Method and apparatus for reducing shedding of microfibers from laundry in washing machine

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for reducing shedding of microfibers from laundry in a washing machine are disclosed. The present disclosure relates to a method for reducing shedding of microfibers from laundry during a washing cycle of a washing machine (100). The method includes receiving (312) a fabric type user input specifying a fabric type of laundry placed in the washing machine; determining (332) a fabric type of the laundry in the washing machine; calculating (352) a risk level based on the fabric type user input and the determined fabric type, the risk level indicating a risk that the microfibers may fall off from the garment during the wash cycle; and if the risk level is determined to be high, outputting (376) information indicative of performing a dedicated wash cycle specially adapted to reduce microfiber shedding. The present disclosure further relates to a washing system, a mobile terminal, and a washing machine, respectively configured to perform the method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a method for reducing microfiber shedding from clothes during a washing cycle of a washing machine. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a method for reducing microfiber shedding from clothes by determining a risk level of microfiber shedding based on a fabric type input by a user and a determined fabric type. In addition, the present disclosure further relates to a mobile terminal and a washing machine configured to perform such a method. Background Art

[0002] Recently, microfibers shed from clothing during the wash cycle have attracted research interest, as they are washed away with wastewater and thus enter the environment. In particular, if clothing contains synthetic fibers, these microfibers are non-organic materials that form microplastics. In particular, microplastics can be particles smaller than 5 mm.

[0003] Conventional washing machines can be equipped with filters to reduce the amount of such microfibers in waste water. However, the user must replace the filter regularly. If filter replacement is postponed or forgotten, the amount of microfibers in waste water may increase, or the washing machine must be programmed not to run a wash cycle until a new filter is installed.

[0004] However, this is cumbersome for the user or may lead to a lack of acceptance of such devices if, for example, a filter change has to be performed before a wash cycle can start. Summary of the invention

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present disclosure to provide a method and apparatus for reducing microfibers during a wash cycle.

[0006] This object is solved by the invention as defined in the independent claim. The dependent claims define preferred embodiments.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a method for reducing microfiber shedding from clothing during a wash cycle of a washing machine includes: receiving a fabric type user input specifying a fabric type of clothing placed in the washing machine; determining the fabric type of the clothing in the washing machine; and calculating a risk level based on the fabric type user input and the determined fabric type, the risk level indicating a risk that microfibers may be shed from the clothing during the wash cycle.

[0008] The method further comprises: if the risk level is determined to be high, outputting information instructing to perform a dedicated wash cycle specifically adapted to reduce microfiber shedding. A dedicated wash cycle may be employed to reduce the amount of microfiber shedding.

[0009] By way of example only, it may be determined that the risk level is above a first threshold, indicating that there is a high risk of microfiber shedding. Alternatively, a low risk level may be distinguished from a high risk level by using a lookup table. For example, the lookup table may include risk values ​​or groups of risk values, each mapped to a risk type, such as low risk or high risk. Thus, when a particular input risk level is looked up in the lookup table, the result / output may indicate, for example, a low risk or a high risk of microfiber shedding.

[0010] Specifically, the user input may include entering or selecting a particular fabric type by the user, such as nylon, polyester, wool, linen, spandex, elastomer, cotton, acrylic, etc. As an example only, the user may select a particular fabric type from a predefined list. It should be understood that the user input may include entering or selecting multiple fabric types, such as if clothes of different fabric types are placed in the drum of a washing machine for the next wash cycle.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally, the user input may include entry or selection by the user of a fabric group, such as organic or non-organic clothing; or any other predefined fabric group, including numbers or letters (1, 2, 3, etc.; A, B, C, etc.), which predefined fabric group may be interpreted as clothing including one or more fabric types.

[0012] Also alternatively or additionally, the user input may include entry or selection by the user of a wash cycle type, such as cold wash, color care wash, hot wash, delicate wash, etc.

[0013] The user input may be understood as the user's intention to start a specific wash cycle corresponding to the received fabric type. However, the user selection may result in increased microfiber shedding, although this was not the user's intention. It is very likely that the user does not know how to reduce microfiber shedding during the wash cycle. Therefore, the user input is checked against the determined fabric type and the risk (level) of an inappropriate wash cycle is calculated. Based on the risk level, the wash cycle may be changed, i.e. the user input may be overruled.

[0014] This allows to reduce microfiber shedding, i.e. the amount of microfibers that are flushed away with the waste water. Such microfibers from laundry can be fiber particles / fractions as small as 25 μm in size, and even fiber particles / fractions as small as 1.2 μm in size. Since the wash cycle is optimized for minimal microfiber emission, the method further allows to extend the life of any microfiber filter or other filter mechanism employed during the wash cycle. For example, the disclosed method can allow the life of the filter to be extended by 50% to 70%, since the filter will not get clogged as quickly as in a regular wash cycle.

[0015] Merely as an example, the risk level may be determined as low or high, or may correspond to a certain value from 0 to 10 or from 0 to 100, such as 0, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 80, 100, etc., where 0 means (almost) no risk and 10 / 100 means a very high risk of microfiber emission (resulting in a large amount of microfiber emission). A low risk level may be distinguished from a high risk level by a first threshold value or by using a lookup table. For example, if the risk level is above a threshold value, there is a high risk of microfiber shedding, i.e. it is quite likely that the amount of microfiber shedding will be high. The first threshold value may depend on the kind of risk level determination. For example, if the risk level is determined based on a scale from 0 to 100, the first threshold value may be set between 25 and 75, preferably between 40 and 60. Such a risk level determination may alternatively be achieved by a corresponding predefined lookup table.

[0016] In an embodiment variant, the method may further comprise receiving a hardness user input specifying the water hardness of the water supplied to the washing machine. Calculating the risk level may then comprise calculating a risk contribution caused by the specified water hardness. The risk contribution may affect the overall risk (level) that microfibres may be shed from the laundry during the wash cycle.

[0017] The risk contribution may increase or decrease the risk level. In the specific example of water hardness, it has been found that higher water hardness values ​​reduce the amount or number of microfibers generated during the wash cycle. Therefore, a high water hardness value (hard water) may contribute little to the risk level (e.g., 0, 20 or 30 points on a 0..100 scale). Alternatively, even a negative risk contribution value may be used to reduce the risk level. A medium hardness of water may contribute to the risk level by, for example, an amount of 40, 50 or 60 points on a 0..100 scale, and a small water hardness value (soft water) may contribute more to the risk level (e.g., 90 or 100 points on a 0..100 scale). It should be understood that the risk contribution may also be on a 0..10 scale, for example, where hard water may be represented by a value such as 2, medium water (hardness) may be represented by a value such as 5, and soft water may be represented by a value such as 10.

[0018] In yet another embodiment variation, the method may further include receiving a detergent user input specifying the type of detergent used in the washing cycle of the washing machine. Calculating the risk level may then include calculating the risk contribution caused by the specified detergent that affects the risk level. By way of example only, the detergent type may identify a heavy duty detergent (HDD), a light duty detergent (LDD), a non-biodegradable detergent, or a biodegradable detergent. For example, it has been found that light duty detergents reduce the amount or number of microfibers generated during the washing cycle, whereas not using detergent and using HDDs increase microfiber emissions. Therefore, an input indicating LDD may contribute little to the risk level (e.g., 0, 20, or 50 points on a 0..100 scale; or 5 points on a 0..10 scale), while an input indicating HDD or no detergent may contribute more to the risk level (e.g., 90 or 100 points on a 0..100 scale; or 10 points on a 0..10 scale). Alternatively, in the case of LDD, the risk level may even be reduced.

[0019] In yet another embodiment variant, the method may further comprise determining the load weight of the laundry placed in the washing machine. In this case, calculating the risk level comprises calculating the risk contribution affecting the risk level caused by the determined load weight. For example, it has been found that low loads increase microfiber emissions. Low load means, for example, equal to or less than 25% of the maximum load of the washing machine (quarter load). This may correspond, for example, to 0 to 2 kg of laundry. Thus, low load weight values ​​may contribute greatly to the risk level (e.g., 80, 90 or even 100 points on a 0..100 scale), while medium loads (25% to 50%; half load) contribute less to the risk level (e.g., 40 or 50 points on a 0..100 scale), and high load weights (50% to 100%; full load) contribute minimally or zero to the risk level (e.g., 0, 5 or 10 points).

[0020] Alternatively, the risk level depending on the load weight may be determined by using a lookup table. For example, the lookup table may include a risk value or a group of risk values, each mapped to a risk type, such as low risk or high risk. Additionally, the lookup table may include a load weight value or a group of load weight values, each mapped to a load range, such as quarter load, half load or full load, or such as 0-500g, 500-1000g, 1000-1500g, etc. (up to the maximum load capacity of the washing machine). Thus, when a specific input risk level (with or without risk contribution(s)) and a determined load weight are input / sent to the lookup table, the output may indicate a low risk or a high risk of microfiber shedding.

[0021] In another embodiment variant, the risk contribution caused by water hardness and / or specified detergent and / or determined load weight can be weighted. In particular, a weighting such as factorization can be applied to the risk contribution(s).

[0022] Merely by way of example, when continuing in a 0..100 scale, the weight of each of the risk contributions may be between 0.1 and 0.3 on the 0..100 scale, preferably 0.2; or between 1 and 3 on the 0..10 scale, preferably 2. In any case, the total risk is the weighted sum of the risk contribution(s) plus the risk level.

[0023] Alternatively, the risk level based on fabric type and the risk contribution caused by water hardness and / or specified detergent and / or determined load weight may be weighted. In particular, weighting such as factorization may be applied to the risk level and the risk contribution(s).

[0024] This can include weighting the risk level higher than the risk contribution. In other words, the fabric type has a greater impact on the resulting total risk than other influences such as water hardness, detergent or load.

[0025] Merely by way of example, the weight of the risk level (based on fabric type) may be between 0.4 and 0.8, preferably 0.6, on a 0..100 scale; or between 4 and 8, preferably 6, on a 0..10 scale (when continuing in the 0..100 scale), and the weight of each of the risk contributions may be between 0.1 and 0.3, preferably 0.2, on a 0..100 scale, or between 1 and 3, preferably 2, on a 0..10 scale. Thus, the total risk is the weighted sum of a single risk level and multiple risk contributions. Furthermore, if the risk level and / or risk contribution(s) are determined using a 0..10 scale, a weighting factor may be employed to bring the resulting risk level value to the 0..100 scale, the latter being compared to a threshold value or used as an input to a lookup table.

[0026] It will be appreciated that if no weighting is implemented, the above values ​​of risk level and / or risk contribution may be set smaller. For example, each of these specified values ​​may be reduced by a factor corresponding to the respectively mentioned weight.

[0027] In another embodiment variant, determining the fabric type of the clothes includes determining the water absorption of the clothes. For example, the water absorption of the clothes can be determined by controlling the washing machine to open the water inlet to supply water to the clothes / wet the clothes.

[0028] By way of example only, when the laundry is dry, the laundry load may be weighed or virtually determined. Then, the water inlet is opened and the laundry is wetted. This allows the load of wet laundry to be weighed or virtually determined. The fabric type may be calculated based on the difference between the dry load and the wet load. This may include using another lookup table including a mapping between load difference(s) and laundry type. It will be appreciated that a combination of lookup tables may be used.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, the water inlet may be opened for a predefined period during which the water level in an empty washing machine (particularly in the drum of a washing machine without laundry) is known. Depending on the fibers of the laundry, a certain amount of water is absorbed, so that the water level may be different depending on the type of fabric in the washing machine.

[0030] Also alternatively or additionally, the absorbency of the laundry may be determined by sensing the weight of the load in the drum of the washing machine.

[0031] Opening the water inlet and determining the laundry load can be performed several times in succession. This allows the water absorption to be determined and analyzed over time and in specific steps.

[0032] In a variant embodiment, determining the fabric type of the laundry may include controlling the washing machine to operate the drum of the washing machine. This allows the laundry to be moved so that all of the laundry is wet and absorbs water. Thus, the fabric type can be determined more accurately.

[0033] In another embodiment variant, determining the fabric type of the laundry can include detecting and analyzing the power required by the motor to rotate the drum. In particular, the greater the power required by the motor to operate the drum, the heavier the laundry.

[0034] As just an example, the required motor power may also be analyzed in conjunction with the water supply to the laundry.

[0035] In yet another embodiment variant, the risk level depending on the fabric type of the garment (depending on the garment type) can be set to low, medium or high, or can be set to a certain value such as 20, 50, 80, 100, etc., where 0 means (almost) no risk and 100 means a very high risk of microfiber emission (resulting in a large amount of microfiber emission).

[0036] Merely as an example, if it is determined that the fabric type is cotton (or most of the clothes seem to be cotton), a small risk level value is set, for example, 0, 2, 5 or 10 points on a 0..100 scale, or 0 or 2 points on a 0..10 scale. In the case of synthetic fabrics, a higher risk level value is set, for example, 10, 15 or even 20 points on a 0..100 scale, or 5, 6 or even 10 points on a 0..10 scale. A medium risk level value may be set between the above values ​​for low risk and the above values ​​for high risk.

[0037] It will be appreciated that if no weighting / factoring were implemented, all of these values ​​could be set higher, such as double or triple the given value.

[0038] In another embodiment variant, the method may further comprise: if the risk level is determined to be low, outputting information indicating that a wash cycle is to be performed according to the fabric type specified in the fabric type user input. For example, it may be determined that the risk level is below a first threshold (or the output of the lookup table indicates a small risk value), which indicates that there is a low risk of microfiber shedding. In particular, the user input may be understood as the user's intention to initiate a specific wash cycle corresponding to the received fabric type. If the risk level is determined to be low, information indicating that the specific wash cycle is to be performed may be output.

[0039] In yet another embodiment variation, the method may further comprise: if the risk level is determined to be medium, outputting information instructing to perform a modified wash cycle, the modified wash cycle being a wash cycle in which one or more wash parameters are modified according to the fabric type specified in the fabric type user input. Thus, the user's desire to wash the laundry according to a particular wash cycle may be partially satisfied, but certain wash parameters are adapted to minimize microfiber emissions.

[0040] For example, the risk level can be compared with a second threshold value (lower than the first threshold value). Therefore, if the risk level (value) is between the first and second threshold values, the risk level is determined to be medium. If the risk level (value) is lower than the second threshold value, the risk level is determined to be low.

[0041] Alternatively, low, medium and high risk levels may be distinguished by using a lookup table. For example, the lookup table may include risk values ​​or risk value groups, each risk value or risk value group being mapped to a risk type, such as low risk, medium risk or high risk. Thus, when a specific input risk level value (with or without risk contribution(s)) is input / sent to the lookup table, the output may indicate a low, medium or high risk of microfiber shedding.

[0042] By way of example only, the one or more modified wash parameters may include an adjusted water temperature and / or an adjusted spin speed of the washing machine drum. Alternatively or additionally, the adjusted one or more modified wash parameters may further include a water level, a duration of a wash cycle, and / or the number of agitation and / or rinse sub-cycles.

[0043] In yet another embodiment variant, the water temperature may be adjusted by setting the maximum water temperature to 40° C., and / or the rotation speed may be adjusted by setting the maximum speed to 800 rpm.

[0044] In yet another embodiment variant, the method may further comprise outputting a user message to the user that the microfiber filter of the washing machine needs to be cleaned or replaced. Outputting the user message may comprise a visual indication and / or a sound output and / or a message transmission (e.g. via telecommunication means, such as a text message on a mobile phone and / or an application executed on the mobile phone that presents information to the user).

[0045] For example, outputting a user message may be based on a change in the power consumption of a pump motor driving a water pump of a washing machine. As the filter becomes increasingly clogged, the power consumption of the pump motor will, for example, decrease. Thus, if the power (e.g., the current of the electric pump motor) changes (e.g., compared to a predefined threshold), it may be assumed that the microfiber filter has become less effective and should be replaced. Thus, a change in power (including a change in power over time) may trigger the output of the message.

[0046] In another embodiment variant, outputting information indicating the execution of a wash cycle, a modified wash cycle or a dedicated wash cycle comprises outputting a corresponding user message and / or transmitting a corresponding signal to the washing machine to execute the corresponding wash cycle. In other words, outputting information indicating the execution of a wash cycle generally means outputting a signal and / or data that can be interpreted by the receiving device. Depending on the type of receiving device, the message may be output to the user (e.g., in the case where the receiving device has a display and / or audio output means).

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, if the receiving device is a washing machine, the washing machine may execute the indicated washing cycle. By way of example only, the washing cycle parameters and / or an identifier of the selected washing cycle may be indicated to the washing machine together with the output information, i.e. may be transmitted in a signal associated with indicating the execution of the washing cycle. It will be appreciated that if the washing machine is equipped with associated output means, the washing machine may likewise output a message to the user that the washing cycle will be executed or performed.

[0048] In yet another embodiment variation, a dedicated wash cycle to reduce microfiber shedding may include one or more of the following parameters:

[0049] - Initial water filling range of 20 to 25 liters,

[0050] - agitation speed range of 30 rpm to 35 rpm during initial water filling,

[0051] - water temperatures up to 40°C (e.g. for washing clothes),

[0052] - a stirring speed range of 50 rpm to 55 rpm during the secondary water injection, preferably for 2 to 6 minutes (i.e., a stirring duration of 2 to 6 minutes), more preferably for 4 to 6 minutes,

[0053] - a stirring speed ranging from 50 rpm to 55 rpm during heating of the water, preferably for 4 to 8 minutes,

[0054] - a rotation speed between 200 and 600 rpm, preferably 400 rpm (e.g. during the drainage phase),

[0055] -20 to 25 litres of secondary or subsequent water filling range,

[0056] - an agitation speed range of 50 to 55 rpm during washing, preferably for 2 to 4 minutes (e.g. during the first or subsequent washing sessions),

[0057] - a stirring speed range of 50 rpm to 55 rpm during rinsing, preferably for 2 to 4 minutes, and

[0058] - A rotation speed between 400 rpm and 800 rpm.

[0059] It should be understood that the present disclosure explicitly encompasses all possible combinations of one or more of the above parameters to implement a dedicated wash cycle. Therefore, the present disclosure is neither limited to the number of parameters in the above list nor to the order of the parameters in the list.

[0060] In addition, a dedicated wash cycle may include one or more wash cycle subcategories, each category being comprised of one or more of the above parameters. For example, a dedicated wash cycle may be categorized as wash, drain, rinse, and / or final spin. Thus, different phases of a wash cycle may be determined and set based on one or more of these parameters to implement a dedicated wash cycle.

[0061] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a washing system comprises: one or more processors; and one or more memories, the one or more memories being configured to store processor executable instructions, which, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the washing system to perform a method according to the first aspect or one of its variant embodiments. In particular, the washing system may perform the method of the first aspect, a method according to one of the variant embodiments of the first aspect, a method according to an example of the first aspect, or any combination thereof.

[0062] In an embodiment variant, the washing system may include a mobile terminal and / or a washing machine. One or more processors may be installed in the mobile terminal, installed in the washing machine, or may be distributed on the mobile terminal and the washing machine. Therefore, the washing system may execute the method of the first aspect, one of its embodiment variants and / or examples, or a combination thereof, only on the mobile terminal, only on the washing machine, or on the mobile terminal and the washing machine that interact with each other (e.g., in a distributed manner). For example, some method steps may be performed by the mobile terminal, while other method steps are performed by the washing machine.

[0063] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a mobile terminal includes: a processor; and a memory, the memory being configured to store processor executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, configure the mobile terminal to execute a method according to the first aspect or one of its implementation variations. In particular, the mobile terminal may execute the method of the first aspect, a method according to one of the implementation variations of the first aspect, a method according to an example of the first aspect, or any combination thereof.

[0064] As an example only, the mobile terminal may execute a program (application) configured to execute the method of the first aspect or one of its implementation variations. The execution screen of such a program may be displayed on the display screen of the mobile terminal to request user input, indicate risk level, indicate washing cycle, indicate modification of washing cycle, etc.

[0065] In a variant embodiment, the mobile terminal may further include a communication unit configured to communicate with the washing machine. Such a communication unit may operate according to any wireless or wired communication protocol. As an example only, the mobile terminal and the washing machine may communicate with each other via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (WLAN), near field communication, etc.

[0066] Alternatively or additionally, the communication unit may operate according to telecommunication standard data protocols based on, for example, GSM, 3G, LTE, 5G, etc. In this case, the communication unit may indicate any information and / or data to the server, and the washing machine is equipped with a corresponding communication unit to receive information and / or data from the server.

[0067] It will be appreciated that bidirectional communication may be achieved between the mobile terminal and the washing machine, either directly or via a server. This allows status information to be transmitted from the washing machine to the mobile terminal. By way of example only, the washing machine may be configured to determine the fabric type of the laundry in the washing machine and send information and / or data to the mobile terminal that allows the mobile terminal to determine the fabric type of the laundry in the washing machine.

[0068] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine comprises: a washing drum; a controller; a user input unit configured to receive user input; and a memory configured to store computer executable instructions, which, when executed by the controller, configure the washing machine to perform the method of the first aspect or one of its implementation variations. In particular, the washing machine can perform the method of the first aspect, the method according to one of the implementation variations of the first aspect, the method according to the example of the first aspect, or any combination thereof.

[0069] By way of example only, a washing machine may include a user interface such as a display and user input devices, such as buttons and / or a touch screen. This allows the washing machine to receive user input, particularly fabric type user input, and output information to the user in a visual and / or audible manner.

[0070] In a variant embodiment, the washing machine may further include a load sensor configured to weigh the load of the drum, and / or a water level sensor configured to detect the water level in the drum. These sensors may be used alone or in combination to determine the fabric type of the laundry in the washing drum. Merely as an example, the water level sensor may be used to determine the water absorption of the laundry in the washing drum, which allows the fabric type of the laundry in the washing drum to be determined.

[0071] In yet another embodiment variation, the controller may be configured to calculate the load of the laundry in the drum by determining the current and / or torque of the motor driving the drum. For example, the heavier the laundry (dry vs. wet), the more power is required to move the drum. Therefore, the controller may implement a virtual load sensor, i.e., avoid installing an actual / physical load sensor.

[0072] According to a fifth aspect, a computer program product is provided. The computer program product comprises program code portions for executing the method of the first aspect when the computer program product is executed on one or more computing devices (e.g., a processor or a distributed processor group). The computer program product may be stored on a computer-readable recording medium such as a semiconductor memory, a DVD, a CD-ROM, etc.

[0073] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine control unit configured to control components of a washing machine to perform a dedicated washing cycle specifically adapted to reduce microfiber shedding comprises: a processor; a component interface configured to connect to at least one component of the washing machine and transmit a control signal to the at least one component; and a memory configured to store processor executable instructions. When executing the processor executable instructions stored in the memory, the processor is configured to receive user input to apply a dedicated washing cycle specifically adapted to reduce microfiber shedding, and configure the component interface to transmit a control signal to the at least one component to perform the dedicated washing cycle.

[0074] The at least one component may include a washing drum, a water inlet (valve), a pump configured to deliver water to the interior of the washing machine and / or a waste water outlet, a motor to drive the washing drum, a heater to heat the water in the washing machine, and a detergent feeder configured to release detergent into the water inside the washing machine.

[0075] In an embodiment variation, the memory may be further configured to store additional processor executable instructions which, when executed by the processor, configure the component interface to transmit a control signal to at least one component to perform a dedicated wash cycle according to wash parameters, the wash parameters comprising:

[0076] - Maximum water temperature of 40°C,

[0077] - a stirring speed ranging from 50 rpm to 55 rpm during heating of the water, preferably for 4 to 8 minutes,

[0078] - an agitation speed range of 50 to 55 rpm during washing, preferably for 2 to 4 minutes,

[0079] - a stirring speed range of 50 rpm to 55 rpm during rinsing, preferably for 2 to 4 minutes, and

[0080] - A rotation speed between 400 rpm and 800 rpm.

[0081] It should be understood that the present disclosure explicitly encompasses all possible combinations of one or more of the above wash parameters to implement a dedicated wash cycle. Therefore, the present disclosure is neither limited to the number of parameters in the above list nor to the order of the parameters in the list.

[0082] In an embodiment variation, the memory may be further configured to store additional processor executable instructions which, when executed by the processor, configure the component interface to transmit control signals to the at least one component to perform a dedicated wash cycle according to further wash parameters, the wash parameters comprising:

[0083] -20L to 25L initial water filling range,

[0084] -20 to 25 litres of secondary or subsequent water filling range,

[0085] - agitation speed range of 30 rpm to 35 rpm during initial water filling,

[0086] - a rotation speed between 200 rpm and 600 rpm, preferably 400 rpm (e.g. during the drainage phase), and

[0087] - A stirring speed range of 50 to 55 rpm, preferably for 2 to 6 minutes, more preferably for 4 to 6 minutes, during an intermediate water filling, which occurs after the initial water filling and before the flushing.

[0088] It should be understood that the present disclosure explicitly encompasses all possible combinations of one or more of the above wash parameters (of both embodiment variants) to implement a dedicated wash cycle. Therefore, the present disclosure is neither limited to the number of parameters in the above list nor to the order of the parameters in the list.

[0089] In addition, a dedicated wash cycle may include one or more wash cycle subcategories, each category being comprised of one or more of the above parameters. For example, a dedicated wash cycle may be categorized as wash, drain, rinse, and / or final spin. Thus, different phases of a wash cycle may be determined and set based on one or more of these parameters to implement a dedicated wash cycle.

[0090] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine comprises the washing machine control unit of the sixth aspect or one of its embodiment variations.

[0091] The present disclosure is not limited to the aspects and variations in the described form and order. Specifically, the description of each aspect and each variation should not be understood as a specific restrictive grouping of features. It should be understood that the present disclosure also encompasses the combination of these aspects and variations. Therefore, each variation or optional feature can be combined with any other aspect, variation, optional feature or even combination thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0092] In the following, the present disclosure will be further described with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0093] Figure 1 A washing machine and a user terminal are schematically illustrated;

[0094] Figure 2 schematically illustrates an exemplary method for reducing microfiber shedding from clothing during a wash cycle; and

[0095] Figure 3Another exemplary method for reducing microfiber shedding from clothing during a wash cycle is schematically illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0096] In the following description, for purposes of explanation rather than limitation, specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure can be practiced in other embodiments that depart from these specific details.

[0097] Figure 1 A washing machine 100 and a user terminal 150, which may together form a washing system, are schematically illustrated. Such a washing system may consist of only the washing machine 100 in which the functions described in the present disclosure with respect to the user terminal 150 are integrated.

[0098] Washing machine 100 includes a washing drum 132 into which clothes can be placed for a washing cycle. Drum 132 or a sump (not explicitly shown) in which drum 132 is mounted can be filled with water through a water inlet 142, such as a hose or other source. Water inlet 142 can be controlled via a water inlet valve 144. A water level sensor 105 can detect the water level in drum 132 or the sump. A load sensor 103 configured to weigh the load of drum 132 can be provided. Thus, the weight of clothes loaded into drum 132 can be weighed.

[0099] The drum 132 can be moved, in particular rotated. This can be achieved by a drive motor 136 mechanically coupled to the drum 132. Therefore, the drive motor 136 is equivalent to driving or rotating the drum 132.

[0100] A pump 134 may be provided to circulate water from the drum 132 or the sump and back. For example, a filter (not explicitly shown) may be arranged in a conduit connected to the pump 134 so that particles in the water can be filtered out. Waste water may be removed from the drum 132 or the sump through the outlet 146. Figure 1 As shown in , the water outlet 146 can be connected to the outlet of the pump 134, so that the pump can be further configured to pump out waste water from the drum 132 or the sump. It should be understood that if necessary, the water outlet 146 can also be equipped with a valve (not explicitly shown).

[0101] The washing machine 100 further includes a controller 104, a user input unit 120 configured to receive user input, and a memory 108 configured to store computer executable instructions. These instructions can be loaded and executed by the controller 104 to perform a washing cycle, as will be described with reference to FIG. Figure 2 or as 3 explains in more detail.

[0102] The controller 104 may be part of a washing machine control unit 101, which is configured to control components of the washing machine 100, such as the drum 132 (e.g., via the motor 136), the pump 134, the water inlet 142 and / or the valve 144, and the water outlet 146. The washing machine control unit 101 may include a component interface 110 configured to couple with at least one of the components 132, 134, 136, 142, 144, 146 of the washing machine 100 and transmit control signals to the at least one component. For the sake of clarity of the drawings, signal lines connecting the component interface 100 with at least one component 132, 134, 136, 142, 144, 146 have been omitted.

[0103] The washing machine 100, such as the washing machine control unit 101, may further include a communication unit 106. The communication unit 106 allows wireless and / or wired communication with another device. As an example only, the communication unit 106 may be configured to transmit and receive signals and data via the network 200. In addition, the server 210 may be connected to the network 200, so that data communication can be achieved between the washing machine 100 and the server 210 via the communication unit 106.

[0104] In addition, the washing machine 100 further includes a user input unit 120 . Figure 1 A knob or button 122 is illustrated representing only one possibility of a user input device. It will be appreciated that more than one button 122 may be provided in the user input unit 120. This includes one or more keys, soft buttons etc. as well as a touch screen.

[0105] The washing machine 100 may further include a user output unit 125. The user output unit may include an indicator device, such as one or more lights, displays, speakers, buzzers, etc. Such an indicator device may be used to provide information to the user in a visual and / or auditory manner. The user output unit 125 may be combined with the user input unit 120 or may be spatially integrated therein. As an example only, a touch screen that combines the functions of the user input unit 120 and the user output unit 125 may be used.

[0106] The user input unit 120 and / or the user output unit 125 may be connected to the washing machine control unit 101, such as to the processor 104. Thus, the processor 104 may be configured to receive user input from the user input unit 120 and may further be configured to output or indicate information to the user via the user output unit 125. By way of example only, the user input may be a user's fabric type selection, while the user output may be information of a wash cycle, such as the start or other status of a wash cycle.

[0107] In addition, the washing machine control unit 101, such as the processor 104, may be connected to sensors of the washing machine 100, such as the load sensor 103 and / or the water level sensor 105. Thus, the washing machine control unit 101 may receive a signal indicating the weight of the drum 132 and / or the water level in the drum 132 or the sump, and may process the received signal to control at least one component 132, 134, 136, 142, 144, 146 of the washing machine 100 based on the received signal and / or the processed signal.

[0108] In addition, the controller 104 can be configured to calculate the load of the clothes in the drum 132 by determining the current and / or torque of the motor 136 driving the drum 132. For example, the heavier the clothes (dry and wet), the greater the power required to move the drum 132. Therefore, the controller 104 can implement a virtual load sensor, that is, avoid installing an actual / physical load sensor 103. In addition, the controller 104 can further inject water into the drum 132 (for example, by opening the valve 144) so ​​that the clothes absorb water. By knowing the amount of water added to the washing machine 100, the weight of the clothes can be determined virtually by the controller 104.

[0109] Figure 1 Further illustrated is a mobile terminal 150, such as a handheld device, mobile phone, tablet, laptop, etc. The mobile terminal 150 may be configured to communicate with the washing machine 100 and control at least one function of the washing machine 100. Some details of the mobile terminal 150 are highlighted between the dotted lines. For example, the mobile terminal 150 includes a processor 153 and a memory 155 configured to store processor-executable instructions. These instructions may be executed by the processor 153 and configure the processor 153, and thus the mobile terminal 150, to perform certain operations related to the washing machine 100, which will be referred to in detail below. Figure 2 or 3 explain that specific operation in more detail.

[0110] In addition, the mobile terminal 150 may include a communication unit 154 configured to communicate with the washing machine 100. The communication unit 154 allows wireless and / or wired communication with another device. By way of example only, the communication unit 154 may be configured to transmit and receive signals and data via the network 200. For example, data communication may be implemented between the mobile terminal 150 and the server 210 via the network 200. If the washing machine 100 is also connected to the network 200, in particular the server 210, data communication may be implemented between the washing machine 100 and the mobile terminal 150 via the associated communication units 106, 154. It should be understood that direct communication between the mobile terminal 150 and the washing machine 100 may also be implemented via the communication units 154 and 106.

[0111] Figure 2Schematically illustrated is a flow chart of a method for reducing microfiber shedding from laundry in a dedicated wash cycle of a washing machine 100. The dedicated wash cycle is the result of a Spanish funded project called the "Fiber Wash Project". The method may be executed by a processor 153 of a mobile terminal 150 and / or a controller 104 of a washing machine 100. For example, computer executable instructions or processor executable instructions stored in respective memories 155, 108 may configure the mobile terminal 150 and / or the washing machine 100 to perform at least some of the method or method steps, such that interoperability between the mobile terminal 150 and the washing machine 100 is achieved.

[0112] In a first step 312, a fabric type user input is received specifying the fabric type of the laundry placed in the washing machine 100, in particular in the drum 132. The fabric type may be input by the user via a user input unit (not explicitly shown) of the mobile terminal 150 or via the user input unit 120 of the washing machine 100, depending on which device performs the method.

[0113] The user may directly input one or more fabric types of the laundry to be placed in the drum 132. Alternatively, the user is presented with a list of possible fabric types from which the user may select one or more.

[0114] In optional receiving steps 314 and 316, a hardness user input and a detergent user input may be received, respectively. The hardness user input specifies the water hardness of the water provided to the washing machine. For example, the user may obtain corresponding information from a water supplier, etc., and enter the information via a user input unit. The hardness user input may be a water hardness value. The water hardness may not change frequently, so that the optional receiving step 314 may be performed only once, at long intervals (e.g., every year or every other year), or not at all. The detergent user input specifies the type of detergent used in the (next) washing cycle of the washing machine. The detergent user input may refer to HDD, LDD, biodegradable detergent, non-biodegradable detergent, etc. User input steps 314 and 316 may be performed at the user input unit of the mobile terminal 150 and / or performed via the user input unit 120 of the washing machine 100.

[0115] The method continues with calculating risk contributions in step 353 and optionally in steps 356 and 358. For example, the risk contribution due to the fabric type user input may be calculated in step 353. If the user inputs in steps 314 and / or 316, the risk contribution due to the specified water hardness may be calculated in step 354, and / or the risk contribution due to the specified detergent may be calculated in step 356. Thus, a risk contribution is calculated for each user input value.

[0116] For example, the risk contribution may be any value in a certain range, such as a value between 0 and 10 or between 0 and 100. By way of example only, the risk contribution value may be 0, 2, 5, 10 (or any value in between) or 0, 10, 20, 50, 80, 100 (or any value in between), where 0 means (almost) no risk and 10 / 100 means a very high risk of microfiber shedding.

[0117] Furthermore, in step 359, the risk contribution(s) may be weighted. Furthermore, the weighted risk contribution(s) may be summed, i.e., a weighted sum is calculated. For example, the risk contribution due to the fabric type user input may receive a higher weight because it has a greater impact on the actual amount of microfibers shed. By way of example only, the risk contribution due to the fabric type user input may be weighted to form a weighted sum of 60%, while the risk contributions due to the specified water hardness and the specified detergent may each be weighted to form a weighted sum of 20%.

[0118] return Figure 2 , the method further includes determining the fabric type in step 332. The fabric type of the laundry in the washing machine 100 is determined by the washing machine 100. The fabric type is processed by the controller 104 of the washing machine 100 or transmitted to the mobile terminal 150 via the communication units 106 and 154, where the fabric type is processed by the processor 153. Alternatively or additionally, the washing machine 100 provides sensor information to the mobile terminal 150, so that the mobile terminal 150 can determine the fabric type of the laundry based on the sensor information.

[0119] The washing machine 100 can determine the fabric type by different means. For example, determining the fabric type can include controlling the washing machine to open the water inlet 142 in step 362. The water absorption of the clothes can then be determined and the fabric type can be concluded depending on the amount of water absorbed by the clothes. Determining the fabric type can further include controlling the washing machine to operate the drum 132 in step 364.

[0120] By way of example only, when the laundry is dry, the laundry load may be weighed or virtually determined. The water inlet 142 is then opened, for example, until the water level sensor 105 outputs a corresponding signal indicative of the water level in the drum 132. This allows the load of wet laundry to be weighed or virtually determined. Based on the difference between the dry load and the wet load, the controller 104 may calculate the fabric type. This may include using a lookup table including a mapping between (multiple) load differences and laundry types. The opening of the water inlet 142 may be repeated one or more times to achieve a more accurate result for fabric type determination.

[0121] Virtually determining the load of the laundry may include measuring the power consumption or torque of the motor 136 (i.e., moving the laundry in the drum 132). The measured power consumption or torque of the motor 136 varies depending on the amount of water absorbed by the laundry fabric. Thus, the processor 104 may determine (calculate or use a lookup table) the fabric type based on the weight of the dry and wet laundry (including multiple repetitions of adding more water to the laundry and measuring the power consumption or torque of the motor 136).

[0122] Alternatively or additionally, the amount of water injected into the drum 132 may be completely different from the water level in the drum 132 sensed by the water level sensor 105. Specifically, a different water level may result depending on the fabric type of the laundry compared to injecting the same amount of water into an empty drum 132. The difference between the water level of the empty drum 132 and the sensed water level indicated by the sensor 105 allows the fabric type to be determined, for example, based on empirical values.

[0123] Any signal from the sensor 105 or the weight value determined by the controller 104 may be transmitted to the mobile terminal 150 (as sensor information) so that the mobile terminal may perform an associated determination of the fabric type.

[0124] In order to allow the clothes to absorb water, determining the fabric type of the clothes (step 332) can include controlling the washing machine 100, particularly operating the drum 132. For example, the drum 132 can move back and forth. The movement can include only a few degrees forward and backward, or one or more complete rotations in the forward or backward direction. Alternatively, the drum 132 is rotated in the same direction at a predefined rotation speed (e.g., 30 to 35 rpm).

[0125] Alternatively or additionally, the load sensor 103 may provide a corresponding signal indicating the weight of the drum 132. This weight allows conclusions to be drawn about the absorbency of the laundry based on empirical values. Likewise, any signal from the load sensor 103 may be transmitted to the mobile terminal 150 (as sensor information) to allow the mobile terminal 152 to determine the fabric type.

[0126] For example, when placing the laundry into the drum 132 and / or during the wash cycle, the load weight of the laundry may be determined in step 334. Alternatively or additionally, during control of the washing machine (i.e., allowing the laundry to absorb water) in steps 362 and 364, the load weight of the laundry may also be determined.

[0127] The method continues with step 352, namely calculating a risk level based on the fabric type user input and the determined fabric type (the risk contribution caused by it). In particular, the risk level indicates the risk that microfibers may be shed from the laundry during the wash cycle. In more detail, the risk level is calculated to determine whether the fabric type user input may result in fiber detachment, i.e., emission of microfibers from the laundry. Therefore, the fabric type user input is compared with the fabric type determined by the information received from the washing machine 100.

[0128] By way of example only, if it is determined in step 332 that the majority of the laundry is composed of cotton, the risk of microfiber shedding is very low. In this case (i.e., it is determined that cotton is placed in the drum 132), the method may be stopped because there is no risk of microfiber shedding. In other words, the risk level is calculated to be 0. On the other hand, a factor may be applied to the determined fabric type (step 332) to produce a low risk level. Thus, the factor used to calculate the risk level may be less than 1, and may be, for example, 0, 0.1, 0.5, 0.8, etc.

[0129] Likewise, if it is determined in step 332 that the majority of the laundry consists of synthetic fabrics, the risk of microfiber shedding is relatively high. If it is determined in step 332 that synthetic fibers are present in the drum 132, the calculated risk contribution(s) (see steps 355, 356, 358) may be taken into account. By way of example only, the calculated risk contribution(s) may be multiplied by a factor depending on whether the risk contribution(s) increases or decreases the resulting risk level. For example, the calculated risk contribution should be increased when calculating the risk level. In this case, the factor may be greater than 1, such as 1.2, 1.5, 2, 5, etc.

[0130] It should be understood that if only the fabric type user input of step 312 is performed and optional steps 314 and 316 are omitted, step 353 (calculating risk contribution) can be omitted. In other words, the fabric type (from the user input and the determination from the washing machine 100 or the mobile terminal 150) can be used to directly calculate the risk level. This further allows avoiding weighting of any risk level or risk contribution.

[0131] Furthermore, the determined load weight of the laundry (in step 334) may be taken into account when calculating the risk level in step 352. Specifically, like the risk contribution (either a weighted risk contribution or in the form of a factor), the risk contribution in step 353 (and optionally 356, 358) or step 359 may be further modified based on the determined load weight of the laundry. The smaller the load weight, the higher the risk of microfiber emission. Therefore, for small load weights, the resulting risk level must be increased compared to the risk contribution(s).

[0132] By way of example only, the risk contribution in step 353 (and optionally 356, 358) or step 359 and the risk level calculated in step 352 may be a value between 0 and 100. The following (lookup) table indicates the effect on the risk level based on the determined load weight:

[0133]

[0134] Therein, the white area means low risk, the light grey area means medium risk, and the dark grey area means high risk of microfiber shedding.

[0135] It will be appreciated that the above table does not include the risk level for non-synthetic fibres as this is low (white area) for all values ​​from 0 to 100.

[0136] Furthermore, the above table can be further divided, for example, by subgrouping the loads. For example, subgroups with steps of, for example, 200 g, 500 g or 1000 g can be used to divide the load group into finer groups. This can be obtained from the following (lookup) table, which only forms one possible example:

[0137]

[0138]

[0139] Therefore, the smaller the load weight, the higher the risk of microfiber shedding, making only a small risk contribution based on user input (see Figure 2 There is a medium risk of microfiber shedding for steps 312 to 316 and 353 to 359 in FIG. 10 . Likewise, the risk level may be low (white area) only in case of a full load and a small risk contribution based on the user input. Otherwise, especially for a quarter load and a half load, there is a medium risk level or even a high risk level.

[0140] It will be appreciated that the above-described risk level calculation may be performed in any manner that takes into account the type of fabric determined by the washing machine and / or takes into account the load weight determined by the washing machine.

[0141] By way of example only, the user inputs (steps 312, 314, 316) may be processed by values ​​on a 0..10 scale so that each of the risk contributions calculated in steps 353, 356, 358 yields a value between 0 and 10. These values ​​may be multiplied by 10 and / or may be summed, or a weighted sum may be calculated from the risk contributions so that the resulting risk level is on a 0..100 scale. A specific example would be to use a factor of 1 to 3, preferably 2, in step 359 for calculating the risk contributions for water hardness (steps 314, 356) and for detergent (steps 316, 358), and a factor of 4 to 8, preferably 6, for calculating the risk contribution for fabric type user input (steps 312, 353). In step 352, the risk level calculated as a weighted sum would be any value between 0 and 100 (e.g., using a 0..10 scale and factors of 2, 2, and 6). This risk level may then be applied to one of the above (look-up) tables, wherein the resulting risk level is classified according to the determined load (in step 334).

[0142] The resulting risk level may be low or high, or alternatively may have a medium value. If the risk level is low, then in step 372, information is output indicating that a wash cycle is to be performed according to the fabric type specified by the fabric type user input. On the other hand, if the risk level is high, then in step 376, information is output indicating that a dedicated wash cycle is to be performed to reduce microfiber shedding. In other words, a dedicated wash cycle is employed and any wash cycle identified by the fabric type user input is overruled.

[0143] As in Figure 2 , the risk level may also be medium, and if so, information indicating execution of a modified wash cycle is output in step 374. The modified wash cycle is based on or in accordance with the fabric type specified in the fabric type user input, wherein one or more wash parameters are modified. For example, the one or more modified wash parameters may include an adjusted water temperature and / or an adjusted spin speed of the washing machine drum. The spin speed is particularly important at the end of the rinse phase of the wash cycle.

[0144] As an example only, the water temperature may be adjusted by setting the maximum water temperature to 40° C. or a maximum of 30° C. The spin speed may be adjusted by setting the maximum spin speed between 400 rpm and 800 rpm. Spinning the laundry at 400 rpm, 800 rpm, or another specific value therebetween reduces the amount of microfibers that are detached from the laundry.

[0145] Outputting information in steps 372, 374 or 376 may include outputting a corresponding user message (e.g., via a display of the mobile terminal 150 and / or a user output unit 125 of the washing machine 100) and / or transmitting a corresponding signal to the washing machine 100 and / or transmitting a corresponding signal to the washing machine components 132, 134, 136, 142, 144, 146 and performing a corresponding washing cycle. For example, if the method is performed by the mobile terminal 150, in the case of step 374, a signal indicating a modified washing cycle may be transmitted to the washing machine 100. The signal may include (a plurality of) modified washing parameters. In the case of steps 372 and 376, a signal indicating a washing cycle specific to a fabric type or a dedicated washing cycle is transmitted, respectively. Such a signal may include an identification of the corresponding washing cycle and / or may include all washing parameters of a particular washing cycle.

[0146] If the method is performed at the mobile terminal 150 , the transmission of the signal may be performed via the communication unit(s) 154 , 106 , and if the method is performed by the washing machine 100 , the transmission of the signal may be performed via the component interface 110 .

[0147] In step 392, corresponding information about a wash cycle performed by the washing machine 100 and selected according to the calculated total risk level (ie, risk level and risk contribution(s)) may be output to the user. Alternatively, a status of the corresponding wash cycle may be output during execution of the wash cycle.

[0148] In addition, in step 392, information that the microfiber filter of the washing machine 100 needs to be cleaned or replaced may be output to the user. For the above information output to the user, the information output may be optional. As an example only, the information output about the microfiber filter may be based on the power consumed by the pump motor (not explicitly shown) that drives the water pump 134 of the washing machine 100. For example, if the water pump 134 delivers water to / from the drum 132 through the microfiber filter, the power required to deliver the water will decrease as the filter becomes more clogged.

[0149] Figure 3 Another exemplary method for reducing microfiber shedding from clothing during a wash cycle is schematically illustrated. Figure 3 Most of the method steps of the method are similar to Figure 2 Most of the method steps of the method are the same. These method steps have the same reference numerals, and for the sake of brevity of the present disclosure, their description will be omitted.

[0150] and Figure 2 Compared with the method Figure 3In the method of FIG. 3 , the risk level is calculated in step 352 based solely on the received fabric type user input (step 312) and the determined fabric type (step 332). Thus, the method may function even without further user input and without determining the load weight (step 334). However, if such further user input and / or load weight determination is made, once the risk level is calculated, the risk contribution(s) are calculated in steps 354, 356, and / or 358.

[0151] In other words, the risk level can be modified based on further information. Specifically, in steps 354 to 358, specific risk contributions are calculated. For example, the risk contribution caused by a specified water hardness can be calculated in step 354, the risk contribution caused by a specified detergent can be calculated in step 356, and / or the risk contribution caused by a determined load weight can be calculated in step 358.

[0152] For example, when the laundry is placed in the drum 132, the load weight of the laundry may be determined in step 334. Alternatively or additionally, during the control of the washing machine (ie, allowing the laundry to absorb water) in steps 362 and 364, the load weight of the laundry may also be determined.

[0153] The risk level and the contribution of each risk can be weighted (not in Figure 3 ), for example to form a weighted sum of the risk level and each risk contribution (if any). Since the determined fabric type has the greatest impact on the amount of microfibers emitted during the wash cycle, the weight of the risk level can be made higher than the weight of the risk contribution(s).

[0154] The washing machine 100 may be used Figure 3 The method of claim 1, wherein any user input is performed at the washing machine 100, in particular at the user input unit 120. In other words, since the user is at the washing machine 100 and not at the mobile terminal 150 which may be spatially far away from the washing machine 100, the receiving and determining steps 312 to 334 may be performed at any time and in any (time) order. This further allows corresponding tasks to be grouped by washing machine, since no interaction with the mobile terminal 150 is required. For example, calculating the risk level and calculating the risk contribution may be performed after the receiving and determining steps 312 to 334 are completed.

[0155] It should be understood that in another embodiment, the washing machine 100 can be used as a standard washing machine. In particular, if the user is at the washing machine 100 rather than at the mobile terminal 150 which may be spatially remote from the washing machine 100, the washing machine 100 can be used in a conventional manner. This includes operating the washing machine 100 even when the risk level and / or risk contribution is uncertain.

[0156] Whether Figure 2 still Figure 3 According to the method implemented in , the dedicated wash cycle for reducing microfiber shedding takes into account several washing parameters observed during the test, such as:

[0157] 1. At lower temperatures, more fiber shedding was observed, such as fibers collected in the filtration system. This shedding decreased as the washing temperature increased (25°C, 40°C, and 60°C).

[0158] 2. The change of washing speed (33rpm, 52rpm and 57rpm) resulted in more fiber shedding observed at a lower speed (33rpm). However, this shedding did not occur continuously with the increase in speed; in this way, the fiber shedding values ​​obtained for the speeds of 53rpm and 57rpm reached the best value.

[0159] 3. By varying the number of rotations (600 rpm, 1000 rpm and 1200 rpm), more fiber shedding was obtained as its value increased. It should be noted that the changes found when modifying this parameter were smaller than those experienced when testing the remaining parameters.

[0160] 4. Under load variation (2kg, 4.5kg, 7.2kg), the lower the load, the more the shedding occurs.

[0161] 5. By varying the time (50', 90' and 120'), continuous shedding was observed as this parameter increased. The shedding was higher in case of time 50' and decreased as time increased.

[0162] 6. When the water level was varied, there was more shedding in the control test with 65L of water, followed by the test with 80L of water, and finally the test with 60L of water produced the least shedding.

[0163] 7. In the case of detergent, washing without detergent and washing with HDD type detergent have great similarities. However, the test with LDD type detergent is very different from these two, with lower fiber detachment.

[0164] 8. With regard to water hardness in the wash, it has been demonstrated that by increasing the hardness, the amount of microfibers generated during washing decreases.

[0165] 9. In the fabric aging test, after analyzing the same garments after the 5th wash under control conditions, it was observed that lower levels of microfibers were released as the number of washes of these garments increased.

[0166] Therefore, a dedicated wash cycle may be performed according to the wash parameter ranges illustrated below. The table below shows the wash parameter ranges for a "normal" 60 minute wash cycle, a dedicated wash cycle and a dedicated wash cycle for comparison.

[0167]

[0168] It is believed that the advantages of the technology proposed herein will be fully understood from the above description, and it will be apparent that various changes can be made to the form, construction and arrangement of its exemplary aspects without departing from the scope of the present disclosure or sacrificing all of its beneficial effects. Since the technology proposed herein can be varied in many ways, it will be recognized that the present disclosure should be limited only by the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for reducing the shedding of microfibers from clothing during a wash cycle of a washing machine (100), the method comprising: receiving (312) a fabric type user input specifying a fabric type of clothing placed in the washing machine; determining (332) a fabric type of the clothing in the washing machine; calculating (352) a risk level based on the fabric type user input and the determined fabric type, the risk level indicating a risk that microfibers may be shed from the garment during the wash cycle; as well as If the risk level is determined to be high, information instructing to perform a dedicated wash cycle specifically adapted to reduce microfiber shedding is output (376).

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving (314) a hardness user input specifying a water hardness of water provided to the washing machine, Wherein calculating the risk level includes calculating (354) a risk contribution caused by the specified water hardness that affects the risk level.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: receiving (316) a detergent user input specifying a type of detergent to be used in a wash cycle of the washing machine, Wherein calculating the risk level includes calculating (356) a risk contribution caused by the specified detergent that affects the risk level.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: determining (334) a load weight of clothing placed in the washing machine, Wherein calculating the risk level includes calculating (358) a risk contribution affecting the risk level caused by the determined load weight.

5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising: weighting (359) the risk contribution caused by the water hardness and / or the specified detergent and / or the determined load weight, or The risk level is weighted (359) based on the risk contribution caused by the water hardness and / or the specified detergent and / or the determined load weight and the fabric type, wherein, preferably, the risk level is weighted higher than the risk contribution.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: Determining the fabric type of the garment includes determining the water absorbency of the garment, Wherein, preferably, determining the water absorbency of the clothes includes controlling (362) the washing machine to open a water inlet (142) to supply water to the clothes.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: If the risk level is determined to be low, outputting (372) information indicating that a wash cycle is to be performed according to the fabric type specified in the fabric type user input; and / or If the risk level is determined to be medium, outputting (374) information indicative of executing a modified wash cycle based on the fabric type specified in the fabric type user input but with one or more wash parameters modified, Wherein, preferably, the one or more modified washing parameters can include an adjusted water temperature and / or an adjusted rotation speed of the washing machine drum, and Wherein, preferably, the water temperature is adjusted by setting the maximum water temperature to 40° C., and / or wherein the rotation speed is adjusted by setting the maximum rotation speed between 400 rpm and 800 rpm.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: outputting (392) a user message to the user that the microfiber filter of the washing machine needs to be cleaned or replaced, Wherein, preferably, outputting (392) the user message is based on a change in power consumption of a pump motor driving a water pump (134) of the washing machine.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: Instructing (372, 374, 376) to perform a wash cycle, a modified wash cycle, or a dedicated wash cycle includes outputting a corresponding user message and / or transmitting a corresponding signal to the washing machine to perform the corresponding wash cycle.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The dedicated wash cycle to reduce microfiber shedding includes one or more of the following parameters: Initial water injection range of 20L to 25L, 20 to 25L secondary or subsequent water injection range, Maximum water temperature 40°C, During the initial water injection period, the stirring speed ranged from 30 rpm to 35 rpm. During the secondary water injection, the stirring speed ranges from 50 rpm to 55 rpm, preferably for 2 to 4 minutes, A stirring speed range of 50 rpm to 55 rpm is preferably used during the heating of the water for 4 to 8 minutes, Agitation speed range of 50 rpm to 55 rpm during washing, preferably for 2 to 4 minutes, A stirring speed range of 50 rpm to 55 rpm during rinsing, preferably for 2 to 4 minutes, and Rotation speed between 400 rpm and 800 rpm.

11. A washing system (100, 150), comprising: one or more processors (104, 153); as well as One or more memories (108, 155) configured to store processor-executable instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, configure the washing system to perform the method of one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A mobile terminal (150), comprising: Processor(153); as well as a memory (155) configured to store processor-executable instructions, Wherein, when executing the processor executable instructions, the processor is configured to: receiving a fabric type user input specifying a fabric type of clothing placed in the washing machine; determining a fabric type of the laundry in the washing machine; calculating a risk level based on the fabric type user input and the determined fabric type, the risk level indicating a risk that microfibers may be shed from the garment during the wash cycle; and If the risk level is determined to be high, information instructing to perform a dedicated wash cycle specifically adapted to reduce microfiber shedding is output (376).

13. A washing machine (100), comprising: Washing drum (132); Controller (104); a user input unit (120) configured to receive a user input; and a memory (108) configured to store computer executable instructions, Wherein, when executing the computer executable instructions, the controller is configured to: receiving a fabric type user input specifying a fabric type of clothing placed in the wash drum; determining a fabric type of the laundry in the wash drum; calculating a risk level based on the fabric type user input and the determined fabric type, the risk level indicating a risk that microfibers may be shed from the garment during the wash cycle; and If the risk level is determined to be high, information instructing to perform a dedicated wash cycle specifically adapted to reduce microfiber shedding is output (376).

14. The washing machine according to claim 13, further comprising: a load sensor (103) configured to weigh the load of the drum (132); and / or A water level sensor (105) is configured to detect the water level in the drum (132).

15. A computer program product comprising program code portions for performing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10 when the computer program product is executed on one or more computing devices, in, Preferably, the computer program product is stored on a computer readable recording medium.

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