JPH0775697A - Fully automatic washing machine - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [Purpose] The operability when selecting and setting the washing course is greatly improved, and the operability is maintained well even if the strength and weakness of the washing operation can be finely set. A fully automatic washing machine of the present invention includes a washing operation function for automatically executing a washing course including a washing step, a rinsing step, and a dehydrating step. The operation dial 34 is rotated on the operation panel 18. In addition to being operably provided, the operation intensity of the laundry course can be changed and set to, for example, 10 steps in accordance with the rotation operation of the operation dial 34, and the operation intensity of each stroke can be changed in accordance with the rotation operation of the operation dial 34. For example, the operating intensity can be changed and set in 10 steps, for example.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a fully automatic washing machine having a washing operation function for automatically executing a washing course including a washing step, a rinsing step and a dehydrating step.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a fully automatic washing machine of this kind, a desired one can be selected from a plurality of washing courses and executed, and a user can select a course switching key provided on an operation panel. Is pressed to set a desired selected course. In this case, the plurality of laundry courses are composed of a laundry course that specifies the strength of driving, a laundry course suitable for the type of laundry, a laundry course that performs a special washing method, etc. There is a laundry course that has been set up.

[0003]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional structure, when a desired one is selected from a plurality of washing courses, the number of times of pressing the course switching key is considerably increased depending on the type of the washing course. However, there was a drawback that the selection operation was troublesome. Further, among the plurality of washing courses, it is usual that only three types of washing courses of “standard”, “powerful”, and “delicate” are prepared as the courses for designating the driving strength. Therefore, it is not satisfactory for the user who wants to specify the strength of the washing operation more finely. On the other hand, it is easy to set a large number of courses that specify the strength of driving in stages, but in this case,
When the laundry course is selected, the number of times the course switching key is pressed is further increased, and the selection operation becomes more troublesome.

Further, in the conventional fully automatic washing machine, the water level in the tub is automatically set or manually set based on the detection result of the amount of cloth. The washing operation is executed at the set water level. In this case, there was no way to increase or decrease the amount of water in the tub even if the user looked at the inside of the tub during the washing operation and felt that he wanted to add a little more water or a little less water. Therefore, it cannot be said that the user-friendliness is sufficient for the user.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to greatly improve the operability when selecting and setting a laundry course,
Another object of the present invention is to provide a fully automatic washing machine that can maintain good operability even when the strength of washing operation can be specified in detail. Another object of the present invention is to provide a fully automatic washing machine capable of increasing or decreasing the amount of water in the tub during the washing operation and further improving the usability.

[0006]

A fully automatic washing machine according to the present invention is a fully automatic washing machine having a washing operation function for automatically executing a washing course consisting of a washing step, a rinsing step and a dehydrating step. A place provided with an operation dial movably provided, and an operation intensity changing means for changing at least one of the operation intensity of the laundry course and the operation intensity of each of the strokes in accordance with the rotating operation of the operation dial. It is characterized by

Here, the operating strength changing means changes the washing time and the water flow intensity for the washing process and the water flow intensity for the rinsing process when changing the operating intensity of the washing course. Regarding the process, it is also preferable that the dehydration time and the rotation speed of the rotary tank are changed. Further, the operation intensity changing means is configured to change the water flow intensity for the washing process and the rinsing process and change the rotation speed of the rotary tank for the dehydration process when changing the operation intensity of each of the processes. Can also be considered.

Furthermore, a washing selection key provided for pressing operation for selecting a washing step, a rinsing selection key provided for pressing operation for selecting a rinsing step, and provided for pressing operation for dehydration A dehydration selection key for selecting a stroke is provided, and a washing step is selected according to the pressing operation of the washing selection key and the washing time is changed, and a rinsing step is selected according to the pressing operation of the rinsing selection key. In addition, it is also a preferable aspect to provide a stroke selection changing means for changing the rinsing frequency, selecting the dehydration step in accordance with the pressing operation of the dehydration selection key, and changing the dehydration time.

Further, driving intensity display means for displaying the driving intensity stepwise may be provided. Then, in this configuration, when each operation intensity of the washing process, rinsing process or dehydration process is changed, during each operation of the washing process, rinsing process or dehydration process, the changed operation intensity is displayed on the operation intensity display means. It is also preferable to display instead of the current display. On the other hand, it is also possible to provide a numerical display means for displaying the rotational speed of the stirring body or the rotary tank as a number as the content of the operation intensity.

Further, it is conceivable to provide a water level selection setting means for selectively setting the water level in accordance with the turning operation of the operation dial in the operation mode for setting the water level. Further, in an operation mode for setting the time such as the current time or the reserved time, a time setting means for setting the time in accordance with the turning operation of the operation dial may be provided. Furthermore, it is also preferable to include water flow intensity changing means for immediately changing the water flow intensity according to the turning operation of the operation dial during each operation of washing or rinsing. It is also conceivable to provide a rotation speed changing means for changing the rotation speed of the rotary tank immediately in response to the turning operation of the operation dial during the dehydration operation.

On the other hand, an illumination lamp for illuminating the inside of the rotary tank is provided,
The illumination control means may be configured to turn on the illumination lamp in accordance with the turning operation of the operation dial during each operation of washing, rinsing or dehydration. In this case, it is preferable that the illumination lamp is turned on in response to the first turning operation of the operation dial, and the change contents such as the water flow intensity are changed by the subsequent turning operation of the operation dial. Further, a buzzer may be provided, and the buzzer may be configured to ring when the illumination lamp is turned on in response to the turning operation of the operation dial. Further, a numerical display means for displaying the rotational speed of the agitator and the rotary tank as a number as the content of the operation intensity is provided, and the illumination lamp is turned off after a set time elapses from the time when the operation dial is not rotated. At the same time, it is also preferable that the remaining operating time is displayed on the numeral display means.

Further, it is conceivable that the operation dial is provided so as to be rotatable even in a state in which the lid for closing and loading the laundry is closed. Further, the operation dial may be provided so as to be retractable from the operation panel. Furthermore, it is also preferable that the operation dial is provided so that a feeling of nodal motion can be obtained each time the operation dial is rotated by a set angle.

Further, the operation dial is rotatably provided, and water amount adjusting means for increasing / decreasing the amount of water in the tank is provided by opening / closing the water supply valve or the drain valve in accordance with the rotation operation of the operation dial. It is also conceivable to configure it. In this case, a water amount adjustment setting key for setting the operation mode in which the amount of water in the tank can be adjusted is provided, and when the water amount adjustment setting key is operated, the amount of water in the tank is changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial. May be adjusted.

Further, it is also preferable that the water amount adjusting means is configured to increase or decrease the amount of water in the tank by the amount of water according to the turning angle of the operation dial. Also,
It is conceivable to provide a display device for displaying the amount of increase or decrease of the amount of water in the tank. Furthermore, when increasing or decreasing the amount of water in the tank by the water amount adjusting means, it is even more preferable to set a maximum increase amount or a maximum decrease amount.

[0015]

According to the above-mentioned means, the driving intensity of the washing course is changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial. Even when selecting, the operation dial only needs to be rotated, and the operation is a one-touch operation. Therefore, compared to the configuration in which the course switching key is pressed many times, the operation to select the driving intensity of the washing course is significantly To be easy.
Also, since the operation intensity of the washing process, the rinsing process and the dehydration process is changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial, each operation intensity of each process can be manually set, for example, in multi-steps. Even if it is configured, the selection setting operation for that purpose becomes easy.

Further, when the operation intensity of the washing course is changed, the washing time and the water flow intensity are changed for the washing process, the water flow intensity is changed for the rinsing process, and the dehydration time and the rotary tank for the dehydration process. If it is configured to change the rotation speed of, the driving intensity can be finely changed. Further, when changing the operating strength of each of the washing process, the rinsing process and the dehydrating process, the water flow intensity is changed for the washing process and the rinsing process, and the rotation speed of the rotary tank is changed for the dehydrating process. You can make fine changes in the same way.

On the other hand, the washing process is selected and the washing time is changed according to the pressing operation of the washing selection key, the rinsing process is selected and the rinsing frequency is changed according to the pressing operation of the rinsing selection key, and the dehydration selection key is selected. Since the dehydration process is selected and the dehydration time is changed according to the pressing operation of, the operating time and the number of times of operation can be set to desired values for each process.

Further, if the driving intensity display means for displaying the driving intensity in stages is provided, it becomes easy to change the driving intensity. In this configuration, when each operation intensity of the washing process, rinsing process or dehydration process is changed and set, during each operation of washing, rinsing or dehydration, the changed operation intensity should be displayed on the operation intensity display means. For example, the set strength of the running operation can be easily recognized during the execution of each operation. Further, if a numerical display means for displaying the rotational speed of the stirring body or the rotary tank as a numerical value is provided as the content of the operation intensity, it becomes possible to recognize the content of the operation intensity with a specific numerical value. It can be clearly confirmed.

On the other hand, in the operation mode for setting the water level, if the water level is selectively set according to the turning operation of the operation dial, the operation for selectively setting the water level becomes simple. Further, in the operation mode for setting the time such as the current time or the reserved time, if the time is set in accordance with the turning operation of the operation dial, the operation for setting the time is significantly simplified. Furthermore, if the water flow intensity is changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial during each washing or rinsing operation, the changed water flow intensity can be visually confirmed in real time. Since the rotation speed of the rotary tank is changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial even during the dehydration operation, the changed rotation speed can be confirmed in real time.

On the other hand, an illumination lamp for illuminating the inside of the rotary tank is provided,
If the illumination lamp is turned on according to the turning operation of the operation dial during each operation of washing, rinsing or dehydration, the inside of the rotating tank during each operation can be clearly seen, and the operation strength can be improved. Easy to check. In this case, when the operation dial is turned to turn on the illumination lamp, the water flow intensity and the like are not changed by the turning operation of the operation dial when the illumination is turned on. It can be used both as a lighting switch and a switch for changing the water flow strength. Further, since a buzzer is provided and the buzzer is made to ring when the operation dial is turned to turn on the illumination lamp, the buzzer sounds so that the turning operation of the operation dial at the time of the ringing is performed by the illumination lamp. It can be recognized that the operation is for turning on.

Further, after the set time has elapsed from the time when the operation dial was not rotated, the illumination lamp is turned off and the remaining operating time is displayed on the numeral display means, so that the illumination lamp is prevented from being forgotten. At the same time, the time until the end of the washing operation (remaining operation time) can be visually confirmed.
Further, since the operation dial is provided so that it can be rotated even when the entrance for loading and unloading laundry is closed by the lid, the operation dial can be operated even during the dehydration operation, and the rotary tub can be operated. It is possible to change the rotation speed of. In addition, since the operation dial is installed on the operation panel so that it can be retracted, it is easy to rotate if the operation dial is projected, and conversely, if the operation dial is in the non-projection state, when packing or opening and closing the lid. The operation dial does not get in the way. Furthermore, since the operation dial is provided so that a feeling of motion can be obtained each time the operation dial is rotated by a set angle, it is easy to distinguish the lighting operation and the setting change operation, and the operability of the operation dial is improved. .

Further, since the water quantity adjusting means for increasing / decreasing the water quantity in the tub by opening / closing the water supply valve or the drain valve according to the turning operation of the operation dial is provided, the user is in the middle of the washing operation. If the user wants to add a little more water to the tank, or wants to reduce a little more water, the amount of water in the tank can be increased or decreased by simply turning the operation dial. In this case, since the water amount adjustment setting key for setting the operation mode in which the water amount in the tank can be adjusted is provided, since the water amount in the tank can be adjusted when the water amount adjustment setting key is operated, The operation dial can also be used as an operation means for selecting and setting other functions.

Further, since the amount of water in the tank is increased or decreased by the amount of water corresponding to the turning angle of the operation dial, the operation of designating the amount of water to be increased or decreased is simple.
Further, since the display device for displaying the increase amount or the decrease amount of the water amount in the tank is provided, the user can surely recognize the increase amount or the decrease amount of the water amount. Furthermore, since the maximum increase amount or the maximum decrease amount is set and limited, it is possible to prevent an erroneous operation in which the amount of water in the tank is excessively increased or decreased.

[0024]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. First, in FIG. 2 showing the overall configuration of the fully automatic washing machine, inside the outer box 1,
The water receiving tank 2 is elastically supported so as to be swingable. In the water receiving tank 2, a rotating tank 3 which also serves as a washing tank and a dehydrating tank is arranged, and an agitator 4 is arranged at an inner bottom portion of the rotating tank 3. Further, on the outer bottom of the water receiving tank 2, a motor 5 and a drive mechanism section 6 for washing and dehydrating operations are arranged.
The rotational force of the motor 5 is transmitted to the drive mechanism section 6 via the belt transmission mechanism 7.

The motor 5 is composed of, for example, a DC brushless motor, and the rotation speed thereof can be freely varied. In addition, the drive mechanism unit 6
Is configured by incorporating a gear reduction device, a clutch mechanism, a brake device, etc., the rotational force of the motor 5 is decelerated and transmitted only to the stirring body 4 at the time of washing and rinsing, and at the time of dehydration. It is configured to be transmitted to the rotary tank 3 and the agitator 4 so as to integrally rotate both at a high speed.

A drain valve 8 for opening and closing the drain port 8 is provided at the drain port 8 formed at the bottom of the water receiving tank 2. An air trap 10 is provided adjacent to the drain port 8, and a water level sensor 11 (see FIG. 3) is connected to the air trap 10 via an air tube 12. The water level sensor 11 is composed of, for example, a pressure sensor, and is configured to output a water level detection signal corresponding to the pressure in the air trap 10, that is, the water level in the water receiving tank 2 (rotating tank 3). The water level sensor 11 is arranged in a rear portion of an upper cover 13 mounted on the upper portion of the outer box 1. A water supply valve 14 (see FIG. 3) for supplying water into the rotary tank 3 is provided at a rear portion of the upper cover 13.

The upper cover 13 is formed with an inlet / outlet opening 15 so as to face the openings in the upper portions of the water receiving tub 2 and the rotary tub 3, and the laundry is put in / out through the inlet / outlet opening 15. It is configured to do. On the left side of the rear of the opening edge of the entrance / exit opening 15, an in-tank illumination lamp 16 is disposed as an illumination lamp so as to face downward. By turning on the in-tank illumination lamp 16, the inside of the rotary tank 3 is illuminated brightly. Further, the upper cover 13 is provided with, for example, a half-foldable lid 17 so as to open and close the access port 15. The lid 17 has a window (not shown) made of a transparent member for visually recognizing the inside of the rotary tank 3.
Is provided. In this case, when the lid 17 is opened, the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is turned on, and when the lid 17 is closed, the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is turned off. Further, at the front part of the upper cover 13, an operation panel 18 as shown in FIG. 1 is arranged.

As shown in FIG. 1, the operation panel 18 is provided with various operation keys and a display. Specifically, as the various operation keys, a clock setting key 19 for setting an operation mode for setting the time, a water level setting key 20 for setting the water level, a placement setting key 21 for setting the placement course, Wash setting key 22 for setting the washing step, rinse setting key 23 for setting the rinsing step, dehydration setting key 24 for setting the dehydration step, water injection setting key 25 for setting the water rinsing, start and Start pause key 26 to pause
Is provided. Each of these keys is composed of a push button switch, and is configured to be turned on only during a pressing operation.

As various kinds of indicators, a mode indicator 27 for indicating whether the operation mode for setting the time is for the reserved time or the current time, a water level indicator 28 for displaying the set water level, and a reserved time. , A numeric display 29, which is a numeric display means for displaying the current time, the remaining operating time, etc., in numerical form, a display content display 30 for displaying the content of the time displayed on the numeric display 29, a process in which the operation is being performed, A process indicator 31 for displaying, a water injection indicator 32 for displaying water rinsing setting, and an operation intensity indicator 33 which is an operation intensity display means for displaying the operation intensity of the washing course and the operation intensity of each process are provided. There is. In this case, the mode indicator 27 is composed of, for example, two light emitting diodes 27a and 27b, the water level indicator 28 is composed of, for example, four light emitting diodes 28a to 28d, and the numerical indicator 29 is, for example, a 7-segment type light emitting device. The display content indicator 30 is composed of, for example, two light emitting diodes 30a and 30b, and the travel indicator 31 is, for example, four light emitting diodes 31.
a to 31d, the water injection indicator 32 is composed of, for example, one light emitting diode, and the operation intensity indicator 33 is composed of, for example, ten light emitting diodes 33a.

Further, an operation dial 34 is rotatably arranged at the right end of the operation panel 18. The operation dial 34 is attached to the rotary shaft of a rotary switch 35 (see FIG. 3), and when the operation dial 34 is operated to rotate, the rotary dial 35 moves the operation dial 34.
A rotation operation signal is output according to the rotation direction and the rotation angle. In this case, the rotary switch 35
Is composed of, for example, a rotary variable resistor, a rotary encoder (pulse generator), and the like. Further, the operation dial 34 is configured to be retractable with respect to the operation panel 18, and is configured to be held in a non-projection position when pushed in at a projecting position and held in a projecting position when pushed in at a non-projecting position. ing. Further, the operation dial 34 has a predetermined setting angle (for example, about 10 degrees).
It is configured such that a feeling of nodal motion can be obtained each time the rotary operation is performed. Furthermore, when the access port 15 is closed by the lid 17, the operation panel 18 is hidden by the lid 17. Then, in the closed state of the lid 17, the operation dial 34 penetrates into a portion of the lid 17 corresponding to the operation dial 34 and protrudes upward so that the operation dial 34 can be rotated. Through holes (not shown) are formed.

Further, in FIG. 3 showing an electrical configuration, the control circuit 36 is configured to include a microcomputer, and an internal memory automatically executes a washing course including a washing step, a rinsing step and a dehydrating step. A control program for controlling is stored. This control circuit 36
However, it is provided with respective functions as operation intensity control means, stroke selection changing means, water level selection setting means, time setting means, water flow intensity changing means, rotation speed changing means, and lighting control means.
The control circuit 36 receives a water level detection signal from the water level sensor 11, various key signals from an operation circuit 37 having various operation keys of the operation panel 18, and a rotation operation signal from the rotary switch 35. Is configured. Also,
The control circuit 36 includes a motor 5, a water supply valve 14, a drain valve 9, and various display devices such as an operation panel 18.
8. The buzzer 39 is configured to be driven and controlled via the drive circuits 40 to 44.

Further, the control circuit 36 has a rotation speed detection signal from a rotation sensor 45 for detecting the rotation speed of the motor 5,
In addition, it receives a load detection signal from the load sensor 46 that detects the magnitude of the load applied to the motor 5. Accordingly, the control circuit 36 is configured to be able to rotationally drive the motor 5 at a desired rotation speed by performing feedback control of the motor 5 based on the rotation speed detection signal from the rotation sensor 45. The control circuit 36 is also configured to be able to detect the amount of laundry put into the rotary tub 3 based on a load detection signal from the load sensor 46.

Yes, it is.

Next, the operation of the above configuration will be described with reference to FIGS.
Refer also to the explanation. First, when the power switch is turned on, a washing course with a standard driving intensity is displayed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the fifth light emitting diode 33a from the top of the operation intensity indicator 33 is turned on and the number indicator 29 rotates the stirring body 4 during washing and rinsing operations. "110 rpm" is displayed as the speed (also referred to as the washing rotation speed). The washing course in which the fifth light emitting diode 33a is turned on is shown in Table 1 below.
In, the course number is a course in which the washing operation is executed with the operation intensity corresponding to “5”. Specifically, in the above course, the washing operation time is "12 minutes", the reversal time limit is "1.5 seconds on, 0.8 seconds off", and the washing rotation speed is "1".
10 rpm ", the number of times of rinsing is" 2 times ", the dehydration operation time is" 7 minutes ", and the rotation speed (also referred to as the dehydration rotation speed) of the rotary tank 3 during the dehydration operation is set to" 800 rpm "to perform each operation. It is like this.

[0035]

[Table 1] Then, by rotating the operation dial 34 in the above-described display state, the operation intensity of the laundry course can be changed to, for example, 10 steps. Specifically, in the state shown in FIG. 4, when the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise by a set angle (until a feeling of nodal motion is obtained), the fourth light emission from the top of the driving intensity display 33 is performed. The diode 33a is turned on, and "120 rpm" is displayed as the washing rotation speed on the numeral display 29. The laundry course in which the fourth light emitting diode 33a is turned on is a course in which the laundry operation is executed at the operation intensity corresponding to the course number "4" in Table 1. Hereinafter, every time the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise by a set angle, the third light emitting diode 33a from the top, the second light emitting diode 33a from the top, and the first light emitting diode 33a from the top are sequentially turned on. At the same time, the number display 29 indicates the washing rotation speed as "130 rpm", "140 rpm", "150 r".
"pm" are displayed in order. The above three light emitting diodes 3
Each washing course in which 3a is turned on is a course in which the washing operation is executed with the operation intensity corresponding to the course numbers “1”, “2”, and “3” in Table 1. Even when the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise while the first light emitting diode 33a is turned on, the lighting display of the driving intensity indicator 33 does not change.

On the other hand, when the first light emitting diode 33a is lit, the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise by a set angle (until a feeling of nodal motion is obtained), and the second light emitting diode 33a from the top is turned on. While being turned on, "140 rpm" is displayed as the washing rotation speed on the numeral display 29. Hereinafter, each time the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise by a set angle, the lower light emitting diode 33a is sequentially turned on, and the number display 29 sequentially indicates the washing rotation speed from "130 rpm" to "30 rpm". Is displayed. The tenth light emitting diode 33a
Even if the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise in the state where is turned on, the lighting display of the driving intensity indicator 33 does not change.

Therefore, the operating intensity of the washing course can be set to a desired operating intensity out of 10 steps (10 courses) shown in Table 1 by appropriately rotating the operation dial 34 clockwise or counterclockwise. You can Here, in changing the operating intensity of the washing course to the above 10 steps, the washing time and the water flow intensity (specifically, the reversal time limit and the washing rotation speed) are changed in the washing process. Regarding the rinsing process, the water flow intensity (specifically, the reversal time limit and the washing rotation speed) has been changed.
Regarding the dehydration process, the dehydration time and the rotation speed of the rotary tank 3 are changed. In addition, the above-mentioned Table 1 shows the contents of 10-step operation intensity corresponding to the case where the water level is "high water level". In addition to this, the water level is "medium water level",
It is configured so that 10 levels of operation intensity can be set, corresponding to "low water level" and "small water level", respectively.

After the operation intensity of the laundry course is selected and set as described above, the start pause key 26
When is turned on, the washing operation is started, and the operation is automatically executed sequentially from the water supply operation in the washing process. In this case, when the start / pause key 26 is turned on, as shown in FIG. 5, the number display 29 displays, for example, "48 minutes" as the remaining operation time required to execute the washing course. In addition, the light emitting diode 31 showing the first wash process of the process indicators 31
b is blinked and the light emitting diodes 31c and 31d indicating the rinsing process and the dehydration process are lit and displayed. After that, as the washing operation progresses, the remaining operation time displayed on the number display 29 is subtracted, and the light emitting diode for the completed travel of the travel display 31 is extinguished, and the operation is being executed. The display is switched so that the light emitting diode for the process is blinking.

Next, a case will be described in which the user changes the operation intensity of each operation during each operation of washing, rinsing or dehydration after starting the laundry operation. First, when the user looks at the water flow and wants to change the strength (water flow intensity) while the washing operation is being performed, the operation dial 34 is turned to either the left or right direction by the set angle. To move. Then, the number display 29 displays the washing rotation speed of the currently set operation intensity, and the lid 17
When is closed, the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is turned on to illuminate the inside of the rotary tank 3. At this time, the buzzer 39 is sounded at the same time when the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is turned on. In this state, when the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise by the set angle, the operation intensity (water flow intensity) is increased by one step (in this case, the water flow intensity can be changed and set in ten steps shown in Table 1). It is configured). Specifically, if the fifth light emitting diode 33a from the top of the operation intensity indicator 33 is turned on as the operation intensity before change and "110 rpm" is displayed as the washing rotation speed, the fourth light emitting diode is displayed. 33a is turned on and "120 rpm" is displayed as the washing rotation speed (see FIG. 6). And at the same time, the water flow of this operating strength (washing rotation speed is "1
The drive control is performed so that the washing operation is executed at 20 rpm "and the reversal time limit is" 1.2 seconds on, 0.8 seconds off ". Hereinafter, each time the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise by the set angle, the driving intensity is changed so as to be increased by one step.

On the other hand, when the operation dial 34 is turned counterclockwise, the driving intensity is decreased by one step each time it is turned by the set angle. Then, after the user sets a desired driving intensity (that is, after the operation dial 34 is not rotated), when the set time of 15 seconds elapses, the remaining operating time is displayed on the numeral display 29. At the same time, when the lid 17 is closed, the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is turned off.

Next, when the washing operation is being executed,
When it is desired to change the operation intensity of the dehydration process, that is, the dehydration rotation speed, the dehydration setting key 24 is operated. As a result, the currently set dehydration rotation speed is displayed on the numeral display 29. When the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise in this state, each time the operation dial 34 is rotated by the set angle,
The driving intensity is set stronger step by step, the light emitting diode 33a of the driving intensity display 33 corresponding to the driving intensity is turned on, and the dehydration rotation speed corresponding to the driving intensity is displayed on the number display 29 ( In this case, the driving intensity can be changed and set in 10 stages shown in Table 1). FIG. 7 shows a case where the driving intensity is set to the strongest.

On the other hand, when the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise, the driving intensity is set weaker by one step each time it is rotated by the set angle. Then, after setting the driving intensity desired by the user (that is, after the operation dial 34 is not rotated), the set time is, for example, 15
When the second has elapsed, the remaining operating time is displayed on the numerical display 29, the light emitting diode 33a corresponding to the changed operating intensity is extinguished, and the running intensity display 33 indicates that the washing process is being performed. The light emitting diode 33a corresponding to the driving intensity is turned on. After that, when the washing process and the rinsing process are completed and the dehydration process is started, the operation intensity changed as described above (in the case of FIG. 7, the dehydration rotation speed is "1").
000 rpm "and the dehydration time is set to" 8 minutes ") and the dehydration operation is executed.

Further, when it is desired to change the water flow intensity while the rinsing operation is being performed, and when the operation intensity of the dehydration process is to be changed, the same operation method as the above-mentioned operation method changed during the washing operation is used. The method will be omitted here.

Now, when the dehydration operation is being executed,
When the user wants to change the strength by looking at the dehydration operation (dehydration rotation speed), the operation dial 34 is rotated to the left or right by a set angle. Then, the numerical indicator 29 displays the dehydration rotation speed of the currently set operation intensity, and since the lid 17 is closed, the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is turned on. At this time, the buzzer 39 is sounded at the same time when the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is turned on. When the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise in this state, the operating intensity, in this case, the dehydration rotation speed, increases by one step each time the operating dial 34 is rotated by a set angle (in this case, the operating intensity is shown in Table 1). It is configured to be changeable in 10 steps as shown in FIG. On the contrary, when the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise, the operation intensity (dehydration rotation speed) is reduced by one step each time it is rotated by the set angle. In this case, each time the operating intensity is changed by rotating the operation dial 34, the light emitting diode 33a of the operating intensity indicator 33 corresponding to the changed operating intensity (dehydration rotation speed) is turned on and the dehydration rotation is performed. The speed is displayed on the numerical display 29 (an example is now shown in FIG. 8). At the same time, the drive control is performed so that the dehydration operation is executed with the changed operation intensity, that is, with the changed dehydration rotation speed. After setting the driving intensity desired by the user (that is, after the operation dial 34 is not rotated), the set time is, for example, 15
After a lapse of the second, the remaining operating time is displayed on the numeral display 29 and the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is turned off.

Next, a case will be described in which the operating conditions (operating time, operating intensity, etc.) of the washing process, rinsing process, and dehydration process are set manually. First, in the case of manually setting the operating conditions of the washing process, after turning on the power switch, the washing setting key 22 is pressed. As a result, as shown in FIG. 9, the light emitting diode 31b for the washing process of the process indicator 31 is turned on to indicate that the washing process is selected and the operation mode for setting the operating condition is set. To be done. At this time, the number display 29 indicates, for example, 1 as the maximum value of the washing operation time.
5 minutes is displayed. When the washing setting key 22 is pressed in this state, the washing operation time is set to be reduced by 1 minute each time the pressing operation is performed, and the reduced operation time is displayed on the numeral display 29. In this case, if the wash setting key 22 is further pressed after the minimum value is reduced to 1 minute,
The maximum value is 15 minutes.

The operating strength of the washing process (water flow strength)
When manually setting, the washing operation time is set as described above, and then the operation dial 34 is turned clockwise or counterclockwise to set. Specifically, when the operation dial 34 is rotated in the clockwise direction, the operation intensity (that is, the water flow intensity) is set stronger by one step each time the operation dial 34 is rotated by the set angle (in this case, the water flow intensity is shown in Table 1). It is configured to be able to change and set in 10 steps shown in. Even if the operation dial 34 is further rotated in the clockwise direction after the water flow strength is set to the strongest, the water flow strength does not change. On the other hand, on the contrary,
When the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise, the water flow intensity is set to be weaker by one step each time it is rotated by the set angle. In this case, the water flow intensity does not change even if the operation dial 34 is further rotated counterclockwise after the water flow intensity is set to the weakest. Then, when the water flow intensity is changed by rotating the operation dial 34 as described above, the light emitting diode 33a of the operation intensity indicator 33 corresponding to the changed water flow intensity is turned on and the changed water flow intensity is corresponded. The washing rotation speed for washing is displayed on the numerical display 29 (an example is shown in FIG. 10).

After that, when the start temporary stop key 26 is turned on, only the washing process is started and executed under the operating conditions set by the above manual. In this case, as shown in FIG. 11, while the remaining operating time is displayed on the numerical display 29, the light emitting diode 31b for the washing process of the process display 31 is blinked, and the operating intensity display corresponding to the set water flow intensity is displayed. The light emitting diode 33a of the container 33 is turned on.

Next, the case where the operating conditions for the rinsing stroke are set manually will be described. In this case, after the power switch is turned on, the rinse setting key 23 is pressed. As a result, as shown in FIG. 12, the travel indicator 31
The light emitting diode 31c for the rinsing process is turned on,
When the rinsing stroke is selected, it is displayed that the operating mode for setting the operating condition is entered. At this time, the number display 29 displays, for example, three times as the maximum value of the number of rinses. In this state, rinse setting key 2
When 3 is pressed, the number of times of rinsing is reduced by one each time the pressing operation is performed, and the reduced number of times of rinsing is displayed on the numerical display 29. In this case, the minimum value is 1
When the rinse setting key 23 is further pressed after the number of times is reduced to the maximum value, the maximum value is returned to 3 times.

When the operating intensity (water flow intensity) of the rinsing process is manually set, after setting the rinsing frequency as described above, the operation dial 34 is turned clockwise or counterclockwise to set it. (See FIG. 13). The operating method in this case is the same as the operating method in the case of setting the operating intensity (water flow intensity) of the washing process described above, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

After that, when the start temporary stop key 26 is turned on, only the rinsing stroke is started and executed under the operating conditions set by the above manual. In this case, FIG.
As shown in, the remaining operating time is displayed on the numerical display 29, and the rinsing stroke light emitting diode 31c of the stroke indicator 31 is blinked, and the light emitting diode of the operating intensity indicator 33 corresponding to the set water flow intensity is displayed. 33a is turned on.

Next, when the operating conditions for the dehydration process are set manually, the power switch is turned on and then the dehydration setting key 24 is pressed. As a result, as shown in FIG. 15, the light emitting diode 31d for the dehydration process of the process indicator 31 is turned on to indicate that the dehydration process is selected and the operation mode for setting the operating condition is set. To be done. At this time, the number display unit 29 displays, for example, 9 minutes as the maximum value of the dehydration operation time. When the dehydration setting key 24 is pressed in this state, the dehydration operation time is reduced by 1 minute and set each time the depression operation is performed, and the reduced operation time is displayed on the numeral display 29.
In this case, when the dehydration setting key 24 is further pressed after the minimum value is reduced to 1 minute, the maximum value is returned to 9 minutes.

Then, the operation intensity of the dehydration process, in this case,
When the dehydration rotation speed (rotation speed of the rotary tank 3) is manually set, the dehydration operation time is set as described above, and then the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise to be set. Specifically, when the operation dial 34 is rotated in the clockwise direction, the dehydration rotation speed increases by one step each time it is rotated by the set angle (in this case, the dehydration rotation speed is as shown in Table 1). It can be changed in 10 steps). Even if the operation dial 34 is further rotated in the clockwise direction after the dewatering rotation speed is set to the strongest, the water flow strength does not change. On the other hand, when the operation dial 34 is turned counterclockwise, the set dial is turned by the set angle.
The dehydration rotation speed is set weakly by one step. in this case,
Even if the operation dial 34 is further rotated counterclockwise after the dewatering rotation speed is set to the weakest, the dewatering rotation speed does not change. Then, when the dehydration rotation speed is changed by rotating the operation dial 34 as described above, the light emitting diode 33a of the operation intensity indicator 33 corresponding to the changed dehydration rotation speed is turned on and the changed dehydration rotation speed is also turned on. The speed is displayed on the numeral display 29 (an example is shown in FIG. 16).

Thereafter, when the start temporary stop key 26 is turned on, only the dehydration process is started and executed under the operating conditions set by the above manual. In this case, as shown in FIG. 17, while the remaining operation time is displayed on the numerical display 29, the light emitting diode 31d for the dehydration process of the process indicator 31 is blinked, and the operation intensity corresponding to the set dehydration rotation speed. The light emitting diode 33a of the display 33 is configured to be turned on.

Although the case where the operating conditions are set for each of the three strokes and then immediately executed has been described, the operating conditions for the three strokes are sequentially set manually, and then the start temporary stop key 26 is turned on. The operation may be performed so that the operation starts from the washing step and the three steps are sequentially executed. In this case, the operating method for manually setting the operating conditions of the three strokes is the same as the above-described operating method, and the operating conditions may be set in the order of the washing stroke, the rinsing stroke, and the dehydration stroke ( The order of setting may be set freely.)

When the start / pause key 26 is turned on to start the operation from the washing process, the remaining operating time is displayed on the numerical display 29 and the process display 3
The light emitting diode 31b for the washing process of No. 1 blinks, the light emitting diodes 31c and 31d for the rinsing process and the dehydrating process are turned on, and further, the light emission of the operation intensity indicator 33 corresponding to the water flow intensity set for the washing process. Diode 33
a is turned on. After that, when the washing process is finished and the rinsing process is started, the light emitting diode 31b for the washing process
Is turned off, the light emitting diode 33a of the operation intensity indicator 33 corresponding to the water flow intensity set for the washing process is turned off, and the light emitting diode 31c for the rinsing process is blinked and is set for the rinsing process. The light emitting diode 33a of the operation intensity indicator 33 corresponding to the water flow intensity is turned on. Subsequently, when the rinsing step is completed and the dehydration step is started, the light emitting diode 31c for the rinsing step is turned off and the light emitting diode 33a of the operation intensity indicator 33 corresponding to the water flow intensity set for the rinsing step is turned on. The light emitting diode 31d for the dehydration process is turned on and off, and the light emitting diode 33a of the operation intensity indicator 33 corresponding to the dehydration rotation speed set for the dehydration process is turned on.

Next, an operation method for setting the present time or the reserved time will be described. First, when setting the current time of the clock function, the clock setting key 19 is pressed to turn on the light emitting diode 27b of the mode display 27, and the operation mode for setting the current time is set. Then, in this state, the operation dial 34 is rotated to set the current time. Specifically, by rotating the operation dial 34 quickly, the "hour" of the current time is set,
By slowly rotating the operation dial 34,
It is configured to be able to set "minutes" of the current time. That is,
When the operation dial 34 is quickly rotated clockwise,
The display of the "hour" of the current time, in this case, the "hour" portion of the numeral display means 29 is "1", "2", ..., "2".
4 ”and the display is switched in ascending order. On the contrary, when the operation dial 34 is swiveled counterclockwise in the counterclockwise direction, the display of "hour" of the current time is switched and displayed in descending order.

After the "hour" of the current time is set and displayed as described above, the operation dial 34 is slowly rotated to set the "minute" of the current time. That is,
When the operation dial 34 is slowly rotated clockwise, the display of "minute" of the current time, in this case, "minute" of the numerical display means 29 is "1", "2", ... 6
It is switched and displayed in ascending order of "0". On the contrary, if the operation dial 34 is slowly turned counterclockwise,
The display of "minute" of the current time is switched and displayed in descending order.
In this way, when the time setting key 19 is pressed after setting and displaying "hour" and "minute" of the current time, the timekeeping function of the timepiece starts.

On the other hand, when the reserved time of the reserved laundry operation course (for example, the end time of the laundry operation) is set, the clock setting key 19 is pressed to turn on the light emitting diode 27a of the mode indicator 27 to set the reserved time. The operation mode for setting. Then, in this state, the operation dial 3
Rotate 4 to set the reserved time. The specific operation method in this case is the same as the above-described operation method for setting the current time, and a description thereof will be omitted.

Next, an operation method for manually setting the water level will be described. In this case, the water level setting key 2
Press 0 to enter the operation mode for setting the water level. In this case, the water level indicator 28 is pressed by the pressing operation.
The "high water level" light emitting diode 28a is turned on, and the numerical indicator 29 indicates "6" as the water amount at the time of the high water level.
0 "liters are displayed (in this case only the number" 60 "is displayed). The water level can be changed and set by rotating the operation dial 34 in the display state. Specifically, when the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise, the number "60" liters displayed on the number display 29 is decreased by "1" liters each time the operation dial 34 is rotated by a set angle. Go.

When the number displayed on the numeral display 29 decreases to "50" liters, the "high water level" light emitting diode 28a of the water level indicator 28 is turned off, and the "medium water level" light emitting diode 28b. Is lit. Also,
When the number displayed on the numeral display 29 decreases to "40" liters, the light emitting diode 28b for "medium water level" of the water level indicator 28 is turned off and the light emitting diode 28c for "low water level" is turned on. Further, when the number displayed on the numeral display 29 decreases to "30" liters, the light emitting diode 28c for "low water level" of the water level indicator 28 is turned off and the light emitting diode 28d for "small water level" is turned on. It In addition, in order to raise the water level, the operation dial 34 is rotated in the clockwise direction.
The number displayed on the number display 29 is increased by "1" liter and displayed.

Therefore, by rotating the operation dial 34, the water level can be freely set in units of 1 liter between the "high water level" (60 liters) and the "small water level" (30 liters). There is. In this case, instead of setting the water level in units of 1 liter, the water level may be set in units of 2 liters or 5 liters. Further, in the operation mode for setting the water level, by repeatedly pressing the water level setting key 20, the "high water level" is changed to the "medium water level" and the "medium water level" is changed to the "low water level". Further, it is configured to sequentially switch the setting from “low water level” to “small amount water level” and from “small amount water level” to “high water level”. In this case, the "high water level" light emitting diode 28a, the "medium water level"
The light-emitting diode 28b for water, the light-emitting diode 28c for "low water level", and the light-emitting diode 28d for "low water level" are switched on, and the numeral display 29 indicates "6.
The display is switched between 0, “50”, “40”, and “30”.

According to the present embodiment having such a structure, the operation intensity of the washing course is changed to, for example, 10 steps in accordance with the turning operation of the operation dial 34. When selecting the strength, it is only necessary to rotate the operation dial 34, and the operation is a one-touch operation. Therefore, the selection operation of the washing course is greatly simplified as compared with the conventional configuration in which the course switching key is pressed. . Further, since the respective operating intensities of the washing process, the rinsing process and the dehydrating process are changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial 34, the operating intensities can be set finely in 10 steps, for example. It is possible and, moreover, the selection setting operation for it becomes very easy.

Further, in the above embodiment, when the operation intensity of the washing course is changed, the washing time and the water flow intensity (specifically, the washing rotation speed and the reversal time limit) are changed for the washing process, and the rinsing process is performed. Is configured to change the water flow intensity and change the dehydration time and the rotation speed of the rotary tub (dewatering rotation speed) for the dehydration process, so that the operating intensity of the washing course can be finely changed. Furthermore, when changing the operating intensity of each of the washing process, rinsing process, and dehydration process, the water flow intensity (specifically, the washing rotation speed and the reversal time limit) is changed for the washing process and rinsing process, and the spinning tank is used for the dehydration process. Since it is configured to change the rotation speed of, the operating intensity can be finely changed in the same manner as in the case of the washing course.

In the above embodiment, the wash selection key 22
The washing process is selected and the washing time is changed in accordance with the pressing operation of the, the rinsing process is changed in accordance with the pressing operation of the rinsing selection key 23, and the rinsing number is changed, and the rinsing number is changed according to the pressing operation of the dehydration selection key 24. Since the dehydration process is selected and the dehydration time is changed, the operation time and the number of times of operation can be set to values desired by the user for each process. On the other hand, since the driving intensity indicator 33 composed of 10 light emitting diodes is provided as the driving intensity display means for displaying the driving intensity stepwise, it is easy to change the driving intensity, and the changed driving intensity is visually recognized. Easier to do.

Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, when each operation intensity of the washing process, the rinsing process or the dehydration process is manually changed, the changed operation intensity is displayed during each operation of washing, rinsing or dehydration. Since it is configured to be displayed on the device 33, the intensity of the running operation can be easily recognized even during the execution of each operation.
Further, as the content of the operation intensity, the rotation speed of the stirring body 4 (that is, the washing rotation speed), the rotation speed of the rotating tank 3 (that is, the dehydration rotation speed), and the like are displayed on the number display device 29 by numbers, It is possible to clearly recognize the content of driving intensity with concrete numerical values.

On the other hand, in the above embodiment, in the operation mode for setting the water level, the water level is selected and set, for example, in units of 1 liter in accordance with the turning operation of the operation dial 34, so that the water level is selectively set. The operation is simple and the water level can be set finely. Also,
In the operation mode for setting the time such as the current time or the reserved time, the time is set according to the turning operation of the operation dial 34. Therefore, the "hour" setting key and the "minute" setting key are repeatedly pressed. The operation of setting the time is much easier than the conventional configuration in which the time is set.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the water flow intensity is changed to, for example, 10 steps by rotating the operation dial 34 during each operation of washing or rinsing. Can be visually confirmed in real time, and the change in water flow intensity can be clearly recognized. Even during the dehydration operation, the rotation speed (dehydration rotation speed) of the rotary tank 3 is changed by rotating the operation dial 34. Therefore, the changed dehydration rotation speed can be confirmed in real time. And the usability is improved.

Further, in the above embodiment, the in-tank illumination lamp 16 for illuminating the inside of the rotary tank 3 is provided, and the operation dial 34 is rotated even during each operation of washing, rinsing or dehydrating (the state in which the lid 17 is closed). Since the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is turned on in response to the dynamic operation, the inside of the rotary tank 3 during each operation can be clearly seen, and the operation intensity can be easily confirmed. In this case, when the operation dial 34 is turned to turn on the in-tank illumination lamp 16, the water flow intensity or the like is not changed by the turning operation of the operation dial 34 at the time of turning on. Since the dial 34 is also used as a lighting switch for the in-tank illumination lamp 16 and a switch for changing the water flow intensity, the number of switches can be reduced. Further, since the buzzer 39 is made to ring when the operation dial 34 is turned to turn on the in-tank illumination lamp 16, the buzzer 39 sounds to turn the operation dial 34 at that time. Is an in-tank lighting lamp 16
It is possible to clearly recognize that the operation is for turning on, and it is possible to prevent erroneous operation and misunderstanding.

Furthermore, in the above embodiment, after the set time elapses from the time when the operation dial 34 is not rotated, the in-tank illumination lamp 16 is automatically turned off and the remaining operating time is displayed on the numeral display means. Because it was configured to
It is possible to prevent forgetting to turn off the in-tub illumination lamp 16, and it is possible to visually check the time until the end of the washing operation (remaining operation time) at any time. In addition, the operation dial 34
Is provided so as to be rotatable even when the loading / unloading opening 15 for loading / unloading laundry is closed by the lid 17, the operating dial 14 can be pivotally operated even during the dehydration operation. The rotation speed of the rotary tank 3 can be appropriately changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial 14. Further, since the operation dial 34 is provided so as to be retractable from the operation panel 18, if the operation dial 34 is projected, for example, the turning operation becomes easy. On the other hand, if the operation dial 34 is in the non-protruding state, the operation dial 34 can be prevented from interfering with the packaging and opening / closing of the lid 17. Moreover, in the above embodiment, the operation dial 34
Since it is provided so that a feeling of nodal motion can be obtained each time the manipulator is rotated by a set angle, the driving intensity and the like are changed step by step in accordance with the amount of the rotational operation at which the nodal feeling is obtained. It is possible to improve the operation feeling when changing.

In the above embodiment, when the operating intensity of the washing course and each stroke is changed and set in 10 steps, it is changed according to Table 1. However, the specific numerical values in Table 1 may be appropriately determined. It is a thing. Further, in the above embodiment, the operating intensity of the washing course and each stroke can be changed and set in 10 steps, but the present invention is not limited to this, and
It may be configured such that it can be changed and set in one step or more or nine steps or less.

18 to 22 show the second embodiment of the present invention.
The present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 3 and the differences from the first embodiment will be described. First, in FIG. 18 showing an operation panel 51 instead of the operation panel 18, a water amount adjustment setting key 52 is provided in place of the water injection setting key 25 instead.
Is provided. The water volume adjustment setting key 52 is an operation key for setting an operation mode in which the water volume (water level) in the rotary tub 3 (water receiving tub 2) can be adjusted during the washing operation (washing operation or rinsing operation). A light emitting diode 53 indicating that the operation mode in which the amount of water in the rotary tub 3 can be adjusted is provided is provided in the upper left portion in FIG. 18 of the water amount adjustment setting key 52 on the operation panel 51.

The numeric display 29 provided on the operation panel 51 constitutes a display device for displaying the amount of increase or decrease of the amount of water in the rotary tank 3. Further, a unit "cm" indicating the amount of change of the water level is printed as a unit of the amount of increase or decrease of the amount of water in the vicinity of the right outer side of FIG. In addition, this unit "cm"
It is also preferable that, instead of printing, a light emitting diode is used, and the light emitting display is performed only in an operation mode in which the amount of water can be adjusted.

On the other hand, the mechanical structure and electric structure of the washing machine other than the operation panel 51 are almost the same as the mechanical structure (see FIG. 2) and the electric structure (see FIG. 3) of the first embodiment. It is configured. In this case, the control circuit 3
6 also has a function as a water amount adjusting means. That is,
When the operation dial 34 is rotated in the operation mode in which the amount of water in the rotary tub 3 can be adjusted (the state where the water amount adjustment setting key 52 is operated), the control circuit 36 performs the rotation operation (rotation). It has a function of opening / closing the water supply valve 14 or the drain valve 9 according to the direction and the rotation angle) to increase or decrease the amount of water in the rotary tank 3.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 19, when the operation dial 34 is rotated in the clockwise direction, the water supply valve 14 is opened, so that water is supplied and the amount of water is increased. When 34 is rotated counterclockwise, the drain valve 9 is opened, so that the drain valve 9 is drained and the amount of water is reduced. Then, as shown in the graph of FIG. 20, the water level is increased by 1 cm each time the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise, for example, by 18 degrees, and the maximum value of the increase is, for example, 5c
m (90 degrees at the turning angle of the operation dial 34) is set. Similarly, every time the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise by, for example, 18 degrees, the water level is reduced by 1 cm, and the maximum reduction amount is, for example, 5 cm (the rotation of the operation dial 34 is reduced). The moving angle is set to 90 degrees. Further, the set increase amount and decrease amount are configured to be displayed on the numeral display 29 as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, and can be visually confirmed by the user. In the case of this embodiment, the operation dial 3
4 is configured to give a feeling of nodal motion every time it is rotated by 18 degrees by a not-illustrated nodal motion mechanism. The configuration other than the above is almost the same as the configuration of the first embodiment.

Next, the operation of the second embodiment will be described. When the user selects and sets a desired automatic operation course and starts the washing operation, the cloth amount is detected, and the water level suitable for the detected cloth amount is automatically set. Then, the washing operation and the rinsing operation are executed at the set water level described above. When the user manually sets the washing operation condition and executes the washing operation, the washing operation and the rinsing operation are performed at the water level set manually.

Here, in the middle of the washing operation and the rinsing operation, when the user looks at the inside of the rotary tub 3 and feels that the movement of the cloth is bad, the user wants to perform supplemental water injection into the rotary tub 3. In such a case, the user operates the water amount adjustment setting key 52 and the operation dial 34 of the operation panel 18 to supply water into the rotary tank 3 to increase the water amount. Specifically, when the water amount adjustment setting key 52 is operated, the light emitting diode 53 is turned on and the operation mode in which the amount of water in the rotary tank 3 can be adjusted is set. Then, in this state, when the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise, the water supply valve 14 is immediately opened to start water supply. At this time, the washing operation and the rinsing operation are continued without being stopped. Then, each time the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise by 18 degrees,
The water level is increased by 1 cm, and the increased value is displayed on the numerical display 29 as shown in FIG.

Therefore, the user may rotate the operation dial 34 in the clockwise direction until the desired water level increase value is displayed on the numeral display 29. Here, if 3 cm is set and displayed, for example, based on the detection signal of the water level sensor 11 and the water supply speed measured at the time of initial water supply, when the water level increases by 3 cm, the water supply valve 14 is closed to supply water. Is stopped, the light emitting diode 53 is turned off, and the control is returned to the original operating state. The maximum amount of increase in water volume (water level) is 5 cm.
When 4 is rotated 90 degrees, 5 cm is set and displayed,
Even if the operation dial 34 is rotated over 90 degrees, the increase amount remains 5 cm and does not change.

In the middle of the washing operation and the rinsing operation, when the user looks in the rotary tub 3 and feels that the cloth is violently moving and a lot of splashes occur, it is desired to drain the washing water in the rotary tub 3 a little. Become. In such a case, the user operates the water amount adjustment setting key 52 of the operation panel 18 and the operation dial 34 to drain the wash water in the rotary tub 3 to reduce the water amount. Specifically, when the water amount adjustment setting key 52 is operated, the light emitting diode 53 is turned on to enter an operation mode in which the amount of water in the rotary tank 3 can be adjusted. Then, in this state, when the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise, the drain valve 9 is immediately opened and drainage is started. At this time, the washing operation and the rinsing operation are continued without being stopped. Then, every time the operation dial 34 is rotated counterclockwise by 18 degrees, the water level is decreased by 1 cm, and the decreased value is displayed on the numeral display 29 with a minus sign "-" as shown in FIG. To be done.

Therefore, the user may rotate the operation dial 34 counterclockwise until the desired water level reduction value is displayed on the numerical display 29. And the water level sensor 1
Based on the detection signal of 1 and the drainage speed measured at the time of the previous drainage, when the water level decreases to the set water level decrease value, the drain valve 9 is closed to stop the drainage, and light is emitted. Control is performed to turn off the diode 53 and return to the original operating state. The maximum amount of water reduction is
5 cm, and when the operation dial 34 is rotated 90 degrees, -5 cm is set and displayed, and the operation dial 34 is set to 9 cm.
The amount of decrease does not change and remains -5 cm even when it is rotated beyond 0 degree.

However, also in the second embodiment,
It is possible to obtain substantially the same effect as that of the first embodiment. Particularly, according to the second embodiment, by operating the water amount adjustment setting key 52 and the operation dial 34 during the washing operation and the rinsing operation, the water amount (water level) in the rotary tank 3 (water receiving tank 2) is changed. Since it can be increased or decreased as desired by the user, the usability is further improved. Further, in the second embodiment described above, since the increase or decrease in the amount of water in the rotary tank 3 is displayed on the numeral display 29, the user can surely recognize the increase or decrease in the amount of water. be able to. Further, when the water amount is increased or decreased, the maximum increase amount or the maximum decrease amount is set and limited, so that the water amount in the rotary tank 3 is increased too much,
Alternatively, it is possible to prevent erroneous operations such as excessive reduction.

In the second embodiment, each time the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise by 18 degrees,
Although the configuration is such that the water level is increased or decreased by 1 cm, the present invention is not limited to this, and the water level is increased by 0.5 cm each time the operation dial 34 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise by half, ie, by 9 degrees. It may be configured to decrease,
The amount of increase / decrease may be set more finely, or conversely, the amount of increase / decrease may be set coarser (for example, in increments of 2 cm). Further, the maximum increase amount and the maximum decrease amount are set to 5 cm and -5 cm, respectively, but specific values thereof may be appropriately determined.

[0082]

As is apparent from the above description, the present invention has a structure in which the driving intensity of the washing course is changed in accordance with the turning operation of the operation dial. Even when setting a large number and selecting a desired one from among them, it is only necessary to rotate the operation dial, and the operation becomes one-touch, so compared to the configuration of pressing the course switching key, It has an excellent effect that the selection operation of the laundry course is greatly simplified. Also, since the operation intensity of the washing process, the rinsing process and the dehydration process is changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial, the operation intensity of each process can be manually selected, for example, in multi-steps and finely set. Even if configured, it is possible to greatly simplify the selection setting operation therefor.

Further, when the operation intensity of the washing course is changed, the washing time and the water flow intensity are changed for the washing process, and the water flow intensity is changed for the rinsing process.
As for the dehydration process, if the dehydration time and the rotation speed of the rotary tank are changed, the operation intensity can be changed finely. Further, when changing the operating strength of each of the washing process, the rinsing process and the dehydrating process, the water flow intensity is changed for the washing process and the rinsing process, and the rotation speed of the rotary tank is changed for the dehydrating process. Similarly, each driving intensity can be finely changed. On the other hand, the washing process is selected and the washing time is changed according to the pressing operation of the washing selection key, the rinsing process is selected and the rinsing frequency is changed according to the pressing operation of the rinsing selection key, and the dehydration selection key is pressed. Since the dehydration process is selected and the dehydration time is changed in accordance with the above, the operating time and the number of times of operation can be set to desired values for each process.

Further, since the driving intensity display means for displaying the driving intensity in stages is provided, it becomes easy to change the driving intensity. Furthermore, when each operating intensity of the washing process, rinsing process or dehydration process is manually changed and set, during each operation of washing, rinsing or dehydration, the changed operating intensity is displayed on the operating intensity display means. Since it is configured, it is possible to easily recognize the set strength of the running operation even during the execution of each operation. Further, since the number display means for displaying the rotational speed of the stirring body and the like as the content of the driving strength is provided, it becomes possible to recognize the content of the driving strength with a specific numerical value, and it becomes easy to recognize.

On the other hand, when the operation mode for setting the water level by pressing the water level setting key is set, the water level is selected and set according to the turning operation of the operation dial. Therefore, the water level is selected and set. This simplifies the operation for adjusting the water level and makes it easy to set the water level finely. Further, in the operation mode for setting the time such as the current time or the reserved time, the time is set according to the turning operation of the operation dial, so that the operation for setting the time is significantly simplified. Furthermore, during each washing or rinsing operation, the water flow intensity is changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial, so the changed water flow intensity can be visually confirmed in real time, and only that is clearly confirmed. Will be possible. Even during the dehydration operation, the rotation speed of the rotary tank is changed according to the turning operation of the operation dial, so that the changed rotation speed can be visually confirmed in real time, and only that much can be confirmed clearly. It will be possible.

Further, an illumination lamp for illuminating the inside of the rotary tank is provided,
During each operation of washing, rinsing or dehydration, the illumination lamp is turned on according to the turning operation of the operation dial, so it is possible to clearly see the inside of the rotating tank during each operation, and to improve the operation strength. It will be easier to check. In this case, when the operation dial is turned to turn on the illumination lamp, the water flow intensity and the like are not changed by the turning operation of the operation dial when the illumination is turned on. It can be used both as a lighting switch and a switch for changing the water flow intensity, etc., and the number of switches can be reduced. Moreover, since the buzzer sounds when the operation dial is turned to turn on the illumination lamp, the buzzer sounds to turn the operation dial to turn on the illumination lamp. It can be recognized as an operation, and misoperations and misunderstandings can be prevented.

Furthermore, since the illumination lamp is turned off and the remaining operating time is displayed on the number display means after the set time has elapsed from the time when the operation dial is not rotated, the illumination lamp must be forgotten to be turned off. Can be prevented,
You can see the remaining driving time at any time. Also, even when the laundry entrance / exit is closed with the lid, the operation dial can be rotated, so the operation dial can be operated even during the dehydration operation, and the rotation speed of the rotary tub can be controlled. Can be changed. And since the operation dial is provided on the operation panel so that it can be retracted, it is easy to rotate if the operation dial is projected, and conversely, if the operation dial is not projected, it will be operated when packing or opening and closing the lid. You can prevent the dial from getting in the way. Moreover, since the operation dial is configured to provide a feeling of nodal motion each time it is rotated by a set angle, it is possible to change the driving intensity or the like in accordance with the amount of rotational operation at which the nodal feeling is obtained. The operation feeling at the time can be improved.

Since the water quantity adjusting means for increasing / decreasing the water quantity in the tank by opening / closing the water supply valve or the drain valve according to the turning operation of the operation dial is provided, the washing operation or the rinsing operation is performed. If the user wants to add a little more water to the tank, or wants to reduce a little more water, the amount of water in the tank can be increased or decreased by simply turning the operation dial. The usability can be further improved. In this case, since the water amount adjustment setting key for setting the operation mode in which the water amount in the tank can be adjusted is provided, since the water amount in the tank can be adjusted when the water amount adjustment setting key is operated, The operation dial can also be used as an operation means for selecting and setting other functions.

Further, since the amount of water in the tank is increased or decreased by the amount of water according to the turning angle of the operation dial, the operation of designating the amount of water to be increased or decreased is simple.
Further, since the display device for displaying the increase amount or the decrease amount of the water amount in the tank is provided, the increase amount or the decrease amount of the water amount can be surely recognized. Furthermore, since the maximum increase amount or the maximum decrease amount is set and limited, it is possible to reliably prevent the amount of water in the tank from increasing too much or decreasing too much.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a top view of an operation panel showing a first embodiment of the present invention.

[Figure 2] Vertical side view of fully automatic washing machine

FIG. 3 is a block diagram.

FIG. 4 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the operation intensity of the laundry course is changed and selected.

FIG. 5 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the washing process is started after the washing course is selected.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the water flow intensity is changed after the washing process is started.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the operation intensity of the dehydration process is changed after the washing process is started.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the dehydration rotation speed in the dehydration process is changed after the dehydration process is started.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the operating time of the washing process is changed and set.

FIG. 10 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the water flow intensity in the washing process is changed.

FIG. 11 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the washing process is started.

FIG. 12 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case of changing the number of rinses in the rinse stroke.

FIG. 13 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the water flow intensity in the rinsing process is changed.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where a rinsing process is started.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the dehydration operation time of the dehydration process is changed.

FIG. 16 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where the spin-drying rotation speed in the spin-drying process is changed.

FIG. 17 is a top view of the operation panel showing a case where a dehydration process is started.

FIG. 18 is a top view of the operation panel showing the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a top view of the operation dial for explaining the operation.

FIG. 20 is a graph showing the relationship between the rotation direction and rotation angle of the operation dial and the water level increase and decrease amounts.

FIG. 21 is a top view of a numerical display showing an example of displaying the amount of increase in water level.

FIG. 22 is a top view of a numeral display device showing a display example of a water level reduction amount.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 is an outer box, 3 is a rotary tank, 4 is a stirrer, 5 is a motor, 11
Is a water level sensor, 13 is an upper cover, 15 is a doorway, 1
6 is an in-tank illumination lamp (illumination lamp), 17 is a lid, 18 is an operation panel, 19 is a clock setting key, 20 is a water level setting key, and 2
1 is a setting key for placing, 22 is a setting key for washing, 23 is a setting key for rinsing, 24 is a setting key for dehydration, 25 is a setting key for water injection, 26 is a pause key for start, 27 is a mode indicator, 28 is a water level indicator, 29 is a numeral display (numerical display means, display device), 31 is a stroke display, 33 is a driving strength display (driving strength display), 34 is an operation dial, 35
Is a rotary switch, 36 is a control circuit (operating intensity control means,
Stroke selection change means, water level selection setting means, time setting means,
Water flow intensity changing means, rotation speed changing means, lighting control means,
Water amount adjusting means), 39 is a buzzer, 51 is an operation panel, 5
Reference numeral 2 is a water amount adjustment setting key, and 53 is a light emitting diode.

 ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of the front page (72) Inventor Masahiro Imai 4-21, Yoshihara-cho, Nishi-ku, Nagoya City Stock company Toshiba Nagoya factory (72) Inventor Osamu Ishibashi 4-21, Yoshihara-cho, Nishi-ku, Nagoya Toshiba Corporation Nagoya factory (72) Inventor Kazutoshi Tani 4-21, Yoshihara-cho, Nishi-ku, Nagoya TOSHIBA CORPORATION Nagoya factory (72) Inventor Yoshiyuki Makino 4--21, Yoshihara-cho, Nishi-ku, Nagoya Toshiba Abu Ei Nagoya Office Co., Ltd.

Claims (23)

[Claims] 1. A fully automatic washing machine having a washing operation function for automatically executing a washing course including a washing step, a rinsing step and a dehydrating step, and an operation dial rotatably provided, and this operation. A fully automatic washing machine comprising: a driving intensity changing means for changing at least one of an operating intensity of the washing course and an operating intensity of each of the strokes according to a rotating operation of a dial. 2. The operation intensity changing means, when changing the operation intensity of the washing course, changes the washing time and the water flow intensity for the washing process, and changes the water flow intensity for the rinsing process to perform the dehydration process. 3. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the dehydration time and the rotation speed of the rotary tub are changed. 3. The operation intensity changing means changes the water flow intensity for the washing process and the rinsing process and the rotation speed of the rotary tank for the dehydration process when changing the operation intensity of each of the processes. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, which is configured. 4. A washing selection key which is provided so as to be capable of pressing operation and which selects a washing process, a rinsing selection key which is provided so as to be operable for selecting a rinsing process, and a dehydration process which is provided so as to be operable. A dehydration selection key for selection, and a rotation step of rotating the operation dial to select a washing step according to the pressing operation of the washing selection key and change the washing time, and rinsing according to the pressing operation of the rinsing selection key. 2. A stroke selection changing means for selecting a stroke and changing a rinsing frequency, and selecting a dehydration stroke and changing a dehydration time according to a pressing operation of the dehydration selection key. Fully automatic washing machine. 5. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising operation intensity display means for displaying operation intensity stepwise. 6. When the operation intensity of the washing process, the rinsing process or the dehydration process is changed, during the operation of the washing process, the rinsing process or the dehydration process, the changed operation intensity is currently displayed on the operation intensity display means. 6. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 5, wherein the automatic washing machine is displayed instead of. 7. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising a numerical display means for displaying a rotational speed of a stirring body or a rotary tub as a numerical value as the content of the operating strength. . 8. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising water level selection setting means for selectively setting the water level in accordance with the turning operation of the operation dial in the operation mode for setting the water level. 9. The time setting means for setting the time according to the turning operation of the operation dial in the operation mode for setting the time such as the current time or the reserved time. Fully automatic washing machine. 10. During each operation of washing or rinsing,
The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a water flow intensity changing unit that immediately changes the water flow intensity in response to a turning operation of the operation dial. 11. The rotating speed changing means for immediately changing the rotating speed of the rotary tub according to the turning operation of the operation dial during the spin-drying operation is provided.
Fully automatic washing machine as described. 12. An illumination lamp for illuminating the inside of the rotary tank, and an illumination control means for turning on the illumination lamp in accordance with a turning operation of the operation dial during each operation of washing, rinsing or dehydration. 12. The method according to claim 10 or 11.
Fully automatic washing machine according to any one of. 13. The turning operation of the operation dial is such that the illumination lamp is turned on in response to the first turning operation, and the change contents such as water flow intensity are changed by the subsequent turning operation of the operation dial. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 12, wherein: 14. A buzzer is provided, and the buzzer is caused to ring when the illumination lamp is turned on in response to a turning operation of the operation dial. Fully automatic washing machine. 15. A lighting device comprising numerical display means for displaying the rotational speed of a stirring body, a rotary tank, etc. as a numerical value as the content of the operation intensity, and after a lapse of a set time from the time when the operation dial is not turned. Is turned off and the remaining operating time is displayed on the numeral display means.
The fully automatic washing machine according to any one of 2 to 14. 16. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation dial is provided so as to be rotatable even when a loading / unloading opening for loading / unloading laundry is closed by a lid. . 17. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation dial is provided on the operation panel so as to be retractable. 18. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the operation dial is provided so as to obtain a feeling of motion every time the operation dial is rotated by a set angle. 19. A fully automatic washing machine having a washing operation function for automatically executing a washing course consisting of a washing step, a rinsing step and a dehydrating step, and an operation dial rotatably provided, and this operation. A fully automatic washing machine, comprising: a water amount adjusting means for opening / closing a water supply valve or a drain valve according to a turning operation of a dial to increase or decrease the water amount in the tub. 20. A water amount adjustment setting key for setting an operation mode in which the amount of water in the tank can be adjusted is provided, and the water amount adjustment means rotates the operation dial when the water amount adjustment setting key is operated. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 19, wherein the amount of water in the tub is adjusted according to a dynamic operation. 21. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 19, wherein the water amount adjusting means increases or decreases the amount of water in the tub by an amount of water corresponding to a rotation angle of the operation dial. 22. A display device for displaying the amount of increase or decrease of the amount of water in the tank is provided.
Fully automatic washing machine described in 9. 23. The fully automatic washing machine according to claim 19, wherein a maximum increase amount or a maximum decrease amount is set when increasing or decreasing the amount of water in the tub by the water amount adjusting means. .