Washing machine accessory and washing machine

Abstract

A washing machine accessory includes: a housing including a flow path open at both ends; a filter covering an inlet and an outlet of the flow path and removing foam; a turbidity sensor formed in the flow path; and a wireless communication module transmitting information received from the turbidity sensor to an external device. The washing machine accessory can realize accurate turbidity measurement so as to accurately calculate rinsing operation time.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a washing machine accessory and a washing machine. Background Art

[0002] Generally, clothes treating apparatuses include washing machines, drying machines, care machines, etc., and the washing machine may include a drying function.

[0003] The washing machine includes washing, rinsing and dehydrating operations. The washing time is initially determined by the washing program and the weight of the laundry put into the drum. If the load is too much or too little compared to the reference load, the operation time may be affected. In addition, when the laundry is wet, it will be judged to be heavier than the actual load, resulting in the problem of setting an unnecessary long time.

[0004] The rinse time can be determined based on the initial load measurement, but can also be increased or decreased by measuring the turbidity of the wash water. At this time, it is difficult to accurately measure the turbidity of ordinary washing machine detergents that produce too much foam, resulting in a problem of prolonged washing time.

[0005] In the dehydration operation, the load is evenly distributed inside the drum and then the drum is rotated at high speed. At this time, if the load is too light, the load cannot be evenly distributed and additional time may be required to evenly distribute the load inside the drum so that the drum is balanced.

[0006] As mentioned above, the washing time can be determined by a variety of factors and can be changed within the initially estimated washing time. However, from the user's perspective, when the washing time changes, there may be problems such as washing for longer than expected or washing being left unused due to premature washing. Therefore, it is necessary to measure the accurate time initially and prevent unnecessary washing time changes due to other factors during subsequent adjustments. Summary of the invention

[0007] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a washing machine accessory which can accurately predict washing time.

[0009] Technical solutions to the problem

[0010] A washing machine accessory is provided, comprising: a housing including a flow path with both ends open; a filter covering an inlet and an outlet of the flow path and removing foam; a turbidity sensor formed in the flow path; and a wireless communication module transmitting information received from the turbidity sensor to an external device.

[0011] The washing machine accessory may further include an elastic tube coupled to an inner side of the filter and having an outer diameter corresponding to a size of the flow path; the elastic tube is inserted into an inlet and an outlet of the flow path to fix the filter.

[0012] The turbidity sensor may include a light emitting unit and a light receiving unit disposed opposite to each other on both sides of a position of the flow path.

[0013] The flow path may include: a first flow path extending from an inlet; a second flow path bent from the first flow path; and a third flow path bent from the second flow path and connected to the outlet; and the turbidity sensor is located in the second flow path.

[0014] The first flow path and the third flow path may be parallel.

[0015] The washing machine accessory may further include a piezoelectric element that applies vibration to the flow path.

[0016] The washing machine accessory may further include a contact humidity sensor exposed on an outer side of the housing; when the humidity sensor detects moisture, the wireless communication module transmits the detected humidity to an external device.

[0017] The washing machine accessory may further include a plurality of force sensors disposed on the housing; and the wireless communication module transmits the impact amount detected by the force sensors to the external device.

[0018] The housing may be in the shape of a cube with six faces; the force sensors are located on at least three faces.

[0019] The washing machine accessory may further include a position information sensor disposed on the housing, the position information sensor including at least one of a gyroscope sensor and an acceleration sensor; the wireless communication module transmits movement information of the housing obtained from the position information sensor to the external device.

[0020] The shell may be in the shape of a cube with six faces; the washing machine accessory further includes a wireless charging coil disposed on one side of the shell.

[0021] A washing machine is provided, comprising: a housing forming an appearance; a drum rotatably disposed in the housing and accommodating laundry; a driving unit rotating the drum; a water supply unit supplying water into the drum; a wireless communication module sending and receiving wireless signals; and a control unit controlling the driving unit, the water supply unit and the wireless communication module to perform a washing operation, a rinsing operation and a dehydration operation; the wireless communication module receiving first turbidity information provided by a washing machine accessory put into the drum; and resetting the time of the rinsing operation based on the first turbidity information.

[0022] The washing machine may further include a turbidity sensor located at the lower portion of the housing; if the first turbidity information received from the washing machine accessory and the second turbidity information measured by the turbidity sensor produce a difference greater than a baseline value, the control unit performs at least one of cleaning the turbidity sensor and recommending replacement of the detergent.

[0023] The wireless communication module can receive the humidity of the laundry provided by the washing machine accessories put into the drum; if the humidity is above the reference humidity, the control unit will measure the weight of the laundry in the drum and the rotational inertia of the drum after performing the pre-spinning operation to calculate the washing time.

[0024] The wireless communication module can receive the impact amount provided by the washing machine accessories put into the drum; if the impact amount is above a first reference value, the control unit judges that the load is small, and if the impact amount is below a second reference value, the control unit judges that the load is large to calculate the washing time.

[0025] The wireless communication module may receive motion information provided from washing machine accessories inserted into the drum; and provide a level correction alarm for the washing machine if the motion information exhibits an irregular pattern.

[0026] Effects of the Invention

[0027] According to the present invention, by using the washing machine accessories, accurate turbidity measurement can be achieved, thereby accurately calculating the rinsing operation time.

[0028] In addition, washing machine accessories detect humidity and can calculate the exact load size so that the optimal wash time can be set.

[0029] In addition, the type of laundry can be detected by the amount of impact detected by the washing machine accessories, so that the washing operation can be selected according to the laundry.

[0030] In addition, through the movement of washing machine accessories, the tilt of the washing machine can be detected and the adjustment level can be guided, thereby improving washing efficiency and reducing noise.

[0031] According to the following detailed description, the applicable additional scope of the present invention will become clear. However, since those skilled in the art will clearly understand various changes and modifications within the concept and scope of the present invention, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific embodiments are given by way of example only. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Figure 1 A system equipped with the laundry treating apparatus of the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 2 The structure of a washing machine and a mini washing machine in the laundry processing device of the present invention is shown.

[0034] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram showing a method of inserting the washing machine accessory of the present invention into the interior of the washing machine.

[0035] Figure 4 It is a cross-sectional perspective view showing the washing machine accessory of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the force sensor and the operation of the washing machine components according to the volume of the laundry.

[0037] Figure 6 This is a graph showing the values ​​detected by the force sensor of the washing machine accessory.

[0038] Figure 7 is a visualization of the movement of washing machine components as measured by position detection sensors.

[0039] Figure 8 This is a graph showing the results of measurement using a turbidity sensor provided in a washing machine.

[0040] Fig. 9 It is a cross-sectional view showing the flow path of the housing of the present invention.

[0041] Fig.10 It is a schematic diagram showing the process of washing using the washing machine accessories of the present invention.

[0042] Figures 11 to 13 It is a schematic diagram showing a terminal screen that provides a user with a status of the washing machine and controls the washing machine through an external terminal when washing is performed using the washing machine accessory of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in this specification are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification, even in different embodiments, the same or similar components are given the same or similar figure marks, and their descriptions are replaced by the first descriptions. Unless the context clearly stipulates otherwise, the singular expressions used in this specification include plural expressions. In addition, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, when it is determined that the specific description of the relevant known technology may confuse the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, its detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the drawings are only used to help understand the embodiments disclosed in this specification and should not be interpreted as limiting the technical ideas disclosed in this specification by the drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 A household appliance system and an online system equipped with the laundry treating apparatus of the present invention are shown.

[0045] The laundry processing device of the present invention includes: a washing machine 10, which executes any washing program or washing option to perform a washing operation of removing foreign matter from the laundry using water and detergent; and a mini washing machine 60, which is arranged near or below the washing machine, and executes any washing program or washing option to perform a washing operation of removing foreign matter from the laundry using water and detergent.

[0046] The washing machine 10 may be configured as a front load type in which laundry is loaded from the front, and the mini washing machine 60 may be configured as a top load type in which laundry is loaded from the top.

[0047] As shown in the figure, the mini washing machine 60 is arranged at the lower part of the washing machine 10, and can raise the height of the input port of the washing machine 10. In this case, the mini washing machine 60 can be set as a drawer type that can be pulled forward to expose the input port for inputting clothes.

[0048] In addition, the mini washing machine 60 may be disposed on the upper portion of the washing machine 10. In this way, a user can easily approach the mini washing machine 60.

[0049] In addition, the laundry treating apparatus of the present invention may include a drying device 20 that performs any drying program or drying option to dry the laundry containing moisture washed in the washing machine 10 or the mini washing machine 60 .

[0050] In the clothes processing apparatus of the present invention, the user can place the washing machine 10 and the drying device 20 together in the room, and can also install the mini washing machine 60 additionally.

[0051] In this way, clothes that are relatively small in volume and need to be washed frequently, such as underwear and baby clothes, can be washed by the mini washing machine 60. In addition, clothes that are relatively large in volume and are not washed frequently, such as jeans and quilts, can be washed by the washing machine 10.

[0052] In addition, at least one of the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 can be connected to the Internet network through the router 30 (AP). At least one of the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 can be configured with a communication module to connect to the router, and the server 50 provided by the manufacturer of the clothing processing device can identify, register and control the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 through the port information of the router 30.

[0053] When a user holds an external terminal 40 equipped with a communication module such as a smart phone, the external terminal 40 can be used to connect to the server 10 through the Internet network to control one or more of the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60.

[0054] In addition, the user registers at least one of the washing machine 10 , the drying device 20 , and the mini washing machine 60 in the server 50 through the external terminal 40 .

[0055] In addition, when the server 50 has reminder information, program or option updates that need to be sent to users of one or more of the washing machine 10 , the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 , the server 50 may notify the external terminal 40 .

[0056] In addition, the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 may be configured to communicate with each other.

[0057] Any one of the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 may be configured to communicate with the other two of the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 through the router 30 and the server 50. To this end, the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 may be equipped with a communication module such as Wi-Fi.

[0058] In addition, the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 may be configured to communicate with each other without going through the server 50. For example, the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 may be configured to communicate with each other through a Bluetooth communication module.

[0059] The washing machine 10 , the drying device 20 , and the mini washing machine 60 are configured to be communicable with each other, so as to be able to share each other's status and to display each other's status.

[0060] For example, it is configured that the user can grasp the status of the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 through the washing machine 10. Therefore, even if the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 are configured separately from the washing machine 10, or even if the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 are not in the field of vision when the user looks at the washing machine 10, the user can still display the status of the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 through the washing machine 10.

[0061] The washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 can share or display the names of their respective programs or options, the selection status of their respective programs or options, the execution status of their respective programs or options, the completion status of their respective programs or options, and their respective error or notification status.

[0062] In addition, any one of the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 may be configured to operate the other two of the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 through respective operating parts receiving instructions.

[0063] The washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 can send control instructions to each other through their respective communication modules or the server 10, and can also be configured to receive control instructions.

[0064] In this way, even if the washing machine 10, the drying device 20 and the mini washing machine 60 are separated from each other, the user can control another device through one device, thereby improving convenience.

[0065] Figure 2 An embodiment of the internal structure of the washing machine 10 and the mini washing machine 20 is shown.

[0066] Unlike what is shown in the drawings, the washing machine 10 and the mini washing machine 20 may be detachably and independently provided.

[0067] The washing machine 10 may include: a housing 1 forming an exterior; an outer tub 2 accommodated in the housing 1 for storing water; a drum 3 rotatably disposed on the outer tub 2 for storing water; a driving portion 32 coupled to the outer tub 2 and causing the drum 3 to rotate; a water supply portion 23 for supplying water to the outer tub 2; and a drainage portion 25 for draining water from the outer tub 2.

[0068] The outer tub 2 and the drum 3 may be provided with an inlet for putting clothes in the front, and the housing 1 may further include a door 132 for opening and closing the inlet.

[0069] The driving unit 32 may include a stator 321 coupled to the rear of the tub 2 , a rotor 322 rotated by the stator 321 , and a rotating shaft 323 coupled to the rotor 322 to rotate the drum 3 .

[0070] The water supply unit 23 may include: a water supply pipe 231 connecting an external water supply source and the outer tub 2 ; and a water supply valve 232 for opening and closing the water supply pipe 231 .

[0071] Of course, the water supply part 23 may also include a detergent box, which is configured to be pulled out from the front of the box body 1 so as to inject detergent into the outer barrel 2, and the water supply pipe 231 may be connected to the detergent box.

[0072] The drainage part 25 may include: a drainage pipe 251 provided at the lower part of the outer tub 2; and a drainage pump 252 combined with the drainage pipe 252 and providing power to drain water.

[0073] The washing machine 10 may further include: a support portion 22 for supporting the outer tub 2 on the housing 1 ; and a heater H1 for heating water in the outer tub 2 .

[0074] In addition, the washing machine 10 may further include a hot air supplying portion Ha provided for supplying hot air to the outer tub 2 .

[0075] In addition, the washing machine 10 may further include a control panel P or a washing control unit for displaying the state of the washing machine 10 or receiving control instructions. The control panel P may be provided in combination with the housing 1 .

[0076] In addition, the control panel P may be configured to execute any washing program and washing option for removing foreign matter from clothes by operating at least any one of the driving unit 32, the water supply valve 232, the drainage pump 252, the heater H1, and the hot air supply unit Ha. The washing program and washing option may constitute a series of control methods that can execute all of the washing operation, the rinsing operation, and the dehydration operation.

[0077] The mini washing machine 60 may include: a mini box 1C forming an appearance; a mini outer barrel 2C housed in the mini box 1C for storing water; a mini drum 3C rotatably disposed in the mini outer barrel 2C and for storing water; a mini driving unit 32C coupled to the mini outer barrel 2C and causing the mini drum 3C to rotate; a mini water supply unit 23C for supplying water to the mini outer barrel 2C; and a mini drain unit 25C for draining water from the mini outer barrel 2C.

[0078] The mini box 1C is disposed at the lower part of the box 1 to support the box 1. Of course, it is not excluded that the mini box is disposed at the upper part of the box 1.

[0079] The mini box and the box 1 can be integrally arranged.

[0080] The mini outer tub 2C and the mini drum 3C may be provided with an inlet for putting clothes in at the upper part, and the mini housing 1C may further include a mini door 132C for opening and closing the inlet.

[0081] The mini driving part 32C may include: a mini stator 321C coupled to the lower portion of the mini outer barrel 2C; a mini rotor 322C rotated by the mini stator 321C; and a mini rotating shaft 323C coupled to the mini rotor 322C and rotating the mini drum 3C.

[0082] The mini water supply unit 23C may include: a mini water supply pipe 231C connecting an external water supply source and the mini outer tub 2C; and a mini water supply valve 232C for opening and closing the mini water supply pipe 231C.

[0083] Of course, the mini water supply unit 23C may also include a mini detergent box, which is configured to be pulled out from the front of the housing 1 so as to inject detergent into the mini outer barrel 2C, and the mini water supply pipe 231C may be connected to the detergent box.

[0084] The mini drain unit 25C may include: a mini drain pipe 251C provided at the lower portion of the mini outer tub 2C; and a mini drain pump 252C coupled to the mini drain pipe 252C and providing power for draining water.

[0085] The mini washing machine 60C may further include: a mini supporting portion 22C for supporting the mini outer tub 2C on the mini housing 1C; and a mini heater H2 for heating water inside the mini outer tub 2C.

[0086] In addition, the mini washing machine 60 may also include a hot air supply unit HaC for supplying hot air to the mini outer tub 2C.

[0087] In addition, the mini washing machine 60 may further include a mini control panel PC or a mini control unit for displaying the status of the mini washing machine 60 or receiving control instructions. The mini control panel PC may be provided in combination with the mini cabinet 1C.

[0088] In addition, the mini control panel PC can be configured to execute any washing program and washing option for removing foreign matter from clothes by operating at least any one of the mini driving unit 32C, the mini water supply valve 232C, the mini drainage pump 252C, the mini heater H2, and the mini hot air supply unit HaC. The washing program and washing option can be configured as a series of control methods that can execute all washing operations, rinsing operations, and dehydration operations.

[0089] The mini washing machine 60 may further include a drawer D that can be pulled out from the mini box 1C to accommodate the mini outer tub 2C. The front of the drawer D includes a front cover DC that can open and close the entrance of the drawer D pulled out from the mini box 1C.

[0090] The front cover DC may be configured with the mini control panel PC.

[0091] The operation of the washing machine 10 can be divided into: a washing operation in which water mixed with detergent is used to remove contamination from the laundry; a rinsing operation in which clean water is injected into the drum 3 to remove dirt and detergent separated from the laundry; and a dehydration operation in which water is removed from the laundry using physical force.

[0092] The operation of the washing machine 10 may further include a drying operation by applying hot air. If the washing machine 10 is not equipped with a heater, the drying operation cannot be performed. Alternatively, the drying operation may be performed by an additional dryer.

[0093] After the laundry is put into the drum 3 inside the housing, the drum 3 washing machine 10 detects the weight and moment of inertia of the laundry before starting the washing operation. The weight of the laundry can be measured using a scale provided in the drum 3.

[0094] However, depending on the type of laundry, some laundry may have a larger moment of inertia even if they have the same weight, while laundry such as quilts may have a larger volume and fill the drum 3 without leaning to one side, and the moment of inertia may be smaller.

[0095] The moment of inertia plays an important role in determining the washing strength, and therefore, by detecting the weight and the moment of inertia of the laundry, the optimal rotation speed (RPM) of the drum 3 and the washing time can be derived.

[0096] However, if an appropriate amount of laundry is not put in or an appropriate amount of detergent is not used, there is a problem that it is difficult to accurately set the washing time.

[0097] For example, when the amount of laundry is too small to generate centrifugal force in drum 3, there is a problem that the time for drum 3 to rotate is prolonged before the washing operation or the dehydration operation starts in order to balance the laundry.

[0098] In addition, if the laundry is wet, the weight will be recognized as being larger than the actual amount of laundry, causing the initial wash time to be set too long. If the wash time is subsequently shortened or not shortened, the laundry material may be damaged due to the unnecessarily long wash time.

[0099] In addition, if a detergent that generates too much foam is used, the turbidity detected by the turbidity sensor 611 in the washing machine 10 cannot be accurately measured due to the foam, resulting in a longer rinsing time. In order to remove the foam, the washing time will also be extended, so it is necessary to use detergent appropriately, but it is difficult for users to grasp this point.

[0100] The sensor equipped in the washing machine 10 itself is located outside the drum 3, and it is difficult to accurately detect the condition inside the drum 3. Therefore, the present invention provides a washing machine accessory 600 that is inserted into the drum 3, which detects the condition inside the drum 3 and performs the best washing operation based on it.

[0101] Figure 3 1 is a schematic diagram showing a method of inserting the washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention into the washing machine 10. The washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention is inserted into the drum 3 interior 135 by opening the door 132 of the washing machine 10, and is located inside the drum 3 together with the laundry. Since the washing machine accessory 600 is located inside the drum 3 and is in direct contact with the laundry, it can measure values ​​more accurately than other sensors located inside the housing 2 of the washing machine 10.

[0102] The ball-shaped washing machine accessory inserted into the drum 3 of the washing machine 10 rotates with the rotation of the drum 3, and in order to minimize the friction with the clothes, it can be spherical. Alternatively, considering the convenience of charging and the configuration of the force sensor 623, it can also be as follows Figure 3 As shown, the housing 610 is formed in a cubic shape. However, in order to minimize the friction with the laundry, the edge may have a curved surface.

[0103] The washing machine accessory 600 can prevent the laundry from being entangled with each other when rotating in the drum 3, and improve the washing effect by beating the clothes and creating spaces between the laundry.

[0104] In particular, the washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention collects humidity, impact amount, and motion information inside the drum 3 and provides it to the washing machine 10, which can solve the problem of inaccurate operation time of the washing machine 10. The washing machine 10 can use the information collected from the washing machine accessory 600 to understand the status of the laundry, provide accurate time information to the user, and set the operation time suitable for the laundry and select a washing method suitable for the laundry.

[0105] Figure 4 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention. The washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention includes a housing 610 with a plurality of sensors installed thereon, and the installed sensors may include a humidity sensor 622, a turbidity sensor 611, a force sensor 623, and a position information sensor 624 such as a gyroscope sensor.

[0106] In order to supply power to the sensor, a battery (not shown) may be included. The charging terminal for charging the battery has a waterproof problem, so the charging terminal may be omitted and wireless charging may be performed via the wireless charging coil 631 .

[0107] In addition, in order to transmit information collected from the sensor to the washing machine 10 , a wireless communication module (not shown) for wirelessly communicating with the washing machine 10 may be included.

[0108] like Figure 3 As shown, the housing 610 may be in a cubic shape. Although it may also be in a circular shape, the cubic shape is easier to install components inside, and the wireless charging coil 631 for wireless charging needs to have a flat surface in order to contact with the wireless charging device.

[0109] In order to accurately grasp the impact direction of the force sensor 623, the housing 610 is configured in a hexahedral shape, and the force sensor 623 can be arranged on three surfaces. Even if the housing 610 has a cubic shape, the edge can be configured as a curved surface in order not to damage the laundry.

[0110] The housing 610 may collide with the drum 3 to generate noise, and therefore, may include elastic materials such as rubber or silicone.

[0111] like Figure 3 As shown, when washing machine accessory 600 is put into drum 3 together with laundry, washing machine 10 measures the weight of the laundry before washing and rotates drum 3 to measure the rotational inertia.

[0112] In this case, when wet laundry is put in, a heavier weight than the actual load will be measured, making it impossible to accurately grasp the load and increasing the washing time. To detect whether the laundry is wet, the washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention may include a humidity sensor 622 exposed to the outer side of the housing 610.

[0113] The humidity sensor 622 includes two electrodes 6221. When the electrodes are in contact with moisture, current flows between the pair of electrodes 6221. The washing machine accessory 600 is put into the drum 3 and directly contacts the laundry. Therefore, when the laundry is wet, current flows between the pair of electrodes 6221, and the humidity sensor 622 can detect this phenomenon.

[0114] That is, since wet laundry is heavier than the actual load, in order to measure the accurate weight, the dehydration operation may be performed for about 1 minute. Then the weight may be measured again to measure the accurate load. Alternatively, the washing time may be set based on a load less than the measured weight in consideration of the wet condition.

[0115] In addition to measuring the load only by weight, a force sensor 623 may be provided to measure the volume. The force sensor 623 generates an electrical signal when subjected to pressure. When the force sensor 623 collides with the drum 3, the force sensor 623 is pressed to generate a signal.

[0116] Figure 5 FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the force sensor 623 and the operation of the washing machine accessory 600 according to the volume of the laundry. Figure 5 As shown in (a), the force sensor 623 can be arranged on three faces of the cubic force sensor. Although not limited to this, only one force sensor 623 can be provided, but in order to measure the accurate impact amount, a plurality of force sensors 623 arranged in different directions can be included.

[0117] Figure 6 : is a graph showing the values ​​detected by the force sensor 623 of the washing machine accessory 600.

[0118] like Figure 5 As shown in (a), when the load is small, the number of collisions between the force sensor 623 of the washing machine accessory 600 and the drum 3 increases, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown in (a), a large impact can be detected. In this case, the washing machine 10 can determine that the amount of laundry inside the drum 3 is small or the volume is small.

[0119] At this time, you can guide the user to load less and recommend more, or consider that more time is needed to maintain balance during dehydration, so as to set the dehydration operation time. However, due to the small load, the washing operation time can be set shorter.

[0120] In addition, if Figure 5 As shown in (c), in the case of bulky laundry such as quilts, Figure 6 As shown in (b), the impact detected by the force sensor 623 is small. Considering that large-volume laundry absorbs more water, the rinsing operation time can be extended and the dehydration intensity can be increased. The washing mode can be changed to a quilt washing mode.

[0121] The washing machine accessory 600 may further include a position detection sensor 624 such as a gyro sensor or an acceleration sensor for detecting a position change of the washing machine accessory 600. The position detection sensor 624 may detect movement of the washing machine accessory 600 in the drum 3.

[0122] Figure 7 is a visualization diagram showing the movement of washing machine component 600 as measured by position detection sensor 624. Figure 7 As shown in (a), when the washing machine 10 moves in a uniform pattern, it means that the washing machine 10 is stably maintained horizontally and the laundry is evenly distributed in the drum 3.

[0123] However, if Figure 7As shown in (b), if the movement of the washing machine accessory 600 shows a pattern of falling to one side, the washing machine 10 is out of balance and needs to be adjusted. The tilt direction can be detected and the user can be guided to adjust the level. In addition, the tilt degree can be detected to suggest the user the rotation direction and number of rotations of the bottom leveling foot (see Fig.13 ).

[0124] Figure 8 : is a graph showing the results of measurement using the turbidity sensor equipped with the washing machine 10. The points on the graph are the values ​​measured by the turbidity sensor, and the range of detected values ​​is very wide. Values ​​above a certain level (200) continue to appear in the lower part of the graph, reflecting the degree of contamination of the actual washing water. However, the values ​​appearing in a higher and wider range are because the turbidity sensor has flowed into the foam, making it impossible to measure the accurate turbidity.

[0125] As the number of rinses increases, the foam decreases, the turbidity decreases, and the washing water becomes clear, but due to the presence of foam, it is still difficult to measure the accurate turbidity. In addition, since the turbidity sensor is located at the bottom of the washing machine 10, it will be attached with dirt such as water stains, and may not function normally after long-term use.

[0126] Therefore, the washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention is itself equipped with a turbidity sensor 611, which can be unaffected by the foam and measure the pollution degree of the washing water accurately. Fig. 9 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a flow path 611 of a housing 610 according to the present invention.

[0127] The washing machine accessory 600 may include a flow path 611 penetrating the interior of the housing 610, and a turbidity sensor 611 disposed in the flow path 611. One side and the other side of the flow path 611 are connected to the exterior of the housing 610, and the washing water in the exterior, i.e., the drum 3, may flow into and pass through the flow path 611.

[0128] The inlet 612 and outlet of the flow path 611 are located in different directions. The flow path 611 is composed of a first flow path 6111 extending vertically from the inlet 612, a second flow path 6112 bent from the first flow path 6111, and a third flow path 6113 bent again from the second flow path 6112 and extending toward the outlet.

[0129] The inlet 612 and the outlet of the flow path 611 do not have to be strictly distinguished, and one end of the flow path 611 can serve as both the inlet 612 for the washing water to flow in and the outlet.

[0130] The first flow path 6111 and the third flow path 6113 may be arranged parallel to each other, and the second flow path 6112 bends from the first flow path 6111 to reduce the flow rate of the wash water flowing from the inlet 612. If the wash water flows too fast in the flow path 611, it is difficult to measure the turbidity of the wash water.

[0131] The second flow path 6112 may have an angle of about 90° with the first flow path 6111. If the angle is too large, the flow rate is too fast; if the angle is too small, a U-shaped section may be formed in the flow path 611.

[0132] Since the U-shaped bend has the problem of washing water retention, Fig. 9 As shown, the first flow path 6111 and the second flow path 6112 may have an angle of about 90°, and the second flow path 6112 and the third flow path 6113 may have an angle of about 90°. The bent portion in the flow path 611 may form a curve so that the washing water flows smoothly without impact.

[0133] In order to make the washing water pass through the flow path 611 without stagnating, a piezoelectric element 627 for applying vibration may be added to the flow path 611. When an electric signal is applied, vibration is applied, and the flow of the washing water in the flow path 611 can be promoted.

[0134] In this embodiment, the piezoelectric element 627 is located on the side of the outlet 612, but its position is not limited thereto, and it can be configured in consideration of the configuration of the turbidity sensor 611 and other sensors, and a plurality of piezoelectric elements can also be provided.

[0135] The turbidity sensor 611 located in the flow path 611 can measure the turbidity of the wash water flowing in through the flow path 611. Fig. 9 As shown, the turbidity sensor 611 may be located at the same distance from both ends of the flow path 611 , and a light emitting portion 611 a and a light receiving portion 611 b may be arranged on both sides in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the flow path 611 .

[0136] The light emitting part 611a includes an LED module, and the light receiving part 611b may include a photodiode. The light emitting part 611a and the light receiving part 611b are located inside the housing 610, but are exposed to moisture through the flow path 611, and thus may be covered with a transparent waterproof cap. The degree of contamination of the washing water may be measured by the degree to which the light emitted from the light emitting part 611a is received by the light receiving part 611b, so as to set the time of the rinsing operation.

[0137] In order to remove the foam of the washing water flowing into the flow path 611, the inlet 612 and the outlet of the flow path 611 may include a mesh filter 615 that prevents the foam from passing through. The foam of the washing water passing through the filter 615 is removed, so that the pollution degree of the washing water can be accurately measured. In order to fix the filter 615 to the flow path 611, a cylindrical elastic tube 616 combined with the inner side of the filter 615 may be included.

[0138] The turbidity sensor 611 of the washing machine accessory 600 measures the turbidity of the washing water after the bubbles are removed, can detect the degree of contamination of the washing water, and can adjust the time of the rinsing operation.

[0139] The turbidity sensor equipped in the washing machine 10 itself cannot measure the exact contamination of the washing water due to the influence of foam, but the rinsing operation not only removes dirt but also foam. Therefore, the value of the turbidity sensor of the washing machine 10 itself can also be used to determine the time of the rinsing operation.

[0140] If the value difference between the turbidity sensor of the washing machine 10 and the turbidity sensor 611 of the washing machine accessory 600 is still very large after repeated rinsing operations, it is determined that there is too much foam, and the user can be advised to use a detergent that produces less foam.

[0141] Alternatively, the turbidity sensor of the washing machine 10 is considered to be contaminated, and the user can be guided to clean the turbidity sensor (see Fig.12 ).

[0142] Fig.10 1 is a schematic diagram showing a washing process using the washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention. It includes a method for additionally controlling using information received from the washing machine accessory 600 during a washing process without using the washing machine accessory 600. The colored steps in the flowchart are related to the control method using information collected from the washing machine accessory 600.

[0143] First, the washing tub is rotated to calculate the weight and moment of inertia of the laundry for setting the washing time (S111). At this time, if the washing machine 10 sensor detects moisture (S113), it is determined to be wet laundry, and in order to measure the accurate weight, a dehydration operation (pre-dehydration) can be performed (S115).

[0144] Pre-dehydration can be performed at a specified time, or it can also be performed in proportion to the detected weight. Pre-dehydration is to reduce weight error rather than to extend the washing time, so it does not need to be completely dehydrated, and the dehydration time does not need to be too long, which is set to 1 minute in this embodiment.

[0145] At this time, the moisture is measured again. If the humidity has not dropped below a certain level, pre-spinning can be performed again. However, in order not to extend the washing time, additional pre-spinning can be omitted and the weight and moment of inertia can be directly calculated (S117, S119).

[0146] Based on the measured weight and moment of inertia, the washing operation time, rinsing operation time and dehydration operation time can be set. In the subsequent washing process, the time can be adjusted according to the turbidity of the washing water and the material of the washing.

[0147] After the weight of the laundry and the moment of inertia of the drum 3 are calculated, the washing operation (S121) is started. The washing operation is a process of removing dirt by inducing friction of the laundry after a certain amount of water and detergent is injected by rotating the drum 3. Different from the dehydration operation, the washing operation rotates while changing the rotation direction of the drum 3, and the rotation speed is not performed too fast.

[0148] At this time, the washing machine accessory 600 located inside the drum 3 moves inside the drum 3. If the amount of laundry is small or the volume of laundry is small, the washing machine accessory 600 will roll or fall inside the drum 3. At this time, the washing machine accessory 600 will be subjected to a greater impact.

[0149] In addition, if the laundry is winter clothes or quilts filled with cotton wool, since the laundry is relatively soft, the amount of impact received by the washing machine accessory 600 may be small and the moving distance may be short.

[0150] The force sensor 623 detects the impact amount applied to the washing machine accessory 600 (S123) to extract the characteristics of the laundry. For example, if the mode is not the quilt washing mode but the impact amount is too small, the mode can be changed to the quilt washing mode and the washing time can be adjusted (S125).

[0151] Or, if the impact is large, it is determined that the laundry is thin or small, and the washing time and mode can be adjusted. In addition, the information obtained from the position sensor such as the aforementioned acceleration sensor or gyroscope sensor can be used to extract the action of the washing machine accessory 600 according to the laundry.

[0152] By learning the pattern of the force sensor 623 through artificial intelligence, the material and capacity of the laundry can be distinguished by simply inserting the washing machine accessories 600, and the optimal washing time and washing method can be set.

[0153] In particular, the washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention is equipped with a plurality of force sensors 623 , and the accurate movement pattern of the washing machine accessory 600 can be derived by combining the impact amounts of each force sensor 623 .

[0154] After the washing operation is completed, a rinsing operation is performed (S131). The rinsing operation is an operation of injecting clean water into the drum 3 to remove dirt and detergent attached to the laundry, and can be performed multiple times.

[0155] Normally, the rinsing operation is performed a prescribed number of times and for a prescribed time according to the selected washing operation, but if the contamination level detected from the turbidity sensor 611 does not drop below the reference value (S133, S135), the rinsing time and number of times may be increased (S137).

[0156] At this time, from the value of the turbidity sensor 611, the value obtained by the turbidity sensor 611 of the washing machine 10 itself may be an inaccurate value due to foam, and therefore, based on the information extracted from the washing machine accessory 600, the contamination degree of the washing water can be accurately derived.

[0157] If the value of the turbidity sensor 611 is above a specific turbidity, the rinsing time is added to readjust the washing time, and the value of the turbidity sensor 611 of the washing machine 10 itself can also be used to measure the amount of foam. However, as mentioned above, if the turbidity sensor 611 of the washing machine 10 itself is contaminated and cannot extract an accurate value, only the value of the turbidity sensor 611 of the washing machine accessory 600 can be used.

[0158] If the error between the turbidity sensor value 611 of the washing machine accessory 600 and the turbidity sensor value of the washing machine 10 is large, it can be determined that the turbidity sensor of the washing machine 10 is contaminated, and the user can be guided to clean it.

[0159] When the turbidity drops below the reference, the rinsing operation may be terminated and the dehydration operation may be performed (S141). During the dehydration operation, the humidity sensor 622 of the washing machine accessory 600 may be used to adjust the washing time until the moisture is detected to be below a certain level.

[0160] Figures 11 to 13 1 is a schematic diagram showing a terminal screen for providing a user with the status of the washing machine 10 and controlling the washing machine 10 through an external terminal when washing is performed using the washing machine accessory 600 of the present invention.

[0161] After the washing machine accessory 600 is put into the drum 3 , the washing machine 10 will be connected to the accessory via short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, so as to receive information from the washing machine accessory 600 .

[0162] This information is transmitted to a terminal connected to the washing machine 10. Fig.11 As shown in (a), an icon ① of the washing machine accessory 600 will be generated or activated on the screen. Fig.11As shown in (b), the information collected from the washing machine accessory 600 can be confirmed. Alternatively, the washing machine accessory 600 can also directly communicate wirelessly with the terminal and transmit information.

[0163] The washing machine accessory 600 can display the progress and remaining time of the washing operation ②. The washing strength ③ can be provided based on the impact amount detected from the force sensor 623. The greater the impact amount detected from the force sensor 623 of the washing machine accessory 600, the greater the effect caused by the friction between the laundry and the water, and the better the washing strength. Based on this, the washing strength can be displayed as a numerical value. The speed of the motor is proportional to the impact amount of the force sensor 623, but as the use time increases, the speed (RPM) value of the motor of the washing machine 10 may decrease, so the speed (RPM) value that can increase the washing strength can be adjusted based on the value of the force sensor 623 of the washing machine accessory 600.

[0164] The measured contamination level of the washing water (4) may be provided by the turbidity sensor 611. The contamination level of the washing water in the figure only shows the value measured from the washing machine accessory 600, but the turbidity sensor value of the washing machine 10 may also be provided together.

[0165] Fig.12 6 is a screen showing the comparison of the contamination level of the washing water measured by the turbidity sensor 611 of the washing machine accessory 600 and the turbidity sensor of the washing machine 10, providing additional information to the user. Fig.12 As shown in (a), by comparing the values ​​of the two turbidity sensors 611, the appropriateness of the amount of foam can be determined, or it can be determined whether the turbidity sensor of the washing machine 10 is contaminated.

[0166] Fig.12 (b) provides information on the special detergent for the drum 3 to the user, and can guide the user to use the detergent suitable for the washing machine 10. A button for directly connecting to a shopping website for purchase can be displayed.

[0167] like Fig.12 As shown in (c), if it is determined that the turbidity washing sensor of the washing machine 10 is contaminated, the turbidity sensor 611 inside the washing machine 10 can be cleaned. For a washing machine 10 that is not equipped with a turbidity sensor 611 cleaning function, the firmware is updated to control the washing machine 10 to centrally supply washing water around the turbidity sensor 611 and to rotate the drum 3 to induce friction.

[0168] like Fig.11 As shown in (b), it is possible to determine whether there is wet laundry before washing and provide this to the user ⑤, and it is possible to provide the user with whether the levelness of the washing machine 10 has been adjusted ⑥ through the position detection sensor 624.

[0169] Fig.13The screen of the terminal showing the levelness of the washing machine 10 and guiding the correction of the eccentricity. Fig.13 As shown in (a), the movement of the washing machine accessory 600 can be visually provided and a guide can be provided to solve the problem.

[0170] Fig.13 (b) specifically provides information on a method of operating the leveling feet of the bottom surface in order to adjust the level of the washing machine 10.

[0171] According to the present invention, accurate turbidity measurement can be achieved using the washing machine accessory 600, so that the rinsing operation time can be accurately calculated.

[0172] In addition, the washing machine accessory 600 detects humidity and can accurately calculate the load amount so that the optimal washing time can be set.

[0173] In addition, the type of laundry can be detected by the impact amount detected by the washing machine accessory 600, so that the washing operation can be selected according to the laundry.

[0174] In addition, the inclination of the washing machine 10 is detected by the movement of the washing machine accessory 600, and the level adjustment is guided, so that the washing efficiency can be improved and the noise can be reduced.

[0175] The above detailed description should not be interpreted as limiting in all aspects, but should be considered as illustrative. The scope of the present invention should be determined according to the reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all changes made within the equivalent scope of the present invention are included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A washing machine accessory, wherein: include: a housing including a flow path open at both ends; a filter covering the inlet and outlet of the flow path and removing foam; a turbidity sensor formed in the flow path; as well as A wireless communication module transmits information received from the turbidity sensor to an external device.

2. The washing machine accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also included is an elastic tube, which is coupled to the inner side of the filter and has an outer diameter corresponding to the size of the flow path; The elastic tube is inserted into the inlet and outlet of the flow path to fix the filter.

3. The washing machine accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: The turbidity sensor comprises: A light emitting portion and a light receiving portion are arranged to face each other on both sides of a position of the flow path.

4. The washing machine accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flow path comprises: a first flow path extending from the inlet; a second flow path bent from the first flow path; and a third flow path bent from the second flow path and connected to the outlet; The turbidity sensor is located in the second flow path.

5. The washing machine accessory according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first flow path and the third flow path are parallel.

6. The washing machine accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: A piezoelectric element is included to apply vibration to the flow path.

7. The washing machine accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: comprising a contact humidity sensor exposed on an outer side of the housing; When the humidity sensor detects moisture, the wireless communication module transmits the detected humidity to an external device.

8. The washing machine accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: comprising a plurality of force sensors disposed on the housing; The wireless communication module transmits the impact amount detected by the force sensor to the external device.

9. The washing machine accessory according to claim 8, characterized in that: The housing is in the shape of a cube with six faces; The force sensors are located on at least three surfaces.

10. The washing machine accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: comprising a position information sensor disposed on the housing, the position information sensor comprising at least one of a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor; The wireless communication module transmits the movement information of the housing acquired from the position information sensor to the external device.

11. The washing machine accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: The housing is in the shape of a cube with six faces; The washing machine accessory further includes a wireless charging coil arranged on one side of the housing.

12. A washing machine, characterized in that: include: The box body forms the exterior; A drum is rotatably disposed in the box and contains laundry; A driving unit for rotating the drum; A water supply unit, supplying water into the drum; A wireless communication module for sending and receiving wireless signals; as well as A control unit, controlling the driving unit, the water supply unit and the wireless communication module to perform a washing operation, a rinsing operation and a dehydration operation; The wireless communication module receives first turbidity information provided by a washing machine accessory inserted into the drum; The time of the rinsing operation is reset based on the first turbidity information.

13. The washing machine according to claim 12, characterized in that: Also included is a turbidity sensor located at the lower portion of the box; If the first turbidity information received from the washing machine accessory and the second turbidity information measured by the turbidity sensor differ by more than a reference value, the control unit performs at least one of cleaning the turbidity sensor and recommending replacement of detergent.

14. The washing machine according to claim 12, characterized in that: The wireless communication module receives the humidity of the laundry provided by the washing machine accessories put into the drum; If the humidity is higher than the reference humidity, the control unit measures the weight of the laundry in the drum and the rotational inertia of the drum after performing the pre-spinning operation to calculate the washing time.

15. The washing machine according to claim 12, characterized in that: The wireless communication module receives an impact amount provided by a washing machine accessory inserted into the drum; If the impact amount is greater than or equal to a first reference value, the control unit determines that the load amount is small, and if the impact amount is less than or equal to a second reference value, the control unit determines that the load amount is large, and calculates the washing time.

16. The washing machine according to claim 12, characterized in that: The wireless communication module receives motion information provided by a washing machine accessory inserted into the drum; If the motion information exhibits an irregular pattern, a level correction alarm for the washing machine is provided.

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