JPH105486A - Washing machine vibration detection device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Abstract] [Problem] To improve the detection accuracy of abnormal vibration in horizontal and vertical directions of a water receiving tank, simplify sensor positioning management, double use of lid open / close detection, and reduce the effects of secular change such as dust. . SOLUTION: A luminous body 10 is provided on an outer surface of a water receiving tank 3, and a light receiving element 11a, 1 facing the luminous body 10 is provided on an inner surface of an outer box 1.
1b, respectively, and the signals of the light receiving elements 11a and 11b are input to the light intensity detecting means 12a and 12b to detect the light intensity. The vibration determining means 13 detects the light intensity based on the detection results of the light intensity detecting means 12a and 12b. It is designed to determine abnormal vibration of the receiving tank.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a vibration detecting device for a washing machine for automatically performing a series of steps such as washing, draining, rinsing, and dewatering.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a vibration detecting device for a washing machine of this type, for example, there is one disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 5-61198. FIG. 31 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the entire configuration of the washing machine disclosed in this publication.

[0003] As shown in the figure, a conventional washing machine has an outer box 5.
A water receiving tank 52 is suspended and supported in the housing 0 via an elastic suspension mechanism 51. A washing and dewatering tub 54 having a rotary blade 53 at the center bottom and a dewatering hole 54a on the side wall is provided in the water receiving tub 52.
Are rotatably disposed, and a driving mechanism 56 mainly including a motor 55 for rotating and driving the rotating wings 53 and the washing and dewatering tub 54 is provided outside and below the water receiving tub 52.

Further, a first vibration detecting device 57 functioning as a first detecting device and a second vibration detecting device 58 functioning as a second vibration detecting device are provided in an upper portion in the outer case 50. ing. Among them, the first vibration detecting device 57
It is composed of a light emitting diode and a phototransistor (neither is shown) which are disposed obliquely in front and behind in the outer case 50, and the second vibration detecting device 58 is above the first vibration detecting device 57 and Similarly, it is composed of a light emitting diode and a phototransistor (both not shown) which are similarly arranged at the inside position facing each other obliquely in the outer case 50. A light shielding plate 59 having an L-shaped cross section is provided at the rear upper edge of the water receiving tank 52 so as to project from the side surface to the upper surface.

In such a device, when the water receiving tank 52 vibrates in the horizontal direction, the first vibration detecting device 5
7 and the phototransistor are shut off, and the output voltage of this phototransistor changes from “HI” to “LOW”.

When the water receiving tank 52 vibrates in the vertical direction,
The light shielding plate 59 blocks the light emitting diode of the second vibration detecting device 58 from the phototransistor, and the output voltage of the phototransistor changes from “HI” to “LOW”.

As described above, the contents of the vibration (horizontal vibration and vertical vibration) are determined based on changes in the output voltages of the first and second vibration detecting devices 57 and 58.

[0008]

In the above-described conventional vibration detecting device of a washing machine, the vibration is detected by the "H" of each phototransistor of the first and second vibration detecting devices 57 and 58.
I and LOW are detected, but in the case of the pattern, when the mounting position accuracy of the light emitting diode and the phototransistor is not strictly controlled, a vibration detection error between the airframes increases.

When the washing machine is installed, it is natural that the floor is inclined. In this case, too, the initial positions of the light emitting diode and the phototransistor change, which causes a detection error.

Further, in order to detect abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank 52 at the beginning of dehydration, it is necessary to increase the size of the light shielding plate 59. In this case, the vibration causes the light shielding plate 59 to move the first and second vibration detecting devices. There is a risk of interference with 57, 58 or the outer box 50.

A first technical problem of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems and to detect a temporal change in an output voltage of a light receiving element to detect abnormal horizontal and vertical vibrations of a water receiving tank. It is an object of the present invention to improve accuracy, simplify sensor positioning management, double use of lid open / close detection, and reduce the effects of secular changes such as dust. A second technical problem of the present invention is to detect abnormal vibration by a stress generated by acceleration,
An object of the present invention is to prevent a collision with a torso, improve detection accuracy of an acceleration danger area, expand a degree of freedom of a sensor arrangement position, and improve reliability.

[0012]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vibration detecting apparatus for a washing machine having the following configuration. That is, in a washing tub having a washing and dehydrating tub that is rotated and driven by a motor, and a washing machine having an outer box that suspends and supports the receiving tub, the luminous body mounted on the outer surface of the receiving tub and the luminous body are opposed to each other. Light receiving element mounted on the inner surface of the outer box, light intensity detecting means for detecting the light intensity by inputting the signal of the light receiving element, and vibration for determining abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank based on the detection result of the light intensity detecting means. The control device includes a determination unit and a motor control unit that rotates or stops the motor based on a determination result of the vibration determination unit.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vibration detecting apparatus for a washing machine according to the first aspect, wherein a plurality of light receiving elements are horizontally displaced and a plurality of light intensity detecting means are provided. A plurality of light receiving elements are provided so as to correspond to the light receiving elements, and the vibration determining means determines abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank based on the detection results of the plurality of light intensity detecting means.

A vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to a third aspect of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, in a washing tub having a washing and dehydrating tub that is rotated and driven by a motor, and a washing machine having an outer box that suspends and supports the receiving tub, the luminous body mounted on the outer surface of the receiving tub and the luminous body are opposed to each other. A plurality of light-receiving elements that are vertically displaced from the inner surface of the outer box, and a plurality of light-intensities are installed corresponding to these light-receiving elements, and signals from these light-receiving elements are input to detect the respective light intensities. Detection means, weight detection means for detecting the weight in the water receiving tank at the time of water supply based on the detection results of the light intensity detection means, and water supply valve drive control means for controlling opening and closing of the water supply valve based on the detection results of the weight detection means And with.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vibration detecting apparatus for a washing machine according to the third aspect, wherein the vibration judging means judges abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank based on the detection result of each light intensity detecting means. And a motor control means for rotating or stopping the motor based on the determination result of the vibration determination means.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to any one of the first to fourth aspects.
A light-shielding plate disposed so as to be able to protrude and retract in the space between the light-emitting body and the light-receiving element, and a light-shielding plate that is installed between an openable and closable cover and a light-shielding plate that covers the upper opening of the outer box. A movement direction conversion mechanism that converts the rotational movement into a movement of the light shielding plate into and out of the space,
Lid opening / closing detecting means for detecting the opening / closing state of the lid based on the detection result of the light intensity detecting means and instructing the motor control means to stop the motor when the lid is opened during dehydration. It is.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to the first to fourth aspects.
At the location where the outer surface of the washing and dewatering tub is higher than the water surface when the water is full, the blades that protrude outward are installed at a plurality of locations in the circumferential direction. An air path is provided to guide the wind generated by the co-rotating blade to the light emitting element and the light receiving element.

A vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to a seventh aspect of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, in a washing machine having a water receiving tub internally provided with a washing and spin-drying tub driven and rotated by a motor, and an outer box for suspending and supporting the water receiving tub, the water receiving tub was mounted so as to be perpendicular to the outer surface thereof. An elastic column, a strain gauge attached to the elastic column, a body contact detecting means for inputting a signal of the strain gauge due to the deflection of the elastic column and detecting a dangerous area per body of the water receiving tank during the dehydration step, and a body contact detecting means And a motor control means for rotating or stopping the motor based on the detection result.

The vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is the vibration detecting device according to the seventh aspect, wherein the elastic column is provided on the side surface of the water receiving tank in the horizontal direction so that the strain gauge corresponds to the vertical direction. At the same time as extending and attaching to, the acceleration detecting means for inputting the signal of the strain gauge due to the deflection of the elastic column to detect the vertical acceleration danger area of the water receiving tank at the time of the dehydration step, based on the detection result of the acceleration detecting means Motor control means for rotating or stopping the motor.

A vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is the vibration detecting device according to the seventh aspect, wherein the elastic column is attached to the lower surface side of the water receiving tub by suspending the elastic column. , A stress transmitting part with a center of gravity at the tip is provided to extend in the horizontal direction so as to correspond to the strain gauge, and furthermore, a signal of the strain gauge is input, and a vertical acceleration danger area of the water receiving tank is set during the dehydration process. It comprises an acceleration detecting means for detecting, and a motor control means for rotating or stopping the motor based on the detection result of the acceleration detecting means.

A vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to a tenth aspect of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, a washing tub having a washing tub and a dewatering tub that is rotated and driven by a motor, an outer box that suspends and supports the receiving tub, and an openable and closable lid that is attached to the upper part of the outer box via a hinge. In the machine, the elastic column is attached to the outer box removably with the lid side, engages with the lid when the lid is opened, stress is applied, and the stress is not applied by closing the lid. A strain gauge attached to correspond to the deflection,
A lid opening / closing detecting means for detecting a lid opening / closing during a dehydration step by inputting a signal of a strain gauge due to deflection when the lid of the elastic column is opened,
Motor control means for rotating or stopping the motor based on the detection result of the lid open / close detection means.

The vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to claim 11 of the present invention is the vibration detecting device according to claims 7 to 10, which is newly attached to the elastic column so as to be perpendicular to the strain gauge. The input of the strain gauge, the signal of the newly attached strain gauge, the acceleration detection means for detecting the horizontal danger area of the water receiving tank during the dewatering process, and the motor is rotated based on the detection result of the acceleration detection means. Or motor control means for stopping the motor.

According to a vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the control board for controlling the washing machine disposed inside or on the upper surface of the outer box, and the strain gauge are attached to the control board. And a mounted elastic column.

[0024]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Embodiment 1 FIG. FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the entire structure of a washing machine for explaining a vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to the first, second, fifth and sixth aspects of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a top view showing a state in which the cover is closed

In each of the figures, reference numeral 1 denotes an outer box having an open top,
Reference numeral 2 denotes a top cover having an openable and closable lid (not shown) and disposed so as to cover an upper surface opening of the outer box 1. Reference numeral 3 denotes an elastic member provided on the outer box 1 via an elastic suspension mechanism 4 having a spring 4a. The water receiving tub 5 suspended and supported in a suspended manner is a washing and dewatering tub provided rotatably in the water receiving tub 3, a rotary blade 6 at a central bottom portion, and a dehydration hole 5 a on a side wall. Reference numeral 7 denotes a drive mechanism which is disposed below the water receiving tub 3 and rotationally drives the rotary wings 6 and the washing and dewatering tub 5, and includes a motor 7a, a speed reduction mechanism 7b, and the like. Reference numeral 8 denotes a water supply valve provided at the rear of the top cover 2 having a water supply valve 8a, and reference numeral 9 denotes a balance ring for reducing vibration of the washing and dewatering tub 5 during dehydration. Reference numeral 10 denotes a light emitter composed of an infrared light emitting diode or the like attached to the outside of the water receiving tank 3, and reference numerals 11a and 11b denote first and second light transistors etc. which are attached to the inside of the outer box 1 so as to face the light emitter 10. And converts a change in the intensity of the incident light into a voltage. Reference numerals 12a and 12b denote first and second light intensity detecting means, and 13 denotes a vibration judging means. The first and second light intensity detecting means 12a and 12b and the vibration judging means 1
Numeral 3 is constituted by, for example, a microcomputer and detects abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank 3. Reference numeral 14 denotes a warning unit configured by a buzzer or the like that issues a warning to a user when an abnormal signal is output from the vibration determining unit 13, and 15 stops rotation of the motor 7a when an abnormal signal is output from the vibration determining unit 13. Motor control means.

The luminous body 10 which is a sensor part of the vibration detecting device
The light receiving elements 11a and 11b are arranged on the rear left side in the outer box 1 so that the optical path does not interfere with any of the outer box 1, the water receiving tank 3, and the elastic suspension mechanism 4. Here, the luminous body 10 is arranged on the upper outside of the water receiving tank 3, and each light receiving element 11
a and 11b were arranged in the upper part on the inner side of the outer box 1 with their positions shifted in the horizontal direction.

Next, the operation of the vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to the present embodiment will be described. In general, the light amount of the light emitter 10 is inversely proportional to the square of the distance between the light emitter 10 and the light receiving element (hereinafter simply referred to as distance).

Each of the light receiving elements 11a and 11b outputs a voltage proportional to the intensity of the incident light, but has different sensitivities in different incident directions.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show the directional characteristics of such a light-emitting body and a light-receiving element. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the directional characteristics of the light emitter, and FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the directional characteristics of the light receiving element, all of which show a change in relative sensitivity depending on the relative directional angle θ.
Here, the luminous body 10 has a high directivity, and each of the light receiving elements 11a and 11b has a slightly low directivity. As described above, the output voltage of each of the light receiving elements 11a and 11b changes depending on the distance and the relative directivity angle.

By the way, since the water receiving tank 3 vibrates during the dehydrating operation, the light emitting body 10 attached to the water receiving tank 3 also swings in conjunction therewith, and the positional relationship between the light receiving elements 11a and 11b changes.

FIG. 5 shows a possible positional relationship between the light emitting body 10 shown in FIG. 2 and each of the light receiving elements 11a and 11b. The dehydration unbalance vibration of the water receiving tub 3 (hereinafter simply referred to as unbalance) due to the unevenness of the laundry can be simplified and approximated to a circular motion.

When the imbalance is small and the vibration is small, the luminous body 10 follows the trajectory indicated by α. In this orbit, the distance is medium, the change in distance is small, and the change in relative directivity angle θ is also small. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, the output waveforms of the light intensity detecting means 12a and 12b have a small amplitude and the output is a slightly weak vibration waveform.

When the spin-drying operation is started in a state where the load of the laundry is large, the vibration becomes intense as the spin-drying speed increases, and the light-emitting body 10 follows a trajectory as shown by γ in FIG.

First, when the luminous body 10 is at the position of γ0,
When each of the first light receiving element 11a and the second light receiving element 11b is equidistant and the relative directivity angles θa and θb are both equal to about 45 ° and are closest to each other (the relative distance between the light emitting element and the light receiving element). (When the directional angle is 0 °) is 100%,
The amount of light at this time is about 40%. On the other hand, each light receiving element 11
a and 11b have a relative directivity angle θ of about 45.
°, both are 50%. Therefore, the output values of the first and second light intensity detecting means 12a and 12b are 20% of the peak value. The output value was determined as follows. A = B × C × D where A: output value B: attenuation based on distance C: light quantity of light emitter based on relative directivity angle θ D: sensitivity of light receiving element based on relative directivity angle θ

Next, when the luminous body 10 is at the position of γ1,
The closest to the first light receiving element 11a, the first light receiving element 11a
The relative directivity angle θa with respect to a becomes 0 °, and the output value of the first light intensity detecting means 12a which receives, amplifies, and A / D converts the signal of the first light receiving element 11a becomes the maximum (1
00%). On the other hand, the relative directivity angle θb with respect to the second light receiving element becomes extremely large, and the output value of the second light intensity detecting means 12b which receives, amplifies, and A / D converts the signal of the second light receiving element 11b becomes almost equal. It becomes 0.

Similarly, in this γ orbit, the luminous body 10
As the distance moves from γ0 to γ9, the output values of the light intensity detecting means 12a and 12b are changed from those shown in FIGS. It transits. The output waveform at that time is shown in the time series graph of FIG.

When the imbalance is medium and the vibration is medium, the light emitting body 10 follows a trajectory indicated by β in FIG. The change in the distance and the relative pointing angle θ in the β orbit is intermediate between the orbit α and the orbit γ.

Accordingly, the light intensity detecting means 12a, 12
The output waveform of b is also intermediate between FIG. 6 and FIG. The output waveform at that time is shown in the time series graph of FIG. FIG. 9A shows a small output waveform in the case where the vibration is medium, and FIG. 9B shows a large output waveform in the case where the vibration is medium.

Further, when the unevenness of the laundry is extremely large, the water receiving tub 3 swings very slowly while rotating very slowly, so that the outer case 1 and the water receiving tub 3 come into contact with each other, that is, a so-called body contact may occur. is there. In this case, as shown in the time-series graph of FIG. 10, the output waveforms of the light intensity detection means 12a and 12b also become output waveforms having a large maximum peak. Therefore, by setting the threshold value P as shown in FIG. 10, the vibration judging means 13 can detect the abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank 3.

When the vibration judging means 13 judges that the vibration of the water receiving tank 3 is at an abnormal level, an abnormal signal is sent to the motor control means 15 and the warning means 14 to stop the motor 7a urgently and warn the user. Emits. Thus, the user can know the abnormal vibration, that is, the dehydration stop due to the unevenness of the laundry, so that the laundry can be restored by the manual operation after correcting the unevenness of the laundry.

As described above, not only the determination of the stop state, but also the manner in which the vibration value of the water receiving tank 3 changes continuously from the start of the spin-drying operation can be grasped. In addition, initial setting (reset) is easy, and it is possible to determine whether vibration during dehydration is at an allowable level or an abnormal level. Therefore, even if the washing machine is installed slightly inclined, the initial setting (reset) according to this inclination
By performing the above, it is possible to distinguish between an actual abnormal inclination (abnormal vibration) occurring during use and a tilt in a stopped state, and it is possible to determine abnormal vibration. Furthermore, since there is no movable portion such as a lever that comes in contact with the device, reliability can be improved.

Here, an example in which a plurality of (two) light receiving elements are provided in the sensor section of the vibration detecting apparatus has been described. This means that by installing a plurality of light-receiving elements, it becomes possible to absorb variations in element quality and errors in the positional relationship of elements during assembly, and reduce variations in the accuracy of detection of vibration detection devices between machines during mass production. Because it can be. However, achieving the intended objectives such as improved detection accuracy of abnormal vibrations and simplification of sensor positioning management can be realized with a single light receiving element in the sensor section by adopting the arrangement configuration as in this embodiment. It is.

Also, here, in the case where the vibration is severe, a description has been given of an example in which the dehydration operation is returned by a manual operation by the user after an emergency stop. It is also easy to adopt an automatic return configuration in which the dehydration operation is started again.

Embodiment 2 FIG. FIG. 11 shows claim 3 of the present invention.
Main part enlarged longitudinal sectional view showing a state before water supply of the vibration detecting devices of the washing machines according to 4, 5, and 6, and FIG. 12 shows a state in which water has entered a water receiving tank up to its rated water amount (here, 60 liters). It is a principal part enlarged longitudinal sectional view, and in each figure, the parts corresponding to the above-described first embodiment (FIG. 1) are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In each of the figures, reference numeral 1 denotes an outer box having an open top,
Reference numeral 2 denotes a top cover having an openable / closable lid (not shown) and disposed so as to cover the upper opening of the outer box 1. Reference numeral 3 denotes a spring (FIG. 1).
5) is a washing and dewatering tank rotatably installed in the water receiving tank 3 and elastically suspended and supported by the outer box 1 via an elastic suspending mechanism 4 having a central bottom portion thereof. Has a rotating blade (see FIG. 1), and a dehydration hole 5a is provided in a side wall. The rotating wings and the washing and dewatering tub 5 are rotationally driven by a drive mechanism (see FIG. 1) including a motor, a speed reduction mechanism, and the like, disposed below the water receiving tub 3. 8 has a water supply valve 8a,
A water supply port 9 provided behind the top cover 2 is a balance ring for reducing vibration of the washing and dewatering tub 5 during dehydration. Reference numeral 10a denotes a light emitting body composed of an infrared light emitting diode or the like attached to the outside of the water receiving tank 3, and reference numerals 11c and 11d denote third and fourth light transmissive elements attached to the inside of the outer box 1 facing the light emitting body 10a. And converts a change in the intensity of the incident light into a voltage.

Light-emitting body 10a of each light-receiving element 11c, 11d
Is set so that the third light receiving element 11c faces the front of the light emitting body 10a before water supply (FIG. 12), and the fourth light receiving element 11d when water is supplied to the rated water amount.
Are vertically shifted so as to face the front of the light emitting body 10a (FIG. 11).

Reference numerals 12c and 12d denote third and fourth light intensity detecting means, and 13A a vibration judging means. The third and fourth light intensity detecting means 12c and 12d and the vibration judging means 13A are, for example, microcomputers. And detects abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank 3. Reference numeral 14 denotes a warning unit including a buzzer or the like that issues a warning to a user when an abnormal signal is output from the vibration determination unit 13A, and 15A denotes a motor control unit that controls the operation of the motor. Reference numeral 16 denotes weight detecting means for detecting the weight in the water receiving tank 3 from the output signals of the third and fourth light intensity detecting means 12c and 12d, and 17 controls opening and closing of the water supply valve 8a based on the output signal of the weight detecting means 16. Water supply valve drive control means 18 and weight detection means 1
6 is an operation mode determining means for setting operating conditions based on the output signal of No. 6. The other configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment.

Next, the operation of the vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to this embodiment will be described. When water enters the water receiving tank 3 at the time of water supply, the spring of the elastic suspension mechanism 4 receives the weight and contracts,
The water receiving tank 3 sinks downward, and the luminous body 10a
Also rises and falls with respect to the initial virtual line connecting the light receiving elements 11c and 11d. This sinking amount is substantially proportional to the weight in the water receiving tank 3. At this time, the weight (water amount) in the water receiving tank 3
FIG. 13 shows the relationship between the values and the output values of the third and fourth light intensity detecting means 12c and 12d.

That is, when the weight (water amount) in the water receiving tank 3 is relatively light, the third light receiving element 11c corresponding to the lower light receiving element 11c
The fourth light intensity detecting means 12d having a large output value of the light intensity detecting means 12c and corresponding to the upper light receiving element 11d.
Output value is small. On the other hand, when the weight (water volume) in the water receiving tank 3 is heavy, the output value of the third light intensity detecting means 12c is low, and the output value of the fourth light intensity detecting means 12d is large.

By setting, for example, a threshold value using this relationship, the weight (water amount) in the water receiving tank 3 can be easily detected by the weight detecting means 16. Therefore, when water is supplied to the designated water level at the time of water supply, the weight detection means 16 outputs a water supply end signal, and the water supply valve drive control means 1
7, the water supply valve 8a is closed. The weight detecting means 16 also sends a water supply end signal to the operating mode determining means 18 to start the washing or rinsing operation.

As described above, the internal weight (water amount) of the water receiving tank 3
The amount of sinking caused by the change of the third and fourth light receiving elements 11
By detecting from c and 11d, the weight (water amount) in the water receiving tank 3 can be detected without using an expensive weight sensor or water level sensor. In particular, since the third and fourth light receiving elements 11c and 11d are arranged so as to be shifted in the vertical direction, the vertical vibration of the water receiving tank 3 can be detected more accurately.

Although not shown, a circuit for detecting the abnormal vibration during the spin-drying described in the first embodiment is separately provided here. It is clear from the above-described principle of abnormal vibration detection that the light receiving element can be used as the third and fourth light receiving elements 11c and 11d used in the second embodiment.

Embodiment 3 FIG. FIG. 14 shows claim 1 of the present invention.
The principal part enlarged longitudinal sectional view showing the state when the lid of the washing machine vibration detection device according to 2, 3, 4, 5 is closed, FIG. 15 is the principal part enlarged longitudinal sectional view showing the state when the lid is opened, In each drawing, the same reference numerals are given to portions corresponding to the above-described first embodiment (FIG. 1).

In each of the figures, reference numeral 1 denotes an outer box having an open top,
2 has a lid 2a attached to the upper part of the outer box 1 via a hinge 21; a top cover that covers the upper opening of the outer box 1; and 3 has an elastic suspension mechanism 4 having a spring (see FIG. 1). A water receiving tank 5 elastically suspended and supported by the outer box 1 is a washing and dewatering tank rotatably installed in the water receiving tank 3, and a rotating blade (see FIG. 1) is provided at the center bottom thereof. A dehydration hole 5a is provided in the side wall. The rotating wings and the washing and dewatering tub 5 are rotationally driven by a drive mechanism (see FIG. 1) including a motor, a speed reduction mechanism, and the like, disposed below the water receiving tub 3. Reference numeral 8 denotes a water supply valve provided at the rear of the top cover 2 having a water supply valve 8a, and reference numeral 9 denotes a balance ring for reducing vibration of the washing and dewatering tub 5 during dehydration. Reference numeral 10 denotes a light-emitting body such as an infrared light-emitting diode attached to the outside of the water receiving tank 3;
Reference numerals a and 11b denote first and second light receiving elements, each of which is composed of a phototransistor or the like, which is attached to the inside of the outer box 1 so as to be opposed to the light emitting body 10 and is shifted in the horizontal direction. Convert to

Reference numerals 12a and 12b denote first and second light intensity detecting means, and 13 denotes a vibration judging means. These first and second light intensity detecting means 12a and 12b and vibration judging means 1
Numeral 3 is constituted by, for example, a microcomputer and detects abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank 3. Reference numeral 14 denotes a warning unit including a buzzer or the like that issues a warning to a user when an abnormal signal is output from the vibration determination unit 13, and 15 denotes a motor 7a.
Motor control means for controlling the operation of the motor.

Reference numeral 22 denotes a hinge lever integrated with the lid 2a, and one end of a wire 23 is connected to its free end. Reference numerals 24a and 24b are first and second pulleys, which function as idlers for changing the extending direction of the wire 23.

Reference numeral 25 denotes a light-shielding plate having the other end of the wire 23 connected to the upper side thereof, and reference numeral 26 denotes a position between the lower side of the light-shielding plate 25 and a spring support member 27 which is positioned below and mounted inside the outer box 1. The light-shielding plate 25 is a tension spring
It has a function of constantly pulling in the direction of the space (light-shielding direction) between 0 and the first and second light receiving elements 11a and 11b.

Numeral 28 is a lid opening / closing detecting means constituted by a microcomputer or the like.
When the vibration determination unit 13 notifies that the output signals of the light intensity detection units 12a and 12b have become 0,
It has a function of outputting a lid open signal to the warning means 14 and the motor control means 15 to urge the user to issue a warning, and to stop the motor 7a in an emergency. Other configurations are the same as those of the above-described first and second embodiments.

Next, the operation of the vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to this embodiment will be described. When the user opens the lid 2a during spin-drying, the hinge lever 22 rotates clockwise. As a result, the distance between the wire connecting portion at the free end of the hinge lever 22 and the first pulley 24a is shortened, and the wire 2
3 acts to be fed downward. Since the wire 23 is constantly pulled by the tension spring 26, when the result of being fed out as described above is caused, the wire 23 travels while changing its direction along the first pulley 24a and the second pulley 24b by the action of the tension spring 26. Then, the light-shielding plate 25 disposed at the end of the wire 23 is lowered to shut off the space between the light-emitting body 10 and the first and second light-receiving elements 11a and 11b. as a result,
The output signals of the first and second light intensity detectors 12a and 12b both become 0.

The lid opening / closing detecting means 28 determines that the output signals of the first and second light intensity detecting means 12a and 12b are 0 for a certain period of time (for example, 0.5 seconds) even during dehydration.
A lid open signal is output to the warning unit 14 and the motor control unit 15.

The motor control means 15 includes the lid open / close detection means 2
When receiving the lid opening signal from the motor 8, the motor 7a is stopped immediately. When receiving the lid open signal from the lid open / close detector 28, the warning unit 14 issues a warning to the user to inform the user that the lid 2a is open.

As described above, that the lid 2a is open,
The luminous body 10 and the first and second light receiving elements 11a and 11b of the abnormal vibration detection circuit can be used without using a special sensor.
Can be detected by the light shielding plate 25.

Here, the light shielding plate 25 is connected to the tension spring 26
In this example, the light-shielding plate 25 is vertically tensioned by moving the light-shielding plate 25 in conjunction with the opening and closing operation of the lid 2a. Any mechanism may be employed as long as it can be moved forward and backward in the space direction between the light emitting body 10 and the first and second light receiving elements 11a and 11b in conjunction with the opening and closing operations of. For example, a light-shielding plate 25 is disposed so that the rotational movement of the lid 2a can be freely protruded and retracted in a space between the light-emitting body 10 and the first and second light-receiving elements 11a and 11b. In addition, a link mechanism or a gear mechanism for converting the rotational movement of the lid 2a into the movement of the light shielding plate 25 into and out of the space (vertical linear movement, horizontal linear movement, or rocking movement) may be provided. .

Further, here, an example in which a lid open / close detection device provided with a light-shielding plate and a slide mechanism thereof for the above-described first embodiment has been described as an example.
It goes without saying that the present invention is also applicable to the embodiment.
In this case, if the light shielding plate is slid or swung in the lateral direction, the stroke of the movement direction conversion mechanism can be reduced.

Embodiment 4 FIG. 16 shows claim 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 17 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view showing a main part of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, and FIG. 17 is a top view showing a state where a top cover of the washing machine is removed. In the figure,
Portions corresponding to the above-described first embodiment (FIG. 1) are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In each of the figures, reference numeral 1 denotes an outer box having an open upper surface;
Reference numeral 2 denotes a top cover having an openable / closable lid (not shown) and disposed so as to cover the upper opening of the outer box 1. Reference numeral 3 denotes a spring (FIG. 1).
5) is a washing and dewatering tank rotatably installed in the water receiving tank 3 and elastically suspended and supported by the outer box 1 via an elastic suspending mechanism 4 having a central bottom portion thereof. Has a rotating blade (see FIG. 1), and a dehydration hole 5a is provided in a side wall. The rotating wings and the washing and dewatering tub 5 are rotationally driven by a drive mechanism (see FIG. 1) including a motor, a speed reduction mechanism, and the like, disposed below the water receiving tub 3. 8 has a water supply valve 8a,
A water supply port 9 provided behind the top cover 2 is a balance ring for reducing vibration of the washing and dewatering tub 5 during dehydration. Reference numeral 10 denotes a light-emitting body such as an infrared light-emitting diode mounted on the outside of the water receiving tank 3, and reference numerals 11a and 11b denote phototransistors mounted on the inside of the outer box 1 so as to face the light-emitting body 10 and displace horizontally. And converts the intensity change of the incident light into a voltage. The light emitter 10 and the first and second light receiving elements 11a and 11b constitute a sensor section of the abnormal vibration detection circuit described in the first embodiment with reference to FIG.
Therefore, the configuration of the abnormal vibration detection circuit other than the sensor unit will be described with reference to FIG.

A plurality of reference numerals 31 are provided on a portion of the outer surface of the washing and dewatering tub 5 which is higher than the water level when the outer surface of the washing and dewatering tub 5 is full (here, the outer peripheral surface of the balance ring 9 which rotates together with the washing and dewatering tub 5). A blade 32 projecting from the water receiving tank 3 so as to open toward the light emitting body 10 and the first and second light receiving elements 11a and 11b;
The air passage opening 32 forms an air passage 33 that guides the wind generated by the blade 31 to the light emitting body 10 and the first and second light receiving elements 11a and 11b, which are the sensor unit of the abnormal vibration detection circuit. Other configurations are the same as those of the above-described first and second embodiments.

Next, the operation of the vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to this embodiment will be described. In the spin-drying operation, when the washing and spin-drying tub 5 rotates, the blade 31 also rotates in conjunction with the spin and generates wind. This wind is applied to the receiving tank 3 and the balance ring 9
And reaches the wind path 33, from the wind path opening 32 to the water receiving tank 3
Flows out in the direction of the arrow in the figure. This wind is luminous body 1
0 and the first and second light receiving elements 11a and 11b,
Remove any dust that adheres.

As described above, the blade 31 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the balance ring 9 which rotates together with the washing and dewatering tub 5 to generate wind when the washing and dewatering tub 5 rotates. Since the light-emitting body 10 and the first and second light-receiving elements 11a and 11b, which are the sensor unit of the abnormal vibration detection circuit, are guided, the light-emitting body 10 and the light-emitting body 10 can be connected without providing a special motor, an electric circuit, or the like. Dust adhering to the first and second light receiving elements 11a and 11b can be removed, and a decrease in detection accuracy due to aging can be prevented.

Although the blade 31 and the air passage 32 are added to the above-described first embodiment as an example, this is also applied to the above-described second and third embodiments. It goes without saying that it can be applied.

Embodiment 5 FIG. FIG. 18 shows claim 7 of the present invention.
11 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a main part of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment, FIG. 19 is an enlarged perspective view showing the stress detection device used in this embodiment, and FIG. 20 is a circuit diagram of the vibration detection device; In FIG. 18, portions corresponding to those in the above-described first embodiment (FIG. 1) are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In each of the figures, reference numeral 1 denotes an outer box having an open upper surface, the upper surface opening of which is covered with a top cover having an openable and closable lid, and a water supply port having a water supply valve is provided behind the top cover. I have. 3 is a water receiving tank elastically suspended and supported by the outer box 1 via an elastic suspension mechanism 4 having a spring 4a.
Reference numeral 5 denotes a washing and dewatering tub rotatably installed in the water receiving tub 3, a balance ring for reducing vibration during dehydration is provided at an upper edge portion thereof, and a rotary blade 6 is provided at a central bottom portion thereof. In addition, a dehydration hole 5a is provided on the side wall. The rotary wings 6 and the washing and dewatering tub 5 are rotationally driven by a driving mechanism 7 including a motor 7a, a speed reduction mechanism 7b, and the like disposed below the water receiving tub 3. Reference numeral 41 denotes a stress detecting device which is attached to the water receiving tank 3 so as to be perpendicular to the outer surface of the water receiving tank 3 so as to hang down on the lower surface of the base 7c of the drive mechanism 7.

As shown in FIG. 19, the stress detecting device 41 has a rectangular parallelepiped elastic column 4 formed on a sensor substrate 42.
3 and first to fourth strain gauges 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d adhered to the peripheral surface of the elastic column 43, respectively.
Filters 46a and 46b and amplifiers 47a and 47b are provided. Therefore, the first and third strain gauges 44a and 44c correspond to the X direction, and the second and fourth strain gauges 44b and 44d correspond to the Y direction.

Reference numeral 51a denotes a first horizontal body contact detecting means for receiving signals from the first and third strain gauges 44a and 44c corresponding to the X direction of the stress detecting device 41, 51
b is the second and fourth positions corresponding to the Y direction of the stress detection device 41.
The second body hit detecting means 52a in the horizontal direction which receives signals from the strain gauges 44b and 44d of the first direction, and the first means 52a in the horizontal direction which receives signals from the first and third strain gauges 44a and 44c corresponding to the X direction. Of the second and fourth strain gauges 44b, 4b corresponding to the Y direction.
The second acceleration detecting means 53 in the horizontal direction receiving the signal from 4d is a first and second body contact detecting means 51a, 53b.
51b and first and second acceleration detecting means 52a, 52b
Is a motor control means for controlling the motor 7a based on the detection result.

FIG. 21 shows the relationship between the amount of distortion and the output voltage. Here, a stress detector 41 which is adjusted so as to obtain an output voltage linearly with respect to the amount of distortion is used. Other configurations are the same as those of the above-described first and second embodiments.

Next, the operation of the vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to this embodiment will be described. In the dehydrating operation, when the water receiving tank 3 vibrates, it receives the stress and the elastic column 43 of the stress detecting device 41 bends. When the elastic column 43 bends, the stress is converted into an electric signal by each of the strain gauges 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d. Signals from the respective strain gauges are subjected to noise removal by filters 46a and 46b, and are output from amplifiers 47a and 46b.
It is amplified by 47b and sent to first and second body contact detecting means 51a, 51b and first and second acceleration detecting means 52a, 52b.

In the initial stage of dehydration, when there is no imbalance, the displacement of the water receiving tank 3 due to the dehydration vibration is small, and the acceleration is almost equal to zero. Therefore, the output signal level of the stress detecting device 28 is also substantially zero. Therefore, in the initial stage of dehydration, the detecting means 51a and 51b for each body usually use the electric signal converted by the stress detecting device 41 based on the electric signal.
Determine abnormal vibration.

On the other hand, when there is an imbalance, although the rotation of the washing and dewatering tub 5 is slow, the displacement from the center becomes large, and the water receiving tub 3 hits the outer box 1, which may cause a so-called body contact. . The acceleration due to the slow displacement is small, and the output of the stress detecting device 41 is almost 0.
It is. However, a sudden change due to the contact with the body acts as a stress on the elastic column 43, and is thus captured as an output of the stress detection device 41. FIG. 22 shows an example of the time-series data of the output waveform at that time. A body contact occurs at a portion indicated by an arrow in FIG.

As described above, in the initial stage of the dehydration, it is necessary to capture an extremely minute level of vibration, and therefore the first and second vibrations are required.
The threshold values set in the body contact detection means 51a and 51b are as shown by the broken lines in FIG.

In addition, since the vibration of the water receiving tank 3 becomes intense from the middle stage to the final stage of dehydration, when there is an imbalance, the elastic column 43 is subjected to an extremely large stress due to acceleration. FIG. 23 shows an example of time-series data of the output waveform of the stress detection device 41 at that time. As is clear from this time-series data, the output waveform of the stress detection device 41 can be regarded as a sine waveform having a phase shifted in the X direction and the Y direction and one cycle of one rotation of the washing and dewatering tub 5. . Therefore,
By providing a threshold value for the first and second acceleration detecting means 52a and 52b, it is possible to detect an acceleration danger area. The first and second acceleration detecting means 5 at this time
The thresholds 2a and 52b are naturally larger than the thresholds set in the first and second body contact detection means 51a and 51b.

As described above, by disposing the stress detecting device 41 in the vertical direction on the outer surface of the water receiving tank 3, abnormal vibration in the horizontal direction of the water receiving tank 3 during dehydration can be accurately detected.

Further, since the stress detecting device 41 captures a change in acceleration in principle, it is not necessary to make the alignment at the time of assembly more strict than the abnormal vibration detection method using the position detection sensor, and the sensor positioning management is simplified. can do.

Here, the configuration is such that four strain gauges are adhered, but a configuration may be employed in which one strain gauge is adhered in each of the X direction and the Y direction. In that case, the cost can be reduced by the reduction in the number of elements used.

Embodiment 6 FIG. FIG. 24 shows claim 7 of the present invention.
It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the principal part of the vibration detection apparatus of the washing machine concerning 8 and 11, and the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the part corresponding to 5th Embodiment (FIG. 18) mentioned above in the figure.

In the figure, reference numeral 1 denotes an outer box having an open upper surface.
The upper surface opening is covered with a top cover having a lid that can be opened and closed, and a water supply port having a water supply valve is provided behind the top cover. 3 is an elastic suspension mechanism 4 having a spring 4a
5 is a washing and dewatering tub rotatably installed in the water receiving tub 3 and is elastically suspended and supported by the outer box 1 through the upper portion. A balance ring is provided, a rotating blade 6 is provided at the center bottom, and a dewatering hole 5a is provided at a side wall. The rotary wings 6 and the washing and dewatering tub 5 are rotationally driven by a driving mechanism 7 including a motor 7a, a speed reduction mechanism 7b, and the like disposed below the water receiving tub 3. Reference numeral 41A denotes a stress detecting device which is attached to the water receiving tank 3 so as to extend in the horizontal direction on the side surface of the base 7c of the driving mechanism 7 so as to be perpendicular to the outer surface thereof. Since it is the same as that described in FIG. 19 of the fifth embodiment, in the following description, FIG.
Shall be referred to.

Reference numeral 51c denotes a vertical third body contact detecting means for receiving signals from the first and third strain gauges 44a and 44c corresponding to the X direction (vertical direction in this case) of the stress detecting device 41A. Fourth horizontal body contact detecting means 52c for receiving signals from the second and fourth strain gauges 44b and 44d corresponding to the Y direction (here, the horizontal direction) of the stress detecting device 41A, and 52c is the X direction (here, the (Vertical direction) corresponding to the first and third strain gauges 44a,
A vertical third acceleration detecting means 52d for receiving a signal from 44c, and a second horizontal acceleration detecting means 52d for receiving a signal from the second and fourth strain gauges 44b and 44d corresponding to the Y direction (here, the horizontal direction). Acceleration detecting means, 53A is the third
And motor control means for controlling the motor 7a based on the detection results of the fourth body contact detection means 51c and 51d and the third and fourth acceleration detection means 52c and 52d. The other configuration is the same as that of the fifth embodiment.

In the vibration detecting device of the washing machine of this embodiment, since the stress detecting device 41A is mounted horizontally with respect to the water receiving tank 3, the first and third strain gauges mounted on the stress detecting device 41A are provided. 44a and 44c correspond to the vertical direction, and the second and fourth strain gauges 44b and 44d
Corresponds to the horizontal direction. Therefore, not only the stress due to the vertical acceleration of the water receiving tank 3 but also the stress due to the horizontal acceleration of the water receiving tank 3 can be detected. Therefore, the vertical vibration and the horizontal vibration of the water receiving tank 3 can be detected more accurately.

Embodiment 7 FIG. 25 shows claim 7 of the present invention.
FIG. 26 is an enlarged exploded perspective view showing a main part of the vibration detecting device of the washing machine according to the embodiments 9 and 11, and FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view showing the stress detecting device used in this embodiment in an enlarged manner. Portions corresponding to the embodiment (FIGS. 18 and 19) are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In each of the figures, reference numeral 1 denotes an outer box having an open upper surface, the upper surface opening of which is covered by a top cover having an openable and closable lid, and a water supply port having a water supply valve is provided behind the top cover. I have. Reference numeral 3 denotes a water receiving tank elastically suspended and supported by an outer box via an elastic suspension mechanism having a spring. Reference numeral 5 denotes a washing and dewatering tank rotatably installed in the water receiving tank 3. Is provided with a balance ring for reducing vibration during dehydration, and a rotating blade 6 is provided at the center bottom thereof.
A dehydration hole 5a is provided on the side wall. The rotating wings 6 and the washing and dewatering tub 5 are provided with a motor 7 disposed below the water receiving tub 3.
a, and is rotationally driven by a drive mechanism 7 including a speed reduction mechanism. 41B has a plate-shaped stress transmitting member 61 having a weight 61a provided at the tip thereof, and a stress detecting device attached to a lower surface of a base or the like of the driving mechanism 7 so as to be perpendicular to the water receiving tank 3. It is.

As shown in FIG. 26, the stress detecting device 41B includes an elastic column 43 formed of a rectangular parallelepiped formed on a sensor substrate 42, a first strain gauge 44a attached to one side of the elastic column 43, Second strain gauge 44b attached to an adjacent surface orthogonal to the surface to which first strain gauge 44a is attached
And a connector 45 on the sensor board 42.
, A filter and an amplifier (see FIG. 20). On the upper surface of the elastic column 43, the base end of the stress transmitting member 61 whose center of gravity is at the front end is fixed by a screw 62 by a weight 61a, and when the stress detecting device 41B is attached to the water receiving tank 3, the stress transmitting member The member 61 extends in the horizontal direction, and the stress generated in the stress transmitting member 61 is transmitted to the elastic column 43 and detected by the second strain gauge 44b. Therefore, the first strain gauge 44a corresponds to the X direction (here, the horizontal direction), and the second strain gauge 44b corresponds to the Y direction (here, the vertical direction). The other configuration is the same as that of the fifth embodiment.

In the vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to this embodiment, the horizontal vibration of the water receiving tub 3 is detected by the first strain gauge 44a for detecting the X direction (horizontal direction) as a stress due to acceleration. Further, the vertical vibration of the water receiving tank 3 is transmitted to the center of gravity of the stress transmitting member 61 and converted into a stress due to acceleration, and then transmitted to the elastic column 43 to change the direction to the stress in the Y direction, and the Y direction (vertical). direction)
Is detected as a stress due to acceleration by the second strain gauge 44b for detecting. For this reason, the stress detection device 4
Even if 1B is attached to the lower surface of the base or the like of the driving mechanism 7 so as to be perpendicular to the water receiving tank 3, the vibration in the vertical direction and the vibration in the horizontal direction of the water receiving tank 3 can be detected. The degree of freedom in design expands.

[0092] Although the stress transmitting portion is formed of a separate member and is fixed to the upper surface of the elastic column 43 with the screw 62 as an example, this is explained here.
3 may be an integral structure extending from itself. In this case, it is not necessary to adjust the angle of the stress transmitting section.

Embodiment 8 FIG. FIG. 27 shows claim 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 28 is an enlarged perspective view showing the main part of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to 0 and 11, and FIG. 28 is an explanatory view of its operation. Are given the same reference numerals.

In each of the figures, reference numeral 2a denotes a lid attached to the upper part of the outer box via a hinge 21, and 2b denotes a hinge protrusion on the lid 2a side. A stress relief portion 2c is formed. Reference numeral 41C denotes a stress detecting device which is detachably attached to the outer surface of the hinge protruding portion 2b of the lid 2a.

The stress detecting device 41C includes an elastic column 43 formed of a rectangular parallelepiped and formed on a sensor substrate 42.
A first strain gauge 44a attached to one side surface of the first
And a second strain gauge 44b attached to an adjacent surface orthogonal to the surface to which the strain gauge 44a is attached. Further, a connector, a filter and an amplifier (see FIG. 20) are provided on the sensor substrate 42. Have been. On the upper surface of the elastic column 43, the base end of a plate-shaped stress transmitting member 71 having a standing portion 71a having a spring characteristic at the tip is fixed by a screw 72, and the stress detecting device 41C is attached to the outer case. In this case, the upright portion 71a can be engaged with and disengaged from the peripheral surface of the hinge protrusion 2b.

That is, when the lid 2a is closed as shown in FIG. 28 (a), the upright portion 71a of the stress transmitting member 71 is located in the area of the flat surface 2c of the hinge projection 2b, and Whether the portion 71a is separated from the flat surface 2c,
Or they are in a state of slight contact. Also, from the state in which the lid 2a shown in FIG. 28B is slightly opened to allow the user's finger to enter, to the fully opened state shown in FIG. 28C, the upright portion 71a of the stress transmitting member 71 is hinged. Part 2
b, it comes out of the flat surface area and engages with the peripheral surface, and the upright portion 71a is pressed by the cam action of the peripheral surface. The stress generated in the stress transmitting member 71 at this time is transmitted to the elastic column 43 and detected by the second strain gauge 44b. Therefore, the first strain gauge 44a corresponds to the X direction (here, the horizontal direction), and the second strain gauge 44b corresponds to the Y direction (here, the hinge protrusion rotating direction).

Reference numeral 73 denotes a high-pass filter which receives a signal from the first strain gauge 44a corresponding to the X direction (horizontal direction) of the stress detecting device 41C and extracts only a change due to horizontal vibration of the water receiving tank 3. Stress detection means,
74 is a lid opening / closing detecting means which is constituted by a low-pass filter which receives a signal from the second strain gauge 44b corresponding to the Y direction (the hinge projection rotating direction) of the stress detecting device 41C and takes out only a change due to lid opening / closing; 53B is a motor control means for controlling the motor 7a based on the detection results of the stress detection means 73 and the lid opening / closing detection means 74. The other configuration is the same as that of the fifth embodiment.

In the vibration detecting device for a washing machine of this embodiment, in the state shown in FIG. 28A in which the lid 2a is closed, the upright portion 71a of the stress transmitting member 71 is
b is located in the area of the flat surface 2c, and the upright portion 71a is separated from the flat surface 2c or in a state where both are slightly in contact with each other. Is not applied to the output.

On the other hand, in the state in which the lid 2a is slightly opened to the fully opened state, that is, in the state from (b) in FIG. 28 to (c) in FIG. 28, the peripheral surface of the hinge projection 2b acts by the cam action. The upright portion 71a is in a pressed state. This force acts on the elastic column 43 as a stress, and a voltage proportional to the stress is output from the second strain gauge 44b.

FIG. 29 is a time series graph of an output waveform due to unbalance vibration of the water receiving tank and opening and closing of the lid 2a. FIG. 29 (a) shows the voltage fluctuation due to the vibration of the water receiving tank. The output voltage is obtained by superimposing voltage fluctuations caused by the above.

(B) of FIG. 29 is obtained by extracting only the change due to the vibration of the water receiving tank from the waveform of (a) of FIG. 29, and includes a stress detecting means 73 composed of a high-pass filter.
Obtained by the following method. Stress detector 4
1C attached to the outer box, the stress detection device 41
Although the output of C is slightly weak, it is not at a level buried in noise, so that abnormal vibration can be easily detected, workability is good, and maintenance is easy.

(C) in FIG. 29 is obtained by extracting only the change due to the opening and closing of the lid from the waveform of (a) in FIG. 29, and can be obtained by the lid opening and closing detecting means 74 comprising a low-pass filter. Since the opening and closing of the lid is at a much lower frequency than the vibration of the water receiving tank, it is not affected by the vibration level of the water receiving tank. By determining that the lid is open when the peak value of the vibration exceeds the threshold value indicated by the broken line, it is possible to easily detect whether the lid is opened or closed. For this reason, lid opening / closing detection can be easily and reliably performed by the vibration detection device.

Here, the threshold value for determining that the lid is open has been described using the composite waveform (a) in FIG. 29 for convenience of explanation. For this reason, the threshold value is set so that the lid is determined to be open when the lid 2a is fully opened. However, to ensure security, the threshold should be set as low as possible. In this embodiment, since only the change due to the lid opening / closing is extracted by the lid opening / closing detecting means 74 composed of a low-pass filter, the threshold value is set to a low value using the waveform of only the variation due to the lid opening / closing. And safety can be easily ensured.

Here, a stress transmitting member 71 having an upright portion 71a having a spring characteristic is attached to the elastic column 43 of the stress detecting device 41C, and the elastic column 43 is moved through the hinge transmitting portion 2b via the stress transmitting member 71. In the above description, the elastic column 43 may be directly engaged with and disengaged from the hinge protrusion 2b.
In short, any configuration may be employed as long as a stress is applied to the elastic column 43 by opening and closing the lid.

Here, the second strain gauge 44b corresponding to the Y direction is connected only to the lid opening / closing detecting means 74 composed of a low-pass filter and used as a sensor dedicated to lid opening / closing detection. As described above, a second stress detecting means composed of a high-pass filter receiving a signal from the second strain gauge 44b is newly provided so that a change due to vibration in the Y direction (horizontal direction in this case) is also taken out. You may. In this case, the elastic column 43 is restricted by the hinge projecting portion 2b of the lid 2a via the stress transmitting member 71,
The mechanical resistance from the hinge projecting portion 2b becomes an obstacle in extracting the vibration component in the Y direction. This obstacle is applied in advance with a reverse bias corresponding to the mechanical resistance from the hinge projecting portion 2b. Can be removed.

Embodiment 9 FIG. FIG. 30 shows claim 12 of the present invention.
FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing a control board on which the stress detection device of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the third embodiment is mounted, and in the drawing, the portions corresponding to the above-described fifth embodiment (FIG. 19) are denoted by the same reference numerals. .

In the figure, reference numeral 41 denotes a stress detecting device similar to that described with reference to FIG. 19, and a strain gauge is attached to the elastic column 43 and is mounted in the control board 81. On the control board 81, an operation switch 82, electronic parts 83 of switching elements for controlling a display output, a motor and the like, and a microcomputer 84 for controlling these are mounted. Reference numeral 85 denotes a substrate cover that fixes and supports the control substrate 81 inside by pouring urethane resin therein, and is provided in the top panel on the upper surface of the outer box so that operation switches 82 and the like can be provided via the top panel. Operation is possible.

In the vibration detecting device of the washing machine of this embodiment, since the stress detecting device 41 is directly mounted on the control board 81, the connection of the signal lines between them as in the case of a separate type is provided. This eliminates the need to reduce costs and improve reliability. Further, assemblability is improved, and space can be saved.

Although the stress detecting device 41 is fixedly supported by urethane resin in the substrate cover 85 together with the control substrate 81 on which the stress detecting device 41 is mounted, the stress detecting device 41 has been described as an example. To avoid
The stress detection device may be covered with a cover.

[0110]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the light-emitting element is mounted on the outer surface of the water receiving tank, and the light-receiving element facing the light-emitting element is mounted on the inner surface of the outer box. Is input to the light intensity detecting means to detect the light intensity, and the vibration determining means determines abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank based on the detection result of the light intensity detecting means. In this regard, it is possible to grasp how the vibration value of the water receiving tank changes continuously from the start of the spin-drying operation.
For this reason, even if positioning is not so strictly performed, initial setting (reset) is easy, and it is possible to determine whether vibration during dehydration is at an allowable level or an abnormal level. Therefore, even if the washing machine is installed with a slight inclination, the initial setting (reset) according to this inclination can be performed to make the actual abnormal inclination (abnormal vibration) occurring during use and the inclination when stopped. Can be distinguished, and abnormal vibration can be determined. Furthermore, since there is no movable portion such as a lever that comes in contact with the device, reliability can be improved.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, a plurality of light receiving elements are provided so as to be displaced in the horizontal direction, and a plurality of light intensity detecting means are provided corresponding to the plurality of light receiving elements. Since the abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank is determined based on the detection results of the plurality of light intensity detecting means,
It is possible to determine the abnormal vibration in the lateral direction of the water receiving tank more accurately than when only one is installed, and it is also possible to absorb variations in element quality and errors in the positional relationship of elements during assembly. Variations in the detection accuracy between the bodies of the vibration detection device can be reduced, and the reliability is improved.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, a plurality of luminous elements mounted on the inner surface of the outer box are vertically displaced from each other, and the signals of these light receiving elements are inputted to the light intensity detecting means. The light intensity is detected, the weight in the water receiving tank is detected at the time of water supply by the weight detection means based on the detection result of the light intensity detection means, and the water supply valve is controlled by the water supply valve drive control means based on the detection result of the weight detection means. Since the opening and closing control is performed, the sinking amount due to the change in the internal weight (water amount) of the water receiving tank can be detected without using an expensive weight sensor or a water level sensor, and the cost can be reduced.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the signals of the plurality of light receiving elements arranged in the vertical direction are input to the corresponding light intensity detecting means to detect the light intensity, and each light intensity detecting means is detected. Since the abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank is determined by the vibration determining means on the basis of the detection result, abnormal vibration in the vertical direction of the water receiving tank can be accurately detected.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the light-shielding plate is provided so as to be able to protrude and retract in the space between the light-emitting body and the light-receiving element, and the movement of the cover when opening and closing is controlled by the movement direction conversion mechanism. The light is converted into a movement of the light shielding plate into and out of the space, and the open / closed state of the lid is detected by the lid open / close detection means based on the detection result of the light intensity detection means. Since the water tank is stopped, the lid open state can be detected by using the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the abnormal vibration detection circuit without using a special sensor. For this reason, safety can be improved while reducing costs.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, outwardly protruding blades are installed at a plurality of locations in the circumferential direction of the outer surface of the washing and dewatering tub at a position higher than the water level when the tank is full. Since the water receiving tub is provided with an air path for guiding the wind generated by the blade rotating together with the washing and dewatering tub to the light emitting element and the light receiving element during the rotation of the washing and dewatering tub, without providing a special motor, an electric circuit, or the like, It is possible to remove dust adhering to the light-emitting body and the light-receiving element, and prevent a decrease in detection accuracy due to aging.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the elastic column is attached to the water receiving tank so as to be perpendicular to the outer surface thereof, the strain gauge is attached to the elastic column, and the elastic column is bent. Since the signal of the strain gauge is inputted to the body contact detecting means to detect the dangerous area of the water receiving tank at the time of the dewatering process, the body contact of the water receiving tank at the time of dehydration can be detected with high accuracy.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the elastic column extends horizontally and is attached to the side surface of the water receiving tank so that the strain gauge corresponds to the vertical direction. The gauge signal is input to the acceleration detection means to detect the vertical acceleration danger area of the water receiving tank during the dehydration process, so that it is possible to accurately detect abnormal vertical vibration of the water receiving tank during dehydration. it can.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the elastic column is attached to the lower surface of the water receiving tank so as to hang down, and the stress transmitting portion having the center of gravity at the tip is attached to the extension end of the elastic column to the strain gauge. Correspondingly, it is provided so as to extend in the horizontal direction, and the signal of the strain gauge is input to the acceleration detection means to detect the vertical acceleration danger area of the water receiving tank at the time of the dehydration step. Even if it is attached to the lower surface side of the water tank, the vibration in the vertical direction can be detected, and the degree of freedom in design is expanded.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, an openable / closable lid attached to the upper part of the outer box via a hinge is attached to the outer box so as to be detachable and engageable with the lid when the lid is opened. The lid is set so that stress is not applied by closing the lid, and a strain gauge is attached to the elastic column to correspond to the deflection when the lid is opened, and the elastic column is bent when the lid is opened. Is input to the lid opening / closing detection means to detect lid opening / closing during the dehydration process, so that the vibration detection device can easily and reliably detect lid opening / closing without providing a new lid opening / closing sensor. It can be carried out. Furthermore, since the elastic column is usually arranged above the outer box in which the control board is housed, the power line and the signal line need to have the shortest lengths, so that the cost can be reduced and the signal line can be shortened. The performance is also improved. The workability is good and the maintenance is easy.

According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, a new strain gauge is attached to the elastic column in a direction perpendicular to the strain gauge, and a signal of the newly attached strain gauge is used as an acceleration detecting means. In the dehydration process, the horizontal acceleration danger region of the water receiving tank is detected, so that abnormal horizontal vibration of the water receiving tank at the time of dewatering can be accurately detected.

According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, since the elastic columns to which the strain gauges are attached are directly attached to the control board, the signal lines are separated from each other as in the case of a separate type. No connection is required, cost can be reduced, and reliability can be improved. Further, assemblability is improved, and space can be saved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating an entire configuration of a washing machine for explaining a vibration detection device of the washing machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view showing a state in which a top cover of the washing machine of the vibration detection device for the washing machine according to the first embodiment is removed.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a directional characteristic of a light-emitting body of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a directional characteristic of a light receiving element of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a possible positional relationship between a light emitting element and a light receiving element of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an output waveform of a light intensity detecting unit at the time of dehydration when the imbalance of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment is small.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a relationship between a position of a light emitter and an output signal of a light receiving element of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an output waveform of the light intensity detecting means at the time of dehydration when the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment has a large imbalance.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an output waveform of the light intensity detection unit at the time of dehydration when the imbalance of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment is medium.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an output waveform of the light intensity detecting means at the time of spin-drying when the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the first embodiment hits the body;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged vertical sectional view of a main part showing a state before water supply of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged vertical sectional view of a main part showing a state in which water has entered a water receiving tank up to a rated water amount of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an output waveform of a light intensity detecting means of the vibration detecting device of the washing machine according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of a main part showing a state when a lid of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a third embodiment of the present invention is closed.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of a main part showing a state in which a lid of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a third embodiment is opened.

FIG. 16 is an enlarged longitudinal sectional view of a main part of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a top view showing a state in which a top cover of the vibration detection device for a washing machine according to the fourth embodiment is removed.

FIG. 18 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating a main part of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is an enlarged perspective view showing a stress detection device of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a circuit diagram of a vibration detection device of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a distortion amount and an output voltage of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating time-series data of an output waveform of the stress detection device when the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment hits the body;

FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating time-series data of an output waveform of the stress detection device when abnormal vibration of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment has occurred.

FIG. 24 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a main part of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a main part of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view showing a stress detection device of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a seventh embodiment in an enlarged manner.

FIG. 27 is an enlarged perspective view showing a main part of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 28 is an explanatory diagram of an operation of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the eighth embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a time-series graph of an output waveform due to unbalance vibration and opening / closing of a lid of the vibration detection device of the washing machine according to the eighth embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing a control board on which a stress detection device of a vibration detection device of a washing machine according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention is mounted.

FIG. 31 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the entire configuration of a washing machine for explaining a conventional vibration detection device for a washing machine.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 outer box, 2a lid, 2b hinge protrusion (engagement part with elastic column of lid), 3 water receiving tank, 4 elastic suspension mechanism, 5 washing and dewatering tank, 7a motor, 8a water supply valve, 10 light emitter, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d Light receiving element, 12
a, 12b, 12c, 12d light intensity detecting means, 13,
13A vibration determination means, 15, 15A, 53, 53A,
53B motor control means, 16 weight detection means, 17
Water supply valve drive control means, 22 hinge lever (movement direction conversion mechanism), 23 wires (movement direction conversion mechanism), 24
a, 24b pulley (movement direction changing mechanism), 25 light shielding plate 26 tension spring (movement direction changing mechanism), 28, 74 lid opening / closing detecting means, 31 blade, 32 air passage opening, 33
Wind path, 43 elastic columns, 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d
Strain gauges, 51a, 51b, 51c, 51d body contact detecting means, 52a, 52b, 52c, 52d acceleration detecting means, 61 stress transmitting member (stress transmitting section), 7
1 stress transmission member (engagement part of elastic column with lid), 81 control board.

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing from the front page (72) Inventor Masafumi Nagata 2-3-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Inside Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (72) Inventor Masayuki Watakuchi 1-1-1 Yamate, Funabashi-shi, Chiba Japan Within Ken Steel Corporation

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. A washing machine having a washing tub with a washing and dewatering tub that is rotated and driven by a motor, and an outer box that suspends and supports the washing tub, wherein: a luminous body mounted on the outer surface of the receiving tub; A light receiving element mounted on the inner surface of the outer box so as to face the light emitter, a light intensity detecting means for inputting a signal of the light receiving element to detect light intensity, and based on a detection result of the light intensity detecting means. A vibration detection device for a washing machine, comprising: vibration determination means for determining abnormal vibration of a water receiving tank; and motor control means for rotating or stopping the motor based on a determination result of the vibration determination means. 2. A plurality of light receiving elements are disposed so as to be displaced in the horizontal direction, and a plurality of light intensity detecting means are provided corresponding to the plurality of light receiving elements, and the plurality of light intensity detecting means are determined by vibration judging means. 2. The vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to claim 1, wherein abnormal vibration of the water receiving tub is determined based on the detection result of the washing machine. 3. A washing machine having a washing tub and a washing / dehydrating tub that is rotated and driven by a motor, and an outer box that suspends and supports the washing tub, wherein: a luminous body mounted on an outer surface of the receiving tub; A plurality of light-receiving elements are mounted so as to be displaced in the vertical direction from the inner surface of the outer box in opposition to the light-emitting body, and a plurality of light-receiving elements are installed in correspondence with these light-receiving elements, and the signals of these light-receiving elements are input, and Light intensity detecting means for detecting light intensity, weight detecting means for detecting the weight in the water receiving tank at the time of water supply based on the detection results of these light intensity detecting means, and a water supply valve based on the detection result of the weight detecting means. A vibration detection device for a washing machine, comprising: a water supply valve drive control unit that controls opening and closing of the water supply valve. 4. A vibration judging means for judging abnormal vibration of the water receiving tank based on a detection result of each light intensity detecting means, a motor control means for rotating or stopping a motor based on a judgment result of the vibration judging means, The vibration detecting device for a washing machine according to claim 3, further comprising: 5. A light-shielding plate disposed so as to be able to protrude and retract in a space between a light-emitting body and a light-receiving element, and a light-shielding plate disposed between the light-shielding plate and an openable / closable lid covering an upper opening of an outer box. A movement direction conversion mechanism for converting the rotational movement of the lid when the lid is opened and closed into a movement of the light-shielding plate into and out of the space, and detecting the open / closed state of the lid based on the detection result of the light intensity detection means, and dehydrating. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: a cover opening / closing detection unit that instructs the motor control unit to stop the motor when the cover is opened. Vibration detector. 6. An outwardly protruding blade is installed at a plurality of circumferential positions on a portion of the outer surface of the washing and dewatering tub that is higher than the water level when the tank is full, and the washing and dewatering tub is installed in the receiving tub. The vibration of the washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein an air path is provided for guiding wind generated by the blade rotating together with the water tank to the light emitting element and the light receiving element. Detection device. 7. A washing machine having a water receiving tub internally provided with a washing and dewatering tub rotatably driven by a motor, and an outer box for suspending and supporting the water receiving tub, wherein the water receiving tub has a direction perpendicular to an outer surface thereof. An elastic column attached to the elastic column; a strain gauge attached to the elastic column; and a body for inputting a signal of the strain gauge due to deflection of the elastic column and detecting a dangerous area per body of the water receiving tank during a dehydrating step. A vibration detection device for a washing machine, comprising: hit detection means; and motor control means for rotating or stopping the motor based on a detection result of the body hit detection means. 8. A dewatering step in which the elastic column is horizontally extended and attached to the side surface of the water receiving tank so that the strain gauge corresponds to the vertical direction, and a signal of the strain gauge due to the bending of the elastic column is inputted. 8. An acceleration detecting means for detecting a vertical acceleration danger area of the water receiving tank at a time, and motor control means for rotating or stopping a motor based on a detection result of the acceleration detecting means. A vibration detection device for a washing machine as described in the above. 9. A resilient column is attached to a lower surface of a water receiving tank by hanging the resilient column, and a stress transmitting portion having a center of gravity at a tip is horizontally extended at an extending end of the resilient column so as to correspond to a strain gauge. And an acceleration detecting means for inputting a signal of a strain gauge to detect a vertical acceleration danger area of the water receiving tank at the time of the spin-drying step; and rotating or stopping the motor based on a detection result of the acceleration detecting means. The vibration detection device for a washing machine according to claim 7, further comprising: a motor control unit that causes the motor to perform a vibration control. 10. A water receiving tub having a washing and dewatering tub rotatably driven by a motor therein, an outer box for suspending and supporting the water receiving tub, and an openable and closable attached to an upper portion of the outer box via a hinge. In a washing machine having a lid, an elastic column which is attached to the outer box so as to be disengageable from the lid side, engages with the lid when the lid is opened, applies stress, and does not receive stress by closing the lid. A strain gauge attached to the elastic column so as to correspond to the deflection when the lid is opened; and a lid opening and closing for inputting a signal of the strain gauge due to the deflection when the lid of the elastic column is opened and detecting the opening and closing of the lid during the dehydration process. A vibration detecting device for a washing machine, comprising: detecting means; and motor control means for rotating or stopping the motor based on a detection result of the lid opening / closing detecting means. 11. A strain gauge newly attached to the elastic column so as to be perpendicular to the strain gauge, and a signal of the newly attached strain gauge is inputted to input a signal of the strain gauge in the horizontal direction of the water receiving tank during the dewatering step. 11. An acceleration detecting means for detecting an acceleration danger area, and a motor control means for rotating or stopping a motor based on a detection result of the acceleration detecting means. A vibration detection device for a washing machine according to any of claims 1 to 3. 12. A control board for controlling a washing machine disposed inside or on an upper surface of an outer box, and an elastic column having a strain gauge attached thereto and mounted on the control board. Washing machine vibration detection device.