Method for reducing foam and washing machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for reducing foam and a washing machine. The washing machine according to one embodiment of the present invention injects a fabric softener and removes or confirms foam generation, and stores history information, thereby providing guidance information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for reducing foam and a washing machine. Background Art

[0002] When an excessive amount of detergent is injected during the washing process, foam is generated, the rinsing process is repeated, and the washing duration increases. In addition, during the process of rinsing clothes with a large amount of water, the water consumption increases.

[0003] However, there are cases where a user injects a large amount of detergent without knowing the exact amount of the detergent. Therefore, a method for reducing foam generation and various components related thereto are needed. In particular, in order to reduce foam generation, techniques for guiding the input amount of the detergent and techniques for reducing the generated foam are needed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical Objectives

[0005] Accordingly, the present disclosure aims to solve the above problems. The object of the present disclosure is to propose a solution for quickly removing detergent foam during the washing process.

[0006] The object of the present disclosure is to propose a solution for injecting a fabric softener to quickly remove detergent foam during the washing process.

[0007] The object of the present disclosure is to propose a solution for selectively injecting a fabric softener based on the amount of detergent foam generated during the washing process, the washing program, the past history, etc.

[0008] In addition, the present disclosure is proposed to solve the above problems. The object of the present disclosure is to provide a method in which, when an operation of detecting and removing foam is performed during the washing process, guidance information based on the performed operation is provided to the user.

[0009] The object of the present disclosure is to provide a method in which, in response to injecting a detergent in an amount greater than a reference amount to generate foam, guidance information regarding the use of the detergent is provided to the user to prevent an increase in the clothes rinsing duration due to foam generation.

[0010] The object of the present disclosure is to provide a method in which, in response to a large amount of detergent being put into the washing machine by the user, the user can check the guidance information through a smartphone or the washing machine during or after the washing is finished to prevent excessive detergent input.

[0011] The object of the present invention is not limited to the above object. Other objects and advantages not mentioned in the present invention can be understood based on the following description and can be more clearly understood based on the embodiments according to the present invention. In addition, it will be readily understood that the objects and advantages according to the present invention can be achieved by using the means shown in the claims or combinations thereof.

[0012] Technical solution

[0013] A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a function module including a fabric softener injection module and configured to perform washing, rinsing, and drying functions, wherein the function module is configured to perform a first foam removal logic via water supply and drainage, or perform a second foam removal logic via water supply and drainage and by injecting a fabric softener using the fabric softener injection module; and a controller configured to: check for foam generation during the operation of the function module; and select the first foam removal logic or the second foam removal logic based on the amount of foam generated and the process information set in the function module; and control the function module according to the selected foam removal logic.

[0014] A method for reducing foam by injecting a fabric softener to remove foam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the steps of: performing a set process by a function module of a washing machine; checking for foam generation during the operation of the function module by a controller of the washing machine, and the controller selecting a first foam removal logic or a second foam removal logic based on the amount of foam generated and the process information set in the function module; a first foam removal step, in which in response to the first foam removal logic being selected, the function module performs foam removal via water supply and drainage; and a second foam removal step, in which in response to the second foam removal logic being selected, the function module performs foam removal via water supply and drainage and the injection of the fabric softener.

[0015] A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure configured to provide guidance information on a detergent to reduce foam includes: a function module for performing each of the washing, rinsing, and drying functions; a controller configured to: check for foam generation during the operation of the function module; perform a foam removal function of the function module; generate historical information on the execution of the foam removal function; and store the historical information in a memory; and a washing machine communicator configured to send the historical information to a server under the control of the controller.

[0016] A method for providing guidance information on a detergent to reduce foam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the following steps: checking, by a controller of a washing machine, foam generation during an operation of a functional module of the washing machine, and performing, by the controller, a foam removal function of the functional module based on a check result; generating, by the controller, historical information on an execution of the foam removal function, and storing, by the controller, the historical information in a memory; and controlling, by the controller, a washing machine communicator of the washing machine to send the historical information to a server.

[0017] A method for providing guidance information on a detergent to reduce foam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes the following steps: receiving, by a server communicator of a server, historical information on an operation of a foam removal function from a washing machine; generating, by a server controller of the server, guidance information based on the historical information; and sending, by the server controller of the server, the generated guidance information to a user terminal linked to the washing machine.

[0018] Technical effects

[0019] According to the present invention, detergent foam during a washing process can be quickly removed.

[0020] According to the present invention, a fabric softener can be added to quickly remove detergent foam during a washing process.

[0021] According to the present invention, a fabric softener can be selectively injected based on the amount of detergent foam generated during a washing process, a washing program, past history, etc.

[0022] According to the present invention, when an operation of detecting and removing foam is performed during a washing process, guidance information based on the performed operation is provided to a user.

[0023] According to the present invention, in response to injecting a detergent in an amount greater than a reference amount to generate foam, guidance information on detergent use is provided to a user so as to prevent an increase in a duration of rinsing clothes due to foam generation.

[0024] According to the present invention, in response to a large amount of detergent put into a washing machine by a user, the user can check guidance information through a smartphone or the washing machine during or after a washing ends to prevent excessive detergent input.

[0025] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the above effects, and those skilled in the art can easily derive various effects of the present disclosure according to the configuration of the present disclosure. Brief description of the drawings

[0026] Figure 1It is a diagram showing the configuration of a foam removal process and device in a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing the process of a washing machine removing foam according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 4 It is a diagram for determining foam generation according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing the determination process of the injection amount of fabric softener according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing the interaction between a washing machine, a server, and a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7 and Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the display of guidance information related to foam removal on a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 9 It is a diagram showing the process and device configuration of a washing machine providing guidance on the amount of detergent to be injected according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 10 and Figure 11 It is a view showing the foam sensing process during the operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing the process of a washing machine generating and outputting guidance information on an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing the components of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 14 It is a diagram showing the components of a server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 15 It is a diagram showing the process for sensing excessive detergent according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 16 It is a diagram showing the guidance information displayed on a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation Modes

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains can easily implement the present disclosure. The present disclosure can be implemented in several different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0041] To clearly describe the present disclosure, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted, and throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same or similar components. In addition, some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary drawings. When attaching reference numerals to the components of each drawing, even if shown in different drawings, the same components can be denoted by the same reference numerals as much as possible. In addition, when determining that a detailed description of a related known component or function may obscure the gist of the present disclosure, its detailed description may be omitted.

[0042] When describing the components of the present disclosure, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b) may be used. The terms are only used to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, sequence, order, quantity, etc. of the corresponding components are not limited by the terms. It should be understood that when the first component is referred to as "connected to", "joined to" or "coupled to" the second component, the first component can be directly connected to or joined to or coupled to the second component, or one or more intermediate components may exist between them.

[0043] In addition, in the embodiments of the present disclosure, for the convenience of description, the components can be subdivided. However, the component can be implemented in one device or module, or one component can be implemented in multiple devices or modules.

[0044] In the present disclosure, two solutions are proposed to solve the problem of foam generation caused by excessive detergent.

[0045] In the past, in a washing machine, when an excessive amount of detergent was injected during the washing process, water was injected to remove the foam, and the rinsing process was repeated. However, there is a problem that the amount of water injected during this process increases and the washing duration becomes longer. Therefore, an effective method for removing foam while saving water and duration is needed. Therefore, a solution for removing foam in the case of foam generation will be described below.

[0046] Traditionally, a washing machine provides a foam detection function to detect foam generation during the washing process. When foam is detected, a predetermined operation for removing the foam can be additionally performed.

[0047] However, when the user puts in a larger amount of detergent than the reference amount, foam is generated. Therefore, in addition to sensing the foam, a technique for guiding the user to inject a smaller amount of detergent is required. Accordingly, the present disclosure relates to a scheme for pre-informing the user of foam generation to reduce the possibility of foam generation next time.

[0048] Accordingly, in order to reduce foam, the present disclosure proposes a method and a washing machine for removing foam by injecting a fabric softener.

[0049] In addition, the present disclosure proposes a method and a washing machine for providing guidance information on detergent to reduce foam.

[0050] Hereinafter, a method and an apparatus for removing foam detected during a washing process performed by a washing machine will be described.

[0051] Figure 1 FIG. is a diagram showing a configuration of a foam removal process and apparatus in a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] In S1, the washing machine 100 detects foam and injects a fabric softener to remove the foam. Additionally, operation information related to such foam removal can be sent from the washing machine 100 to the server 300. The washing machine 100 can send information about each of its operations (start time, end time, performed functions, amount of fabric softener injected during foam removal, etc.) to the server 300 and store the information in the server 300 in S2.

[0053] In another example, in process S1, when there is information related to foam removal to be notified to the user, the washing machine 100 can store the relevant information in the washing machine 100. Thereafter, the stored information can be notified to the user from the washing machine after the washing is completed or at the time point when the door of the washing machine is opened.

[0054] In S3, the server 300 can send the information provided by the washing machine 100 to the user terminal 500 as a push message. In this regard, the user terminal 500 is a terminal owned by the user who owns or uses the washing machine 100, and the user terminal 500 can be linked to the washing machine 100 via the server 300.

[0055] The linking manner between the user terminal 500 and the washing machine 100 can be implemented in various ways, such as a way in which the washing machine 100 provides information for linking to the corresponding user terminal 500, a way in which the user terminal 500 installs a predetermined application for linking to the washing machine 100. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0056] In Figure 1In the configuration, the washing machine 100 can provide operation information to the user, indicating that during the washing process, the washing machine 100 has detected foam caused by excessive detergent, and fabric softener has been injected to remove the foam and the foam removal operation has been performed.

[0057] Excessive detergent refers to a situation where the amount of detergent input is large compared to the amount or weight of the laundry, or the amount of detergent is large compared to the amount of water. Alternatively, excessive detergent refers to a situation where a large amount of detergent is injected based on a specific reference set in the washing machine. Alternatively, excessive detergent refers to a situation where the amount of residual detergent during the washing process exceeds a predetermined reference. In the present disclosure, excessive detergent refers to various states where a large amount of detergent is input compared to a preset reference.

[0058] Figure 2 FIG. is a diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 2 FIG. is a diagram showing the components of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] The washing machine 100 includes a function module 190 for performing washing, rinsing, and dehydration or spin-drying functions, a controller 150, a washing machine communicator 160, an interface 170, and a memory 180. The function module 190 includes a washing tub and includes a motor for controlling the washing tub and auxiliary devices for water supply and drainage. More specifically, the function module 190 may include a fabric softener injection module 192 and a circulation pump 194.

[0061] The function module 190 includes a fabric softener injection module 192 and is configured to perform washing, rinsing, and spin-drying functions. In addition, the function module 190 performs a first foam removal logic via water supply and drainage and a second foam removal logic via water supply and drainage and injecting fabric softener using the fabric softener injection module 192. The second foam removal logic refers to the logic of the fabric softener injection module 192 injecting fabric softener to remove foam.

[0062] The controller 150 checks for foam generation during the operation of the function module 190, and when foam is detected, operates the foam removal function of the function module 190, generates operation information regarding the operation of the foam removal function, and stores the generated information in the memory 180. Specifically, the controller 150 may control the fabric softener injection module 192 to perform the foam removal function based on the washing process, the washing duration, and the amount of generated foam.

[0063] That is to say, the controller 150 can check the foam generation situation during the operation of the functional module, select the first foam removal logic or the second foam removal logic based on the amount of the generated foam and the process information set in the functional module 190, and control the functional module 190 according to the selected foam removal logic. In this regard, the foam removal logic includes a set of values for the determination criteria for removing foam, or information about the washing machine functions to be executed for removing foam. Alternatively, the foam removal logic includes instructions, programs, software, etc., which define the tasks that the controller 150 should execute to remove foam.

[0064] Under the control of the controller 150, the washing machine communicator 160 sends operation information related to foam removal to the server 300. That is to say, the washing machine communicator 160 sends the operation information related to the execution of the foam removal logic to the server 300.

[0065] In addition, the washing machine communicator 160 can receive the response result of the user to the operation information related to foam removal from the server 300. For example, the operation result includes content related to the injection of fabric softener. The user has checked the content through the user terminal 500 and can then select "stop the injection of fabric softener in the case of foam generation". When receiving such a response result, the controller 150 of the washing machine 100 removes the foam through processes such as rinsing and draining without injecting fabric softener into the washing space in the next case of foam generation.

[0066] During the operation of the foam removal function of the functional module 190, the types of operation information sent from the washing machine communicator 160 to the server 300 can include one or more of the increased value of the current for rotating the washing tub, the occurrence times of spin-dry delay, the vertical water level value, or the duration required for the foam removal function. In addition, the length of the duration of the delay (for example, when the initial expected washing duration is 1 hour and 10 minutes, but the actual washing duration becomes 1 hour and 30 minutes due to foam removal, with a 20-minute delay), the amount of water added due to water supply and spin-drying (several liters), the amount of fabric softener inserted, etc. can be included in the operation information.

[0067] In response to the operation result including content about the injection of fabric softener and the user who has checked the content through the user terminal 500 not separately instructing the user to stop the injection of fabric softener, the controller 150 of the washing machine 100 can effectively remove the foam by putting in fabric softener in the next case of foam generation.

[0068] The memory 180 stores information related to the operation of the washing machine 100 therein. Even when power is not supplied to the memory 180, the memory 180 can retain the stored information.

[0069] Figure 3 FIG. is a diagram showing a process of removing foam by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] When the amount of foam is greater than or equal to a reference value, or when the first end time point at which the first foam removal logic has been executed based on the set process information is later than the second end time point (as the end time point expected based on the process information), the controller 150 may select the second foam removal logic. For example, assume that the set process information is a quick wash process. In this regard, when the first foam removal logic is executed based on the amount of foam, etc., the controller 150 may determine that water supply and drainage are required three times. In addition, the controller 150 may calculate that the washing is completed at 1:20 p.m., which is 20 minutes later than the initial expected end time point of the quick wash process (e.g., 1:00 p.m.) because the foam removal process (the first foam removal logic) requires a duration of 20 minutes to be executed via water supply / drainage.

[0071] Therefore, when the second foam removal logic (fabric softener input scheme) is applied, the expected washing end time point is 1:05 p.m. Therefore, the controller 150 may apply the second foam removal logic to complete the quick wash process.

[0072] In S11, the controller 150 uses various sensors provided in the function module 190 or in the operating situation to detect the amount of foam. Then, in S12, the controller checks whether foam removal is required based on the detected amount of foam. When it is determined that foam removal is not required, the process proceeds to the spin-drying process in S19.

[0073] Otherwise, when it is determined that foam removal is required, in S13, the controller 150 activates the foam removal logic. In S14, the controller 150 checks whether the currently ongoing process is a process that should end faster than the standard process. When it is determined that the currently ongoing process is a process that needs to be completed quickly, quick foam removal is required. Therefore, the controller 150 operates the foam removal logic (the second foam removal logic). During this process, when the function module 190 performs water supply, in S16, the controller is further configured to control the fabric softener injection module 192 to inject fabric softener and operate the circulation pump 194.

[0074] Otherwise, if it is determined as "No" in step S14, then in S15, the controller 150 checks whether the amount of foam is large. In response to a large amount of foam, operation S16 (second foam removal logic) is also performed. On the other hand, in response to a small amount of foam, in S17, the controller 150 operates the general foam removal logic (first foam removal logic). After performing the foam removal operation of S17 or S16, the controller 150 checks in S18 whether the foam removal logic can be terminated. In S18, it can be determined whether to terminate the foam removal logic based on the remaining amount of foam calculated by the function module 190 or the sensor value. In response to the further need to execute the foam removal logic, the controller 150 can repeat operations S13 to S17.

[0075] When it is determined to terminate the foam removal logic in operation S18, in S19, the controller 150 performs spin-drying.

[0076] Figure 3 The embodiment shows a process of removing foam by injecting fabric softener in response to detecting a large amount of foam caused by detergent when the washing machine 100 washes, rinses, and spin-dries clothes. In particular, when a large amount of foam is detected during washing, rinsing, and spin-drying, the washing machine 100 can discharge the foam, inject water and fabric softener together to supply water containing fabric softener, and then control a circulation pump, etc., so that the fabric softener can circulate and perform operation processes such as tumbling, so that the fabric softener can be dispersed to remove the foam. In addition, the washing machine 100 discharges the washing water with the foam removed due to the use of fabric softener and enters the next operation.

[0077] When applying Figure 3 the embodiment, compared with the conventional drainage - water supply - drainage scheme for removing foam and the conventional scheme for reducing the concentration of detergent for clothes, foam can be removed with a small amount of water in a short time.

[0078] This scheme can use fabric softener to reduce the possibility of generating foam, thereby reducing the amount of water and the duration required to remove the foam.

[0079] During Figure 3 the process, the controller 150 can measure the amount of fabric softener injected. In addition, based on the amount of fabric softener injected for removing foam, fabric softener can be injected at a time point such as the last rinse moment of the default injected fabric softener (timely injection time point), or the amount of fabric softener that needs to be injected can be calculated by the controller. In addition, the controller 150 controls the injection of fabric softener at an appropriate injection time point based on a certain amount of fabric softener that has been input during the foam removal process.

[0080] In order to effectively remove foam in response to a large amount of foam being generated in the washing machine during washing, rinsing, and spin-drying of the washing machine 100, when the controller 150 determines that a large amount of foam has been generated, the washing water containing foam in the washing machine is drained, and then fabric softener is injected together with water to chemically remove the foam.

[0081] To this end, in response to insufficient drainage due to foam generation during spin-drying, the vertical height of the water level rises to the vertical height of the washing tub, and the controller 150 can determine that foam has been generated. This corresponds to an embodiment in which the controller 150 checks for foam generation based on the vertical height information of the water level detected by the water level sensor constituting the function module 190.

[0082] Alternatively, in response to a decrease in the actual RPM compared to the target RPM due to the resistance caused by foam generation during spin-drying execution, the controller 150 can determine that foam has been generated. Refer to Figure 4 A description of the foam generation determination process based on RPM is given.

[0083] Figure 4 It is a diagram for determining foam generation according to an embodiment of the present invention. The washing tub constituting the function module 190 can be rotated by a motor. In this regard, in response to the generation of a large amount of foam, the RPM of the motor for rotating the washing tub increases, and spin-drying is delayed.

[0084] The controller 150 can determine whether spin-drying is delayed due to foam based on whether the RPM increases, as shown in the Figure 4 graph.

[0085] In addition, P1, P2, and P3 respectively represent periods for measuring the RPM of the motor that rotates the washing tub for spin-drying. At the end of each period of spin-drying, as shown by 41, 42, 43, and 44, the RPM rises rapidly. This corresponds to the case where a large amount of foam is generated in the washing tub. Therefore, when the RPM increases rapidly as described above, the controller 150 can determine that the internal and external friction in the washing tub increases, and can determine that the increase in friction is caused by foam generation.

[0086] When the RPM increases, the controller 150 can inject fabric softener to remove the foam.

[0087] Figure 5It is a diagram showing a process for determining the injection amount of a fabric softener according to an embodiment of the present invention. In S21, the controller 150 determines the amount of foam and the washing process. Embodiments for determining the amount of foam are based on the use of a water level sensor, an increase in RPM, or an analysis of an image captured by an internal camera. The controller 150 compares the duration taken to remove the foam with the duration taken to perform the washing process and determines whether to remove the foam using general foam removal logic or by injecting a fabric softener based on the comparison result.

[0088] In addition, in S22, the controller 150 determines whether a fabric softener can be injected into the laundry. The controller 150 determines the necessity of injecting the fabric softener based on the type of the laundry. Further, in S23, the controller 150 checks whether the user has previously agreed to use the fabric softener to perform the foam removal logic. This includes a process of sending the user's consent or non-consent result to the server 300 when the user consents or does not consent to removing the foam via the injection of the fabric softener on an option regarding the foam removal logic displayed on the user terminal 500.

[0089] In response to the user previously disagreeing to remove the foam using the fabric softener via the user terminal 500 or the like, the controller 150 can control the washing machine 100 not to perform the foam removal function using the fabric softener.

[0090] The controller 150 can determine whether it is necessary to use the fabric softener to remove the foam based on the determination and inspection results in S21 to S23, and can enter the Figure 3 operation S16 or S17 based on the determination result in S23. Further, in S23, the controller 150 can determine the injection amount of the fabric softener based on the determined amount of foam.

[0091] For example, when the washing process is a quick wash, the controller 150 can inject a large amount of fabric softener to remove the foam.

[0092] In addition, even when the user agrees to remove the foam using the fabric softener, the controller 150 can inject a large amount of fabric softener to remove the foam. In response to the user not separately expressing consent or opposition to removing the foam using the fabric softener even after checking the foam removal operation information regarding the injection of the fabric softener via the user terminal 500, this user response is stored as response information in the memory 180 of the washing machine 100.

[0093] The controller 150 can adjust the amount of fabric softener to be added during the foam removal process based on the response information.

[0094] When the user agrees to use fabric softener to remove foam through a user terminal 500 or the like, the controller 150 injects a large amount of fabric softener to effectively remove the foam. However, when the user does not separately express consent or opposition to using fabric softener to remove foam, the controller 150 injects an intermediate amount of fabric softener to remove the foam and save the amount of fabric softener. In response to the user expressing opposition to using fabric softener to remove foam, the controller 150 performs a foam removal operation without injecting fabric softener. In addition, the history of the user's opposition and the corresponding operations can be sent to the user terminal 500 via the server 300.

[0095] When applying the above-described embodiment, the foam can be removed chemically by injecting fabric softener. Most types of detergents are composed of anionic surfactants. Therefore, when the amount of anionic surfactant is large, foam can be generated. In contrast, fabric softener is composed of cationic surfactants, which react with anionic surfactants, thereby inhibiting the activity of anionic surfactants. In this way, the foam generated by the detergent can be removed chemically.

[0096] The controller 150 can select the time points before the clothes are spin-dried and after the drainage process as the injection time points of the fabric softener for foam removal. At this time, the concentration of the detergent is the highest and foam is most easily generated.

[0097] Therefore, after draining the water, the controller 150 can supply the fabric softener and water together to remove the foam through the reaction between the anionic surfactant and the cationic surfactant, and can perform the spin-drying process.

[0098] When injecting the fabric softener, the controller 150 must operate the circulation pump 194 to maximize the foam removal effect of using the fabric softener. In addition, the controller 150 controls the injection amount of the fabric softener based on the amount of foam detected in the foam detection, so that an appropriate amount of fabric softener can be used to effectively remove the foam.

[0099] Figure 6 FIG. is a diagram showing the interaction between a washing machine, a server, and a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] In S31, the function module 190 of the washing machine 100 executes a set process. In addition, the controller 150 of the washing machine 100 checks for foam generation during the operation of the function module 190, and selects the first foam removal logic or the second foam removal logic based on the amount of foam generated and the process information set in the function module 190. In S32, the function module 190 of the washing machine 100 executes the selected first foam removal logic or the selected second foam removal logic.

[0101] When the first foam removal logic is selected, the functional module 190 performs foam removal via water supply and drainage. When the second foam removal logic is selected, the functional module 190 performs foam removal via water supply and drainage and the injection of fabric softener.

[0102] When the foam removal has been completed, in S33, the washing machine communicator 160 sends operation information related to the execution of the foam removal logic to the server 300. In S34, the server 300 generates guidance information based on the operation information. The guidance information may include the operation information unchanged. Alternatively, the guidance information may include a phrase that allows the user to check whether the user agrees or disagrees to inject fabric softener to remove foam.

[0103] In S35, the server 300 sends the guidance information to the user terminal 500. The guidance information sending scheme includes a push message sending scheme or a scheme using an alert of the app installed in the user terminal 500.

[0104] In S36 and S37, the user terminal 500 displays the guidance information and sends the result of the user's response or non - response to the guidance information to the server 300 as response information.

[0105] For example, in order to reduce the duration and water consumption spent in performing the foam removal process, the guidance information includes an interface asking "Do you use fabric softener when removing foam?" and an interface allowing the user to select "Yes" or "No" on the screen of the user terminal 500 in response thereto.

[0106] Alternatively, the guidance information includes an interface asking "Is the automatic detergent injection for foam removal activated?" and an interface allowing the user to select "Yes" or "No" on the screen of the user terminal 500 in response thereto.

[0107] Various guidance information for preventing the input of a large amount of detergent can be displayed on the screen. In response thereto, the user can respond by checking, agreeing or disagreeing, or not checking, etc. on the screen of the user terminal 500, and in S37, this response information is sent to the server 300. In S38, the server 300 sends the response information to the washing machine 100.

[0108] Then, in S39, the washing machine selects a foam removal logic scheme based on the response information. In addition, in response to the response information indicating that the automatic detergent injection function is to be activated, the washing machine 100 can prevent the input of excessive detergent by activating the automatic detergent injection function when setting the subsequent washing process.

[0109] Operation S39 will be described in more detail.

[0110] In S38, the washing machine communicator 160 receives response information to the operation information from the server 300. In this regard, in response to the response information indicating consent to the injection of the fabric softener when performing the foam removal logic, the controller 150 stores the response information in the memory. The controller 150 increases the possibility of selecting the second foam removal logic between the first foam removal logic and the second foam removal logic. Since the user has consented to the injection of the fabric softener, the controller 150 selects the second foam removal logic that uses the injection of the fabric softener when removing the foam, so as to improve the efficiency of foam removal next time.

[0111] A description will be given of a case contrary to the case where the response information indicates disagreement with the injection of the fabric softener.

[0112] In S38, the washing machine communicator 160 receives response information to the operation information from the server 300. In this regard, in response to the response information disagreeing with the injection of the fabric softener when performing the foam removal logic, the controller 150 stores the response information in the memory.

[0113] Then, during the subsequent washing process, the controller 150 selects the first foam removal logic between the first foam removal logic and the second foam removal logic. Therefore, no fabric softener is added during the foam removal process.

[0114] Figure 7 and Figure 8 is a diagram showing guidance information related to foam removal displayed on a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] Figure 7 is a diagram showing guidance information notifying the addition of a fabric softener for removing foam and allowing the user to check whether the scheme will be applied next time on the user terminal 500a.

[0116] When the user selects "Yes" displayed on the Figure 7 user terminal 500a, the obtained response information is sent to the server 300, and the server 300 in turn sends the response information to the washing machine 100. In addition, when the controller 150 of the washing machine 100 detects foam next time, the possibility of selecting the second foam removal logic for removing foam based on the fabric softener will be increased.

[0117] Otherwise, in response to the user selecting "No" displayed on the Figure 7 user terminal 500a, the obtained response information is sent to the server 300, and the server 300 in turn sends the response information to the washing machine 100. Then, when the controller 150 of the washing machine 100 detects foam next time, the controller selects the first foam removal logic that removes the foam only by supplying water and draining water without injecting the fabric softener.

[0118] Figure 8 FIG. showing guidance information displayed on user terminal 500b, the guidance information notifying the addition of fabric softener to remove foam and allowing the user to start or not start the automatic detergent injection function to inject an appropriate amount of detergent to prevent foam generation.

[0119] When the user selects "Yes" displayed on Figure 8 user terminal 500b, the obtained response information is sent to server 300, and server 300 then sends the response information to washing machine 100. Thereafter, controller 150 of washing machine 100 starts the automatic detergent injection function to inject detergent based on the washing process and the amount of laundry.

[0120] Otherwise, in response to the user selecting "No" displayed on Figure 8 user terminal 500b, the obtained response information is sent to server 300, and server 300 then sends the response information to washing machine 100. Therefore, controller 150 of washing machine 100 does not start the automatic detergent injection function. Then, when detecting the foam generation situation, the controller executes the foam removal logic in the same manner as before.

[0121] According to the above embodiment, in response to a large amount of foam being generated due to excessive detergent in the washing machine during the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying processes, the foam can be quickly removed to prevent the delay in spin-drying execution caused by foam generation and eliminate the user's dissatisfaction with the rinsing performance of the washing machine.

[0122] In the past, in response to a large amount of foam, the washing machine drained the water and foam in the washing machine and supplied and drained clean water in a way to remove the foam. This solution physically reduces the concentration of the detergent surfactant inside the washing machine to reduce the probability of foam generation or reduce the probability of adverse effects caused by foam (delay in the start of spin-drying execution, poor rinsing performance).

[0123] Embodiments of the present disclosure allow for chemically removing foam by introducing or injecting fabric softener. In addition, controller 150 of the washing machine determines whether to inject fabric softener in response to foam generation based on the washing process, washing duration, amount of foam, etc., so that the foam can be effectively removed.

[0124] In particular, in order to reduce the increase in the duration, electric energy, water volume, etc. caused by repeated water supply and drainage, controller 150 of the washing machine can determine whether to inject fabric softener to remove foam based on the amount of foam, based on the washing process, or according to the characteristics or type of the laundry. In addition, when removing foam by injecting fabric softener, the duration, water volume, and electric energy spent can be saved.

[0125] In addition, the washing machine 100 may provide information about excessive detergent injection to the user terminal 500 via the server 300, or display notification information about the application of the foam removal logic when the user approaches the washing machine 100, so that the user can inject an appropriate amount of detergent.

[0126] When it is determined that there is a large amount of foam during washing, rinsing, and spinning, the controller 150 of the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure discharges the water containing foam and detergent, and then injects fabric softener without a spinning process. In addition, in the case of washing where the detergent concentration is high and problems occur due to foam generation, the controller 150 may execute the foam removal logic at the start timing of spin execution and the first rinse timing.

[0127] The controller 150 may control the function module 190 to inject fabric softener together with water to remove foam during water supply, control the circulation pump to circulate the water and fabric softener for a predetermined duration to spread the fabric softener sufficiently, and then continue the drainage process. When injecting fabric softener, the circulation pump needs to operate so that the fabric softener and foam react with each other sufficiently to improve the defoaming performance. After the foam is removed, the controller 150 executes the spinning and next rinse processes.

[0128] In a washing machine having an automatic detergent injection device, in the case of washing that generates a large amount of foam, the controller 150 may remove the foam by applying the Figure 3 processing to the spin cycle. In a washing machine without an automatic detergent injection device, the controller 150 may remove the foam by applying the Figure 3 process to the water supply timing of the rinse cycle.

[0129] When applying the embodiment of injecting fabric softener to remove foam according to the present disclosure, more water and duration can be saved compared with the conventional drainage - water supply - drainage process or the conventional solution of reducing the surfactant concentration in the washing machine and clothes.

[0130] Hereinafter, a method and apparatus for providing guidance information about the input of detergent in response to foam generation detected during the washing process of a washing machine will be described.

[0131] Figure 9 FIG. is a diagram showing the configuration of a process and apparatus in which a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention provides guidance on the amount of detergent to be injected.

[0132] The washing machine 100 communicates with the server 300. In S101, the washing machine 100 may send information about each of its operations (start time, end time, executed functions, excessive detergent input information, etc.) to the server 300 and store the information in the server 300.

[0133] In another example, in S102, in response to there being information to be notified to the user during the washing process, the washing machine 100 may store the information in the washing machine 100 and notify the stored information to the user at the next time or after the washing is finished, or at the time point when the door of the washing machine is opened.

[0134] In S103, the server 300 may send the information provided by the washing machine 100 to the user terminal 500 in the form of a push message. In this case, the user terminal 500 is a terminal owned by the user who owns or uses the washing machine 100, and the user terminal 500 may be linked to the washing machine 100 via the server 300.

[0135] The linking manner between the user terminal 500 and the washing machine 100 may be implemented in various ways, such as a manner in which the washing machine 100 provides information for linking to the corresponding user terminal 500, a manner in which the user terminal 500 installs a predetermined application for linking to the washing machine 100. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0136] In Figure 9 this configuration, the washing machine 100 may detect foam caused by excessive detergent during the washing process and provide the user with guidance information on detergent input. To this end, the washing machine 100 may perform a process of detecting foam generation caused by the input of excessive detergent.

[0137] Figure 10 and Figure 11 are diagrams showing the process of sensing foam during the operation of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For the detailed structure of the washing machine, refer to Figure 13 . The washing machine detects foam during operation, then performs a function of removing the foam, and sends historical information related to foam detection and foam removal to the server 300.

[0138] Referring to Figure 10 , in S111, the washing machine 100 detects foam during the washing / rinsing / spinning process. In an embodiment where the washing machine detects foam, the washing machine 100 may detect foam based on the number of occurrences of spin drying delay caused by foam generation during operation. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the washing machine 100 may determine whether foam is generated based on the change in the vertical height of the water during the process of injecting or discharging water. In yet another embodiment, when the current increases during the rotation of the washing tub, the washing machine 100 may determine that the frictional force caused by foam generation has increased and thus foam has been generated.

[0139] In S112, the washing machine 100 detects foam and then performs a foam removal function. Thereafter, in S113, the washing machine 100 uses the various solutions described above to determine whether the foam has been removed. The washing machine 100 may repeat operations S112 and S113 until the foam has been removed.

[0140] When it is determined that the foam has been removed, in S114, the washing machine 100 stores historical information related to foam removal in a memory, and in S117, sends the historical information to the server 300. When receiving the historical information, the server 300 may generate guidance information based on the historical information.

[0141] The controller ( Figure 13 150) of the washing machine 100 may generate historical information including one or more of an increase in current value related to the rotation of the washing tub, the number of occurrences of spin-dry delay, the vertical water level value, or the duration required for the operation of the foam removal function during the process of executing the above-mentioned foam removal function (the process of executing the foam removal function) in the functional module ( Figure 13 190).

[0142] Referring to Figure 11 , in S117, the washing machine 100 sends the historical information to the server 300. In S121, the server 300 generates guidance information based on the historical information. The historical information includes information related to the number of times or duration of performing the foam removal operation, or the amount of water injected to remove the foam. In addition, the historical information includes information about the weight of the laundry or the washing / rinsing / spin-dry process. Alternatively, the historical information may include pictures, videos, etc. obtained by the washing machine 100 taking pictures of the inside of the washing tub.

[0143] The server 300 generates guidance information including content about appropriate detergent input based on the historical information. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the guidance information may include content prompting a decrease in the amount of detergent compared to the previous injection amount of the detergent that caused the foam removal process. Alternatively, the guidance information may include content prompting an increase in the amount of laundry compared to the previous injection amount of the detergent that caused the foam removal process. Alternatively, the guidance information may include information about the past injection amount of the detergent and information about the injection amount of the detergent that caused the foam removal process.

[0144] Alternatively, the guidance information may include a message notifying to reduce the amount of detergent input. In addition, the guidance information may include images or videos included in the historical information.

[0145] In S122, the server 300 sends guidance information to the user terminal 500. The user terminal 500 can display the guidance information on the screen of the user terminal. Alternatively, the guidance information can be sent to the user terminal 500 in the form of a push message, and the user can check the guidance information by touching the push message on the user terminal 500.

[0146] In S124, the user terminal 500 sends the result regarding whether the guidance information has been displayed thereon to the server 300. In operation S124, the guidance information can be sent to the washing machine 100 together with the result. In S125, the server 300 sends the result of displaying the guidance information on the user terminal to the washing machine 100. In response to the user not checking the guidance information or the user terminal 500 not displaying the guidance information thereon, in S126, the interface of the washing machine 100 can display the guidance information thereon.

[0147] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The implementation manner of Figure 13 the detailed configuration of the washing machine 100 connected to

[0148] The controller 150 of the washing machine 100 checks the foam generation situation during the operation of the functional modules of the washing machine 100, and operates the foam removal function of the functional module 190 based on the check results in S111 to S113. In S114, the controller 150 generates historical information regarding the operation of the foam removal function and stores the historical information in the memory. In S117, the controller 150 controls the washing machine communicator 160 of the washing machine 100 to send the historical information to the server 300.

[0149] Figure 12 is a diagram showing the process of a washing machine generating and outputting guidance information according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12 For S111 to S114 of Figure 10 the above description of the processes S111 to S114. After the washing machine 100 stores the foam removal historical information therein in S114, in S118, the washing machine generates guidance information and determines its output scheme. In this way, the washing machine 100 can provide guidance information to the user through the interface.

[0150] Then, in S119, the washing machine 100 outputs the guidance information to the interface in response to the user approaching the washing machine. The determination of the user approaching can be based on the functional module 190 constituting the washing machine 100 (see Figure 13is determined based on whether the lid of the washing machine 100 is open, whether the interface 170 of the washing machine 100 is controlled by the user, or whether a human body detection sensor installed in the washing machine 100 detects the approach of a user. To this end, the washing machine 100 may further include a separate human body detection sensor.

[0151] The interface 170 of the washing machine 100 may output a message including guidance information or a warning message for over-injection of detergent. According to an embodiment, the guidance information may include a warning message for over-injection of detergent.

[0152] For example, the washing machine 100 may output the guidance information "Since a large amount of foam has been generated, please reduce the amount of detergent input during the next wash" in a voice manner through a speaker. Alternatively, the guidance information may be visually output on the touch screen or LCD window of the washing machine 100.

[0153] According to Figures 10 to 12 an embodiment, when it is detected that foam is generated due to excessive detergent during washing, rinsing, and spinning, the washing machine 100 may detect the amount of excessive detergent based on the number of times of performing a foam removal movement or the amount of water injected, the duration of performing the foam removal movement, etc., and may provide guidance for preventing excessive detergent to the user based on the detected amount.

[0154] As the amount of detergent increases, the foam removal movement occurs frequently after foam detection. Therefore, the washing machine 100 may obtain the number of times of performing the foam removal movement or the amount of water injected per cycle, the duration of performing the foam removal movement, etc., and may predict the amount of detergent input per cycle based on the number of times of performing the foam removal movement or the amount of water injected per cycle, the duration of performing the foam removal movement, etc. obtained per cycle. In addition, the washing machine 100 may notify the user of a reduction in the amount of detergent input through an application of the user terminal 500, and may notify the user of the amount of detergent dose that should be reduced.

[0155] When receiving historical information regarding foam removal caused by excessive detergent from the washing machine 100, the server 300 may provide guidance information to the user terminal 500. The application program of the user terminal 500 may send to the server 300 whether the user has checked the provided guidance information (whether the guidance information is displayed on the terminal). In response to the guidance information not being displayed on the user terminal 500 or the user not checking the guidance information, the server 300 may instruct the washing machine 100 to output the guidance information thereon.

[0156] In addition, in a washing machine having an automatic detergent injection device, the guidance information may include information on whether the user agrees to automatic detergent input. When the customer agrees, the washing machine may reduce the amount of detergent input to an appropriate level.

[0157] For example, the guidance information sent to Figure 11 the user terminal 500 in may include an interface that allows the user to respond with "yes" or "no" as to whether to activate the automatic detergent injection function. Additionally, in response to information indicating that the user has agreed to the automatic detergent injection function in S123 and S124 being included in the guidance information display result, the server 300 may include indication information for indicating the activation of the automatic detergent injection function in the guidance information display result, and then may send the guidance information display result to the washing machine 100 in S125. Then, in operation S126, the washing machine 100 may configure the automatic detergent injection function.

[0158] Figure 13 is a diagram showing the components of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] The washing machine 100 includes a function module 190 for performing washing, rinsing, and spin-drying functions, a controller 150, a washing machine communicator 160, an interface 170, and a memory 180. The function module 190 includes a washing tub and includes a motor for controlling the washing tub and auxiliary devices for water supply and drainage.

[0160] During the operation of the function module 190, the controller 150 checks for foam generation, operates the foam removal function of the function module 190 based on the inspection result, generates historical information regarding the operation of the foam removal function, and stores the generated historical information in the memory 180.

[0161] The washing machine communicator 160 sends the historical information to the server 300 under the control of the controller 150.

[0162] As Figure 11 shown in S125 of, the washing machine communicator 160 may receive the guidance information display result from the server 300. Additionally, when the received guidance information display result indicates that no guidance information is to be displayed, the controller 150 may control the interface 170 of the washing machine 100 to output a message containing the guidance information or a detergent injection overdose warning message (refer to Figure 11 S126 of). The output scheme includes one or more of the output of an auditory message (voice) or the output of a visual message (text, graphics, etc.).

[0163] Additionally, the guidance information display result may further include an automatic detergent injection setting instruction on the washing machine 100. In this case, the controller 150 may activate the automatic detergent injection function of the washing machine 100. Thus, later, the function module 190 may automatically inject detergent based on the amount of laundry or the set washing program.

[0164] Figure 14FIG. is a diagram showing the components of a server according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0165] In S117 of, the server communicator 360 of the server 300 receives historical information on the operation of the foam removal function from the washing machine 100. In Figure 11 S121 of, the server controller 350 of the server 300 generates guidance information based on the historical information. Then, in S122, the server controller 350 sends the guidance information to the user terminal 500 linked to the washing machine 100. To this end, the database 380 of the server 300 may store therein identification information on the user terminal 500 corresponding to the washing machine 100 or identification information on the application installed in the user terminal 500. Figure 11

[0166] Then, in Figure 11 S124 of, the server communicator 360 receives the guidance information display result from the user terminal 500.

[0167] In one embodiment, the guidance information display result may further include an automatic detergent injection setting instruction on the washing machine 100.

[0168] In addition, the server communicator 360 may Figure 11 in S125 of send the guidance information display result received from the user terminal 500 to the washing machine 100. After that, the washing machine 100 may separately output a detergent injection overdose warning message, re-output the guidance information, or set the automatic detergent injection function based on the guidance information display result.

[0169] According to the above embodiment, when foam is detected due to excessive detergent during the washing, rinsing, and spinning processes performed by a washing machine implemented as a drum washing machine, the washing machine performs a removal motion for removing the foam. In addition, the washing machine 100 detects the amount of excessive detergent based on the number of occurrences of the foam removal motion, the motion duration, the amount of water used for foam removal, etc., and notifies the customer of the detection result. The amount of detergent and the number of foam generation removal motions (water supply / drainage times) are proportional to each other. Therefore, in response to the number of foam generation removal motions (operations of the foam removal function) being greater than a specific value, the controller 150 of the washing machine 100 notifies the server 300 of this situation. In addition, the server 300 provides guidance information (notification message) recommending to the customer to reduce the amount of detergent input through an application (or a user terminal linked to the washing machine). The user terminal 500 may display the notification message (guidance information).

[0170] Figure 15 ​FIG. is a diagram showing a process for sensing an excessive amount of detergent according to an embodiment of the present invention. In S131, the function module 190 of the washing machine 100 performs a foam removal motion under the control of the controller 150. In S132, the controller 150 of the washing machine 100 records factors corresponding to various physicochemical properties before and after the foam removal motion or determines factors corresponding to various physicochemical properties before and after performing the foam removal.

[0171] For example, the controller 150 may record factors calculated before and after performing the foam removal motion. Examples of these factors may include the number of occurrences of the foam removal motion, the motion duration, or the amount of water used for foam removal. Alternatively, factors according to an embodiment of the present invention may include the value of the RPM (revolutions per minute) of the motor related to the rotation of the washing tub, or an increase in its RPM when spin-drying is delayed due to foam. The increase in RPM has been referred to above Figure 4 for description.

[0172] Then, in S133 and S134, the controller 150 calculates the input detergent amount and the reference detergent amount based on the above factors.

[0173] To calculate the input detergent amount, the controller 150 may use information such as the weight or volume of the laundry, the amount and temperature of the water input during washing or rinsing, and the intensity of the washing power / rinsing power during the washing or rinsing process. In this calculation process, the controller 150 may calculate the excessive detergent amount. In addition, the controller 150 may also calculate the reference amount of detergent (the detergent amount that needs to be appropriately input) based on the calculated excessive detergent amount.

[0174] Thereafter, in S135, the controller 150 may control the washing machine communicator 160 to send information about the calculated amounts of detergent (the excessive detergent amount and the reference detergent amount) to the server 300. Alternatively, in S135, the controller 150 stores the calculated information, allows the interface 170 to output the stored information, and guides the amount of detergent to be injected when the user approaches the washing machine 100 at a later time.

[0175] As referred to above Figure 4 it has been described that, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the RPM factor may be adopted in the process of determining foam generation. The washing tub constituting the function module 190 may be rotated by a motor. In this regard, in response to the generation of a large amount of foam, the RPM of the motor for rotating the washing tub increases, and spin-drying is delayed. This has been described above.

[0176] That is, the controller 150 may determine whether spin-drying is delayed due to foam based on whether the RPM increases, as Figure 4 shown in the graph of. The descriptions of P1, P2, and P3 may be referred to Figure 4 .

[0177] The controller 150 may adopt the RPM in the process of determining whether foam has been generated or calculating factors related to foam removal.

[0178] According to the above embodiments, in response to foam being generated due to excessive detergent during washing, rinsing, or spinning of the washing machine 100, the washing machine may detect the foam generation situation and perform a removal movement to remove the foam. In addition, the washing machine 100 may set various parts such as the number of foam removal movements or the movement duration, and detect the excessive detergent amount based on each part. Then, during or after washing, based on the detection result, the customer may be guided to reduce the detergent through an application installed in the user terminal 500. In addition, during this process, the interface 170 of the washing machine 100 may output such information visually or auditorily.

[0179] After the washing is completed, the interface 170 of the washing machine 100 implemented as an LED or LCD window notifies the user that excessive detergent has been injected and guides the user to reduce the detergent amount. During this process, the washing machine 100 may guide the target amount of detergent in combination with the amount of laundry, the type of laundry, and the washing process.

[0180] When a large amount of foam is generated due to excessive detergent in the washing machine during the washing, rinsing, and spinning processes, the start of the spinning execution is delayed due to the foam, thereby increasing the washing duration and deteriorating the rinsing performance of the washing machine.

[0181] Therefore, according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, information related to foam generation is provided to the user in real time at the same time as the washing is completed or in response to the user approaching the washing machine, so that the user can receive guidance related to excessive detergent at an appropriate time.

[0182] The washing machine 100 may check whether there is no problem in the spinning execution based on the RPM, etc. Then, when it is determined that there is a problem in the spinning execution, the foam removal movement is repeated until there is no problem in the spinning execution. The washing machine 100 may calculate how much detergent has been injected based on the number of repetitions of the foam removal movement, the total duration of its repetition, the increase in RPM, the amount of water injected, etc.

[0183] The washing machine 100 may set various parts such as the number of foam removal movements or the movement duration. This setting may be stored in the memory 180, and the washing machine 100 may determine the amount of foam or the amount of excessive injected detergent in a manner corresponding to each part in the stored setting. That is, the washing machine 100 may match a predetermined amount of detergent with each part, and calculate the overcharge amount of the detergent and the reference amount of the detergent based on the matching result.

[0184] For example, the washing machine 100 may determine that the amount of excessive detergent for each round of foam removal movement is 5%. Additionally, the washing machine 100 may calculate the amount of excessive detergent for each round of the first to third rounds of foam removal movement as 5%, and then calculate the amount of excessive detergent for each round of foam removal movement as 3% starting from the fourth round of foam removal movement.

[0185] Conversely, in another example, starting from the fourth round of foam removal movement, the amount of excessive detergent for each round of foam removal movement may be calculated as 7%. In another example, the washing machine 100 may calculate the amount of excessive detergent related to contamination based on the amount of foam removed in each round of foam removal movement and the subsequently detected amount of foam.

[0186] The washing machine 100 may provide the user with guidance information regarding the classified foam level or the amount of excessive detergent and the reference amount of detergent suitable for the corresponding wash. In one embodiment, the washing machine 100 may guide the user to reduce the amount of detergent. The guidance information includes information on the amount of detergent for which the washing dose should be reduced or the appropriate amount of detergent. A washing machine equipped with an automatic detergent device may check whether the customer agrees to reduce the washing dose and reduce the washing dose according to the user's consent and settings.

[0187] The controller 150 of the washing machine 100 may apply various variables during the determination process of determining whether detergent is dispensed in an excessive amount (excessive detergent). For example, the controller 150 may set the determination condition regarding the reduced washing dose to vary based on the washing load amount, and may guide the washing dose to be suitable for the washing amount. Additionally, the controller 150 may set the determination condition regarding the reduced washing dose to vary based on the type of washing load, and may guide the washing dose suitable for the type of clothing.

[0188] Furthermore, the controller 150 may change the detergent determination condition based on the water temperature and season. Additionally, a washing machine capable of detecting the degree of contamination may set the detergent determination condition to vary based on the degree of contamination.

[0189] As described above, the guidance information regarding the washing dose is provided by the washing machine 100 or the user terminal 500, enabling the user to check the amount of detergent injection and alleviate the anxiety regarding the rinsing operation of the washing machine. Additionally, the washing machine 100 may provide guidance information to save the detergent wasted by the user. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the spin - dry delay caused by foam generation due to excessive detergent to prevent time delay.

[0190] The user can also check the level of the washing dose that the user has dispensed and address the poor rinsing performance caused by foam.

[0191] Figure 16FIG. is a diagram showing guidance information displayed on a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention. As Figure 16 shown, the user terminal 500 receives guidance information regarding completion of washing and excessive detergent input from the server 300 and outputs the guidance information.

[0192] When the content regarding injection of excessive detergent and the check button ("like" button) displayed on the screen of the user terminal 500 are selected, the user terminal 500 may send the guidance information display result to the server 300. In addition, when the user does not respond to the excessive detergent notification or selects the "next time" button, the server 300 may change the notification period of the excessive detergent.

[0193] According to this embodiment of the present disclosure, when the number of times of detecting foam is greater than a predetermined number, the application program of the user terminal 500 guides the foam generation situation in real time and realizes the response thereto (automatic detergent input).

[0194] Therefore, the user can identify in real time the foam generated due to excessive detergent during the washing process, and thus take actions against the excessive detergent more effectively. In addition, as in Figure 11 operation S124, the server 300 may increase or decrease the number of notifications of excessive detergent or the reference amount based on which the determination of excessive detergent is made, based on the guidance information display result on the user terminal 500, so that the user can be notified in an appropriate manner whether excessive detergent has occurred.

[0195] Embodiments of the present invention have been described in which all components are combined with each other or operate in combination with each other. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited to this embodiment. Within the scope of the object of the present invention, at least two of all components may be selectively combined with other components or operate in a manner selectively combined with other components. In addition, each component may be implemented as independent hardware. However, some or all of the components may be selectively combined with each other, and thus may be implemented using a computer program having program modules to execute some or all of the functions combined in one or more hardwares. The code and code segments constituting the computer program can be easily derived by those skilled in the art from the present disclosure. The computer program may be stored in a computer-readable medium and read and executed by a computer, thereby implementing the method of the present disclosure. The storage medium for storing the computer program may include a storage medium having a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, and a semiconductor recording device. In addition, the computer program implementing the embodiments of the present disclosure includes program modules transmitted in real time through an external device.

[0196] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, various changes or modifications can be applied to them at the level of those skilled in the art. Therefore, it will be understood that these changes and modifications are included within the scope of the present disclosure, unless they are outside the scope of the present disclosure.

[0197] -Reference Signs-

[0198] 100: Washing Machine 300: Server

[0199] 500: User Terminal

Claims

1. A washing machine, the washing machine comprising: A function module, the function module including a fabric softener injection module, and configured to perform washing, rinsing and spin-drying functions, wherein the function module is configured to perform a first foam removal logic via water supply and drainage, or perform a second foam removal logic via water supply and drainage and via injecting a fabric softener using the fabric softener injection module; and A controller, the controller being configured to: Check for foam generation during the operation of the function module; and Select the first foam removal logic or the second foam removal logic based on the amount of foam generated and the process information set in the function module; and Control the function module according to the selected foam removal logic.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, In response to the amount of foam generated being greater than or equal to a reference value or the first end time point at which the first foam removal logic has been executed based on the set process information being later than the second end time point expected based on the set process information, the controller is further configured to select the second foam removal logic.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to select the second foam removal logic, wherein, in response to the function module performing water supply after selection, the controller is further configured to control the fabric softener injection module to inject the fabric softener and operate the circulation pump of the function module.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein, The washing machine further includes a washing machine communicator configured to send operation information related to the execution of the foam removal logic to a server.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein, The washing machine communicator is configured to receive response information to the operation information from the server, wherein, in response to the response information indicating consent to inject the fabric softener during the execution of the foam removal logic, the controller is further configured to store the response information in a memory and increase the likelihood of selecting the second foam removal logic in the first foam removal logic or the second foam removal logic.

6. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein, The washing machine communicator is configured to receive response information to the operation information from the server, wherein, in response to the response information indicating disagreement to inject the fabric softener during the execution of the foam removal logic, the controller is further configured to store the response information in a memory and then select the first foam removal logic from the first foam removal logic and the second foam removal logic.

7. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein, The operation information includes at least one of the following items: during the execution of the foam removal function of the function module, the increased value of the current for rotating the washing tub, the number of occurrences of spin-drying delay or the vertical water level value, or the duration required for the execution of the foam removal function.

8. A method for reducing foam by injecting a fabric softener to remove foam, the method comprising the following steps: Performing a set process by a function module of a washing machine; Checking for foam generation during the operation of the function module by the controller of the washing machine, and the controller selecting a first foam removal logic or a second foam removal logic based on the amount of foam generated and the process information set in the function module; A first foam removal step, in which, in response to the selection of the first foam removal logic, the functional module performs foam removal via water supply and drainage; and A second foam removal step, in which, in response to the selection of the second foam removal logic, the functional module performs foam removal via water supply and drainage and the injection of the fabric softener.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein The step of selecting the first foam removal logic or the second foam removal logic includes the following steps: In response to the amount of the generated foam being greater than or equal to a reference value or the first end time point at which the first foam removal logic has been executed based on the set process information being later than the second end time point expected based on the set process information, the controller selects the second foam removal logic.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The second foam removal step includes the following steps: In response to the functional module performing water supply, the controller controls the fabric softener injection module of the functional module to inject the fabric softener, and the controller operates the circulation pump of the functional module.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein The method further includes the following step: The washing machine communicator of the washing machine sends operation information related to the execution of the foam removal logic to the server.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The method further includes the following step: The washing machine communicator receives response information to the operation information from the server; and In response to the response information indicating consent to inject the fabric softener during the execution of the foam removal logic, the controller stores the response information in the memory, and the controller increases the possibility of selecting the second foam removal logic in the first foam removal logic or the second foam removal logic.

13. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The method further includes the following step: The washing machine communicator receives response information to the operation information from the server, and wherein, in response to the response information indicating disagreement to inject the fabric softener during the execution of the foam removal logic, the controller stores the response information in the memory, and then the controller selects the first foam removal logic from the first foam removal logic and the second foam removal logic.

14. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The operation information includes at least one of the following items: During the execution of the foam removal function of the functional module, the increased value of the current for rotating the washing tub, the number of occurrences of spin-drying delay or the water level vertical height value, or the duration required for the execution of the foam removal function.

15. A washing machine, the washing machine being configured to provide guidance information on the detergent to reduce foam, the washing machine including: A functional module for performing each of the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying functions; A controller configured to: Check the foam generation situation during the operation process of the functional module; Execute the foam removal function of the functional module; Generate historical information on the execution of the foam removal function; and Store the historical information in the memory; and A washing machine communicator configured to send the historical information to the server under the control of the controller.

16. The washing machine according to claim 15, wherein, The washing machine communicator is configured to receive a guidance information display result from the server.

17. The washing machine according to claim 16, wherein, In response to the guidance information display result indicating that the guidance information is not displayed, the controller is further configured to control the interface of the washing machine to output a message including the guidance information or a warning message for excessive detergent injection.

18. The washing machine according to claim 16, wherein, The guidance information display result further includes an automatic detergent injection function setting instruction on the washing machine. Wherein, the controller is further configured to activate the automatic detergent injection function of the washing machine.

19. The washing machine according to claim 15, wherein, The historical information includes at least one of the following items: during the execution of the foam removal function of the function module, the increased value of the current used to rotate the washing tub, the number of occurrences of spin-drying delay, or the vertical water level value, or the duration required for the execution of the foam removal function.

20. The washing machine according to claim 15, wherein, In response to the user approaching the washing machine, the controller is further configured to control the interface of the washing machine to output a warning message for excessive detergent injection.

21. A method for providing guidance information on detergent to reduce foam, the method comprising the following steps: The controller of the washing machine checks the foam generation during the operation of the function module of the washing machine, and the controller executes the foam removal function of the function module based on the check result; The controller generates historical information on the execution of the foam removal function, and the controller stores the historical information in a memory; And The controller controls the washing machine communicator of the washing machine to send the historical information to a server.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein, The method further comprises the step of: the washing machine communicator receives a guidance information display result from the server.

23. The method according to claim 22, wherein The method further comprises the step of: in response to the guidance information display result indicating that the guidance information is not displayed, the controller controls the interface of the washing machine to output a message including the guidance information or a warning message for excessive detergent injection.

24. The method according to claim 22, wherein, The guidance information display result further includes an automatic detergent injection function setting instruction on the washing machine. Wherein, the method further comprises the step of: the controller activates the automatic detergent injection function of the washing machine.

25. The method according to claim 21, wherein The historical information includes at least one of the following items: during the execution of the foam removal function of the function module, the increased value of the current used to rotate the washing tub, the number of occurrences of spin-drying delay, or the vertical water level value, or the duration required for the execution of the foam removal function.

26. The method according to claim 21, wherein The method further comprises the step of: in response to the user approaching the washing machine, the controller controls the interface of the washing machine to output a warning message for excessive detergent injection.

27. A method for providing guidance information on detergent to reduce foam, the method comprising the following steps: The server communicator of the server receives historical information on the operation of the foam removal function from a washing machine; The server controller of the server generates guidance information based on the historical information; And The server controller of the server sends the generated guidance information to a user terminal linked to the washing machine.

28. The method according to claim 27, wherein, The method further comprises the step of: the server communicator receives a guidance information display result from the user terminal.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein, The guidance information display result further includes an automatic detergent injection setting instruction on the washing machine.

30. The method according to claim 28, wherein, The method further includes the following step: the server communicator sends the received guidance information display result to the washing machine.

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