machine (100) is operating.

[0092] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises a digital display interface (700), and a control unit which is adapted to display, on the digital display interface (700), a dosage amount determination interface for determining the dosage amount of the cleaning agent, which is present in the compartment (310) and of which the type is determined. The densities of cleaning agents in fluid form may vary. This density difference may change the amount of cleaning agent to be used in the washing program and transferred to the washing tub. By means of the dosage amount determination interface, the dosage amount of the identified type of cleaning agent present in the compartment (310) can be introduced to the control unit. Thus, the identified7.3637

[0093] type of cleaning agent present in the compartment (310) can be used in the correct amount during the appropriate steps of the washing program.

[0094] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises a placement surface (320) on which the visual markers (400) are located; and the indicator (500) which is movably positioned on the placement surface (320) and which, when brought to a matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310), while covering the other visual markers (400) so as to prevent them from being seen. In this embodiment of the present invention, when brought to a matching position, the indicator (500) exposes and makes visible the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310). The body of the indicator (500) covers all other visual markers (400) not matched with the compartment (310) and prevents the same from being seen by the user. In an example variation of this embodiment, the indicator (500) moves linearly (see Figures 3 and 4).

[0095] In a variation of this embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises the indicator (500) in the form of a disk piece, which is positioned on the placement surface (320) so as to rotate around a central point (321), wherein the visual markers (400) are positioned around the central point (321), and which, when brought to a matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) while covering the other visual markers (400) so as to prevent them from being seen. In this embodiment, the open portion of the disk piece is aligned with the visual marker (400) so that the visual marker (400) becomes visible. The closed portion of the disk piece covers all other visual markers (400) not matched with the compartment (310) and prevents the same from being seen by the user. The alignment of the open portion of the disk piece with the visual marker (400) matches the compartment (310) with the visual marker (400) and defines the matching position of the indicator (500) (see Figures 1 and 2). The visual markers (400) are positioned around the central point (321). For example, the area around the central point (321) can be divided into radial segments, and one visual marker (400) can be provided at each radial segment. In Figures 1 and 2, the radial opening is 180°, and two visual markers (400) are positioned around the central point (321) on the placement surface (320).

[0096] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises the indicator (500) which is positioned on the placement surface (320) so as to move linearly, which has7.3637

[0097] a window opening, and which, when brought to a matching position, enables the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) to be seen through the window opening. In this embodiment, the indicator (500) has a window opening. Here, the window opening of the indicator (500) is aligned with the visual marker (400) so that the visual marker (400) becomes visible. The portion or portions of the indicator (500) outside of the window opening cover all other visual markers (400) not matched with the compartment (310) and prevent the same from being seen by the user.

[0098] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises a placement surface (320) whereon the visual markers (400) are provided; and the indicator (500) which is movably positioned on the placement surface (320) and which, when brought to a matching position, aligns with the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) and points to the visual marker (400). In this embodiment, the indicator (500) points to the visual marker (400) matching with the compartment (310). The indicator (500) is not required to cover the visual markers (400) other than the matching visual marker (400). This embodiment enables a very high number of visual markers (400) to be positioned on the placement surface (320). Since the indicator (500) is not required to cover the visual markers (400), the dimensions thereof can be independent of the size of the visual marker (400), for example, can be smaller. In this embodiment, the visual marker (400) may be in the form of an arrow (see Figures 5 and 6).

[0099] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises at least one retaining claw (800) which increases the retention of the indicator (500) on the placement surface (320) and ensures that the indicator (500) remains in the matching position to which the indicator (500) is brought without being affected by vibrations which may occur during the operation of the laundry washing machine (100). The retaining claw (800) may be located on a portion of the indicator (500) facing the placement surface (320), or on a surface of the placement surface (320) facing the indicator (500). The retaining claw (800) also applies a counterforce against the movement of the indicator (500) when the indicator (500) is brought to different matching positions, thereby providing the user with enhanced tactile feedback. Thus, the user can bring the indicator (500) to different matching positions more precisely and comfortably.

[0100] In an embodiment of the present invention, the indicator (500) has at least one serrated surface (510) for enhancing the user's tactile feedback (see Figures 3 and 9).7.3637

[0101] In an embodiment of the present invention, the laundry washing machine (100) comprises a compartment opening for allowing the loading of the cleaning agents into the compartment (310); and a lid (311) which covers the compartment opening and whereon the visual marker (400) and the indicator (500) are positioned. The lid (311) provides an ideal surface for the visual marker (400) and the indicator (500). Positioning the visual marker (400) and the indicator (500) outside of the lid (311) would result in occupying the surface area of the dispenser (300), which already has a limited surface area. This may necessitate the use of a small-sized lid (311). The small-sized lid (311) makes it difficult for the user to pour cleaning agent into the compartment (310). However, when it is desired to change the types of visual markers (400), this change can be performed easily and inexpensively by replacing the lid (311) with a new lid (311) having different visual markers (400). In embodiments where the visual markers (400) are provided on the dispenser (300), this replacement process would require replacing the dispenser (300).

Claims

37CLAIMS1. A laundry washing machine (100) comprising a machine body (200); a dispenser (300) having a plurality of compartments (310) for loading cleaning agents in fluid form; a dispenser housing (210) provided in the machine body (200) for the placement of the dispenser (300); and a plurality of visual markers (400) for indicating the type of cleaning agent in at least one compartment (310), characterized by at least one indicator (500) which is configured to be brought into a plurality of matching positions wherein at least one compartment (310) is matched with one of the visual markers (400).

2. A laundry washing machine (100) as in Claim 1, characterized by at least one type identification interface which enables the type of cleaning agent indicated by the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) to be introduced to a control unit.

3. A laundry washing machine (100) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by at least one dosage amount determination interface which enables the dosage amount of the cleaning agent indicated by the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) to be introduced to a control unit.

4. A laundry washing machine (100) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by a position sensor (600) for detecting the matching position to which the indicator (500) is brought; and a control unit which identifies, as the type of cleaning agent present in the compartment (310), the type of cleaning agent indicated by the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) at the matching position to which the indicator (500), as detected by the position sensor (600), is brought.

5. A laundry washing machine (100) as in Claim 4, characterized by the position sensor (600) comprising a magnetic field sensor (610) which is assigned to each matching position; and a magnetic member (620) which is provided on the indicator (500) and which, when the indicator (500) is at a matching position, triggers the magnetic field sensor (610) assigned to the respective matching position.

6. A laundry washing machine (100) as in Claim 4, characterized by the position sensor (600) comprising a light sensor which is assigned to each matching position and which has a light source and a reflected light detector; and a light-reflective surface which is provided on the37indicator (500) and which, when the indicator (500) is at a matching position, triggers the light sensor assigned to the respective matching position.

7. A laundry washing machine (100) as in Claim 4, characterized by the position sensor (600) comprising a detection switch which is assigned to each matching position; and the indicator (500) which, when the indicator (500) is brought to a matching position, triggers the detection switch assigned to the respective matching position.

8. A laundry washing machine (100) as in any one of Claims 5 to 7, characterized by the magnetic field sensor (610), the light sensor, or the detection switch positioned in the dispenser housing (210).

9. A laundry washing machine (100) as in any one of Claims 4 to 8, characterized by a digital display interface (700), and a control unit which is adapted to display, on the digital display interface (700), a dosage amount determination interface for determining the dosage amount of the cleaning agent, which is present in the compartment (310) and of which the type is determined.

10. A laundry washing machine (100) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by a placement surface (320) on which the visual markers (400) are located; and the indicator (500) which is movably positioned on the placement surface (320) and which, when brought to a matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310), while covering the other visual markers (400) so as to prevent them from being seen.

11. A laundry washing machine (100) as in Claim 10, characterized by the indicator (500) in the form of a disk piece, which is positioned on the placement surface (320) so as to rotate around a central point (321), wherein the visual markers (400) are positioned around the central point (321), and which, when brought to a matching position, exposes and makes visible the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) while covering the other visual markers (400) so as to prevent them from being seen.

12. A laundry washing machine (100) as in Claim 10, characterized by the indicator (500) which is positioned on the placement surface (320) so as to move linearly, which has awindow opening, and which, when brought to a matching position, enables the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) to be seen through the window opening.

13. A laundry washing machine (100) as in any one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized by a placement surface (320) whereon the visual markers (400) are provided; and the indicator (500) which is movably positioned on the placement surface (320) and which, when brought to a matching position, aligns with the visual marker (400) matched with the compartment (310) and points to the visual marker (400).

14. A laundry washing machine (100) as in any one of Claims 10 to 13, characterized by at least one retaining claw (800) which increases the retention of the indicator (500) on the placement surface (320) and ensures that the indicator (500) remains in the matching position to which the indicator (500) is brought without being affected by vibrations which may occur during the operation of the laundry washing machine (100).

15. A laundry washing machine (100) as in any one of the above claims, characterized by a compartment opening for allowing the loading of the cleaning agents into the compartment (310); and a lid (311) which covers the compartment opening and whereon the visual marker (400) and the indicator (500) are positioned.

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