Washing machine and control method thereof

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a washing machine capable of identifying whether the clothes in an inner drum include waterproof clothes. The washing machine includes a cabinet provided with an opening at an upper portion thereof, an outer drum provided in the cabinet, an inner drum provided in the outer drum, a motor configured to rotate the inner drum, a camera configured to capture an image of the inner drum, and a controller configured to control the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner drum to a first rotation speed during spin drying. The controller is configured to control the motor to set the rotation speed of the inner drum to a second rotation speed less than the first rotation speed based on the image of the inner drum captured by the camera during spin drying.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to a washing machine capable of identifying laundry and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] In general, a washing machine is a device including an outer tub in which water is stored and an inner tub rotatably installed in the outer tub, and the washing machine is capable of washing laundry by rotating the inner tub in which water and laundry are placed in the outer tub.

[0003] The washing machine may perform a wash cycle for washing laundry, a rinsing cycle for rinsing laundry, and a spin-drying cycle for drying laundry.

[0004] In particular, in a spin-drying cycle, water absorbed in laundry may be separated from the laundry by rotating an inner tub containing the laundry at about 1000 revolutions per minute (rpm).

[0005] Recently, bedding made of waterproof materials has been widely used for pest control. In addition, due to the increase in outdoor activities, clothing made of waterproof materials has become popular.

[0006] However, bedding made of waterproof material or clothing made of waterproof material (hereinafter referred to as "waterproof clothing") may damage the washing machine during the spin-drying cycle. For example, while water is drained after washing and / or rinsing, the waterproof clothing may collect water like a bag. While the inner drum is rotated at a high speed for spin-drying after draining, weight imbalance caused by water collected by the waterproof clothing may occur. In addition, because the inner and outer drums vibrate violently due to the weight imbalance, the washing machine may be damaged. Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] Therefore, an aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a washing machine capable of identifying whether laundry in an inner tub includes waterproof clothing, and a control method thereof.

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a washing machine and a control method thereof, the washing machine including a camera configured to capture an image of the interior of an inner tub and capable of identifying whether the clothes in the inner tub include waterproof clothing based on image data of the image of the inner tub captured by the camera.

[0010] An aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a washing machine capable of reducing a rotation speed of an inner tub during a spin-drying cycle when laundry in the inner tub includes waterproof clothing, and a control method thereof.

[0011] Additional aspects of the disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosure.

[0012] Solutions to the problem

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine includes a cabinet provided with an opening at an upper portion thereof, an outer tub provided in the cabinet, an inner tub provided in the outer tub, a motor configured to rotate the inner tub, a camera configured to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub, and a controller configured to control the motor to increase a rotation speed of the inner tub to a first rotation speed during spin drying. The controller is configured to control the motor to limit the rotation speed of the inner tub to a second rotation speed less than the first rotation speed based on the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera during spin drying.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a control method for a washing machine includes a cabinet provided with an opening at an upper portion thereof, an outer tub provided in the cabinet, and an inner tub provided in the outer tub, the control method including: increasing the rotation speed of the inner tub to a first rotation speed during spin-drying; capturing an image of the interior of the inner tub by a camera installed on an inner wall of the opening during spin-drying; and limiting the rotation speed of the inner tub to a second rotation speed less than the first rotation speed based on the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera during spin-drying.

[0015] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine includes a cabinet provided with an opening at an upper portion thereof, an outer tub provided in the cabinet, an inner tub provided in the outer tub, a motor configured to rotate the inner tub, a camera configured to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub, a processor electrically connected to the camera and the motor, and a memory configured to store at least one instruction. The memory stores at least one instruction configured to allow the processor to: control the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to a first rotation speed during spin drying; and control the motor to limit the rotation speed of the inner tub to a second rotation speed less than the first rotation speed based on the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera during spin drying.

[0016] Additional aspects of the disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosure.

[0017] Beneficial Effects

[0018] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine capable of identifying whether laundry in an inner tub includes waterproof clothing and a control method thereof may be provided.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine and a control method thereof may be provided, the washing machine including a camera configured to capture an image of the interior of an inner drum and capable of identifying whether the clothes in the inner drum include waterproof clothing based on image data of the image of the inner drum captured by the camera.

[0020] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine and a control method thereof may be provided, which is capable of reducing a rotation speed of an inner tub during a spin-drying cycle when laundry in the inner tub includes waterproof clothing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 An appearance of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0022] Figure 2 A side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on a front inner wall of an inlet.

[0023] Figure 3 A side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on a rear inner wall of an inlet.

[0024] Figure 4 A side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on a side inner wall of an inlet.

[0025] Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on the underside of a dispenser housing.

[0026] Figure 6 A side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on a lower side of a door.

[0027] Figure 7 A control configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0028] Figure 8 A control operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0029] Fig. 9 A spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0030] Fig.10 An example of the rotation speed of the inner tub during the spin-drying operation of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0031] Fig.11 Another example of the rotation speed of the inner tub during the spin-drying operation of the washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0032] Fig.12 A reference image of an inner tub of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0033] Fig.13 Illustration of general laundry arrangement in an inner drum during a spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Fig.14 An internal image of an inner tub during a spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0035] Fig.15 Illustration of arrangement of waterproof clothes in an inner drum during a spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Fig.16 An internal image of an inner drum captured during a spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0037] Fig.17 A spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0038] Fig.18 An internal image of an inner drum of a washing machine in which general laundry is placed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0039] Fig.19 An internal image of an inner drum of a washing machine in which waterproof clothes are placed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0040] Fig. 20 A spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0041] Fig.21 It is shown that a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure communicates with an external device.

[0042] Fig. 22 A control configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0043] Fig.23 A washing process of selecting a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0044] Fig.24 A warning operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0045] Fig.25 The control of the inner drum rotation of the washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0046] Fig.26 Transmission of an image of an inner tub of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] The following detailed description is provided to help the reader gain a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described herein. Therefore, various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described herein will occur to one of ordinary skill in the art. The progress of processing operations described is an example; however, except for operations that must occur in a particular order, the order and / or operations are not limited to the order and / or operations set forth herein and may be changed as known in the art. In addition, for greater clarity and conciseness, corresponding descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted.

[0048] In addition, exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the exemplary embodiments to those of ordinary skill in the art. The same numbers always represent the same elements.

[0049] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

[0050] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there can be intervening elements. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0051] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0052] Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to the like elements throughout.

[0053] The expression "at least one of a, b, and c" should be understood to include only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, or all of a, b, and c.

[0054] The present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0055] Figure 1 An appearance of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2A side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on a front inner wall of an inlet. Figure 3 A side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on a rear inner wall of an inlet. Figure 4 A side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on a side inner wall of an inlet. Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on the underside of a dispenser housing. Figure 6 A side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the washing machine including a camera provided on a lower side of a door.

[0056] Reference Figures 1 to 6 The washing machine 1 includes a cabinet 10, an outer tub 20, an inner tub 30, a pulsator 40, a motor 50, a clutch 60, a water supply pipe 71, a drain pipe 81, a detergent dispenser 91 and a camera 100.

[0057] The cabinet 10 may house components included in the washing machine 1. For example, the cabinet 10 may house the outer tub 20, the inner tub 30, the pulsator 40, the motor 50, the clutch 60, the water supply pipe 71, the drain pipe 81, the detergent dispenser 91, and the printed circuit board 18.

[0058] The cabinet 10 includes a cabinet body 11 forming a bottom wall and side walls of the washing machine 1 , and a top cover 12 covering an open top of the cabinet body 11 .

[0059] An inlet 13 for putting in and taking out laundry is provided at a central portion of an upper surface of the cabinet 10. In other words, the inlet 13 may be provided at a central portion of the top cover 12.

[0060] The entrance 13 is provided with a door 15 configured to open and close the entrance 13. The door 15 is rotatably mounted to the top cover 12 through a hinge 16. For example, the hinge 16 is mounted at the rear of the entrance 13, and the hinge 16 may be connected to the rear of the door 15.

[0061] On an upper surface of the cabinet 10 , a control panel 17 is provided, which includes a user inputter configured to obtain a user input regarding the washing machine 1 from a user and a display on which operation information of the washing machine 1 is displayed.

[0062] The user input device and the display are mounted on the printed circuit board 18 and exposed to the outside of the cabinet 10 to form the control panel 17. On the printed circuit board 18, not only the user input device and the display are mounted, but also a processor and a memory constituting a controller described below may be mounted.

[0063] The control panel 17 can be Figure 1 As shown, the printed circuit board 18 is provided on the rear side of the upper surface of the top cover 12, and the printed circuit board 18 can be provided on the lower rear side of the top cover 12 according to the control panel 17. However, the positions of the control panel 17 and the printed circuit board 18 are not limited to Figure 1 For example, the control panel 17 may be provided on the upper front surface of the top cover 12 , and the printed circuit board 18 may be provided on the lower front side of the top cover 12 .

[0064] The outer tub 20 is provided inside the cabinet 10 and may receive water for washing and / or rinsing.

[0065] The outer tub 20 may have a cylindrical shape having an open top and a closed bottom, and the outer tub 20 may have a cylindrical shape with a central axis substantially perpendicular to the bottom.

[0066] The open upper portion of the outer tub 20 corresponds to the inlet 13 of the top cover 12 , and laundry can be put into or taken out of the inner tub 30 through the inlet 13 of the top cover 12 and the open upper portion of the outer tub 20 .

[0067] A closed lower portion of the outer tub 20 , which is the bottom of the outer tub 20 , is connected to a drain pipe 81 extending to the outside of the washing machine 1 .

[0068] A hole through which the motor shaft 53 of the motor 50 passes is provided at a central portion of the bottom surface of the outer tub 20 , and a bearing 21 for rotatably fixing the motor shaft 53 of the motor 50 is provided on an inner wall of the hole.

[0069] The inner tub 30 may be rotatably provided inside the outer tub 20 and may accommodate laundry.

[0070] The inner barrel 30 may have a cylindrical shape with an open top and a closed bottom, and the inner barrel 30 may have a cylindrical shape with its central axis being substantially perpendicular to the bottom. In addition, the inner barrel 30 may rotate around a rotation axis substantially similar to the central axis of the cylinder.

[0071] A through hole 31 configured to connect the inside of the inner tub 30 to the outside of the inner tub 30 , which is the inside of the outer tub, is formed on a sidewall of the inner tub 30 .

[0072] The open upper portion of the inner tub 30 corresponds to the inlet 13 of the top cover 12 , and laundry is put into or taken out of the inner tub 30 through the inlet 13 of the top cover 12 and the open upper portion of the inner tub 30 .

[0073] The bottom surface of the inner tub 30 may be connected to the outer shaft 63b of the motor 50 configured to rotate the inner tub 30, and thus the bottom surface may be rotated by the rotation of the motor 50, the rotation of which is transmitted through the outer shaft 63b. A hole through which the inner shaft 63a of the motor 50 connected to the pulsator 40 passes is provided on the bottom surface of the inner tub 30.

[0074] The pulsator 40 is rotatably provided at an inner side of the bottom surface of the inner tub 30 .

[0075] The pulsator 40 may rotate independently of the inner tub 30. In other words, the pulsator 40 may rotate in the same direction as or in a different direction from the inner tub 30. In addition, the pulsator 40 may rotate at the same or different rotation speed as the inner tub 30.

[0076] The pulsator 40 may be connected to an inner shaft 63 a of the motor 50 that passes through the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 , and may be rotated by the rotation of the motor 50 , the rotation of which is transmitted through the inner shaft 63 a .

[0077] The pulsator 40 may rotate to generate a water flow inside the inner tub 30 during washing or rinsing. Friction between water and laundry is generated by the water flow, and laundry may be washed by the friction between the water and the laundry.

[0078] The motor 50 and the clutch 60 may be provided outside (below) the bottom surface of the outer tub 20 .

[0079] The clutch 60 includes a clutch housing fixed to the bottom surface of the outer tub 20 and a reduction gear 61 configured to reduce the rotation and transmit the reduced rotation.

[0080] The motor 50 includes a stator 51 fixed to the clutch housing and a rotatable rotor 52. For example, the motor 50 may include a brushless DC motor (BLDC motor) or a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) whose rotation speed is easily controlled.

[0081] The rotor 52 rotates by magnetic interaction with the stator 51 and is connected to the motor shaft 53. The motor shaft 53 can be selectively connected to the outer shaft 63b and the inner shaft 63a of the clutch 60. The outer shaft 63b and the inner shaft 63a can rotatably penetrate the outer barrel 20 through the bearing 21 of the outer barrel 20. The outer shaft 63b can be connected to the inner barrel 30, and the inner shaft 63a can be connected to the pulsator 40.

[0082] The clutch 60 may transmit the rotation of the motor shaft 53 to the outer shaft 63b and the inner shaft 63a without change, or the clutch 60 may decelerate the rotation of the motor shaft 53 and then transmit the decelerated rotation to the inner shaft 63a. The reduction gear 61 of the clutch 60 may decelerate the rotation of the motor shaft 53 and then transmit the decelerated rotation to the inner shaft 63a.

[0083] For example, during washing or rinsing, the clutch 60 can connect the motor shaft 53 to the inner shaft 63a, and decelerate the rotation of the motor shaft 53 through the reduction gear 61, and then transmit the decelerated rotation to the inner shaft 63a. Therefore, during washing or rinsing, while the inner tub 30 is not driven, the pulsator 40 can rotate at a low speed.

[0084] In addition, during the spin-drying, the clutch 60 can connect the motor shaft 53 to both the outer shaft 63b and the inner shaft 63a, and transmit the rotation of the motor shaft 53 to the outer shaft 63b and the inner shaft 63a without change. Therefore, during the spin-drying, the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 can rotate at a high speed.

[0085] The water supply pipe 71 may be provided above the outer tub 20, and may supply water from an external water supply source to the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30. A water supply valve 72 is provided on the water supply pipe 71.

[0086] The water supply pipe 71 may extend from an external water supply source to the detergent dispenser 91 and guide water to the outer tub 20 through the detergent dispenser 91 .

[0087] The water supply valve 72 may allow or prevent water from being supplied from an external water supply source to the outer tub 20 in response to an electrical signal. For example, the water supply valve 72 may employ a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0088] The drain pipe 81 may be provided below the outer tub 20 and drain water contained in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 to the outside. A drain valve 82 is provided on the drain pipe 81 .

[0089] The drain valve 82 may allow or prevent water from being discharged from the outer tub 20 in response to an electrical signal. For example, the drain valve 82 may employ a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0090] The detergent dispenser 91 may be provided above the outer tub 20, and stores detergent and supplies detergent together with water to the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30. The dispenser case 92 may accommodate the detergent dispenser 91, and the detergent dispenser 91 may be taken out of the dispenser case 92.

[0091] The detergent dispenser 91 may be connected to the water supply pipe 71, and water supplied through the water supply pipe 71 may be mixed with the detergent of the detergent dispenser 91. The mixture of detergent and water may be supplied from the detergent dispenser 91 to the outer tub 20.

[0092] The camera 100 may capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 and generate image data corresponding to the captured image of the inside of the inner tub 30 (hereinafter referred to as “image of the inner tub”).

[0093] The camera 100 may be provided on the inner walls 13a, 13b, 13c and 13d of the entrance 13 of the top cover 12. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, inner walls 13a, 13b, 13c and 13d may be formed in the inlet 13 of the top cover 12, and the inner walls 13a, 13b, 13c and 13d of the inlet 13 include a front inner wall 13a, a rear inner wall 13b, a left inner wall 13c and a right inner wall 13d.

[0094] For example, the camera 100 may be provided on the front inner wall 13a of the entrance 13. A protrusion 14 protruding from the front inner wall 13a to the center of the entrance 13 may be formed on the front inner wall 13a of the entrance 13, and the camera 100 may be installed in a lower portion of the protrusion 14.

[0095] Since the camera 100 is installed in the lower portion of the protrusion 14 protruding from the front inner wall 13a to the center of the inlet 13, the camera 100 can have a field of view toward the inside of the inner tub 30. Therefore, the camera 100 can capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 and output image data corresponding to the captured image of the inner tub 30.

[0096] The protrusion 14 may be integrally formed with the front inner wall 13 a of the inlet 13 , and thus the camera 100 may be prevented from being wetted by water during washing, rinsing, or spin-drying.

[0097] The camera 100 may include a lens and an image sensor, and the image sensor may employ a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor or a charge coupled device (CCD) image sensor.

[0098] The camera 100 is electrically connected to the printed circuit board 18 through the wire 101. The camera 100 may receive power from the printed circuit board 18 through the wire 101. In addition, the camera 100 may receive a control signal from the printed circuit board 18 through the wire 101, and transmit image data of the captured image of the inner tub 30 to the printed circuit board 18 through the wire 101.

[0099] The wire 101 may extend from the camera 100 to the printed circuit board 18. For example, when the printed circuit board 18 is provided on the lower rear side of the top cover 12, the wire 101 may be routed along the lower portion of the top cover 12 around the inlet 13 so as not to be seen by the user, and then extend from the camera 100 to the printed circuit board 18. Alternatively, when the printed circuit board 18 is provided on the lower front side of the top cover 12, the wire 101 may extend from the camera 100 mounted on the front inner wall 13a of the inlet 13 of the top cover 12 to the printed circuit board 18 mounted on the lower front side of the top cover 12.

[0100] However, the position of the camera 100 is not limited to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Position shown.

[0101] For example, Figure 3 As shown, the camera 100 may be provided on the rear inner wall 13b of the inlet 13 of the top cover 12. A protrusion 14 protruding forward from the rear inner wall 13b may be formed on the rear inner wall 13b of the inlet 13, and the camera 100 may be installed in a lower portion of the protrusion 14.

[0102] The camera 100 installed in the lower portion of the protrusion 14 may have a field of view toward the inside of the inner tub 30 , and the camera 100 may capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 .

[0103] The camera 100 is electrically connected to the printed circuit board 18 through the wire 101. For example, when the printed circuit board 18 is provided on the lower rear side of the top cover 12, the wire 101 can extend from the camera 100 installed on the rear inner wall 13b of the entrance 13 of the top cover 12 to the printed circuit board 18 installed on the lower rear side of the top cover 12.

[0104] Or, if Figure 4 As shown, the camera 100 may be provided on the left inner wall 13c or the right inner wall 13d of the entrance 13 of the top cover 12. A protrusion 14 protruding forward from the rear inner wall 13b may be formed on the left inner wall 13c or the right inner wall 13d of the entrance 13, and the camera 100 may be installed in the lower part of the protrusion 14.

[0105] The camera 100 installed in the lower portion of the protrusion 14 may have a field of view toward the inside of the inner tub 30 , and the camera 100 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 18 through a wire 101 .

[0106] However, when the camera 100 is provided on the inner walls 13a, 13b, 13c, and 13d of the entrance, the installation position of the camera 100 is not limited to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The position shown, therefore the camera 100 may be installed at any position capable of having a field of view from the inner walls 13 a , 13 b , 13 c , and 13 d of the inlet 13 toward the interior of the inner tub 30 .

[0107] Or, if Figure 5 As shown, the camera 100 may be provided at a lower side of the dispenser housing 92. The dispenser housing 92 may accommodate a detergent dispenser 91 containing detergent, and may be provided in a lower portion of a rear inner wall 13b of the inlet 13.

[0108] The camera 100 provided on the underside of the dispenser housing 92 may have a field of view toward the interior of the inner barrel 30 and may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 18 via wires 101 .

[0109] Or, if Figure 6 As shown, the camera 100 may be provided on the lower side of the door 15 .

[0110] When the door 15 is closed, the camera 100 provided at the lower side of the door 15 may have a field of view toward the inside of the inner tub 30 and may capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 .

[0111] When the door 15 is open, the field of view of the camera 100 provided on the lower side of the door 15 may be directed to the front of the washing machine 1. To protect the user's privacy, when the door 15 is open, power may not be supplied to the camera 100. Alternatively, when the door 15 is open, the camera 100 may be prevented from capturing images.

[0112] The camera 100 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 18 via electrical wires 101 .

[0113] The wire 101 may extend along the lower portion of the door 15 to the printed circuit board 18. For example, the wire 101 may extend directly from the lower portion of the door 15 to the lower portion 12 of the top cover. However, since the door 15 is rotatably mounted on the top cover 12, the wire 101 may be disconnected when the door 5 is opened and closed.

[0114] To prevent this, the wire 101 may extend from the lower portion of the door 15 through the hinge 16 to the lower portion of the top cover 12. For example, a hole may be formed at the center of the portion where the hinge 16 rotates when the door 5 is opened and closed, and the wire 101 may be inserted into the hole to pass through the hole of the hinge 16.

[0115] In addition, a first electrode connected to the camera 100 may be provided at a portion where the door 15 contacts the top cover 12, and a second electrode connected to the printed circuit board 18 may be provided at a portion where the top cover 12 contacts the door 15. The camera 100 may be electrically connected to the printed circuit board 18 through contact of the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0116] As described above, the camera 100 may be installed at various locations capable of having a field of view toward the inside of the inner tub 30 , and the location is not limited to this detailed description and drawings.

[0117] Hereinafter, a control configuration and a control operation of the washing machine 1 for washing, rinsing, and drying laundry will be described.

[0118] Figure 7 A control configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 8 A control operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0119] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 , the washing machine 1 includes a user input device 110, a display 120, a vibration sensor 130, a camera 100, a driver 140, a water supplier 150, a drainer 160, and a controller 170. In addition, the washing machine 1 can perform detection of the amount of laundry (1010), a washing cycle (1020), a rinsing cycle (1030), and a spin-drying cycle (1040).

[0120] The driver 140 includes a motor driving circuit 141, a motor 50, and a clutch 60. The water supplier 150 includes a water supply valve 72, and the drainer 160 includes a drain valve 82.

[0121] The motor 50, the water supply valve 72 and the water supply valve 72 can be used with reference Figure 2 The same is true, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0122] The user input 110 is provided on the control panel 17 of the top cover 12 and includes a dial 111 configured to obtain a user input through a rotational motion and an input button 112 configured to obtain a user input through a vertical motion.

[0123] The user can select any one of the plurality of washing processes by rotating the turntable 111. The washing machine 1 may include a plurality of different washing processes for washing different kinds of clothes. Different washing processes may include different washing times, different rinsing times, and different spin-drying times.

[0124] The input buttons 112 may include: a wash button configured to adjust the washing time of the laundry machine 1; a rinse button configured to adjust the number of rinses of the laundry machine 1; and a spin button configured to adjust the spin time of the laundry machine 1. In addition, the input buttons 112 may include: a power button configured to allow or prevent power from being supplied from an external power source; and an operation button configured to start or stop the operation of the laundry machine 1.

[0125] In response to a user input received from the user, the dial 111 and the input button 112 may transmit an electrical signal (voltage or current) corresponding to the user input to the controller 170 .

[0126] The display 120 may be mounted on the control panel 17 of the top cover 12 and display the operating state of the washing machine 1 and the user's control command. For example, the display 120 may display the washing course selected by the user, and during operation, the washing machine 1 may display the remaining time until the operation is completed.

[0127] The display 120 may include a light emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) panel, or a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel.

[0128] The display 172 may employ a touch screen panel (TSP) configured to receive a control command from a user and display operation information corresponding to the received control command.

[0129] As mentioned above, the display 120 may receive a display control signal from the controller 170 and display an image corresponding to the display control signal.

[0130] The vibration sensor 130 may be provided at the outside of the outer tub 20 , detect vibration of the outer tub 20 , and provide information on the vibration of the outer tub 20 to the controller 170 .

[0131] The vibration sensor 130 may include an acceleration sensor configured to detect acceleration caused by the vibration of the outer tub 20. The acceleration sensor may measure x-axis acceleration, y-axis acceleration, and / or z-axis acceleration caused by the vibration of the outer tub 20, and output output data indicating the x-axis acceleration, y-axis acceleration, and / or z-axis acceleration.

[0132] The vibration sensor 130 may transmit the acceleration data output from the acceleration sensor to the controller 170 without change. Alternatively, the vibration sensor 130 may calculate the amplitude caused by the vibration of the outer tub 20 based on the acceleration data and provide information about the amplitude of the outer tub 20 to the controller 170. The controller 170 may calculate the amplitude of the outer tub 20 based on the acceleration data received from the vibration sensor 130 or obtain the amplitude of the outer tub 20 from the vibration sensor 130.

[0133] The motor driving circuit 141 may be provided near the motor 50 .

[0134] The motor driving circuit 141 may supply driving current to the motor 50. The motor driving circuit 141 may convert AC power of an external power source into driving power (DC power or AC power) for driving the motor 50.

[0135] The motor driving circuit 141 may have various topologies depending on the type of the motor 50 .

[0136] For example, when the motor 50 is a DC motor, the motor drive circuit 141 can convert AC power (AC voltage and AC current) supplied from an external power supply into DC power (DC voltage and DC current) and intermittently supply DC power to the motor 50 (that is, the motor drive circuit 141 applies a DC voltage and supplies DC power to the motor).

[0137] When the motor 50 is a BLDC, the motor driving circuit 141 may convert AC power into DC power and then convert the DC power back into square wave AC power. Thereafter, the motor driving circuit 141 may supply square wave AC power to the motor 50.

[0138] When the motor 50 is a PMSM, the motor drive circuit 141 may convert AC power into DC power and then convert the DC power into sinusoidal AC power. Thereafter, the motor drive circuit 141 may supply sinusoidal AC power to the motor 50.

[0139] When the motor 50 is an induction motor, the motor driving circuit 141 may intermittently supply AC power supplied from an external power source to the motor 50 .

[0140] In addition, in order to prevent damage to the motor 50 due to overload, the motor driving circuit 141 can detect the first driving current supplied to the motor 50 and provide information about the first driving current (eg, the driving current value) to the controller 170 .

[0141] The camera 100 may capture an image of the interior of the inner tub 30 and provide image data corresponding to the captured image of the inner tub 30 to the controller 170. For example, when laundry is placed in the inner tub 30, the camera 100 may capture an image of the laundry contained inside the inner tub 30 and provide image data corresponding to the image including the laundry to the controller.

[0142] As described above, the camera 100 may be provided on the inner walls 13 a , 13 b , 13 c , and 13 d of the entrance 13 or on the lower portion of the door 15 , and the camera 100 may have a field of view toward the inside of the inner tub 30 .

[0143] The controller 170 may be mounted on a printed circuit board 18 provided on a rear surface of the control panel 17 .

[0144] The controller 170 is electrically connected to the user input 110 , the display 120 , the vibration sensor 130 , the motor driving circuit 141 , the camera 100 , the water supply valve 72 , and the water discharge valve 82 .

[0145] The controller 170 may control the display 120 , the motor 50 , the water supply valve 72 , and the drain valve 82 based on signals, information, or data output from the user input 110 , the vibration sensor 130 , and the camera 100 .

[0146] The controller 170 includes a processor 171 configured to generate a control signal for controlling the operation of the washing machine 1, and a memory 172 configured to memorize or store a program and data for generating a control signal for controlling the operation of the washing machine 1. The processor 171 and the memory 172 may be implemented as separate chips or may be implemented as a single chip. In addition, the controller 170 may include a plurality of processors or a plurality of memories.

[0147] The processor 171 may process data and / or signals according to a program provided from the memory 172 , and provide a control signal to each component of the washing machine 1 based on the processing result.

[0148] The processor 171 may receive an electrical signal regarding a user input from the user inputter 110 and receive data regarding vibration of the outer tub 20 from the vibration sensor 130. In addition, the processor 171 may receive image data corresponding to an internal image of the inner tub 30 from the camera 100.

[0149] The processor 171 may process an electrical signal related to a user input, data related to the temperature of the outer tub 20 , and image data related to an internal image of the inner tub 30 .

[0150] The processor 171 may provide a motor control signal to the motor driving circuit 141 based on the processing of the user input, provide a water supply signal to the water supply valve 72, and provide a drainage signal to the drainage valve 82. For example, the processor 171 may identify the washing process selected by the user based on the processing of the user input, select the rotation speed and operation cycle (e.g., opening time and closing time) of the inner tub 30 according to the washing process selected by the user, and provide a motor signal to the motor driving circuit 141, which is used to rotate the motor 50 according to the selected rotation speed and operation cycle.

[0151] The processor 171 may provide a motor control signal to the motor driving circuit 141, a water supply signal to the water supply valve 72, and a drainage signal to the drainage valve 82 based on processing of the image data of the internal image of the inner tub 30. For example, the processor 171 may recognize the arrangement of the clothes contained in the inner tub 30 by processing the image data of the internal image of the inner tub 30, and provide a motor signal to the motor driving circuit 141, which is used to control the rotation speed of the inner tub 30 based on the arrangement of the clothes.

[0152] The processor 171 may include an arithmetic circuit, a storage circuit, and a control circuit. The processor 171 may include one chip or multiple chips. In addition, the processor 171 may include one core processor or may include multiple core processors.

[0153] The memory 172 may memorize or store programs and data for controlling the operation of the washing machine 1 according to the washing process. For example, the memory 172 may memorize or store the rotation speed of the inner tub 30 according to the washing process and the washing time, rinsing number and spin time according to the washing process.

[0154] The memory 172 may store a user input received through the dial 111 and the input button 112, or information about the operation of the washing machine 1 (eg, a currently executed cycle and a time remaining until the operation of the washing machine is completed).

[0155] The memory 172 may include volatile memory such as static random access memory (S-RAM) and dynamic random access memory (D-RAM) and nonvolatile memory such as read only memory (ROM) and erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM).

[0156] Memory 172 may include one storage element or multiple storage elements.

[0157] The processor 171 may generate a control signal for controlling the washing machine 1 to perform the following operations, and the memory 172 may store instructions for causing the processor 171 to generate the control signal.

[0158] like Figure 8 As shown, the controller 170 can control each configuration of the washing machine 1 to wash, rinse, spin and dry the laundry. The controller 170 can measure the amount of laundry (1010) and sequentially perform a washing cycle (1020), a rinsing cycle (1030) and a spin cycle (1040).

[0159] The controller 170 measures the amount of laundry (1010).

[0160] According to the increase or decrease of the amount of laundry, the inertia of the inner tub 30 increases. In addition, a larger torque and a larger driving current are required to accelerate the rotation of the inner tub 30.

[0161] The controller 170 can measure the amount of laundry by supplying a predetermined amount of current to the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 in a forward or reverse direction, thereby detecting the rotation speed of the inner tub 30 by the supplied current. The controller 170 can recognize the amount of laundry based on the measured rotation speed of the inner tub 30.

[0162] The controller 170 performs a washing cycle (1020).

[0163] The controller 170 may supply water and detergent to the outer tub 20 (1021). The controller 170 may open the water supply valve 72 based on the measured amount of laundry to supply water to the outer tub 20. By opening the water supply valve 72, water may be supplied to the outer tub 20 via the detergent dispenser 91. In addition, during the first water supply for washing, detergent may be supplied to the outer tub 20 together with water.

[0164] The controller 170 may rotate the pulsator 40 at a low speed for washing (1022). The controller 170 may control the clutch 60 to allow the rotation of the motor 50 to be transmitted to the pulsator 40, and control the motor 50 to rotate the pulsator 40 at a low speed (e.g., a rotation speed from about 45 rpm to 60 rpm). The controller 170 may control the motor 50 to rotate the pulsator 40 alternately in a first direction and a second direction. During the alternation of the pulsator 40 in the first direction and the second direction, the clothes in the inner tub 30 may be washed by friction with the water.

[0165] After washing, the controller 170 drains water from the outer tub 20 (1023). The controller 170 may open the drain valve 82 to allow the water of the outer tub 20 to be drained. The water of the outer tub 20 may be drained to the outside by opening the drain valve 82.

[0166] The controller 170 can rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at high speed for intermediate spin drying (1024). The controller 170 can control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at high speed (e.g., a rotation speed from about 900rpm to 1000rpm). During the high-speed rotation of the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40, the clothes in the inner tub 30 can be positioned along the inner wall of the inner tub 30, and the water absorbed by the clothes can be separated from the clothes by centrifugal force. The water separated from the clothes can pass through the through hole 31 of the inner tub 30 and then be discharged to the outside through the outer tub 20 and the drain pipe 81.

[0167] Thereafter, the controller 170 performs a rinsing cycle (1030). The controller 170 may supply water to the outer tub 20 (1031) and rotate the pulsator 40 at a low speed for rinsing (1032). During the alternation of the pulsator 40 in the first direction and the second direction, the clothes in the inner tub 30 may be rinsed by friction with the water. The controller 170 may drain the water of the outer tub 20 (1033), and may rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at a high speed for intermediate spin drying (1034).

[0168] The controller 170 may perform the rinsing cycle multiple times. In addition, the controller 170 may omit the intermediate spin-drying in the last rinsing cycle.

[0169] Thereafter, the controller 170 performs a spin-drying cycle (1040). The controller 170 may rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at a high speed (1041).

[0170] As described above, in order to wash laundry, the controller 170 may perform a washing cycle (1020), a rinsing cycle (1030), and a spin-drying cycle (1040).

[0171] During the washing cycle (1020), the rinsing cycle (1030), and the spin-drying cycle (1040), the washing machine 1 may perform spin-drying in which the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 are rotated at a high speed one or more times.

[0172] Because the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 rotate at high speed, the center of gravity of the clothes and the inner tub 30 deviates from the rotation axis of the inner tub 30 (when weight imbalance occurs). Therefore, the outer tub 20 may vibrate violently together with the inner tub 30. In some cases, the washing machine 1 may be damaged due to the vibration of the outer tub 20.

[0173] As is well known, the unbalance of the inner tub 30 is caused by the laundry contained in the inner tub 30, and the unbalance of the inner tub 30 is caused by the tangled laundry.

[0174] In particular, clothing or bedding formed of a waterproof material that is impermeable or water does not pass among the clothes may significantly cause an imbalance in the inner tub 30. For example, the waterproof clothing or bedding may collect water as if it were a water bag, and during the rotation of the inner tub 30 at a high speed, the waterproof clothing or bedding may cause a weight imbalance in the inner tub 30.

[0175] In order to prevent imbalance caused by such clothing or bedding formed of waterproof material (hereinafter referred to as "waterproof clothing"), the washing machine 1 can identify waterproof clothing contained in the clothing based on the image of the inner drum 30 captured by the camera 100, and reduce the rotation speed of the inner drum 30 for spin drying in response to detecting the waterproof clothing.

[0176] Regarding the washing machine 1, the method for identifying waterproof clothing included in the clothing is not limited to including the camera 100. Alternatively, the washing machine 1 may include various configurations for identifying waterproof clothing. For example, the washing machine 1 may include an infrared sensor configured to emit infrared rays and receive infrared rays reflected by an object, an ultrasonic sensor configured to emit ultrasonic waves and receive ultrasonic waves reflected by an object, or a radar sensor configured to emit radio waves and receive radio waves reflected by an object.

[0177] Hereinafter, an operation of the washing machine 1 for preventing unbalance due to waterproof laundry will be described.

[0178] Fig. 9 A spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Fig.10 An example of the rotation speed of the inner tub during the spin-drying operation of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.11 Another example of the rotation speed of the inner tub during the spin-drying operation of the washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.12 A reference image showing an inner tub 30 of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.13Illustration of general laundry arrangement in an inner drum during a spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.14 An internal image of an inner tub during a spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.15 Illustration of arrangement of waterproof clothes in an inner drum during a spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.16 An internal image of an inner tub captured during a spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0179] Washing machine 1 can perform Fig. 9 The spin drying operation (1100) shown. Figures 9 to 16 The spin drying operation (1100) is described.

[0180] The washing machine 1 rotates the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the first rotation speed RS1 to perform spin drying (1110).

[0181] During the middle spin (1024) of the washing cycle (1020), the middle spin (1034) of the rinsing cycle (1030), or the final spin (1041) of the spin cycle (1040), the controller 170 may control the clutch 60 to transfer the rotation of the motor 50 to the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 without change, and control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40. Therefore, the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 may rotate at the same speed as the motor 50.

[0182] During the spin drying (1024, 1034 or 1041), the controller 170 may increase the speed of the motor 50 in stages until the speed of the motor 50 reaches the first speed RS1. For example, the controller 170 may initially increase the speed of the motor 50 to 40 rpm, as shown in FIG. Fig.10 As shown, and when the speed of the motor 50 reaches 40rpm, the controller 170 can maintain the speed of the motor 50 for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the controller 170 can increase the speed of the motor 50 to 140rpm, and when the speed of the motor 50 reaches 140rpm, the controller 170 can maintain the speed of the motor 50 for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the controller 170 can increase the speed of the motor 50 to 300rpm, and when the speed of the motor 50 reaches 300rpm, the controller 170 can maintain the speed of the motor 50 for a predetermined time.

[0183] The first rotation speed RS1 may be less than the maximum rotation speed for spin drying (1024, 1034, or 1041). For example, when the maximum rotation speed for spin drying (1024, 1034, or 1041) is set to 900 rpm, the first rotation speed RS1 may be a rotation speed less than 900 rpm. For example, the first rotation speed RS1 may be 300 rpm or 450 rpm.

[0184] Thereafter, the washing machine 1 captures an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 (1120).

[0185] The controller 170 may control the camera 100 to capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 , and may control the camera 100 to transmit image data corresponding to the captured image of the inner tub 30 to the controller 170 .

[0186] The controller 170 can control the camera 100 to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub 30 while controlling the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the first rotation speed RS1. Alternatively, the controller 170 can control the camera 100 to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub 30 after controlling the motor 50 to stop the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40.

[0187] For example, Fig.10 As shown, the controller 170 can control the motor 50 to increase the rotation speed in stages until the rotation speed of the motor 50 reaches 300 rpm. During the period when the motor 50 rotates at 300 rpm, that is, during the period when the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 rotate at 300 rpm, the controller 170 can control the camera 100 to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub 30, and receive image data corresponding to the internal image of the inner tub 30 from the camera 100.

[0188] Or, if Fig.11 As shown, when the rotation speed of the motor 50 reaches 450rpm, the controller 170 can control the motor 50 to stop its rotation. During the stop of the motor 50, that is, during the stop of the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40, the controller 170 can control the camera 100 to capture the image of the interior of the inner tub 30 and receive image data corresponding to the internal image of the inner tub 30 from the camera 100.

[0189] The washing machine 1 identifies whether the arrangement of the laundry in the inner tub 30 is the same as or similar to a predetermined arrangement (1130).

[0190] The controller 170 may process the image data received from the camera 100 and recognize the arrangement of the laundry based on the processing of the image data.

[0191] For example, the controller 170 may recognize the arrangement of the laundry based on a difference between image data of a previously captured reference interior image and image data of a currently captured interior image of the inner tub 30 .

[0192] like Fig.12 As shown, the controller 170 may pre-store image data of an interior image of the inner tub 30 in which no laundry is placed (hereinafter referred to as a 'reference image of the inner tub').

[0193] The controller 170 may correct the captured internal image so that the center of the inner barrel displayed on the reference image of the inner barrel 30 matches the center of the inner barrel displayed on the captured image of the inner barrel 30, and the controller 170 may obtain image data of a difference image indicating the difference between the reference image of the inner barrel 30 and the captured image of the inner barrel 30.

[0194] The difference between the reference image of the inner tub 30 and the captured image of the inner tub 30 corresponds to the arrangement of the laundry. Therefore, the controller 170 can recognize the arrangement of the laundry based on the image data of the difference image between the reference image of the inner tub 30 and the captured image of the inner tub 30.

[0195] In the case of general laundry, after the inner tub 30 rotates at the first rotation speed RS1, the arrangement of the laundry in the inner tub 30 may have a substantially ring shape.

[0196] When the inner tub 30 rotates at the first speed RS1, centrifugal force is applied to the clothes contained in the inner tub 30. Due to the centrifugal force, the general clothes contained in the inner tub 30 may move toward the inner wall of the inner tub 30, such as Fig.13 Therefore, an empty space without clothes is formed in the center portion of the inner tub 30, and clothes are located in the edge portion of the inner tub 30.

[0197] In the case of general laundry, the internal image of the inner tub 30 captured by the camera 100 after the inner tub 30 rotates at the first rotation speed RS1 may include laundry such as Fig.14 The arrangement shown is in a substantially circular image because generally the clothes are located at the edge portion of the interior of the inner tub 30 .

[0198] Based on the result of processing the difference between the inner tub 30 reference image of the inner tub 30 and the inner tub 30 interior image captured after the inner tub 30 rotates at the first speed RS1, the controller 170 can identify whether the laundry is general laundry. In particular, the controller 170 can identify whether the laundry is general laundry based on the shape of the laundry being arranged in a roughly ring shape.

[0199] For example, the controller 170 may obtain a difference image between an inner barrel 30 reference image and a captured inner barrel 30 interior image of the inner barrel 30, and calculate brightness values ​​of a plurality of pixels contained in the difference image. The controller 170 may identify an area in which the brightness value is greater than a reference value based on the brightness values ​​of the plurality of pixels. The brightness values ​​of the plurality of pixels of the difference image of a portion in which the inner barrel 30 reference image and the captured inner barrel 30 interior image are identical or similar to each other may be less than the reference value. The brightness values ​​of the plurality of pixels of the difference image of a portion in which the inner barrel 30 reference image and the captured inner barrel 30 interior image are different from each other may be greater than the reference value.

[0200] The area where the brightness value is greater than the reference value corresponds to the area where the laundry is located in the inner tub 30. The controller 170 may recognize that the area where the brightness value is greater than the reference value (the area where the laundry is located) has a substantially ring shape. The controller 170 may recognize that the area where the laundry is located has a substantially ring shape based on that the brightness value of the central portion of the area where the brightness value is greater than the reference value is less than the reference value.

[0201] Regarding the waterproof clothes, after the inner tub 30 rotates at the first rotation speed RS1, the arrangement of the clothes in the inner tub 30 may have a substantially disc shape.

[0202] When the inner tub 30 rotates at the first rotation speed RS1, centrifugal force is applied to the laundry contained in the inner tub 30. The centrifugal force may also be applied to the waterproof laundry contained in the inner tub 30.

[0203] Waterproof clothing, especially a bedspread formed of a waterproof material, is larger than other clothing, so centrifugal force can be applied to each part of the bedspread in different directions. The position of the large-sized bedspread is not limited to a specific position in the inner tub 30, so the large-sized bedspread can be widely arranged in the inner tub 30. Because the centrifugal force is applied radially from the center of the inner tub, the centrifugal force can be applied to each part of the bedspread widely arranged in the inner tub 30 in different directions.

[0204] The bed cover may be widely spread in the inner tub 30 because the centrifugal force is applied in different directions. At this time, the bed cover formed of a waterproof material may collect water used for washing or rinsing, such as Fig.15 A waterproof mattress cover may collect water as if it were a water bag, so the water may not be able to drain to the outside due to the mattress cover.

[0205] Therefore, water collected by the waterproof clothing may cause imbalance during high-speed rotation of the inner tub 30 , and the imbalance may cause severe vibrations in the outer tub 20 and the inner tub 30 .

[0206] Regarding waterproof clothes, the internal image of the inner tub 30 captured by the camera 100 after the inner tub 30 rotates at the first rotation speed RS1 may include an image in which the clothes are arranged in a substantially circular (or disc-shaped) shape, such as Fig.16 As shown, because the waterproof clothing is widely spread out in the inner tub 30.

[0207] The controller 170 can identify whether the clothes are waterproof clothes based on the processing of the difference between the inner tub 30 reference image of the inner tub 30 and the inner tub 30 interior image captured after the inner tub 30 rotates at the first rotation speed RS1. In particular, the controller 170 can identify whether the clothes are waterproof clothes based on whether the clothes are arranged in a substantially ring shape.

[0208] For example, the controller 170 may identify the area where the laundry is located inside the inner tub 30 based on the brightness values ​​of a plurality of pixels included in the difference image between the reference image of the inner tub 30 and the captured image of the inside of the inner tub 30. The controller 170 may identify that the area (area where the laundry is located) where the brightness value is greater than the reference value does not have a substantially ring shape. The controller 170 may identify that the area where the laundry is located does not have a substantially ring shape based on the brightness value of the central portion of the area where the brightness value is greater than the reference value being greater than the reference value.

[0209] When the arrangement of the laundry in the inner tub 30 is the same as or similar to the predetermined arrangement (Yes in 1130), the washing machine 1 rotates the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the second rotation speed RS2 (1140).

[0210] When the laundry arrangement recognized using the internal image of the inner tub 30 is the same as or similar to a substantially circular shape, the controller 170 may recognize that the laundry contained in the inner tub 30 is general laundry. In other words, the controller 170 may recognize that the laundry contained in the inner tub 30 does not include waterproof laundry.

[0211] Therefore, the controller 170 can control the motor 50 according to a general spin-drying cycle. The controller 170 can control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at a second speed. The second speed may be about 950 rpm.

[0212] The controller 170 may increase the rotation speed of the motor 50 to the second rotation speed in stages.

[0213] For example, the controller 170 may increase the speed of the motor 50 from 300 rpm to 450 rpm. Fig.10 As shown, when the speed of the motor 50 reaches 450 rpm, the controller 170 may maintain the speed of the motor 50 for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the controller 170 may repeat the operation of increasing the speed of the motor 50 in stages (particularly, 700 rpm, 900 rpm, and 950 rpm in sequence) and maintaining the speed of the motor 50 for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the controller 170 may gradually reduce the speed of the motor 50.

[0214] Or, if Fig.11 As shown, the controller 170 may repeat the operation of increasing the speed of the motor 50 in stages (particularly, 40 rpm, 140 rpm, 300 rpm, 450 rpm, 700 rpm, 900 rpm and 950 rpm in sequence) and maintaining the speed of the motor 50 for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the controller 170 may gradually reduce the speed of the motor 50.

[0215] When the arrangement of the laundry in the inner tub 30 is not the same as or similar to the predetermined arrangement (No in 1130), the washing machine 1 rotates the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the third rotation speed RS3 (1150).

[0216] When the arrangement of the clothes recognized using the internal image of the inner tub 30 is not the same as or similar to the substantially circular shape, the controller 170 can recognize that the clothes contained in the inner tub 30 include waterproof clothes. In other words, when the arrangement of the clothes is substantially circular, the controller 170 can recognize that the clothes contained in the inner tub 30 include waterproof clothes.

[0217] The controller 170 may control the motor 50 according to a spin cycle in which the rotation speed of the inner tub 30 for spin drying is reduced. The controller 170 may control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at a third rotation speed less than the second rotation speed. The third rotation speed may be about 450 rpm.

[0218] For example, the controller 170 may increase the speed of the motor 50 from 300 rpm to 450 rpm. Fig.11 As shown, when the rotation speed of the motor 50 reaches 450 rpm, the controller 170 may maintain the rotation speed of the motor 50 for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the controller 170 may gradually reduce the rotation speed of the motor 50.

[0219] Or, if Fig.11 As shown, the controller 170 may repeat the operation of increasing the speed of the motor 50 in stages (particularly, 40 rpm, 140 rpm, 300 rpm and 450 rpm in sequence) and maintaining the speed of the motor 50 for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the controller 170 may gradually reduce the speed of the motor 50.

[0220] After stopping the rotation of the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40, the washing machine 1 may continue the rinsing cycle or notify the user that the washing is completed.

[0221] As mentioned above, the washing machine 1 may include a camera 100 configured to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub 30, and the washing machine 1 may adjust the rotation speed of the motor 50 for spin-drying based on the internal image of the inner tub 30. The washing machine 1 may recognize the arrangement of the clothes based on the internal image of the inner tub 30 captured by the camera 100, and may reduce the rotation speed of the motor 50 based on the recognized arrangement of the clothes. Therefore, the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20 may be prevented from vibrating due to water accumulated in the waterproof clothes. In addition, damage to the washing machine 1 caused by the vibration of the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20 may be prevented.

[0222] Furthermore, the method for identifying whether the clothing includes waterproof clothing is not limited to using the camera 100 .

[0223] For example, the washing machine can identify whether the clothes include waterproof clothes through an infrared sensor. The infrared sensor can emit infrared rays toward the center of the bottom of the inner tub (the center of the pulsator). The infrared sensor can receive infrared rays reflected by the bottom of the inner tub or the waterproof clothes, and identify whether the object reflecting the infrared rays is the bottom of the inner tub or the waterproof clothes. When the object is identified as waterproof clothes, the washing machine can limit the speed of the motor during the spin-drying cycle.

[0224] Alternatively, the washing machine may identify whether the laundry includes waterproof clothing through an ultrasonic sensor or a radar sensor.

[0225] Fig.17 A spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. Fig.18 An internal image of an inner drum of a washing machine in which general laundry is placed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Fig.19 An internal image of an inner drum of a washing machine in which waterproof clothes are placed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0226] Washing machine 1 can perform Fig.17 The spin drying operation (1200) shown. Figures 17 to 19 The spin drying operation (1200) is described.

[0227] The washing machine 1 rotates the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the first rotation speed RS1 for spin drying (1210). Thereafter, the washing machine 1 captures an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 (1220).

[0228] The controller 170 may control the camera 100 to capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 , and receive image data of the image of the inner tub 30 from the camera 100 .

[0229] Operations 1210 and 1220 may be performed with Fig. 9 Operations 1110 and 1120 are shown to be the same, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0230] The washing machine 1 identifies whether the internal image of the inner tub 30 includes a predetermined image (1230).

[0231] The controller 170 may control the camera 100 to capture an image of the inner tub 30 and process image data received from the camera 100. In addition, the controller 170 may identify whether the captured image of the inner tub 30 includes a predetermined image based on the processing of the image data. The predetermined image may include an image of the pulsator 40.

[0232] The controller 170 may set a region of interest (ROI) in the internal image of the inner tub 30 .

[0233] As described above, after the inner tub 30 rotates at the first rotation speed RS1, general clothes may be arranged along the inner wall of the inner tub 30. On the other hand, after the inner tub 30 rotates at the first rotation speed RS1, waterproof clothes may be widely spread at the bottom of the inner tub 30. Therefore, the central portion of the internal image of the inner tub 30 in which the waterproof clothes are accommodated may be different from the central portion of the internal image of the inner tub 30 in which the general clothes are accommodated. Therefore, the controller 170 may set the area of ​​the central portion of the inner tub 30 in the internal image of the inner tub 30 as the ROI.

[0234] The controller 170 may identify whether the clothes accommodated in the inner tub 30 include waterproof clothes based on image processing of the ROI.

[0235] When waterproof clothing is not contained in the inner tub 30, centrifugal force due to the rotation of the inner tub 30 may be applied to the clothing, and the clothing may be arranged along the inner wall of the inner tub 30. Therefore, the pulsator 40 may be exposed at the central portion of the inner tub 30. When the ROI is set to the central portion of the inner tub 30, the image of the ROI may include the image of the pulsator 40, such as Fig.18 shown.

[0236] The controller 170 may compare the image of the ROI with the image of the pulsator 40 , and when the image of the ROI is identical to or similar to the image of the pulsator 40 , the controller 170 may recognize that the waterproof clothing is not accommodated in the inner tub 30 .

[0237] On the other hand, when the waterproof clothes are accommodated in the inner tub 30, the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the inner tub 30 may be applied to the waterproof clothes in different directions. Fig.18 In particular, the waterproof clothing in the central part of the inner tub 30 can be relatively compactly unfolded. Therefore, the pulsator 40 is covered by the waterproof clothing. When the central part of the inner tub 30 is set as the ROI, the image of the ROI may not include the image of the pulsator 40, such as Fig.19 shown.

[0238] The controller 170 may compare the image of the ROI with the image of the pulsator 40 , and when the image of the ROI is different from the image of the pulsator 40 , the controller 170 may recognize that waterproof clothing is accommodated in the inner tub 30 .

[0239] When the internal image of the inner tub 30 includes the predetermined image (Yes in 1230), the washing machine 1 rotates the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the second rotation speed RS2 (1240).

[0240] When the image of the inside of the inner tub 30 includes the image of the pulsator 40, the controller 170 may recognize that the clothes contained in the inner tub 30 are general clothes. In other words, the controller 170 may recognize that the clothes contained in the inner tub 30 do not include waterproof clothes.

[0241] Therefore, the controller 170 can control the motor 50 according to a general spin-drying cycle. The controller 170 can control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at a second speed. The second speed may be about 950 rpm.

[0242] Operation 1240 can be performed with Fig. 9 The operation 1140 shown is the same and its detailed description will be omitted.

[0243] When the internal image of the inner tub 30 does not include the predetermined image (No in 1230), the washing machine 1 rotates the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the third rotation speed RS3 (1250).

[0244] When the internal image of the inner tub 30 does not include the image of the pulsator 40, the controller 170 may recognize that the clothes contained in the inner tub 30 include waterproof clothes. In other words, when the arrangement of the clothes is substantially circular, the controller 170 may recognize that the clothes contained in the inner tub 30 include waterproof clothes.

[0245] The controller 170 may control the motor 50 according to a spin cycle in which the rotation speed of the inner tub 30 for spin drying is reduced. The controller 170 may control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at a third rotation speed less than the second rotation speed. The third rotation speed may be about 450 rpm.

[0246] Operation 1250 can be used with Fig. 9 The operation 1150 shown is the same and its description will be omitted.

[0247] As mentioned above, the washing machine 1 can extract the image of the ROI from the internal image of the inner tub 30 captured by the camera 100, and reduce the rotation speed of the motor 50 based on the comparison result between the image of the ROI and the image of the pulsator 40. Therefore, the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20 can be prevented from vibrating due to the water accumulated in the waterproof clothing. In addition, the amount of calculation for identifying the waterproof clothing can be reduced.

[0248] Furthermore, the method for identifying whether the clothes include waterproof clothes is not limited to comparing the image of the ROI with the image of the pulsator 40 .

[0249] For example, the controller 170 may identify whether the clothes accommodated in the inner tub 30 include waterproof clothes based on processing of the image of the ROI.

[0250] Among waterproof clothes, a typical piece of clothing that may cause damage to the washing machine 1 may be a bed cover. The waterproof bed cover is larger in size than other waterproof clothes, and thus the waterproof bed cover may collect a large amount of water and cause more imbalance.

[0251] The bedspread generally has a white color and generally has no pattern on the surface. Therefore, the brightness values ​​of a plurality of pixels included in the white bedspread image may have relatively large values.

[0252] The controller 170 may set a central portion of the captured image of the interior of the inner tub 30 as the ROI, and identify whether waterproof clothing is accommodated in the inner tub 30 based on brightness values ​​of the plurality of pixels included in the image of the ROI.

[0253] For example, when the average value of the brightness values ​​of the multiple pixels included in the image of the ROI is less than a reference value, the controller 170 can recognize that the waterproof clothes are not contained in the inner barrel 30 and increase the speed of the motor to a second speed (e.g., 950rpm) during spin drying.

[0254] On the other hand, when the average value of the brightness values ​​of the multiple pixels included in the image of the ROI is greater than the reference value, the controller 170 can recognize that waterproof clothing is contained in the inner tub 30 and limit the speed of the motor to a third speed (e.g., 450 rpm) during spin drying.

[0255] Fig. 20 A spin-drying operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0256] Washing machine 1 can perform Fig. 20 The spin drying operation (1300) shown. Fig. 20 The spin drying operation (1300) is described.

[0257] The washing machine 1 rotates the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the first rotation speed RS1 to perform spin drying (1310).

[0258] Operation 1310 may be performed with Fig. 9 The operation 1110 shown is the same and its description will be omitted.

[0259] The washing machine 1 detects vibration of the outer tub 20 ( 1320 ).

[0260] The washing machine 1 may detect vibration of the outer tub 20 using the vibration sensor 130 .

[0261] The vibration sensor 130 may be installed at the outside of the outer tub 20 , and may obtain acceleration data from vibration of the outer tub 20 .

[0262] For example, the vibration sensor 130 may transmit acceleration data to the controller 170. The controller 170 may identify the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 based on the acceleration data received from the vibration sensor 130. The controller 170 may obtain acceleration information caused by the vibration of the outer tub 20 from the received acceleration data, and calculate the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 by integrating the acceleration of the outer tub 20 twice with respect to time.

[0263] Alternatively, the vibration sensor 130 may identify the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 based on the acceleration data. The vibration sensor 130 may calculate the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 by integrating the acceleration of the outer tub 20 twice with respect to time. The vibration sensor 130 may transmit information about the amplitude of the outer tub 20 to the controller 170.

[0264] The washing machine 1 identifies whether the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 is greater than a reference amplitude (1330).

[0265] The controller 170 may calculate the amplitude of the outer tub 20 based on the acceleration data received from the vibration sensor 130 , or obtain the amplitude of the outer tub 20 from the vibration sensor 130 .

[0266] The controller 170 may compare the amplitude of the vibration of the outer tub 20 with a reference amplitude, and identify whether the amplitude of the vibration of the outer tub 20 is greater than the reference amplitude.

[0267] The controller 170 may identify whether the clothes accommodated in the inner tub 30 include waterproof clothes based on whether the amplitude of the vibration of the outer tub 20 is greater than the reference amplitude.

[0268] When the clothes contained in the inner tub 30 do not include waterproof clothes, the clothes can be arranged along the inner wall of the inner tub 30, and the imbalance of the inner tub 30 can be reduced during the rotation of the inner tub 30 at the first speed RS1. Therefore, the vibration of the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20 can be reduced.

[0269] On the other hand, when the clothes contained in the inner tub 30 include waterproof clothes, the waterproof clothes may collect water during drainage. In addition, during the rotation of the inner tub 30 at the first rotation speed RS1, the waterproof clothes may be spread throughout the inner tub 30, and the water collected by the waterproof clothes may cause imbalance of the inner tub 30. Therefore, the vibration of the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20 may increase significantly.

[0270] When the amplitude of the outer tub 20 is greater than the reference amplitude (Yes in 1330 ), the washing machine 1 rotates the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the third rotation speed RS3 ( 1350 ).

[0271] When the amplitude of the vibration of the outer tub 20 is greater than the reference amplitude, the controller 170 may recognize that the clothes accommodated in the inner tub 30 include waterproof clothes.

[0272] The controller 170 may control the motor 50 according to a spin cycle in which the rotation speed of the inner tub 30 for spin drying is reduced. The controller 170 may control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at a third rotation speed. The third rotation speed may be about 450 rpm.

[0273] Operation 1350 can be performed with Fig. 9 The operation 1150 shown is the same and its description will be omitted.

[0274] When the amplitude of the outer tub 20 is not greater than the reference amplitude (No in 1330 ), the washing machine 1 rotates the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at the second rotation speed RS2 ( 1340 ).

[0275] When the amplitude of the outer tub 20 is not greater than the reference amplitude, the controller 170 may recognize that the clothes accommodated in the inner tub 30 do not include waterproof clothes.

[0276] Therefore, the controller 170 can control the motor 50 according to a general spin-drying process. The controller 170 can control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 and the pulsator 40 at a second speed RS2 greater than the third speed RS3. The second speed RS2 may be about 950 rpm.

[0277] Operation 1340 may be performed with Fig. 9 The operation 1140 shown is the same and its detailed description will be omitted.

[0278] As mentioned above, the washing machine 1 may include a vibration sensor and recognize whether the waterproof clothing is accommodated in the inner tub 30 based on the output of the vibration sensor. When the washing machine 1 recognizes that the waterproof clothing is accommodated in the inner tub 30, the washing machine 1 may reduce the rotation speed of the motor 50, thereby preventing the vibration of the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20 caused by the water accumulated in the waterproof clothing.

[0279] Fig.21 It is shown that a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure communicates with an external device. Fig. 22 A control configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0280] like Fig.21 As shown, the washing machine 1 can communicate with the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300 .

[0281] The washing machine 1 may be connected to the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300 via a communication network, and the communication network may include both a wired communication network and a wireless communication network. The wired communication network includes a communication network such as a data network or a telephone network, and the wireless communication network may include a communication network that sends and receives signals via radio waves. The wired communication network and the wireless communication network may be connected to each other. The wired communication network may include a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, and the wireless communication network may include an access point (AP) connected to the wide area network (WAN).

[0282] The first server device 201 can send data and / or messages to other devices and receive data and / or messages from other devices through the communication network. For example, the first server device 201 can send data and / or messages to the washing machine 1, the user device 300 and / or the second server device 202 and receive data and / or messages from the washing machine 1, the user device 300 and / or the second server device 202 through the communication network.

[0283] The first server device 201 may store user account information of the washing machine 1 and the user device 300. The user account information may include identification information of the user, identification information of the washing machine 1, and identification information of the user device 300. The identification information of the washing machine 1 may include an Internet Protocol (IP) address and / or a Media Access Control (MAC) address of the washing machine 1.

[0284] The first server device 201 may use the user account information in conjunction with the user device 300 to control the washing machine 1. For example, the first server device 201 may receive a control message about the washing machine 1 from the user device 300 and transmit the received control message to the washing machine 1. In addition, the first server device 201 may receive a control message about the user device 300 from the washing machine 1 and transmit the received control message to the user device 300.

[0285] The first server device 201 may receive image data and an image processing message from the washing machine 1 and / or the user device 300 , process the image data in response to the image processing message, and transmit the processed image data to the washing machine 1 and / or the user device 300 .

[0286] For example, the first server device 201 may receive a message for identifying the arrangement of the laundry together with the reference image of the inner tub 30 and the captured image of the inner tub 30 from the washing machine 1. The first server device 201 may identify whether the arrangement of the laundry is a ring based on a difference image between the reference image of the inner tub 30 and the captured image of the inner tub 30. Thereafter, the first server device 201 may send a message to the washing machine 1 indicating whether the arrangement of the laundry is a ring.

[0287] Alternatively, the first server device 201 may receive a message for identifying (recognizing) clothes and a captured image of the inner drum 30 from the washing machine 1. The first server device 201 may send a message for identifying clothes and the image of the inner drum 30 received from the washing machine 1 to the second server device 202. The second server device 202 may identify (recognize) clothes contained in the internal image in response to the message of the first server device 201, and send identification information to the first server device 201. The first server device 201 may send the identification information received from the second server device 202 to the washing machine 1.

[0288] The second server device 202 may include an object recognition device configured to recognize an object from an image. For example, the second server device 202 may include an object recognition device configured to use machine learning to recognize an object included in an image.

[0289] The second server device 202 may receive an image of the inner tub 30 from the image and recognize an object included in the image of the inner tub 30. For example, through machine learning, the second server device 202 may recognize whether the clothes included in the image of the inner tub 30 are waterproof clothes.

[0290] The second server device 202 may include an object recognition engine for recognizing objects from images, and training data for training the object recognition engine.

[0291] The object recognition engine can use trained learning or untrained learning to recognize objects from images. For example, the object recognition engine can recognize clothing contained in an internal image through pre-training or post-training, and output information about the clothing, such as the name of the recognized clothing.

[0292] The object recognition engine may include various learning algorithms for object recognition with the aid of images. For example, the object recognition engine 231 may include a neural network algorithm, a support vector machine (SVM) algorithm, an AdaBoost algorithm, and a random forest algorithm. The object recognition engine may be pre-trained by training data.

[0293] Each of the first server device 201 and the second server device 202 may be referred to as various names, such as a server, a client, a workstation, a personal computer, a cloud, a data drive, or a data station.

[0294] The user device 300 can process data received from another device through a communication network and display the processed data to the user. The user device 300 can be carried by the user, or can be set in the user's home or office, and the user can easily access the user device 300. The user device 300 can be called a workstation, a personal computer, a terminal, a portable phone, a smart phone, a handheld device, or a wearable device.

[0295] The user device 300 may receive a message from the washing machine 1 and / or the first server device 201, display an image corresponding to the received message, or output a sound corresponding to the received message.

[0296] In order to communicate with the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300, the washing machine 1 includes a user input device 110, a display 120, a vibration sensor 130, a camera 100, a driver 140, a water supplier 150, a drainer 160, a controller 170, and a communication circuit 180, as shown in FIG. Fig. 22 shown.

[0297] The user input device 110, the display device 120, the vibration sensor 130, the camera 100, the driver 140, the water supplier 150, the drainer 160, and the controller 170 may be connected to the reference Figure 7 Those described are the same, so their description will be omitted.

[0298] The communication circuit 180 may exchange data with the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300. For example, the communication circuit 180 may transmit an internal image of the inner tub 30 captured by the camera 100 to the first server device 201, and receive information about the clothes included in the image of the inner tub 30 from the first server device 201.

[0299] The communication circuit 180 may be connected to a wired communication network and communicate with the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300 through the wired communication network. For example, the communication circuit 180 may be connected to the wired communication network through Ethernet (IEEE 802.3 standard) and receive data from the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300 through the wired communication network.

[0300] The communication circuit 180 can communicate wirelessly with a base station or access point (AP) and can be connected to a wired communication network through the base station or access point. The communication circuit 180 can also communicate with the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300 connected to the wired communication network through the base station or access point.

[0301] For example, the communication circuit 180 may use WiFi TM The communication circuit 180 may also receive data from the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300 via a base station or access point using wireless communication with an access point (AP) (IEEE 802.11 standard) or a base station using CDMA, WCDMA, GSM, Long Term Evolution (LTE) and WiBro.

[0302] The communication circuit 180 includes a transmitter 181 configured to transmit data to the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300 , and a receiver 182 configured to receive data from the first server device 201 and / or the user device 300 .

[0303] Fig.23 It is shown that a washing process of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is selected.

[0304] Washing machine 1 can perform Fig.23 The washing process selection (1400) shown. Fig.23 Describes wash process selection (1400).

[0305] The washing machine 1 captures an image of the interior of the inner tub 30 ( 1410 ).

[0306] The controller 170 may control the camera 100 to capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 , and receive image data of the image of the inner tub 30 from the camera 100 .

[0307] Operation 1410 may be performed with Fig. 9 The illustrated operation 1120 is the same, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0308] The washing machine 1 transmits the captured internal image of the inner tub 30 to the first server device 201 (1420).

[0309] The controller 170 may control the communication circuit 180 to transmit image data of an internal image of the inner tub 30 (hereinafter referred to as “image of the inner tub”) to the first server device 201. The communication circuit 180 may transmit the image of the inner tub 30 and a message for identifying the laundry contained in the image of the inner tub 30 through a wired communication network and / or a wireless communication network in response to a control signal from the controller 170.

[0310] The first server device 201 may receive image data of the image of the inner tub 30 and a message for identifying clothes from the washing machine 1, and transmit the image data of the image of the inner tub 30 to the second server device 202 in response to the message of the washing machine 1. The second server device 202 may identify (recognize) the clothes included in the image of the inner tub 30 by using machine learning in response to the message of the first server device 201.

[0311] The washing machine 1 receives the image processing result (identification information of the laundry included in the image of the inner tub) from the first server device 201 (1430).

[0312] The second server device 202 may transmit identification information about the laundry included in the image of the inner tub 50 to the first server device 201. The first server device 201 may transmit the identification information received from the second server device 202 to the washing machine 1.

[0313] The controller 170 may receive identification information of the laundry included in the image of the inner tub 30 from the first server device 201 through the communication circuit 180 .

[0314] The washing machine 1 selects a washing course based on the received image processing result (identification information of the laundry included in the image of the inner tub) (1440).

[0315] The controller 170 may select a washing course based on the identification information of the laundry received from the first server device 201. For example, when the identified laundry includes a blanket, the controller 170 may select a washing course for washing the blanket.

[0316] When the identified clothes include waterproof clothes, the controller 170 may set the rotation speed of the motor 50 for spin-drying to a third rotation speed RS3 that is lower than the second rotation speed RS2.

[0317] As mentioned above, the washing machine 1 can use the machine learning of the server device to identify the clothes and select a washing process suitable for the identified clothes. In particular, the washing machine 1 can identify waterproof clothes by using machine learning, and in response to the identification of waterproof clothes, the washing machine 1 can reduce the rotation speed of the inner drum 30 during spin drying.

[0318] Therefore, the washing machine 1 can accurately identify the clothes and can use the optimal washing process to wash the clothes. In addition, the washing machine 1 can accurately identify whether the clothes include waterproof clothes, and during the spin-drying, the washing machine 1 can reduce the rotation speed of the inner tub 30 for the waterproof clothes.

[0319] Fig.24 A warning operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0320] Washing machine 1 can perform Fig.24 The warning action (1500) shown. Fig.24 The warning action (1500) of the washing machine 1 is described.

[0321] The washing machine 1 captures an image of the interior of the inner tub 30 ( 1510 ).

[0322] The controller 170 may control the camera 100 to capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 , and receive image data of the image of the inner tub 30 from the camera 100 .

[0323] Operation 1510 may be performed with Fig. 9The illustrated operation 1120 is the same, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0324] The washing machine 1 processes the captured image of the interior of the inner tub 30 (hereinafter referred to as an 'image of the inner tub') (1520).

[0325] The controller 170 may directly process the image of the inner barrel 30, or may use machine learning of the second server device 202 to process the image of the inner barrel 30. For example, Fig.23 As described above, the controller 170 may control the communication circuit 180 to transmit image data of the image of the inner tub 30 and a message for identifying the inside of the inner tub 30 to the first server device 201. The controller 170 may receive identification information of an object located in the inner tub 30 from the first server device 201.

[0326] Before starting washing, the washing machine 1 identifies whether a person or an animal is detected in the inner tub 30 (1530).

[0327] Before starting washing, the controller 170 may identify whether the object identified from the image of the inner tub 30 includes a person or an animal. During the period when the door 15 is opened before washing, a baby or a companion animal may enter the inner tub 30 of the washing machine 1. The controller 170 may control the camera 100 to capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 before the operation of the washing machine 1, and identify whether a person or an animal is detected in the inner tub 30 based on the captured image of the inner tub 30.

[0328] When a person or an animal is not detected (No in 1530 ), the washing machine 1 identifies whether bubbles of the inner tub 30 overflow from the inner tub 30 during washing ( 1540 ).

[0329] The controller 170 can identify whether the foam of the inner tub 30 overflows the inner tub 30 during washing based on the image of the inner tub 30. Some detergents generate a large amount of foam, so the foam generated in the inner tub 30 may overflow the inner tub 30 during washing. When the foam overflows the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20, the foam may reach various electrical components (e.g., a motor drive circuit) provided between the cabinet 10 and the outer tub 20. Therefore, it may cause malfunction of the electrical components of the washing machine 1. In order to prevent this, the controller 170 can identify whether the foam overflows the inner tub 30 based on the processing of the image of the inner tub 30.

[0330] When the bubbles do not overflow the inner tub 30 (No in 1540 ), the washing machine 1 identifies whether the laundry of the inner tub 30 overflows the inner tub 30 during washing ( 1550 ).

[0331] The controller 170 can identify whether the clothes overflow the inner tub 30 during washing based on the image of the inner tub 30. Clothes (e.g., waterproof clothes) may gather air before washing starts, and therefore, the clothes may float in the water due to buoyancy. When the inner tub 30 rotates before the clothes are fully soaked by water, the clothes may overflow the inner tub 30. When the clothes overflow the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20, the clothes may interfere with the rotation of the inner tub 30 between the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20. Therefore, the load of the motor 50 may increase, and the motor 50 may be damaged. In order to prevent this, the controller 170 can identify whether the clothes overflow the inner tub 30 based on the processing of the image of the inner tub 30.

[0332] When the laundry does not overflow the inner tub 30 (No in 1550), the washing machine 1 identifies whether the white laundry is mixed with the colored laundry (1560).

[0333] Before starting washing, the controller 170 may identify whether the objects identified from the image of the inner tub 30 include white clothing and colored clothing. When white clothing is washed together with colored clothing, the white clothing may be stained by the colored clothing. To prevent this, the controller 170 may identify whether white clothing is mixed with colored clothing in the inner tub 30 based on processing of the image of the inner tub 30.

[0334] When the white clothes are not mixed with the colored clothes (No in 1560), the washing machine 1 continues the washing cycle (1570).

[0335] When no person or animal is detected in the inner tub 30, when bubbles or laundry do not overflow the inner tub 30, and when white clothes are not mixed with colored clothes, the washing machine 1 may continue the washing cycle. For example, the controller may start or continue the washing cycle (1010).

[0336] When a person or animal is detected in the inner tub 30 (Yes in 1530), when foam overflows the inner tub 30 (Yes in 1540), when clothes overflow the inner tub 30 (Yes in 1550), or when white clothes are mixed with colored clothes (Yes in 1550), the washing machine 1 stops the ongoing process and outputs a user warning (1580).

[0337] When a condition that washing is not continued occurs, the controller 170 can stop the ongoing cycle. For example, when a person or animal is detected in the inner tub 30, the controller 170 may not start the water supply of the washing cycle, and when bubbles or clothes overflow the inner tub 30, the controller 170 may stop the rotation of the inner tub 30 during the washing cycle.

[0338] The controller 170 may output a user warning to notify the user of the occurrence of a situation in which washing is not continued. For example, the controller 170 may output a sound to attract the user's attention.

[0339] The controller 170 may send a message to the first server device 201 for causing the first server device 201 to send a message requesting a user warning to the user device 300. The first server device 201 may send a message for generating an alarm to the user device 300 in response to the message of the washing machine 1.

[0340] As mentioned above, when a situation occurs where washing is not continued, the washing machine 1 can stop the cycle and warn the user. Therefore, the washing machine 1 can ensure the safety of people and / or animals and prevent damage to the washing machine 1 caused by foam or clothing overflow. In addition, the washing machine 1 can prevent white clothing from being stained by colored clothing.

[0341] Fig.25 The control of the inner drum rotation of the washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0342] Washing machine 1 can perform Fig.25 The inner barrel rotation control (1600) shown. Fig.25 The inner tub rotation control (1600) of the washing machine 1 is described.

[0343] The washing machine 1 captures an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 during spin-drying (1610).

[0344] The controller 170 may control the camera 100 to capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 , and receive image data of the image of the inner tub 30 from the camera 100 .

[0345] Operation 1610 may be performed with Fig. 9 The illustrated operation 1120 is the same, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0346] The washing machine 1 processes the captured image of the interior of the inner tub 30 (hereinafter referred to as an 'image of the inner tub') (1620).

[0347] Operation 1620 can be performed with Fig.24 The illustrated operation 1520 is the same, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0348] The washing machine 1 recognizes the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 ( 1630 ).

[0349] During the spin-drying, the controller 170 can detect the movement of the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20 based on the processing of the captured image. For example, during the spin-drying, the controller 170 can identify the center of the bottom of the inner tub 30 (the center of the pulsator) based on the processing of the captured image, and identify the movement of the center of the bottom of the inner tub 30.

[0350] During the rotation of the inner tub 30 for spin-drying, the controller 170 may detect vibrations of the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20 based on the movement of the center of the bottom of the inner tub 30 , and the controller 170 may identify the vibration amplitudes of the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20 .

[0351] The washing machine 1 controls the rotation speed of the inner tub 30 based on the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 ( 1640 ).

[0352] The controller 170 may control the motor 50 to adjust the rotation speed of the inner tub 30 based on the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 .

[0353] For example, the controller 170 may compare the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 with a reference amplitude, and when the vibration amplitude of the outer tub 20 is greater than the reference amplitude, the controller 170 may control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 at a third rotation speed RS3, which may be about 450 rpm.

[0354] In addition, when the amplitude of the outer tub 20 is not greater than the reference amplitude, the controller 170 may control the motor 50 to rotate the inner tub 30 at a second rotation speed RS2 greater than the third rotation speed RS3. The second rotation speed RS2 may be about 950 rpm.

[0355] As mentioned above, the washing machine 1 can recognize the vibration of the outer tub 20 based on the internal image of the inner tub 30. When the vibration of the outer tub 20 is large, the washing machine 1 can reduce the rotation speed of the motor 50, thereby preventing damage to the washing machine 1 caused by the vibration of the inner tub 30 and the outer tub 20.

[0356] Fig.26 Transmission of an image of the inner tub 30 of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0357] Washing machine 1 can perform Fig.26 The image of the inner barrel 30 shown is transmitted (1700). Fig.26 Transmission of an image of the inner tub 30 of the washing machine 1 is described ( 1700 ).

[0358] The washing machine 1 receives a user input for transmission of an internal image of the inner tub 30 (hereinafter referred to as an 'image of the inner tub') (1710).

[0359] The user may input a user input for imaging the inside of the inner tub 30 and transmitting the captured image to the user device 300 through the user input 110. The controller 170 may obtain a user input for transmitting an image of the inner tub 30 through the user input 110.

[0360] In addition, the user may input a user input for imaging the inside of the inner tub 30 and transmit the captured image through the user device 300. The controller 170 may obtain a user input for transmitting the image of the inner tub 30 through the communication circuit 180.

[0361] The washing machine 1 captures an image of the interior of the inner tub 30 ( 1720 ).

[0362] The controller 170 may control the camera 100 to capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 , and receive image data of the image of the inner tub 30 from the camera 100 .

[0363] Operation 1720 may be performed with Fig. 9 The illustrated operation 1120 is the same, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0364] The washing machine 1 transmits the captured image of the inner tub 30 to the user device 300 in real time ( 1730 ).

[0365] The controller 170 may control the communication circuit 180 to transmit image data of the image of the inner tub 30 to the user device 300 through the first server device 201. The communication circuit 180 may transmit the image of the inner tub 30 through a wired communication network and / or a wireless communication network in response to a control signal from the controller 170.

[0366] The first server device 201 may receive image data of the image of the inner tub 30 from the washing machine 1 and transmit the image data of the image of the inner tub 30 to the user device 300. The user device 300 may display the image of the inner tub 30 based on processing of the image data of the image of the inner tub 30.

[0367] As mentioned above, the washing machine 1 may capture an image of the inside of the inner tub 30 and then transmit image data of the image of the inner tub 30 to the user device 300 in real time. The user device 300 may display the received image of the inner tub 30.

[0368] The user can check the inside of the inner tub 30 through the user device 300, and can check the washing progress of the washing machine 1. In addition, the washing machine 1 can recognize whether the clothes include waterproof clothes based on the image of the inner tub 30, and when the clothes include waterproof clothes, the washing machine 1 can limit the rotation speed of the motor 50 during spin drying through the user device 300.

[0369] The washing machine may include a cabinet provided with an opening at an upper portion thereof, an outer tub provided in the cabinet, an inner tub provided in the outer tub, a motor configured to rotate the inner tub, a camera configured to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub, and a controller configured to control the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to a first rotation speed during spin drying. The controller may control the motor to limit the rotation speed of the inner tub to a second rotation speed less than the first rotation speed based on the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera during spin drying. The controller may control the motor to rotate the inner tub at a third rotation speed, and the controller may control the camera to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub after the inner tub rotates at the third rotation speed. The third rotation speed may be equal to or less than the second rotation speed.

[0370] Therefore, the washing machine can identify the clothes contained in the inner tub based on the internal image of the inner tub, and the washing machine can control the rotation speed of the inner tub during spin drying based on the type of clothes identified. In addition, the washing machine can be prevented from being damaged by the clothes contained in the inner tub during spin drying.

[0371] The controller may identify the arrangement of the clothes contained in the inner tub based on processing of the image of the interior of the inner tub. The controller may control the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to a first rotation speed in response to the clothes being arranged in a ring shape. The controller may control the motor to limit the rotation speed of the inner tub to a second rotation speed in response to the clothes being arranged in a circle shape.

[0372] Therefore, the washing machine can distinguish waterproof clothes from clothes that are not made of waterproof materials based on the internal image of the inner tub, and the washing machine can control the rotation speed of the inner tub during spin drying based on the waterproof clothes and clothes that are not made of waterproof materials. In addition, during spin drying, the washing machine can be prevented from being damaged by the waterproof clothes contained in the inner tub.

[0373] The controller may recognize the arrangement of the laundry contained in the inner tub based on a difference image between a pre-stored image of the bottom of the inner tub and an image of the inside of the inner tub captured by the camera.

[0374] Therefore, the washing machine can more quickly and accurately distinguish between waterproof clothes and clothes that are not formed of a waterproof material.

[0375] The washing machine may further include a communication circuit configured to communicate with the server device. The controller may control the communication circuit to transmit the internal image of the inner tub to the server device, and the controller may receive information about the arrangement of the laundry contained in the inner tub from the server device through the communication circuit.

[0376] Therefore, using the artificial intelligence server, the washing machine can distinguish between waterproof clothes and clothes that are not formed of waterproof materials.

[0377] The controller may set a region of interest (ROI) at a central portion of an image of the interior of the inner tub, and the controller may control the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to a first rotation speed in response to the image of the ROI being the same as the image of the bottom of the inner tub. The controller may set a region of interest (ROI) at a central portion of an image of the interior of the inner tub, and the controller may control the motor to limit the rotation speed of the inner tub to a second rotation speed in response to the image of the ROI being different from the image of the bottom of the inner tub.

[0378] Therefore, the washing machine can more quickly and accurately distinguish between waterproof clothes and clothes that are not formed of a waterproof material.

[0379] The camera may be provided on the inner wall of the opening, the underside of the door, or the underside of the detergent dispenser.

[0380] As mentioned above, the camera can be mounted in a variety of locations that allow imaging of the interior of the inner barrel.

[0381] The controller may detect vibration of the outer tub based on an image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera, and the controller may control the motor to limit the rotation speed of the inner tub to a second rotation speed less than the first rotation speed in response to the vibration amplitude being greater than a reference amplitude.

[0382] Therefore, the washing machine can be prevented from being damaged by the vibration of the inner tub and the outer tub.

[0383] The controller may identify the type of laundry based on an image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera and select a washing course according to the type of laundry.

[0384] Therefore, the user can identify the type of clothing and may not select a washing process. In addition, by selecting a washing process suitable for clothing, washing efficiency can be improved and damage to clothing can be prevented.

[0385] The washing machine may further include a communication circuit configured to communicate with the user device through the server device, and the controller may control the communication circuit to send the image of the interior of the inner drum to the user device through the server device in response to a user input of the user device.

[0386] Therefore, the washing machine can provide the user with the washing progress while performing washing. In addition, the user can remotely check the washing progress of the washing machine.

[0387] The controller may detect a person or an animal in the inner tub based on processing of an image of the interior of the inner tub, and the controller may output a user warning in response to detecting the person or the animal in the inner tub.

[0388] Therefore, it is possible to prevent an accident in which washing is performed in a state in which a child or a companion animal is accommodated in the inner tub of the washing machine.

[0389] The controller may detect foam or laundry separated from the inner tub based on processing of an image of the interior of the inner tub, and the controller may output a user warning in response to detecting the foam or laundry separated from the inner tub.

[0390] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the electronic components from being damaged by the inner tub foam overflowing the outer tub.

[0391] The controller may detect the white clothing mixed with the colored clothing based on image processing of the image of the interior of the inner tub, and the controller may output a user warning in response to detecting the white clothing mixed with the colored clothing.

[0392] Therefore, accidents in which clothes are stained by other clothes can be prevented.

[0393] As is apparent from the above description, the washing machine can identify whether the clothes in the inner drum include waterproof clothes.

[0394] The washing machine may include a camera configured to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub, and may identify whether the laundry in the inner tub includes waterproof clothing based on image data of the image of the inner tub 30 captured by the machine.

[0395] When the laundry in the inner tub includes waterproof garments, the washing machine may reduce the rotation speed of the inner tub during the spin-drying cycle.

[0396] Although some embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made in these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present disclosure, the scope of which is defined in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising: A cabinet having an opening in an upper portion thereof; an outer barrel provided in said cabinet; an inner barrel provided in the outer barrel; a motor configured to rotate the inner barrel; a camera configured to capture an image of the interior of the inner barrel; as well as a controller configured to control the motor to perform a spin cycle and control the speed of the inner tub during the spin cycle, The controller is configured as follows: In response to the spin cycle starting, controlling the motor to increase the speed of the inner tub, In response to the rotation speed of the inner tub reaching a first rotation speed, comparing the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera with a pre-stored reference image, In response to determining that the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera is similar to the pre-stored reference image, controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to a second rotation speed, and In response to determining that the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera is not similar to the pre-stored reference image, the motor is controlled to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to a third rotation speed different from the second rotation speed.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein The controller is configured to control the camera to capture an image of the interior of the inner tub in response to the rotation speed of the inner tub reaching the first rotation speed.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein The controller is configured to recognize an arrangement of the laundry contained in the inner tub based on comparing an image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera with the pre-stored reference image.

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein The controller is further configured to control the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to the second rotation speed in response to the laundry being arranged in a ring shape.

5. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein The controller is further configured to control the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to the third rotation speed in response to the laundry being arranged in a circular shape.

6. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the pre-stored reference image includes an image of the bottom of the inner tub, wherein the controller is configured to set a region of interest ROI at a central portion of the image of the interior of the inner tub, and control the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to the second rotation speed in response to the image at the ROI being the same as the image at the bottom of the inner tub, and The controller is configured to set a region of interest (ROI) at a central portion of the image inside the inner tub, and control the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to the third rotation speed in response to the image at the ROI being different from the image at the bottom of the inner tub.

7. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the camera is provided at one of: the inner wall of the opening, an underside of a door configured to open and close the opening, and A lower side of a detergent dispenser configured to supply detergent to the inner tub.

8. A control method for a washing machine, the washing machine comprising a cabinet having an opening at an upper portion thereof, an outer tub provided in the cabinet, and an inner tub provided in the outer tub, the control method comprising: In response to the start of a spin cycle, increasing the rotation speed of the inner tub; In response to the rotation speed of the inner tub reaching a first rotation speed, comparing an image of the interior of the inner tub captured by a camera with a pre-stored reference image; In response to determining that the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera is similar to the pre-stored reference image, controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to a second rotation speed; as well as In response to determining that the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera is not similar to the pre-stored reference image, the motor is controlled to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to a third rotation speed different from the second rotation speed.

9. The control method according to claim 8, further comprising: In response to the rotation speed of the inner tub reaching the first rotation speed, the camera captures an image of the interior of the inner tub.

10. The control method according to claim 8, further comprising: Arrangement of the laundry contained in the inner tub is recognized based on comparing the image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera with the pre-stored reference image.

11. The control method according to claim 10, wherein Controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to the second rotation speed includes controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to the second rotation speed in response to the laundry being arranged in a ring shape.

12. The control method according to claim 10, wherein Controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to the third rotation speed includes controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to the third rotation speed in response to the laundry being arranged in a circular shape.

13. The control method according to claim 10, wherein Recognizing the arrangement of the clothes accommodated in the inner tub includes recognizing the arrangement of the clothes accommodated in the inner tub based on a difference between a pre-stored image of the bottom of the inner tub and an image of the interior of the inner tub captured by the camera.

14. The control method according to claim 8, wherein the pre-stored reference image comprises an image of the bottom of the inner tub, Wherein controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner barrel to the second rotation speed comprises: setting a region of interest ROI at a central portion of the image of the interior of the inner tub, and controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner tub to the second rotation speed in response to the image at the ROI being the same as the image at the bottom of the inner tub, and Controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner barrel to the third rotation speed includes: setting a region of interest ROI in the central part of the image inside the inner barrel, and controlling the motor to increase the rotation speed of the inner barrel to the third rotation speed in response to the image at the ROI being different from the image at the bottom of the inner barrel.

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