Washing machine and control method thereof

Abstract

A washing machine according to one aspect of the disclosure includes: a display unit for displaying a washing process and a first washing option group corresponding to the washing process; an input unit for receiving an option change command from a user to change at least one washing option among a plurality of washing options included in the first washing option group; a storage unit for storing the washing option group including the changed at least one washing option; and a control unit for controlling the first washing option group to be changed to a second washing option group based on the changed at least one washing option when the number of times the washing option group is stored is greater than or equal to a preset number of times.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a washing machine and a control method thereof, and in particular to a technology for automatically adjusting the washing options of a washing machine. Background Art

[0002] A washing machine is a device that performs a washing process, a rinsing process, and a dehydration process by rotating a cylindrical rotary drum containing laundry.

[0003] In the past, washing machines only performed a unified process regardless of the type of laundry, but recently used washing machines perform washing on various laundry in various washing modes. For example, a user can control the operation of the washing machine by operating a control panel provided on the washing machine, or control the washing machine to perform washing by setting a desired washing course and washing options. The washing options include washing temperature, number of rinses, dehydration intensity, etc.

[0004] In order to be able to perform the best washing course for each washing course, washing options are set by the manufacturer. However, this has limitations in satisfying the individual washing preferences of users, and there is a cumbersome problem that the user needs to change the washing options every time he uses the washing machine. Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] An aspect of the present disclosure is to be able to automatically provide washing options according to each washing course suitable for a user's washing preference.

[0007] Technical Solution

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine includes: a display unit for displaying a washing process and a first washing option group corresponding to the washing process; an input unit for receiving an option change command from a user to change at least one washing option among a plurality of washing options included in the first washing option group; a storage unit for storing a washing option group including the changed at least one washing option; and a control unit for controlling the first washing option group to be changed to a second washing option group based on the changed at least one washing option when the number of times the washing option group is stored is greater than or equal to a preset number of times.

[0009] The control unit may control the display unit to display the second washing option group corresponding to the washing course selection in response to a washing course selection by a user.

[0010] The control unit may control the storage unit to store the changed washing option when starting the operation of the washing machine based on the changed washing option.

[0011] When the operation of the washing machine is completed based on the changed washing option, the control unit may control the storage unit to store the changed washing option.

[0012] The control unit may control the first washing option group corresponding to the washing process to be changed to a second washing option group based on the changed at least one washing option when the changed at least one washing option is continuously stored for a number of times greater than or equal to a preset number of times.

[0013] The control unit may control the display of any one of the washing options in the second washing option group as an unchanged washing option when the number of option change inputs by the user for any one of the washing options in the first washing option group is less than a preset number.

[0014] The first washing option group may include a first washing option, a second washing option, and a third washing option.

[0015] When the control unit stores multiple first washing options, multiple second washing options, and multiple third washing options in the storage unit according to the user's multiple option change inputs, the control unit can control each of the multiple first washing options, the multiple second washing options, and the multiple third washing options to be changed to a second washing option group based on washing options continuously input a number of times greater than or equal to a preset number of times.

[0016] The display unit may display a first operation time based on the weight of the laundry, and the control unit may control the first operation time to be changed to the second operation time based on the changed second washing option group.

[0017] The washing machine according to an embodiment may further include a communication unit that communicates with an external terminal, and the control unit may control the second washing option group to be displayed on the external terminal based on a user's option change input received from the external terminal.

[0018] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a control method for a washing machine includes the following steps: displaying a washing process and a first washing option group corresponding to the washing process; receiving an option change command from a user to change at least one washing option among multiple washing options included in the first washing option group; storing the washing option group including the changed at least one washing option; and when the number of storage times of the washing option group is greater than or equal to the pre-stored number, controlling the first washing option group to be changed to a second washing option group based on the changed at least one washing option.

[0019] The control method of the washing machine according to an embodiment may further include: in response to a washing course selection by a user, controlling the display unit to display the second washing option group corresponding to the washing course selection.

[0020] The storing of the second washing option group may include the step of storing the changed washing option in the storage part when the operation of the washing machine is started based on the changed washing option.

[0021] The step of storing the second washing option group may include the step of storing the changed washing option in the storage part when the operation of the washing machine is completed based on the changed washing option.

[0022] The step of controlling to change to the second washing option group may include the following steps: when the storage of the changed at least one washing option is continuous and greater than or equal to a preset number of times, controlling to change the first washing option group corresponding to the washing process to a second washing option group based on the changed at least one washing option.

[0023] The step of controlling to change to the second washing option group may include the following steps: when the user's option change input for any one of the washing options in the first washing option group is less than a preset number of times, controlling to display any one of the washing options in the second washing option group as an unchanged washing option.

[0024] The first washing option group may include a first washing option, a second washing option, and a third washing option.

[0025] The step of controlling to change to the second washing option group may include the following steps: when multiple first washing options, multiple second washing options, and multiple third washing options are stored according to multiple option change inputs of the user, controlling to change each of the multiple first washing options, the multiple second washing options, and the multiple third washing options to a second washing option group based on washing options continuously input a number of times greater than or equal to a preset number of times.

[0026] The control method of the washing machine according to an embodiment may further include: displaying a first operation time based on the weight of the laundry, and controlling the first operation time to be changed to a second operation time based on the changed second washing option group.

[0027] The control method of the washing machine according to an embodiment may further include: performing communication with an external terminal, and controlling the second washing option group to be displayed on the external terminal based on a user's option change input received from the external terminal.

[0028] Technical Effects

[0029] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, washing options according to each washing course suitable for a user's washing preference may be instantly provided, and the number of times a user operates a washing machine may be reduced.

[0030] Furthermore, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, frequently used washing options may be automatically provided even if the users are different. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0032] Figure 2 It is decomposed to show Figure 1 The washing machine shown in FIG.

[0033] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a washing machine is shown in FIG.

[0034] Figure 4 A control panel according to an embodiment is shown.

[0035] Figure 5 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 6 is a flow chart of a method for controlling a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 7 and Figure 8 Shown in Figure 6 The control panel referred to in the instructions.

[0038] Fig. 9 is used to explain in more detail Figure 6 Flow chart of the control method.

[0039] Fig.10 An example of a storage table of washing options is shown.

[0040] Fig.11 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a washing machine according to another embodiment.

[0041] Fig.12 and Fig.13 Shown in Fig.11 The mobile interface referenced in. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same structural elements. This specification does not describe all the elements of the embodiments, and will omit the general content in the technical field to which the disclosed invention belongs or the content repeated between the embodiments. The terms "part, module, component, block" used in the specification can be implemented by software or hardware. According to the embodiment, multiple "parts, modules, components, blocks" can be implemented by one constituent element, or one "part, module, component, block" can also include multiple constituent elements.

[0043] Throughout the specification, when a certain part is “connected” to another part, it includes not only a case where the part is directly connected to the other part, but also a case where the part is indirectly connected to the other part. The indirect connection includes a case where the part is connected via a wireless communication network.

[0044] Furthermore, when a certain part “includes” a certain constituent element, unless there is any special description to the contrary, it means that other constituent elements may also be included, rather than excluding other constituent elements.

[0045] Throughout the specification, when a certain component is located “on” another component, this includes not only a case where the certain component is in contact with the other component, but also a case where another component exists between the two components.

[0046] The terms "first" and "second" are used to distinguish one constituent element from another constituent element, and the constituent elements are not limited by the above terms.

[0047] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, an expression in the singular includes an expression in the plural.

[0048] In each step, identification symbols are used for ease of explanation and are not used to explain the order of the steps. Unless a specific order is clearly stated in the context, the steps may be implemented in an order different from that stated above.

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to an embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Individual views of the first washing device and the second washing device of the washing machine shown in ; Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a washing machine is shown in FIG.

[0051] Figures 1 to 3The washing machine 1 disclosed in the disclosure is a washing machine 1 in one form of implementing a washing machine and a control method thereof according to an embodiment disclosed, and there is no limitation on the type and form of the washing machine to which the technical features of the disclosed invention are applied.

[0052] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the washing machine 1 may include a front-loading first washing device 10 having a laundry inlet formed at the front and a top-loading second washing device 20 having a laundry inlet formed at the top. The second washing device 20 may be disposed above the first washing device 10.

[0053] The first washing device 10 may include a first drum 110 having a first washing space formed therein, and a first tub 120 having the first drum 110 therein and storing washing water or rinsing water to be used in a washing process or a rinsing process. The first drum 110 and the first tub 120 may be configured in a cylindrical shape with at least a portion of one side being open, and arranged with the open side facing forward.

[0054] The first washing device 10 may include a first housing 130. Specifically, the first housing 130 may include a side frame 131 forming the appearance of a side surface and a rear surface, and a bottom frame 132 forming a bottom surface.

[0055] In addition, the first washing device 10 may include a spring 151 and a damper 150, which can support the first tub 120 on the first housing 130. The damper 150 may connect the outer surface of the first tub 120 and the bottom frame 132 to support the first tub 120 from the bottom, and the spring 151 may connect the outer surface of the first tub 120 and the spring coupling portion 133 provided at the upper portion of the side frame 131 to support the first tub 120 from the upper side. The spring 151 and the damper 150 can play a role in alleviating vibration, noise and impact generated by the movement of the first tub 120.

[0056] The spring 151 and the damper 150 are not limited to the upper end of the side frame 131 and the bottom frame 132 , and one side of the first tub 120 and a portion of the first housing 130 may be connected to support the first tub 120 as needed.

[0057] The first washing device 10 may include: a first drive motor 140, which is arranged at the rear of the first tub 120 and rotates the first drum 110. A first drive shaft 141 for transmitting the power of the first drive motor 140 may be connected to the rear of the first drum 110. A plurality of first through holes 111 for the flow of washing water may be formed around the first drum 110. A plurality of lifting members 113 may be provided on the inner circumferential surface of the first drum 110 to achieve the rise and fall of the washing when the first drum 110 rotates. A first balancer 112 may be installed at the front portion of the first drum 110 so that the first drum 110 can rotate stably when rotating at high speed.

[0058] The first driving shaft 141 may be disposed between the first drum 110 and the first driving motor 140. One end of the first driving shaft 141 is connected to the rear panel of the first drum 110, and the other end of the first driving shaft 141 extends to the outside of the rear wall of the first tub 120. When the first driving motor 140 drives the first driving shaft 141, the first drum 110 connected to the first driving shaft 141 rotates around the first driving shaft 141.

[0059] A bearing housing 142 that rotatably supports the first drive shaft 141 may be provided at the rear wall of the first tub 120. The bearing housing 142 may be made of an aluminum alloy and may be inserted into the rear wall of the first tub 120 when the first tub 120 is injection molded. A bearing 143 that enables the first drive shaft 141 to rotate smoothly is provided between the bearing housing 142 and the first drive shaft 141.

[0060] The first washing device 10 may include a function of washing with high-temperature water. In order to obtain high-temperature water, a first heater 180 capable of heating the washing water or rinsing water contained in the first tub 120 may be provided on the bottom surface of the first tub 120. In addition, the first washing device 10 may further include a temperature sensor 181 for sensing the temperature of the washing water or rinsing water contained in the first tub 120.

[0061] The first washing device 10 may include: a first drain pump 170, which is arranged at the lower part of the first tub 120 and is used to discharge the water inside the first tub 120 toward the outside of the washing machine 1; a first connecting hose 171, which connects the first drain port 173 of the first tub 120 and the first drain pump 170 so that the water inside the first tub 120 can flow into the first drain pump 170; a circulation hose 174, which connects the first drain pump 170 and the first tub 120 so that the water flowing into the first drain pump 170 can circulate to the first tub 120; and a first drain hose 172, which guides the water pumped by the first drain pump 170 to the outside of the washing machine 1.

[0062] The washing machine 1 may include a front cover 40 having a first inlet 41 through which laundry may be put into a first washing space of the first washing device 10 , and a first door 160 for opening and closing the first inlet 41 may be combined with the front cover 40 .

[0063] The first door 160 may be provided to correspond to the first input port 41, and may be provided to be rotatable relative to the front cover 40. The first door 160 may include a first door frame 161, a first door cover 162, and a door glass 163.

[0064] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, although the first door frame 161 is roughly configured in an annular form, it can also be roughly configured in a rectangular shape. The first door cover 162 and the door glass 163 can be formed using a transparent material, so that the interior of the first drum 110 can be seen from the outside of the washing machine 1 even when the first door 160 closes the first inlet 41. The door glass 163 can be arranged to protrude from the first door frame 161 toward the inside of the first drum 110. With this configuration, when the first door 160 is closed, the door glass 163 can be inserted into the inner side of the first inlet 41.

[0065] In order to enable the first door 160 to rotate relative to the front cover 40, a first hinge is provided around the first inlet 41 and is coupled to a first hinge coupling portion formed on one side of the first door frame 161. A first hook 166 is provided on the other side of the first door frame 161, and a first hook receiving portion 42 corresponding to the first hook 166 is provided on the front cover 40, so that the first door 160 can keep the first inlet 41 closed.

[0066] In order to put laundry into the first washing space even when the first door 160 is closed, the first door 160 may include an auxiliary laundry inlet and an auxiliary door 164 for opening and closing the auxiliary laundry inlet. The auxiliary door 164 may be rotatably mounted to the first door cover 162.

[0067] In order to put the laundry into the washing machine 1 through the auxiliary laundry inlet of the first door 160, the laundry needs to pass through the door glass 163. For this purpose, a glass through hole is provided in the door glass 163. As an alternative, the upper part of the door glass may be recessed, and the door glass may not be arranged behind the auxiliary laundry inlet.

[0068] In order to connect the auxiliary laundry inlet of first door 160 and the glass through hole of door glass 163, first door 160 may include connection guide 165. Connection guide 165 has both ends opened and may be configured in the shape of a tube having a hollow portion.

[0069] Specifically, one end of the connecting guide 165 is connected to the auxiliary laundry inlet, and the other end is connected to the glass through hole. In the disclosed embodiment, the connecting guide 165 can be configured to be tilted downward from the front to the rear. That is, one end of the connecting guide 165 connected to the auxiliary laundry inlet is located at a higher position than the other end. With this configuration, it is easy to put laundry into the first drum 110 through the auxiliary laundry inlet.

[0070] In the disclosed embodiment, although the auxiliary door 164 is provided on the first door 160, the invention is not limited thereto, and the first door 160 may be configured without the auxiliary laundry inlet, the auxiliary door, the connection guide, and the like.

[0071] The first washing device 10 may include a diaphragm 121 disposed between the first inlet 41 of the front cover 40 and the opening of the first tub 120. The diaphragm 121 may form a passage from the first inlet 41 to the opening of the first tub 120, and may reduce vibration transmitted to the side of the front cover 40 when the first drum 110 rotates. In addition, a portion of the diaphragm 121 may be disposed between the first door 160 and the front cover 40 to prevent the wash water of the first tub 120 from leaking to the outside of the washing machine 1.

[0072] The second washing device 20 may include: a second drum 210, in which a second washing space is formed; and a second tub 220, in which the second drum 210 is housed and washing water or rinsing water to be used in a washing process or a rinsing process is stored. The second drum 210 and the second tub 220 may be configured in a cylindrical shape with at least a portion of one side open, and arranged so that the open side faces upward.

[0073] The second washing device 20 may include a second housing 230. Specifically, the second housing 230 may include: a lower frame 231 supporting the second tub 220; and an upper frame 232 equipped with a second inlet 234 capable of inputting laundry into the second washing space and disposed on the upper portion of the lower frame 231. In addition, the second housing 230 may include a side cover 233 forming the appearance of the left and right sides.

[0074] The second washing device 20 may include a second door 260 for opening and closing the second inlet 234. The second door 260 may be configured to correspond to the second inlet 234, and may be configured to be rotatable relative to the upper frame 232. The second door 260 may include a second door frame 261 and a second door cover 262. The second door cover 262 may be formed using a transparent material, so that even in a state where the second door 260 closes the second inlet 234, the second tub 220 and the second drum 210 can be seen from the outside of the washing machine 1.

[0075] In order to enable the second door 260 to rotate relative to the upper frame 232, second hinges are provided on the left and right sides of the second door frame 261, and are coupled to the second hinge coupling portion formed around the second inlet. A latch receiving portion 263 is provided on the front side of the second door frame 261, and a latch device corresponding to the latch receiving portion 263 of the second door frame 261 is provided on the upper frame 232, so that the second door 260 can keep the second inlet 234 closed during the operation of the second washing device 20.

[0076] The second drum 210 may be configured in a cylindrical shape with an upper side open, and may be arranged in a manner that can rotate inside the second tub 220. A plurality of second through holes 211 for the flow of wash water may be formed on the side and bottom of the second drum 210. A second balancer 212 may be installed on the upper portion of the second drum 210 so that the second drum 210 can rotate stably when rotating at a high speed. A filter 300 configured to filter foreign matter that may be generated during washing may be attached to the inner side of the second drum 210.

[0077] A curved portion 213 for generating a water flow may be formed at the bottom surface of the second drum 210. Although not shown in the drawings, the second washing device 20 may further include a pulsator disposed inside the second drum 210 to generate a water flow.

[0078] The second tub 220 may be provided in a cylindrical shape and supported by the lower frame 231 by means of the suspension device 250. Specifically, the second tub 220 may be supported by being suspended from the lower frame 231 by means of four suspension devices 250. A third inlet 214 may be provided on the upper side of the second tub 220 corresponding to the second inlet 234, and a third door 280 for opening and closing the third inlet 214 may be combined.

[0079] The third door 280 may include a third door frame 281 and a third door cover 282. The third door cover 282 may be formed of a transparent material so that the interior of the second drum 210 can be seen from the outside of the second tub 220 when the third door 280 closes the third inlet 214.

[0080] In order to enable the third door 280 to rotate relative to the second barrel 220, a third hinge is provided around the third inlet 214, and is coupled to a third hinge coupling portion formed on one side of the third door frame 281. A handle 283 capable of opening the third door 280 may be provided on the other side of the third door frame 281, and a second hook 284 may be provided at the handle. A second hook receiving portion corresponding to the second hook 284 is provided on the second barrel 220, so that the third door 280 can be kept in a state of closing the third inlet 214. When the handle 283 is pulled, the second hook 284 is disengaged from the second hook receiving portion, so that the third door 280 can be opened.

[0081] The second washing device 20 may include a second driving motor disposed outside the lower side of the second tub 220 and rotating the second drum 210. A second driving shaft 241 for transmitting the power of the second driving motor 240 may be connected to the bottom surface of the second drum 210. One end of the second driving shaft 241 is connected to the bottom plate of the second drum 210, and the other end of the second driving shaft 241 extends to the outer side of the lower side wall of the second tub 220. When the second driving motor 240 drives the second driving shaft 241, the second drum 210 connected to the second driving shaft 241 rotates around the second driving shaft 241.

[0082] Although not shown in the drawings, when a pulsator is arranged on the bottom surface of the second drum 210, the second washing device 20 may further include a power switching device to be able to simultaneously or selectively transmit the driving force generated by the second driving motor 240 to the second drum 210 and the pulsator.

[0083] The second washing device 20 may include a function of washing with high-temperature water. In order to obtain high-temperature water, a second heater 290 capable of heating washing water or rinsing water contained in the second tub 220 may be arranged on the bottom surface of the second tub 220 .

[0084] The second drain pump 270 for draining the water inside the second tub 220 to the outside of the washing machine 1 may be arranged at the first washing device 10. Specifically, the first washing device 10 may include: the second drain pump 270 arranged at the upper portion of the first housing 130; and a second drain hose 272 for guiding the water pumped by the second drain pump 270 to the outside of the washing machine 1.

[0085] A second drain port 273 for draining water from the second tub 220 may be formed at the bottom of the second tub 220 . To allow the water from the second tub 220 to flow into the second drain pump 270 , the second drain port 273 and the second drain pump 270 may be connected via a second connecting hose 271 .

[0086] The second washing device 20 may include: a second tub 220; and a water supply device 400 capable of supplying washing water to the first tub 120 of the first washing device 10. The water supply device 400 may be arranged at the second housing 230. Specifically, the water supply device 400 may be arranged at the upper frame 232, preferably, may be arranged behind the second inlet 234.

[0087] In addition, the second washing device 20 may include a detergent supply device 500 capable of supplying detergent to the first washing device 10. The detergent supply device 500 may be disposed at the second housing 230. Specifically, the detergent supply device 500 may be disposed at the upper frame 232, preferably, may be disposed in front of the second inlet 234.

[0088] The washing machine 1 may include a control panel disposed on the upper portion of the front cover 40 and used to operate the first washing device 10 and the second washing device 20, and the control panel 50 may include an input unit 51 for receiving an operation command of the washing machine 1 from a user; and a display unit 52 for displaying operation information of the washing machine 1. At this time, the input unit 51 and the display unit 52 may also be implemented by a touch screen.

[0089] In the following, for the sake of convenience, the description is given assuming that the control panel 50 is implemented as a touch screen.

[0090] Figure 4 A control panel according to an embodiment is shown.

[0091] Reference Figure 4 The control panel 50 may include: an input unit 51 for receiving a control command of the washing machine 1; and a display unit 52 for displaying operation information and various information of the washing machine 1.

[0092] The control panel 50 may display a power icon 51p for controlling the on / off of the power of the washing machine 1. By touching the power icon 51p, the control panel 50 may receive a power turn-on command. When the power turn-on command is input by touching the power icon 51p, power may be supplied to the washing machine 1, and the result is as follows: Figure 4 As shown, the control panel 50 can display a variety of selectable objects.

[0093] The control panel 50 may be provided with an input portion 51 a in the form of a jog dial for receiving a washing mode search and selection command of the washing machine 1 .

[0094] Operation start icons 51sT and 51sB for receiving a control command for starting or stopping the operation of the washing machine 1 may be displayed on the control panel 50. In addition, the display unit 52 may include a display window 52a for displaying information related to the washing mode and operation status of the washing machine 1, and may display a washing temperature icon 52b indicating the washing temperature, a rinse number icon 52c indicating the rinse number, a dehydration intensity icon 52d indicating the dehydration intensity, and an additional function icon 52e indicating the additional functions of the washing machine 1.

[0095] The control panel 50 may display an upper washing device selection icon 51T for receiving a command or an operating state for selecting the second washing device 20 and a lower washing device selection icon 51B for receiving a command or an operating state for selecting the first washing device 10. In addition, the control panel 50 may display an upper washing device operation start icon 51sT for receiving a control command for starting or stopping the operation of the second washing device 20 and a lower washing device operation start icon 51sB for receiving a control command for starting or stopping the operation of the first washing device 10.

[0096] In the display window 52a of the washing machine 1, a washing option group corresponding to the washing mode may be displayed. The washing option group may include: a first washing option, displaying the washing temperature; a second washing option, displaying the number of rinses; and a third washing option, displaying the dehydration intensity. However, the order of displaying the washing options may be changed, and it is obvious that other additional functions other than the aforementioned washing options may be used instead or added.

[0097] For example, the display window 52a of the current washing machine 1 can display the washing mode as the "standard washing" mode, as the first washing option, the washing temperature can be displayed as 30°C, as the second washing option, the number of rinses can be displayed as 4 times, and as the third washing option, the dehydration intensity can be displayed as 5 levels (not shown).

[0098] Figure 5 1 is a control block diagram of a washing machine 1 according to an embodiment. However, this is only a preferred embodiment for achieving the purpose of the present disclosure, and it is obvious that a part of the configuration may be added or deleted as needed.

[0099] Reference Figure 5 According to one embodiment, a washing machine 1 may include: a control panel 50 that performs input and output related to the operation of the washing machine 1; a control unit 600 that controls various components related to the operation of the washing machine 1; a communication unit 700 that communicates with an external terminal 2 connected to the washing machine 1 in a wired or wireless manner; and a storage unit 800 that stores data related to the operation and control of the washing machine 1.

[0100] The control panel 50 may include an input part 51 for receiving an operation command of the washing machine 1 from a user, and a display part 52 for displaying operation information of the washing machine 1 .

[0101] The control part 600 may control the operation of the washing machine 1 , and may display information related to the operation of the washing machine 1 on the display part 52 through control.

[0102] The communication unit 700 can transmit and receive operation information of the washing machine 1 and the external terminal 2 by performing communication with the external terminal 2 connected to the washing machine 1. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a smartphone is illustrated as an example of the external terminal 2, but the type and form of the external terminal 2 are not limited.

[0103] In addition, the communication part 700 may be connected to a server through a network, and download or upload a control program or control data related to the operation of the washing machine 1 from or to the server.

[0104] The communication unit 700 can be implemented by a communication chip, an antenna, and related components to access at least one of a wired communication network and a wireless communication network. That is, the communication unit 700 can be implemented by various communication modules that can perform short-range or long-range communication with the external terminal 2. That is, the communication unit 700 can include a wired communication module that transmits and receives data with the external terminal 2 in a wired manner and a wireless communication module that transmits and receives data with the external terminal 2 in a wireless manner.

[0105] The storage unit 800 may store a control program and control data for controlling the washing machine 1, or may store a control command input by a user, etc. The storage unit 800 may include a volatile memory (not shown) such as a static random access memory (S-RAM) and a dynamic random access memory (D-RAM), and a non-volatile memory (not shown) such as a flash memory, a read only memory (Read Only Memory), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), and an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM).

[0106] Figure 6 is a flow chart of a control method of a washing machine 1 according to an embodiment, Figure 7 and Figure 8 Shown in Figure 6However, this is only a preferred embodiment for achieving the purpose of the present disclosure, and some steps can obviously be added or deleted as needed.

[0107] The control unit 600 may control the display unit 52 to display the washing course and the first washing option group (6001). Specifically, the control unit 600 may control the display unit 52 to display the first washing option group pre-stored for each washing course in response to the user's washing course selection.

[0108] Reference Figure 7 , with respect to the display unit 52, the washing mode is the "standard washing" mode, and as the first washing option group, the washing temperature of the first washing option is displayed as 40°C, the number of rinses of the second washing option is displayed as 4 times, and the dehydration intensity of the third washing option is displayed as level 3. In the above example, the washing process is described as the standard washing, but it can also be applied to other washing processes (for example, small amount / fast, super strong washing, super economical washing, etc.).

[0109] The control unit 600 receives an option change input from the user (6002). The user can change at least one washing option in the displayed first washing option group to perform washing that suits his or her washing preference. For example, the user can change the washing temperature from the existing 40°C to 50°C, or change the number of rinses from the existing 4 times to 3 times, thereby setting a washing option that suits the user's washing preference.

[0110] When receiving the user's option change input, the operation start or operation completion of the washing machine 1 based on the washing option change is sensed (6003). When the operation start or operation completion is sensed, the washing option group including the washing option changed by the user's option change input is stored (6004).

[0111] As described above, the storage of the washing option group may be performed on the condition that the operation of the washing machine 1 starts, or on the condition that the operation of the washing machine 1 is completed. The control unit 600 may perform the storage of the washing option group on the condition that the operation of the washing machine 1 is completed to cope with the situation where the user cancels washing during the operation of the washing machine.

[0112] The control unit 600 determines whether the number of times the washing option group is stored is greater than or equal to a preset number of times due to satisfying any one of the aforementioned conditions for storing the washing option group (6005).

[0113] When the number of stored times is less than the preset number of times, in order to accumulate more data, the control unit 600 returns to step 6002 to collect the washing option group based on the user's option change input.

[0114] When the number of stored times is greater than or equal to the preset number of times, the control unit 600 analyzes the storage table to determine the washing option value that is used most by the user in each washing option group. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 This is explained in detail below.

[0115] The control unit 600 controls the first washing option group to be changed to the second washing option group based on the input of the user's option change (6006). The first washing option group refers to the pre-stored washing option values ​​for each washing process, and the second washing option group refers to the pre-stored washing option values ​​of each washing process that are newly generated based on the washing option values ​​that have been changed by the user multiple times. Therefore, the second washing option group may be a washing option group in which all washing option values ​​are changed, and may be a washing option group in which at least one washing option is changed to a value different from the existing setting.

[0116] When the first washing option group is changed to the second washing option group in step 6006, the control unit 600 displays the selected washing course and the second washing option group corresponding to the washing course on the display unit 52 in response to the user's input of selecting a washing course (6007).

[0117] Figure 7 shows the state of the control panel 50 corresponding to step 6001, Figure 8 The state of the control panel 50 reflecting the changed washing options as a result of executing the aforementioned steps 6002 to 6006 is shown. Specifically, Figure 7 The dehydration intensity in the washing option group is 3 levels, which represents the existing setting value, and Figure 8 The dehydration intensity in the washing option group is changed from level 3 to level 4 based on multiple option change inputs by the user.

[0118] In addition, the control unit 600 can display the desired operation time of the washing machine 1 on the display unit 52 based on the sensing of the weight of the laundry. However, the operation time can be changed according to the changed washing options. Therefore, the control unit 600 can change the desired operation time based on the changed washing options and display it. According to one embodiment, the display unit 52 can display the first operation time based on the weight of the laundry, and can control to change to the second operation time based on the changed second washing option group. Therefore, compared with the operation time that only considers the weight, the user can get a more accurate operation time.

[0119] Reference Fig. 9 , further details the changing condition process of the washing option group. Fig. 9 is used to explain in more detail Figure 6Flow chart of the control method, Fig.10 An example of a storage table of washing options is shown below. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Describes the conditions for changing the washing option group.

[0120] In this embodiment, the first washing option may be the washing temperature, the second washing option may be the number of rinses, and the third washing option may be the dehydration intensity. However, the content and order of the washing options are only examples, and the washing options may also be other washing options, and may obviously be stored in other orders. In addition, a washing option group refers to a combination of the first to third washing options used by the user at the start or end of the operation of the washing machine 1.

[0121] The control part 600 may store a plurality of first washing options, a plurality of second washing options, and a plurality of third washing options in the storage part 800 (9001).

[0122] For example, Fig.10 As shown, the storage unit 800 can store a total of five values ​​of washing temperature, number of rinsing times, and dehydration intensity. However, according to the setting, the storage unit 800 can store less than or more than five values ​​of the washing option group.

[0123] The control unit 600 can determine the washing options that are continuously input a number of times greater than or equal to a preset number of times in each of the multiple first washing options, the multiple second washing options, and the multiple third washing options (9002), and determine whether any washing option is greater than or equal to the preset number of times (9003).

[0124] According to the judgment result in step 9003, the control unit 600 can reflect the washing options judged to be greater than or equal to the pre-set number of times to the second washing option group (9004), and keep the washing options judged to be less than the pre-set number of times displayed in the first washing option group (9005).

[0125] Refer again Fig.10 , the number of rinses as the second washing option is stored three times in five times as 4 times, and the dehydration intensity as the third washing option is stored three times in five times as 4 levels. In this case, the control unit 600 can generate the second washing option group based on the washing option values ​​stored three times or more.

[0126] For example, when the number of rinses of the existing standard washing is set to a value other than 4, the control unit 600 can change it to 4 times stored three times in a row, and when the dehydration intensity is set to a value other than 4 levels, it can change it to 4 levels stored three times in a row. In contrast, the control unit 600 can generate a second washing option group by maintaining the washing temperature that does not meet the condition of more than three consecutive times at the value of the existing set washing temperature.

[0127] The control unit 600 may generate the second washing option group based on a partial change of the washing option group, but unlike the aforementioned embodiment, the second washing option group may be generated based on the entire washing option group. In other words, when the entire washing option values ​​of the entire washing option group are stored identically or continuously for a number of times greater than or equal to a preset number of times, the control unit 600 may generate the second washing option group based on the changed entire washing option group.

[0128] However, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, since a new combination of washing option groups can be generated based on individual washing option values ​​in the washing option groups, even if the washing options are variously changed, a second washing option group closest to the user's preference can be instantly provided.

[0129] In addition, the above-mentioned change condition of the washing menu group may be based on a plurality of criteria other than the criterion of continuous storage three or more times.

[0130] According to an embodiment, the control unit 600 may exclude the continuous condition and generate the second washing option group based on the value stored more than three times in the whole. However, the condition of more than three times is only an example and can be set to a variety of times according to the setting of the manufacturer or the user.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the control unit 600 may generate the second washing option group based on the most stored values ​​for each washing option. However, in this case, in order to cope with the situation where the most stored values ​​are repeated within one washing option, the following conditions may be added. For example, referring to Fig.10 , the washing temperatures are 20°C and 30°C twice respectively, that is, the most stored values ​​are repeated, and the most recently stored washing temperature value can be preferentially applied to generate the second washing option group.

[0132] In the above, the control method based on the user's input to the washing machine 1 is described. Fig.11 A method of controlling washing machine 1 executed by external terminal 2 connected to washing machine 1 will be described.

[0133] Fig.11is a flow chart of a control method of a washing machine 1 according to another embodiment. However, this is only a preferred embodiment for achieving the purpose of the present disclosure, and it is obvious that some steps can be added or deleted as needed. In addition, Fig.12 and Fig.13 Shown in Fig.11 The mobile interface referenced in.

[0134] The control unit 600 receives the option change command of the external terminal through the communication unit that performs communication with the external terminal (1101). The external terminal may be a smart phone installed with an application capable of remotely controlling the washing machine 1. However, as mentioned above, the external terminal is not limited to a smart phone, and may be a variety of electronic devices capable of installing an application capable of controlling the washing machine 1.

[0135] like Fig.12 As shown, the user can determine the washing process through the external terminal linked to the washing machine 1, and can change the washing option values ​​of the washing temperature, the number of rinses and the dehydration intensity corresponding to the washing process. Fig.12 The washing option values ​​of washing temperature, rinsing times and dehydration intensity shown are the preset first washing option group.

[0136] The control unit 600 may control the washing machine 1 to change the first washing option group to the second washing option group based on the option change command of the external terminal (1102). The generation process of the second washing option group is referred to in Figures 6 to 10 The content of the description.

[0137] The control unit 600 sends the washing options included in the second washing option group to the external terminal (1103). The newly generated second washing option group can be displayed on the display unit 52 of the washing machine 1, or on an external terminal linked to the washing machine 1.

[0138] When sensing that the external terminal receives the washing option value changed by the option change input of the user in step 1103, the control unit 600 can control the external terminal to change from the first washing option group to the second washing option group (1104).

[0139] Fig.13 The figure shows a situation where the screen of the external terminal is changed from the first washing option group to the second washing option group. At this time, when the user selects a washing course, the external terminal can directly display the second washing option group, or when the user selects a washing course, the external terminal can display a screen that is changed from the original first washing option group to the second washing option group. Therefore, the user can confirm whether the washing option currently displayed is in a changed state.

[0140] In addition, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, a program module may be generated to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0141] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media storing computer-readable instructions, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage device, etc.

[0142] The disclosed embodiments are described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. A person skilled in the art with ordinary knowledge in the art to which the present invention belongs should understand that the present invention can be implemented in a form different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical concept or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are exemplary and should not be interpreted as limiting.

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising: Display unit; a communication unit configured to perform communication with an external terminal via a network; as well as a processor configured to control the display unit and the communication unit, Wherein, the processor is configured to: In response to a washing course being selected, controlling the display unit to display a first value set for a washing option for performing the washing course; Based on the first value being changed to a second value by a user input, executing a washing process by using the second value set for the washing option; determining whether the washing process performed by the second value set for the washing option has been completed a predetermined number of times, in response to the washing course being selected after it is determined that the washing course performed by the second value set for the washing option is completed a predetermined number of times, controlling the display unit to display the washing option set for performing the washing course as the second value; and The communication unit is controlled to transmit operation information related to the washing course to the external terminal.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: Also includes: a storage unit, configured to store a washing option group including the first value and the second value, In response to the operation of the washing machine being completed based on the second value, the processor is further configured to control the storage part to store the second value.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to receive the second value through an input of the washing machine.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to receive the second value through the external terminal.

5. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is configured to control the display section to display a desired operation time based on the second value.

6. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The operation information includes washing temperature, rinse times and dehydration intensity.

7. A washing machine, comprising: a communication unit configured to perform communication with an external terminal via a network; as well as a processor configured to control the communication unit, wherein the external terminal is configured to, in response to a washing course being selected, display a first value set for a washing option for executing the washing course; and The processor is configured to: Based on the first value being changed to a second value through the external terminal, executing a washing process by using the second value set for the washing option; determining whether the washing course performed by the second value set for the washing option has been completed a predetermined number of times; and In response to the washing process being selected after it is determined that the washing process performed by the second value set for the washing option has been completed a predetermined number of times, the communication unit is controlled to transmit operation information related to the washing process to the external terminal so that the washing option set to execute the washing process is displayed as the second value.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein: Also includes: a storage unit, configured to store a washing option group including the first value and the second value, In response to the operation of the washing machine being completed based on the second value, the processor is further configured to control the storage part to store the second value.

9. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein: The second value is received through an input portion of the washing machine or the external terminal.

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