Filtration device and method for managing filtration device

Abstract

The invention provides a filtering device capable of being connected to a washing machine and a management method of the filtering device. The method comprises the following steps that a server stores information of the washing machine; the server registers the filtering device to a user account in response to the received registration request signal of the filtering device; on the basis that the filtering device is registered to the user account, the server sends information of the washing machine to the filtering device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a filter device connectable to a washing machine and a method of managing the filter device. Background Art

[0002] A washing machine is a device that washes the clothes put into a drum by using the driving force of a driving motor to stir the clothes, water and detergent together and washes the clothes by friction.

[0003] Regardless of the type of washing machine, operations performed by the washing machine include a washing operation for washing clothes put into a tub by supplying detergent and water to the tub and rotating the drum, a rinsing operation for rinsing the clothes by supplying water to the tub and rotating the drum, and a dehydration operation for dehydrating water in the clothes by draining water from the tub and rotating the drum.

[0004] The washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water stored in the tub to the outside of the washing machine when a washing operation, a rinsing operation, and / or a dehydrating operation are performed.

[0005] Water discharged from drainage equipment contains pollutants (e.g., microplastics) and needs to be filtered out to protect the environment. Summary of the invention

Technical issues

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a filtering device that is easy to manage.

[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a filtering device capable of communicating with an external device.

[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a filtering device that allows a user to easily check the status of the filtering device.

[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a filtering device that is easy for a user to control.

[0010] The technical purpose of the present disclosure is not limited to the above contents, and a person of ordinary skill in the art may understand other purposes based on the following description.

Technical Solution

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for managing a filtering device is provided, which can be positioned outside a washing machine and can be connected to a drainage device of the washing machine to filter water discharged from the washing machine, the method comprising: storing information of the washing machine by a server; registering the filtering device in association with a user account by the server based on receiving a registration request signal for registering the filtering device; and sending information of the washing machine to the filtering device by the server based on the registration of the filtering device in association with the user account.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for managing a filtering device is provided, which filtering device can be positioned outside a washing machine and can be connected to a drainage device of the washing machine to filter water discharged from the washing machine, the method comprising: establishing communication between the filtering device and the washing machine through a wired communication module or a short-range communication module; sending information of the filtering device to the washing machine by the filtering device through communication established between the washing machine and the filtering device; sending information of the washing machine to the filtering device by the washing machine; sending a registration request signal for registering the filtering device to a server by the washing machine, the registration request signal including the information of the filtering device; and registering the filtering device in association with a user account by the server based on receiving the registration request signal for registering the filtering device.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a filtering device is provided, which can be positioned outside a washing machine and can be connected to a drainage device of the washing machine to filter water discharged from the washing machine, the filtering device comprising: a housing; a filter housing, which can be arranged in the housing and has an inlet and an outlet; a filter, which can be attached to and detached from the filter housing; a filter cleaning device, including a cleaning member and a cleaning motor, the cleaning member being configured to rotate when in contact with a surface of the filter for filtering foreign matter, the cleaning motor being configured to rotate the cleaning member; and a circuit, which is located between the housing and the filter housing and includes a controller and a communicator, wherein the controller is configured to: receive information of the washing machine from an external device through the communicator, and control the operation of the filter cleaning device based on the information of the washing machine. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 A clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment is shown;

[0015] Figure 2 It shows that according to the embodiment Figure 1 A cross section of a washing machine is shown;

[0016] Figure 3 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment;

[0017] Figure 4 A clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment is shown;

[0018] Figure 5 It shows that according to the embodiment Figure 4 A cross section of a washing machine is shown;

[0019] Figure 6 It shows that according to the embodiment Figure 1 and Figure 3 The interior of the filter device shown;

[0020] Figure 7It shows that according to the embodiment Figure 6 An exploded view of the filter device shown;

[0021] Figure 8 It shows that according to the embodiment Figure 7 The filter device shown, but oriented in the same Figure 7 The orientations shown are different;

[0022] Fig. 9 It shows that according to the embodiment Figure 6 A cross section of some components of the filtration device is shown;

[0023] Fig.10 shows an exploded view of a circuit module of a filter device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0024] Fig.11 A circuit diagram of a filtering device according to an embodiment is shown;

[0025] Fig.12 is a control block diagram of a filtering device according to an embodiment;

[0026] Fig.13 is a control block diagram of a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment;

[0027] Fig.14 shows an example of a state in which communication is established between a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment;

[0028] Fig.15a and Fig.15b shows an example of a state in which communication is established between a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment;

[0029] Fig.16a and Fig.16b shows an example of a state in which communication is established between a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment;

[0030] Fig.17 shows a state in which a washing machine and a filtering device according to an embodiment are connected by wire;

[0031] Fig.18 shows a connection portion formed in a washing machine according to an embodiment;

[0032] Fig.19 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for managing a filtering device according to an embodiment;

[0033] Fig. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for registering a filtering device in a server according to an embodiment;

[0034] Fig.21 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for registering a filtering device in a server according to an embodiment;

[0035] Fig. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for registering a filtering device in a server according to an embodiment;

[0036] Fig.23a , Figure 23b and Fig.23c shows an example of a user interface for obtaining information about a washing machine according to an embodiment;

[0037] Fig.23d shows an example of a user interface for selecting a washing machine when there are washing machines already registered in a server according to an embodiment;

[0038] Fig.24 An example of a user interface for notifying registration when a filtering device is registered in a server according to an embodiment is shown;

[0039] Fig.25 is a flow chart showing a process of inputting a control command through a user device according to an embodiment;

[0040] Fig.26 is a flow chart showing a process of obtaining information from a filtering device according to an embodiment;

[0041] Fig. 27 is a flowchart showing a process of obtaining information from a washing machine according to an embodiment;

[0042] Fig.28 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for managing a filtering device according to an embodiment;

[0043] Fig.29 is a diagram visualizing the flow of information between a filtering device, a washing machine, and a server according to an embodiment;

[0044] Fig.30 is a flow chart showing a process of inputting a control command through a user device according to an embodiment;

[0045] Fig.31 is a flow chart showing a process of obtaining information from a filtering device according to an embodiment;

[0046] Fig.32 is a flowchart showing an example of a process in which a filtering device receives washing machine information from a user device according to an embodiment;

[0047] Fig.33 is a flowchart showing an example of a process in which a filtering device receives washing machine information from a user device according to an embodiment;

[0048] Fig.34 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for registering a filtering device in a server according to an embodiment;

[0049] Fig.35 is a flowchart showing an example of a method of controlling a filtering device according to an embodiment; and

[0050] Fig.36 An example of a lookup table for modifying an operating algorithm of a filtering device according to an embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the drawings are merely examples of preferred embodiments of the present disclosure, and various modifications may be made to replace the embodiments and drawings of this specification at the time of filing the present disclosure.

[0052] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing the embodiments and is not intended to limit and / or define the present disclosure.

[0053] For example, a singular expression herein may include a plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0054] In the present disclosure, phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrases in these phrases or any possible combination thereof.

[0055] The term "and / or" includes a combination of one or all of the associated listed items.

[0056] As used herein, terms such as “1st” and “2nd” or “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish corresponding components from other components, and do not limit the components in other aspects (eg, importance or order).

[0057] Terms such as "first", "second", etc. are used to distinguish one element from another element without modifying the elements in other respects (e.g., importance or order). When one (e.g., first) element is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., second) element, whether or not accompanied by the term "functionally" or "communicatively", it means that one element is connected to the other element directly, wirelessly, or via a third element.

[0058] It will be understood that the terms “includes,” “comprising,” and / or “having,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0059] It should be understood that if a component is referred to as being “coupled to another component”, “coupled to another component”, “supported on another component” or “in contact with another component”, it means that the component may be coupled to the other component directly or indirectly via a third component.

[0060] Throughout this specification, when a member is referred to as being “on” another member, the member is in contact with the other member, or another member is interposed between the two members.

[0061] Terms such as "-component", "-device", "-block", "-member", "-module" and the like may refer to a unit for processing at least one function or action. For example, these terms may refer to at least one process processed by at least one hardware (e.g., field programmable gate array (FPGA) / application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)), software stored in a memory, or a processor.

[0062] According to various embodiments, the washing machine may perform washing, rinsing, draining and dehydrating operations. The washing machine may also be a drying combination washing machine capable of performing a drying operation on dehydrated clothes. The washing machine may be an example of a clothes treating device. The concept of a clothes treating device includes a device for washing clothes (objects to be washed or dried), a device for drying clothes, and a device capable of washing and drying clothes.

[0063] The washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a top-loading washing machine in which an inlet for putting clothes into the top-loading washing machine is arranged upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which an inlet for putting clothes into the front-loading washing machine is arranged forward. The washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include another loading type washing machine in addition to the top-loading washing machine and the front-loading washing machine.

[0064] A top-loading washing machine can wash clothes by using a water flow generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. A front-loading washing machine can wash clothes by repeatedly raising and lowering the clothes by rotating the drum. The front-loading washing machine may include a lifter for lifting the clothes. The front-loading washing machine may include a drying combination washing machine capable of drying the clothes stored in the drum. The drying combination washing machine may include a heating device for high-temperature air. The drying combination washing machine may also include a condensing device for dry air. For example, the drying combination washing machine may include a heat pump. In addition to the washing machine using the above-mentioned washing method, the washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may also include a washing machine using another washing method.

[0065] Hereinafter, a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0066] Figure 1 A clothes treating apparatus according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A cross section of a washing machine is shown.

[0067] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a washing machine 10 of a laundry treating apparatus may include a washing machine housing 11 accommodating various components. The washing machine housing 11 may form the exterior of the washing machine 10. The washing machine housing 11 may have a box shape that is at least partially opened.

[0068] The washing machine housing 11 may include a housing opening 12 for allowing access to the interior of the drum 30. The housing opening 12 may be generally open forward.

[0069] The washing machine 10 may include a door 13 for opening or closing a housing opening 12 provided in the washing machine housing 11. The door 13 may be rotatably mounted on the washing machine housing 11 via a hinge 14. At least a portion of the door 13 may be transparent or translucent to display the interior of the washing machine housing 11.

[0070] The washing machine 10 may include a tub 20 disposed inside the washing machine housing 11 to store water. The tub 20 may be disposed inside the washing machine housing 11. The tub 20 may include a tub opening 22 disposed to correspond to the housing opening 12. The tub opening 22 may be generally open forward. The tub 20 may be supported on an inner surface of the washing machine housing 11. The tub 20 may have a generally cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0071] The tub 20 may be elastically supported from the washing machine housing 11 by the damper 80. The damper 80 may connect the tub 20 to the washing machine housing 11. When vibration generated according to the rotation of the drum 30 is transmitted to the tub 20 and / or the washing machine housing 11, the damper 80 may absorb vibration energy between the tub 20 and the washing machine housing 11 to attenuate the vibration.

[0072] The washing machine 10 may include a drum 30 for accommodating laundry. The drum 30 may be rotatably disposed inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration while rotating inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may include a through hole 34 that connects the inner space of the drum 30 to the inner space of the tub 20. The drum 30 may have a generally cylindrical shape with one side open. On the inner circumferential surface of the drum 30, at least one lifter 35 may be provided to raise and lower the laundry according to the rotation of the drum 30.

[0073] The drum 30 may include a drum opening 32 corresponding to the housing opening 12 and the tub opening 22. Laundry may be put into or taken out of the drum 30 through the housing opening 12, the tub opening 22, and the drum opening 32.

[0074] The washing machine 10 may include a washing machine driving device 40 configured to rotate the drum 30. The washing machine driving device 40 may include a driving motor 41 and a rotating shaft 42 for transmitting a driving force generated in the driving motor 41 to the drum 30. The rotating shaft 42 may penetrate the tub 20 and be connected to the drum 30.

[0075] The washing machine 10 may be classified into a direct drive type in which a rotation shaft 42 is directly connected to a driving motor 41 to rotate the drum 30 , and an indirect drive type in which a pulley 43 is connected between the driving motor 41 and the rotation shaft 42 to drive the drum 30 .

[0076] The washing machine 10 according to the embodiment may be arranged as an indirect drive type, but is not limited thereto and may also be arranged as a direct drive type.

[0077] One end of the rotating shaft 42 may be connected to the drum 30, and the other end of the rotating shaft 42 may be connected to the pulley 43 to obtain a driving force from the driving motor 41. The motor pulley 41a may be formed on the rotating shaft of the driving motor 41. The driving belt 44 is provided between the motor pulley 41a and the pulley 43 so that the rotating shaft 42 may be driven by the driving belt 44.

[0078] At the rear of the tub 20, a bearing housing 45 may be installed to rotatably support the rotating shaft 42. The bearing housing 45 may be made of an aluminum alloy and may be inserted into the rear of the tub 20 when the tub 20 is injection molded.

[0079] The washing machine driving device 40 may be configured to perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydrating or drying operations by rotating the drum 30 forwardly or reversely.

[0080] The washing machine 10 may include a water supply device 50. The water supply device 50 may supply water to the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may be located above the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may include a water supply pipe 51 and a water supply valve 56 disposed in the water supply pipe 51. The water supply pipe 51 may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe 51 may extend from the external water supply source to the detergent supply device 60 and / or the tub 20. Water may be supplied to the tub 20 via the detergent supply device 60. Water may not be supplied to the tub 20 via the detergent supply device 60.

[0081] The water supply valve 56 may open or close the water supply pipe 51 in response to an electrical signal from the controller 90. The water supply valve 56 may allow or prevent water from being supplied from an external water supply source to the tub 20. The water supply valve 56 may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens or closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0082] The washing machine 10 may include a detergent supply device 60 configured to supply detergent to the tub 20. The detergent supply device 60 may supply detergent to the inside of the tub 20 during the water supply process. The water supplied through the water supply pipe 51 may be mixed with the detergent supplied via the detergent supply device 60. The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied to the inside of the tub 20. The detergent may include a softener for a dryer, a deodorant, a disinfectant or an air freshener as well as the detergent. The detergent supply device 60 may be connected to the tub 20 through a connecting pipe 61.

[0083] The washing machine 10 may include a drainage device 70. The drainage device 70 may be configured to drain water contained in the tub 20 to the outside. The drainage device 70 may include a drainage pump 73 for draining water from the tub 20 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11, a connecting hose 71 for connecting the tub 20 and the drainage pump 73 so that the water inside the tub 20 flows into the drainage pump 73, and a drainage hose 74 for guiding the water pumped by the drainage pump 73 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11. The drainage device 70 may include a drainage valve 72, which is provided on the connecting hose 71 and is used to open and close the connecting hose 71.

[0084] The washing machine 10 may provide a user interface device 15 for interaction between a user and the washing machine 10 .

[0085] The washing machine 10 may include at least one user interface device 15. The user interface device 15 may include at least one input interface 16 and at least one output interface 17.

[0086] The at least one input interface 16 may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0087] The at least one input interface 16 may include a power button, an operation button, a program selection dial (or a program selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface 16 may include, for example, a touch switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a toggle dial, and / or a microphone.

[0088] The at least one output interface 17 may transmit various types of information related to the operation of the washing machine 10 to the user by generating sensory information.

[0089] For example, the at least one output interface 17 may send information related to a washing program, an operating time of the washing machine 10, and a washing setting / rinsing setting / spinning setting to a user. Information on the operation of the washing machine 10 may be output through a screen, an indicator, or voice. The at least one output interface 17 may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, an LED module, a speaker, etc.

[0090] The laundry treating apparatus 1 may include a filter device 100 configured to be connectable to the drain device 70 of the washing machine 10. For example, the filter device 100 may be configured to be connectable to the drain hose 74.

[0091] The filter device 100 may be disposed outside the washing machine 10. For example, the filter device 100 may be disposed outside the washing machine housing 11. The filter device 100 may be disposed to filter foreign matter in water discharged from the washing machine 10. The filter device 100 may be disposed to filter foreign matter having a size smaller than that of foreign matter that can be filtered by the washing machine 10. For example, the filter device 100 may be disposed to filter foreign matter having a size smaller than that of foreign matter that can be filtered by the drainage device 70 of the washing machine 10.

[0092] Figure 3 is a control block diagram illustrating a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0093] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 may include a user interface device 15 , a driving device 40 , a water supply device 50 , a drainage device 70 , a sensor 95 , a communicator 96 , and a controller 90 .

[0094] The user interface device 15 may provide a user interface for interaction with the user and the washing machine 10 .

[0095] The user interface device 15 may include at least one input interface 16 and at least one output interface 17 .

[0096] The at least one input interface 16 may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0097] The at least one input interface 16 may include a power button, an operation button, a program selection dial (or a program selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface 16 may include, for example, a touch switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a toggle dial, and / or a microphone.

[0098] The at least one output interface 17 may transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine 10 to the user by generating sensory information.

[0099] For example, the at least one output interface 17 may send information related to a washing program, an operating time of the washing machine 10, and a washing setting / rinsing setting / spinning setting to a user. Information on the operation of the washing machine 10 may be output through a screen, an indicator, or voice. The at least one output interface 17 may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0100] The driving device 40 may include a driving motor 41 that provides a driving force to rotate the drum 30. The driving device 40 may operate based on a control signal from the controller 90.

[0101] The water supply device 50 may include a water supply valve 56 for opening and closing a water supply pipe 51 extending from an external water source to the detergent supply device 60 and / or the tub 20. The water supply valve 56 may be opened and closed based on a control signal from the controller 90.

[0102] The drainage device 70 may include a drainage pump 73 for draining water from the tub 20 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11. The drainage pump 73 may operate based on a control signal of the controller 90.

[0103] The sensor 95 may include at least one sensor that obtains information related to an operating state of the washing machine 10 .

[0104] For example, the sensor 95 may include at least one of a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the barrel, a sensor for detecting the operating status of the driving device 40, a flow sensor for detecting the flow rate flowing into the barrel 20 through the water supply device 50, or a sensor for detecting the operating status of the drainage device 70.

[0105] The sensor for detecting the operating state of the driving device 40 may include, for example, a current sensor for measuring a driving current applied to the driving motor 41 , but is not limited thereto.

[0106] The sensor for detecting the operating state of the drain device 70 may include, for example, a current sensor for measuring a driving current applied to the drain pump 73 , but is not limited thereto.

[0107] The washing machine 10 may include a communicator 96 for wired and / or wireless communication with an external device (eg, a server, a user device, a home appliance, and / or the filtering apparatus 100 ).

[0108] The communicator 96 may include at least one of a short-range communicator and a long-range communicator.

[0109] The communicator 96 may send data to or receive data from an external device. For example, the communicator 96 may establish communication with the filtering device 100, a server, a user device, and / or other home appliances and send / receive various data.

[0110] To this end, the communicator 96 can establish a direct (wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel with an external electronic device (e.g., a server, a user terminal and / or a household appliance), and support communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communicator 96 may include a wireless communicator (e.g., a cellular communicator, a short-range wireless communicator, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communicator) or a wired communicator (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communicator or a power line communicator). The corresponding communicator among the communicators can communicate with the external electronic device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct connection, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a telecommunications network, such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communicators can be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple independent components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0111] The short-range wireless communicator may include a Bluetooth communicator, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communicator, a near field communicator (Near Field Communicator), a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communicator, a Zigbee communicator, an infrared data association (IrDA) communicator, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communicator, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communicator, an Ant+ communicator, a microwave (uWave) communicator, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0112] The long-distance communicator may include a communicator that performs various types of long-distance communications, and may include a mobile communication unit.

[0113] In an embodiment, the communicator can communicate with an external device (such as a server, a user device, or other home appliances) through a nearby access point (AP). The wireless access point device can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine 10, the filtering device 100, and / or the user device are connected to a WAN to which the server is connected. The filtering device 100, the washing machine 10, and / or the user device can be connected to the server through the WAN.

[0114] The controller 90 may control various components (e.g., the driving device 40, the water supply device 50, and the drainage device 70) of the washing machine 10. The controller 90 may control the various components of the washing machine 10 according to user input to perform at least one operation including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration. For example, the controller 90 may control the driving motor 41 of the driving device 40 to adjust the rotation speed of the drum 30, control the water supply valve 56 of the water supply device 50 to supply water to the tub 20, or control the drainage pump 73 of the drainage device 70 to discharge water from the tub 20 to the outside.

[0115] The controller 90 may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom or memory and software such as a control program. For example, the controller 90 may include at least one memory 92 and at least one processor 91, the at least one memory 92 storing data in the form of an algorithm or program for controlling the operation of components in the washing machine 10, and the at least one processor 91 using the data stored in the at least one memory 92 to perform the above operations and the operations to be described below. The memory 92 and the processor 91 may be implemented as separate chips. The processor 91 may include one or more processor chips, or may include one or more processing cores. The memory 92 may include one or more memory chips, or may include one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory 92 and the processor 91 may be implemented as a single chip.

[0116] Figure 4 A laundry treating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which is a washing machine in this embodiment. Figure 5 Shows Figure 4 A cross section of a washing machine is shown.

[0117] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the laundry treating device 1a (which is a washing machine 10a in this embodiment) may include a housing 11a in which various components are accommodated. The housing 11a may form the exterior of the washing machine 10a. The housing 11a may have a box shape with a portion thereof opened.

[0118] The housing 11a may include a housing opening 12a formed to provide access to the interior of the drum 30a. The housing opening 12a may be generally open upward.

[0119] The washing machine 10a may include a door 13a for opening and closing a housing opening 12a provided in the housing 11a. The door 13a may be rotatably mounted to the housing 11a via a hinge. At least a portion of the door 13a may be transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing 11a can be seen.

[0120] The washing machine 10a may include a tub 20a disposed inside the housing 11a to store water. The tub 20a may be disposed inside the housing 11a. The tub 20a may include a tub opening 22a disposed to correspond to the housing opening 12a. The tub opening 22a may be generally open upward. The tub 20a may be supported inside the housing 11a. The tub 20a may have a generally cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0121] The tub 20a may be elastically supported from the housing 11a by the damper 80a. The damper 80a may connect the housing 11a and the tub 20a. When the vibration generated by the rotation of the drum 30a is transmitted to the tub 20a and / or the housing 11a, the damper 80a may be configured to attenuate the vibration by absorbing the vibration energy between the tub 20a and the housing 11a.

[0122] The washing machine 10a may include a drum 30a for accommodating clothes. The drum 30a may be rotatably arranged inside the tub 20a. The drum 30a may rotate in the tub 20a to perform washing, rinsing and / or dehydration. The drum 30a may include a through hole 34a that connects the inner space of the drum 30a and the inner space of the tub 20a. The drum 30a may have a generally cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0123] The balancing unit 36a may be mounted on the top of the drum 30a to resolve the load imbalance caused by the laundry. The balancing unit 36a includes a housing having an annular channel and a ball or fluid mass body movably disposed inside the channel, and when the ball or fluid moves according to the rotation of the drum 30a, the balancing unit 36a may resolve the load imbalance of the drum 30a.

[0124] A pulsator 37a is rotatably provided at the bottom of the drum 30a to generate a wash water flow. The laundry can be washed by the wash water flow generated by the pulsator 37a.

[0125] The drum 30a may include a drum opening 32a, which is arranged to correspond to the housing opening 12a and the tub opening 22a. Clothes can be put into the drum 30a or taken out from the drum 30a through the housing opening 12a, the tub opening 22a and the drum opening 32a.

[0126] The washing machine 10a may include a washing machine driving device 40a configured to rotate the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a. The washing machine driving device 40a may include a driving motor 41a and a shaft system for transmitting a driving force generated by the driving motor 41a to the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a.

[0127] The drive motor 41 a may include a fixed stator 48 a and a rotor 49 a that rotates through electromagnetic interaction with the stator 48 a .

[0128] The shaft system may include: a dehydration shaft 47a, arranged to transmit the driving force of the drive motor 41a to the drum 30a; a washing shaft 46a, arranged to transmit the driving force of the drive motor 41a to the pulsator 37a; and a clutch device 45a, connecting or disconnecting the drive motor 41a to the dehydration shaft 47a.

[0129] The dehydration shaft 47a is formed to have a hollow, and the washing shaft 46a can be arranged in the hollow of the dehydration shaft 47a. The washing shaft 46a remains connected to the rotor 49a of the drive motor 41a, and the dehydration shaft 47a can be connected to the rotor 49a of the drive motor 41a or disconnected from the rotor 49a by the clutch device 45a.

[0130] When the clutch device 45a disconnects the dehydration shaft 47a from the drive motor 41a, power is transmitted to the washing shaft 46a, so that only the impeller 37a rotates; and when the clutch device 45a connects the dehydration shaft 47a to the drive motor 41a, power is transmitted to both the dehydration shaft 47a and the washing shaft 46a, so that the drum 30a and the impeller 37a can rotate simultaneously.

[0131] When only the pulsator 37a rotates, a wash water flow is generated by the rotation of the pulsator 37a, and the clothes are rotated by the wash water flow and rubbed with the drum 30a, so that the clothes can be washed. When the pulsator 37a and the drum 30a rotate simultaneously, the clothes inside the drum 30a are rotated, and the clothes are dehydrated by centrifugal force, so that the clothes can be dehydrated.

[0132] Washing machine 10a may include water supply device 50a. Water supply device 50a may supply water to tub 20a. Water supply device 50a may be located above tub 20a. Water supply device 50a may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve, which is arranged in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water supply source to detergent supply device 60a and / or tub 20a. Water may be supplied to tub 20a via detergent supply device 60a. Water may be supplied to tub 20a without passing through detergent supply device 60a.

[0133] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the controller. The water supply valve can allow or prevent water from being supplied to the tub 20a from an external water supply source. The water supply valve can include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0134] The washing machine 10a may include a detergent supply device 60a configured to supply detergent to the tub 20a. The detergent supply device 60a may be configured to supply detergent to the tub 20a during the water supply process. The water supplied by the water supply pipe may be mixed with the detergent via the detergent supply device 60a. The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied to the tub 20a. The detergent may include not only washing powder but also dryer rinse agent, deodorant, disinfectant or fragrance.

[0135] The washing machine 10a may include a drain device 70a. The drain device 70a may be configured to drain the water contained in the tub 20a to the outside. A drain port 21a may be formed at a lower portion of the tub 20a to drain the water stored in the tub 20a to the outside of the tub 20a. A drain hose 74a may be connected to the drain hole 21a, and a drain valve 72a for opening and closing the drain hose 74a may be provided in the drain hose 74a.

[0136] The washing machine 10a may provide a user interface device 15a for interaction between a user and the washing machine 10a.

[0137] The washing machine 10a may include at least one user interface device 15a. The user interface device 15a may include at least one input interface 16a and at least one output interface 17b.

[0138] The at least one input interface 16a may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0139] The at least one input interface 16a may include a power button, an operation button, a program selection dial (or a program selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface 16a may include, for example, a touch switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a toggle dial, and / or a microphone.

[0140] The at least one output interface 17b may transmit various information related to the operation of the washing machine 10a to the user by generating sensory information.

[0141] For example, at least one output interface 17b may send information related to a washing program, the working time of the washing machine 10a, and a washing setting / rinsing setting / spinning setting to a user. Information on the operation of the washing machine 10a may be output through a screen, an indicator, or voice. At least one output interface 17b may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0142] The laundry treating apparatus 1a may include Figure 1 and Figure 2 The filter device 100 shown in the figure is the same as the filter device 100. For example, the filter device 100 according to the embodiment can be connected to a front loading washing machine or a top loading washing machine. The filter device 100 can be configured to be connectable to the drainage device 70a of the washing machine 10a. The filter device 100 can be arranged outside the washing machine 10a. The filter device 100 can be configured to filter foreign matter in water discharged from the washing machine 10a. The filter device 100 can be configured to filter foreign matter whose size is smaller than the size of foreign matter that can be filtered by the washing machine 10a. For example, the filter device 100 can be configured to filter foreign matter whose size is smaller than the size of foreign matter that can be filtered by the drainage device 70a of the washing machine 10a.

[0143] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The washing machine 10a of the laundry treatment apparatus 1a shown may include Figure 3 The configuration of the washing machine 10 is shown.

[0144] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 and Figure 3 The interior of the filter device is shown. Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 Exploded view of the filter unit shown. Figure 8 Shows Figure 7 The filter device shown, but oriented in the same Figure 7 The orientations shown are different; Fig. 9 Shows Figure 6 A cross section of some components of a filtration device is shown.

[0145] refer to Figures 6 to 8According to the embodiment, the filter device 100 may include a filter housing 101 that accommodates various components. The filter housing 101 may include a housing body 102, a housing cover 103, and a housing bracket 104. For example, the housing body 102, the housing cover 103, and the housing bracket 104 may be provided as separate components. For example, the housing body 102 may be formed integrally with the housing cover 103. For example, the housing body 102 may be formed integrally with the housing bracket 104. For example, the housing cover 103 may be formed integrally with the housing bracket 104. For example, the housing body 102 may be formed integrally with the housing cover 103 and the housing bracket 104.

[0146] The housing body 102 may form a space for accommodating various components. The housing body 102 may have a generally U-shaped cross section perpendicular to the direction in which the filter 120 accommodated therein extends. The housing body 102 may have a box shape with an open front surface, a rear surface, and a top surface. The housing body 102 may be detachably coupled to the housing cover 103 and / or the housing bracket 104.

[0147] The housing body 102 may include a housing inlet 102a for receiving water into the interior of the filter device 100 and a housing outlet 102b for discharging water from the interior of the filter device 100 to the exterior of the filter device 100. The housing inlet 102a and / or the housing outlet 102b may be located at a lower portion of the housing body 102.

[0148] The housing inlet 102a may be connected to the drain hoses 74 and 74a of the washing machines 10 and 10a. The housing outlet 102b may be connected to the drain line 105.

[0149] The housing cover 103 may be provided to cover the open front surface and the upper surface of the housing body 102. The housing cover 103 may be detachably coupled to the housing body 102 and / or the housing bracket 104. The housing cover 103 may include a cover opening 103a formed to allow the filter 120 to pass therethrough. The housing cover 103 may include a mounting portion 103b in which the user interface device 197 is mounted. At least a portion of the user interface device 197 may be exposed to the outside of the filtering device 100 through the mounting portion 103b.

[0150] The housing bracket 104 may be provided to cover the open rear surface of the housing body 102. The housing bracket 104 may be detachably coupled to the housing body 102 and / or the housing cover 103. The housing bracket 104 may include a cable opening 104a formed to allow the power cable 109 to pass therethrough. The housing bracket 104 may include a connector mounting portion 104b formed to connect a connector 108 for communicating with an external device including the washing machine 10 or the like.

[0151] The filter device 100 may include a filter housing 110 located inside the filter case 101. The filter housing 110 may form a flow path through which water flowing into the filter device 100 flows. The filter housing 110 may be configured to accommodate the filter 120. The filter housing 110 may include a housing body 111 and a housing cover 112.

[0152] The housing body 111 may extend in a direction in which the filter 120 accommodated therein extends. The housing body 111 may include a housing opening 111a formed to allow the filter 120 to pass therethrough. The housing opening 111a may be arranged to correspond to the cover opening 103a. The housing opening 111a is positioned closer to the housing outlet 111b than the housing inlet 112a, and may be arranged so that the filter 120 can pass therethrough.

[0153] The housing body 111 may include a housing outlet 111b for discharging water flowing from the filter housing 110 into the filter housing 110. The housing outlet 111b may be located at a lower portion of the housing body 111. The housing outlet 111b may be located adjacent to the housing opening 111a. The housing outlet 111b may be located near the other end opposite to the end where the filter opening 120a of the filter 120 is located. The housing outlet 111b may be located such that the housing outlet 111b is closer to the second filter portion 122 relative to the first filter portion 121 of the filter 120.

[0154] The housing outlet 111b may be connected to the outer shell outlet 102b. The filter device 100 may include a discharge guide 107 for connecting the housing outlet 111b and the outer shell outlet 102b.

[0155] The housing cover 112 may be detachably coupled to the other end of the housing body 111 opposite to the end where the housing opening 111a is located. For example, the housing cover 112 may be integrally formed with the housing body 111.

[0156] The housing cover 112 may include a housing inlet 112a through which water flows into the filter housing 110. The housing inlet 112a may be connected to the housing inlet 102a. The filter device 100 may include an inlet guide 106 for connecting the housing inlet 112a and the housing inlet 102a. The housing inlet 112a may include an inlet.

[0157] The housing cover 112 may include a motor mounting portion 112b for mounting the filter cleaning device 130 thereon. The motor mounting portion 112b may be located above the housing inlet 112a. The cleaning motor 136 of the filter cleaning device 130 may be mounted on the motor mounting portion 112b.

[0158] The filter device 100 may include a filter 120 that is detachably coupled to the filter housing 110. The filter 120 may be configured to filter fine foreign matter. The filter 120 may be configured to filter microplastics having a size of about 5 mm or less. The filter 120 may include a mesh filter. The filter 120 may extend approximately between the housing inlet 112a and the housing outlet 111b.

[0159] When the filter 120 is mounted on the filter housing 110, the filter 120 may include a filter opening 120a opened toward the housing inlet 112a. Water flowing into the filter housing 110 through the housing inlet 112a may enter the filter 120 through the filter opening 120a.

[0160] The filter 120 may include a first filter portion 121 and a second filter portion 122. The first filter portion 121 may be positioned closer to the housing inlet 112a than the second filter portion 122. In the water flowing into the filter housing 110, foreign matter may be filtered through the first filter portion 121, or may not be filtered in the first filter portion 121, but may be filtered in the second filter portion 122 after the foreign matter passes through the first filter portion 121. The first filter portion 121 and the second filter portion 122 may be sequentially arranged along the direction in which the filter 120 extends. Foreign matter transferred from the first filter portion 121 may be collected in the second filter portion 122 by the filter cleaning device 130.

[0161] When the filter 120 is mounted on the filter housing 110, the filter device 100 may include a handle 129 that is at least partially exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101. The handle 129 may be detachably coupled to the filter 120. Since the handle 129 is detachably coupled to the filter 120, the filter 120 may be easily maintained and / or repaired. The handle 129 may be rotated and coupled to the cover opening 103a and / or the housing opening 111a.

[0162] The filter device 100 may include a filter cleaning device 130 for cleaning the filter 120. The filter cleaning device 130 may be mounted on the filter housing 110. The filter cleaning device 130 may include a cleaning member 131 for cleaning the surface of the filter 120 filtering foreign matter and a cleaning driver 135 for driving the cleaning member 131.

[0163] The cleaning member 131 may be located inside the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may be arranged to correspond to the first filtering portion 121 of the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may have a spirally extending blade 131a. The blade 131a may extend from the rotation axis of the cleaning member 131 in a radial direction. The cleaning member 131 may be arranged to contact the surface of the filter 120 that filters foreign matter. The cleaning member 131 may be arranged to contact the inner surface of the filter 120. For example, the cleaning member 131 may include a plurality of brushes.

[0164] When the cleaning member 131 is driven by the cleaning drive device 135, the cleaning member 131 may be arranged to transfer the filtered foreign matter from the part of the filter 120 closer to the housing inlet 112a to the part of the filter 120 closer to the housing outlet 111b of the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may be arranged to transfer the foreign matter filtered by the first filter part 121 to the second filter part 122. For example, the cleaning member 131 may be rotatably arranged inside the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may include a flexible material. The cleaning member 131 rotates in contact with the filter 120 and may clean the foreign matter filtered by the filter 120. When the cleaning member 131 is driven to contact the filter 120, the cleaning member 131 may scrape and remove the foreign matter attached to the surface of the filter 120 (through which the foreign matter is filtered). For example, the cleaning member 131 may be slidably arranged inside the filter 120.

[0165] Since the cleaning member 131 is configured to transfer foreign matter filtered by the first filter portion 121 to the second filter portion 122, and water flowing into the filter housing 110 flows from the first filter portion 121 to the second filter portion 122, the foreign matter filtered by the first filter portion 121 can be effectively collected in the second filter portion 122.

[0166] The cleaning drive 135 may include a cleaning motor 136 and a motor shaft 137. The cleaning motor 136 may be configured to generate power for driving the cleaning member 131. The motor shaft 137 may be connected to the cleaning member 131. The cleaning motor 136 may be mounted on the filter housing 110. The cleaning motor 136 may be positioned closer to the housing inlet 112a than to the housing outlet 111b.

[0167] The filter device 100 may include a circuit module 190 located inside the filter housing 101. The circuit module 190 may be located at an upper end inside the filter housing 101. The circuit module 190 may be located at one side of the filter housing 110. For example, the circuit module 190 may be located above the filter housing 110. For example, the circuit module 190 may be disposed above the filter 120.

[0168] As another example, the circuit module 190 may be disposed on a lower side, a left side, a right side, a front side, and / or a rear side of the filter housing 110 .

[0169] The circuit module 190 may include a controller 191 for controlling the filtering device 100 and a communicator 199 for communicating with the washing machines 10 and 10 a.

[0170] The filter device 100 may include a user interface device 197 located above the circuit module 190. At least a portion of the user interface device 197 may be exposed to the outside of the filter device 100 through the mounting portion 103b of the filter housing 101. The user interface device 197 may be located on the upper surface of the filter device 100. The user interface device 197 may include at least one input interface 197a and at least one output interface 197b. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the user interface device 197 may be disposed on the upper side, lower side, left side, right side, front side and / or rear side of the filter housing 101.

[0171] The at least one input interface 197a may convert sensory information received from a user into an electric signal.

[0172] At least one input interface 197a may include a power button, an operation button and / or a communication button. At least one input interface 16 may include, for example, a tactile switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial and / or a microphone.

[0173] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the power button may be a button for supplying power to the filter device 100, the operation button may be a button for operating the filter cleaning device 130, and the communication button may be a button for switching the state of the filter device 100 to achieve communication with an external device (e.g., a washing machine, a user device, a household appliance, etc.).

[0174] The at least one output interface 197 b may generate sensory information, thereby transmitting various types of information related to the operation and / or state of the washing machine 10 to the user.

[0175] For example, at least one output interface 197b may send information related to the inflow status of water into the filter device 100, the clogging status of the filter 120, the status of at least one sensor provided in the filter device 100, and the operating status of the filter cleaning device 130 to the user.

[0176] Various types of information regarding the operation and / or status of the filtering device 100 may be output through a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. The at least one output interface 197b may include, for example, an LCD panel, an LED panel, an LED module, a speaker, and the like.

[0177] The output interface 197b may be located on the upper surface of the filter device 100. However, the location of the output interface 197b is not limited thereto, and the output interface 197b may be provided on the front surface, the side surface, or the rear surface of the filter device 100.

[0178] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, at least one input interface 197a and at least one output interface 197b may be disposed on different surfaces of the filter housing 101. For example, at least one input interface 197a may be disposed on an upper surface of the filter housing 101, and the output interface 197b may be disposed on a front surface of the filter housing 101.

[0179] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the user can check various information about the operation and / or state of the filter device 100 through the output interface 197b on the front of the filter device 100 without approaching the filter device 100. In addition, according to the present disclosure, the user can easily input various commands through at least one input interface 197a provided on the upper side of the filter device 100 without lowering his or her body.

[0180] The filter device 100 may include a filter sensor 181 that obtains information about the state of the filter 120. The filter sensor 181 may be mounted on the filter housing 110. The filter sensor 181 may be located outside the filter housing 110. The filter sensor 181 may be positioned to correspond to the second filter portion 122 of the filter 120 mounted on the filter housing 110. For example, the filter sensor 150 may include a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor), and / or an ultrasonic sensor.

[0181] The filter sensor 181 may detect the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 .

[0182] The filter device 100 may include a water supply sensor 182 that detects water flowing into the filter device 100. The water supply sensor 182 may detect water flowing through the housing inlet 112a.

[0183] The water supply sensor 182 may be installed at the lower portion of the filter housing 110. The water supply sensor 182 may be positioned close to the housing inlet 112a of the filter housing 110. According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the water supply sensor 182 may be disposed inside the housing inlet 112a. For example, the water supply sensor 182 may include a capacitive sensor and / or a flow sensor.

[0184] refer to Fig. 9 , the filter housing 110 may include a residual water guide 119 that guides residual water present in the filter housing 110. The residual water guide 119 may be located below the filter 120 in the direction of gravity. For example, the residual water guide 119 may be tilted downward in the direction from the housing outlet 111b to the housing inlet 112a. The residual water guide 119 may be formed tilted at a predetermined angle g relative to a direction perpendicular to the gravity direction. The residual water guide 119 may prevent the water in the filter housing 110 from being discharged to the outside of the filter device 100 through the housing outlet 111b.

[0185] The position of the lower end of the inlet of the housing outlet 111b in the gravity direction may be higher than the position of the lower end of the housing inlet 112a in the gravity direction. The remaining water in the filter housing 110 may move from the periphery of the housing outlet 111b toward the housing inlet 112a under the action of gravity. For example, the bottom of the filter housing 110 between the inlet of the housing outlet 111b and the housing inlet 112a may include a stepped portion.

[0186] The housing inlet 112a may be located below the filter 120. The uppermost end of the housing inlet 112a in the gravity direction may be located below the uppermost end of the filter 120 in the gravity direction. The lowermost end of the housing inlet 112a in the gravity direction may be located below the lowermost end of the filter 120 in the gravity direction. The inlet of the housing outlet 111b may be located below the filter 120.

[0187] The filter housing 110 may include a connection opening 118. The connection opening 118 may be located at one end of the remaining water guide 119 close to the housing inlet 112a. The connection opening 118 may be formed in the filter housing 110 to discharge water guided by the remaining water guide 119 toward the housing inlet 112a.

[0188] The filter device 100 may include a closing and opening device 140 for opening or closing the connection opening 118. The closing and opening device 140 may include a connection door 141 and a door motor 142 for operating the connection door 141.

[0189] The connection door 141 can open or close the connection opening 118. The connection door 141 can be set to a size and / or shape that can close the connection opening 118. The connection door 141 can be rotatably coupled to the filter housing 110. The connection door 141 can rotate in the direction in which water flows from the remaining water guide 119 to the housing inlet 112a. The connection door 141 can be set to be able to rotate in the direction opposite to the direction in which the water introduced through the housing inlet 112a flows to the connection opening 118. The connection door 141 can be set to prevent the hydraulic pressure of the water introduced through the housing inlet 112a from opening the connection opening 118.

[0190] The door motor 142 may be configured to generate power for operating the connection door 141. The closing and opening device 140 may include a power transmission device 143 for transmitting power generated in the door motor 142 to the connection door 141. The power generated in the door motor 142 may be transmitted to the connection door 141 through the power transmission device 143.

[0191] Inside the filter housing 110, a filter flow path 116 passing through the filter 120 and a bypass flow path 117 bypassing the filter 120 may be formed. Water introduced through the housing inlet 112a may move to the housing outlet 111b through the filter flow path 116 or may move to the housing outlet 111b through the bypass flow path 117.

[0192] The connection opening 118 may be located at one end of the bypass flow path 117 close to the housing inlet 112a. When the connection door 141 opens the connection opening 118, water introduced through the housing inlet 112a may move directly to the bypass flow path 117 without passing through the filter flow path 116. When the connection door 141 opens the connection opening 118, water in the bypass flow path 117 may move directly to the housing inlet 112 without passing through the filter flow path 116. The connection opening 118 may be formed so that water in the bypass flow path 117 moves to the housing inlet 112a or water flowing into the housing inlet 112a moves to the bypass flow path 117.

[0193] Fig.10 is an exploded view of a circuit module of a filtering device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0194] refer to Fig.10 The circuit module 190 may include: a circuit 190a; a circuit housing 193 accommodating the circuit 190a; and an interface device cover 194 coupled to the circuit housing 193 so that at least one component coupled to the circuit 190a is exposed to the outside of the circuit housing 193.

[0195] The interface device cover 194 may include at least one opening formed so that the user interface device 197 electrically connected to the circuit 190 a may be exposed to the outside of the circuit housing 193 .

[0196] For example, the input interface 197 a may be exposed to the outside of the circuit housing 193 through the interface device cover 194 , and may be exposed to the outside of the filter device 100 through the mounting portion 103 b of the filter housing 101 .

[0197] For example, the output interface 197 b may be exposed to the outside of the circuit housing 193 through the interface device cover 194 , and may be exposed to the outside of the filter device 100 through the mounting portion 103 b of the filter housing 101 .

[0198] The circuit housing 193 may be disposed on the upper side of the filter housing 110. Therefore, the circuit 190a may be disposed on the upper side of the filter housing 110.

[0199] The circuit housing 193 may include an upper housing 193 a and a lower housing 193 b .

[0200] Since the circuit 190 a is disposed at the upper side of the filter case 110 , it is possible to prevent the circuit 190 a from being damaged by water discharged from the filter case 110 .

[0201] Circuit housing 193 (193a and 193b) may include mounting portions (eg, openings) for allowing electrical components of filter apparatus 100 (eg, cleaning drive device 135, at least one sensor 181 and 182, and power cable 109) to be connected to circuit 190a.

[0202] For example, the lower housing 193b may include at least one opening for allowing at least one sensor 181 and 182 to be electrically connected to the circuit 190a.

[0203] As another example, the lower housing 193b can include at least one opening for allowing the cleaning drive 135 to be electrically connected to the circuit 190a.

[0204] As another example, the lower housing 193b can include at least one opening for allowing the power cable 109 to be electrically connected to the circuit 190a.

[0205] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the upper housing 193 a may include at least one opening formed to allow the user interface device 197 to be exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101 .

[0206] For example, the upper shell 193 a may include at least one opening formed to allow the output interface 197 b to be exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101 .

[0207] As another example, the upper case 193 a may include at least one opening formed to allow the input interface 197 a to be exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101 .

[0208] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the output interface 197b may be covered by the bracket 197c.

[0209] Fig.11 A circuit of a filtering device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0210] refer to Fig.11 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the circuit 190a may include: a power supply 192 for receiving power; a controller 191 for controlling the operation of the filtering device 100; a sensor connector 195, to which at least one sensor 181 and 182 can be coupled; a motor connector 196, to which the cleaning motor 136 can be coupled; an input connector 197ac, to which the input interface 197a can be coupled; an output connector 197bc, to which the output interface 197b can be coupled; and a communicator 199.

[0211] The power supply 192 may be connected to an external power source to supply power to the circuit 190a.

[0212] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the power supply 192 may receive power from an external power source via the power cable 109 (see Figure 8 ).

[0213] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the filter device 100 may further include a battery (not shown), and the power supply 192 may receive power from the battery.

[0214] In the case where the filter device 100 includes a battery, the battery may be disposed on the rear side of the filter housing 110. In addition, in the case where the filter device 100 includes a battery, the power cable 109 may be omitted, and a port for charging the battery may be exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101. The port for charging the battery may be disposed in the housing bracket 104.

[0215] However, examples in which the power supply 192 receives power are not limited to the above examples. For example, in the case where the filter device 100 includes a power receiving coil, the power supply 192 may receive power from the power transmission coil through the power receiving coil.

[0216] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the washing machine 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a power transmission coil, and when the filter device 100 is installed at a position corresponding to the power transmission coil included in the washing machine 10, the filter device 100 may receive power from the power transmission coil included in the washing machine 10.

[0217] The controller 191 can control various components of the filter device 100 (e.g., the user interface device 197, the cleaning motor 136, and the communicator 199). For example, the controller 191 can control the communicator 199 to establish communication with an external device, control the output interface 197b to output certain information, or control the cleaning motor 136 to perform a cleaning operation.

[0218] The controller 191 may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom or memory and software such as a control program. For example, the controller 191 may include at least one memory 191b (see Fig.12 ) and at least one processor 191a (see Fig.12 ), the at least one memory 191b stores data in the form of an algorithm or program for controlling the operation of the components in the filtering device 100, and the at least one processor 191a performs the above operations and the operations to be described below by using the data stored in the at least one memory 191b. The memory 191b and the processor 191a can be implemented as separate chips. The processor 191a can include one, two or more processor chips, or can include one, two or more processing cores. The memory 191b can include one, two or more memory chips, or can include one, two or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory 191b and the processor 191a can be implemented as a single chip.

[0219] The sensor connector 195 may be connected to the at least one sensor 181 and 182 of the filtering device 100 to receive a sensor signal detected by the at least one sensor 181 and 182 .

[0220] The sensor signal received through the sensor connector 195 may be transmitted to the controller 191 .

[0221] For example, the sensor connector 195 may receive a sensor signal detected by the filter sensor 181. The filter sensor 181 may output a filter clogging signal in response to recognizing that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 exceeds a preset amount.

[0222] The controller 191 may receive a filter clogging signal output from the filter sensor 181 through the sensor connector 195 .

[0223] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the filter sensor 181 may transmit data regarding the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 to the controller 191 through the sensor connector 195 .

[0224] The controller 191 may receive data related to the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 from the filter sensor 181 through the sensor connector 195, and identify the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 based on processing of the data. The controller 191 may detect clogging of the filter 120 in response to recognizing that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 is greater than a preset amount.

[0225] As another example, the sensor connector 195 may receive a sensor signal detected by the water supply sensor 182. The water supply sensor 182 may output a water discharge sensing signal in response to detecting that water flows through the housing inlet 112a.

[0226] The controller 191 may receive a drainage sensing signal from the water supply sensor 182 through the sensor connector 195 .

[0227] The motor connector 196 may be connected to the cleaning motor 136 of the filter cleaning device 130 to send an electrical signal to the cleaning motor 136 .

[0228] The controller 191 may control the cleaning motor 136 connected to the motor connector 196 .

[0229] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the circuit 190a may further include a current sensor 133 (see Fig.12 ), used to measure the drive current applied to the cleaning motor 136 through the motor connector 196.

[0230] The controller 191 may identify the load of the cleaning motor 136 in response to the processing of data related to the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 .

[0231] The controller 191 may detect clogging of the filter 120 based on the load of the cleaning motor 136. For example, the controller 191 may detect clogging of the filter 120 in response to recognizing that the load of the cleaning motor 136 is greater than or equal to a preset load value for a preset time when the cleaning motor 136 operates.

[0232] That is, the controller 191 may detect the clogging of the filter 120 in response to recognizing that the driving current value applied to the cleaning motor 136 is greater than or equal to the reference value within a preset time.

[0233] The input connector 197ac may be connected to the input interface 197a (eg, a button) to receive an input signal generated by manipulating the input interface 197a.

[0234] For example, input connector 197ac may be electrically connected to a power button, an operation button, and / or a communication button.

[0235] Input signals received through input connector 197ac may be sent to controller 191 .

[0236] For example, a power signal generated in response to pressing a power button may be transmitted to the controller 191. The controller 191 may supply power provided from the power supply 192 to various components of the circuit 190a in response to receiving the power signal.

[0237] For example, an operation signal generated in response to pressing the operation button may be transmitted to the controller 191. The controller 191 may drive the cleaning motor 136 in response to receiving the operation signal.

[0238] For example, a communication signal generated in response to pressing a communication button may be transmitted to the controller 191. The controller 191 may activate the communicator 199 in response to receiving the communication signal.

[0239] The output connector 197bc may be connected to the output interface 197b to transmit a control signal to the output interface 197b.

[0240] The controller 191 may send a control signal to the output interface 197b through the output connector 197bc to control the output interface 197b to output the visualization information.

[0241] The communicator 199 may include at least one of a short-range wireless communication module or a long-range wireless communication module.

[0242] The communicator 199 may send data to or receive data from an external device (e.g., the washing machine 10, the server 2, the user device 3, and / or another home appliance). For example, the communicator 199 may establish communication with the washing machine 10, the server 2, the user device 2, and / or other home appliances, and send / receive various data to / from the washing machine 10, the server 2, the user device 2, and / or other home appliances.

[0243] To this end, the communicator 199 can establish a direct (wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel with an external electronic device (e.g., a server, a user terminal and / or a household appliance), and support communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communicator 199 may include a wireless communicator (e.g., a cellular communicator, a short-range wireless communicator, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communicator) or a wired communicator (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communicator or a power line communicator). The corresponding communicator among the communicators can communicate with the external electronic device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) Direct or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a telecommunications network such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a WAN). These various types of communicators can be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple independent components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0244] The short-range wireless communication module may include a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0245] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communications, and may include a mobile communicator that transmits and receives radio signals to and from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server 2 on a mobile communication network.

[0246] In an embodiment, the communicator 199 can communicate with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device 3, or other home appliances) through a nearby wireless access point device. The wireless access point device can connect the LAN to which the washing machine 10 and / or the user device 3 are connected to the WAN to which the server 2 is connected. The filtering device 100, the washing machine 10, and / or the user device 3 can be connected to the server 2 through the WAN.

[0247] Fig.12 is a control block diagram showing a filtering device according to an embodiment.

[0248] refer to Fig.12 , the filtering apparatus 100 may include a user interface device 197 , a filter cleaning device 130 , an opening / closing device 140 , a sensor 180 , a communicator 199 , and a controller 191 .

[0249] Components of the filter device 100 that are the same as those described above will be omitted in the following description.

[0250] The sensor 180 may include a filter sensor 181 and a water supply sensor 182 , and data and / or information obtained by the sensor 180 may be transmitted to the controller 191 .

[0251] The communicator 199 may transmit the information obtained by the filtering device 100 to the external device. For example, the communicator 199 may transmit the information obtained by the filtering device 100 to at least one of the washing machine 10 or the user device 3.

[0252] Sending information obtained by the filtering device 100 to at least one of the washing machine 10 or the user device 3 may include: directly sending the information obtained by the filtering device 100 to the washing machine 10 or the user device 3; and sending the information obtained by the filtering device 100 to at least one of the washing machine 10 or the user device 3 through the server 2.

[0253] The information obtained by the filtering device 100 may include information obtained by the sensor 180 and / or information obtained through the communicator 199 .

[0254] The information obtained by the filtering apparatus 100 may include information obtained by the filter sensor 181 , information obtained by the water supply sensor 182 , information obtained by the current sensor 133 , and / or information obtained from an external device through the communicator 199 .

[0255] The controller 191 may control the communicator 199 to transmit the information obtained by the filtering apparatus 100 to the external device in response to the information obtained by the filtering apparatus 100 satisfying a predetermined condition.

[0256] In an embodiment, the controller 191 may perform an operation corresponding to a control command in response to receiving the control command from an external device through the communicator 199 .

[0257] Fig.13 is a control block diagram illustrating a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user equipment according to an embodiment.

[0258] refer to Fig.13 , the communication system of the filtering device 100 according to the embodiment may include the filtering device 100 and the washing machine 10 .

[0259] According to various embodiments, the communication system of the filtering device 100 may further include a server 2 and a user device 3 .

[0260] The configurations of the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10 are the same as those described above, and thus the details thereof will be omitted.

[0261] The server 2 according to the embodiment may include a controller 210 and a communicator 220, the controller 210 controlling the operation of the server 2. The controller 210 may include at least one memory 210b and at least one processor 210a, the at least one memory 210b storing data in the form of an algorithm or program for controlling the operation of components in the server 2a, and the at least one processor 210a using the data stored in the at least one memory 210b to perform the above-mentioned operations and the operations to be described below.

[0262] The communicator 220 may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

[0263] According to an embodiment, the user device 3 may include a controller 310, a communicator 320, and a user interface device 330, the controller 310 controlling the operation of the user device 3. The controller 310 may include at least one memory 310b and at least one processor 310a, the at least one memory 310b storing data in the form of an algorithm or program for controlling the operation of components in the user device 3 and information of the user device 3, and the at least one processor 310a using the data stored in the at least one memory 310b to perform the above operations and the operations to be described below.

[0264] According to various embodiments, the user equipment 3 may include all types of electronic devices including at least some of the above-mentioned configurations and the configurations to be described below.

[0265] For example, the user device 3 may include various electronic devices such as smart phones, laptops, smart watches, Internet of Things (IoT) hub devices, other home appliances (eg, televisions), detachable tablet computers, and speakers.

[0266] The communicator 320 may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

[0267] The user interface device 330 may include an input interface 330a and an output interface 330b.

[0268] The input interface 330a may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0269] The output interface 330b may transmit various types of information to the user by generating sensory information.

[0270] The filtering device 100 , the washing machine 10 , the server 2 and / or the user device 3 may send or receive information to or from each other through corresponding communicators 96 , 199 , 220 and 320 .

[0271] A detailed method of transmitting or receiving information between the filtering device 100, the washing machine 10, the server 2 and / or the user device 3 through the corresponding communicators 96, 199, 220 and 320 will be described below.

[0272] According to various embodiments, the user may register user account information in the server 2 through the user device 3. The user account information may include user identification information and / or information about the user's home appliance.

[0273] According to various embodiments, at least one memory 210 b of the server 2 may store the user account information received from the user device 3 .

[0274] At least one memory 210b can store information about various devices associated with the user account (e.g., washing machine 10 and filtering device 100), and the user can control the various devices associated with the user account through user device 3, or can receive information collected from the various devices associated with the user account.

[0275] For example, the user can execute an application for managing home appliances through the user device 3 and establish a connection with the user's account to send various control commands to the home appliances associated with the account, or receive various types of information from the home appliances associated with the account.

[0276] Fig.14 An example of a state in which communication is established among a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0277] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 , the filtering device 100 , and the user device 3 may exchange information with each other via the server 2 through a WAN.

[0278] refer to Fig.14 , the wireless access point device 4 may have a slot capable of being connected to a wired communication cable, and may send and receive data to and from the server 2 through the wired communication cable.

[0279] The washing machine 10 may establish communication with the wireless access point device 4 through the communicator 96 (eg, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module).

[0280] The washing machine 10 may communicate with the server 2 through the WAN in response to establishing communication with the wireless access point device 4 .

[0281] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit identification information for identifying the washing machine 10 to the server 2. The identification information for identifying the washing machine 10 may be stored in the memory 92 and include at least one of a serial number of the washing machine 10, an Internet Protocol (IP) address of the washing machine 10, or a Media Access Control (MAC) address of the washing machine 10.

[0282] The filtering device 100 may establish communication with the wireless access point device 4 through the communicator 199 (eg, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module).

[0283] The filtering device 100 may communicate with the server 2 over the WAN in response to establishing communication with the access point 4 .

[0284] In an embodiment, the filtering device 100 may send identification information for identifying the filtering device 100 to the server 2. The identification information for identifying the filtering device 100 may be stored in the memory 191b, and may include at least one of the serial number of the filtering device 100, the IP address of the filtering device 100, or the MAC address of the filtering device 100.

[0285] The communicator 320 (eg, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module) of the user equipment 3 may establish communication with the wireless access point device 4 , thereby communicating with the server 2 through the WAN.

[0286] According to various embodiments, the communicator 320 (eg, a cellular communication module) of the user equipment 3 may communicate with the server 2 via the WAN without being connected to the wireless access point device 4 .

[0287] In response to the user establishing a connection with the user account after executing a predetermined application through the user device 3, communication between the user device 3 and the server 2 may be established.

[0288] In this case, the predetermined application may be an application for managing home appliances.

[0289] According to various embodiments, the server 2 may send a communication request message to the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 via the wireless access point device 4 in response to establishing communication between the user device 3 and the server 2 .

[0290] The washing machine 10 may send information to the filtering device 100 and / or the user device 3 via the server 2 .

[0291] For example, the washing machine 10 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 , and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the filtering device 100 and / or the user device 3 .

[0292] The filtering device 100 may send information to the washing machine 10 and / or the user device 3 via the server 2 .

[0293] For example, the filtering device 100 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 , and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the washing machine 10 and / or the user device 3 .

[0294] The user device 3 may send information to the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 through the server 2 .

[0295] For example, the user device 3 may transmit the predetermined information to the server 2, and the server 2 may transmit the predetermined information to the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100. In this case, the predetermined information may include a control command.

[0296] According to the present disclosure, the filtering device 100 , the washing machine 10 , and / or the user device 3 may transmit or receive various types of information to each other through the server 2 .

[0297] Fig.15a An example of a state in which communication is established between a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment is shown. Fig.15b An example of a state in which communication is established between a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0298] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 can establish communication with each other through the communicators 96 and 199 (e.g., a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module), and the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 can establish communication with the server 2 via the wireless access point device 4 through the communicator 96 or 199 (e.g., a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module).

[0299] refer to Fig.15a , the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 may establish communication with each other through the communicators 96 and 199 (eg, a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module).

[0300] That is, the filtering device 100 may be paired with the communicator 96 (eg, a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module) of the washing machine 10 through the communicator 199 (eg, a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module).

[0301] In an embodiment, the communicator 96 of the washing machine 10 may include a first communication module (e.g., a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module) for communicating with the communicator 199 of the filtering device 100 and a second communication module (e.g., a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module) for communicating with the server 2 through the wireless access point device 4.

[0302] On the other hand, the communicator 199 of the filtering device 100 may include only the first communication module for communicating with the communicator 96 of the washing machine 10 .

[0303] The washing machine 10 may send information to the user device 3 via the server 2 .

[0304] For example, the washing machine 10 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network (eg, WAN), and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network. At this time, the predetermined information may be information obtained by the filtering device 100.

[0305] The filtering device 100 may transmit information to the user device 3 through the washing machine 10 and the server 2. That is, the filtering device 100 may transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 via the washing machine 10.

[0306] For example, the filtering device 100 may send the predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through the first network (eg, Bluetooth communication network and / or BLE communication network), and the washing machine 10 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network. The server 2 may send the predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network.

[0307] The user device 3 may transmit information to the filtering apparatus 100 through the server 2 and the washing machine 10. That is, the filtering apparatus 100 may receive predetermined information from the user device 3 via the washing machine 10.

[0308] For example, the user device 3 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through the second network, and the washing machine 10 may send the predetermined information to the filtering device 100 through the first network.

[0309] According to the present disclosure, even if the filtering device 100 does not have a communication module for using the second network, the filtering device 100 can exchange information with the user equipment 3 .

[0310] refer to Fig.15b , the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 may establish communication with each other through the communicators 96 and 199 (eg, a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module).

[0311] That is, the filtering device 100 may be paired with the communicator 96 (eg, a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module) of the washing machine 10 through the communicator 199 (eg, a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module).

[0312] In an embodiment, the communicator 199 of the filtering device 100 may include a first communication module (e.g., a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module) for communicating with the communicator 96 of the washing machine 10 and a second communication module (e.g., a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module) for communicating with the server 2 through the wireless access point device 4.

[0313] On the other hand, the communicator 96 of the washing machine 10 may include only the first communication module for communicating with the communicator 199 of the filtering device 100 .

[0314] The filtering device 100 may send information to the user device 3 via the server 2 .

[0315] For example, the filtering device 100 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network (eg, WAN), and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network. At this time, the predetermined information may be information obtained by the filtering device 100 .

[0316] The washing machine 10 may transmit information to the user device 3 through the filtering device 100 and the server 2. That is, the washing machine 10 may transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 via the filtering device 100.

[0317] For example, the washing machine 10 can send predetermined information to the filtering device 100 through a first network (e.g., a Bluetooth communication network and / or a BLE communication network), the filtering device 100 can send predetermined information to the server 2 through a second network, and the server 2 can send predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network.

[0318] The user device 3 may transmit information to the washing machine 10 through the server 2 and the filtering apparatus 100. That is, the washing machine 10 may receive predetermined information from the user device 3 via the filtering apparatus 100.

[0319] For example, the user device 3 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the filtering device 100 through the second network, and the filtering device 100 may send the predetermined information to the washing machine through the first network.

[0320] According to the present disclosure, even if the washing machine 10 does not have a communication module for using the second network, the washing machine 10 may exchange information with the user device 3 .

[0321] Fig.16a An example of a state in which communication is established between a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment is shown. Fig.16b An example of a state in which communication is established between a washing machine, a filtering device, a server, and a user device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0322] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 can establish wired communication through the communicators 96 and 199 (e.g., wired communication modules), and the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 can establish communication with the server 2 via the wireless access point device 4 through the communicator 96 or 199 (e.g., WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module).

[0323] refer to Fig.16a , the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 may establish communication with each other through the communicators 96 and 199 (eg, wired communication modules).

[0324] That is, the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10 may be connected to each other in a wired manner.

[0325] In an embodiment, the communicator 96 of the washing machine 10 may include a third communication module (e.g., a wired communication module) for communicating with the communicator 199 of the filtering device 100 in a wired manner and a second communication module (e.g., a WLAN (Wi-Fi) module) for communicating with the server 2 through the wireless access point device 4.

[0326] On the other hand, the communicator 199 of the filtering device 100 may include only a third communication module for communicating with the communicator 96 of the washing machine 10 in a wired manner.

[0327] The washing machine 10 may send information to the user device 3 via the server 2 .

[0328] For example, the washing machine 10 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network (eg, WAN), and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network. At this time, the predetermined information may be information obtained by the filtering device 100.

[0329] The filtering device 100 may transmit information to the user device 3 through the washing machine 10 and the server 2. That is, the filtering device 100 may transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 via the washing machine 10.

[0330] For example, the filtering device 100 may send the predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through the wired communication network, the washing machine 10 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network.

[0331] The user device 3 may transmit information to the filtering apparatus 100 through the server 2 and the washing machine 10. That is, the filtering apparatus 100 may receive predetermined information from the user device 3 via the washing machine 10.

[0332] For example, the user device 3 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through the second network. The washing machine 10 may send the predetermined information to the filtering device 100 through the wired communication network.

[0333] According to the present disclosure, even if the filtering device 100 does not have a communication module for using the second network, the filtering device 100 can send information to the user device 3 or receive information from the user device 3 through the wired communication network.

[0334] refer to Fig.16b , the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 may establish communication with each other through the communicators 96 and 199 (eg, wired communication modules).

[0335] That is, the filter device 100 and the washing machine 10 may be connected to each other in a wired manner.

[0336] In an embodiment, the communicator 199 of the filtering device 100 may include a third communication module (e.g., a wired communication module) for communicating with the communicator 96 of the washing machine 10 in a wired manner and a second communication module (e.g., a WLAN (Wi-Fi) module) for communicating with the server 2 through the wireless access point device 4.

[0337] On the other hand, the communicator 96 of the washing machine 10 may include only the third communication module for communicating with the communicator 199 of the filtering device 100 .

[0338] The filtering device 100 may send information to the user device 3 via the server 2 .

[0339] For example, the filtering device 100 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network (eg, WAN), and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network. At this time, the predetermined information may be information obtained by the filtering device 100 .

[0340] The washing machine 10 may transmit information to the user device 3 through the filtering device 100 and the server 2. That is, the washing machine 10 may transmit predetermined information to the user device 3 via the filtering device 100.

[0341] For example, the washing machine 10 may send predetermined information to the filtering device 100 through the wired communication network, the filtering device 100 may send predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 may send predetermined information to the user device 3 through the second network.

[0342] The user device 3 may transmit information to the washing machine 10 through the server 2 and the filtering apparatus 100. That is, the washing machine 10 may receive predetermined information from the user device 3 via the filtering apparatus 100.

[0343] For example, the user device 3 may send the predetermined information to the server 2 through the second network, and the server 2 may send the predetermined information to the filter device 100 through the second network. The filter device 100 may send the predetermined information to the washing machine 10 through the wired communication network.

[0344] According to the present disclosure, even if the washing machine 10 does not have a communication module for using the second network, the washing machine 10 may transmit or receive information to or from the user device 3 through wired communication.

[0345] Fig.17 A state in which the washing machine and the filtering device according to the embodiment are connected in a wired manner is shown.

[0346] refer to Fig.17 , the filtering apparatus 100 may include a connector 108 for communicating with the user device 3 and a power cable 109 for receiving power from an external power source.

[0347] According to various embodiments, the connector 108 may be connected to the washing machine 10 .

[0348] When the connector 108 is connected to the washing machine 10 , wired communication between the filtering device 100 and the washing machine 10 may be established.

[0349] In an embodiment, the communicators 96 and 199 may include a wired communication module for forming a wired communication network.

[0350] According to various embodiments, the power cable 109 may be connected to a socket or to the washing machine 10 .

[0351] When the power cable 109 is connected to the washing machine 10 , the filter apparatus 100 may receive power from a power supply device of the washing machine 10 .

[0352] When the power cable 109 is connected to the socket, the filtering device 100 can receive external power.

[0353] Fig.18 A connection portion formed in a washing machine according to an embodiment is illustrated.

[0354] refer to Fig.18 , the washing machine 10 according to the embodiment may include a communication socket 108a and / or a power socket 109a.

[0355] The communication socket 108a and / or the power socket 109a may be installed in a hole provided at the rear side of the washing machine 10, and the hole may be opened and closed by a cover 109b.

[0356] According to various embodiments, the communication socket 108 a and / or the power socket 109 a may be provided on the washing machine housing 11 .

[0357] For example, the communication socket 108 a and / or the power socket 109 a may be provided on the rear side of the washing machine housing 11 .

[0358] In response to the connector 108 being inserted into the communication socket 108 a , a wired communication network may be formed between the filtering device 100 and the washing machine 10 .

[0359] That is, in response to the connector 108 being inserted into the communication socket 108a, the communicator 96 of the washing machine 10 and the communicator 199 of the filtering device 100 may exchange various types of information with each other in a wired manner.

[0360] In response to the power cable 109 being plugged into the power socket 109 a , the filter device 100 may receive power from the washing machine 10 .

[0361] That is, in response to the power cable 109 being plugged into the power socket 109 a , the power supply device of the washing machine 10 may supply power to the filtering apparatus 100 .

[0362] According to the present disclosure, since a separate socket for supplying power to the filtering device 100 is not required, user convenience may be improved.

[0363] In addition, according to the present disclosure, the filtering device 100 and the washing machine 10 may exchange information with each other through wired communication.

[0364] According to various embodiments, each of the washing machine 10 and the filtering device 100 may include various types of communication modules.

[0365] For example, the washing machine 10 may include the first communication module and the second communication module, and the filtering device 100 may include only the first communication module.

[0366] On the contrary, the filtering device 100 may include the first communication module and the second communication module, while the washing machine 10 may include only the first communication module.

[0367] As another example, the washing machine 10 may include the second communication module and the third communication module, and the filtering device 100 may include only the third communication module.

[0368] On the contrary, the filtering device 100 may include the second communication module and the third communication module, and the washing machine 10 may include only the third communication module.

[0369] As another example, the washing machine 10 may include the second communication module and the third communication module, and the filtering device 100 may include only the third communication module.

[0370] According to various embodiments, each of the washing machine 10 and the filtering device 100 may include a first communication module and / or a third communication module.

[0371] Fig.19 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for managing a filtering device according to an embodiment.

[0372] refer to Fig.19 , the server 2 may store information about the washing machine 10 ( 1910 ).

[0373] The information about the washing machine 10 may include various types of information for identifying the washing machine 10. For example, the information about the washing machine 10 may include a model name and / or an identification number (eg, a serial number) of the washing machine 10.

[0374] In an embodiment, the server 2 may directly receive the information about the washing machine 10 from the washing machine 10 through communication with the washing machine 10 , and may store the information about the washing machine 10 received from the washing machine 10 .

[0375] In an embodiment, the server 2 may receive information about the washing machine 10 from the user device 3 through communication with the user device 3 , and may store the information about the washing machine 10 received from the user device 3 .

[0376] In an embodiment, the server 2 may establish communication with the washing machine 10 , and the washing machine 10 may transmit a registration request signal for the washing machine 10 including information about the washing machine 10 to the server 2 based on establishing communication with the server 2 .

[0377] The server 2 may register the washing machine 10 in the user account and store information about the washing machine 10. Registering the washing machine 10 in the user account may include registering the washing machine 10 in association with the user account. Registering the washing machine 10 in association with the user account may include registering the information about the washing machine 10 in the server 2 so that the user account information registered in the server 2 and the information about the washing machine 10 are associated with each other.

[0378] According to various embodiments, after operation 1920 , operation 1910 in which the server 2 stores information about the washing machine 10 may be performed.

[0379] The server 2 may receive a registration request signal for the filtering device 100 ( 1920 ).

[0380] In an embodiment, the filtering device 100 may send a registration request signal for the filtering device 100 to the server 2 in response to establishing communication with the server 2. The registration request signal for the filtering device 100 may include information about the filtering device 100.

[0381] As will be described below, after establishing communication with the user device 3, the filtering device 100 can receive identification information of the wireless access point device 4 (for example, a password of the wireless access point device 4 and an Internet Protocol address of the wireless access point device 4) from the user device 3, and establish communication with the server 2 through the wireless access point device 4 based on the identification information of the wireless access point device 4.

[0382] As described above, the information about the filtering device 100 may include various information for identifying the filtering device 100. For example, the information about the filtering device 100 may include a model name and / or an identification number (e.g., a serial number) of the filtering device 100. The information about the filtering device may include an IP address of the filtering device 100 and / or a MAC address of the filtering device 100.

[0383] According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10 may transmit a registration request signal for the filtering device 100 to the server 2 upon establishing communication with the server 2 .

[0384] For example, washing machine 10 may receive information about filtering device 100 from filtering device 100 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module, and may send a registration request signal for filtering device 100 including information about filtering device 100 to server 2 using the second communication module.

[0385] In response to receiving the registration request signal for the filtering device 100 , the server 2 may register the filtering device 100 in the user account ( 1930 ).

[0386] Registering the filtering device 100 in the user account may include registering the filtering device 100 in association with the user account. Registering the filtering device 100 in association with the user account may include registering information about the filtering device 100 in the server 2 so that the user account information registered in the server 2 and the information about the filtering device 100 are associated with each other.

[0387] According to the present disclosure, since the filtering device 100 is registered in the server 2 to be associated with the user account, the filtering device 100 can be easily managed.

[0388] Upon registering the filter device 100 in the user account, the server 2 may transmit information on the washing machine 10 to the filter device 100 ( 1940 ).

[0389] In an embodiment, sending the information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 may include sending the information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 by the server 2 through the second communication network.

[0390] As will be described below, the filtering device 100 may use the information about the washing machine 10 received from the server 2 to modify an operating algorithm of the filtering device 100 .

[0391] According to the present disclosure, the filtering device 100 may perform an optimized filtering operation based on information about the washing machine 10 .

[0392] Fig. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method of registering a filtering device in a server according to an embodiment.

[0393] refer to Fig. 20 , communication between the filtering device 100 and the user equipment 3 may be established (S1).

[0394] According to various embodiments, the filtering device 100 and the user equipment 3 may communicate with each other through the first communication module, the second communication module and / or the third communication module.

[0395] For example, the filtering device 100 may operate in a soft access point (soft AP) mode using a second communication module (eg, a Wi-Fi Direct communication module).

[0396] The soft access point mode may be a mode capable of establishing device-to-device (D2D) communication with an external device through the second communication module.

[0397] When the filtering device 100 operates in the soft access point mode, the filtering device 100 may establish communication with the user equipment 3 .

[0398] As another example, the filtering device 100 may use a first communication module (eg, a Bluetooth communication module or a BLE communication module) to establish communication with the user equipment 3 .

[0399] When the user desires to register the filtering apparatus 100 in the server 2 , the user may execute a predetermined application (eg, an application for managing home appliances) through the user device 3 .

[0400] Based on the execution of the predetermined application, the user device 3 may provide a user interface for registering the home appliance.

[0401] The user interface for registering the home appliance may include an element for activating the communication module to establish communication with the filtering device 100 .

[0402] The user may operate the filtering device 100 in the soft access point mode using at least one input interface 197a (e.g., a communication button) of the filtering device 100. When the filtering device 100 operates in the soft access point mode, when the user selects an element for activating the communication module through the user device 3, communication between the filtering device 100 and the user device 3 may be established.

[0403] According to various embodiments, the user may use at least one input interface 197a (e.g., a communication button) of the filtering device 100 to activate a first communication module (e.g., a Bluetooth communication module or BLE communication) of the filtering device 100. When the first communication module of the filtering device 100 is activated, when the user selects an element for activating the communication module through the user device 3, communication between the filtering device 100 and the user device 3 may be established.

[0404] In response to establishing communication with the filtering device 100 , the user equipment 3 may send access point information for connecting to the wireless access point device 4 to the filtering device 100 .

[0405] The access point information may include at least one of an identification number of the wireless access point device 4 , a password of the wireless access point device 4 , an IP address of the wireless access point device 4 , and a MAC address of the wireless access point device 4 .

[0406] In addition, the access point information may also include at least one of an IP address of the server 2 and a MAC address of the server 2 .

[0407] The filtering device 100 may establish communication with the wireless access point device 4 based on the access point information received from the user equipment 3 , and may establish communication with the server 2 through the wireless access point device 4 ( S2 ).

[0408] The filtering device 100 can establish communication with the server 2 via the WAN.

[0409] The filtering device 100 may send a registration request signal for the filtering device 100 to the server 2 via the WAN ( S3 ).

[0410] The filtering device 100 may send a registration request signal for the filtering device 100 to the server 2 based on establishing communication with the wireless access point device 4 .

[0411] That is, the filtering device 100 may send a registration request signal for the filtering device 100 to the server 2 in response to establishing communication with the server 2 through the wireless access point device 4 .

[0412] The registration request signal for the filtering device 100 may include information about the filtering device 100 .

[0413] The server 2 may transmit a washing machine information request signal to the user device 3 based on the registration request signal for the filtering device 100 received from the filtering device 100 ( S4 ).

[0414] According to various embodiments, the server 2 may register the filtering device 100 in the user account based on receiving a registration request signal for the filtering device 100 from the filtering device 100 ( S8 ).

[0415] In an embodiment, the user device 3 may provide a user interface for inputting information about the washing machine 10 in response to receiving a washing machine information request signal while a predetermined application is running ( S5 ).

[0416] The user interface for inputting information of the washing machine 10 may include at least one of the following items: an interface for guiding the capture of an identification code (e.g., a QR code, a barcode, etc.) of the washing machine 10, an interface for guiding the capture of identification information of the washing machine 10 (e.g., an identification information writing sticker, etc.), an interface for guiding the direct input of identification information of the washing machine 10 through the input interface 330a, an interface for guiding the change of communication settings to establish communication with the washing machine 10, and an interface for guiding the selection of one of at least one washing machine 10 pre-registered in the server 2.

[0417] The user device 3 may obtain information about the washing machine 10 through electronic components (eg, the input interface 330 a , a camera, etc.) of the user device 3 ( S6 ).

[0418] For example, the user device 3 may obtain the information about the washing machine 10 by photographing a visual indicator (eg, a QR code, a barcode, a description of identification information) representing the information about the washing machine 10 using a camera.

[0419] As another example, the user device 3 may obtain information about the washing machine 10 based on text input through the input interface 330 a .

[0420] The user device 3 may transmit the obtained information on the washing machine 10 to the server 2 ( S7 ).

[0421] In an embodiment, the server 2 may register the filtering device 100 based on the information about the washing machine 10 received from the user device 3 ( S8 ).

[0422] The server 2 may register the filter device 100 in the user account so that the information of the filter device 100 matches the information on the washing machine 10 .

[0423] That is, the server 2 may recognize that the washing machine 10 corresponding to the information about the washing machine 10 received from the user device 3 is connected to the filtering apparatus 100 .

[0424] The server 2 may transmit information on the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 based on registration of the filtering device 100 in the user account ( S9 ).

[0425] According to various embodiments, the server 2 may transmit information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 in response to the filtering device 100 being registered in the user account.

[0426] According to various embodiments, the server 2 may transmit information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 in response to receiving a wash cycle start signal from the washing machine 1 when the filtering device 100 is registered in the user account.

[0427] According to the present disclosure, since the server 2 registers the washing machine 10 and the filtering device 100 as matching each other and transmits information of the matching washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 , it is possible to allow the filtering device 100 to recognize the washing machine 10 connected thereto.

[0428] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the filtering device 100 may set an optimal operation algorithm based on information about the washing machine 10 connected thereto.

[0429] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the server 2 may transmit the predetermined information to the filter device 100 stored matching with the washing machine 10 in response to receiving the predetermined information from the washing machine 10 .

[0430] That is, according to the present disclosure, the manageability of the filtering device 100 can be improved.

[0431] Fig.21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method of registering a filtering device in a server according to an embodiment.

[0432] Fig.21 Some operations S11, S12, S13 and S14 shown are similar to Fig. 20 Some operations S1, S2, S3, and S4 described in are the same, so their description will be omitted.

[0433] refer to Fig.21 , the user device 3 may provide a user interface for guiding activation of the communication module in response to receiving the washing machine information request signal while the predetermined application is running ( S15 ).

[0434] The user interface for guiding the activation of the communication module corresponds to an example of the user interface for inputting information on the washing machine 10 described in operation S5.

[0435] That is, the user interface for guiding activation of the communication module may include an interface for guiding change of communication settings to establish communication with the washing machine 10 .

[0436] The user may activate a communication module (eg, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE communication module, or an NFC communication module) of the user device 3 that communicates with the washing machine 10 through a user interface for guiding activation of the communication module.

[0437] Based on the user input, the communication module of the user device 3 may be activated ( S16 ).

[0438] In this case, the communication module activated based on the user input may be a communication module different from the long-distance communication module used to establish communication with the server 2. For example, the communication module activated based on the user input may be a short-distance communication module (e.g., a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE communication module, an NFC communication module, or an RFID communication module).

[0439] According to various embodiments, operation S15 may be omitted, and the communication module of the user device 3 may be automatically activated ( S16 ).

[0440] The user device 3 in which the communication module is activated may establish communication with the washing machine 10 ( S17 ).

[0441] The washing machine 10 may transmit information about the washing machine 10 to the user device 3 in response to establishing communication with the user device 3 ( S18 ).

[0442] When the type of the activated communication module corresponds to a short-distance communication module (e.g., an NFC communication module or an RFID communication module), the user device 3 may guide the user device 3 to mark a predetermined portion of the washing machine 10 through the output interface 330b. In this case, the predetermined portion of the washing machine 10 may be a portion in which a short-distance communication module is embedded, and the short-distance communication module stores information of the washing machine 10.

[0443] The user may tag the user device 3 in which the short-range communication module is activated to a predetermined part of the washing machine 10 , and thus the washing machine 10 may transmit information about the washing machine 10 through the short-range communication module.

[0444] According to various embodiments, the user device 3 may transmit a washing machine information request signal to the washing machine 10 in response to establishing communication with the washing machine 10 .

[0445] The user device 3 may transmit the information about the washing machine 10 to the server 2 in response to receiving the information about the washing machine 10 from the washing machine 10 ( S19 ).

[0446] Operations S20 and S21 are compared with reference Fig. 20 The described operations S8 and S9 are the same, so their description is omitted.

[0447] According to the present disclosure, the user may easily transmit information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering apparatus 100 through the user device 3 .

[0448] Fig. 22is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method of registering a filtering device in a server according to an embodiment.

[0449] refer to Fig. 22 , it can be seen that the information about the washing machine 10 has been stored in the server 2 .

[0450] The user may execute a predetermined application through the user device 3 and register the washing machine 10 in the user account.

[0451] Since the washing machine 10 is registered in the user account, information about the washing machine 10 may have been stored in the server 2 .

[0452] In an embodiment, before establishing communication between the filtering device 100 and the user device 3, information about the washing machine 10 may be stored in the server 2 (S30). Before establishing communication with the filtering device 100, information about the washing machine 10 may be stored in the server 2 (S30).

[0453] Thereafter, communication between the filtering apparatus 100 and the user device 3 may be established ( S31 ), and thus communication between the filtering apparatus 100 and the server 2 may be established ( S32 ).

[0454] Operations S31 and S32 are compared with reference Fig. 20 The described operations S1 and S2 are the same, so their description is omitted.

[0455] According to various embodiments, one or more washing machines 10 may be registered in a user account. That is, the server 2 may store information about the one or more washing machines 10.

[0456] The server 2 may transmit a washing machine selection request signal to the user device 3 based on the registration request signal received from the filtering apparatus 100 ( S34 ).

[0457] The user device 3 may provide a user interface for guiding selection of a washing machine among one or more washing machines 10 registered in the user account ( S35 ).

[0458] The user device 3 may receive a washing machine selection command through the user interface device 330 ( S36 ).

[0459] The user device 3 may transmit information about the washing machine 10 selected by the user input among the one or more washing machines 10 registered in the user account to the server 2 (S37). Since the information about the washing machine 10 is already stored in the server 2, transmitting the information of the washing machine 10 selected by the user input to the server 2 may include transmitting data for identifying the washing machine 10 selected by the user input.

[0460] According to various embodiments, when only one washing machine 10 is registered in the user account, operations S34, S35, S36, and S37 may be omitted.

[0461] There may be a case where the user has not registered the washing machine 10 to be connected to the filtering device 100 in the user account. Therefore, according to various embodiments, even if only one washing machine 10 is registered in the user account, operations S34, S35, S36, and S37 may be performed.

[0462] In the case where operations S34 , S35 , S36 , and S37 are performed even if only one washing machine 10 is registered in the user account, it may be checked whether the user desires to connect the washing machine 10 registered in the user account to the filtering device 100 .

[0463] Operations S38 and S39 are similar to those in reference Fig. 20 The described operations S8 and S9 are the same, so their description is omitted.

[0464] According to the present disclosure, in a case where the washing machine 10 has been registered in the user account, information about the washing machine 10 pre-stored in the server 2 may be transmitted to the filtering device 100 .

[0465] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, the user may easily associate the filtering device 100 with the washing machine 10 that has been registered in the user account.

[0466] Fig.23a An example of a user interface for obtaining information about a washing machine is shown. Figure 23b An example of a user interface for obtaining information about a washing machine is shown. Fig.23c An example of a user interface for obtaining information about a washing machine is shown.

[0467] exist Fig.23a , Figure 23b and Fig.23c In the figure, it is shown that Fig. 20 An example of a user interface provided by the user device 3 in operation S5 of .

[0468] exist Fig.23c In the figure, it is shown that Fig.21 An example of a user interface provided by the user device 3 in operation S15 of FIG.

[0469] refer to Fig.23a , a user interface for inputting information about the washing machine 10 may include: a visual indicator for setting a reference position for capturing identification information (e.g., a QR code and / or a barcode) of the washing machine 10; and a visual indicator for guiding the capture of identification information (e.g., a QR code and / or a barcode) of the washing machine 10.

[0470] The visual indicators may be implemented in the form of symbols, graphics, characters, texts, animations, etc., but examples of the visual indicators are not limited thereto as long as they are visual devices capable of conveying information.

[0471] refer to Figure 23b , a user interface for inputting information about the washing machine 10 may include: a visual indicator for setting a reference position for capturing a portion in which identification information of the washing machine 10 is described (e.g., a sticker attached to the washing machine 10); and a visual indicator for guiding capture of the portion in which identification information of the washing machine 10 is described.

[0472] refer to Fig.23c , the user interface for inputting information about the washing machine 10 (the user interface for guiding the activation of the communication module) may include: a visual indicator for guiding the activation of the communication module of the user device 3; and / or a visual indicator for guiding the activation of the communication module of the washing machine 10.

[0473] According to the present disclosure, by guiding and activating the communication modules of the user device 3 and the washing machine 10 , the user device 3 and the washing machine 10 may be switched to a state capable of communication.

[0474] Fig.23d An example of a user interface for selecting a washing machine 10 when there are washing machines 10 already registered in the server 2 is shown.

[0475] exist Fig.23d In the figure, it is shown that Fig. 22 An example of a user interface provided by the user device 3 in operation S35 of .

[0476] refer to Fig.23d , a user interface for guiding the selection of a washing machine from among one or more washing machines 10 registered in a user account may include: a visual indicator for indicating a list of one or more washing machines 10 registered in the user account; and / or a visual indicator for notifying that a washing machine 10 has been registered in the user account; and / or an element for receiving user input to register a new washing machine 10, and / or an element for receiving user input to postpone the selection of a washing machine 10.

[0477] The visual indicator for indicating the list of the one or more washing machines 10 registered in the user account may be a visualization of information about the one or more washing machines 10 registered in the user account.

[0478] The user device 3 may transmit information about the selected washing machine 10 to the server 2 in response to selecting a washing machine from the list of one or more washing machines 10 registered in the user account.

[0479] The user device 3 may provide a user interface for registering the new washing machine 10 in response to selecting an element for receiving a user input to register the new washing machine 10 .

[0480] The user device 3 may provide a user interface for selecting another method of obtaining information about the washing machine 10 or a user interface for checking that association with the washing machine 10 is cancelled in response to selecting the element for receiving a user input to postpone selection of the washing machine 10 .

[0481] According to the present disclosure, only through a simple selection of the user, information on the washing machine 10 associated with the filtering device 100 among the washing machines 10 registered in the user account may be transmitted to the filtering device 100 .

[0482] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, even during registration of the filtering device 100 in the user account, the user can easily register a new washing machine 10 in the user account.

[0483] Fig.24 An example of a user interface for notifying registration when registering a filtering device in a server according to an embodiment is shown.

[0484] In response to completing the registration of the filtering apparatus 100 , the server 2 may send a signal to the user equipment 3 for notifying the completion of the registration of the filtering apparatus 100 .

[0485] According to various embodiments, the user device 3 may provide a user interface for notifying the registration of the filtering apparatus 100 in response to receiving a signal for notifying the completion of the registration of the filtering apparatus 100 from the server 2 .

[0486] According to various embodiments, the user device 3 may provide a user interface for notifying registration of the filtering apparatus 100 in response to transmitting the information about the washing machine 10 to the server 2 .

[0487] refer to Fig.24 , the user interface for notifying the registered filtering device 100 may include a visual indicator for notifying the registered filtering device.

[0488] According to the present disclosure, the user may recognize that the filtering device 100 and the washing machine 10 are registered in the user account in association with each other.

[0489] Fig.25 is a flow chart illustrating a control command flow input through a user device according to an embodiment.

[0490] More specifically, Fig.25 2 is a flowchart showing a method in which a user controls the filtering device 100 through the user device 3 when the filtering device 100 has been registered in the server 2 .

[0491] refer to Fig.25 , the user can execute a predetermined application through the user device 3 and then input a control command for controlling the filtering device 100 .

[0492] The user device 3 may receive a control command to the filtering apparatus 100 through the user interface device 330 ( 2510 ).

[0493] The control commands for controlling the filter device 100 may include commands for operating the filter cleaning apparatus 130 .

[0494] In response to receiving a control command for the filtering device 100 from the user, the user device 3 may send the control command for the filtering device 100 to the server 2 ( 2520 ).

[0495] Sending a control command to the filtering device 100 to the server 2 may include sending data about a control target and data about an action to be performed.

[0496] In response to receiving the control command for the filtering device 100 from the user device 3 , the server 2 may send a control command to the filtering device 100 ( 2530 ).

[0497] Sending a control command to the filtering device 100 may include sending data regarding an action to be performed.

[0498] The filtering device 100 may perform an operation corresponding to the control command in response to receiving the control command from the server 2 .

[0499] For example, the filter apparatus 100 may operate the filter cleaning device 130 in response to receiving a command requesting operation of the filter cleaning device 130 from the server 2 .

[0500] Fig.26 is a flow chart showing a process of obtaining information from a filtering device according to an embodiment.

[0501] refer to Fig.26 , the filtering device 100 may detect a predetermined event ( 2610 ).

[0502] For example, the predetermined event may include at least one of clogging of the filter 120 , drainage start of the washing machine 10 , drainage stop of the washing machine 10 , or failure of a component (eg, at least one sensor 181 and 182 ) of the filtering device 100 .

[0503] Meanwhile, the predetermined event is not limited to the above-mentioned examples, and may include all types of events that can be detected by the filtering device 100 .

[0504] In an embodiment, a filter sensor may detect clogging of the filter 120 .

[0505] In an embodiment, the water supply sensor 182 may detect the inflow of water through the housing inlet 112 a. That is, the water supply sensor 182 may detect the start of drainage of the washing machine 10.

[0506] In an embodiment, the water supply sensor 182 may detect the stop of the inflow of water through the housing inlet 112a. That is, the water supply sensor 182 may detect the stop of the drainage of the washing machine 10.

[0507] In an embodiment, the filtering device 100 may compare information obtained from at least one sensor 181 and 182 with information obtained from an external device (eg, the washing machine 10 and / or the user device 3 ), and determine whether at least one sensor 181 and 182 fails as a result of the comparison.

[0508] In response to detecting the predetermined event, the filtering device 100 may send data related to the predetermined event to the server 2 ( 2620 ).

[0509] The data related to the predetermined event may include at least one of data indicating clogging of the filter 120 , data indicating drainage start of the washing machine 10 , data indicating drainage stop of the washing machine 10 , or data indicating failure of one component of the filtering device 100 .

[0510] In an embodiment, the controller 191 may control the communicator 199 to transmit data related to the predetermined event to the server 2 in response to detecting the predetermined event.

[0511] The server 2 may transmit the data related to the predetermined event to the user device 3 and / or the washing machine 10 in response to receiving the data related to the predetermined event from the filtering apparatus 100 ( 2630 ).

[0512] In an embodiment, the server 2 may send data related to the predetermined event to the user device 3 registered in the first user account and / or the washing machine 10 registered in the first user account in response to receiving data related to the predetermined event from the filtering device 100 registered in the first user account.

[0513] In an embodiment, the server 2 may send data related to the predetermined event to the user device 3 registered in the second user account and / or the washing machine 10 registered in the second user account in response to receiving data related to the predetermined event from the filtering device 100 registered in the second user account.

[0514] For example, the server 2 may transmit a drainage detection signal to the washing machine 10 registered in the user account in response to receiving the drainage detection signal from the filter device 100 registered in the user account.

[0515] As another example, the server 2 may transmit a filter clogging signal to the washing machine 10 registered in the user account in response to receiving the filter clogging signal from the filter device 100 registered in the user account.

[0516] According to the present disclosure, information exchange between devices registered in a user account can be smoothly performed.

[0517] Fig. 27 is a flow chart illustrating the flow of information obtained from a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0518] refer to Fig. 27 , the washing machine 10 may detect a predetermined event ( 2710 ).

[0519] For example, the predetermined event may include at least one of clogging of the filter 120 , start of drainage of the washing machine 10 , stop of drainage of the washing machine 10 , or failure of one component of the filtering device 100 .

[0520] Meanwhile, the predetermined event is not limited to the above-mentioned examples, and may include all types of events that can be detected by the washing machine 10 .

[0521] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 may detect clogging of the filter 120. The washing machine 10 according to an embodiment may detect clogging of the filter 120 (2310).

[0522] For example, the controller 90 may detect clogging of the filter 120 in response to the water level of the tub 20 changing less than or equal to a predetermined value per hour during the operation of the drain pump 73. To this end, the washing machine 10 may further include a water level sensor for detecting the water level of the tub 20.

[0523] As another example, the controller 90 may detect the clogging of the filter 120 in response to a load value of the drain pump 73 being greater than or equal to a predetermined value during operation of the drain pump 73 .

[0524] For example, the controller 90 may detect the clogging of the filter in response to a driving current value (or a driving voltage value) applied to the drain pump 73 being greater than or equal to a predetermined value for a predetermined period of time during operation of the drain pump 73 .

[0525] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 may detect the start of drainage of the washing machine 10 in response to an operation condition of the drainage pump 73 being satisfied, and detect the stop of drainage of the washing machine 10 in response to an operation stop condition of the drainage pump 73 being satisfied.

[0526] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 may detect a malfunction of at least one sensor 181 and 182 of the filter device 100 .

[0527] According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10 may compare information obtained from components of the washing machine 10 (e.g., the drain pump 73 and the sensor 95) with information obtained from external devices (e.g., the filtering device 100 and / or the user device 3), and determine whether at least one of the sensors 181 and 182 fails based on the comparison result.

[0528] For example, the controller 90 may determine that the water supply sensor 182 fails in response to not receiving a drainage stop signal from the filter device 100 even if a predetermined time has passed since the operation of the drainage pump 73 was stopped.

[0529] As another example, the controller 90 may determine that the filter sensor 181 is malfunctioning in response to not receiving a filter clogging signal from the filter device 100 even after sending the filter clogging signal to the filter device 100 and / or the user device 3 .

[0530] The washing machine 10 may transmit data related to the predetermined event to the server 2 in response to detecting the predetermined event ( 2720 ).

[0531] The data related to the predetermined event may include at least one of data indicating clogging of the filter 120 , data indicating start of drainage of the washing machine 10 , data indicating stop of drainage of the washing machine 10 , or data indicating failure of one component of the filtering device 100 .

[0532] In an embodiment, the controller 90 may control the communicator 96 to send data related to the predetermined event to the server 2 in response to detecting the predetermined event.

[0533] In response to receiving the data related to the predetermined event from the washing machine 10 , the server 2 may transmit the data related to the predetermined event to the user device 3 and / or the filtering apparatus 100 ( 2730 ).

[0534] In an embodiment, the server 2 may send data related to the predetermined event to the user device 3 registered in the first user account and / or the filtering device 100 registered in the first user account in response to receiving data related to the predetermined event from the washing machine 10 registered in the first user account.

[0535] In an embodiment, the server 2 may send data related to the predetermined event to the user device 3 registered in the second user account and / or the filtering device 100 registered in the second user account in response to receiving data related to the predetermined event from the washing machine 10 registered in the second user account.

[0536] For example, the server 2 may transmit a drainage start signal to the filter device 100 registered in the user account in response to receiving the drainage start signal from the washing machine 10 registered in the user account.

[0537] As another example, the server 2 may transmit a filter clogging signal to the filter device 100 registered in the user account in response to receiving the filter clogging signal from the washing machine 10 registered in the user account.

[0538] According to the present disclosure, information exchange between devices registered in a user account can be smoothly performed.

[0539] Fig.28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for managing a filtering device according to an embodiment.

[0540] According to different embodiments, the filtering device 100 may include only the first communication module and / or the third communication module but not the second communication module.

[0541] When the filtering device 100 does not include the second communication module, the filtering device 100 cannot directly communicate with the server 2 through the WAN.

[0542] In an embodiment, the filtering device 100 may establish communication with the washing machine 10 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module ( 2810 ).

[0543] In this case, communication between the filtering device 100 and the washing machine 10 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module may be defined as D2D communication.

[0544] The filter device 100 may transmit information about the filter device 100 to the washing machine 10 using D2D communication ( 2820 ).

[0545] The information about the filter device 100 may include identification information of the filter device (eg, a model name and / or a serial number).

[0546] The washing machine 10 may transmit information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 using D2D communication ( 2830 ).

[0547] The information about the washing machine 10 may include identification information (eg, a model name and / or a serial number) of the washing machine 10 .

[0548] According to the present disclosure, the filtering device 100 may set an optimal operation algorithm based on information about the washing machine 10 obtained through D2D communication.

[0549] In response to receiving the information about the filter device 100 from the filter device 100, the washing machine 10 may send a registration request signal for the filter device 100 to the server 2 using the second communication module (2840). In this case, the registration request signal for the filter device 100 may include identification information of the filter device 100. That is, the washing machine 10 may communicate with the server 2 using the second communication module not included in the filter device 100.

[0550] The server 2 may receive a registration request signal for the filter device 100 from the washing machine 10 ( 2850 ).

[0551] In response to receiving the registration request signal for the filtering device 100 , the server 2 may register the filtering device 100 in the user account ( 2860 ).

[0552] Registering the filtering device 100 in the user account may include storing information about the washing machine 10 and information about the filtering device 100 to be associated with each other.

[0553] According to the present disclosure, even if the filtering device 100 does not include the second communication module, the filtering device 100 may be registered in a user account, so that the manageability of the filtering device 100 may be improved.

[0554] Fig.29 is a diagram visualizing information flows among a filtering device, a washing machine, and a server according to an embodiment.

[0555] refer to Fig.29 , the filtering device 100 and the washing machine 10 may establish D2D communication through the first communication module and / or the third communication module ( S41 ).

[0556] The filter device 100 may transmit first information to the washing machine 10 (S42). The first information may include information obtained from the filter device 100. For example, the first information may include clogging information of the filter device 100, drainage detection information, or sensor failure information of the filter device 100.

[0557] The washing machine 10 may transmit the first information obtained from the filtering device 100 to the server 2 ( S43 ).

[0558] Although not shown in the drawings, the server 2 may store the first information. In addition, the server 2 may transmit the first information to an external device (eg, the user device 3).

[0559] The server 2 may transmit the second information obtained from the external device (eg, the user device 3 ) to the washing machine 10 ( S44 ). In this case, the second information may include a control command of the filtering apparatus 100 .

[0560] Since the information obtained from the washing machine 10 may be directly transmitted from the washing machine 10 to the filtering apparatus 100 through D2D communication, the second information may represent information obtained from an external device instead of information obtained from the washing machine 10 .

[0561] The washing machine 10 may transmit the second information received from the server 2 to the filtering device 100 ( S45 ).

[0562] When the second information includes a control command, the filtering apparatus 100 may perform an operation corresponding to the second information in response to receiving the second information.

[0563] For example, when the second information includes a control command requesting operation of the filter cleaning device 130 , the filter apparatus 100 may operate the filter cleaning device 130 in response to receiving the second information.

[0564] According to the present disclosure, even if the filtering device 100 does not include a communication module for communicating with the server 2 , the filtering device 100 may smoothly communicate with the server 2 through the washing machine 10 .

[0565] Fig.30 is a flow chart illustrating a control command flow input through a user device according to an embodiment.

[0566] refer to Fig.30 , the user device 3 may receive a control command of the filtering device 100 ( 3010 ).

[0567] In response to receiving the control command from the filtering apparatus 100 , the user device 3 may send a control command to the server 2 ( 3020 ).

[0568] For example, the user device 3 may provide a user interface for selecting a device to be a control target and an action required for the control target in response to executing a predetermined application, and the user device 3 may send a control command corresponding to the desired predetermined action to the server 2 in response to the filtering device 100 being selected as the control target device and the desired predetermined action being selected through the user interface device 330.

[0569] In response to receiving the control command of the filter device 100 from the user device 3 , the server 2 may send the control command of the filter device 100 to the washing machine 10 ( 3030 ).

[0570] The washing machine 10 may transmit the control command of the filtering device 100 received from the server 2 to the filtering device 100 using D2D communication ( 3040 ).

[0571] According to the present disclosure, the filtering device 100 which cannot directly communicate with the server 2 may receive a control command from the user device 3 through the server 2 and the washing machine 10 .

[0572] Fig.31 is a flow chart showing obtaining an information flow from a filtering device according to an embodiment.

[0573] refer to Fig.31 , the filtering device 100 may detect a predetermined event ( 3110 ).

[0574] because Fig.26 The description related to the scheduled event is redundant, so the description related to the scheduled event is omitted.

[0575] The filter device 100 may transmit data related to the predetermined event to the washing machine 10 in response to detecting the predetermined event ( 3120 ).

[0576] In an embodiment, the filtering device 100 may transmit data related to a predetermined event to the washing machine 10 through the first communication module and / or the third communication module.

[0577] The washing machine 10 may transmit data related to the predetermined event to the server 2 ( 3130 ).

[0578] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 may transmit data related to a predetermined event received through the first communication module and / or the third communication module to the server 2 through the second communication module.

[0579] The server 2 may transmit the data related to the predetermined event to the user device 3 in response to the data related to the predetermined event received from the washing machine 10 ( 3140 ).

[0580] In an embodiment, the server 2 may transmit data related to the predetermined event to the user device 3 registered in the first user account in response to the data related to the predetermined event received from the washing machine 10 registered in the first user account.

[0581] In an embodiment, the server 2 may transmit data related to the predetermined event to the user device 3 registered in the second user account in response to the data related to the predetermined event received from the washing machine 10 registered in the second user account.

[0582] Fig.32 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a filtering apparatus receives washing machine information from a user device according to an embodiment.

[0583] In an embodiment, the filtering device 100 may use the first communication module and / or the third communication module to establish communication with the user equipment 3 ( S51 ).

[0584] For example, the filtering apparatus 100 and the user device 3 may be paired with each other using Bluetooth communication. As another example, the filtering apparatus 100 and the user device 3 may be connected to each other using wired communication.

[0585] The filtering apparatus 100 may request information about the washing machine 10 from the user device 3 in response to establishing communication with the user device 3 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module ( S52 ).

[0586] In an embodiment, in a case where the information about the washing machine 10 is not stored in the memory 191 b , the filtering apparatus 100 may request the user device 3 for the information about the washing machine 10 .

[0587] The user device 3 may switch to be able to communicate with the washing machine 10 in response to receiving a request for information about the washing machine 10 from the filtering apparatus 100 .

[0588] For example, the user device 3 may activate the second communication module (eg, Wi-Fi Direct) and simultaneously use the first communication module and / or the third communication module to maintain communication with the filtering apparatus 100 .

[0589] As another example, the user equipment 3 may disconnect the communication established with the filtering device 100 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module, and search for a communication target using the first communication module and / or the third communication module.

[0590] The user device 3 may establish communication with the washing machine 10 ( S53 ).

[0591] For example, the user device 3 may establish communication with the washing machine 10 through the second communication module (eg, Wi-Fi Direct), while maintaining communication with the filtering device 100 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module.

[0592] As another example, the user device 3 may disconnect the communication established with the filtering apparatus 100 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module, and establish communication with the washing machine 10 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module.

[0593] The user device 3 may transmit an information request signal to the washing machine 10 in response to establishing communication with the washing machine 10 .

[0594] The washing machine 10 may transmit information on the washing machine 10 to the user device 3 in response to receiving the information request signal of the washing machine 10 from the user device 3 ( S54 ).

[0595] According to various embodiments, the washing machine 10 may transmit information about the washing machine 10 to the user device 3 using the first communication module, the second communication module, or the third communication module.

[0596] The information about the washing machine 10 may include identification information about the washing machine 10 .

[0597] The user device 3 may transmit the information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering apparatus 100 in response to receiving the information about the washing machine 10 from the washing machine 10 ( S55 ).

[0598] For example, when the user device 3 receives information about the washing machine 10 from the washing machine 10 through the second communication module (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct) and uses the first communication module and / or the third communication module to maintain communication with the filtering device 100, the user device 3 can send information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 through the first communication module and / or the third communication module.

[0599] As another example, after receiving information about the washing machine 10 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module, the user device 3 can disconnect communication with the washing machine 10 and send information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module.

[0600] According to the present disclosure, even if communication between the filtering device 100 and the washing machine 10 is not permitted, information on the washing machine 10 may be transmitted to the filtering device 100 using the user device 3 without intervention of the server 2 .

[0601] Fig.33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process in which a filtering apparatus receives washing machine information from a user device according to an embodiment.

[0602] In an embodiment, the filtering device 100 may use the first communication module and / or the third communication module to establish communication with the user equipment 3 ( S61 ).

[0603] For example, the filtering apparatus 100 and the user device 3 may be paired with each other using Bluetooth communication. As another example, the filtering apparatus 100 and the user device 3 may be connected to each other using wired communication.

[0604] The filtering apparatus 100 may request the user device 3 for information on the washing machine 10 in response to establishing communication with the user device 3 using the first communication module and / or the third communication module ( S62 ).

[0605] In an embodiment, in a case where the information about the washing machine 10 is not stored in the memory 191 b , the filtering apparatus 100 may request the user device 3 for the information about the washing machine 10 .

[0606] The user device 3 may provide a user interface for inputting the information about the washing machine 10 in response to receiving a request for the information about the washing machine 10 from the filtering apparatus 100 .

[0607] The user interface for inputting information about the washing machine 10 may be similar to the reference Fig.23a , Figure 23b , Fig.23c or Fig.23d The user interface is the same as that described in at least one of the figures.

[0608] User equipment 3 can Fig. 20 As described in operation S6 , information on the washing machine 10 is obtained ( S63 ).

[0609] The user device 3 may transmit the information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering apparatus 100 in response to obtaining the information about the washing machine 10 ( S64 ).

[0610] According to various embodiments, the information about the washing machine 10 may include identification information about the washing machine 10 .

[0611] The filtering device 100 may establish communication with the washing machine 10 based on the identification information of the washing machine 10 ( S65 ).

[0612] For example, the filtering apparatus 100 may disconnect the communication with the user device 3 and establish the communication with the washing machine 10 in response to receiving the identification information of the washing machine 10 .

[0613] According to the present disclosure, information about the washing machine 10 to be a communication target of the filtering device 100 may be transmitted to the filtering device 100 through the user device 3 , so that the filtering device 100 may be prevented from communicating with other devices except the washing machine 10 .

[0614] Fig.34 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method of registering a filtering device in a server according to an embodiment.

[0615] refer to Fig.34 , communication between the filtering apparatus 100 and the user device 3 may be established ( S70 ).

[0616] The user device 3 may transmit information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering apparatus 100 ( S71 ).

[0617] The filtering device 100 may establish communication with the washing machine 10 based on the information about the washing machine 10 ( S72 ).

[0618] because Fig.34 Some operations S70, S71 and S72 shown are similar to those in reference Fig.33 Some of the described operations S61, S62, and S64 are the same, so their description will be omitted.

[0619] The washing machine 10 having established communication with the filtering device 100 may transmit information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 (S73). The information transmitted from the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100 may include operation information of the washing machine 10. The operation information of the washing machine 10 is different from the identification information of the washing machine 10 and may include information about the operation progress of the washing machine 10.

[0620] For example, the operation information of the washing machine 10 may include information on the ongoing operation of the washing machine 10, information on whether the drain pump 73 of the washing machine 10 is operating, and the like.

[0621] The filter device 100 having established communication with the washing machine 10 may transmit information on the filter device 100 to the washing machine 10 ( S74 ).

[0622] The information about the filter device 100 may include identification information of the filter device 100 and / or operation information of the filter device 100 .

[0623] The washing machine 10 may transmit a registration request signal for the filter device 100 including information on the filter device 100 to the server 2 in response to receiving identification information of the filter device 100 from the filter device 100 ( S75 ).

[0624] The server 2 may register the filtering device 100 in response to receiving the request to register the filtering device 100 from the washing machine 10 ( S76 ).

[0625] According to the present disclosure, even when the filtering device 100 cannot communicate with the server 2 , the filtering device 100 can be registered in the server 2 .

[0626] According to the present disclosure, since some communication modules can be omitted from the filter device 100 , the production cost of the filter device 100 can be reduced.

[0627] Fig.35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method of controlling a filtering device according to an embodiment.

[0628] The filtering device 100 may receive information about the washing machine 10 ( 3510 ).

[0629] According to various embodiments, the filtering device 100 may receive information about the washing machine 10 directly from the washing machine 10 , or receive information about the washing machine 10 from the server 2 through the user device 3 , or may receive information about the washing machine 10 directly from the user device 3 .

[0630] The information about the washing machine 10 may include identification information about the washing machine 10 .

[0631] The filter device 100 may modify a predetermined operation algorithm based on the information about the washing machine 10 (3520). The filter device 100 may control the operation of the filter cleaning device 130 based on the operation algorithm modified according to the information about the washing machine 10 (3530).

[0632] Operating the filter cleaning device 130 based on the operation algorithm modified according to the information of the washing machine 10 may include adjusting an operation rate of the filter cleaning device 130 .

[0633] A preset operation algorithm may be stored in the memory 191b.

[0634] For example, the operation algorithm of the filter apparatus 100 may be preset to operate the filter cleaning device 130 according to a preset operation rate in response to detecting drainage of the washing machine 10 , and stop operating the filter cleaning device 130 in response to detecting that drainage of the washing machine 10 stops.

[0635] Meanwhile, the washing machine 10 may have different drainage algorithms depending on its model, and an operation algorithm of the filtering device 100 optimized for the various drainage algorithms is required.

[0636] For example, in the first model washing machine 10, the RPM of the drain pump 73 may be relatively low within two minutes after the start of drainage, and the RPM of the drain pump may be relatively high within the next 3 minutes. In the second model washing machine 10, the RPM of the drain pump 73 may be relatively high within two minutes after the start of drainage, and the RPM of the drain pump 73 may be relatively low within the next three minutes.

[0637] When the filter cleaning device 130 operates with a unified algorithm, whether the filter apparatus 100 is connected to the first model washing machine 10 or the second model washing machine 10 , it may be difficult to maximize the filtering effect with minimal energy.

[0638] According to the present disclosure, the filtering device 100 may receive information about the washing machine 10 connected thereto and modify a preset operation algorithm based on the information about the washing machine 10, and thus may anticipate a maximized filtering effect using minimal energy.

[0639] Fig.36 An example of a lookup table for modifying an operating algorithm of a filtering device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0640] refer to Fig.36 , a lookup table for modifying the operating algorithm of the filtering device 100 may be stored in the server 2 , the washing machine 10 and / or the filtering device 100 .

[0641] According to various embodiments, when a lookup table for modifying an operating algorithm of the filtering device 100 is stored in the server 2 and / or the washing machine 10 , the information about the washing machine 10 sent to the filtering device 100 may include operating algorithm information of the filtering device 100 corresponding to the information about the washing machine 10 .

[0642] On the other hand, when a lookup table for modifying the operation algorithm of the filter device 100 is stored in the filter device 100 , the filter device 100 may use the operation algorithm information of the filter device 100 corresponding to the information about the washing machine 10 .

[0643] The lookup table for modifying the operation algorithm of the filter device 100 may include identification information (eg, model name or serial number) of the washing machine 10 and the operation algorithm of the filter device 100 corresponding to the identification information of the washing machine 10 .

[0644] The operation algorithm of the filter device 100 may include at least one of an operation start time of the filter cleaning device 130 , an operation rate of the filter cleaning device 130 , or an operation end time of the filter device 100 .

[0645] The operation start time of the filter cleaning device 130 may be set based on the drainage start time of the washing machine 10 .

[0646] The operation rate of the filter cleaning device 130 may be set based on the RPM of the drain pump 73 corresponding to the model of each of the plurality of washing machines 10. The operation rate of the filter cleaning device 130 refers to an on / off duty ratio of the cleaning motor 136 of the filter cleaning device 130. For example, when the operation rate of the filter cleaning device 130 is 70%, the cleaning motor 136 may repeat the on / off operation based on a time ratio of 7:3.

[0647] The operation end time of the filter cleaning device 130 may be set based on the drainage end time of the washing machine 10 .

[0648] For example, an operation algorithm of the filter cleaning device 130 corresponding to the washing machine model A1, in which the drain pump 73 is driven at the maximum RPM from the start of draining to the end of draining, may be as follows.

[0649] [Operation Algorithm of the Filter Cleaning Device 130 Corresponding to the Washing Machine Model A1]

[0650] Operation start time of the filter cleaning device 130: the time point when the water supply sensor 182 detects water inflow

[0651] Operation rate of filter cleaning equipment 130: 100%

[0652] Operation end time of the filter cleaning device 130: the time point when the water supply sensor 182 detects that water stops flowing in

[0653] As another example, an operation algorithm of the filter cleaning device 130 corresponding to the washing machine model A2, in which the RPM of the drain pump 73 gradually increases after drainage starts, and the RPM of the drain pump 73 is normal, may be as follows.

[0654] [Operation algorithm of the filter cleaning device 130 corresponding to the washing machine model A2]

[0655] Operation start time of the filter cleaning device 130: time point when the water supply sensor 182 detects water inflow + ten seconds

[0656] Operation rate of filter cleaning equipment 130: 50%

[0657] Operation end time of the filter cleaning device 130: the time point when the water supply sensor 182 detects that water stops flowing in

[0658] As another example, an operating algorithm of the filter cleaning device 130 corresponding to the washing machine model A3 (wherein the RPM of the drain pump 73 gradually increases after the start of drainage, but the RPM of the drain pump 73 is relatively small, and the operation of the drain pump 73 stops after five minutes from the start of drainage regardless of the water level) may be as follows.

[0659] [Operation algorithm of the filter cleaning device 130 corresponding to the washing machine model A3]

[0660] Operation start time of the filter cleaning device 130: time point when the water supply sensor 182 detects water inflow + five seconds

[0661] Operation rate of filter cleaning equipment 130: 30%

[0662] Operation end time of the filter cleaning device 130: time point when the water supply sensor 182 detects water inflow + five minutes

[0663] The operation algorithm of the filter cleaning device 130 is not limited to the above-mentioned example, and may be set to an algorithm capable of performing an optimal filtering operation according to the drainage operation profile of the washing machine 10 .

[0664] The operation algorithm of the filter cleaning device 130 may be calculated by a learning model trained by a machine, or may be calculated by repeated experiments by an experimenter.

[0665] According to the present disclosure, the filtering device 100 may perform an optimized operation according to the identification information of the washing machine 10 .

[0666] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for managing the set filtering device 100 may include: the server 2 stores information about the washing machine 10; based on receiving a registration request signal for the filtering device 100, the server 2 registers the filtering device 100 in the user account; and based on registering the filtering device 100 in the user account, the server 2 sends information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100.

[0667] In addition, the method for managing the filtering device 100 may include: the washing machine 10 establishes communication with the server 2; the washing machine 10 sends a registration request signal for the washing machine 10 to the server 2, the registration request signal including information about the washing machine 10; and the server 2 registers the washing machine 10 in the user account.

[0668] In addition, the method for managing the filtering device 100 may further include: obtaining, by the user device 3 , information about the washing machine 10 ; and sending, by the user device 3 , the information about the washing machine 10 to the server 2 .

[0669] In addition, the method for managing the filtering device 100 may also include: based on receiving a registration request signal for the filtering device 100, the server 2 sends a signal requesting information about the washing machine 10 to the user device 3; and based on receiving the signal requesting information about the washing machine 10, the user device 3 provides a user interface for inputting information about the washing machine 10.

[0670] Furthermore, obtaining, by the user device 3 , the information about the washing machine 10 may include photographing, by the user device 3 , a visual indicator representing the information about the washing machine 10 using a camera.

[0671] In addition, obtaining, by the user device 3 , the information about the washing machine 10 may include receiving, by the user device 3 , the information about the washing machine 10 from the washing machine 10 through the short-range communication module.

[0672] In addition, the method for managing the filtering device 100 may also include: the filtering device 100 operates in a soft access point (soft AP) mode; when operating in the soft AP mode, the filtering device 100 receives access point information for connecting to a wireless access point device from a user device 3; based on the access point information, the filtering device 100 establishes communication with a wireless access relay device; based on establishing communication with the wireless access point device, the filtering device 100 sends a registration request signal for the filtering device 100 to the server 2.

[0673] In addition, the method of managing the filtering device 100 may further include modifying, by the filtering device 100 , a preset operation algorithm based on the information about the washing machine 10 .

[0674] Furthermore, modifying the preset operation algorithm based on the information about the washing machine 10 may include adjusting an operation rate of the filter cleaning device 130 based on the information about the washing machine 10 .

[0675] In addition, the method for managing the filter device 100 may further include: based on the server 2 receiving the drainage start signal from the washing machine 10 registered in the user account, the server 2 sends the drainage start signal to the filter device 100 registered in the user account.

[0676] In addition, the method for managing the filter device 100 may further include: based on the server receiving the drainage detection signal from the filter device 100 registered in the user account, the server 2 sends the drainage detection signal to the washing machine 10 registered in the user account.

[0677] In addition, the method for managing the filter device 100 may further include: based on the server receiving the filter clogging signal from the washing machine 10 registered in the user account, the server 2 sends the filter clogging signal to the filter device 100 registered in the user account.

[0678] In addition, the method for managing the filter device 100 may further include: based on the server 2 receiving the filter clogging signal from the filter device 100 registered in the user account, the server 2 sends the filter clogging signal to the washing machine 10 registered in the user account.

[0679] A method for managing a filtering device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: the washing machine 10 establishes communication with the filtering device 100 through a wired communication module or a short-range communication module; the washing machine 10 receives information about the filtering device 100 from the filtering device 100; the washing machine 10 sends information about the washing machine 10 to the filtering device 100; the washing machine 10 sends a registration request signal for the filtering device 100 to a server 2, the registration request signal including information about the filtering device 100; based on the receipt of the registration request signal for the filtering device 100, the server 2 registers the filtering device 100 in a user account.

[0680] In addition, the method for managing the filtering device 100 may also include: based on the washing machine 10 receiving a filter blockage signal from the filtering device 100, the washing machine 10 sends the filter blockage signal to the server 2; based on the server 2 receiving a filter blockage signal from the washing machine 10, the server 2 sends the filter blockage signal to the user device 3 corresponding to the user account.

[0681] In addition, the method for managing the filtering device 100 may also include: based on the washing machine 10 receiving a drainage detection signal from the filtering device 100, the washing machine sends the drainage detection signal to the server 2; based on the server 2 receiving the drainage detection signal from the washing machine 10, the server 2 sends the drainage detection signal to the user device 3 corresponding to the user account.

[0682] In addition, the method for managing the filtering device 100 may also include: a user device 3 corresponding to the user account sends a control signal for controlling the filtering device 100 registered in the user account to the server 2; based on the server 2 receiving the control signal from the user device 3, the server 3 sends a control signal to the washing machine 10 registered in the user account; and based on the washing machine 10 receiving the control signal from the server 2, the washing machine 10 sends a control signal to the filtering device 100.

[0683] In addition, the method of managing the filtering device 100 may further include modifying, by the filtering device 100 , a preset operation algorithm based on the information about the washing machine 10 .

[0684] Furthermore, modifying the preset operation algorithm based on the information about the washing machine 10 may include adjusting an operation rate of the filter cleaning device 130 based on the information about the washing machine 10 .

[0685] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the filtering device 100 may include: a housing 101; a filter housing 110, which is arranged inside the housing 101 and has an inlet 112a and an outlet 111b; a filter 120, which is detachably mounted to the filter housing 110; a filter cleaning device 130, including a cleaning member 131 and a cleaning motor 136, wherein the cleaning member 131 is configured to rotate while contacting the surface of the filter 120 that filters foreign matter, and the cleaning motor 136 is configured to rotate the cleaning member 131; and a circuit 190a, which is located between the housing 101 and the filter housing 110 and includes a controller 191 and a communicator 199, wherein the controller 191 is configured to: receive information about the washing machine 10 from the external devices 2 and 3 through the communicator 199, and control the operation of the filter cleaning device 130 based on the information about the washing machine 10.

[0686] At the same time, the disclosed embodiments can be embodied in the form of a recording medium storing instructions that can be executed by a computer. These instructions can be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, a program module can be generated to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium can be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0687] The computer-readable recording medium includes all kinds of recording media storing instructions that can be decoded by a computer, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tapes, magnetic disks, flash memories, optical data storage devices, and the like.

[0688] In addition, the computer-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-temporary storage medium. Here, when the storage medium is referred to as "non-temporary", it can be understood that the storage medium is tangible and does not include a signal (electromagnetic wave), but data is semi-permanently or temporarily stored in the storage medium. For example, the "non-temporary storage medium" may include a buffer that temporarily stores data.

[0689] According to an embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online through an application store (e.g., Play StoreTM). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least semi-permanently stored in a storage medium (such as a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a memory of a relay server) or may be temporarily generated in the storage medium.

[0690] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that these inventive concepts may be implemented in different forms without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

Claims

1. A method for managing a filtering device, the filtering device being positionable outside a washing machine and being connectable to a drainage device of the washing machine to filter water drained from the washing machine, the method comprising: The server stores the information of the washing machine; Based on receiving a registration request signal for registering the filtering device, the server registers the filtering device in association with a user account; as well as Based on the registration of the filter device in association with the user account, the server sends the information of the washing machine to the filter device.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The washing machine establishes communication with the server; The washing machine sends a registration request signal for registering the washing machine to the server, wherein the registration request signal includes information of the washing machine; as well as The washing machine is registered by the server in association with the user account, so that information of the washing machine and information of the filter device are associated with each other through the user account.

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Obtaining information of the washing machine by a user device; as well as The user device sends the information of the washing machine to the server.

4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising: Based on receiving a registration request signal for registering the filter device, the server sends a signal requesting information of the washing machine to the user device; as well as Based on receiving the signal requesting the information of the washing machine, a user interface for inputting the information of the washing machine is provided by the user device.

5. The method according to claim 3, wherein: Obtaining, by the user device, the information of the washing machine includes: photographing, by the user device, a visual indicator representing the information of the washing machine using a camera.

6. The method according to claim 3, wherein: The user equipment obtaining the information of the washing machine includes: The user equipment receives the information of the washing machine from the washing machine through a short-distance communication module.

7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The filtering device operates in a soft access point "soft AP" mode; When the filtering device is operating in the soft AP mode, the filtering device receives access point information for connecting the filtering device to a wireless access point device from a user equipment; The filtering device establishes communication with the wireless access relay device based on the received access point information; as well as Based on establishing communication with the wireless access point device, the filtering device sends a registration request signal for registering the filtering device with the server.

8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Based on the information of the washing machine, a preset operation algorithm is modified by the filtering device.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: Modifying the preset operation algorithm based on the information of the washing machine includes: Based on the information of the washing machine, an operation rate of the filter cleaning device is adjusted.

10. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Based on the server receiving the drainage start signal from the washing machine registered in association with the user account, the server sends the drainage start signal to the filter device registered in association with the user account.

11. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Based on the server receiving the drainage detection signal from the filter device registered in association with the user account, the server sends the drainage detection signal to the washing machine registered in association with the user account.

12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: based on the server receiving a filter clogging signal from a washing machine registered in association with the user account, The filter blocking signal is sent by the server to a filtering device registered in association with the user account.

13. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: based on the server receiving a filter blockage signal from a filtering device registered in association with the user account, The filter clogging signal is sent by the server to a washing machine registered in association with the user account.

14. A method of managing a filtering device, the filtering device being positionable outside a washing machine and being connectable to a drain device of the washing machine to filter water drained from the washing machine, the method comprising: establishing communication between the filtering device and the washing machine through a wired communication module or a short-distance communication module; The washing machine receives information of the filter device from the filter device through communication established between the washing machine and the filter device; The washing machine sends the information of the washing machine to the filtering device; The washing machine sends a registration request signal for registering the filter device to a server, wherein the registration request signal includes information of the filter device; as well as Based on receiving a registration request signal for registering the filtering device, the server registers the filtering device in association with a user account.

15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: Based on the washing machine receiving the filter blockage signal from the filter device, the washing machine sends the filter blockage signal to the server; as well as Based on the server receiving the filter clogging signal from the washing machine, the server sends the filter clogging signal to a user device associated with the user account.

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