| 摘要 |
<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a washing machine capable of detecting that a damper using magnetorheological fluid has reached the end of a life span and deteriorated. <P>SOLUTION: A washing machine according to this embodiment includes: an outer case; a water tank; a number of suspensions for attenuating vibration of the water tank; a current detection means; and a control means for controlling a washing operation. The suspensions includes: a shaft that moves integrally with the water tank; a cylinder; a coil that generates a magnetic field when energized; yokes provided at both ends of the coil; and a damper having magnetorheological fluid filled between the shaft, the coil, and the yoke that varies its viscosity depending on the magnetic field in the coil and increases damping force between the shaft and the coil. The current detection means detects the current that flows in the coil. The control means determines deterioration and a remaining life span of the damper based on the detection result obtained by the current detection means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2012,JPO&INPIT |
