Washing machine and control method thereof

Abstract

According to one aspect of the present invention, a washing machine comprises: a main body; a tub provided inside the main body and containing wash water; a drum rotatably provided inside the tub; the driving device provides power for rotation of the roller and comprises a coupler for controlling the rotating speed of the roller and a solenoid for changing the position of the coupler; a circulation pump that circulates the water in the tub and supplies the water to the inside of the drum; and a control unit that controls operation of the driving device and the circulation pump. During operation of the circulation pump, the control unit can control the solenoid to change the position of the coupler.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Generally, a washing machine includes a tub and a drum rotatably installed in the tub, and can wash laundry by rotating the drum containing the laundry inside the tub. The washing machine can perform a washing process for washing the laundry, a rinsing process for rinsing the washed laundry, and a dehydration process for dehydrating the laundry.

[0003] In particular, during the dehydration process, water absorbed in the laundry may be separated from the laundry by accelerating and decelerating the drum containing the laundry at a high speed.

[0004] Unlike other processes, the dehydration process has a high-speed drum, so noise may be generated when adjusting the speed of the drum. Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] The present disclosure aims to provide a washing machine and a control method thereof, which can mask the clutch position switching noise with the circulation operation noise by performing the clutch position switching for controlling the rotation speed of the drum when the circulation pump is operating, so that the user will not notice the clutch position switching noise.

[0007] Technical Solution

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a washing machine, comprising: a tub for containing washing water; a drum located in the tub; a drive device configured to rotate the drum, the drive device comprising a connector and a solenoid, the connector being configured to move between a first position and a second position to adjust a rotation speed of the drum, the solenoid being configured to move the connector between the first position and the second position in response to a current flowing through the solenoid; a circulation pump being configured to operate to circulate the washing water in the tub; and a controller being configured to determine when the circulation pump is operating and to control the current flowing through the solenoid to move the connector between the first position and the second position when it is determined that the circulation pump is operating.

[0009] The controller may be configured to change the current by changing the direction of current supplied to the solenoid between a first direction and a second direction, and control the current flowing through the solenoid to move the coupling between the first position and the second position.

[0010] The controller can be configured to: control the drive device to rotate the drum for multiple rotation cycles, and when the circulation pump is operating during a washing process or a rinsing process, before the last rotation cycle of the multiple rotation cycles of the drum begins, control the current flowing through the solenoid to move the connector between the first position and the second position.

[0011] The controller may be configured to begin operating the circulation pump before controlling current through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position, and to stop operating the circulation pump after controlling current through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position.

[0012] The controller may be configured to operate the circulation pump during a washing cycle or a rinsing cycle.

[0013] The plurality of rotation cycles of the drum may include cycles in which the drum rotates alternately clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW).

[0014] The controller can be configured to: control the drive device to rotate the drum for multiple rotation cycles, and can be configured to control the current flowing through the solenoid to move the connector between the first position and the second position after the first rotation cycle of the multiple rotation cycles of the drum is completed when it is determined that the circulation pump is operating during a washing process or a rinsing process.

[0015] The controller may be configured to begin operating the circulation pump before controlling current through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position, and to stop operating the circulation pump after controlling current through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position.

[0016] The controller may be configured to operate the circulation pump during a washing process or a rinsing process.

[0017] The plurality of rotation cycles of the drum may include cycles in which the drum rotates alternately clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW).

[0018] The controller can be configured to: in response to switching the washing process or the rinsing process to the dehydration process, change the direction of the current supplied to the solenoid to move the connector from the second position to the first position, and in response to switching the dehydration process to the washing process or the rinsing process, change the direction of the current supplied to the solenoid to move the connector from the first position to the second position.

[0019] When the drive device rotates the drum, the drum may be configured to rotate at a first speed when the coupling is positioned in the first position, and to rotate at a second speed when the coupling is positioned in the second position. The first speed may be higher than the second speed.

[0020] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a control method for a washing machine, which includes a barrel for containing washing water, a drum located in the barrel, a circulation pump configured to operate to circulate the washing water in the barrel, and a driving device configured to rotate the drum, the driving device including a connector and a solenoid, the connector configured to move between a first position and a second position to adjust the rotation speed of the drum, the solenoid configured to move the connector between the first position and the second position in response to current flowing through the solenoid, the control method including: determining when the circulation pump is operating; and when the circulation pump is determined to be operating, controlling the current flowing through the solenoid to move the connector between the first position and the second position.

[0021] Controlling may include changing the direction of current supplied to the solenoid.

[0022] The control method may include utilizing a driving device to rotate the drum for a plurality of rotation cycles; and the control may include: when it is determined that the circulation pump is operating during a washing process or a rinsing process, before the start of a last rotation cycle of the plurality of rotation cycles of the drum, controlling the current flowing through the solenoid to move the connector between a first position and a second position.

[0023] Controlling may include operating a circulation pump prior to changing the position of the coupling.

[0024] Controlling may include operating a circulation pump during a wash cycle or a rinse cycle.

[0025] The plurality of rotation cycles of the drum may include cycles in which the drum rotates alternately clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW).

[0026] The control method may include rotating the drum using a driving device for multiple rotation cycles; and the control may include: when it is determined that the circulation pump is operating in a washing process or a rinsing process, after the first rotation cycle of the multiple rotation cycles of the drum is completed, controlling the current flowing through the solenoid to move the connector between a first position and a second position.

[0027] Controlling may include operating a circulation pump prior to controlling the current through the solenoid to move the coupling between the first position and the second position.

[0028] The controlling may include operating a circulation pump during a washing process or a rinsing process.

[0029] The plurality of rotation cycles of the drum may include cycles in which the drum rotates alternately clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW).

[0030] The control may include: in response to switching the washing process or the rinsing process to the dehydration process, changing the direction of the current supplied to the solenoid to move the connector from the second position to the first position, and in response to switching the dehydration process to the washing process or the rinsing process, changing the direction of the current supplied to the solenoid to move the connector from the first position to the second position.

[0031] The controlling may include rotating the drum at a first speed using the driving device when the coupling is in the first position, and rotating the drum at a second speed using the driving device when the coupling is in the second position. The first speed may be higher than the second speed.

[0032] Beneficial Effects

[0033] According to aspects of the present disclosure, a washing machine and a control method thereof can mask clutch position switching noise with circulation operation noise by performing clutch position switching for controlling the rotation speed of a drum when a circulation pump operates, thereby making the clutch position switching noise imperceptible to a user. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 is a view showing an appearance of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 2 is a side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a driving device according to an embodiment.

[0037] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the drive device shown in FIG.

[0038] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the drive device shown in FIG.

[0039] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Exploded view of the coupling, stator and rotor shown in .

[0040] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A cross-sectional perspective view of a coupling and a stator coupled to each other is shown in FIG.

[0041] Figure 8 Among them Figure 4 A cross-sectional perspective view of the coupling and the rotor shown in FIG. 1 coupled to each other.

[0042] Fig. 9 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0043] Fig.10An example of an operation cycle of a washing machine according to an embodiment is shown.

[0044] Figures 11 to 14 is a diagram illustrating position switching of a clutch during operation of a circulation pump according to an embodiment.

[0045] Fig.15 is a graph showing the noise level generated during cycle operation and clutch position switching.

[0046] Fig.16 is a flowchart of a control method of a washing machine according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] The various embodiments and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technology of the present disclosure to a specific form, and it should be understood that the present disclosure includes various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives to the various embodiments.

[0048] In describing the drawings, like reference numerals may be used to designate like constituent elements.

[0049] An expression in a singular form may include an expression in a plural form unless otherwise specified herein or the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0050] The terms "A or B", "at least one of A or / and B", "one or more of A or / and B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B or / and C", "one or more of A, B or / and C" and similar terms used herein may include any and all combinations of one or more of the listed relevant items.

[0051] The term "and / or" includes a combination of a plurality of related items or any one of the plurality of related items.

[0052] Herein, the terms “first”, “second”, etc. may be used merely to distinguish an element from other elements, but are not limited to any other aspects (eg, importance or sequence) of the elements.

[0053] When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being "(functionally or communicatively) coupled" or "connected" to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element directly (e.g., by wire), wirelessly, or through a third element.

[0054] In the present disclosure, terms such as “including”, “having”, etc. are used to list features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, parts, or combinations thereof, but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more features, elements, steps, operations, elements, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0055] When it is said that one element is “connected,” “coupled,” “supported” or “contacted” to another element, this includes not only the case where the elements are directly connected, coupled, supported or contacted, but also the case where the elements are indirectly connected, coupled, supported or contacted via a third element.

[0056] Throughout the description, when an element is “located on” another element, this includes not only a case where the element is in contact with the other element but also a case where other elements are present between the two elements.

[0057] The washing machine according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, dehydration and drying processes. The washing machine is an example of a clothing care device, which is a concept including a device capable of washing clothes (objects to be washed and laundry to be dried), a device capable of drying laundry, and a device capable of washing and drying laundry.

[0058] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for inserting or removing laundry is disposed upward or a front-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet is disposed forward. The washing machine according to various embodiments may also include a washing machine having a loading type different from that of the top-loading washing machine and the front-loading washing machine.

[0059] In a top-loading washing machine, the laundry may be washed using a water flow generated by a rotating body such as an agitator. In a front-loading washing machine, the laundry may be washed by repeatedly lifting and lowering the laundry by rotating a drum. The front-loading washing machine may include a combined drying washing machine capable of drying the laundry stored in the drum. The combined drying washing machine may include a hot air supply device that provides high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device that removes moisture from the air exhausted from the drum. For example, the combined drying washing machine may include a heat pump device. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines that use washing methods other than the above-mentioned washing methods.

[0060] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a housing in which various components are accommodated. The housing may be provided in the form of a box including a laundry inlet at one side thereof.

[0061] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the washing inlet. The door may be rotatably mounted on the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing can be seen.

[0062] The washing machine may include a tub arranged inside the housing to store water. The tub may be substantially cylindrical, with a tub opening formed on one side thereof. The tub may be arranged inside the housing so that the tub opening corresponds to the washing inlet.

[0063] The drum may be connected to the housing via a shock absorber, which may absorb vibrations generated when the drum rotates, and the shock absorber may reduce the vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0064] A washing machine may include a drum for containing laundry.

[0065] The drum can be arranged in the barrel in such a way that the drum opening arranged on one side of the drum corresponds to the laundry inlet and the barrel opening. The laundry can pass through the laundry inlet, the barrel opening and the drum opening in sequence, and then be contained in the drum or taken out from the drum.

[0066] The drum may perform each operation according to washing, rinsing and / or dehydration while rotating in the tub. A plurality of through holes may be formed on the cylindrical wall of the drum to allow water stored in the tub to be introduced into the drum or drained from the drum.

[0067] The washing machine may include a driving device configured to rotate the drum. The driving device may include a driving motor and a rotating shaft that transmits the driving force generated by the driving motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may penetrate the tub to be connected to the drum.

[0068] The driving device may perform respective operations according to a washing, rinsing and / or dehydration or drying process by rotating the drum in a forward or backward direction.

[0069] The washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve disposed 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 the detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be provided to the tub through the detergent supply device. Alternatively, water may be provided to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0070] The water supply valve may open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the controller. The water supply valve may allow or prevent water from being provided to the tub from an external water supply source. The water supply valve may include a solenoid valve configured to open and close in response to an electrical signal.

[0071] The washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to provide detergent to the barrel. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to input the detergent used for each washing and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically inputs a predetermined amount of detergent during the washing process. The detergent supply device may include a detergent box for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to provide detergent to the barrel during the water supply process. The water supplied by the water supply pipe may be mixed with the detergent by the detergent supply device. The water mixed with the detergent may be provided to the barrel. Detergent is used as a term including pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent box may be divided into a storage area for pre-wash detergent, a storage area for main wash detergent, a storage area for fabric softener, and a storage area for bleach.

[0072] The washing machine may include a drain device configured to drain water in the tub to the outside. The drain device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve disposed on the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump disposed on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water from the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0073] The washing machine may include a control panel disposed on one side of the housing. The control panel may be provided with a user interface for a user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0074] The at least one input interface may convert sensory information received from the user into electrical signals.

[0075] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a process selection knob (or a process selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. At least one input interface may include a touch switch, a push button switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a rotary dial, and / or a microphone.

[0076] The at least one output interface may visually or audibly transmit information related to the operation of the washing machine to a user.

[0077] For example, at least one output interface can transmit information related to the washing process, the operation time of the washing machine, and the washing / rinsing / spinning settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine can be output through a screen, an indicator light, or voice. At least one output interface can include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, or a speaker.

[0078] The washing machine may include a communication module for wired and / or wireless communication with an external device.

[0079] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range wireless communication module and a long-range wireless communication module.

[0080] The communication module can send data to an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance) or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication module can establish communication with a server and / or a user device and / or a home appliance, and send and receive various types of data.

[0081] For communication, the communication module can establish a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and support communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication module). In these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network, such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct connection, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network, such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0082] 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 wireless local area network (Wi-Fi) communication module and 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 are not limited to these.

[0083] The long-distance wireless communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance wireless communications and may include a mobile communication circuit that transmits and receives radio signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices such as servers, user devices, and other household appliances through an access point (AP). The AP can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or the user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or the user device can be connected to the server through the WAN. The controller can control various components of the washing machine (e.g., a drive motor and a water supply valve). The controller can control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one operation, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, according to user input. For example, the controller can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the barrel.

[0085] The controller may include hardware, such as a CPU or memory, and software, such as a control program. For example, the controller may include at least one memory for storing algorithms and program-type data for controlling the operation of components in a washing machine and at least one processor configured to perform the above operations by using data stored in at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as a separate chip. The processor may include one or more processor chips or may include one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Alternatively, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0086] The embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0087] Figure 1 is a view showing an appearance of a washing machine according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a side sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0088] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a configuration of the washing machine 100 is described.

[0089] The washing machine 100 according to the embodiment may be a drum type washing machine which rotates the drum 130 and causes laundry to repeatedly rise and fall to wash the laundry, and an electric washing machine which washes the laundry using a water flow generated by a pulsator when the drum 130 rotates.

[0090] That is, the control method of the washing machine 100 according to the present disclosure is applicable to both a drum type washing machine and an electric washing machine. However, in the embodiment described below, a drum type washing machine is described as an example of the washing machine 100.

[0091] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2, the washing machine 100 may include a cabinet 101. The washing machine 100 may further include a door 102, a control panel 110, a tub 120, a drum 130, a driving device 140, a water supply part 150, a drainage part 160, and a detergent supply part 170, all of which are accommodated in the cabinet 101.

[0092] The cabinet 10 may be formed at the front thereof with an opening 101 a through which laundry may be put into or taken out of the drum 130 .

[0093] The opening 101a may be provided with a door 102. The door 102 may be rotatably installed at the front side of the cabinet 10 by a hinge.

[0094] The opening 101a may be opened or closed by the door 102, and the door switch 103 may detect whether the door 102 closes the opening 101a. In response to the opening 101a being closed to start operating the washing machine 100, the door lock 104 may lock the door 102.

[0095] On the upper front side of the cabinet 101 , a control panel 110 including an input portion for receiving a user input of the washing machine 100 from a user and a display for displaying operation information of the washing machine 100 is provided.

[0096] The tub 120 may be disposed inside the cabinet 101 and contain water for washing and / or rinsing.

[0097] The tub 120 may include a tub front 121 having an opening 121 a formed at a front side, and a tub rear 122 having a cylindrical shape and having a closed rear side.

[0098] An opening 121a configured to put laundry into or out of the drum 130 provided in the tub 120130 may be provided at the front side of the tub front 121. A bearing 122a configured to rotatably fix the motor 141 may be provided on the rear wall of the tub rear 122.

[0099] The drum 130 may be rotatably disposed inside the tub 120 and may accommodate laundry.

[0100] The drum 130 may include a drum body 131 having a cylindrical shape, a drum front 132 disposed in front of the drum body 131 , and a drum rear 133 disposed behind the drum body 131 .

[0101] The inner surface of the drum body 131 may be provided with a through hole 131a connecting the inside of the drum 130 and the inside of the tub 120, and a lifting device 131b configured to lift the laundry to the upper part of the drum 130 when the drum 130 rotates. The drum front portion 132 may be provided with an opening 132a configured to put the laundry into the drum 130 or take the laundry out of the drum 130. The drum rear portion 133 may be connected to the shaft of the motor 141, which rotates the drum 130.

[0102] The driving device 140 may include a motor 141 which rotates the drum 130 .

[0103] The details of the driving device will be described later.

[0104] The water supply part 150 may supply water to the tub 120 .

[0105] The water supply part 150 may include a water supply pipe 151 connected to an external water supply source to supply water to the tub 120 , and a water supply valve 152 provided on the water supply pipe 151 .

[0106] The water supply pipe 151 is disposed above the tub 120 and may extend from an external water supply source to the detergent box 171. Water may be guided to the tub 120 through the detergent box 171.

[0107] The water supply valve 152 may allow or prevent water from being supplied from an external water supply source to the tub 120 in response to an electrical signal. The water supply valve 152 may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0108] The drain member 160 may drain water contained in the tub 120 and / or the drum 130 to the outside.

[0109] The drain member 160 includes a drain pipe 161 disposed below the tub 120 and extending from the tub 120 to the outside of the cabinet 101, and a drain pump 162 disposed on the drain pipe 161. The drain pump 162 may pump water in the drain pipe 161 to the outside of the cabinet 101.

[0110] The detergent supply part 170 may supply detergent to the tub 120 and / or the drum 130 .

[0111] The detergent supply part 170 may include a detergent box 171 disposed above the tub 120 to store detergent, and a mixing pipe 172 connecting the detergent box 171 with the tub 120 .

[0112] The detergent box 171 may be connected to the water supply pipe 151, and water supplied through the water supply pipe 151 may be mixed with the detergent in the detergent box 171. The mixture of detergent and water may be provided to the tub 120 through the mixing pipe 172.

[0113] The drainage member 160 may further include a circulation pump 180 in addition to the drainage pump 162 .

[0114] The circulation pump 180 may circulate the wash water and / or the rinsing water stored in the tub by operating in the washing course and / or the rinsing course.

[0115] Hereinafter, a driving device for controlling the speed of the drum of the present disclosure will be described in detail.

[0116] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a driving device according to an embodiment. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the drive device shown in FIG. Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the drive device shown in FIG.

[0117] The driving device 140 according to the embodiment will refer to Figures 3 to 5 Give a description.

[0118] The washing machine 1 may include a driving device 140. The driving device 140 may be configured to generate power for rotating the drum 130.

[0119] The driving device 140 may include a rotor 200. The rotor 200 may rotate around a rotation axis.

[0120] The rotor 200 may be configured to have a space inside. A stator 205 described later may be positioned in the space provided inside the rotor 200 .

[0121] The rotor 200 may include a rotor case 210 . The rotor case 210 may define an appearance of the rotor 200 .

[0122] The rotor 200 may include a magnetic material. The magnetic material may respond to a magnetic field. The magnetic material may be attracted or repelled by the magnetic field.

[0123] The magnetic material may be coupled to the rotor housing 210 . The magnetic material may be positioned within the rotor housing 210 .

[0124] The magnetic material may be positioned corresponding to a coil of the stator 205 to be described later.

[0125] The driving device 140 may include a stator 205. The stator 205 may be configured to be stationary relative to the rotor 200.

[0126] Electrical connections may be made to the stator 205. As current flows through, the stator 205 may generate a magnetic field.

[0127] The stator 205 may include a coil (not shown). When current flows through the coil, the stator 205 may generate a magnetic field.

[0128] A plurality of coils may be provided. By energizing the plurality of coils sequentially, the coils may sequentially generate magnetic fields. The magnetic material may respond to the sequentially generated magnetic fields. Due to the reaction between the magnetic material and the coils, the rotor housing 210 may move together with the magnetic material. Therefore, the rotor 200 may rotate around the rotation axis.

[0129] The driving device 140 may include a power module 500. The power module 500 may be configured to provide power.

[0130] The power module 500 may be electrically connected to the stator 205 .

[0131] The power module 500 may also be electrically connected to the coupler lifting device 400 described later.

[0132] The driving device 140 may include a reduction gear module 300. The reduction gear module 300 may be configured to reduce the rotation speed of the rotor 200.

[0133] The reduction gear module 300 may be positioned inside the rotor 200 .

[0134] The rotation speed of the rotor 200 may be too fast to be applied to the drum 130 of the washing machine 1. Since the drum 130 of the washing machine 1 has an appropriate rotation speed for washing, the rotation speed of the rotor 200 needs to be reduced so that the drum 130 rotates at an appropriate rotation speed. For this purpose, a reduction gear module 300 may be provided.

[0135] The reduction gear module 300 may include a sun gear 310 .

[0136] The sun gear 310 may be coupled to the rotor 200 .

[0137] The sun gear 310 may rotate at the same rotation speed as the rotor 200 by being coupled to the rotor 200 .

[0138] The sun gear 310 may have a hole at a position corresponding to the rotation axis, and the shaft may pass through the hole of the sun gear 310 .

[0139] Teeth may be provided on the outer side of the sun gear 310 .

[0140] The reduction gear module 300 may include a pinion gear 330 .

[0141] The pinion gear 330 may mesh with the sun gear 310 from the outside of the sun gear 310. Therefore, according to the rotation of the sun gear 310, the pinion gear 330 may perform a rotational motion in the circumferential direction at the outside of the sun gear 310.

[0142] A plurality of pinion gears 330 may be provided. The plurality of pinion gears 330 may be positioned around the sun gear 310.

[0143] The reduction gear module 300 may include a ring gear 320 .

[0144] The ring gear 320 may be defined to have a space therein, and to have openings at both ends of the space.

[0145] The ring gear 320 may be positioned around the plurality of pinion gears 330. The ring gear 320 may be engaged with the pinion gears 330. The ring gear 320 may rotate while being engaged with the plurality of pinion gears 330.

[0146] The reduction gear module 300 may include a carrier 340 .

[0147] The planet carrier 340 may be rotatably coupled to the pinion gear 330 via a shaft.

[0148] The gear shaft 331 may be positioned to pass through the planet carrier 340 and the pinion gear 330 .

[0149] The planet carrier 340 may be engaged with the shaft. That is, the shaft rotates at the same speed as the planet carrier 340. Since the speed of the shaft is the same as the speed of the drum 130, the speed of the planet carrier 340 is the same as the speed of the drum 130. Therefore, in response to reducing the speed of the planet carrier 340, the speed of the drum 130 may be reduced.

[0150] The planet carrier 340 may be coupled with the pinion gear 330 through the gear shaft 331. The planet carrier 340 may rotate in response to a speed at which the pinion gear 330 rotates around the sun gear 310.

[0151] The planet carrier 340 may include a planet carrier tooth 341. The planet carrier tooth 341 may be engaged with a shaft connected to the drum 130. Therefore, the shaft connected to the drum 130 may be rotated according to the rotation of the planet carrier 340.

[0152] The speed reduction operation of the speed reduction gear module 300 is described.

[0153] When the rotor 200 rotates, the sun gear 310 may rotate together with the rotor 200 .

[0154] When the sun gear 310 rotates, the pinion gear 330 meshed with the sun gear may rotate. In this case, since the pinion gear 330 meshes with the ring gear 320, the rotation may be different depending on the state of the ring gear 320.

[0155] In response to ring gear 320 being stationary relative to pinion gear 330 , pinion gear 330 may have a first rotational speed.

[0156] In response to ring gear 320 moving relative to pinion gear 330 , pinion gear 330 may have a second rotational speed.

[0157] The first rotational speed may be lower than the second rotational speed.

[0158] In response to the pinion gear 330 performing a rotational motion around the rotation axis of the sun gear 310 at the first speed, the planet carrier 340 connected to the pinion gear 330 may rotate at a speed corresponding to the first speed.

[0159] In case of the first speed, the reduction gear module 300 may reduce the speed of the rotor 200 and transmit it to the shaft.

[0160] The driving device 140 may include a coupling 600. The coupling 600 may be configured to move the ring gear 320 relative to the pinion gear 330 or to stop the ring gear 320 relative to the pinion gear 330.

[0161] The coupling 600 may be positioned outside the ring gear 320. The coupling 600 may be engaged with the ring gear 320.

[0162] The coupler 600 may have one end thereof positioned toward the rotor 200 and the other end thereof positioned toward the stator 205 .

[0163] The coupling 600 is movable. When the coupling 600 moves, the coupling 600 can maintain engagement with the ring gear 320.

[0164] The coupling 600 may be moved to a first position. In the first position, the coupling 600 may be engaged with the rotor 200.

[0165] In response to the coupling 600 being in the first position, the rotation speed of the coupling 600 may be the same as the rotation speed of the rotor 200. Since the coupling 600 may be engaged with the ring gear 320, the rotation speed of the ring gear 320 may be the same as the rotation speed of the rotor 200. The ring gear 320 may be movable relative to the planet carrier 340. In this case, the reduction gear module 300 may not reduce the rotation speed of the rotor 200.

[0166] The coupling 600 can be moved to a second position. In the second position, the coupling 600 can engage with the stator 205.

[0167] Since the stator 205 is in a stationary state compared to the rotor 200, the rotation can be stopped when the coupling 600 is in the second position. Since the coupling 600 is engaged with the ring gear 320, the ring gear 320 can be stopped.

[0168] Since the rotation of the ring gear 320 may be stopped in response to the coupling 600 being in the second position, the reduction gear module 300 may reduce the rotation speed of the rotor 200 .

[0169] The coupler 600 may include a yoke 610 .

[0170] The yoke 610 may have a magnetic material that responds to magnetism. When the yoke 610 moves in response to the magnet, the coupling 600 may move.

[0171] The reduction gear module 300 may include a coupling lifting device 400 .

[0172] Coupler lift 400 may be coupled to stator 205 .

[0173] The coupler lifting device 400 may be positioned outside the radial direction of the coupler 600 .

[0174] Coupler lift 400 may be positioned around coupler 600 .

[0175] The coupler lifting device 400 may have a ring shape.

[0176] The coupler lifting device 400 may be electrically connected to the power module 500 .

[0177] The coupler lifting device 400 may include a solenoid 410. The solenoid 410 may generate a magnetic field in response to a current flowing through the solenoid 410.

[0178] In response to current flowing through the solenoid 410 in one direction, a first magnetic field may be generated.

[0179] The first magnetic field generated by the solenoid 410 may interact with the yoke 610 to move the coupling 600 to the first position.

[0180] In response to current flowing in another direction through the solenoid 410, a second magnetic field may be generated. The direction of the second magnetic field may be different from the direction of the first magnetic field.

[0181] The second magnetic field generated by the solenoid 410 may interact with the yoke 610 to move the coupling 600 to the second position.

[0182] The coupler lifting device 400 may include a permanent magnet 420 .

[0183] The permanent magnet 420 may be provided to fix the position of the coupling 600 by pulling the yoke 610 in response to the coupling 600 being in the first position or the second position.

[0184] The permanent magnet 420 may prevent the solenoid 410 from consuming power to fix the position of the coupling 600 .

[0185] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 An exploded view of the coupling 600, the stator 205 and the rotor 200 is shown in FIG. Figure 7 yes Figure 4 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the coupling 600 and the stator 205 coupled to each other. Figure 8 yes Figure 4 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view showing that the coupling 600 and the rotor 200 are coupled to each other.

[0186] refer to Figures 6 to 8 The configuration related to the movement of the connector 600 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0187] The coupling 600 may be positioned between the rotor 200 and the stator 205 .

[0188] The coupling 600 may engage with the rotor 200 in the first position and prevent engagement with the stator 205 .

[0189] The coupler 600 may engage the stator 205 and prevent engagement with the rotor 200 in the second position.

[0190] The coupler 600 may be coupled with the rotor 200 or the stator 205 through linear motion.

[0191] The coupler 600 may include coupler teeth.

[0192] The coupling teeth may be positioned on the outside of the coupling 600 .

[0193] The coupling teeth may include a first coupling tooth 601 .

[0194] The first coupling teeth 601 may be positioned toward the rotor 200. The first coupling teeth 601 may be positioned to face the rotor 200.

[0195] The rotor 200 may include rotor teeth 201 .

[0196] The rotor teeth 201 may mesh with the first coupling teeth 601 in response to the coupling 600 being in the first position.

[0197] The coupler teeth may include second coupler teeth 602 .

[0198] The second coupling tooth 602 may be positioned toward the stator 205. The second coupling tooth 602 may be positioned to face the stator 205.

[0199] The second coupling tooth 602 may be positioned closer to the stator 205 than the first coupling tooth 601 .

[0200] Stator 205 may include stator teeth 206 .

[0201] The stator teeth 206 may mesh with the second coupling teeth 602 in response to the coupling 600 being in the second position.

[0202] However, in response to switching the position of the coupling 600 , striking noise may occur between components.

[0203] Controlling the circulation pump together in response to the position of the switching coupling 600 to prevent the user from perceiving such noise is described below.

[0204] Fig. 9 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0205] As described above, the washing machine 100 may include a body, a tub 120 disposed inside the body to contain wash water, a drum 130 rotatably disposed inside the tub 120, a driving device 140 configured to provide power for rotating the drum 130, and a circulation pump 180 configured to circulate water in the tub 120 to supply water to the drum 130. The driving device 140 may include a coupler 600 configured to adjust the rotation speed of the drum 130 and a solenoid 410 configured to change the position of the coupler 600. The washing machine 100 may include a controller 190 configured to control operations of the driving device 140 and the circulation pump 180.

[0206] The controller 190 may include at least one processor and a memory.

[0207] The controller 190 may include a memory 192 and at least one processor 191, wherein the memory 192 is used to store a control program and control data for controlling the drive device 140 and the circulating pump 180, and the processor 191 is used to generate a control signal according to the control program and control data stored in the memory. The memory 192 and the processor 191 may be provided integrally or separately.

[0208] The memory 192 may store programs and data for controlling the driving device 140 and the circulation pump 180 .

[0209] Memory 192 may include volatile memory for temporary data storage, such as static random access memory (SRAM) or dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and non-volatile memory for long-term data storage, such as read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

[0210] The processor 191 may include various types of logic circuits and operation circuits, processes data according to a program provided from the memory 192 , and generates a control signal according to the processing result.

[0211] As described above, the controller 190 may adjust the rotation speed of the drum 130 by applying current to the solenoid 410 to change the position of the coupling 600 .

[0212] Specifically, the position of the coupling 600 may be changed by providing current in different directions to the solenoid 410 .

[0213] In response to the position change of the coupling 600 from the first position to the second position or from the second position to the first position, noise such as impact noise of components may occur. To mask the above noise, the controller 190 may control the position change of the coupling 600 to be performed during the operation of the circulation pump 180.

[0214] That is, while the circulation pump 180 is operating, the controller 190 may control the solenoid 410 to change the position of the coupling 600 .

[0215] Generally, the noise generated by the operation of the circulation pump 180 is greater than the noise generated by the position change of the coupler 600. Therefore, by changing the position of the coupler 600 when the circulation pump 180 is operating, the noise caused by the position change of the coupler 600 can be masked, so the user or the like may not perceive the noise generated by the position change of the coupler 600.

[0216] Hereinafter, various examples in which the position of the coupling 600 is changed during the operation of the circulation pump 180 are described in detail.

[0217] Fig.10 An example of an operation cycle of a washing machine according to an embodiment is shown.

[0218] refer to Fig.10 , the washing machine 100 can sequentially perform a washing process 1010, a rinsing process 1020 and a dehydration process 1030 according to a user input.

[0219] The laundry may be washed through the washing process 1010. Specifically, foreign matter attached to the laundry may be separated through the chemical action and / or mechanical action (eg, falling) of the detergent.

[0220] The washing process 1010 may include: laundry measurement 1011 for measuring the amount of laundry, water supply 1012 for providing water to the tub 120, washing 1013 for washing the laundry by rotating the drum 130 at a low speed, drainage 1014 for discharging the water contained in the tub 120, and intermediate dehydration 1015 for separating water and laundry by rotating the drum 130 at a high speed.

[0221] For washing 1013, the controller 190 can control the driving circuit 200 to rotate the motor 141 in a positive direction (e.g., clockwise) or in a reverse direction (e.g., counterclockwise). By the rotation of the drum 30, the laundry falls from the upper side of the drum 30 to the lower side, so the laundry can be washed by falling.

[0222] For the intermediate dehydration 1015, the controller 190 may control the driving circuit 200 to rotate the motor 141 at a high speed. By the high-speed rotation of the drum 130, water may be separated from the laundry contained in the drum 130 and discharged to the outside of the washing machine 1.

[0223] During the intermediate dehydration 1015 , the rotation speed of the drum 130 may be increased. The controller 190 may control the driving device 140 to increase the rotation speed of the drum 130 .

[0224] The laundry may be rinsed through the rinsing process 1020. Specifically, the detergent or foreign matter remaining on the laundry may be rinsed off with water.

[0225] The rinsing process 1020 may include water supply 1021 for providing water to the tub 120 , rinsing 1022 for rinsing laundry by driving the drum 130 , drainage 1023 for draining water contained in the tub 120 , and intermediate dehydration 1024 for separating water from the laundry by driving the drum 130 .

[0226] The water supply 1021, drainage 1023 and intermediate dehydration 1024 of the rinsing process 1020 may be respectively the same as the water supply 1012, drainage 1014 and intermediate dehydration 1015 of the washing process 1010. During the rinsing process 1020, the water supply 1021, rinsing 1022, drainage 1023 and intermediate dehydration 1024 may be performed once or several times.

[0227] The laundry may be dehydrated through the dehydration process 1030. Specifically, the water may be separated from the laundry by rotating the drum 130 at a high speed, and the separated water may be discharged to the outside of the washing machine 1.

[0228] The dehydration process 1030 may include a final dehydration 1031 in which the drum 130 is rotated at a high speed to separate water from the laundry. Due to the final dehydration 1031, the last intermediate dehydration 1024 in the rinsing process 1020 may be omitted.

[0229] For the final dehydration 1031 , the controller 190 may control the driving device 140 to increase the rotation speed of the drum 130 .

[0230] Since the operation of the washing machine 1 ends with the final spinning 1031 , the operation time of the final spinning 1031 may be longer than the operation time of the intermediate spinning 1015 or 1024 .

[0231] As described above, washing machine 100 can perform washing process 1010, rinsing process 1020 and dehydration process 1030 to clean laundry. In particular, during intermediate dehydration 1015 or 1024 and final dehydration 1031, washing machine 100 can increase the rotation speed of drum 130, and for this purpose, controller 190 can control driving device 140 to increase the rotation speed of drum 130.

[0232] The operation for controlling the rotation speed of the drum 130 has been described above with reference to Figures 3 to 8 Described in detail.

[0233] The rinsing process described throughout this specification may refer to all of the following: the intermediate dehydration 1015 performed in the washing process 1010, the intermediate dehydration 1024 performed in the rinsing process 1020, and the final dehydration 1031 performed in the dehydration process 1030. However, for the convenience of description, it is assumed that the dehydration process is the final dehydration 1031 of the dehydration process 1030 performed after the rinsing process 1020.

[0234] In the case where the washing process or the rinsing process is switched to the dehydration process, or in the case where the dehydration process is switched to the washing process or the rinsing process, the position of the coupler 600 in the driving device 140 is switched to adjust the rotation speed of the drum 130.

[0235] Here, the controller 190 can change the position of the coupler 600 from the second position to the first position in response to the washing process or the rinsing process switching to the dehydration process. In addition, in response to the dehydration process switching to the washing process or the rinsing process, the controller 190 can change the position of the coupler 600 from the first position to the second position.

[0236] As described above, the coupling 600 may be engaged with the rotor 200 at the first position. Since a relatively fast rotation speed of the drum 130 is required during the dehydration process, the drum may rotate at a first speed in response to the coupling 600 being located at the first position.

[0237] In addition, the coupler 600 may be engaged with the stator 205 at the second position. Since a relatively slow rotation speed of the drum 130 is required during a washing process or a rinsing process, the drum may rotate at a second speed in response to the coupler 600 being positioned at the second position.

[0238] Here, the first speed may be higher than the second speed.

[0239] In order to prevent the user from perceiving the noise generated by the position switching of the coupler 600, the noise may be masked by the noise generated when the circulation pump 180 operates, which will be described in detail below.

[0240] Figures 11 to 14 is a diagram illustrating position switching of a clutch during operation of a circulation pump according to an embodiment. Fig.15 is a graph showing the noise level generated during cycle operation and clutch position switching.

[0241] In the washing process or the rinsing process, the drum 130 may have a plurality of rotation cycles. That is, the drum 130 may form a plurality of rotation cycles during the washing process or the rinsing process, and the rotation cycles rotate clockwise CW and counterclockwise CCW alternately.

[0242] Here, the circulation pump 180 may be controlled to operate in each rotation cycle, or may be controlled to operate continuously in a washing process or a rinsing process.

[0243] First, a case where a washing process or a rinsing process is switched to a dehydration process is described.

[0244] The controller 190 may change the position of the coupler 600 before the last rotation cycle among the plurality of rotation cycles of the drum 130 starts when the circulation pump 180 operates in the washing process or the rinsing process.

[0245] Usually, after the washing process or the rinsing process is completed, the position of the coupling 600 is changed, and then the dehydration process is performed. However, since the circulation pump 180 does not operate after the washing process or the rinsing process is completed, the position of the coupling 600 can be changed during the operation of the circulation pump 180 before the washing process or the rinsing process ends.

[0246] refer to Fig.11, the circulation pump 180 can be controlled to operate in each rotation cycle. That is, as the drum 130 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise alternately, the circulation pump 180 can also be operated in each rotation cycle while repeatedly turning on and off.

[0247] In this case, since the position of the coupling 600 may be changed before the last rotation cycle among the plurality of rotation cycles of the drum 130 starts, the circulation pump 180 may be controlled to operate before the position of the coupling 600 is changed.

[0248] That is to say, in Fig.11 After the circulation pump 180 is operated as shown, the position of the coupler 600 may be changed so as to mask the noise from the coupler 600 with the noise from the circulation pump 180 .

[0249] refer to Fig.13 , the circulation pump 180 can be controlled to operate continuously during the washing process or the rinsing process.

[0250] In this case, since the position of the coupling 600 may be changed before the last of the plurality of rotation cycles of the drum 130 starts and the circulation pump 180 is still operating, the noise generated by the coupling 600 may be masked by the noise generated by the circulation pump 180 .

[0251] Next, a case of switching from the dehydration course to the washing course or the rinsing course will be described.

[0252] The controller 190 may change the position of the coupler 600 after the first rotation cycle among the plurality of rotation cycles of the drum 130 is completed when the circulation pump 180 is operated during the washing process or the rinsing process.

[0253] Usually, after the dehydration process is completed, the position of the coupling 600 is changed, and then the washing process or the rinsing process is continued. However, since the circulation pump 180 does not operate before the washing process or the rinsing process begins, the position of the coupling 600 can be changed when the circulation pump 180 operates after the washing process or the rinsing process begins.

[0254] refer to Fig.12 , the circulation pump 180 can be controlled to operate in each rotation cycle. That is, as the drum 130 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise alternately, the circulation pump 180 can also operate in each rotation cycle while repeatedly turning on and off.

[0255] In this case, since the position of the coupling 600 may be changed after the first rotation cycle among the plurality of rotation cycles of the drum 130 is completed, the circulation pump 180 may be controlled to operate before the position of the coupling 600 is changed.

[0256] That is, you can Fig.12 It is shown that the position of the coupling 600 is changed after the circulation pump 180 is operated, thereby masking the noise from the coupling 600 with the noise from the circulation pump 180 .

[0257] refer to Fig.14 , the circulation pump 180 can be controlled to operate continuously during the washing process or the rinsing process.

[0258] In this case, since the position of the coupling 600 may be changed after the first rotation cycle among the plurality of rotation cycles of the drum 130 is completed and the circulation pump 180 is still operating, the noise generated by the coupling 600 may be masked by the noise generated by the circulation pump 180 .

[0259] refer to Fig.15 , it can be seen that the noise generated during the operation of the circulation pump 180 is 51 [dBA], and the noise generated by the position switching of the connector 600 is 48 [dBA].

[0260] Since the noise generated during the operation of the circulation pump 180 is greater than the noise generated by the position switching of the coupler 600 , the noise generated by the position switching of the coupler 600 can be effectively masked by changing the position of the coupler 600 during the operation of the circulation pump 180 .

[0261] Fig.16 is a flowchart of a control method of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0262] Once the operation of the washing machine is started 1701 , the circulation pump 180 may be controlled to operate 1703 in a washing process or a rinsing process.

[0263] In this case, by changing 1705 the position of the coupler 600 during the operation of the circulation pump 180 , noise generated by the position switching of the coupler 600 may be masked by noise generated during the operation of the circulation pump 180 .

[0264] Specifically, in response to the rinsing process or the washing process switching to the dehydration process, the position of the coupling 600 can be changed before the last rotation cycle of the plurality of rotation cycles of the drum 130 starts while the circulation pump 180 is operating. Therefore, the position switching noise of the coupling 600 can be masked.

[0265] In addition, in response to switching from the dehydration process to the washing process or the rinsing process, the position of the coupling 600 can be changed after the first rotation cycle of the plurality of rotation cycles of the drum 130 is completed while the circulation pump is operating. Therefore, the position switching noise of the coupling 600 can be masked.

[0266] According to the present disclosure, by performing clutch position switching to adjust the rotation speed of the drum while the circulating pump is operating, the noise from the clutch position switching can be masked by the noise from the circulating operation to prevent the user from perceiving the clutch position switching noise.

[0267] At the same time, the disclosed embodiments can be implemented 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, these instructions can create a program module to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium can be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0268] The computer-readable recording medium may include various recording media storing instructions that can be interpreted by a computer. For example, the computer-readable recording medium may be a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, a flash memory, an optical data storage device, etc.

[0269] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that other specific modifications can be easily made without departing from the technical spirit or basic features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the above embodiments should be considered illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising: a bucket to hold the wash water; a drum, within said barrel; A driving device, configured to rotate the drum, the driving device comprising: a coupling configured to move between a first position and a second position to adjust the rotational speed of the drum, and a solenoid configured to move the coupler between the first position and the second position in response to a current flowing through the solenoid; a circulation pump configured to operate to circulate the wash water in the tub; and A controller is configured to determine when the circulation pump is operating and, when it is determined that the circulation pump is operating, control current flowing through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is configured to control current flowing through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position by changing a direction in which current is supplied to the solenoid between a first direction and a second direction.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is configured to control the drive device to rotate the drum for multiple rotation cycles, and when the circulation pump is operating in a washing process or a rinsing process, before the last rotation cycle of the multiple rotation cycles of the drum starts, control the current flowing through the solenoid to move the connector between the first position and the second position.

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein: The controller is configured to start operating the circulation pump before controlling the current flowing through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position, and to stop operating the circulation pump after controlling the current flowing through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position.

5. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein: The controller is configured to operate the circulation pump during the washing process or the rinsing process.

6. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein: The plurality of rotation cycles of the drum include cycles in which the drum rotates alternately clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW).

7. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is configured to control the driving device to rotate the drum for multiple rotation cycles, and is configured to control the current flowing through the solenoid to move the connector between the first position and the second position after the first rotation cycle of the multiple rotation cycles of the drum is completed when it is determined that the circulation pump is operating in a washing process or a rinsing process.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein: The controller is configured to start operating the circulation pump before controlling the current flowing through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position, and stop operating the circulation pump after controlling the current flowing through the solenoid to move the coupler between the first position and the second position.

9. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein: The controller is configured to operate the circulation pump during the washing process or the rinsing process.

10. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein: The plurality of rotation cycles of the drum include cycles in which the drum rotates alternately clockwise (CW) and counterclockwise (CCW).

11. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein: The controller is configured to: In response to switching the washing process or the rinsing process to the dehydration process, changing the direction of the current supplied to the solenoid to move the coupler from the second position to the first position, and In response to switching the dehydration course to the washing course or the rinsing course, a direction of current supplied to the solenoid is changed to move the coupler from the first position to the second position.

12. The washing machine according to claim 11, wherein: When the driving device rotates the drum, the drum is configured to: When the coupling is in the first position, it rotates at a first speed, and When the coupling is in the second position, the coupling rotates at a second speed, and Wherein, the first speed is higher than the second speed.

13. A control method for a washing machine, the washing machine comprising a tub containing washing water, a drum in the tub, a circulation pump configured to operate to circulate the washing water in the tub, and a driving device configured to rotate the drum, the driving device comprising a coupling and a solenoid, the coupling being configured to move between a first position and a second position to adjust a rotation speed of the drum, the solenoid being configured to move the coupling between the first position and the second position in response to a current flowing through the solenoid, the control method comprising: determining when the circulation pump is operating; as well as When it is determined that the circulation pump is operating, the coupling is moved between the first position and the second position by controlling a current flowing through the solenoid.

14. The control method according to claim 13, wherein: The controlling includes changing a direction in which the current is supplied to the solenoid.

15. The control method according to claim 13, further comprising: rotating the drum using the drive device for a plurality of rotation cycles; as well as Wherein, the control includes: when it is determined that the circulation pump is operating in a washing process or a rinsing process, before the last rotation cycle of multiple rotation cycles of the drum starts, controlling the current flowing through the solenoid to move the connector between the first position and the second position.

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