ES2555655T3 - Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine and associated washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine (1) comprising a washing tank (2), a washing and / or rinsing water tank (5), a hydraulic water distribution circuit, wherein said circuit Hydraulic water distribution connects said washing tank (2) of said washing machine (1) with said water tank (5), said method comprising a stage of filling with washing water and / or rinsing of said water tank. water (5), characterized in that the water filling stage of said water tank (5) comprises a cleaning stage of a filtration wall (37) disposed above a sump (4) of said washing tank (2 ) by putting into operation a water recovery pump (8) that feeds said water tank with water (5) and by putting into operation a water circulation pump (3) that feeds at least one water with water spray means (24) for spraying said wall d and filtration (37).

Description

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DESCRIPTION

"Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine and associated washing machine"

The present invention relates to a washing machine comprising a reservoir of washing and / or rinsing water, and in particular to a machine for washing dishes or a machine for washing clothes.

It also refers to a method of controlling the operation of a washing machine comprising a reservoir of washing and / or rinsing water.

In general, the present invention relates to washing machines comprising a wash and / or rinse water tank that allows the use of this wash and / or rinse water during the course of a subsequent phase of a operating cycle or during a subsequent operating cycle.

More particularly, the present invention finds application in household washing machines, and in particular in dishwashers and clothes washers.

WO 2010 009 890 A1 is already known, which describes a dishwashing machine comprising a washing tank, a washing and / or rinsing water tank, and a hydraulic water distribution circuit. The hydraulic water distribution circuit connects the washing tank with the water tank. The hydraulic water distribution circuit comprises a unique water circulation pump that serves, on the one hand, to supply water with means of sprinkling of the dishes and, on the other hand, to fill with washing and / or rinse water water tank from a sink in the washing tank.

The water tank comprises a water passage opening arranged in the lower part to fill the water tank with water, and an overflow opening arranged in the upper part to evacuate an excess of water introduced into the water tank by overflow. the wash tank. The overflow opening of the water tank is connected to a water inlet opening created in a wall of the washing tank to evacuate excess water from the water tank to the sink of the washing tank, by means of a circulation of water along a wall of the wash tank.

However, a dishwashing machine that has a wash and / or rinse water tank has the disadvantage of filling the water tank with washing and / or rinsing water, by means of a flow of water flowing progressively from the sink of the washing tank towards the water tank by means of a water circulation pump.

Therefore, during the filling of the water tank with water from the sink of the washing tank, the level of water in the washing tank decreases progressively and the residues are retained by a filtration wall disposed above the sink, said filtration wall arranged in the alignment of the lower wall of the washing tank.

In addition, the flow of water generated by the water circulation pump that feeds with water means of sprinkling the dishes, and that fills the water tank with a wash and / or rinse water from a sink in the washing tank, it is aspirated through an opening created in a side wall of the sink of the washing tank.

Therefore, the residues present in the water do not pass through a filter for large wastes, of a filtration device created inside and in the central part of the sump of the washing tank, since the water circulation pump put into operation during filling with water of the water tank, it does not generate a preferred water flow through the trap for large residues of the filtration device.

On the other hand, the deposit of waste on the filtration wall can accumulate during the succession of operating cycles implemented by the dishwashing machine.

Consequently, the filtration wall becomes increasingly dirty and causes a decrease in the washing performance of the dishwashing machine.

Also known is WO 2012 084 492 A1 which describes a dishwasher comprising a washing tank, a washing and / or rinsing water tank, a hydraulic water distribution circuit, connecting the hydraulic water distribution circuit. washing tank of the machine for washing with the water tank, a water circulation pump that feeds water with water spray means, a water recovery pump that feeds the water tank with water, and a microfiltration device arranged inside a sump of the washing tank.

Also known is EP 0 317 990 A1 which describes a dishwasher comprising a tank intended to receive items for washing, a filter system arranged in the lower part of the tank and which

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it comprises a first filter surface arranged at a level higher than the lowest part of the tank, a projection system designed to aspirate a washing or cleaning liquid through the filter system, at the bottom of the tank, and to project this liquid to the tank by means of spray nozzles, emptying means for emptying the washing or cleaning liquid from the lowest part of the tank, and control means designed to automatically control the system of projection and emptying means during the washing method, this method being designed to be carried out in a set of consecutive washing steps. The control means are designed to carry out the following actions, after one of the washing steps: control of the emptying means to empty a sufficiently large amount of the washing liquid present in the tank, so that the first surface of filter is exposed, and then, interruption of the emptying and activation of the projection system to clean the filter system by circulating the residual amount of washing or cleaning liquid in the projection system.

The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned drawbacks and propose a method of controlling the operation of a washing machine, as well as a washing machine, which allows, during a water filling stage of a water tank wash and / or rinse, clean a filtration wall arranged above a sink of a washing tank and avoid the deposit of waste on it.

In this regard, the present invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a method of controlling the operation of a washing machine comprising a washing tank, a washing and / or rinsing water tank, a hydraulic circuit of water distribution, wherein said hydraulic water distribution circuit connects said washing tank of said washing machine with said water tank, said method comprising a step of filling with washing water and / or rinsing of said water tank .

According to the invention, the water filling stage of said water tank comprises a step of cleaning a filtration wall disposed above a sump of said washing tank, by putting into operation a water recovery pump that feeds said water reservoir with water, and by putting into operation a water circulation pump that feeds at least one water spray means with water to spray said filtration wall.

Thus, during the water filling stage of the water tank by putting the water recovery pump into operation, the waste retained by a filtration wall disposed above a sink in the washing tank, and in particular in the alignment of a lower wall of the wash tank, are carried by a flow of water generated by the water circulation pump that feeds at least one water spray medium with water.

In this way, the residues retained by a filtration wall disposed above the sink of the washing tank are directed towards a filtration device created inside the sink of the washing tank, and in particular towards a filter for large waste from the sump filter device.

The method thus allows, in the course of a stage of filling with water of a reservoir of washing and / or rinsing water, to clean the filtration wall arranged above the sink of the washing tank, and to avoid the deposit of waste about it.

According to a preferred feature of the invention, during the cleaning stage of said filtration wall, by putting into operation said water recovery pump and said water circulation pump, said water circulation pump generates a reduced water flow.

Thus, during the cleaning stage of the filtration wall by putting into operation the water recovery pump and the water circulation pump, the water circulation pump generates a reduced water flow to spray to a minimum the pieces of crockery arranged inside the washing tank, while guaranteeing a spray of the filtration wall.

In addition, the cooling of the dishware pieces arranged inside the washing tank is limited, in particular when the water filling stage of the water tank is implemented after a hot rinsing phase of an operating cycle. of the washing machine, since the pieces of dishes receive a weak spray.

In this way, the drying performance of the crockery pieces arranged inside the washing tank is guaranteed while guaranteeing the cleaning of the filtration wall by putting the water circulation pump into operation. a reduced water flow.

Preferably, the water pressure generated during commissioning of the water circulation pump at a reduced water flow, during the cleaning stage of the filtration wall is lower than the water pressure generated during commissioning. in operation of the water circulation pump at a flow of

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nominal water, during a washing and / or rinsing phase of an operating cycle of the washing machine.

This decrease in the water pressure generated during the commissioning of the water circulation pump, during the cleaning stage of the filtration wall, causes a decrease in the rotation speed of a sprinkler, and a decrease in spray height from the nozzles of a spray medium.

In practice, the evacuation of a reduced water flow through the water circulation pump during the cleaning stage of the filtration wall can be carried out by means of a periodic power supply of the circulation pump of Water.

According to another preferred feature of the invention, in the course of the cleaning stage of said filtration wall, said method comprises a step of detecting a water level in said sump of said washing tank, to stop said circulation pump of water as soon as a predetermined water level is reached in said sink of said washing tank.

Thus, the water circulation pump is put into operation as soon as the water level in the washing tank is higher than the predetermined water level in the sink of the washing tank to spray the filtration wall. Also, the water circulation pump stops as soon as the predetermined water level is reached in the sump of the washing tank to avoid lowering the water recovery pump. Stopping the water circulation pump as soon as the predetermined water level in the sink of the washing tank is reached, also allows stopping the spraying of the crockery pieces arranged inside the washing tank to limit its cooling and impair the drying performance thereof.

In addition, spraying the filtration wall by putting the water circulation pump into operation during the cleaning stage, prevents debris from being deposited on the filtration wall while the water level drops in the sump of the washing tank, due to the filling of the water tank with water by putting the water recovery pump into operation, and in particular when the water level drops below the filtration wall arranged above the sump of the wash tank

In practice, the stage of detecting a water level in said sump of said washing tank is implemented by means of a water level sensor.

Advantageously, the predetermined water level in said sink of said washing tank is located below said filter wall following the height of said washing machine.

According to another preferred feature of the invention, said method comprises a step of stopping said water circulation pump, after a predetermined duration has elapsed to avoid lowering said water recovery pump, in case of failure of the water level detection predetermined in said sump of said washing tank.

Thus, the duration of the spray wall spray by putting the water circulation pump into operation during the cleaning stage, is limited in the event of a water level sensor failure to avoid lowering the water pump. Water recovery that feeds the water tank with water.

Advantageously, the cleaning stage of said filtration wall is implemented in the course of a first stage of feeding with washing and / or rinsing water of said water tank, by putting into operation said recovery pump of Water.

The present invention relates, according to a second aspect, to a washing machine comprising a control unit.

According to the invention, said control unit is adapted to implement the control method according to the invention.

This washing machine has characteristics and advantages similar to those described above in relation to the control method according to the invention.

Other features and advantages of the invention will also be apparent in the following description.

In the attached drawings, provided by way of non-limiting examples:

- Figure 1 is a first partial schematic perspective view showing a dishwashing machine comprising a wash and / or rinse water tank according to an embodiment of the invention;

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- Figure 2 is a second partial schematic perspective view showing a dishwashing machine comprising a washing and / or rinsing water tank according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein the washing tank has been partially omitted;

- Figure 3 is a schematic side view showing a dishwashing machine comprising a wash and / or rinse water tank according to an embodiment of the invention;

- Figure 4 is a sectional view of Figure 3 according to the cutting plane A-A;

- Figure 5 is an exploded view showing a wash and / or rinse water tank comprising two housing-shaped walls according to an embodiment of the invention;

- Figure 6 is a front view showing one of the two walls in the form of a housing according to a first embodiment;

- Figure 7 is a front view showing one of the two walls in the form of a housing according to a second embodiment;

- Figure 8 is a schematic view showing a part of a hydraulic circuit for the distribution of water of a dishwashing machine, comprising a washing and / or rinsing water tank according to an embodiment of the invention;

- Figure 9 is a schematic view showing a part of a hydraulic circuit for distributing water of a dishwashing machine comprising a washing and / or rinsing water tank according to an embodiment of the invention; Y

- Figure 10 is another schematic view showing a part of a water distribution hydraulic circuit of a dishwashing machine comprising a washing and / or rinsing water tank according to an embodiment of the invention.

In the first place, a machine for washing according to one embodiment of the invention will be described, referring to figures 1 to 10.

This washing machine can be a machine for washing household dishes, or a machine for washing household clothes, or a machine for washing and drying household clothes.

An embodiment is shown, referring to Figure 1, which describes a machine for washing the front loading dishes of the dishes. Obviously, the present invention applies to any type of washing machine, and in particular of loading from the top.

A machine for washing dishes 1 comprises a washing tank 2 whose front face is closed by a door (not shown).

In one embodiment, the washing tank 2 can comprise a frame formed by at least side walls. The frame of the machine for washing and drying the dishes 1 can also comprise an upper wall for the machines for washing and for drying the free-standing dishes.

The door of the washing tank 2 allows an opening made in the washing tank 2 to be sealed. This door of the washing tank 2 can thus be mobile between a closed position in which the opening is sealed, in a sealed manner, and a position open

In an exemplary embodiment, and in an absolutely not limiting manner, the door of the washing tank 2 is pivotally mounted around an axis of rotation integral with the frame of the machine for washing the dishes 1.

The wash tank 2 comprises at least one water spray means 24 of a wash and / or rinse bath on the dishes, as shown in Figure 9.

In this case and in an absolutely non-limiting manner, the washing tank 2 comprises an upper water spray windlass, a lower spray windlass and a spray nozzle arranged on the roof of the washing tank 2.

Water from a wash and / or rinse bath is defined as water that allows the cleaning of the dishes and circulates through a hydraulic circuit of water distribution of a machine for washing dishes 1. The origin of the water in a bathroom washing and / or rinsing is water that comes from the machine's power supply network to wash dishes 1.

The washing tank 2 comprises a lower wall 2a, side walls 2b, a bottom wall 2c and an upper wall 2d.

The frame of the dishwashing machine 1 is adapted to accommodate the washing tank 2. Said washing tank 2 is adapted to contain in particular the water of the wash and / or rinse baths of the different phases of a cycle cleaning.

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At least one basket for dishes (not shown) is mounted inside the washing tank 2.

In particular, a basket for dishes may be located in the upper part of the washing tank 2 and designated as the upper basket, and a basket for the dishes may be located in the lower part of the washing tank 2 and designated as a basket lower.

The dishes baskets can be pushed and removed causing them to slide through the inside of the washing tank 2 of the dishwashing machine 1 either after the end of a cleaning cycle for the discharge of the dishes or before the start of a cleaning cycle for loading the dishes.

This dishwashing machine 1 is equipped with a pump for the circulation of water from a wash and / or rinse bath 3 in the washing tank 2.

In an exemplary embodiment, and in an absolutely non-limiting manner, the dishwashing machine 1 operates in such a way that the wash and / or rinse bath retained in a sump 4 created in the bottom wall 2a of the tank is minimized wash 2.

The water circulation pump 3 extracts the water from the wash and / or rinse bath in the sump 4, to circulate the water from the wash and / or rinse bath under pressure to the water spray means 24. Then, the wash and / or rinse bath returns to the sump 4.

This water circulation pump 3 is driven by an electric motor.

Advantageously, the sump 4 created in the bottom wall 2a of the washing tank 2, houses a filtration device 26 to filter the water from a wash and / or rinse bath sucked by the water circulation pump 3 and then placed in circulation to the water spray means 24, as shown in Figure 10.

The dishwashing machine 1 may also comprise a drain pump 27 of the water used in the wash and / or rinse bath.

The drain pump 27 extracts the used water from the wash and / or rinse bath in the wash tank 2, and in particular in the sump 4, to drain the used water from the wash and / or rinse bath to a network of wastewater (not shown) connected to the dishwashing machine 1.

This drain pump 27 is driven by an electric motor.

Advantageously, the filtration device 26 housed in the sump 4 allows water to be filtered from a wash and / or rinse bath sucked by the water circulation pump 3, in particular during the water supply of the water spray means. 24. Likewise, the drain pump 27 allows the dirt trapped in the filtration device 26 to be evacuated during the circulation of water from the sump 4 to an external wastewater network.

The water of at least one wash and / or rinse bath contained in the wash tank 2, and in particular in the sump 4, can be heated by means of a heating means 20, such as for example an electric heating resistor.

The dishwashing machine 1 comprises control means (not shown), and in particular at least one microcontroller, which allows to develop predetermined operating cycles.

Obviously, this dishwashing machine comprises all the necessary elements (not shown) for the operation and for the execution of the washing, rinsing and drying cycles of the dishes.

The washing machine 1 comprises a water storage tank 5 from at least one washing and / or rinsing and / or drying phase for reuse during a subsequent phase of an operating cycle or during a cycle of following operation put into practice by said machine 1.

Preferably, the water tank 5 is internal to the frame of the washing machine 1.

The water tank 5 can be fixed to the washing tank 2 and / or to the frame of the washing machine 1, for example along a side wall 2b of the washing tank 2.

Advantageously, the water tank 5 comprises at least a first and a second water passage opening 6, 7.

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The washing machine 1 comprises a hydraulic water distribution circuit, where the hydraulic water distribution circuit connects the washing tank 2 of the washing machine with the water tank 5.

The washing machine 1 may comprise a feed with water from the network (not shown) to fill the washing tank 2 during the different phases of a wash cycle with water that has not been used during an earlier phase of the operating cycle in course or during a previous operating cycle.

The hydraulic water distribution circuit of the washing machine 1 can be fed with water from the network through a water supply line of the network (not shown) directly connected to the washing machine 1 from an external water network by of a solenoid valve that allows regulating the amount of water necessary for the operation of the washing machine 1.

The hydraulic water distribution circuit of the washing machine 1 connects the washing tank 2 with the water tank 5.

The hydraulic water distribution circuit comprises a water recovery pump 8, to fill with at least one internal storage compartment 11, 16 for water storage of the water tank 5 from a sump 4 of the water tank. wash tank 2.

Preferably, the water tank 5 is connected to the sump 4 created in the bottom wall 2a of the washing tank 2 by means of the water recovery pump 8.

Thus, the water recovery pump 8 is connected dynamically on one side with the sump 4 and on the other hand with the water tank 5.

In this way, the washing machine 1 provided with a water tank 5 allows to recover water from at least one wash and / or rinse phase, store at least a part of this water, and then reuse at least a part of it. water during a subsequent phase of an operating cycle or during a following operating cycle implemented by said washing machine 1.

The water tank 5 of the washing machine 1 allows to store all or part of the water of at least one washing and / or rinsing phase so that the water consumption of an operating cycle set to the same extent is reduced practice by said washing machine 1.

Advantageously, a valve 9 is arranged between the water recovery pump 8 and the water tank 5.

Thus, during filling with washing and / or rinsing water of the water tank 5 from the washing tank 2, the water recovery pump 8 is put into operation, and the valve 9 is activated in an open position to put water circulation from the sump 4 to the water reservoir 5.

At the end of the filling with wash and / or rinse water of the water tank 5 from the wash tank 2, the valve 9 is activated in a closed position to retain the water inside the water tank 5 and to prevent a return of water to the sump 4.

The filling with water of the water tank 5 is guaranteed by the operation of the water recovery pump 8, the activation in open position of the valve 9, and is carried out through a first water passage opening 6 created at the bottom of the water tank 5.

The water tank 5 can be filled with water in a chronometric manner. This chronometric mode of filling with water of the water tank 5, is controlled by a period of time of starting the water recovery pump 8 and opening the valve 9 through the control means of the machine for wash 1, such as a microcontroller.

The period of commissioning of the water recovery pump 8 depends on the water flow of said pump 8 and the capacity of the water tank 5.

At the end of water filling of the water tank 5, through the control means of the washing machine 1, such as a microcontroller, the valve 9 mounted in the hydraulic water distribution circuit between the recovery pump of water 8 and the water tank 5 closes, and then the water recovery pump 8 stops.

Advantageously, the water reservoir 5 comprises at least a first internal channeling 10 in fluid communication with at least one internal compartment 11 of the water reservoir 5, and on the other hand with the sump 4 to implement an overflow device and discharge of excess water from the water tank 5 to the sump 4, as shown in Figures 5 to 9.

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Next in the description, said at least one first internal channeling 10 is also called overflow conduit.

The pouring of the excess water from the water tank 5 to the sump 4 is carried out through a first internal pipe 10 of the water tank 5 which extends along the height thereof, said first internal pipe 10 comprising in particular a passage opening of water 12 disposed in the upper part of said water tank 5, and a second water passage opening 7 created in the lower part of the water tank 5.

Likewise, during the emptying of washing and / or rinsing water from the water tank 5 to the washing tank 2, the water recovery pump 8 is kept stopped and the valve 9 is activated in an open position, to circulate gravity water from the water tank 5 to the sump 4.

Thus, the water recovery pump 8, which is stopped, is adapted to allow a flow of water to pass through it when the valve 9 is in an open position so that it does not block the circulation of water by gravity through the hydraulic circuit of water distribution of the washing machine 1, from the water tank 5 to the sump 4.

The valve 9 located between the water recovery pump 8 and the water tank 5 can be controlled electrically, or also by the pressure in the hydraulic water distribution circuit.

Water draining from the water tank 5 is carried out by gravity through the water recovery pump 8 that is stopped, the valve 9 activated in the open position, and the first water passage opening 6 created in the bottom of the water tank 5.

The emptying of water from the water tank 5 to the washing tank 2 is carried out by means of control of the washing machine 1, such as a microcontroller, which control the opening of the valve 9 and the maintenance in condition stopped from the water recovery pump 8, to allow a gravity water flow from the water tank 5 to the wash tank 2, and in particular to the sump 4, through a plurality of water circulation ducts 13a, 13b, 13c, of the water recovery pump 8 and of the valve 9.

Thus, the emptying of water from the water tank 5 to the sump 4 is by gravity and does not require any water dragging by a pump.

The emptying of water from the water tank 5 is implemented by activating the valve 9 in an open position for a predetermined duration, so that the water from the water tank 5 flows by gravity to the sump 4 when the recovery pump Water 8 remains stationary.

The predetermined duration of opening of the valve 9, during the emptying of water from the water tank 5, is controlled by means of controlling the washing machine 1, such as for example by a microcontroller.

The emptying of water from the water tank 5 is controlled by means of preprogrammed control means of the washing machine 1 during the recovery of water for a subsequent phase of an operating cycle and / or for a subsequent operating cycle of said machine 1.

Advantageously, the wash and / or rinse water is fed to the water tank 5, and then stored inside the water tank 5 at the end of a previous operating cycle implemented by the washing machine 1, in particular after a rinsing stage. Then, the wash and / or rinse water stored in the water tank 5 is flushed into the sump 4 at the beginning of a subsequent operating cycle implemented by the washing machine 1, in particular during a washing or washing stage. prewash

In a preferred embodiment, an additional amount of water from an external water network is fed to the sump 4 after the water is emptied from the water reservoir 5 into the sump 4. This filling with additional water is implemented by means of of the valve (not shown) that connects the washing machine 1 with an external water network.

The emptying of water from the water tank 5 can also be controlled by a user, or by means of controlling the washing machine 1, to evacuate the water from the water tank 5 to a sewage network, in particular before or after a prolonged period of non-use of said machine 1.

During the evacuation of water from the water tank 5 to a sewage network:

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- a first water draining phase of the water tank 5 is put into practice by opening the valve 9 for a predetermined duration, so that the water of said water tank 5 flows by gravity in the sump 4, at the same time that the water recovery pump 8 is stopped; and then

- a second phase of evacuation in water from the sump 4 to a sewage network by putting into operation the drain pump 27.

The first water passage opening 6 created in the lower part of the water tank 5 serves on one side to fill said water tank 5 with water and on the other hand to empty said water tank 5.

Preferably, the first water passage opening 6 of the water tank 5 is connected in fluid communication with the valve 9 and is located above the maximum water level in the washing tank 2 when the water in the washing bath and / or rinse inside the wash tank 2 this static.

Advantageously, the water recovery pump 8 is a centrifugal pump.

The specificity of the centrifugal pumps is that they allow the passage of a flow of water through the inside of their body when they are not put into operation.

In this case, the water recovery pump 8 is located below the water tank 5.

Thus, the water recovery pump 8 allows the water tank 5 to be filled with washing and / or rinse water from the washing tank 2.

The positioning of the water recovery pump 8, which is a centrifugal pump, is also related to its design since this water recovery pump 8 can only work when it is primed with water.

On the other hand, the positioning of the water recovery pump 8 below the water tank 5 is also related to the space available inside the frame of the washing machine 1 so that the dimensions of the water tank are optimized. washing 2 of the washing machine 1 and the water tank 5.

In practice, the sump 4 is connected to the water recovery pump 8 by a first water circulation duct 13a. The water recovery pump 8 is connected to the valve 9 by a second water circulation duct 13b. Also, the valve 9 is connected to the water tank 5 by a third water circulation duct 13c.

In this case, the sump 4 comprises a first water passage opening 14 connected to the first water circulation duct 13a, to circulate the water from the wash tank 2 to the water tank 5, and vice versa. The sump 4 also comprises a second water inlet opening 15 connected with a fourth water circulation conduit 13d, to pour the excess water introduced into the water tank 5 into the sump 4. The fourth water circulation conduit 13d It is also connected to the second water passage opening 7 created in the lower part of the water tank 5.

The sump 4 created in the lower part of the wash tank 2, also comprises a water passage opening 30 towards the water circulation pump 3, and a water passage opening towards the drain pump 27.

The water circulation pump 3 is connected at the entrance to a fifth water circulation conduit with the sump 4, and at the exit to at least one water circulation conduit with one or more water spray means 24 arranged in the wash tank 2.

The drain pump 27 is connected at the entrance to a sixth water circulation conduit with the sump 4, and at the exit to a water circulation conduit with a sewage network.

The water distribution hydraulic circuit of the washing machine 1 comprises a first branch. The first branch comprises a water circulation pump 3 for feeding with water at least one water spray means 24 arranged in the washing tank 2.

The hydraulic water distribution circuit of the washing machine 1 also comprises a second branch. The second branch comprises the water recovery pump 8 for feeding with water at least one water storage area of the water tank 5 during the recovery of water from at least one wash and / or rinse phase. The second branch also comprises a valve 9 to prevent a flow of water from the water tank 5 to the washing tank 2 through a water passage opening 6 created in the water tank 5 after feeding with water from the tank of water 5, and to allow a flow of water from the water tank 5 to the washing tank 2 through the water passage opening 6 created in the water tank 5 during the emptying of the water tank 5 towards the wash tank 2.

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The valve 9 of the second branch of the hydraulic water distribution circuit is activated in an open position during the recovery of water from at least one wash and / or rinse phase to allow a flow of water from the wash tank 2 to the water tank 5.

Also, the second branch of the hydraulic water distribution circuit connects the washing tank 2 with a bottom wall of the water tank 5.

Thus, a flow of wash and / or rinse water that enters through the bottom of the water tank 5 during the water supply of the water tank 5 from the wash tank 2 makes it possible to limit the water flow noises during the filling with water from the water tank 5.

In addition, the hydraulic water distribution circuit of the washing machine 1 is simplified while separating the first and second branches of this hydraulic water distribution circuit.

The valve 9 disposed in the second branch of the hydraulic circuit makes it possible to prevent a flow of water from the water tank 5 to the washing tank 2 through a water passage opening 6 created in the lower part of the water tank 5 after the water supply of the water tank 5, circulating a water flow from the water tank 5 to the washing tank 2 through the water passage opening 6 created in the lower part of the water tank 5 during emptying the water tank 5 into the washing tank 2, and circulating a flow of water from the washing tank 2 to the water tank 5 through the water passage opening 6 created in the lower part of the water tank 5 during the recovery of water from at least one wash and / or rinse phase.

On the other hand, the second branch of the hydraulic circuit allows the washing and / or rinsing water to be circulated from the washing tank 2 to the water tank 5 during filling with water of the water tank 5 by means of the pump of water recovery 8 and activating the valve 9 in the open position, and circulating the washing and / or rinsing water from the water tank 5 to the washing tank 2 during the emptying of water from the water tank 5 by gravity by activating valve 9 in the open position and keeping the water recovery pump 8 stopped.

In this way, the second branch of the hydraulic circuit extends from the washing tank 2 to the lower wall of the water tank 5 so that the length of the water circulation ducts 13a, 13b, 13c that connect the tank is minimized of washing 2, the water recovery pump 8, the valve 9 and the water tank 5, and so that the cost of obtaining the washing machine 1 is reduced.

The second branch of the hydraulic water distribution circuit of the washing machine 1 allows a flow of water in one direction from the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, to the water tank 5 through the valve 9 and the water recovery pump 8, and in another direction from the water tank 5 to the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 through the valve 9 and the water recovery pump 8.

Thus, in the event that an area of the second branch of the hydraulic circuit is obstructed by a solid object, for example a residue carried by the water flow, during a water flow in a first direction, a water flow in A second direction through the second branch of the hydraulic circuit may allow the solid object to be dragged into the area of the second branch of the hydraulic circuit.

Advantageously, the water tank 5 comprises an overflow conduit 10 created inside the water tank 5 and placed in fluid communication, on the one hand, with said at least one water storage area of the water tank 5 and, by on the other side, with the sump 4 of the washing tank 2.

Thus, a washing machine 1 of this type having a washing and / or rinsing water tank 5, wherein the hydraulic water distribution circuit of the washing machine 1 comprises an overflow conduit 10 created inside of the water tank 5, and put in fluidic communication with the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, allows to dispense with a water level sensor mounted in the water tank 5 that detects the upper level of water inside the tank of water 5.

In this way, filling with washing and / or rinsing water of the water tank 5 from the washing tank 2 of the washing machine 1 is carried out by activating the water recovery pump 8 without controlling the water level in the inside the water tank 5.

In case the amount of washing and / or rinsing water present in the washing tank 2 of the washing machine 1 is greater than the capacity of the water tank 5, the excess water is returned to the sump 4 of the wash tank 2 by means of the overflow conduit 10 created inside the water tank 5.

In addition, a washing machine 1 of this type that has a wash and / or rinse water tank 5, is less expensive and easier to assemble while avoiding spraying the dishes contained in the

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inside the washing tank 2 by the excess water introduced in the water tank 5, and returned from the water tank 5 to the washing tank 2.

Preferably, the second branch of the water distribution hydraulic circuit comprises a plurality of water circulation conduits 13a, 13b, 13c that connect the sump 4 of the wash tank 2 with the water tank 5, and the overflow conduit 10 of the water tank 5 is connected to the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, by another water circulation duct 13d to pour excess water introduced into the water tank 5 into the sink 4 of the washing tank 2, said other water circulation conduit 13d connecting the overflow conduit 10 of the water reservoir 5 with the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, separated from the plurality of water circulation conduits 13a, 13b, 13c of the second branch of the water distribution hydraulic circuit.

Thus, during the water supply of the water tank 5 from the wash tank 2, a flow of wash and / or rinse water enters through the bottom of the water tank 5 to the level of a water passage opening 12 of the overflow conduit 10. Then, the excess water introduced into the water reservoir 5 is returned from the water reservoir 5 to the washing vessel 2 by means of the water circulation conduit 13d connecting the overflow conduit 10 of the water tank 5 with the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 and which is separated from the plurality of water circulation ducts 13a, 13b, 13c of the second branch of the water distribution hydraulic circuit.

In this case, the hydraulic water distribution circuit comprises a third branch. The third branch comprises a drain pump 27 for evacuating water from the washing tank 2 and / or from the water tank 5 to a sewage network.

The hydraulic water distribution circuit of the washing machine 1 takes advantage of the first branch comprising the water circulation pump 3, to feed with water at least one water spray means 24 disposed in the washing tank 2, comprising the second branch the water recovery pump 8, and the valve 9 to feed the water tank 5 with water during the recovery of water from at least one wash and / or rinse phase, and to empty the water tank water 5 to the sump 4 of the wash tank 2 during the reuse of the stored water or during the emptying of the stored water into an external sewage network, and the third branch comprising the drain pump 27 to evacuate the water retained in the sump 4 and / or stored in the water tank 5 towards an external wastewater network.

The first, second and third branches of the water distribution hydraulic circuit are separated from each other.

The first, second and third branches of the hydraulic water distribution circuit are only connected by the sump 4 of the washing tank 2.

In this way, the water recovery device from at least one wash and / or rinse phase comprising the water tank 5, the water recovery pump 8 and the valve 9 can be deactivated or activated through the control means of the washing machine 1, and in particular of a microcontroller, so that the recovery of wash and / or rinse water is deactivated or activated.

The hydraulic water distribution circuit of a washing machine 1 makes it possible to adapt the operating cycles of said washing machine 1 according to the use or not of the water tank 5 with said washing machine 1.

In addition, the hydraulic water distribution circuit of a dishwashing machine according to the invention is adapted to be implanted in a machine to wash the dishes devoid of a water tank without modifying the first and third branches of the water distribution hydraulic circuit of the dishwashing machine.

The hydraulic water distribution circuit of a washing machine 1 of this type comprises a first branch configured to feed water spray means 24 of the washing tank 2 to clean the crockery pieces arranged in dish baskets of the water tank. washing 2, and a second independent branch configured to feed and empty a water reservoir 5 to recover the wash and / or rinse water from a phase of an operating cycle and to reuse this recovered water during a next phase of an operating cycle or during a following operating cycle.

Thus, the hydraulic water distribution circuit of a washing machine 1 of this type may or may not be equipped with a water distribution means configured to feed water sprinkling means 24 of the washing tank 2, such as for example a water distributor with rotating disk.

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In the case of a washing machine 1 having a hydraulic water distribution circuit comprising a water distribution means, the water distribution means feeds water from the water spray means 24 or alternatively or well simultaneously.

In the case of a washing machine 1 having a hydraulic water distribution circuit devoid of a water distribution means, the water supply of the water spray means 24 can be carried out by a water circulation conduit comprising a water inlet connected at the outlet of the water circulation pump 3 and a plurality of water outlets connected respectively to a water spray means 24.

During the filling with wash and / or rinse water of the water tank 5, the water tank 5 is fed with water through the second branch of the water distribution hydraulic circuit comprising a plurality of water circulation conduits 13a, 13b, 13c that connect the sump 4, the water recovery pump 8, the valve 9, and the water tank 5, so that said water recovery pump 8 feeds with washing water and / or water rinse only said water tank 5.

During the emptying of wash and / or rinse water from the water tank 5, the water tank 5 leaves the water through the second branch of the water distribution hydraulic circuit in the reverse direction, where the recovery pump of water 8 is stopped so that it allows a flow of water to pass from the opening of the valve 9 mounted on the second branch of the hydraulic water distribution circuit.

The water tank 5 comprises an aeration device to allow filling with water and the emptying of water from the water tank 5.

The aeration device of the water tank 5 comprises a first air passage opening 22 disposed above a water passage opening 12 of the overflow conduit 10 created inside the water tank 5.

Also, the water tank 5 comprises a second air passage opening 19 connected to an aeration device of the washing tank 2, wherein the first and second air passage openings 22, 19 are in fluid communication.

Thus, the water tank 5 comprises an overflow conduit 10 that connects at least one water storage area of the water tank 5 with the sump 4 of the wash tank 2, and an aeration device that connects said at least one Water storage area with the washing tank 2, where the overflow conduit 10 and the water tank aeration device 5 are separated and independent.

In this way, the separation of the overflow conduit 10 and the aeration device of the water tank 5 from the washing machine 1, allows to guarantee the adequate flow of an excessly introduced water flow from the water tank 5 to the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, as well as the adequate air flow between the water tank 5 and an aeration device of the washing tank 2 during filling with water of the water tank 5 from the sump 4 of the water tank washing 2, and during the emptying of water from the water tank 5 to the sump 4 of the washing tank 2.

In addition, the overflow conduit 10 of the water tank 5 makes it possible to evacuate by gravity an excess of water introduced into the water tank 5 into the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, after filling with water from the water tank 5 beyond of the maximum permissible water level in the water tank 5.

In practice, at least one air passage opening 19 of the water tank aeration device 5 is connected to an air passage opening 31 of the washing tank 2.

In this case, the first and second air passage openings 22, 19 are connected dynamically by an air circulation duct 21 created inside the water tank 5.

Thus, the air flow between the first and second air passage openings 22, 19 of the water tank aeration device 5 is channeled through the air circulation duct 21 created inside the water tank 5.

Advantageously, the air circulation duct 21 is arranged parallel to the overflow duct 10.

Thus, the positioning of the air circulation duct 21 with respect to the overflow duct 10 makes it possible to minimize the space occupied inside the water reservoir 5 so that the size of said at least one water storage area of the reservoir is optimized of water 5 and the amount of water stored in the water tank 5 is maximized.

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Preferably, the air circulation duct 21 and the overflow duct 10 are separated by a common partition 32 created inside the water reservoir 5.

Thus, the air circulation duct 21 is adjacent to the overflow duct 10 so that the number of partitions inside the water tank 5 is reduced.

In this way, the cost of obtaining the water tank 5 is minimized and its realization is facilitated.

In one embodiment, the first and second air passage openings 22, 19 created in the water tank 5 are in fluid communication with at least a third air passage opening 33 created in the water tank 5 and which It flows into the outside of the water tank 5 and the washing tank 2.

Thus, the water tank 5 comprises an aeration device that allows the washing tank 2, the water tank 5, and the outside of the washing machine 1 to be connected to the air to allow air flow through the passage openings of first, second and third air 22, 19, 33 during the different stages of an operating cycle implemented by the washing machine 1.

In this case and in an absolutely non-limiting manner, the water tank 5 comprises two third air openings 33. The arrangement of the two third air openings 33 in a wall of the water tank 5 makes it possible to increase the air passage section from the water tank 5 towards the outside thereof and the washing tank 2 while maintaining the stiffness of the water tank 5.

Advantageously, said at least one third air opening 33 is circular in order to easily plug it during the verification in production of the water tank tightness 5.

In practice, the second and said at least one third air passage opening 19, 33 are arranged in an internal compartment 34 of the water tank 5, the internal compartment 34 of the water tank 5 being separated from said at least one area water storage of the water tank 5.

Thus, the arrangement of the second and third air passage openings 19, 33 in an internal compartment 34 of the water tank 5 allows these second and third air passage openings 19, 33 to be separated from said at least one storage area of water from the water tank 5 to prevent a flow of water from said at least one water storage area of the water tank 5 through the second and third air passage openings 19, 33 connected respectively with the washing tank 2 and with the outside of the washing tank 2 of the washing machine 1.

In addition, the internal compartment 34 of the water reservoir 5 in which the second and third air passage openings 19, 33 are arranged allows to retain an excess amount of water introduced into the water reservoir 5 and which has overflowed by the first air passage opening 22, in particular by means of at least one lower wall of the internal compartment 34 disposed below the second and third air passage openings 19, 33.

On the other hand, said at least one lower wall of the internal compartment 34 disposed below the second and third air passage openings 19, 33 makes it possible to retain condensates resulting from the circulation of moisture laden air between the washing tank 2 and the aeration device of the water tank 5, of which the internal compartment 34 of the water tank 5 is an integral part.

Advantageously, the water tank 5 comprises a separation wall 35 arranged between the second and said at least one third air passage opening 19, 33 to channel a water flow introduced through the first air passage opening 22 towards the second air passage opening 19 after filling with water of the water tank 5 beyond the water passage opening 12 of the overflow conduit 10.

Thus, in the event that excess water is introduced into the water tank 5 beyond the water passage opening 12 of the overflow conduit 10 and an amount of water is introduced through the first passage opening of air 22, this amount of water can be returned to the washing tank 2 by means of the second air passage opening 19 created in the water tank 5 and in fluid communication with the washing tank 2.

In this way, the amount of water introduced through the first air passage opening 22 is recovered in the washing tank 2 to avoid an overflow of water outside the washing tank 2, and in particular in an area comprising elements of the washing machine 1 powered by electric energy.

In this case, the water reservoir 5 comprises a water retaining wall 36 arranged at least partly below the second air passage opening 19 to channel a water flow introduced through the first air passage opening. 22 towards the second air passage opening 19, and then towards the tank

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washing 2 after filling with water of the water tank 5 beyond the water passage opening 12 of the overflow conduit 10.

Thus ^ in the event that an excess of water is introduced into the water tank 5 beyond the water passage opening 12 of the overflow conduit 10 and that an amount of water is introduced through the first passage opening of air 22, this amount of water is channeled through a water retaining wall 36 arranged at least partly below the second air passage opening 19 to return this amount of water to the wash tank 2 by means of the second air passage opening 19, created in the water tank 5 and in dynamic communication with the washing tank 2.

In this case, an air outlet opening 23 of the air circulation duct 21 flows into the internal compartment 34 of the water tank 5, and in particular between the separation wall 35 separating the second and third air passage openings 19, 33 and the partition 32 separating the overflow duct 10 and the air circulation duct 21 to prevent a flow of water towards said at least one third air passage opening 33 connected floubly with the outside of the washing tank 2, in the event that excess water is introduced into the water tank 5 beyond the water passage opening 12 of the overflow conduit 10, and that an amount of water is introduced through the first opening of air passage 22.

In an embodiment as shown in Figure 8, the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 comprises a water inlet opening 15, connected fluidly with the overflow conduit 10 created inside the water reservoir 5.

Advantageously, the water from a wash and / or rinse bath that feeds the water storage tank 5 for reuse during a subsequent operating cycle implemented by the washing machine 1 is heated water, and preferably the water of the last of the rinse bath, or also called hot rinse bath water.

Advantageously, the hydraulic water distribution circuit comprises a water filtration device 26 located upstream of the water tank 5 to feed the water tank with 5 wash and / or filtered rinse water.

In this case, the water that feeds the water tank 5 is filtered by the filtration device 26, since the filtration device 26 is located upstream of the water recovery pump 8. The water recovery pump 8 takes water from the wash tank 2, in particular from the sump 4, after the passage of said water through the filtration device 26 to feed the water tank 5 with water, to prevent fouling of said water tank 5 and the second branch of the water distribution hydraulic circuit.

In one embodiment, the filtration device 26 is at least partially housed inside the sump 4.

Thus, the filtration device 26 housed in the sump 4 also allows water to be filtered from a wash and / or rinse bath sucked by the water recovery pump 8 and then put into circulation until the water tank 5.

The filtration device 26 may comprise a waste trap, an intermediate filter, and a microfilter.

The hydraulic water distribution circuit of the washing machine 1 comprises the first water circulation duct 13a that connects a first water passage opening 14 of the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 to a water inlet opening 28 of the water recovery pump 8.

Preferably, a water outlet opening 29 of the water recovery pump 8 is connected to a valve 9 by a second water circulation conduit 13b.

Now, with reference to Figures 5 to 7, a storage tank for washing and / or rinsing water of a washing machine, and in particular of a machine for washing dishes, according to the invention will be described.

The water tank 5 comprises at least two internal compartments 11, 16.

A separation wall 17 is created between a first internal compartment 11 and a second internal compartment 16.

In this case, the first and second internal compartments 11, 16 of the water tank 5 are water storage areas created inside the water tank 5.

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In one embodiment, the water tank 5 comprises a first wall in the form of a housing 5a and a second wall in the form of a housing 5b.

Said at least two internal compartments 11, 16 of the water tank 5 are formed by assembling the two shell-shaped walls 5a, 5b of the water tank 5.

The first and second internal pipes 10, 21, as well as the separation wall 17, are created inside the water tank 5 and formed by assembling the two shell-shaped walls 5a, 5b of the water tank 5.

The fixing of the two walls in the form of a housing 5a, 5b of the water tank 5 can be carried out by welding, in particular by means of a mirror welding method by means of heating sheets, or by an ultrasonic welding method, or by a vibration welding method.

Obviously, the way of fixing the two walls in the form of a housing 5a, 5b of the water tank 5 is not at all limiting and can be different, in particular by screwing.

The first and second casing walls 5a, 5b comprise partitions that respectively form a first and a second part of the first and second internal ducts 10, 21 and the separation wall 17.

The partitions of the first and second parts of the first and second internal pipes 10, 21 and of the separation wall 17 created in the first and second shell walls 5a, 5b act together to form the first and second internal pipes 10 , 21 and the separation wall 17.

In this case, the peripheral wall 18 of the water tank 5 comprises a double partition to guarantee the robustness and the tightness of the water tank 5 formed by the assembly of two housing-shaped walls 5a, 5b.

Preferably, the water tank 5 is made of plastic material.

By way of example in no way limiting, the water tank 5 is made of polypropylene, or of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, commonly called ABS.

In this case, the plastic material used is intended to allow welding of the walls in the form of the first and second housing 5a, 5b of the water tank 5.

The plastic material of the water tank 5 is defined so that the cost of obtaining it is minimized, the dimensional stability of the water tank 5 is guaranteed, and the compatibility with the wash and / or rinse water introduced into the water tank 5.

The plastic material may also be loaded, in particular with an antibacterial agent.

In one embodiment, the water tank 5 is thermally and / or acoustically isolated by at least one layer of material (not shown).

The thermal and / or acoustic insulator that covers the water tank 5 may consist of one or more layers made from a single material or several materials, such as bitumen and / or felt.

Obviously, the number of layers of thermal and / or acoustic insulation and the type of thermal and / or acoustic insulation are not at all limiting and may be different.

The thermal insulation of the water tank 5 makes it possible to guarantee a better preservation of the water energy of at least one wash and / or rinse phase for reuse during a subsequent operating cycle implemented by the washing machine.

In one embodiment, the thermal and / or acoustic insulation may be arranged between the water tank 5 and the washing tank 2.

In one embodiment, the water tank 5 can be made of an anti-bacteriological or antifungal material to prevent the formation of a biofilm on the internal walls thereof.

The material used to make the water tank 5 can comprise, for example, silver ions to prevent the formation of a biofilm on the internal walls thereof.

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Preferably, the part or walls that constitute the peripheral contour of said at least one internal compartment 11, 16 of the water tank 5 comprise partitions of partition that extend along the width of the water tank, wherein these partitions of partition that extend following the width of the water tank 5 they are inclined from the bottom up, or vice versa, following the height of the water tank 5.

Thus, after storage of the wash and / or rinse water in the water tank 5 where said water is stagnant, dirt is deposited on the part or walls that constitute the peripheral contour of said at least one internal compartment 11, 16 of the water tank 5. Also, during the emptying of water from the water tank 5 through the first water passage opening 6, the dirt deposited inside said at least one internal compartment 11, 16 of the water tank 5 is carried by the flow of water along the inclined partition walls to prevent a part of this dirt from being retained in the water tank 5.

In this way, the water tank 5 is kept clean by removing the dirt deposited inside it to avoid contamination of the wash and / or rinse water stored in the water tank 5 during a subsequent phase of one operating cycle or during a subsequent operating cycle of the washing machine 1.

In this case, the part or walls that constitute the peripheral contour of said at least one internal compartment 11, 16 of the water tank 5 comprise the peripheral wall 18 of the water tank 5 and the wall 25 created between the first internal compartment 11 and the first internal channeling 10.

A method of controlling the operation of a washing machine for filling with washing water and / or rinsing a water tank according to a method of carrying out the invention will now be described.

The method of controlling the operation of a washing machine 1 comprises a step of filling with washing water and / or rinsing the water tank 5.

The water filling stage of the water tank 5 comprises a cleaning stage of a filtration wall 37 disposed above the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, by starting up the water recovery pump 8 that feeds with water the water tank 5, and by putting into operation the water circulation pump 3 that feeds at least one water spray means 24 with water to spray the filtration wall 37.

Thus, during the water filling stage of the water tank 5 by putting the water recovery pump 8 into operation, the waste retained by a filtration wall 37 disposed above the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, and in particular in the alignment of a lower wall 2a of the washing tank 2, they are carried by a water flow generated by the water circulation pump 3 that feeds at least one water spray means 24 with water 24.

In this way, the waste retained by a filtration wall 37 disposed above the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, is directed towards a filtration device 26 created inside the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, and in particular towards a filter for large residues of the filtering device 26 of the sump 4.

The method thus allows, in the course of a stage of filling with water of a reservoir of washing and / or rinsing water 5, to clean the filtration wall 37 arranged above the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, and to avoid the deposit of waste on it.

Preferably, during the cleaning stage of the filtration wall 37 by putting the water recovery pump 8 into operation, and the water circulation pump 3, the water circulation pump 3 generates a flow of reduced water.

Thus, during the cleaning stage of the filtration wall 37 by putting the water recovery pump 8 into operation, and the water circulation pump 3, the water circulation pump 3 generates a flow of reduced water to spray the crockery pieces arranged inside the washing tank 2 to a minimum while guaranteeing a spray of the filtration wall 37.

In addition, the cooling of the dishware pieces arranged inside the washing tank 2 is limited, in particular when the water filling stage of the water tank 5 is implemented after a hot rinse phase of a cycle of operation of the washing machine 1, since the pieces of crockery receive sprinkling weakly.

In this way, the drying performance of the crockery pieces arranged inside the washing tank 2 is guaranteed while guaranteeing the cleaning of the filtration wall 37, by putting into operation the circulation pump of 3 water for a reduced water flow.

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Preferably, the water pressure generated during commissioning of the water circulation pump 3 for a reduced water flow, during the cleaning stage of the filtration wall 37, is lower than the water pressure generated during commissioning of the water circulation pump 3 for a nominal water flow, during a washing and / or rinsing phase of an operating cycle of the washing machine 1.

This decrease in the water pressure generated during the commissioning of the water circulation pump 3, during the cleaning stage of the filtration wall 37, causes a decrease in the rotation speed of a spray windlass. 24, and a decrease in spray height from the nozzles of a spray medium 24.

In practice, the evacuation of a reduced water flow by the water circulation pump 3 in the course of the cleaning stage of the filtration wall 37, can be carried out by means of a periodic feeding with electric energy of the pump of water circulation 3.

Advantageously, during the cleaning stage of the filtration wall 37, the method comprises a step of detecting a water level in the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 to stop the water circulation pump 3 as soon as a predetermined water level is reached in the sump 4 of the wash tank 2.

Thus, the water circulation pump 3 is put into operation as soon as the water level in the washing tank 2 is higher than the predetermined water level in the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 to spray the filtration wall 37. Likewise, the water circulation pump 3 stops as soon as the predetermined water level is reached in the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 to avoid lowering the water recovery pump 8. The stopping of the water circulation pump 3 as soon as the predetermined water level in the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 is reached, it also allows stopping the spraying of the pieces of crockery arranged inside the washing tank 2 to limit its cooling and impair the performance of drying them.

In addition, spraying the filtration wall 37 by putting the water circulation pump 3 into operation during the cleaning stage prevents debris from being deposited on the filtration wall 37 while the water level drops in the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, due to the filling with water of the water tank 5 by starting the water recovery pump 8, and in particular when the water level drops below the filtration wall 37 arranged above the sump 4 of the wash tank 2.

On the other hand, after stopping the water circulation pump 3, the amount of water consumed by the water circulation pump 3 and evacuated to the first branch of the water distribution hydraulic circuit, in particular to at least one medium water spray 24, returns to the sump 4 so that the water level inside the sump 4 is raised, and a water recovery pump 8 is prevented from falling.

In practice, the stage of detecting a water level in the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 is implemented by means of a water level sensor 38.

In this case, the water level sensor 38 is a float disposed inside the sump 4, the float being associated with a magnetic detector disposed along a vertical wall of the sump 4.

Obviously, the type of water level sensor is not at all limiting and may be different, for example a pressure switch.

Advantageously, the predetermined water level in the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 is located below the filtration wall 37 following the height of the washing machine 1.

Advantageously, the method comprises a stopping stage of the water circulation pump 3, after a predetermined duration has elapsed to avoid lowering the water recovery pump 8, in case of failure of the detection of the predetermined water level in the sump 4 of the wash tank 2.

Thus, the duration of the spray wall spray 37 by putting the water circulation pump 3 into operation during the cleaning stage is limited in case of failure of the water level sensor 38 to avoid lowering the water recovery pump 8 that feeds the water tank with water 5.

The water filling stage comprises a first stage of feeding with washing and / or rinsing water of the water tank 5 by starting the water recovery pump 8.

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Advantageously, the cleaning stage of the filtration wall 37 is implemented in the course of the first stage of feeding with washing water and / or rinsing of the water tank 5 by putting the recovery pump into operation. water 8.

In one embodiment, the first stage of feeding with water from the water tank 5 is implemented up to a water level in the water tank 5, which exceeds the maximum permissible water level in the water tank 5, and An excess of water introduced into the water tank 5 is evacuated by gravity into the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 by means of the overflow conduit 10.

Thus, the water filling stage of the water tank 5 can be implemented without having to resort to a water level sensor disposed in the water tank 5 that detects a higher level of water in the water tank 5 so that the costs of obtaining the washing machine 1 are minimized and the assembly of the water tank 5 in the washing machine 1 is simplified avoiding an electrical connection between a water level sensor and the control unit of the washing machine one.

In practice, during the first stage of feeding with water from the water tank 5, the water recovery pump 8 is put into operation for a predetermined duration exceeding the duration of filling with water of said at least one compartment internal 11, 16 of the water tank 5, so that an amount of water circulates through the overflow conduit 10 from said at least one internal compartment 11, 16 of the water tank 5 to the sump 4 of the washing tank 2.

Thus, the water tank 5 is filled to its maximum permissible water level, while diluting and evacuating any dirt from the water tank 5 to the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 by means of the overflow conduit 10 .

In one embodiment, after the predetermined duration of commissioning of the water recovery pump 8, during the first stage of feeding with water from the water tank 5, the method comprises a stage of emptying the water contained in the sump 4 of the wash tank 2 towards a sewage network.

Thus, the dirt returned from the water tank 5 to the sump 4 of the washing tank 2 by means of the overflow conduit 10 is evacuated to a sewage network, in particular by means of the drain pump 27.

In practice, in the course of the water filling stage of the water tank 5, the filling with washing and / or rinsing water of the water tank 5 from the sump 4 of the washing tank 2, is placed in practiced through a water passage opening 6 created in the lower part of the water tank 5, and the evacuation of an excess of washing and / or rinsing water from the water tank 5 to the washing tank 2 is implemented through a water passage opening 12 created in the upper part of the water tank 5.

Preferably, the commissioning of the water recovery pump 8 is preceded by an activation in an open position of a valve 9, the valve 9 being mounted on the hydraulic water distribution circuit between the water recovery pump 8 and the water tank 5.

Advantageously, between the activation in the open position of the valve 9 and the start-up of the water recovery pump 8, a waiting phase is carried out to evacuate the air that may be retained inside the recovery pump of water 8.

By way of example in no way at all, the waiting phase between the activation in the open position of the valve 9 and the start-up of the water recovery pump 8 is of the order of two seconds.

Advantageously, the water filling stage of the water tank 5 is preceded by a water filtration stage of a wash and / or rinse bath contained in the wash tank 2.

Thus, the water recovery pump 8 draws water from the washing tank 2, in particular from the sump 4, after the filtration of said water to feed the water tank 5 with water to prevent fouling of the water tank 5 and of the second branch of the water distribution hydraulic circuit of the washing machine 1.

The method also comprises a stage of evacuation of washing water and / or rinsing of the water tank 5 towards the washing tank 2 by gravity, through the valve 9 activated in the open position and of said water recovery pump 8 It stays stationary.

Thus, the method of controlling the operation of the washing machine 1 provided with a water tank 5 allows to recover water from at least one phase of washing and / or rinsing, storing at least a part of this water, and then reusing it at less a part of this water in the course of a subsequent phase of a cycle of

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operation or during a subsequent operating cycle implemented by said washing machine 1.

The water tank 5 of the washing machine 1 allows to store all or part of the water of at least one washing and / or rinsing phase so that the water consumption of an operating cycle set to the same extent is reduced practice by said washing machine 1.

The hydraulic water distribution circuit takes advantage of a water recovery pump 8 configured to feed the water tank 5 with water during the recovery of water from at least one wash and / or rinse phase in addition to the water circulation pump. water 3 configured to feed with water at least one water spray means 24 in the wash tank 2.

The separation of the water distribution hydraulic circuit in a first branch comprising the water circulation pump 3 and in a second branch comprising the water recovery pump 8 allows water to circulate in the first and second branches with a large flexibility.

In one embodiment, the water evacuation stage of the water tank 5 is followed by a water reuse stage in the course of a washing and / or rinsing phase of an operating cycle implemented by the machine. to wash 1.

During the water reuse stage, the water spray means 24 of the wash tank 2 are fed with water by means of the water circulation pump 3 and a water distribution means.

Then, the water reuse stage is followed by a stage of water draining from the wash tank 2 into a sewage network by means of a drain pump 27.

After the water storage stage in the water tank 5, this water can be evacuated to a sewage network if the shelf life of this water in said water tank has exceeded a limit duration.

The emptying of the water tank 5 can be controlled by a user, or by means of control of the washing machine 1 to evacuate the water from the water tank 5 to a sewage network, in particular before or after a prolonged period of no use of washing machine 1.

On the other hand, the water contained in the washing tank 2 can be evacuated to a sewage network directly in case the user does not wish to store this water in the water tank 5 for reuse of it during a subsequent phase of an operating cycle in progress or during a phase of a following operating cycle implemented by the washing machine 1, or also in the event that control means of the washing machine 1 detect a level of dirt that is too important in water from at least one wash and / or rinse bath.

The washing machine 1 comprises a control unit (not shown), said control unit comprising at least one electronic card. Said at least one electronic card comprises at least one microcontroller suitable for implementing predetermined operating cycles of the washing machine 1. Thus, the control unit controls in particular the water circulation pump 3, the water recovery pump 8, the drain pump 27, the valve 9 and the water supply valve of the network so that washing and / or rinsing water is recovered from the washing tank 2 in the water tank 5 in the course of of an operating cycle, and the amount of water stored in the water tank 5 is reused in the course of a subsequent phase of an operating cycle or during a subsequent operating cycle, as described above.

Thanks to the present invention, during the water filling stage of the water tank by putting the water recovery pump into operation, the residues retained by a filtration wall arranged above a sink of the washing tank, and in particular in the alignment of a lower wall of the washing tank, they are carried by a water flow generated by the water circulation pump that feeds at least one water spray medium with water.

In this way, the residues retained by a filtration wall disposed above the sink of the washing tank are directed towards a filtration device created inside the sink of the washing tank, and in particular towards a filter for large waste from the sump filter device.

The method thus allows, in the course of a stage of filling with water of a reservoir of washing and / or rinsing water, to clean the filtration wall disposed above the sink of the washing tank and avoid the deposit of waste on the same.

Obviously, numerous modifications can be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the invention.

Thus, the washing machine can be a machine for washing dishes, a machine for washing clothes, or a machine for washing and drying clothes.

Claims (4)

10 15 2. 20 3. 25 Four. 30 5. 35 6. 40 7. Four. Five 8. Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine (1) comprising a washing tank (2), a washing and / or rinsing water tank (5), a hydraulic water distribution circuit, wherein said circuit Water distribution hydraulic connects said washing tank (2) of said washing machine (1) with said water tank (5), said method comprising a step of filling with washing water and / or rinsing of said water tank. water (5), characterized in that the water filling stage of said water tank (5) comprises a step of cleaning a filtration wall (37) disposed above a sump (4) of said washing tank (2) ) by putting into operation a water recovery pump (8) that feeds said water tank with water (5) and by putting into operation a water circulation pump (3) that feeds at least one water with water spray means (24) for spraying said filtration wall (37) . Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that in the course of the cleaning stage of said filtration wall (37) by putting into operation said water recovery pump (8 ) and of said water circulation pump (3), said water circulation pump (3) generates a reduced water flow. Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in the course of the cleaning stage of said filtration wall (37), said method comprises a step of detecting a level of water in said sump (4) of said wash tank (2) to stop said water circulation pump (3) as soon as a predetermined water level is reached in said sump (4) of said wash tank (2). Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the step of detecting a water level in said sump (4) of said washing tank (2) is implemented by means of a sensor water level (38). Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the predetermined water level in said sump (4) of said washing tank (2) is located below said filtration wall (37) following the height of the washing machine (1). Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that said method comprises a step of stopping said water circulation pump (3) after a predetermined duration has elapsed to avoid lower said water recovery pump (8) in case of failure to detect the predetermined water level in said sump (4) of said washing tank (2). Method of controlling the operation of a washing machine (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the cleaning stage of said filtration wall (37) is implemented in the course of a first feeding stage with washing and / or rinsing water of said water tank (5) by starting said water recovery pump (8). Washing machine (1), characterized in that it comprises a control unit adapted to implement the control method according to any one of claims 1 to 7. fifty