JP2004236846A - Automatic washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To keep cleanliness by removing dirt such as remaining detergent by accelerating peeling of the dirt before it becomes difficult to remove as the result of adhering to a washing and spin-drying tub and an outer tub. <P>SOLUTION: Whenever a series of washing operation is performed, the number of using times is counted up (S11). When it amounts to the number of designated times (ten times, for example) (Yes as S10), a first rinsing process for rinsing in stored water ordinarily is changed to water-pouring and rinsing (S14). In water-pouring and rinsing, water is poured into the washing and dehydrating tub so as to keep the highest water level among washing water levels or levels higher than this. Thus, the dirt adhering to the neighborhood of the position of a washing water level in the state of a belt in the outer tub and the washing and spin-drying tub is surely hidden underwater, and its separation is accelerated by a water stream. The separated dirt is collected by a lint filter or ejected to the outside of the machine through an overflown water port with water. Thus, accumulation of the dirt is reduced. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a fully automatic washing machine.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In a fully automatic washing machine, mold that is usually invisible to the user and is generated on the outer peripheral surface of the washing / dewatering tub, the inner peripheral surface of the outer tub, or the back surface of the pulsator has recently been regarded as a problem. These molds adhere to the laundry and contaminate the laundry, cause the laundry to have an unpleasant odor, cause the washing machine to emit an unpleasant odor, and are also suspected to be a cause of diseases such as allergic dermatitis. Has been done. In the first place, mold is easily generated in the above-mentioned area in a washing machine because the detergent scum in which the detergent and dirt are combined by washing is easily attached, and since it is difficult to dry, the moisture is much. This is because the environment is easy to breed.
[0003]
In recent years, various tank cleaning detergents such as chlorine-based ones are also on the market, and it is recommended to sometimes use such detergents to wash the bath itself. Of course, a certain degree of effect can be obtained by performing tub washing in an operation course for washing laundry in general, but the operation course and the operation course so that the laundry can be appropriately washed originally can be obtained. Since various parameters are determined, it is not always possible to sufficiently remove dirt from the tank. Therefore, a washing machine provided with a tub cleaning course for removing dirt from the tub itself has been proposed.
[0004]
For example, in the washing machine described in Patent Literature 1, when a tub washing course is selected, water is supplied up to a tub washing water level higher than a normal washing water level, and the pulsator is rotated in that state, whereby a machine using a water flow is provided. The dirt such as mold which stuck to the inner peripheral surface of the outer tub or the outer peripheral surface of the washing / dehydrating tub is removed by a natural force. The dirt that separates and floats on the water is discharged from the overflow port together with the water. Generally, detergent scum is particularly likely to adhere to the vicinity of the washing water level, so that molds using this as a nutrient source often occur at the same position. Therefore, if the tub washing water level is set at a position higher than the washing water level as described above, the dirt adhering in the vicinity of the position of the washing water level is always immersed in the cleaning liquid at the time of washing the tub, and the remaining unwashed dirt is prevented. Can be expected.
[0005]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-2000-308793 (paragraphs 0009 and 0010)
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
Naturally, a coin-type fully automatic washing machine mainly installed in a coin landry store has a remarkably large number of times of use as compared with a fully automatic washing machine used in a general household. As described above, generally, detergent scum generated during washing adheres particularly in the form of a band near the surface of water stored in a washing / dewatering tub for washing. In many cases, the coin-type fully automatic washing machine described above is set to always operate at the highest washing water level (high water level) regardless of the amount of laundry, so that the inside of the outer tub or the In particular, laundry scum easily adheres to the outside of the dewatering tub near the high water level, and the detergent slag accumulates quickly due to the high frequency of use. As long as the stains such as detergent scum adhered do not become too severe, they can be relatively easily peeled off with a commercially available tub cleaning detergent. Will also be difficult to remove. Therefore, in order to keep the coin-type fully automatic washing machine clean, it is necessary to wash the tub quite frequently.
[0007]
However, it is difficult to visually determine how dirty the tank is, and in many cases, the tank cleaning operation is performed in a state where the dirt has adhered considerably, and the tank cleaning as described above is performed. The actual situation is that the effects of driving are not sufficiently exhibited. In addition, performing tank cleaning at a high frequency is a heavy burden on the owner or manager of the coin land store (hereinafter, collectively referred to as the owner), and it is not possible for customers to use the tank during the tank cleaning period. Therefore, the owner loses the profit accordingly.
[0008]
Although the above-described situation is remarkable in a coin-type fully automatic washing machine, the same can be said to a certain extent in a fully automatic washing machine used in general households. That is, in a fully automatic washing machine of a general household, the washing water level changes in a plurality of stages according to the amount of the laundry, but the same washing water level is always used when almost the same amount of laundry is washed. In this case, the operation is performed at high frequency, so that the laundry scum easily adheres to the belt in the vicinity of the washing water level. If the bath cleaning is neglected without noticing such a state, the deposited detergent residue sticks and cannot be easily removed even by using the bath cleaning detergent.
[0009]
By the way, a coin-type fully automatic washing machine is provided with a switch for changing the setting of the operation program so that the owner can switch the usage fee. Of course, it is inconvenient if a person other than the owner changes the setting without permission, and further, from the need for security, such switches are mounted on a control board covered with a cover fixed with screws. I have. In addition, in coin-type fully automatic washing machines, special operations other than the operation of sequentially executing a series of normal steps, such as execution of only drainage and execution of only rotation of the pulsator, are performed for the purpose of component failure diagnosis and test operation. An instruction switch is provided.
[0010]
The former setting change switch needs to hold the setting state before the power is cut off even if the power is cut off for a certain period of time, for example, due to a power failure or a power plug being unplugged. Therefore, an alternate type (or snap type) switch such as a dip switch is usually used. On the other hand, the latter special operation instruction switch does not cause a substantial problem even if the power is temporarily shut off and the instruction content disappears. Therefore, a momentary switch (also called a push button switch) such as a tact switch is usually used.
[0011]
Conventionally, many coin-type fully automatic washing machines are automatically operated only by a certain predetermined procedure, such as always setting a high water level without setting a water level according to the amount of laundry. . However, in recent years, there has been an increasing demand for owners to easily change the setting of an operation program due to the sophistication of general washing machines and increased awareness of water and power savings. Therefore, it is preferable that such a device having a relatively high frequency of setting change can be operated without troublesome work such as removing a cover. On the other hand, from the point of view of crime prevention and security, it is necessary to avoid that these settings can be easily changed by the user.
[0012]
The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, and a first object of the present invention is to prevent accumulation of dirt such as detergent scum on an outer tub or a washing / dehydrating tub, and to provide a long-lasting device. An object of the present invention is to provide a fully automatic washing machine capable of maintaining cleanliness over a period.
[0013]
It is a second object of the present invention to provide a fully automatic washing machine capable of relatively easily changing the setting of an operation program as required while ensuring security and safety.
[0014]
[Means for Solving the Problems and Effects]
A first invention made to achieve the first object includes a washing and dewatering tub rotatably disposed in an outer tub, and a water supply means for supplying water to the washing and dewatering tub, In a fully automatic washing machine for storing a predetermined amount of water in a washing and dewatering tub and washing laundry contained in the washing and dewatering tub,
a) instruction means for instructing the start of the washing operation;
b) receiving the instruction from the instruction means, and at a predetermined frequency, replacing the normal first washing course, to a position higher than the normal washing water level or a position higher than the highest washing water level; An operation control means for executing a second washing course also serving as a tub washing, including a washing step and / or a rinsing step of supplying water according to
It is characterized by having.
[0015]
In the fully automatic washing machine according to the first invention, under the control of the operation control means, water is supplied to the washing dehydration tub to a predetermined washing water level by the water supply means, usually as a first washing course, and the water is supplied. Perform washing and rinsing of the laundry in the stored state. Here, the predetermined washing water level may fluctuate according to the amount of the laundry, or may be the same (that is, fixed) regardless of the amount of the laundry. Normally, the control is performed as described above, but the operation control means performs different water supply control at a predetermined frequency. That is, the washing process is performed in such a state that water is supplied to a position higher than the normal washing water level or a position higher than the highest washing water level among a plurality of prepared washing water levels as the second washing course. Alternatively, at least one of the rinsing steps is performed.
[0016]
Thereby, usually, when washing is performed easily in a state where water is stored up to a predetermined washing water level, dirt such as detergent residue attached near the position of the water level is supplied to a high position as described above. Submerges almost completely when submerged. Therefore, the separation of such dirt is promoted mainly by the force of the water flow, and when the water is discharged outside the machine, the dirt is discharged together. By appropriately setting the frequency at which the operation in the second washing course is performed, it is possible to effectively remove such dirt before the dirt such as detergent slag becomes heavier and harder to remove.
[0017]
Therefore, according to the fully automatic washing machine of the first invention, it is very useful to keep the outer tub and the washing / dewatering tub clean. In addition, since the degree of dirt can be reduced even if the adhered dirt cannot be completely removed, the frequency of performing the tank cleaning using the cleaning liquid for the tank can be reduced, or such a time of cleaning the tank can be reduced. It is possible to effectively exert a stain release action. Thereby, cleanliness of the outer tub and the washing / dewatering tub can be maintained, and the burden of washing the tub can be reduced. Further, in the coin-type fully automatic washing machine, it is possible to increase the use opportunities of the customer, which contributes to securing the profit of the owner.
[0018]
In the fully automatic washing machine according to the first invention, the “predetermined frequency” roughly has two meanings. That is, one is the frequency in the number of uses, and the other is the frequency in the temporal sense. As one embodiment of the first invention in the case of the former, the operation control means includes counting means for counting the number of times of operation of the washing machine, the number of times of operation of a specific washing course, or the number of times of operation corresponding thereto, When the count value of the means reaches a predetermined value, the second washing course may be executed.
[0019]
According to this configuration, for example, after the operation by the first washing course is performed a predetermined number of times, when the next start of the washing operation is instructed, the operation control unit automatically performs the operation by the second washing course. Execute. Therefore, for example, once every ten times, or once every twenty times, an operation is performed such that dirt such as detergent scum adhering to the tank is submerged every time it is used. You don't have to. Such a configuration is particularly suitable for a frequently used coin-type fully automatic washing machine.
[0020]
On the other hand, as an embodiment taking into account the frequency in terms of time, a time element or time that is not directly related to the number of times of use, such as every time a predetermined date and time elapses, every time a predetermined date and time comes, etc. A configuration may be adopted in which the timing for executing the second washing course is determined based on the schedule. Specifically, in a washing machine that is used quite frequently, such as a washing machine installed in a coin landry store, if it is not open for 24 hours, it is the first washing operation every morning, or if it is open for 24 hours, for example, A control is conceivable in which the first washing course is executed instead of the first washing course and the second washing course is executed during the first washing operation after 8:00 in the morning. Further, in a fully automatic washing machine of a general household, for example, every week, the operation by the second washing course is performed on the same day of the week, and for example, if the washing is not performed on that day, the second washing course is performed at the first washing thereafter. It is only necessary to take appropriate measures such as executing the washing course.
[0021]
In the fully automatic washing machine according to the first invention, the “position higher than the normal washing water level or the position higher than the highest washing water level” in the second washing course can be appropriately determined. Naturally, it is desirable to determine the width in consideration of the width of a band of dirt such as detergent residue attached to the dehydration tank. Preferably, the fully automatic washing machine according to the first invention includes an overflow port for discharging water in the outer tub to the outside of the outer tub at a position higher than the highest washing water level in the outer tub, The operation control means may be configured to perform a water injection rinsing step of overflowing water from the overflow port in the second washing course.
[0022]
According to this configuration, at the time of rinsing with water, the water level rises to the position of the overflow port provided at a position higher than the position of the washing water level, so that almost all the dirt attached to the tank is removed by the water. The separation is promoted by the water flow generated by immersion and stirring. More preferably, the dirt that separates and floats in the water is often light, so that the dirt is quickly discharged out of the machine on the flow of water discharged from the overflow port to the outside of the machine. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the adhesion of the dirt to the laundry and the re-adhesion to the tub.
[0023]
However, at the time of executing the second washing course, at least more water is used than at the time of executing the first washing course. In addition, for a user who maintains the cleanliness by frequently cleaning the tub using the tub cleaning detergent, the operation is automatically performed by the second washing course instead of the first washing course. You may not need to. Therefore, a fully automatic washing machine according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a configuration in which the operation control unit includes an operation unit for externally switching whether or not to operate the second washing course instead of the first washing course. Then, it is more preferable.
[0024]
According to this configuration, the owner of the coin land store or the user of the washing machine can select whether to perform the second washing course or only the first washing course as necessary. Can be.
[0025]
A second invention made to achieve the second object is a fully automatic washing machine having operation control means for automatically controlling a series of steps such as washing, rinsing, and dehydration.
Operation key means that is operated on a daily basis to perform various instructions related to washing, and switch means provided at a position different from the operation key means for performing special control, the switch means An alternate type first switch means that is installed at a position where it cannot be easily operated from the outside and mechanically maintains both ON and OFF states according to an external operation force, and when an external operation force is received And a second switch means of a momentary type whose ON / OFF state changes only.
An instruction for a special operation other than an automatic operation for executing a series of steps is given by the second switch means, while turning on / off of the first switch means, operation of the second switch means and the operation key It is characterized in that the setting of the operation program in the operation control means is changed by a combination with the operation of the means.
[0026]
In the fully automatic washing machine according to the second aspect of the present invention, a combination of the operation of the second switch means for giving an instruction of a special operation by itself and the operation of the operation key means for giving various instructions related to the washing is usually provided. Thereby, a part of the setting change of the operation program in the operation control means can be performed. Therefore, if a setting change that is particularly requested or highly likely to be changed can be dealt with by a combination of the above operations instead of switching the first switch means on and off, a comparison can be made as necessary. The setting can be easily changed. Further, the operation key means is provided at a position where it is easy to operate, but the second switch means may be provided at a position where it is difficult to operate. And safety can be ensured.
[0027]
Furthermore, even in a case where the number of items to be changed is increased and it is difficult to add the first switch means, according to the fully automatic washing machine according to the second invention, for example, the microcomputer of the operation control means Only by modifying the control program, it is possible to easily increase the number of setting change items. Therefore, there is no need to add components, which contributes to a reduction in manufacturing costs.
[0028]
The fully automatic washing machine according to the second aspect of the present invention is a coin-type fully automatic washing machine that performs a washing operation upon payment of a fee by a user, wherein the first switch means is covered with a protective cover that is not easily removed. Configuration is particularly useful. According to this configuration, while a specific person such as the owner of the coin land store where the washing machine is installed can change the setting of the driving program relatively easily, a customer who is a user of the washing machine can change such setting. Since it can be prevented from being performed, management and operation of the washing machine and the store become easier.
[0029]
As a specific method of changing the setting of the operation program by a combination of the operation of the second switch means and the operation of the operation key means, an item to be changed according to the number of times of operation of the second switch means is selected. Then, the setting of the item can be changed according to the length of operation time or the number of operations of the operation key means. According to this configuration, it is possible to cope with not only the selection of two types (for example, the presence or absence of setting) but also the selection of three or more types for the same setting item of the operation program.
[0030]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, as one embodiment of the present invention, a coin-type fully automatic washing machine mainly installed in a coin land store will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0031]
FIG. 1 is a side longitudinal sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the fully automatic washing machine of the present embodiment. In FIG. 1, a bottomed cylindrical outer tank 2 is swingably supported by a plurality of hanging rods 3 inside an outer box 1, whereby vibration of the outer tank 2 is transmitted to the outer box 1. Has been prevented. The clothing input port opened on the upper surface of the outer box 1 can be opened and closed by the upper lid 4. Inside the outer tub 2, a washing and dewatering tub 5 having a large number of water passage holes 6 on a peripheral wall surface is rotatably supported around a support shaft 7 fixed to the center of the lower surface of the bottom wall. A pulsator 8 is provided at the inner bottom of the washing and dewatering tub 5 so as to be rotatable about an inner shaft 9 fitted on the support shaft 7.
[0032]
A motor 10 is mounted on the lower surface of the bottom wall of the outer tub 2, and the rotational power of the motor 10 is driven by a power transmission mechanism 11 including a small pulley, a V-belt, a large pulley fixed to the motor shaft, and a torque motor 13. Is transmitted to the support shaft 7 and the inner shaft 9 via the clutch mechanism 12. During the washing operation and the rinsing operation, the clutch mechanism 12 releases the connection between the power transmission mechanism 11 and the support shaft 7 in accordance with the operation of the torque motor 13, and moves the pulsator 8 via the inner shaft 9 in one or both directions. At low speed. On the other hand, during the spin-drying operation, the clutch mechanism 12 connects the power transmission mechanism 11, the support shaft 7 and the inner shaft 9, and rotates the washing spin-drying tub 5 and the pulsator 8 in one direction at a high speed.
[0033]
A water supply pipe 14 connected to an external water tap is provided at the upper rear of the outer box 1. When a water supply valve 15 provided in the middle of the water supply pipe 14 is opened, water introduced through the water supply pipe 14 is opened. Is injected into the washing and dewatering tub 5 from the water inlet 16. On the other hand, a drain port 17 is provided at the bottom of the outer tub 2, and a conduit of a drain pipe 18 connected to the drain port 17 is opened and closed by a drain valve 19. The opening / closing operation of the drain valve 19 is interlocked with the operation of the clutch mechanism 12 (that is, the operation of the torque motor 13), and the drain valve 19 is closed when the pulsator 8 is separated from the washing / dewatering tub 5 and can rotate independently. As a result, water can be stored in the outer tub 2 and the drain valve 19 is opened when the pulsator 8 and the washing / dewatering tub 5 can rotate integrally.
[0034]
An overflow port 20 is provided at an upper portion of the inner wall surface of the outer tub 2, and the overflow port 20 is connected to a drain pipe 18 downstream of a drain valve 19 by an overflow pipe 21. As will be described in detail later, the overflow port 20 is provided at a position higher than the highest water level in the washing water level. Thus, even if the water supply to the outer tub 2 is continued with the drain valve 19 closed, the water that has reached the overflow port 20 is discharged out of the machine via the overflow pipe 21 and the drain pipe 18. Therefore, it does not overflow the outside of the machine beyond the upper end of the outer tank 2. An air trap 22 is formed at the bottom of the outer tub 2, and the air trap 22 is connected to a water level sensor 24 as a pressure sensor via a pressure hose 23 extending upward. By detecting the air pressure in the pressure hose 23 by the water level sensor 24, the water level of the water stored in the outer tub 2 is indirectly detected.
[0035]
On the wall near the bottom of the outer tub 2, an electrolyzed water generating unit 25 provided with a plurality of plate-like electrolysis electrodes 27 inside the electrolysis chamber 26 for electrolyzing water stored in the outer tub 2. Is provided. When a predetermined voltage is applied between the electrodes 27 for electrolysis while the electrodes 27 for electrolysis are submerged in water, electrolyzed water containing a chlorine-containing substance such as hypochlorous acid and active oxygen species is generated. This electrolyzed water has a disinfecting action like the chlorine bleach, and in the fully automatic washing machine of this embodiment, this disinfecting action is used at the time of the second (last) rinsing step as described later. are doing.
[0036]
A control box 28 accommodating a control board 40 and a coin insertion box, which will be described later, is provided at the rear of the upper surface of the outer box 1. An operation unit 29a provided with a coin insertion slot, a tank cleaning key, etc. An operation panel 29 including a 7-segment numeric display 29b1 for displaying a situation and the like and a display unit 29b including a plurality of LED displays 29b2, and a buzzer 29c for notifying the user of driving end or warning is provided. . On the rear side of the control box 28, a protective cover 1a is detachably provided. In order to prevent a person other than the owner of the coin landry store from removing the protective cover 1a without permission, the protective cover 1a is screwed with a screw having a special shape which cannot be removed with a tool such as a normal screwdriver.
[0037]
FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the upper rear surface of the fully automatic washing machine with the protective cover 1a removed. When the protective cover 1a is removed, the control board 40 mounted in the control box 28 is exposed. Various electronic components such as a microcomputer constituting the control unit 30 described later are mounted on the control board 40. One of the electronic components is a plurality of switches as switches for changing the setting of an operation program. And a tact switch 42 is provided as a mode changeover switch. When the protective cover 1a is mounted, the dip switch 41 is completely hidden and cannot be operated, but the tact switch 42 is looking through the hole 1b formed in the protective cover 1a. For this reason, the owner can insert a slender tool such as a screwdriver into the hole 1b and press the tact switch 42 for operation.
[0038]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the electric system of the fully automatic washing machine of the present embodiment. At the center of the control, a control unit 30 including a microcomputer including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, a timer, and the like is installed. The control unit 30 receives an operation signal from the operation unit 29a including the tank cleaning key 29a1, a detection signal for detecting the opening / closing of the upper lid 4 from the open / close detection switch 4a, and a water level sensor 24 from the water level sensor 24 to the level of the stored water in the outer tank 2. In response to the water level detection signal, a coin detection signal for detecting that a predetermined amount of coins (charge) has been inserted from the coin detection unit 32 is input, while the key input reception state or driving is displayed on the display unit 29b. It outputs a display control signal for monitoring the state and a sound signal to the buzzer 29c. The control unit 30 controls the operation of the motor 10, the torque motor 13, and the water supply valve 15 via the load driving unit 31. Further, the control unit 30 controls the operation of the electrolysis water generation unit 25 based on a signal from the current detection unit 25b. The energizing circuit 25a is controlled while monitoring the current flowing to 27. Furthermore, a setting signal corresponding to the on / off state of the DIP switch 41 and an on / off signal of the tact switch 42 for mode switching are input to the control unit 30. These functions will be described later in detail. The control unit 30 functionally includes a counter 30a in order to perform a characteristic processing operation described later.
[0039]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a basic operation procedure performed under the control of the control unit 30 in the fully automatic washing machine of the present embodiment. That is, when the user stores the laundry in the washing / dewatering tub 5, puts in a predetermined amount of detergent, closes the upper cover 4, and puts a predetermined charge into a coin insertion box (not shown), the coin detection unit 32 detects coins. Upon receiving the signal and the confirmation signal from the open / close detection switch 4a that the upper lid 4 is closed, the control unit 30 automatically starts the operation.
[0040]
When the operation is started, a washing step is executed (step S1). In the washing process, first, the water supply valve 15 is opened, water is supplied from the water inlet 16 into the washing / dewatering tub 5 in which laundry is stored and a predetermined amount of detergent is charged, and a water level detection signal from the water level sensor 24 is supplied. Based on this, water up to a predetermined washing water level is stored. Then, the motor 10 is driven to rotate the pulsator 8 alternately in the left-right direction to wash the laundry. When the washing step is completed, next, an intermediate dewatering step is executed (step S2). That is, after the drain valve 19 is opened to drain the water in the washing and dewatering tub 5, the washing and dewatering tub 5 is rotated at a high speed. As a result, the detergent water contained in the laundry is discharged from the laundry by centrifugal force, scatters to the outer tub 2 side through the water holes 6, and is discharged out of the machine.
[0041]
When the intermediate dewatering process is completed, the water supply valve 15 is opened to supply clean water from the water inlet 16 into the washing and dewatering tub 5, and the first rinsing process is performed by rotating the pulsator 8 as in the washing process (step). S3). After that, an intermediate dewatering step is performed as in step S2 (step S4), and the process shifts to a second rinsing step (step S5). In the second rinsing step, not only the pulsator 8 is rotated as in the first rinsing step to simply rinse the laundry, but also the stored water is disinfected by operating the electrolyzed water generator 25. Wash the laundry. When the second rinsing step is completed, a final dehydration step is performed (step S6), and the operation is ended by discharging the water sucked by the laundry.
[0042]
Although the basic driving operation is as described above, the coin-type fully automatic washing machine is configured so that various types of driving can be set according to the intention of the owner of the coin land store. Such a setting method will be described later. As one of the settings, the first rinsing stroke is usually a pool rinsing, whereas the setting is such that a water injection rinsing is executed as a first rinsing stroke every predetermined number of operations. Can be performed. This is performed for the purpose of preventing dirt such as detergent residue from sticking to the outer tub 2 and the washing / dewatering tub 5.
[0043]
That is, in the coin-type fully automatic washing machine as in the present embodiment, in many cases, the high water level which is always the highest among the washing water levels set in the washing dehydration tub 5 in a plurality of stages (in FIG. Washing and rinsing with water stored up to the water level line Ln) are performed. This is because, in general, the usage fee is uniform regardless of the amount of laundry (load amount), and when the washing water level is changed, the amount of detergent to be supplied also needs to be changed, which is complicated. Rely on. For this reason, dirt such as detergent residue easily adheres to the outer wall surface of the washing and dewatering tub 5 and the inner wall surface of the outer tub 2 in a band shape near the high water level. Such dirt accumulates each time the washing operation is repeated, and becomes more difficult to remove. Then, in a state where the sticking of the dirt becomes severe, even if the same tank cleaning operation as in the washing step is performed using the tank cleaning detergent, it does not usually fall easily. Therefore, in order to keep the tank clean, it is important not to make such sticking of dirt severe.
[0044]
As described above, dirt such as detergent residue adhering to the washing and dewatering tub 5 and the outer tub 2 can be relatively easily removed even by the force of the water flow as long as it is before the sticking becomes severe. However, for example, in the case where the operation is always performed at the same washing water level, there is almost no chance that the dirt adhering to the washing and dewatering tub 5 and the outer tub 2 in a strip shape, especially the upper side, is immersed in water. Therefore, if the water rinse is forcibly performed instead of the reservoir rinse, the water level in the washing / dewatering tub 5 at the time of the water rinse at the lower edge of the overflow port 20 (the overflow water level in FIG. Since the line always rises up to the line Lf), the entire dirt adhered in a band shape as described above above the high water level line Ln is immersed in water. Thereby, it becomes possible to remove such dirt by the power of the water current.
[0045]
The processing operation for preventing such sticking of dirt will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the operation is started, first, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the count value A of the counter 30a has reached a set number of times (step S10). As will become clear later, the count value A indicates the number of times the washing course has been operated. If the count value A has not reached the set number of times, the count value A is counted up by "1" (step S11), and the washing course (first washing course) in which the accumulated rinse is performed as the first rinsing step is performed. Select (step S12).
[0046]
On the other hand, when it is determined in step S10 that the count value A has reached the set number of times, the count value A is reset to "0" (step S13), and the washing course (in which the water is rinsed as the first rinsing step) ( The second washing course is selected (step S14). The operations of the first and second washing courses are the same except for the type of rinsing in the first rinsing step. After the washing course is determined in step S12 or S14, the substantial operation is started, and the above-described steps are executed.
[0047]
When the second washing course for performing the water rinsing is selected, the water rinsing is executed instead of the pool rinsing in the first rinsing step of step S3 in FIG. That is, the pulsator 8 is rotated at a low speed while the water supply valve 15 is opened to supply water, and the laundry is stirred. Even if the water level rises and exceeds the high water level line Ln, the water supply is not stopped, and the water that has exceeded the overflow water level line Lf overflows from the overflow port 20 and is discharged outside the machine. Therefore, as described above, dirt such as detergent scum that adheres to the outer tub 2 and the washing and dewatering tub 5 in the vicinity of the high water level line Ln is stripped off by the force of the water flow. The separated dirt is collected by a lint collecting filter when water is discharged into the washing and dewatering tub 5 through a circulating water channel (not shown), or overflows when the water enters the washing and dewatering tub 5. It is discharged out of the machine on the water overflowing from the mouth 20. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent such peeled dirt from attaching to the laundry being rinsed.
[0048]
The set number of times in step S10 is a parameter that determines the frequency of executing the second washing course instead of the first washing course. If the set number of times is reduced, the chances of washing off dirt increase and sanitation is increased accordingly. On the other hand, the amount of water used is increased and the operation cost is increased as well as water saving. Conversely, if the set number is increased, the amount of water used is relatively small, but the chance of washing off dirt is reduced and the possibility of dirt sticking is increased. It is desirable to determine the number of settings in consideration of the balance between such advantages and disadvantages. However, according to the study of the present inventor, in the case of a coin-type fully automatic washing machine installed in a coin land store, the number of settings is determined. The number of times may be set to about “10”.
[0049]
In the fully automatic washing machine of the present embodiment, the washing water level is set to be higher than the normal washing water level (high water level in the above case) by performing the water rinsing instead of the pool rinsing. Even if it is not a water-rinsing rinse, a pool rinse may be used as long as it is higher than a normal washing water level. Further, the time may not be at the time of the first rinsing step, but may be at the time of the washing step or another rinsing step. However, during the washing process, detergent slag is generated in the first place, and although there is an effect of removing dirt adhering to it by a water stream, it is not very efficient because there is a possibility that detergent scum may be separately attached. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the disinfection rinsing using the electrolyzed water generation unit 25 is performed during the second rinsing step. In the disinfection rinsing, the generated electrolyzed water is discharged outside the machine by pouring and rinsing. It is not very suitable to employ a water rinsing here because it is not desirable.
[0050]
In a coin-type fully automatic washing machine, it is common to fix the washing water level as described above. However, depending on the owner of the coin land store, automatic setting of the water level according to the amount of laundry is given priority to water saving and the like. You may want to do a washing operation. In the fully automatic washing machine of this embodiment, in order to respond to such a demand, a switching operation as described later can select the automatic water level setting operation instead of the high water level fixed operation. However, even in the case of the automatic water level setting operation, since the highest washing water level is the above-mentioned high water level, dirt adhering near the position of any of the washing water levels can be washed away by the above-described water rinsing.
[0051]
When performing the automatic water level setting operation in the coin-type fully automatic washing machine of the present embodiment, characteristic control is performed on the water level setting and the water flow setting. Next, this point will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
[0052]
When the washing operation is started, the control unit 30 executes a load amount determination process for determining the amount of the laundry stored in the washing and dewatering tub 5 (Step S20). That is, the pulsator 8 is rotated in a predetermined driving pattern for a short time, and the rotational load at that time is detected. Based on the result, the amount of the laundry is determined, and the strength of the water flow and the water level during the washing process are determined (step S21). As the amount of laundry increases, the bulk of the laundry increases, so that the water level is set high, and the circumference of the laundry during agitation deteriorates, so that the water flow is set strong. The strength of the water flow is determined by the length of the ON time of the motor 10 that rotates the pulsator 8.
[0053]
Next, water is supplied into the washing and dewatering tub 5 until the water level reaches the water level determined as described above, and washing is started by rotating the pulsator 8 at a low speed so as to obtain the same water flow (step S22). After the washing is started, the control unit 30 determines the rotation state (cloth rotation) of the laundry in the washing and dewatering tub 5 (step S23). The cloth circumference can be determined, for example, based on the rotational load applied to the pulsator 8. Here, the cloth circumference is evaluated in three stages: normal, bad, and too good. Usually, at the water level and the water flow determined based on the initial load, the cloth rotation is determined to be normal. Of course, a certain degree of error may occur depending on factors such as the quality of the laundry, the condition of storage in the washing / dewatering tub 5, or whether the laundry is wet from the beginning, but there is no significant error.
[0054]
However, for example, when the user adds laundry after the load amount is determined, the washing water level may be insufficient and the cloth rotation may be considerably deteriorated. If the washing operation is continued in such a state, the washing performance may not be sufficiently exhibited, such as uneven washing, and the cloth may be badly damaged. Then, according to the result of the determination of the cloth circumference, if the cloth circumference is normal, the water flow and the water level at that time are maintained (step S24). If the cloth circumference is poor, the water flow is increased and the water level is raised (step S24). In step S25), when the cloth rotation is too good, the water level is maintained but the water flow is weakened (step S26). When raising the water level, for example, the water supply valve 15 is opened for a predetermined time to supply water, or water is supplied until the water level sensor 24 detects that the washing water level has reached the next higher level. The strength of the water flow can be adjusted by changing the on-time of the motor 10.
[0055]
Thus, when the cloth rotation is poor, the washing water level rises and the water flow is strengthened, so that the laundry is easily immersed in water and easily rotated. Thereby, excessive friction is not applied to the laundry, and the damage to the cloth can be reduced. On the other hand, if the cloth circumference is too good, the washing water level does not change but the water flow weakens. As a result, it is possible to prevent water splashing beyond the upper edge of the outer tub 2 and to suppress extremely large friction between the laundry and the laundry and the inner wall of the laundry dehydration tub 5 to reduce cloth damage. can do. After adjusting the water level and the strength of the water flow according to the cloth rotation determination result in this manner, it is determined whether or not a predetermined cleaning operation time has elapsed and the cleaning operation has ended (step S27). If the washing operation time has not yet elapsed, the process returns to step S23, and the cloth rotation is determined again. Therefore, by repeating the processing of steps S23 to S27, the water level and the strength of the water flow are changed as needed according to the rotation state of the laundry until the washing operation is completed (however, the water level does not drop).
[0056]
If it is determined in step S27 that the washing operation has been completed, the control unit 30 determines at that time, that is, the water level and the strength of the water flow finally performed in the washing operation, the initial water level and the water flow during the rinsing operation. The strength is determined and temporarily stored (step S28). Thereafter, as described above, the intermediate dewatering process is executed (Step S29), and when it is completed, the rinsing process is started (Step S30). Although the rinsing process is performed at least twice as described with reference to FIG. 4, in FIG. 6, only one rinsing process is described.
[0057]
In the rinsing stroke, water is supplied and the pulsator 8 starts rotating at a low speed based on the previously stored water level and water flow strength settings. Therefore, when the makeup water is supplied during the washing process and the water level rises, the rinsing process starts the operation with the water level rising from the beginning. As a result, in most cases, rinsing is started in a state where the laundry is sufficiently immersed in water and the cloth is properly rotated, which is very effective in reducing the damage to the laundry during the rinsing process. is there. However, although it is a rare case, since laundry may be added during the rinsing, the cloth rotation is determined at the time of the rinsing process as well as at the time of the washing process, and according to the result of the determination. The water level and the strength of the water flow are adjusted (steps S31 to S34). Thereby, cloth damage can be more reliably reduced. Then, when the predetermined rinsing operation time has elapsed, it is determined that rinsing has been completed (“Yes” in step S35), and the process proceeds to the final dehydration step (step S36).
[0058]
Thus, in the fully automatic washing machine of the present embodiment, when performing the automatic water level setting operation, by appropriately changing the water level and the strength of the water flow during the operation, the start time of the rinsing stroke is further improved. Since the water level and the water flow are determined with reference to the final water level and the water flow state at the time of the washing process, the damage to the laundry can be effectively reduced.
[0059]
By the way, as described above, in this coin-type fully automatic washing machine, the operation of the dip switch 41 and the tact switch 42 mounted on the control board 40 exposed when the protective cover 1a on the back of the outer box 1 is removed is performed. Accordingly, various control contents of the control unit 30 are switched. As is well known, the DIP switch 41 is an alternate type switch that mechanically holds both ON and OFF states. For example, the power plug is pulled out from an outlet or a power failure occurs, and the DIP switch 41 is provided with the DIP switch 41. Even if the power is cut off, the information set by the DIP switch 41 is retained. On the other hand, the tact switch 42 is a momentary switch that is turned on or off only when pressed from the outside, and the control unit 30 sequentially counts the pulse signals corresponding to the on operation (or the off operation) by counting. Switch modes. Therefore, when the power supply is cut off as described above, the mode information at that time cannot be held unless the storage information is held by a backup battery or the like, and the device normally returns to the reset state. Further, even when the storage information is held by a backup battery or the like, the same applies if the backup available period has elapsed.
[0060]
In the case of a coin-type fully automatic washing machine, it is inconvenient that information regarding basic settings for executing a washing course such as setting of a usage amount is changed even when the power is turned off. On the other hand, a special operation mode (for example, a mode of forcibly draining water) used at the time of failure diagnosis or test operation has no problem even if it is reset when the power is turned off. Therefore, the former setting is basically assigned to the dip switch 41 and the latter switching is assigned to the tact switch 42. More specifically, the on / off setting of the plurality of DIP switches 41 enables setting changes such as the setting of the usage amount, the use of hot water, and the use of the automatic detergent dispenser.
[0061]
In order to switch the dip switch 41 on and off, it is necessary to remove the protective cover 1a, so that the security is high, but the change is very troublesome for the owner. On the other hand, since the tact switch 42 can be operated without removing the protective cover 1a, the operation is relatively easy. Therefore, in the coin-type fully automatic washing machine of this embodiment, although a basic setting item when executing the washing course, the possibility of setting change by the owner is relatively high, and the setting information is changed by power-off or the like. A configuration is adopted in which setting changes can be made using the tact switch 42 for setting items that do not affect the user at least even if the data is lost.
[0062]
An example of the control related to the setting change will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. First, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the tact switch 42 has been turned on (step S40), and switches the mode if it has been turned on (step S41). Here, nine modes are prepared as modes to be switched by operation of the tact switch 42, and each time the tact switch 42 is pressed (turned on), the display of the numeric display 29b1 of the display unit 29b is changed to each of the nine types. [01] → [02] → [03] →... → [09] corresponding to the mode are updated in order, and return from [09] to [01]. For example, [01] is a test operation mode in which washing is performed for one minute after water supply, and [02] is a test operation mode in which the drain valve 19 is opened to discharge water. [08] is for changing the setting of the washing course, and is a mode for selecting the presence / absence of automatic setting of the water level in the washing course (in the case of no setting, the water level is fixed). Although the numeral display 29b1 displays three digits, only the lower two digits are used in the above case.
[0063]
In step S42, it is determined whether or not the mode is the [08] mode. If the mode is any of the modes [01] to [07] and [09] other than the [08] mode, the display corresponding to each mode is indicated by a numeral. The operation is performed on the display 29b1, and a predetermined operation corresponding to the operation is executed (step S43).
[0064]
If the [08] mode is selected in step S42, it is next determined whether or not the tank cleaning key 29a1 of the operation unit 29a is pressed to turn on (step S44). If not, the process proceeds to step S49. And proceed. If the tank cleaning key 29a1 is in the ON state, it is determined whether the ON state continues for 10 seconds (step S45). When the tank cleaning key 29a1 is continuously turned on for 10 seconds or more, the setting state of this mode at that time is “No automatic water level setting (denoted as“ A ”in FIG. 7)”. It is determined whether or not (step S46). As described above, in a coin-type fully automatic washing machine installed in a coin land store, "no automatic water level setting" is often selected. If it is "No automatic water level setting", the setting is changed from "No automatic water level setting" to "Automatic water level setting (indicated as" A '"in FIG. 7)" (step S47). On the other hand, if it is not "no automatic water level setting" in step S46, it is "with automatic water level setting", and it is changed to "no automatic water level setting" (step S48).
[0065]
That is, if the processing in steps S42 to S48 is briefly described, when the tank cleaning key 29a1 is continuously pressed for 10 seconds or more in the [08] mode, the "water level automatic setting is not performed" state and the "water level automatic setting is performed" And state are mutually changed. The tank cleaning key 29a1 is not originally used for such a purpose, but is used for instructing the operation of the tank cleaning course. However, in combination with the tact switch 42, another object is achieved in this way. You.
[0066]
In step S49, it is determined whether or not the setting at that time is “no automatic water level setting”. If “no automatic water level setting”, “08” is displayed on the numerical display 29b1, and “automatic water level setting” is performed. If "water level automatic setting exists" instead of "no setting", "P8" is displayed on the numeric display 29b1 (steps S50 and S51). Thus, the operator (usually the owner) can visually recognize the state of the automatic water level setting.
[0067]
When the user inserts the coin of the set amount into the coin insertion box in the state where the setting is performed in this way, the control unit 30 determines whether the setting is “the water level is not automatically set” or not. (Step S53, S54, S55).
[0068]
As exemplified above, the owner can change the presence / absence of the automatic water level setting as necessary with a relatively simple operation. The “09” mode is a mode for selecting whether or not to execute the second washing course instead of the first washing course for each set number of times as described above. Changes can be made. If a power failure occurs for a predetermined time or more, the memory of the control unit 30 is reset, and the “08” mode returns to “no automatic water level setting” and the “09” mode returns to “no execution of the second washing course”. However, there is no problem for the user.
[0069]
In the above description, the case where two options with or without automatic water level setting are prepared for one type of mode “08” mode, but three or more options for one type of mode are provided. For example, a state in which the tank cleaning key 29a1 is continuously pressed is finely determined as 10 seconds or more, 20 seconds or more, 30 seconds or more, and one of the options is determined according to the determination result. Control can also be performed.
[0070]
Further, in the coin-type fully automatic washing machine of the present embodiment, the electrolyzed water is generated by the electrolyzed water generator 25 to sterilize the laundry and the tub itself. The service life is shorter than that of 10 and other various parts, and the necessity of maintenance such as replacement is high. However, whether or not the electrolyzed water generation unit 25 is functioning sufficiently is difficult to visually recognize, so it is important for the owner to know an appropriate maintenance time. Therefore, in this coin-type fully automatic washing machine, the control unit 30 performs a process of integrating the operation time of the electrolyzed water generation unit 25, and when a predetermined operation is performed, the integrated value is displayed on the display unit 29b in the above-described 7. A function is provided that can be displayed on the segment numeral display 29b1.
[0071]
To display the electrolysis operation time, the owner presses the bath cleaning key 29a1 six times while pressing the tact switch 42. Upon receiving such an operation, the control unit 30 first causes the numeric display 29b1 to display [ALL]. This is the initial state of the electrolysis operation time display. In this state, when the owner presses either the tact switch 42 or the tank cleaning key 29a1, the control unit 30 sequentially switches the display in three stages on the numeric display 29b1 each time the key is pressed once. Note that the display range of the electrolysis operation time is 0 to 999999 hours and 59 minutes, and a total of eight digits are displayed.
(1) The electrolysis LED and the wash LED of the LED display 29b2 are turned on, and the upper three digits of the "time" of the electrolysis operation time are displayed on the numeric display 29b1.
(2) The electrolysis LED and the dehydration LED of the LED display 29b2 are turned on, and the numeral display 29b1 displays the lower three digits of the "time" of the electrolysis operation time.
(3) The electrolysis LED and the rinsing LED of the LED display 29b2 are turned on, and two digits of "minute" of the electrolysis operation time are displayed on the numeric display 29b1.
[0072]
Then, when the tact switch 42 or the tank cleaning key 29a1 is pressed once more from the state of the above (3), the function of the electrolysis operation time display is ended. Each of the display states (1) to (3) is held for 10 seconds, and even if the tact switch 42 or the tank cleaning key 29a1 is not pressed, the display state sequentially shifts to the next display state every 10 seconds. Finally, the function of the electrolysis operation time display ends. In this way, the owner can appropriately check the electrolysis operation time and arrange for requesting replacement of the electrolysis electrode 27 as necessary. Generally, the replacement time of the electrode 27 for electrolysis is often when the electrolysis operation time reaches about 1000 hours.
[0073]
Further, when the electrolysis electrode 27 is replaced, the next replacement time can be accurately known by resetting the integrated value of the electrolysis operation time. To perform the reset, the tact switch 42 and the tank cleaning key 29a1 are simultaneously pressed, and the state is maintained for 20 seconds or more. In response to this operation, the control unit 30 resets the integrated value, blinks [CLE] on the numeric display 29b1 five times, and then returns to the original state. Thus, the owner (or maintenance person) can confirm that the electrolysis operation time has been reset.
[0074]
The above embodiment is merely an example of the present invention, and it goes without saying that the present invention is included in the present invention even if it is appropriately modified, modified, or added within the spirit of the present invention. For example, the above-described embodiment mainly describes a coin-type fully automatic washing machine installed in a coin land store, but the present invention can also be applied to a fully automatic washing machine installed in a general home.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view showing the entire configuration of a coin-type fully automatic washing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an electric system of the fully automatic washing machine according to the embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of the upper rear portion of the fully automatic washing machine according to the embodiment with the protective cover on the back of the outer box removed.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a basic operation procedure in the fully automatic washing machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a processing operation for preventing sticking of dirt in the fully automatic washing machine of the present embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a procedure of operating a washing course of automatically setting a water level in the fully automatic washing machine of the embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a control flowchart relating to a change in setting of an operation program in the fully automatic washing machine of the present embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
1: Outer box
1a ... Protective cover
1b ... hole
2 ... Outer tank
3 ... hanging rod
4: Top lid
4a Open / close detection switch
5 ... Washing dehydration tub
6 ... Water hole
7 ... Support shaft
8… Pulsator
9 ... Inner axis
10 ... Motor
11 Power transmission mechanism
12 ... Clutch mechanism
13 ... Torque motor
14 ... water pipe
15. Water supply valve
16 ... water inlet
17 ... Drain outlet
18 ... Drain pipe
19… Drain valve
20 ... overflow
21 ... Overflow pipe
22 ... Air trap
23 ... Pressure hose
24 ... Water level sensor
25 ... electrolyzed water generator
25a ... energizing circuit
25b: current detection unit
26 ... Electrolysis room
27 ... electrode for electrolysis
28 ... Control box
29 ... Operation panel
29a ... operation unit
29a1… Tank cleaning key
29b ... Display unit
29b1 7-segment numeric display
29b2 ... LED display
29c… Buzzer
30 ... Control unit
30a ... Counter
31 ... Load drive unit
32 ... Coin detector
40 ... Control board
41… Dip switch
42 ... Tact switch

Claims (5)

A washing / dewatering tub rotatably disposed in the outer tub; and a water supply means for supplying water to the washing / dewatering tub. In a fully automatic washing machine for washing laundry stored in
a) instruction means for instructing the start of the washing operation;
b) receiving the instruction from the instruction means, and at a predetermined frequency, replacing the normal first washing course, to a position higher than the normal washing water level or a position higher than the highest washing water level; An operation control means for executing a second washing course also serving as a tub washing, including a washing step and / or a rinsing step of supplying water according to
A fully automatic washing machine comprising: The operation control unit includes a counting unit that counts the number of operations of the washing machine, the number of operations of a specific washing course or the number of operations corresponding thereto, and when the count value by the counting unit reaches a predetermined value, The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, wherein a second washing course is performed. An overflow port for discharging water in the outer tub to the outside of the machine at a position higher than the highest washing water level in the outer tub, wherein the operation control means includes the overflowing port in the second washing course; The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a water rinsing step of overflowing water from a mouth is performed. 4. The operation control means according to claim 1, further comprising an operation means for externally switching whether or not to drive the second washing course in place of the first washing course. Fully automatic washing machine. Washing, rinsing, and a fully automatic washing machine having operation control means for controlling a series of steps such as dehydration automatically,
Operation key means that is operated on a daily basis to perform various instructions related to washing, and switch means provided at a position different from the operation key means for performing special control, the switch means An alternate type first switch means that is installed at a position where it cannot be easily operated from the outside and mechanically maintains both ON and OFF states according to an external operation force, and when an external operation force is received And a second switch means of a momentary type whose ON / OFF state changes only.
An instruction for a special operation other than an automatic operation for executing a series of steps is given by the second switch means, while turning on / off of the first switch means, operation of the second switch means and the operation key A fully automatic washing machine characterized in that the setting of the operation program in the operation control means is changed by a combination with the operation of the means.

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