A New Control Device for Washing Machines Using a Microcomputer and Detectors

A new control device using a microcomputer and detectors was developed to reduce both water and electric power consumption in automatic washing machines. The control device adopts the following detectors: a rinsing detector employing two light-emitting diode/photo- transistor assemblies for nieasuring the transmittance of the rinsing water and a load detector employing a rotation detector for measuring a load on a pulsator. These detectors not only measure the rinsing degree and the wash load but also compensate errors and variations in the detected values for accurate measurements. By using this control device, about 20 percent of both electric power and water consumption is saved as well as about 30 percent of the rinsing time. In addition, damage of the washed clothes caused by excessive washing is prevented.