Washing machine and control method thereof

Abstract

A washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes a display, a communication interface configured to communicate with a dryer, and a processor, wherein the processor is configured to control the display to display a user interface (UI) for overall control of the washing machine and the dryer based on receiving a first user input selecting a washing program, identify a drying program of the dryer based on a washing program selected by the first user input and a control option selected by a second user input based on receiving the second user input selecting one of a plurality of control options included in the UI, and control the communication interface to transmit information corresponding to the identified drying program to the dryer.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0089126, filed on July 17, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The apparatus and method conforming to this disclosure relates to a washing machine and a control method thereof, and more specifically, to a washing machine and a control method thereof for determining a drying program of a dryer based on a washing program received from the washing machine. Background Technology

[0004] For general control of washing machines and dryers, the washing program of the washing machine and the drying program of the dryer can be mapped on a one-to-one basis. For example, if the washing machine runs a standard washing program, the dryer can also run a standard drying program; if the washing machine runs a quick washing program, the dryer can also run a quick drying program.

[0005] However, with the washing and drying programs mapped on a one-to-one basis as described above, neither the total operation time nor the total energy consumption of washing and drying can be saved while maintaining the intended quality. For example, setting both the washing machine and dryer to quick mode might save time, but it would reduce the overall quality of washing and drying. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] This disclosure provides a washing machine and a control method thereof, which identifies a drying program among a plurality of drying programs based on a washing program selected by a user and control options thereof, and obtains a drying result based on the control options.

[0008] Technical solutions

[0009] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a washing machine includes: a display; a communication interface configured to communicate with a dryer; and a processor, wherein if a first user input selects a washing program (or based on the first user input selecting a washing program), the processor controls the display to show a user interface (UI) for overall control of the washing machine and a dryer communicatively connected to the washing machine; if a second user input is received selecting one of a plurality of control options included in the UI (or based on the second user input receiving a second user input selecting one of a plurality of control options included in the UI), a drying program of the dryer is identified based on the washing program selected by the first user input and the control option selected by the second user input, and the communication interface is controlled to send information corresponding to the identified drying program to the dryer.

[0010] Multiple control options are available for both the washing machine's washing program and the dryer's drying program.

[0011] The control option is at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control.

[0012] The processor is also configured to obtain control information about the selected washing program based on the selected control options, and to obtain the drying program of the dryer and control information about the drying program based on the selected control options and the obtained control information about the selected washing program.

[0013] The processor is also configured to control the display to show a UI that includes control information about the washing program and control information about the drying program.

[0014] The processor is also configured to provide guidance information for at least one of a plurality of control options in the UI, based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine or dryer.

[0015] The processor is also configured to determine the display order of multiple control options included in the UI based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine or dryer.

[0016] The control options include at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control. The control power corresponding to the energy-saving control is determined based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine or dryer. The control time corresponding to the time-saving control is determined based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine or dryer.

[0017] The processor is also configured to, if the drying program of the dryer is identified, identify the detailed options of the drying program based on the selected control options, and control the information including the detailed options of the identified drying program to be sent to the dryer.

[0018] The processor is also configured to control the information corresponding to the identified drying program to be sent to the dryer via an external server.

[0019] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, a method for controlling a washing machine includes: if a first user input selecting a washing program is received, displaying a user interface (UI) for overall control of the washing machine and a dryer communicatively connected to the washing machine; identifying a drying program of the dryer based on receiving a second user input selecting one of a plurality of control options included in the UI, based on the washing program selected by the first user input and the control option selected by the second user input; and sending information corresponding to the identified drying program to the dryer.

[0020] Multiple control options are available for both the washing machine's washing program and the dryer's drying program.

[0021] The control option is at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control.

[0022] The control method also includes obtaining control information about the selected washing program based on the selected control options, and obtaining the drying program of the dryer and control information about the drying program based on the selected control options and the obtained control information about the selected washing program.

[0023] The UI displays control information for both the washing and drying programs. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A block diagram showing the specific configuration of the washing machine;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating a server according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a user interface (UI) for overall control of a washing machine and a dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the UI displayed after selecting a control option for overall control from the UI according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the UI displayed after selecting a control option for overall control from the UI according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the UI displayed after selecting a control option for overall control from the UI according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the UI displayed after selecting a control option for overall control from the UI according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 10This is a diagram illustrating the UI displayed after selecting a control option for overall control from the UI according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the UI displayed after selecting a control option for overall control from the UI according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating detailed options for the overall control of a washing machine and dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating detailed options for the overall control of a washing machine and dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating identification information on multiple devices connected to a server according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control of a washing machine and a dryer via a server according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine, dryer, and server to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine, dryer, and server to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine, dryer, and server to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine, dryer, and server to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine, dryer, and server to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 21 This is a table showing detailed options for washing programs performed by a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 22 This is a table showing detailed options for the drying process performed by a dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 23 This is a table showing the quality levels of washing and drying programs based on combinations thereof according to various embodiments of this disclosure;

[0047] Figure 24 It is a graph showing the relationship between time and power quantities under the same mass according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 25 This is a flowchart illustrating the identification of combined operations based on control options included in multiple programs in a washing machine and dryer, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram illustrating direct communication between a washing machine and a dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating the overall control performed using a washing machine and a dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 28 This is a diagram illustrating the use of a washing machine, dryer, terminal equipment, and server to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0052] Figure 29 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine, dryer, terminal equipment, and server to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0053] Figure 30 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The following discussion Figures 1 to 30 The various embodiments used to describe the principles of this disclosure in this patent document are merely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of this disclosure can be implemented in any suitably arranged system or device.

[0055] This disclosure is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0056] Considering the functionality of this disclosure, currently widely used general terms are selected as the terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure, but these can be changed according to the intent of those skilled in the art, judicial precedent, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain circumstances, terms arbitrarily chosen by the applicant may exist. In such cases, the meanings of these terms are detailed in the corresponding descriptive sections of this disclosure. Therefore, the terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure need to be defined based on their meanings and the content throughout this disclosure, rather than on their simple names.

[0057] In this disclosure, the expressions "has", "may have", "includes", "may include", etc. indicate the existence of the corresponding feature (e.g., numerical value, function, operation, component such as part), but do not exclude the existence of additional features.

[0058] In the instruction manual, "A or / and B" can refer to "A or B" or "A and B".

[0059] The expressions “first,” “second,” etc., used in this disclosure may refer to various components, regardless of their order and / or importance. These expressions are only used to distinguish one component from others and do not limit the corresponding components.

[0060] In embodiments that refer to any component (e.g., the first component) being coupled to / coupled to or connected to another component (e.g., the second component), it should be understood that any component is directly coupled to another component, or can be coupled to another component through another component (e.g., the third component).

[0061] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the singular form used herein is intended to include the plural form. It should be understood that the terms “comprising” or “forming of” as used in the specification specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof mentioned in the specification, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0062] In the embodiments, a "module" or "device / machine" may perform at least one function or operation and may be implemented by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software. Furthermore, in addition to "modules" or "devices / machines" that require implementation by specific hardware, multiple "modules" or multiple "devices / machines" may be integrated into at least one module and implemented by at least one processor (not shown).

[0063] In the instruction manual, the term "user" can refer to a person using an electronic device or the device using the electronic device (e.g., an artificial intelligence electronic device).

[0064] Embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0065] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0066] refer to Figure 1 The washing machine 100 may include a display 110, a communication interface 120, and a processor 130.

[0067] The washing machine 100 can be a device that uses a motor to wash clothes, and can be a device that performs operations such as washing programs, rinsing programs and spin-drying programs.

[0068] The display 110 can be implemented as various types of displays, such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting diode displays (OLEDs), and plasma display panels (PDPs). The display 110 may also include driving circuitry, backlight units, etc., which can be implemented in forms such as thin-film transistor (TFTs), low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) TFTs, and organic TFTs (OTFTs). Furthermore, the display 110 can be implemented in touchscreens combined with touch sensors, flexible displays, three-dimensional (3D) displays, etc.

[0069] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, in addition to the display for outputting images, the display 110 may also include a bezel accommodating the display panel. Specifically, according to various embodiments of this disclosure, the bezel may include a touch sensor for detecting user interaction.

[0070] Communication interface 120 is a component for communicating with various types of external devices using various communication methods. Communication interface 120 may include a Wi-Fi module, a Bluetooth module, an infrared communication module, a wireless communication module, etc. Each communication module can be implemented as at least one hardware chip.

[0071] The Wi-Fi module and Bluetooth module can communicate via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth respectively. In embodiments using either the Wi-Fi module or Bluetooth module, various connection information, such as Service Set Identifier (SSID) and session key, can be sent and received first to establish communication, and then various other information can be sent and received.

[0072] Infrared communication modules can perform communication based on Infrared Data Association (IrDA) technology, which uses infrared light between visible light and millimeter waves to transmit data over short distances.

[0073] In addition to the communication methods mentioned above, the wireless communication module may include at least one communication chip that performs communication based on various wireless communication standards, such as Zigbee, 3G, 3GPP, LTE, LTE-A, 4G, and 5G.

[0074] In addition, the communication interface 120 may include at least one of a wired communication module that performs communication by using a local area network (LAN) module, an Ethernet module, a twisted pair cable, a coaxial cable, a fiber optic cable, or an ultra-wideband (UWB) module.

[0075] According to various embodiments, the communication interface 120 can use the same communication module (e.g., a Wi-Fi module) to communicate with external devices (e.g., a remote control) and external servers.

[0076] According to various embodiments, the communication interface 120 can use different communication modules (e.g., a Wi-Fi module) to communicate with external devices (e.g., a remote control) and external servers. For example, the communication interface 120 can use at least one of an Ethernet module or a Wi-Fi module to communicate with an external server, and can use a Bluetooth (BT) module to communicate with external devices such as a remote control. However, in the case of communicating with multiple external devices or external servers, the communication interface 120 can use at least one of the various communication modules.

[0077] The processor 130 can perform overall control operations on the washing machine 100. Specifically, the processor 130 can be used to control the overall operation of the washing machine 100.

[0078] Processor 130 may be implemented as a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, or a time controller (TCON). However, processor 130 is not limited to these. Processor 130 may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a microprocessor unit (MPU), a controller, an application processor (AP), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), or an ARM processor, or may be defined by these terms. Furthermore, processor 130 may be implemented in a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI) in which processing algorithms are embedded, or may be implemented in the form of a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). Moreover, processor 130 can perform various functions by executing computer-executable instructions stored in memory.

[0079] The processor 130 can control the display 110 to display a general control user interface (UI) for the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 communicatively connected to the washing machine 100 based on a first user input that selects a washing program. It can also identify the drying program of the dryer 200 based on a second user input that selects one of a plurality of control options included in the UI. Furthermore, it can control the information corresponding to the identified drying program to be sent to the dryer 200 via the communication interface 120.

[0080] The first user input can be the selection of a washing program. The washing machine 100 can operate on multiple washing programs, and the user can select one of them.

[0081] Washing machine 100 can be a home appliance included in an Internet of Things (IoT) network. Dryer 200 can also be included in an IoT network. That is, the IoT network can include washing machine 100 and dryer 200. For example, washing machine 100 can communicate with dryer 200 via the IoT network. As another example, washing machine 100 can communicate with dryer 200 via an external server 300. See below. Figures 15 to 20 A related embodiment is described. As another example, the washing machine 100 can communicate directly with the dryer 200. References are provided below. Figure 26 and 27 Various embodiments related to this are described.

[0082] The processor 130 can control the generation and display of a UI for the overall control of the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 on the display 110. The UI can indicate the overall control UI. In this disclosure, the detailed functions of the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 can be adjusted or determined based on user requests. The washing machine 100 can provide the user with the UI for overall control in order to receive user requests. Simultaneously, there are various ways to provide the UI for overall control. For example, the processor 130 can control the display 110 to display the UI for overall control. As another example, the processor 130 can control information corresponding to the UI for overall control to be sent to the terminal device 400 for displaying the UI for overall control on the display of the terminal device 400. References below... Figure 28 and 29 Various embodiments related to this situation are described.

[0083] Meanwhile, the UI for overall control can include multiple control options. These control options can indicate menus or items for controlling the washing machine 100 and dryer 200. The control options can be at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control. The option for "energy-saving" control can indicate control options for operating the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 in a program with low power consumption. Furthermore, the option for "general" control can indicate control options for operating the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 in a predetermined program. Additionally, the option for "time-saving" control can indicate control options for operating the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 in a program with the minimum required time.

[0084] Meanwhile, see the following reference Figure 5 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 Describe a detailed description of the UI used for overall control.

[0085] Simultaneously, users can select one of several control options included in the UI for overall control. A selected control option can then be received as a second user input.

[0086] If a second user input is received, the processor 130 can identify the drying program based on the user-selected washing program and the user-selected control options.

[0087] The dryer 200 can operate in multiple drying programs, and the processor 130 can identify the drying program corresponding to the user-selected control option among these programs. For example, if the user selects energy-saving control, the processor 130 can identify a drying program with lower power consumption. Furthermore, if the user selects time-saving control, the processor 130 can identify a drying program that requires less time to complete. Additionally, if the user selects standard control (e.g., general control), the processor 130 can identify a pre-selected program (or standard program). In addition to the user-selected control options, the processor 130 can also consider the user-selected washing program to identify the drying program. If only the user-selected control options are considered, the drying program may not be properly associated with the washing program, and the clothes may therefore be difficult to maintain the intended quality. Therefore, the processor 130 can consider both the user-selected washing program and the user-selected control options to identify the drying program. Even if the user-selected control options are the same, the identified drying program may differ based on the user-selected washing program. See below for reference. Figures 18 to 25 A specific implementation related to this situation is described.

[0088] Simultaneously, the processor 130 can control the generation of information corresponding to the identified drying program. This information can be described as drying program information. The drying program information may include at least one of identification information corresponding to the identified drying program, control commands, or detailed options for the identified drying program. The identification information may indicate a unique number specifying the identified drying program among multiple drying programs. The control command may indicate a command to start the drying program. The detailed options may indicate the detailed functions of the identified drying program. For example, the detailed options may include at least one of time, drying temperature, or rotation speed, and may also include at least one of power consumption or drying degree as additional information.

[0089] Processor 130 can control the transmission of information corresponding to the generated drying program (drying program information). For example, processor 130 can control the generated drying program information to be sent to server 300. As another example, processor 130 can control the generated drying program information to be sent directly to dryer 200. As yet another example, processor 130 can control the generated drying program information to be sent to terminal device 400.

[0090] Meanwhile, multiple control options can be used for the washing program of the washing machine 100 and the drying program of the dryer 200.

[0091] Control options can indicate to the user the control method within the overall control of the washing machine 100 and dryer 200. As mentioned above, energy-saving control, general control, time-saving control, etc., can be control options applicable to the washing machine 100 and dryer 200. However, based on each program of the washing machine 100 and dryer 200, some control options may not be applicable. For example, time-saving control options may not be applicable to a specific program of the washing machine (e.g., "boil-wash program"). This is because a minimum amount of time may be required to execute a specific program.

[0092] Processor 130 can determine whether multiple control options are applicable to a user-selected washing program. Furthermore, based on its determination, processor 130 can control the UI used for overall control to include and display only the control options applicable to the user-selected washing program among the multiple control options. According to various embodiments, processor 130 can control the display of all multiple control options, the control options applicable to the user-selected washing program, and the inapplicable control options. For example, processor 130 can control the display of inapplicable control options in different colors, or control the display of individual objects in the locations where inapplicable control options are displayed. References below... Figure 10 Describe a detailed description related to it.

[0093] At the same time, the processor 130 can obtain control information about the selected washing program based on the selected control options, and based on the obtained control information, obtain the drying program of the dryer 200 and control information about the drying program based on the control options.

[0094] The selected washing program can be indicated by the washing program received via first user input. The selected washing program can be in a state where its basic detailed options are automatically determined. The selected control options can be indicated by the control options received via second user input. The selected washing program based on the selected control options can have multiple meanings.

[0095] For example, "washing program selected based on the selected control options" could indicate the washing program received via first user input. This could correspond to various embodiments in which the existing washing program is kept unchanged based on the user-selected control options.

[0096] As another example, "washing program selected based on selected control options" can indicate a washing program in which some of the detailed options of the washing program received via first user input are determined. In this embodiment, if the user selects a washing program, its detailed options are not yet determined, and if the user selects a control option, the detailed options of the washing program can be finally determined. Therefore, a washing program received via first user input can indicate a washing program whose detailed options have not yet been specifically determined, and "washing program selected based on selected control options" can indicate a washing program whose detailed options have been determined.

[0097] As another example, "washing program selected based on selected control options" can indicate a washing program whose detailed options are changed by the washing program received via first user input. In this case, for the washing program received via first user input, predetermined basic detailed options can be automatically determined. For example, if a standard washing program is selected, its detailed options can be predetermined to default values. If a second user input is received, the predetermined basic detailed options can be partially changed based on the control options selected by the user. Therefore, the washing program received via first user input can indicate a washing program whose detailed options are substantially determined, and "washing program selected based on selected control options" can indicate a washing program whose at least one detailed option is changed by the second user input.

[0098] To encompass various meanings, "washing program selected based on the selected control options" can be described as "washing program corresponding to the selected control options" or "washing program including detailed options corresponding to the selected control options".

[0099] Control information may indicate at least one of time information or power consumption information. Specifically, control information regarding a washing (or drying) program may indicate at least one of the time required to complete the washing (or drying) program or the amount of power consumed to complete the washing (or drying) program.

[0100] The processor 130 can identify the selected washing program based on the chosen control option and obtain time or power consumption information about the identified washing program. Furthermore, the processor 130 can identify the drying program of the dryer 200 based on the obtained control information about the washing program. Specifically, the processor 130 can obtain at least one threshold corresponding to the user-selected control option. The at least one threshold corresponding to the control option can indicate a value used as a standard for identifying a specific washing program or a specific drying program when executing the control option.

[0101] According to various embodiments, if the control option is energy-saving control, at least one threshold can indicate at least one of the minimum power consumption required to meet quality standards or the maximum power consumption required to save energy. Therefore, the amount of power consumed in performing the washing and drying programs must be at least the minimum power consumption or greater and less than the maximum power consumption. The processor 130 can consider both the minimum and maximum power consumption to determine at least one of the washing or drying programs.

[0102] According to another embodiment, if the control option is time-saving control, at least one threshold may include at least one of a minimum time to meet quality requirements or a maximum time to save time. The maximum time may be a predetermined time or a time directly input (or received) by the user. Therefore, the time required to execute the washing and drying programs must be the minimum time or greater and less than the maximum time. The processor 130 may consider both the minimum and maximum times to determine at least one of the washing or drying programs.

[0103] The following is for reference. Figures 20 to 25 Describe in detail the use of control information, etc.

[0104] Meanwhile, the processor 130 can control the display 110 to display a UI including control information about the washing program and control information about the drying program.

[0105] The processor 130 can control the generation of a UI for overall control, including control information obtained regarding the washing program and control information obtained regarding the drying program, and can control the display of the generated UI for overall control on the display 110. For example, the processor 130 can control the control information regarding the washing and drying programs to be provided to the user by controlling the operation time information and power consumption information to be displayed according to control options. (See below for reference.) Figure 6 , 7 8 and 11 describe them in detail.

[0106] At the same time, the processor 130 may provide guidance information for at least one of the multiple control options included in the control recommendation UI based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine 100 or the dryer 200.

[0107] Processor 130 can control the storage of user usage history.

[0108] According to various embodiments, the processor 130 can identify the control option most recently selected by the user or the control option most frequently used by the user based on the user's usage history.

[0109] According to some embodiments, processor 130 can determine how detailed options change and perform general washing and drying if the user does not select a control option. For example, processor 130 can control the storage of information that the user reduces the number of rinses from the default three to two in a standard washing program. Processor 130 can determine that the user's behavior of reducing the number of rinses is to save time. Furthermore, processor 130 can control the storage of information that the user lowers the drying temperature from the default 70 degrees to 60 degrees in a drying program. Processor 130 can determine that the user's behavior of lowering the drying temperature is to save energy. Processor 130 can analyze this user behavior pattern to identify control options corresponding to values ​​valued by the user. Additionally, processor 130 can control the provision of guidance information to the user for the identified control option among multiple recommended control options. The guidance information may indicate descriptive phrases or emphasized objects, notifying the user that a specific control option is recommended in the UI used for overall control. References below... Figure 9 Describe a detailed description related to it.

[0110] Meanwhile, the processor 130 can determine the display order of multiple control options included in the UI based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine 100 or the dryer 200.

[0111] The processor 130 can control the storage of user behavior patterns and obtain the usage frequency of each of a plurality of control options based on the stored user behavior patterns. Furthermore, the processor 130 can control the generation of the UI for overall control, displaying control options with high usage frequency on the top row. That is, as usage frequency increases, control options are displayed on higher rows, and the user can therefore easily select frequently used control options. Simultaneously, according to various embodiments, the processor 130 can control the storage of behavior patterns in which the user, rather than the control options, directly changes detailed options, and can identify control options to which the user assigns a maximum value based on the stored behavior patterns. Furthermore, the processor 130 can consider values ​​corresponding to user behavior that changes detailed options to determine the order of control options and control the UI for overall control to be displayed in the determined order of control options.

[0112] Meanwhile, the control options may include options for at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control, and the control power corresponding to energy-saving control may be determined based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine 100 or the dryer 200, and the control time corresponding to time-saving control may be determined based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine 100 or the dryer 200.

[0113] According to various embodiments, the control power corresponding to energy-saving control (a control option selected by the user) can indicate at least one threshold corresponding to the control option. As described above, the processor 130 can determine at least one of a washing program or a drying program based on the user-selected control option. Furthermore, at least one threshold can be used to determine operation. For example, the processor 130 can identify a combination where the total power consumption of the washing program and the drying program is a minimum power consumption or more but less than the maximum power consumption (a group of specific washing programs and specific drying programs).

[0114] Minimum and maximum power consumption can be determined through user history. For example, minimum, maximum, and average power consumption can be obtained by analyzing multiple washing and drying usage patterns used by the user within a predetermined time period. Furthermore, the processor 130 can identify the control power corresponding to energy-saving control based on the obtained power consumption. Additionally, the processor 130 can determine at least one of a washing or drying program suitable for energy-saving control selected by the user by using the identified control power as a threshold.

[0115] According to another embodiment, the control time corresponding to the time-saving control (a control option selected by the user) can indicate at least one threshold corresponding to the control option. As described above, the processor 130 can determine at least one of a washing program or a drying program based on the control option selected by the user. Furthermore, at least one threshold can be used to determine the operation. For example, the processor 130 can identify that the total time required for the washing and drying programs is a minimum time or a combination of a maximum time and a minimum time (a group of specific washing programs and specific drying programs).

[0116] Minimum and maximum times can be determined through user history. For example, minimum, maximum, and average times can be obtained by analyzing multiple washing and drying usage patterns used by the user within a predetermined time period. Furthermore, processor 130 can identify the control time corresponding to energy-saving control based on the obtained times. Additionally, processor 130 can determine at least one of the washing or drying programs suitable for time-saving control selected by the user by using the identified control time as a threshold.

[0117] Meanwhile, if the drying program of the dryer 200 is identified, the processor 130 can identify the detailed options of the drying program based on the selected control options, and the information including the detailed options of the identified specific drying program is sent to the dryer 200.

[0118] According to various embodiments, multiple drying programs may each have detailed options determined as default values. Therefore, an identified drying program may have detailed options determined as default values. The processor 130 may control changes to the detailed options of the drying program determined as default values ​​based on user-selected control options. The changed detailed options can be described as determined (or identified) detailed options.

[0119] According to some embodiments, multiple drying programs may each have only some determined detailed options among a plurality of detailed options, while other detailed options have not yet been determined. For example, in a low-noise program, the drying program may have a rotational speed determined to be slow and a drying temperature yet to be determined. If the identified drying program is a low-noise program, the processor 130 may determine the undetermined detailed option (drying temperature) based on user-selected control options.

[0120] The processor 130 can control the generation of drying program information, including the identified drying program and the determined detailed options, and control the generation of drying program information to be sent to the dryer 200.

[0121] Meanwhile, the processor 130 can control the information corresponding to the identified drying program to be sent to the dryer 200 via the external server 300.

[0122] Information regarding the identified drying program can be described as drying program information. The processor 130 can control the generated drying program information to be sent to an external server 300. Furthermore, the server 300 can send drying program information received by the dryer 200 corresponding to (or mapped to) the washing machine 100. Meanwhile, reference is made below. Figures 15 to 20 A detailed description of various embodiments using server 300.

[0123] Simultaneously, the processor 130 can control the information corresponding to the identified drying program to be sent to the dryer 200 via the server 300 and the terminal device 400. See below for reference. Figure 28 and 29 It is described in detail.

[0124] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, the overall control method of the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 is described as receiving a washing program via a first user input and receiving control options via a second user input.

[0125] Through the overall control method of the corresponding embodiments, a control mode suitable for user needs can be applied to at least one of the washing machine 100 or the dryer 200. The washing program selected by the user can be changed based on control options, and the drying program and its detailed options can also be changed based on control options. The operation of the dryer 200 can vary depending on the selected washing program and control options, which can meet various user needs.

[0126] Furthermore, the overall control method can utilize user history to determine washing and drying programs to meet user needs. Therefore, a control method that is consistent with user usage patterns can be provided.

[0127] Meanwhile, the above description describes the determination operation of the washing machine 100 in performing a determined washing program and a drying program. However, according to various embodiments, the determination operation may be performed by at least one of the dryer 200, server 300, or terminal device 400 instead of the washing machine 100.

[0128] The above description describes receiving a washing program via a first user input and control options via a second user input. However, according to some embodiments, the overall control method can be implemented by determining the form of the washing and drying programs by only receiving the second user input and not the first user input. Specifically, the drying and washing programs can be determined based on the control options received via the second user input.

[0129] In the overall control method according to certain embodiments, the drying program can be received via a first user input, and the control options can be received via a second user input. Furthermore, in the overall control method, detailed options for the drying program, the washing program, and other detailed options for the washing program can be determined based on the received drying program and the received control options. In this embodiment, the washing program can be executed first, followed by the drying program.

[0130] Furthermore, the above description only shows and describes a simple configuration of the washing machine 100, and various further configurations can be provided depending on the implementation. See below for reference. Figure 2 Describe this situation.

[0131] Figure 2 This illustrates various embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 1 A block diagram showing the specific configuration of the washing machine.

[0132] refer to Figure 2 The washing machine 100 may include a display 110, a communication interface 120, a processor 130, a memory 140, a user interface 150, a speaker 160, a drive unit 170, a detergent supply unit 181, a water supply unit 182, and a drain unit 183.

[0133] At the same time, this description omits redundant descriptions of the same operations as described above in the operation of the display 110, communication interface 120 and processor 130.

[0134] The memory 140 can be implemented as an internal memory included in the processor 130, such as a read-only memory (ROM, e.g., electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)) or random access memory (RAM), or as a memory separate from the processor 130. In this case, depending on the data storage purpose, the memory 140 can be implemented as a memory embedded in the washing machine 100 or as a memory removable from the washing machine 100. For example, data for driving the washing machine 100 can be stored in a memory embedded in the washing machine 100, and data for extended functions of the washing machine 100 can be stored in a removable memory of the washing machine 100.

[0135] Meanwhile, the memory embedded in the washing machine 100 can be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM) or synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., one-time programmable ROM (OTPROM)), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM)), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash, etc.), hard disk drive or solid-state drive (SSD); and the memory that can be removed from the washing machine 100 can be implemented as a memory card (e.g., compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro-secure digital (Micro-SD), mini-secure digital (mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), multimedia card (MMC) etc.) or external memory that can be connected to a universal serial bus (USB) port (e.g., USB memory), etc.

[0136] User interface 150 can be implemented in devices such as buttons, touchpads, mice, and keyboards, or in touchscreens that can perform operation input functions in addition to the aforementioned display functions. Buttons can be various types of buttons, such as mechanical buttons, touchpads, scroll wheels, etc., and can be formed in any area of ​​the main body appearance of washing machine 100, such as the front surface, side surface, rear surface, etc.

[0137] The speaker 160 can be a component that not only outputs various audio data processed by the input / output interface, but also outputs various notification sounds or voice messages.

[0138] The drive unit 170 may include a drive motor. The drive unit 170 can rotate a drum containing clothes. Specifically, the drive unit 170 can rotate the drum containing clothes by driving the drive motor. The drive motor of the drive unit 170 can receive electricity and generate driving force, and the drive unit 170 can transmit the generated driving force only to the pulsator or simultaneously to the drum and the pulsator. In addition, the drive unit 170 can receive a drive control signal generated by the processor 130 and drive the detergent supply unit 181 to supply the detergent contained in the detergent supply unit 181 to the drum containing clothes. In addition, the drive unit 170 can receive a drive control signal generated by the processor 130 and drive the water supply unit 182 to supply washing water to the drum, or drive the drain unit 183 to drain the washing water contained in the drum from the washing machine 100.

[0139] When the drive unit 170 is activated, the detergent supply unit 181 supplies detergent stored in the detergent reservoir to the drum containing the clothes. The detergent supply unit 181 can be connected to a detergent hose. If the water supply valve of the water supply unit 182 is opened and water is supplied to the water supply hose, the detergent supplied from the detergent supply unit 181 can mix with and dissolve in the water. Furthermore, the water mixed with the dissolved detergent can be supplied to the drum containing the clothes through the water supply hose.

[0140] The water supply section 182 may include a water supply pipe connected to an external water source and a water supply valve for opening and closing the water supply pipe. If the water supply pipe is open, water can be supplied from an external water source through the water supply pipe.

[0141] The drainage section 183 may include a pump, a first drain pipe, and a second drain pipe. The pump can draw water from the drum. One end of the first drain pipe can be connected to the lower part of the drum, and the other end can be connected to the pump to move water in the drum to the pump. One end of the second drain pipe can be connected to the pump, and the other end can extend to the outside of the main body of the washing machine 100 for discharging water from the drum to the outside. Therefore, if the pump operates, water from the drum can be discharged from the washing machine 100 through the first drain pipe and the second drain pipe.

[0142] Additionally, the washing machine 100 may include a drying section (not shown). The drying section (not shown) may include a heater and a blower fan. Furthermore, the drying section (not shown) may use the heater and blower fan to apply heat to the drum at a predetermined temperature to dry clothes. However, the drying section (not shown) is not an essential component of the washing machine 100, and according to various embodiments, the drying section (not shown) may not be included in the washing machine 100.

[0143] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0144] refer to Figure 3 The dryer 200 may include a display 210, a communication interface 220, a processor 230, a memory 240, a user interface 250, a speaker 260, a drive unit 270, a heating unit 281, a blower fan 282, a moisture exhaust unit 283, and a temperature sensor 290.

[0145] The dryer 200 can be a device for drying wet clothes. Specifically, the dryer 200 can use heat to evaporate moisture or use physical force to separate moisture from the clothes.

[0146] Meanwhile, the descriptions of the display 210, communication interface 220, processor 230, memory 240, user interface 250, and speaker 260 can correspond to the descriptions of... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The description of the configuration of the display 110, communication interface 120, processor 130, memory 140, user interface 150 and speaker 160 is omitted, therefore its redundant description is omitted.

[0147] The processor 230 can perform overall control operations on the dryer 200. Specifically, the processor 230 can be used to control the overall operation of the dryer 200.

[0148] The processor 230 can control the receiving of drying program information through the communication interface 220 and control the sending of information related to the dryer 200 to the washing machine 100, server 300 or terminal device 400.

[0149] The drive unit 270 may include a drive motor, and the drive unit 270 may use the drive motor to drive the heating unit 281 and the blower fan 282. Specifically, the drive motor of the drive unit 270 may receive electricity and generate driving force, which the drive unit 270 may transmit to the heating unit 281 and the blower fan 282. The drive unit 270 may receive a drive control signal generated by the processor 230 and drive the heating unit 281 to provide a heat source to the drum. Furthermore, the drive unit 270 may receive a drive control signal generated by the processor 230 and drive the blower fan 282 to circulate air within the drum supplied with the heat source.

[0150] The heating element 281 can be implemented by a gas heating source or an electric heating source. A gas heating source can use gas to heat air. An electric heating source can use electricity to heat air. An electric heating source can use at least one of a heater or a heat pump. A heater can be implemented using a heating wire, etc. A heat pump can be implemented using a refrigerant. A heat pump can include an evaporator, a compressor, and a condenser.

[0151] The blower fan 282 can be implemented as a fan that purifies the hot air supplied to the drum of the dryer 200. Specifically, the blower fan 282 can receive a drive control signal from the drive unit 270 and drive the fan.

[0152] The moisture discharge section 283 can discharge moisture from inside the dryer 200. Depending on the moisture discharge method, the dryer 200 can be either a ventilation type (hot air discharge method) or a condensation type (hot air dehumidification method).

[0153] Temperature sensor 290 can detect the temperature inside dryer 200. Temperature sensor 290 may include at least one of a first temperature sensor that detects the air temperature in the drum inside dryer 200 or a second temperature sensor that detects the refrigerant temperature inside dryer 200. Temperature data detected by temperature sensor 290 can be sent to processor 230, which can control the operation of dryer 200 based on the detected temperature data.

[0154] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating a server 300 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0155] refer to Figure 4 The server 300 may include a communication interface 310, a memory 320, and a processor 330. Furthermore, the configuration of the communication interface 310, memory 320, and processor 330 may correspond to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The configuration of the communication interface 120, memory 140 and processor 130 is omitted, therefore redundant descriptions of them are omitted.

[0156] Processor 330 can perform overall control operations of server 300. Specifically, processor 330 can be used to control the overall operation of server 300.

[0157] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a user interface (UI) 500 for overall control of a washing machine and dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0158] refer to Figure 5 The washing machine 100 can provide a UI 500 for overall control. Specifically, the washing machine 100 can display the UI 500 for overall control on a display 110. Additionally, the UI 500 for overall control may include multiple control options 501-1, 502-1, and 503-1, and description areas 501-2, 502-2, and 503-2 corresponding to the multiple control options, respectively.

[0159] Control option 501-1, corresponding to the "energy saving" control option, can indicate a control option that controls the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 to consume low power. Additionally, description area 501-2 may include information containing the degree of energy saving.

[0160] Furthermore, control option 502-1, corresponding to the "general" control option, can indicate control options in which the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 are controlled to operate in a predetermined program. Additionally, description area 502-2 may include a description of the predetermined program.

[0161] Control option 502-1 corresponding to the "time-saving" control can instruct the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 to be controlled to require the minimum time. Additionally, description area 503-2 can include at least one of time-saving degree or operating time.

[0162] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating a UI 600 displayed after selecting a control option from a UI 500 for overall control, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0163] refer to Figure 6 The washing machine 100 can display a new UI 600 for overall control based on the control options selected from the UI 500 for overall control. To distinguish between the UI 600 for overall control and... Figure 5 The UI 500 for overall control can be described as a UI for overall control selection, and the UI 600 for overall control can be described as a UI for overall control results. Here, it is shown that the user selects energy-saving control option 501-1 from multiple control options.

[0164] Based on the user-selected control options, the washing machine 100 can identify the washing program and the drying program. Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can obtain control information regarding the identified washing program and control information regarding the identified drying program. The control information may indicate at least one of time information or power consumption information. The UI 600 for overall control may include at least one of control information regarding the washing machine 100, control information regarding the dryer 200, or control information regarding both the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200.

[0165] The UI 600 for overall control may include a table 601 displaying control information corresponding to general control options and a table 602 displaying control information corresponding to energy-saving control options. In embodiments displaying tables 601 and 602, the user can easily understand how much time and power consumption have changed compared to general control options.

[0166] Meanwhile, according to various embodiments, the UI 600 for overall control may consist of only table 602.

[0167] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a UI 700 displayed after selecting a control option from a UI 500 for overall control, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0168] refer to Figure 7 The washing machine 100 can display a new UI 700 for overall control based on the control options selected from the UI 500 for overall control. Here, it is shown that the user selects energy-saving control option 501-1 from among several control options.

[0169] The UI 700 for overall control may include at least one of a graph 701 comparing the power consumption of general control options and energy-saving control options, or a graph 702 comparing the time consumption of the two options. According to various embodiments, if an energy-saving control option is selected, the washing machine 100 may display only the graph 701 comparing the power consumption of the two options.

[0170] Charts 701 and 702 may be displayed in a graded bar chart and may include numerical information (e.g., “5000W”, “4000W”, “3 hours”, and “4 hours”).

[0171] However, according to various embodiments, the UI 700 for overall control may include various types of graphics other than hierarchical bar charts.

[0172] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a UI 800 displayed after selecting a control option from a UI 500 for overall control, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0173] refer to Figure 8 The washing machine 100 can display a new UI 800 for overall control based on the control options selected from the UI 500 for overall control. This shows the user selecting energy-saving control from multiple control options.

[0174] The UI 800 for overall control may include a table 801 displaying control information corresponding to general control options and a table 802 displaying control information corresponding to energy-saving control options. The control information included in tables 801 and 802 may be at least one of operation time information, power consumption information, program information, or detailed option information.

[0175] The program information can indicate the operating mode of each of the washing machine 100 and dryer 200. Detailed option information can indicate details of the operating modes of the washing machine 100 and dryer 200. Detailed options for the washing program may include at least one of washing temperature, number of rinses, or spin intensity; detailed options for the drying program may include at least one of drying temperature or spin speed.

[0176] The UI 800 for overall control can include detailed options for the washing program and the drying program. Therefore, users can easily understand how the detailed functions differ based on the selected control options.

[0177] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a UI 900 displayed after selecting a control option from a UI 500 for overall control, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0178] refer to Figure 9 The washing machine 100 can provide a UI 900 for overall control. (Already referenced...) Figure 5 UI 500, which relates to the control options, is described, so redundant descriptions of it are omitted.

[0179] The UI 900 for overall control may include multiple control options. The washing machine 100 may display guide UIs 901 and 902 regarding at least one of these control options. Guide UIs 901 and 902 may be UIs used to guide the user's selection. The washing machine 100 may analyze the user usage history of the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 to identify recommended control options based on at least one of the most recently used or most frequently used control options. Furthermore, guide UIs 901 and 902 corresponding to the identified recommended control options may be displayed on the UI 900 for overall control.

[0180] The guide UI 901 can be a boundary-style UI displayed at the edge of the control options, and the guide UI 902 can be a predetermined graphical UI displayed at the corner of the control options. Meanwhile, this description describes UI 900 for overall control, including references. Figure 9 The UI 900 includes boot UI 901 and boot UI 902. However, according to various embodiments, the UI 900 for overall control may include either boot UI 901 or boot UI 902.

[0181] If the corresponding control options are displayed as guide UI 901 and 902, users can quickly and easily select frequently used control options based on the guide UI.

[0182] Figure 10This is a diagram illustrating a UI 1000 displayed after selecting a control option from a UI 500 for overall control, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0183] refer to Figure 10 The washing machine 100 can provide a UI 1000 for overall control. (Already referenced...) Figure 5 UI 500, which relates to the control options, is described, so redundant descriptions of it are omitted.

[0184] The washing machine 100 can recognize control options corresponding to the washing program selected by the user. Specifically, if the user selects a washing program, the washing machine 100 can recognize the control options corresponding to the selected washing program and can generate a UI 1000 for overall control that includes the recognized control options. Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can provide the generated UI 1000 for overall control.

[0185] The UI 1000 for overall control may include multiple control options. When controlling the washing machine 100 and dryer 200, not all control options may be applicable to the control program of the washing machine 100. For example, if control options such as energy-saving control, general control, and time-saving control exist, the time-saving control option may not be applicable to a specific program of the washing machine (e.g., the "boiling-wash program"). This is because executing a specific program may require minimal time. Simply saving time would affect the quality of washing and drying; therefore, the washing machine 100 can selectively apply time-saving control options to each washing program.

[0186] Suppose that the time-saving control options are not applicable to the washing program selected by the user. The UI1000 for overall control can display time-saving control options that are different from the applicable control options and are not applicable to the washing program selected by the user from multiple control options.

[0187] For example, the washing machine 100 may not include time-saving control options that are not applicable to the washing program selected by the user in the UI 1000 used for overall control.

[0188] As another example, the washing machine 100 may display a time-saving control option 1000-1 that is not applicable to the washing program selected by the user, and display a description area 1000-2 corresponding to the option in a color different from the color of the applicable control option.

[0189] As another example, the washing machine 100 may display a new object 1001-3 at the location where a time-saving control option 1000-1 that is not applicable to the washing program selected by the user is displayed. The new object 1001-3 may be an object of a shape used to guide the user to the location of the displayed object 1001-3 where the control option is not applicable.

[0190] If a time-saving control option that is not applicable to the washing program selected by the user is displayed differently from the applicable control option, the user can easily understand whether the control option is applicable.

[0191] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating UI 1100 displayed after selecting a control option from UI 500 for overall control, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0192] refer to Figure 11 The washing machine 100 can provide a UI 1100 for overall control, which includes tables 1101, 1102 and 1103, each containing control information corresponding to multiple control options.

[0193] If the user selects a control option, then Figure 6 The UI 600 shown for overall control can include control information corresponding to the selected control options. However, before the user selects a control option, Figure 11 The UI 1100 shown for overall control may include control information corresponding to multiple control options.

[0194] Users can easily check the control information for the selectable control options as tables 1101, 1102 and 1103.

[0195] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating detailed options for the overall control of a washing machine 100 and a dryer 200 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0196] refer to Figure 12 The washing machine 100 and dryer 200 may each include multiple programs. Referring to Table 1200, the washing and drying options can be determined based on the user-selected washing program and control options.

[0197] For example, if a standard program is selected in the washing program and an energy-saving control option is also selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing option to "low water temperature and gentle spin-drying", the drying program to "standard", and the drying option to "low drying level".

[0198] As another example, if a standard program is selected from the washing program and general control options are chosen, the washing machine 100 can set the washing options as the "default options," the drying program as "custom drying," and the drying options as the "default options."

[0199] As another example, if a standard program is selected from the washing program and the time-saving control option is selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing option to "intensive spin-drying," the drying program to "quick drying," and the drying option to "default option."

[0200] As another example, if the washing program is selected as the "cushion" program and the energy-saving control option is also selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing option to "low water temperature and gentle spin," the drying program to "cushion," and the drying option to "low drying level."

[0201] As another example, if the futon program is selected from the washing program and the general control options are also selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing options as the "default options," set the drying program as "futon drying," and set the drying options as the "default options."

[0202] As another example, if the futon program is selected from the washing program and the time-saving control option is selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing option to "intense spin-drying", the drying program to "quick drying", and the drying option to "default option".

[0203] Meanwhile, this description is only for Figure 12 The contents of some programs are described. However, the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 can include a variety of programs.

[0204] Washing programs can include basic programs and additional programs. Basic programs can include standard programs, quick programs, wool / underwear programs, rinse and spin programs, and detergent-free drum cleaning programs. Additional programs can include boiling wash programs, intensive wash programs, energy-saving wash programs, towel programs, futon programs, baby clothing programs, and outdoor clothing programs.

[0205] Drying programs can include basic programs and additional programs. Basic programs can include standard programs, custom drying, quick drying, shirt drying, futon drying, towel drying, delicate garment drying, synthetic fiber drying, wool drying, sportswear drying, and jeans drying. Additional programs can include air sterilization programs, futon / dust removal programs, and internal care programs.

[0206] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating detailed options for the overall control of a washing machine 100 and a dryer 200 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0207] refer to Figure 13 The washing machine 100 and dryer 200 may each include multiple programs. Referring to Table 1300, the washing and drying options can be determined separately based on the user-selected washing program and control options.

[0208] For example, if a standard program is selected from the washing program and an energy-saving control option is selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing option to a washing temperature of 30 degrees Celsius, two rinses and a gentle spin-drying intensity, and the drying option to a drying temperature of 40 degrees Celsius and a low spin speed.

[0209] For another example, if a standard program is selected from the washing program and a general control option is chosen, the washing machine 100 can set the washing option to a washing temperature of 40 degrees, two rinses and medium spin intensity, and the drying option to a drying temperature of 60 degrees and medium spin speed.

[0210] As another example, if a standard program is selected from the washing program and the time-saving control option is selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing options to a washing temperature of 50 degrees, two rinses and the strongest spin intensity, and set the drying options to a drying temperature of 80 degrees and a fast spin speed.

[0211] As another example, if the futon program is selected from the washing program and the energy-saving control option is selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing option to a washing temperature of 30 degrees, three rinses and medium spin intensity, and the drying option to a drying temperature of 80 degrees and low spin speed.

[0212] For another example, if the futon program is selected from the washing program and the general control option is selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing option to a washing temperature of 40 degrees, three rinses and strong spin intensity, and the drying option to a drying temperature of 80 degrees and medium spin speed.

[0213] For another example, if the futon program is selected from the washing program and the time-saving control option is selected, the washing machine 100 can set the washing options to a washing temperature of 50 degrees, three rinses and the strongest spin intensity, and set the drying options to a drying temperature of 80 degrees and a fast spin speed.

[0214] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating identification information on multiple devices connected to a server according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0215] refer to Figure 14 The washing machine 100 and dryer 200 may be included in a network. This network may include an Internet of Things (IoT) network. An IoT network may include multiple home appliances that communicate with each other. A host device managing the IoT network may store at least one of the following: device identification information, device type, or device user of the multiple devices included in the IoT network.

[0216] Referring to Table 1400, the first user (User 1) can use three devices, and the device identification information for these three devices can be #01, #02, and #03. Additionally, the second user (User 2) can use two devices, and the device identification information for these two devices can be #04 and #05.

[0217] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the control of a washing machine 100 and a dryer 200 by a server 300 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0218] refer to Figure 15 In the system 1500 according to various embodiments, the washing machine 100, the dryer 200, and the server 300 can communicate with each other. Specifically, the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 can communicate with each other through the server 300. The server 300 can instruct devices communicating with the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200. Specifically, the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 can exchange information with the server 300 using their respective communication interfaces included therein.

[0219] For example, server 300 may designate an external server capable of managing washing machine 100 and dryer 200. As another example, server 300 may designate a host device in an IoT network that includes washing machine 100 and dryer 200.

[0220] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine 100, a dryer 200, and a server 300 to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0221] refer to Figure 16 The washing machine 100 can receive a first user input (washing program) (operation 1605). If the first user input is received, the washing machine 100 can display a UI for overall control (operation 1610). [Already referenced] Figure 5 , 9 10 and 11 describe the UI used for overall control, so redundant descriptions of them are omitted.

[0222] The user can select one of several control options included in the UI for overall control. The washing machine 100 can receive a second user input (control option) selected by the user (operation 1615). The control option can be at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control.

[0223] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can identify the drying program based on received first user input (washing program) and second user input (control options) (operation 1620). The washing machine 100 can generate drying program information. The drying program information may include identification information corresponding to the identified drying program, control commands, or detailed options for the identified drying program. The identification information corresponding to the drying program may indicate a unique number specifying the identified drying program among multiple drying programs. The control command may indicate a command to start the drying program. The detailed options may indicate the detailed functions of the identified drying program.

[0224] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can execute a washing program (operation 1625). Executing a washing program can instruct the execution of a control command corresponding to the washing program selected by the first user input. For example, if the first user input is "standard washing program," the washing machine 100 can start the "standard washing program" in operation 1625. Here, "execute" can be replaced by expressions such as "start," "perform," "run," or "service."

[0225] In addition, the washing machine 100 can send identification information about itself and identified drying program information (operation 1630). The identification information about the washing machine 100 can indicate a unique number for the washing machine 100. The unique number can indicate a number used to identify the washing machine 100 among multiple electronic devices.

[0226] Server 300 can receive identification information and drying program information about washing machine 100 from washing machine 100. Furthermore, server 300 can obtain identification information about dryer 200 corresponding to the received identification information about washing machine 100 (operation 1635). Server 300 can store table information to which identification information about dryer 200 corresponding to identification information about multiple washing machines is mapped. Server 300 can store multiple devices included in a specific IoT network in the mapping table. Therefore, server 300 can identify which IoT network the identification information about washing machine 100 received from washing machine 100 is included in. Furthermore, if identification information about washing machine 100 is received from washing machine 100, server 300 can obtain identification information about dryer 200 corresponding to the identification information about washing machine 100 included in the IoT network.

[0227] In addition, server 300 can send the drying program information received from washing machine 100 to dryer 200 corresponding to the identification information about the identified dryer 200 (operation 1640).

[0228] Dryer 200 can schedule a drying program based on drying program information received from server 300 (operation 1645).

[0229] At the same time, the washing machine 100 can determine whether the washing program executed in operation 1625 has been completed (operation 1650). Furthermore, if the washing program is completed, the washing machine 100 can send information indicating that the washing program has been completed to the dryer 200 (operation 1655).

[0230] Based on the washing program completion information received from the washing machine 100, the dryer 200 can determine whether the loading of clothes into the dryer 200 has been completed (operation 1660). If clothes are not loaded into the dryer 200, the dryer 200 can provide a notification that clothes have been loaded (operation 1665). Providing the notification may be at least one of outputting predetermined audio data through a speaker or outputting predetermined image data on a display. According to various embodiments, the notification may be provided through a user's terminal device.

[0231] Meanwhile, once the clothes have been loaded into the dryer 200, the washing machine 100 can execute the drying program scheduled in operation 1645 (operation 1670).

[0232] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine 100, a dryer 200, and a server 300 to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0233] refer to Figure 17 The washing machine 100 can receive a first user input (washing program) (operation 1705), can display a UI for overall control (operation 1710), and can receive a second user input (control option) among multiple control options included in the UI for overall control (operation 1715). Operations 1705, 1710, and 1715 are the same as operations 1605, 1610, and 1615, therefore repeated descriptions of them are omitted. Furthermore, although in Figure 17 The document does not describe how to omit redundant operations, but operations 1650, 1655, 1660, 1665, and 1670 can be applied. Figure 17 Examples of implementations.

[0234] The washing machine 100 can execute a specific washing program based on the first user input (operation 1720).

[0235] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can send identification information, washing program information, and control option information about the washing machine 100 to the server 300 (operation 1725). The washing program information can indicate the identification information, control commands, and detailed options of the identified washing program corresponding to the washing program. The identification information corresponding to the washing program can indicate a unique number of the identified washing program among multiple washing programs. The detailed options can indicate the detailed functions of the identified washing program.

[0236] Server 300 can identify the drying program based on the washing program and user-selected control options included in the washing program information received from washing machine 100 (operation 1730). If other washing programs and control options are determined, the identified drying program may also be different. Furthermore, server 300 can obtain identification information about dryer 200 corresponding to the identification information about washing machine 100 received from washing machine 100 (operation 1735). Furthermore, server 300 can generate drying program information that includes the drying program identified in operation 1730 and the identification information about dryer 200 obtained in operation 1735. Furthermore, server 300 can send the generated drying program information to dryer 200 (operation 1740).

[0237] Furthermore, the dryer 200 can schedule a drying program based on drying program information received from the server 300 (operation 1745). Additionally, after the washing program executed in the washing machine 100 is completed, the dryer 200 can execute the scheduled drying program.

[0238] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine 100, a dryer 200, and a server 300 to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0239] refer to Figure 18 The washing machine 100 can receive a first user input (washing program) (operation 1805), can display a UI for overall control (operation 1810), and can receive a second user input (control option) among multiple control options included in the UI for overall control (operation 1815). Operations 1805, 1810, and 1815 are the same as operations 1605, 1610, and 1615, therefore repeated descriptions of them are omitted. Furthermore, although in Figure 18 The document does not describe how to omit redundant operations, but operations 1650, 1655, 1660, 1665, and 1670 can be applied. Figure 18 Examples of implementations.

[0240] If the user selects a washing program, the detailed options corresponding to that program can be predetermined. The washing machine 100 can change the detailed options of the washing program based on the user's selected control options (operation 1820). For example, if the user selects a standard washing program, the detailed options for the standard washing program could be a one-hour washing time, a washing temperature of 40 degrees Celsius, two rinses, and a medium spin-drying intensity. If the user selects an energy-saving control option, the washing machine 100 can change the detailed options of the standard washing program to a washing temperature of 30 degrees Celsius, two rinses, and a weak spin-drying intensity.

[0241] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can identify the drying program and its detailed options based on the control options selected by the user (operation 1825). Specifically, the washing machine 100 can determine the operation to be performed by the dryer 200 to obtain a result corresponding to the control options selected by the user. Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can generate drying program information, which includes identification information corresponding to the identified drying program and its detailed options. Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can execute a washing program based on changes to the detailed options of the washing program (operation 1830). Additionally, the washing machine 100 can send the identification information and drying program information about the washing program to the server 300 (operation 1835).

[0242] Server 300 can obtain identification information about dryer 200 corresponding to the identification information received from washing machine 100 (operation 1840). Furthermore, server 300 can send drying program information to dryer 200 based on the identification information about dryer 200 (operation 1845).

[0243] Furthermore, the dryer 200 can schedule a drying program based on drying program information received from the server 300 (operation 1850). Additionally, after the washing program executed in the washing machine 100 is completed, the dryer 200 can execute the scheduled drying program.

[0244] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine 100, a dryer 200, and a server 300 to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0245] refer to Figure 19 The washing machine 100 can receive a first user input (washing program) (operation 1905), can display a UI for overall control (operation 1910), and can receive a second user input (control option) among multiple control options included in the UI for overall control (operation 1915). Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can send identification information, washing program information, and control option information about the washing machine 100 to the server 300 (operation 1920). Operations 1905, 1910, 1915, and 1920 are the same as operations 1705, 1710, 1715, and 1720, therefore redundant descriptions of them are omitted. Furthermore, although in Figure 19 The document does not describe how to omit redundant operations, but operations 1650, 1655, 1660, 1665, and 1670 can be applied. Figure 19 Examples of implementations.

[0246] Server 300 can identify the drying program based on the washing program and control options (operation 1925). Furthermore, server 300 can determine the detailed options for the washing program and the detailed options for the drying program (operation 1930). Specifically, server 300 can change the detailed options of the washing program selected by the first user input based on the results corresponding to the control options selected by the user, and determine the drying program and its detailed options. Additionally, server 300 can obtain identification information about the dryer 200 corresponding to the identification information on the washing machine 100 (operation 1935).

[0247] In addition, server 300 can generate washing program information that includes detailed options and control commands for the washing program. Furthermore, server 300 can generate drying program information that includes detailed options, control commands, and identification information corresponding to the drying program.

[0248] Furthermore, server 300 can send the generated washing program information to washing machine 100 (operation 1940). Additionally, washing machine 100 can execute a washing program based on the detailed options included in the received washing program information (operation 1945).

[0249] Furthermore, server 300 can send the generated drying program information to dryer 200 (operation 1950). Additionally, dryer 200 can schedule a drying program based on the drying program and its detailed options included in the received drying program information (operation 1955). Furthermore, after the washing program executed in washing machine 100 is completed, dryer 200 can execute the scheduled drying program.

[0250] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine 100, a dryer 200, and a server 300 to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0251] refer to Figure 20 The washing machine 100 can receive a first user input (washing program) (operation 2005), can display a UI for overall control (operation 2010), and can receive a second user input (control option) among multiple control options included in the UI for overall control (operation 2015). Operations 2005, 2010, and 2015 are the same as operations 1605, 1610, and 1615, therefore repeated descriptions of them are omitted. Furthermore, although in Figure 20 The document does not describe how to omit redundant operations, but operations 1650, 1655, 1660, 1665, and 1670 can be applied. Figure 20 Examples of implementations.

[0252] The washing machine 100 can obtain control information about the washing program corresponding to the control option selected by the user (operation 2020). The control information may include at least one of time information or power consumption information about the washing program. For example, if the user selects energy-saving control, the washing machine 100 can obtain time information (e.g., one hour) and power consumption information (e.g., 2000W) about a standard washing program received through a first user input.

[0253] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can identify the drying program based on the control information obtained about the washing program (operation 2025). The washing machine 100 can generate drying program information including identification information and control commands corresponding to the identified drying program.

[0254] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can obtain control information regarding the drying program corresponding to the control options (operation 2030). For example, if the user selects energy-saving control, the washing machine 100 can identify the drying program corresponding to the standard washing program. Additionally, the washing machine 100 can obtain time information (e.g., three hours) and power consumption information (e.g., 2500W) regarding the drying program.

[0255] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can generate a UI for overall control, including control information about the washing program obtained in operation 2020 and control information about the drying program obtained in operation 2030, and display the generated UI for overall control (operation 2035). Additionally, the washing machine 100 can execute a washing program (operation 2040).

[0256] In addition, the washing machine 100 can send identification information and drying program information about the washing machine 100 (operation 2045).

[0257] Server 300 can obtain identification information about dryer 200 corresponding to the identification information about washing machine 100 received from washing machine 100 (operation 2050). Furthermore, server 300 can send received drying program information to dryer 200 based on the obtained identification information about dryer 200 (operation 2055).

[0258] The dryer 200 can schedule a drying program based on drying program information received from the server 300. Furthermore, the dryer 200 can execute a scheduled drying program after the washing program in the washing machine 100 has completed.

[0259] Meanwhile, according to various embodiments, the detailed options of the washing program can be changed based on the control options in operation 2020, and the washing machine 100 can obtain control information based on the changed detailed options.

[0260] Figure 21This is a table showing detailed options for washing programs performed by the washing machine 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0261] refer to Figure 21 Table 2100 may include multiple washing programs that can be performed by the washing machine 100 and their detailed options. The detailed options of the washing machine 100 may include at least one of time, power consumption, washing temperature, number of rinses, spin intensity, or washing degree.

[0262] Increasing any of the washing temperature, number of rinses, or spin intensity may result in higher power consumption. With increased rinses, the wash cycle may run longer. However, increasing any of the washing time, temperature, number of rinses, or spin intensity will result in a higher degree of cleanliness. The degree of cleanliness indicates the satisfaction or quality of the washing program. In other words, a higher degree of cleanliness increases the likelihood that clothes will be properly cleaned.

[0263] For example, corresponding to Figure 6 The program for the general control of the washing machine 100 in Table 601 can be programs 1-3 of Table 2100. For example, corresponding to Figure 6 The program for energy-saving control of washing machine 100 in Table 602 can be program 1-2 of Table 2100.

[0264] Figure 22 This is a table showing detailed options for the drying process performed by a dryer according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0265] refer to Figure 22 Table 2200 may include multiple drying programs that can be performed by dryer 200 and their detailed options. The detailed options of dryer 200 may include at least one of time, power consumption, drying temperature, rotation speed, or degree of drying.

[0266] If any of the drying time, drying temperature, or rotation speed is increased, the power consumption may be higher.

[0267] For example, corresponding to Figure 6 The program for the general control of the dryer 200 in Table 601 can be program 2-3 of Table 2200. Furthermore, corresponding to... Figure 6 The program for energy-saving control of dryer 200 in Table 602 can be program 3-1 of Table 2200.

[0268] Figure 23 This is a table showing the quality levels of washing and drying programs based on combinations of washing and drying programs according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0269] refer to Figure 23Table 2300 may include the overall quality level based on the determined operation of the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200. For example, if the washing machine 100 performs a 1-1 program and the dryer 200 performs a 1-1 program, the quality level may be 1.

[0270] Quality ratings indicate the overall level of satisfaction with the washing and drying of garments.

[0271] Figure 24 It is a graph showing the relationship between time and power quantities under the same quality according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0272] refer to Figure 24 Figure 2400 can show the relationship between time and power consumption based on various embodiments in which the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 are controlled in various programs to obtain a predetermined quality of clothing.

[0273] To complete washing and drying in a short time, the washing machine 100 can have fewer rinse cycles and a stronger spin cycle. Furthermore, the dryer 200 can increase its temperature to maximum and its spin speed to a higher level. While washing and drying can be completed quickly, energy consumption can be high due to the need to maximize the capacity of both the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200.

[0274] Conversely, if the washing machine 100 has a strong spin cycle while performing a large number of rinses, and if the dryer has a low spin speed while operating at a low temperature, power consumption can be reduced. However, the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 operating under these conditions may require a long time to complete the cycle.

[0275] The control methods for the washing machine 100 and dryer 200 according to various embodiments of this disclosure can be determined based on this relationship between time and power consumption.

[0276] Figure 25 This is a flowchart illustrating the identification of combined operations based on control options included in multiple programs in the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0277] refer to Figure 25 The washing machine 100 can receive a washing program via a first user input and control options via a second user input (operation 2505). Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can analyze the control information based on the control options selected in the control information regarding multiple washing programs and multiple drying programs (operation 2510). For example, suppose the user selects energy-saving control. The washing machine 100 can obtain control information corresponding to each program using Tables 2100 and 2200. The control information can indicate at least one of time information or power consumption information.

[0278] The washing machine 100 can obtain a total value of control information regarding a combination group in which one of multiple washing programs and one of multiple drying programs are combined with each other (operation 2515). The total value of the control information may include at least one of a total time value or a total power consumption value. For example, in Figure 6 In Table 601, the total time can be three hours, and the total power consumption can be 5000Wh. Furthermore, in Figure 6 In Table 602, the total time can be 4 hours, and the total power consumption can be 4000Wh. An embodiment of Table 601 can be an embodiment showing a combination of programs 1-3 of the washing machine 100 and programs 2-3 of the dryer 200. An embodiment of Table 602 can be an embodiment showing a combination of programs 1-2 of the washing machine 100 and programs 3-1 of the dryer 200.

[0279] Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can determine whether the total value (e.g., total power consumption) corresponding to the user-selected control option (e.g., energy-saving control) in the combined group is less than a first threshold (operation 2520). The first threshold can be a value pre-stored based on the control option. For example, if energy-saving control is the selected control option, the first threshold can indicate the maximum allowable power consumption for energy saving. The washing machine 100 can store the first threshold as a predetermined power consumption so as not to exceed the maximum power consumption. As another example, if time-saving control is the selected control option, the first threshold can indicate the maximum operating time required to save time. The washing machine 100 can store the first threshold as a predetermined time so as not to exceed the maximum time.

[0280] If the total value corresponding to the control option is a first threshold or greater, the washing machine 100 can change the combination group (operation 2525). Furthermore, operation 2515 can be performed based on the changed combination group.

[0281] Simultaneously, if the total value corresponding to the control options is a second threshold or less, the washing machine 100 can determine whether the quality level of the combination group is higher than the second threshold (operation 2530). The second threshold can indicate the minimum quality level. Even when energy-saving control options or time-saving control options are applied, the minimum quality level for washing and drying must be met. Therefore, among the various combinations of washing and drying programs, groups that cannot meet the minimum quality level can be excluded from the final decision.

[0282] If the total value corresponding to the control options is less than the second threshold, the washing machine 100 can change the combination group (operation 2525). In addition, operation 2515 can be performed based on the changed combination group.

[0283] Meanwhile, if the total value corresponding to the control option is the second threshold or greater, the washing machine 100 can execute the combined washing program and schedule the combined drying program (operation 2535).

[0284] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram illustrating direct communication between a washing machine 100 and a dryer 200 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0285] refer to Figure 26 In another embodiment of the system 2600, the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 can communicate directly with each other.

[0286] For example, the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 can be connected to each other via a wired cable and can exchange information with each other via the wired cable connected to them.

[0287] As another example, the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 can connect to each other via a wireless communication interface to exchange information directly.

[0288] Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating the overall control performed using a washing machine 100 and a dryer 200 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0289] refer to Figure 27 Operations 2705, 2710, 2715, 2720, and 2725 can correspond to Figure 16 Operations 1605, 1610, 1615, 1620, and 1625 are therefore omitted from repeated descriptions.

[0290] The washing machine 100 can send drying program information to the dryer 200 (operation 2730). Furthermore, the dryer 200 can schedule a drying program based on the drying program information received from the washing machine 100 (operation 2735). Additionally, after the washing program executed in the washing machine 100 is completed, the dryer 200 can execute the scheduled drying program. Specifically, operations 2740, 2745, 2750, 2755, and 2760 can correspond to... Figure 16 Operations 1650, 1655, 1660, 1665, and 1670 are used, so repeated descriptions of them are omitted.

[0291] Figure 28 This diagram illustrates the use of a washing machine 100, a dryer 200, a terminal device 400, and a server 300 to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0292] refer to Figure 28In system 2800 according to various embodiments, washing machine 100, dryer 200, server 300, and terminal device 400 can communicate with each other. Terminal device 400 can represent a portable device such as a smartphone or tablet. Terminal device 400 can communicate with multiple pre-registered electronic devices. Assuming the pre-registered devices are washing machine 100 and dryer 200, terminal device 400 can receive information from or send information to washing machine 100 and dryer 200.

[0293] Simultaneously, terminal device 400 can communicate with server 300. Terminal device 400 can send information received from washing machine 100 and dryer 200 to server 300. Furthermore, terminal device 400 can send information received from server 300 to washing machine 100 and dryer 200.

[0294] Meanwhile, according to this embodiment, such as Figure 26 As shown in the embodiments, the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 can communicate directly with each other, and as... Figure 15 As shown in the embodiments, the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 can communicate with each other through the server 300. The terminal device 400 can be used to perform specific operations. For example, the terminal device 400 can display a UI or provide notifications.

[0295] For users, using terminal device 400 may be more convenient than choosing a UI on washing machine 100 that is limited by the size of display 210.

[0296] Figure 29 This is a flowchart illustrating the use of a washing machine 100, a dryer 200, a terminal device 400, and a server 300 to perform overall control according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0297] refer to Figure 29 The washing machine 100 can receive a washing program via a first user input (operation 2905). Furthermore, the washing machine 100 can send the washing program information received (input) via the first user input to the terminal device 400 (operation 2910).

[0298] Furthermore, the terminal device 400 can display a UI for overall control based on the received washing program information (operation 2915). Additionally, the terminal device 400 can receive control options via a second user input based on the displayed UI for overall control (operation 2920). Furthermore, the terminal device 400 can send identification information, washing program information, and control option information about the washing machine 100 to the server 300 (operation 2925).

[0299] Server 300 can identify the drying program based on the received washing program information and received control options (operation 2930). Furthermore, server 300 can determine the detailed options for the washing program and the detailed options for the drying program (operation 2935). Additionally, server 300 can obtain identification information about the dryer 200 corresponding to the identification information received from the washing machine 100 (operation 2940).

[0300] Server 300 can send washing program information to washing machine 100 (operation 2945). Furthermore, washing machine 100 can execute a washing program based on the received washing program information (operation 2950).

[0301] Furthermore, server 300 can send drying program information to dryer 200 (operation 2955). Additionally, dryer 200 can schedule a drying program (operation 2960). Furthermore, after the washing program executed in washing machine 100 is completed, dryer 200 can execute the scheduled drying program. Although in Figure 29 The document does not describe how to omit redundant operations, but operations 1650, 1655, 1660, 1665, and 1670 can be applied. Figure 29 Examples of implementations.

[0302] Furthermore, server 300 can send washing program information and drying program information to terminal device 400 (operation 2965). Additionally, terminal device 400 can display the received washing program information and drying program information on its display (operation 2970).

[0303] Figure 30 This is a flowchart illustrating a control method for a washing machine 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0304] refer to Figure 30 The control method of the washing machine 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include displaying a user interface (UI) for overall control of the washing machine 100 and the dryer 200 communicatively connected to the washing machine 100 based on receiving a first user input that selects a washing program (operation 3005).

[0305] Furthermore, the control method may include identifying the drying program of the dryer 200 based on receiving a second user input that selects one of a plurality of control options included in the UI, and based on the washing program selected by the first user input and the control option selected by the second user input (operation 3010). Additionally, the control method may include sending information corresponding to the identified drying program to the dryer 200 (operation 3015).

[0306] Multiple control options can be used for the washing program of the washing machine 100 and the drying program of the dryer 200.

[0307] The control options can be options for at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control.

[0308] Meanwhile, the control method may also include obtaining control information about the selected washing program based on the selected control options, and obtaining the drying program of the dryer 200 and the control information based on the obtained control information.

[0309] When displaying the UI, you can show control information for both the washing and drying programs.

[0310] Additionally, the control method may include providing guidance information for at least one of a plurality of control options included in the recommended UI, based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine 100 or the dryer 200.

[0311] Additionally, the control method may include determining the display order of multiple control options included in the UI based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine 100 or dryer 200.

[0312] Meanwhile, the control options may include options for at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control. The control power corresponding to energy-saving control may be determined based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine 100 or the dryer 200, and the control time corresponding to time-saving control may be determined based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine 100 or the dryer 200.

[0313] Meanwhile, if the drying program of the dryer 200 is identified, the control method may further include identifying detailed options of the drying program based on the selected control options, and sending information including the detailed options of the identified specific drying program to the dryer 200.

[0314] Meanwhile, during the information transmission process (operation 3015), information corresponding to the identified drying program can be sent to the dryer 200 via an external server 300.

[0315] At the same time, such as Figure 30 The control method of the washing machine 100 shown can be controlled by a device having Figure 1 The washing machine 100 with configuration 2 can perform the operation, or it can be performed by an electronic device with another configuration. For example, such as Figure 30 The control method shown can be executed by server 300 instead of washing machine 100.

[0316] Meanwhile, the methods according to the various embodiments disclosed above can be implemented in the form of an application that can be installed on existing washing machines.

[0317] Furthermore, the methods according to the various embodiments disclosed above can be implemented simply by upgrading the software or hardware of existing electronic devices (washing machines).

[0318] Furthermore, the various embodiments disclosed above can be implemented by an embedded server included in an electronic device or an external server of at least one of an electronic device or display device.

[0319] Furthermore, according to various embodiments of this disclosure, the above-described embodiments can be implemented by software including instructions stored in a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a computer-readable storage medium). The machine can be a device that invokes the stored instructions from the storage medium and can operate based on the invoked instructions, and can include electronic devices according to the disclosed embodiments. In embodiments where the processor executes the instructions, the processor can directly execute the function corresponding to the instruction, or it can use other components under the control of the processor to execute the function corresponding to the instruction. The instruction may include code generated or executed by a compiler or interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" means that the storage medium is tangible, does not include signals, and does not distinguish whether data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily in the storage medium.

[0320] Furthermore, according to various embodiments of this disclosure, the methods described above can be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product can be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product can be distributed in the form of a storage medium (e.g., an optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) that can be read by a machine or online via an app store (e.g., PlayStore™). In embodiments of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product can be stored, at least temporarily, in a storage medium such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an app store's server, or a relay server, or can be temporarily generated.

[0321] Furthermore, each component (e.g., module or program) according to the various embodiments described above may include a single entity or multiple entities, and some of the corresponding sub-components may be omitted, or other sub-components may be further included in the various embodiments. Alternatively or additionally, some components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into one entity, and may perform the functions performed by the corresponding components before being integrated in the same or similar manner. Operations performed by modules, programs, or other components according to the various embodiments may be performed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, and at least some operations may be performed in a different order or omitted, or other operations may be added.

[0322] Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, but various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure as disclosed in the appended claims. These modifications should also be understood to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0323] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to various embodiments, various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. This disclosure is intended to include such changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising: monitor; The communication interface is configured to communicate with the dryer; and processor, The processor is configured as follows: The user interface (UI) for overall control of the washing machine and dryer is controlled by receiving the first user input selecting the washing program. Receives a second user input for selecting a control option from among multiple control options included in the UI. The drying program of the dryer is identified based on the washing program selected by the first user and the control options selected by the second user. The control interface sends information corresponding to the identified drying program to the dryer, wherein the multiple control options apply to both the washing program of the washing machine and the drying program of the dryer.

2. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the control option is an option for at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control.

3. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: Based on the selected control options, obtain control information about the selected washing program, and Based on the selected control options and the control information obtained about the selected washing program, the drying program of the dryer and the control information about the drying program are obtained.

4. The washing machine of claim 3, wherein the processor is further configured to control the display to show a UI including control information about the washing program and control information about the drying program.

5. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to control the provision of guidance information recommending at least one of a plurality of control options included in the UI based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine or the dryer.

6. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to determine the display order of a plurality of control options included in the UI based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machine or dryer.

7. The washing machine as claimed in claim 1, wherein: The control options include options for at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control. The control power corresponding to energy-saving control is determined based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machines or dryers, and The control time corresponding to the time-saving control is determined based on user history associated with at least one of the washing machines or dryers.

8. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein if a drying program of the dryer is identified, the processor is further configured to: The detailed options for the drying program are identified based on the selected control options, and Information including detailed options for the identified drying program is sent to the dryer.

9. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to control information corresponding to the identified drying program to be sent to the dryer via an external server.

10. A control method for a washing machine, the control method comprising: Based on the first user input that selects a washing program, a user interface (UI) is displayed for overall control of the washing machine and the dryer communicatively connected to the washing machine. Receive a second user input for selecting a control option from among multiple control options included in the UI; The drying program of the dryer is identified based on the washing program selected by the first user and the control options selected by the second user. as well as The information corresponding to the identified drying program is sent to the dryer. The aforementioned multiple control options apply to both the washing program of the washing machine and the drying program of the dryer.

11. The control method of claim 10, wherein the control option is an option for at least one of energy-saving control, general control, or time-saving control.

12. The control method as described in claim 10, further comprising: Based on the selected control options, obtain control information about the selected washing program; as well as Based on the selected control options and the control information obtained about the selected washing program, the drying program of the dryer and the control information about the drying program are obtained.

13. The control method of claim 12, wherein the display UI includes displaying a UI that includes control information about the washing program and control information about the drying program.

14. A computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon that, when executed, perform the method as described in any one of claims 10-13.

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