Method for providing water consumption and washing machine according to method

Abstract

The invention provides a method for displaying washing information and a washing machine. The washing machine includes: a washing module; a water level sensor configured to detect a water level; a display; a memory storing one or more computer programs including computer executable instructions, and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the washing module, the water level sensor, the display, and the memory, the computer executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the washing machine to: control the washing module to introduce water into the washing machine based on user input to initiate washing; determining the amount of water introduced into the washing machine based on the water level frequency of the water level sensor; accumulating the determined amount of water as at least one cycle of washing proceeds; based on completion of washing, the accumulated amount of water is displayed on a display as the amount of water used during washing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine for providing washing information including water usage, a control method of the washing machine, and a computer-readable recording medium having stored therein a computer program for executing the control method of the washing machine. Background Art

[0002] The washing machine includes a tub for containing wash water and an inner drum rotatably installed in the tub and into which laundry is loaded, and when a circular pulsator installed in the inner drum rotates, the washing machine washes the laundry in the inner drum.

[0003] The washing machine includes a water level sensor for detecting the water level. When water is supplied to the tub, the pressure in the air hose connected to the water level sensor increases. Based on the increased pressure, the washing machine can detect the water level supplied to the tub. The washing machine can stop the water supply based on the detected water level.

[0004] The above information is presented as background information only to assist with understanding the present disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above information is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Technical Solution

[0006] An aspect of the present disclosure is to solve at least the above-mentioned problems and / or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Therefore, one aspect of the present disclosure is to provide a washing machine for providing washing information including water usage, a control method for the washing machine, and a computer-readable recording medium having stored therein a computer program for executing the control method for the washing machine.

[0007] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes: a washing module; a water level sensor configured to detect a water level; a display; a memory; and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the washing module, the water level sensor, the display, and the memory, wherein the memory stores one or more computer programs including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the washing machine to: control the washing module to introduce water into the washing machine based on user input for initiating washing; determine an amount of water introduced into the washing machine based on a water level frequency of the water level sensor; accumulate the determined amount of water as at least one washing cycle proceeds; and, upon completion of washing, display the accumulated amount of water on the display as water consumption during the washing period.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for displaying washing information is provided. The method includes: introducing water into a washing machine based on a user input for starting washing; determining an amount of water introduced into the washing machine based on a water level frequency of a water level sensor in the washing machine; accumulating the determined amount of water as at least one washing cycle progresses; and, upon completion of washing, displaying the accumulated amount of water as water consumption during the washing cycle.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, one or more non-transitory computer-readable recording media storing one or more computer programs including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause a washing machine to perform operations. The operations include: introducing water into the washing machine based on a user input for initiating washing; determining an amount of water introduced into the washing machine based on a water level frequency of a water level sensor in the washing machine; accumulating the determined amount of water as at least one washing cycle progresses; and displaying the accumulated amount of water as water used during washing upon completion of washing.

[0011] Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses various embodiments of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A method for displaying water consumption performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 is a flowchart of a method for displaying water consumption performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 A method for determining the amount of water filled in a washing machine based on a water level frequency performed by the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the water level frequency being a frequency of a water level sensor corresponding to a water level (hereinafter referred to as a water level frequency); Figure 5 is a flow chart of a method of determining the amount of water used in a cycle performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 6 A method for outputting water consumption performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 7 A method for outputting average water consumption performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 8A method for providing estimated water consumption, performed by a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 9 A method for displaying estimated water consumption, performed by a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 10 A method for displaying an estimated water consumption based on a washing method selected by a user, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown; Figure 11 is a method flow chart of a washing method for recommending water amount control performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 12 A method for recommending a washing method for controlling water consumption, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown; Figure 13 A method of providing a recommendation for a washing method for controlling water consumption and estimating water consumption, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown; Figure 14 A method for providing estimated water consumption by using a mobile device, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown; Figure 15 A method for recommending a washing method for controlling water consumption, performed by a mobile device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown; Figure 16 A method for displaying water consumption during washing via a mobile device, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown; Figure 17 A method for outputting a notification according to whether estimated water consumption exceeds a target water consumption, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown; Figure 18 A method for providing estimated water usage costs performed by a mobile device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 19a is a table showing a comparison between a water consumption calculated based on a material type of laundry and an actual water consumption according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 19b is a graph showing actual water usage and calculated water usage according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and Figure 20 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] The same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to denote the same elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of the various embodiments of the present disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in understanding, but these details are to be considered merely exemplary. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications may be made to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and structures may be omitted for clarity and brevity.

[0015] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the literal meanings, but are used by the inventors only to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the present disclosure is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0016] It is to be understood that the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a component surface" includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

[0017] Throughout the disclosure, the expression "at least one of a, b, or c" means only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or variations thereof.

[0018] Regarding the terms used herein, currently widely used general terms are selected by taking into account the functions in the present disclosure, but these terms may refer to various other terms according to the intention of ordinary technicians in the field, previous situations, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Therefore, the terms used herein should not be defined by their simple names, but should be defined based on the meaning of the terms together with the overall description of the present disclosure.

[0019] In addition, although the terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another element or component.

[0020] In addition, the terms used herein are only used to describe specific embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. In addition, throughout the specification, it should be understood that when a component is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or electrically coupled to the other component with one or more intermediate elements therebetween. In addition, throughout the specification, when a component "includes" or "comprising" an element, unless there is a specific description to the contrary, it should be understood that the component may also include other elements, without excluding other elements.

[0021] Expressions such as “in some embodiments of the present disclosure” or “in an embodiment of the present disclosure” described in various parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a washing machine for providing water consumption of the washing machine and a control method thereof.

[0023] Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a washing machine for providing an estimated water usage of the washing machine and a control method thereof.

[0024] Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a washing machine for controlling water usage of the washing machine and a control method thereof.

[0025] It should be understood that the blocks in each flowchart and the combination of the flowcharts can be performed by one or more computer programs comprising instructions. The entirety of one or more computer programs can be stored in a single memory, or one or more computer programs can be divided into different parts and stored in multiple different memories.

[0026] Any functions or operations described herein may be processed by a processor or a combination of processors. A processor or a combination of processors is a circuit that performs processing and includes circuits such as an application processor (AP, such as a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, such as a modem), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (such as an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a Wi-Fi chip, a Bluetooth chip, or a processor. ® ) chips, global positioning system (GPS) chips, near field communication (NFC) chips, connection chips, sensor controllers, touch controllers, fingerprint sensor controllers, display driver integrated circuits (ICs), audio CODEC chips, universal serial bus (USB) controllers, camera controllers, image processing ICs, microprocessor units (MPUs), systems on chip (SoCs), integrated circuits (ICs), etc.

[0027] Figure 1 A method of displaying water usage, performed by a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0028] Reference Figure 1 , the washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water introduced into the washing machine 1000 based on the sensor value of the water level sensor 1710 and display the determined amount of water as the water usage of the washing machine 1000 .

[0029] The washing machine 1000 includes a housing 10 forming an exterior, a tub 11 provided in the housing 10 to store supplied water, an inner drum 12 rotatably provided in the tub 11, and a pulsator 50 provided in the inner drum 12 to generate a water flow. A plurality of through holes may be provided on a side surface of the inner drum 12.

[0030] In addition, the washing machine 1000 may include a water supply pipe (not shown) for supplying wash water to the tub 11, and the water supply pipe may include a water supply valve (not shown). The washing machine 1000 may control water supply by controlling the water supply valve.

[0031] Washing machine 1000 may store relationship information indicating the relationship between the water level frequency of water level sensor 1710 and the amount of water filled in tub 11. Washing machine 1000 may obtain the water level frequency value of water level sensor 1710 and determine the amount of water filled in washing machine 1000 based on the obtained water level frequency value and the relationship information.

[0032] In addition, washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water filled in washing machine 1000 by considering the amount of laundry (load). For example, washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water filled in washing machine 1000 by subtracting the amount of laundry from the amount of water calculated from the water level frequency.

[0033] In addition, when performing a rinsing cycle after dehydration, washing machine 1000 can determine the amount of water filled in washing machine 1000 by considering the amount of water remaining in the laundry and the amount of the laundry. For example, washing machine 1000 can determine the amount of water filled in washing machine 1000 by subtracting the amount of laundry and the amount of water remaining in the laundry from the amount of water calculated from the water level frequency.

[0034] In addition, the washing machine 1000 may drive the pulsator 50 in response to the water level in the washing machine 1000 reaching the target water level, and the water level in the tub 11 may decrease when part of the water is absorbed by the laundry due to the driving of the pulsator 50. The washing machine 1000 may determine the additional water supply amount based on the change in the water level frequency caused by the driving of the pulsator 50.

[0035] As the washing cycle, rinsing cycle and dehydration cycle proceed, the washing machine 1000 can calculate the amount of water filled in the washing machine 1000 and the amount of additional water supplied and accumulate the calculated water amounts. In addition, when washing is completed, the washing machine 1000 can display the accumulated water amount as the water usage during washing.

[0036] The washing machine 1000 may display at least one of daily average water consumption, weekly average water consumption, monthly average water consumption, or annual average water consumption based on water consumption during washing.

[0037] Washing machine 1000 may detect the amount of laundry, calculate an estimated amount of water usage based on the detected amount of laundry, and display the calculated estimated amount of water usage.

[0038] The washing machine 1000 may calculate an estimated amount of water usage based on a user input for changing a washing course or a user input for selecting a washing option, and display the calculated estimated amount of water usage.

[0039] In addition, the washing machine 1000 may calculate an estimated water usage based on a user input for changing a water level and a user input for adding a wash cycle or a rinse cycle, and display the calculated estimated water usage.

[0040] The washing machine 1000 may recommend at least one of a washing course or a washing option based on receiving a user input for recommending a washing method for controlling water usage.

[0041] The washing machine 1000 may transmit information on water consumption during washing to the server 3000. Also, the mobile device 2000 may receive the information on water consumption from the server 3000 and display the received information on water consumption.

[0042] The mobile device 2000 may receive information on average water consumption per day, per week, per month, or per year from the server 3000 and display the information on the average water consumption.

[0043] Washing machine 1000 may transmit information about estimated water consumption to server 3000. Furthermore, mobile device 2000 may receive information about estimated water consumption from server 3000 and display the received information about estimated water consumption. Furthermore, mobile device 2000 may receive user input for changing a washing method and transmit the received information indicating the change in the washing method to washing machine 1000 via server 3000.

[0044] The mobile device 2000 may recommend at least one of a washing program or washing option based on a user input for receiving a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption. In addition, the mobile device 2000 may transmit information about the washing program or washing option selected by the user to the washing machine 1000 via the server 3000.

[0045] The mobile device 2000 may receive a user input for inputting a target water consumption per wash and transmit the received target water consumption per wash to the washing machine 1000 via the server 3000. Based on the estimated water consumption exceeding the target water consumption once, the washing machine 1000 may output a notification indicating that the estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption per wash.

[0046] Therefore, users can check the amount of water used during a wash cycle. In particular, in water-scarce countries where the daily water supply may be limited, users can infer the remaining available water by checking the amount of water used during a wash cycle. Furthermore, users can adjust the amount of water to be used during a wash cycle by checking the estimated water consumption.

[0047] In addition, washing machine 1000 can not only calculate the amount of water filled in washing machine 1000 based on the water level frequency of water level sensor 1710, but also calculate more accurate water usage by considering the amount of laundry, the amount of remaining moisture in the laundry after dehydration, and the amount of water absorbed by the laundry.

[0048] The washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water supplied to the washing machine 1000 based on the duration of the water supply.

[0049] For example, the washing machine 1000 may store information about the water supply amount of the water supply valve per unit time (e.g., 12 liters per minute (LPM)). In addition, the washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water supplied to the washing machine 1000 by multiplying the time period during which the water supply valve supplies water by the water supply amount of the water supply valve per unit time.

[0050] In addition to the main water supply, washing machine 1000 may also include a shower spray device configured to spray water onto the laundry during the rinse cycle. In this case, the water supply valve of washing machine 1000 may be connected not only to the main water supply but also to the shower spray device. Depending on the set washing method, washing machine 1000 may be supplied with water only through the main water supply, only through the shower spray device, or through both the main water supply and the shower spray device.

[0051] In addition, the washing machine 1000 may store information about the water supply amount per unit time of the main water supply device (eg, 12 LPM) and information about the spray water supply amount per unit time of the spray spray device (eg, 6 LPM).

[0052] When washing machine 1000 is supplied with water only via the main water supply device, washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water supplied to washing machine 1000 by multiplying the amount of water supplied per unit time by the main water supply device by the duration of water supply.

[0053] When washing machine 1000 supplies water only via the spraying spray device, washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water supplied to washing machine 1000 by multiplying the amount of water supplied by the spraying spray device per unit time by the duration of water supply.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in addition to the main water supply device and the spray spray device, the washing machine 1000 may further include a softener water supply device that supplies water to the fabric softener dispensing box. The washing machine 1000 may store information about the amount of water supplied per unit time by the softener water supply device (e.g., 5.5 LPM).

[0055] When the washing machine 1000 is supplied with water only via the softener water supply device, the washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water supplied to the washing machine 1000 by multiplying the amount of water supplied per unit time by the softener water supply device by the duration of the water supply.

[0056] The washing machine 1000 may obtain a pre-stored constant value as the amount of water supplied. For example, when the amount of water supplied to the washing machine 1000 per unit time and the water supply duration are fixed, the washing machine 1000 may multiply the amount of water supplied to the washing machine 1000 per unit time by the pre-stored water supply duration as the supplied water amount.

[0057] The washing machine 1000 can store the usage time of the main water supply device, the spray spray device, and the softener water supply device according to the selected washing option or washing program. For example, when the super fast wash option is selected, the washing machine 1000 can be programmed to supply water via the spray spray device for a time of "a" and via the softener water supply device for a time of "b" during the rinse cycle. Therefore, the washing machine 1000 can store therein a constant value c (for example, c = the amount of water sprayed per unit time by the spray spray device). Duration "a" + water supply per unit time of softener water supply equipment Therefore, when the super-fast wash option is selected, the washing machine 1000 can obtain a constant value c as the amount of water used during the rinsing cycle.

[0058] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Reference Figure 2 , the washing machine 1000 may include a processor 1100 , a memory 1400 , a display 1610 , a washing module 1800 , and a water level sensor 1710 .

[0060] The processor 1100 may generally control all operations of the washing machine 1000. The processor 1100 may execute a program stored in the memory 1400 to control the washing module 1800, the water level sensor 1710, and the display 1610.

[0061] The memory 1400 stores various information, data, instructions, programs, etc. required for the operation of the washing machine 1000. For example, the memory 1400 may store relationship information indicating the relationship between the water level frequency and the amount of water filled in the tub 11. In addition, the memory 1400 may store the water level of the water filled in the tub 11, which corresponds to the water level frequency of the water level sensor 1710. The memory 1400 may include at least one of a volatile memory and a non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof.

[0062] The washing module 1800 may include a rotating motor (not shown) that rotates the inner tub 12 and the pulsator 50. In addition, the washing module 1800 may include a water supply valve (not shown) and a drain valve (not shown).

[0063] The processor 1100 may control the washing module 1800 to perform a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and a dehydration cycle. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 1100 may further perform a drying cycle in addition to the washing cycle, the rinsing cycle, and the dehydration cycle.

[0064] The washing cycle is a cycle in which water supplied via the water supply valve flows into the tub 11 through the detergent supply device containing laundry detergent, and then the inner drum 12 rotates to remove stains from the laundry; the washing cycle can be performed in the order of water supply, washing, draining and normal dehydration.

[0065] The rinse cycle is a cycle in which water supplied via the water supply valve flows into the tub 11 without passing through the laundry detergent supply device, or in the case of the final rinse cycle, water supplied via the water supply valve flows into the tub 11 through the fabric softener dispenser containing fabric softener, and then the inner drum 12 rotates to remove the detergent remaining in the laundry; the rinse cycle can be performed in the order of water supply, rinsing, draining, and normal spin-drying, or in the order of water supply and rinsing. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the rinse cycle can be repeated two or more times.

[0066] The dehydration cycle is a cycle in which water is separated from the laundry by rotating the inner drum 12 at a high speed; the dehydration cycle may be performed in the order of draining and strong dehydration.

[0067] Water level sensor 1710 is a sensor that outputs pressure changes within an air hose connected to water level sensor 1710. The air hose connected to water level sensor 1710 is provided within tub 11. As the amount of water supplied to tub 11 increases, the pressure within the air hose may increase, and as the pressure increases, the water level frequency of water level sensor 1710 may decrease.

[0068] Memory 1400 may store the water level of water filled in tub 11 corresponding to the water level frequency of water level sensor 1710. Therefore, in response to the water level frequency of water level sensor 1710 reaching the water level frequency corresponding to the set target water level, processor 1100 may close the water supply valve to stop supplying water to tub 11.

[0069] The display 1610 may output image data, which has been image-processed by an image processor (not shown), via a display panel (not shown) under the control of the processor 1100. The display panel may include at least one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor LCD (TFT-LCD), an organic light emitting diode display (OLED), a flexible display, a three-dimensional (3D) display, or an electrophoretic display.

[0070] The processor 1100 may receive a user input for starting washing via an input interface (not shown).The processor 1100 may control the washing module 1800 to introduce water into the tub 11 of the washing machine 1000 based on the user input for starting washing.

[0071] Processor 1100 may determine the amount of water introduced into tub 11 based on the water level frequency value of water level sensor 1710. For example, processor 1100 may determine the amount of water filled in tub 11 based on the water level frequency value of water level sensor 1710 and relationship information indicating the relationship between the water level frequency and the amount of water filled in tub 11.

[0072] As at least one cycle of washing proceeds, the processor 1100 may accumulate the determined amount of water. For example, the processor 1100 may add the amount of water used in the rinse cycle to the amount of water used during the wash cycle.

[0073] Upon completion of washing, the processor 1100 may display the accumulated amount of water on the display 1610 as the amount of water used during washing.

[0074] Figure 3 is a flowchart of a method for displaying water usage, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] In operation S310 , the washing machine 1000 may introduce water into the washing machine 1000 based on a user input for starting washing.

[0076] Before receiving the user input for starting washing, washing machine 1000 can receive the user input for setting washing program or washing option.In addition, before receiving the user input for starting washing, washing machine 1000 can receive the user input for adding rinsing cycle or setting water level.

[0077] Washing machine 1000 may introduce water into washing machine 1000 until it reaches a target water level based on a user input for starting washing. Before receiving the user input for starting washing, washing machine 1000 may receive a user input for setting the target water level. Furthermore, if the user has not set the target water level, washing machine 1000 may control the pulsator to detect the weight of the laundry and determine the target water level corresponding to the detected weight.

[0078] In response to the water level frequency of the water level sensor reaching a water level frequency corresponding to the set target water level, the washing machine 1000 may stop supplying water.

[0079] In operation S320, the washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water introduced into the washing machine 1000 based on the water level frequency of the water level sensor.

[0080] In response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, washing machine 1000 may determine a main fill water amount based on the detected water level frequency and the weight of the laundry. For example, in response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, washing machine 1000 may determine the main fill water amount for the wash cycle by subtracting the volume of laundry corresponding to the weight of the laundry from the volume of water corresponding to the detected water level frequency. Alternatively, for example, in response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, washing machine 1000 may determine the main fill water amount for the rinse cycle by subtracting the volume of laundry corresponding to the weight of the laundry and the amount of residual moisture in the laundry corresponding to the weight of the laundry from the volume of water corresponding to the detected water level frequency. Main fill may refer to the process of filling washing machine 1000 with water to the target water level after dehydration.

[0081] The washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of refill water added to the washing machine 1000 based on the change in the water level frequency caused by the driving of the pulsator. For example, the washing machine 1000 may determine the refill water amount by subtracting the amount of water corresponding to the refill start water level frequency from the amount of water corresponding to the main fill end water level frequency.

[0082] The washing machine 1000 may determine the sum of the refill water amount and the main fill water amount as the amount of water used during one cycle.

[0083] In operation S330, the washing machine 1000 may accumulate the determined amount of water as at least one cycle of washing proceeds.

[0084] The at least one cycle of washing may include at least one washing cycle and at least one rinsing cycle. In addition, the at least one cycle of washing may include only a washing cycle. In addition, the at least one cycle of washing may include only a rinsing cycle.

[0085] Washing machine 1000 may receive user input for setting a washing program, user input for setting a washing option, or user input for adding a rinsing cycle. Washing machine 1000 may determine the number of washing cycles and the number of rinsing cycles based on the set washing program, the set washing option, and whether to add rinsing.

[0086] The washing machine 1000 may determine the sum of the amount of water used during at least one rinsing cycle and the amount of water used during the washing cycle as the amount of water used during washing.

[0087] In operation S340, upon completion of washing, the washing machine 1000 may display the accumulated amount of water as the amount of water used during washing.

[0088] In addition, washing machine 1000 can calculate the average water consumption of washing machine 1000 within a predetermined time period based on the water consumption during the wash cycle, and display the calculated average water consumption. For example, washing machine 1000 can calculate the average water consumption for a predetermined time period based on water consumption data for the predetermined time period. For example, washing machine 1000 can calculate the average water consumption per wash cycle based on water consumption data for a week. Also, for example, washing machine 1000 can calculate the average daily water consumption based on water consumption data for a week. The predetermined time period can be, but is not limited to, a day, a week, a month, or a year.

[0089] Washing machine 1000 can display estimated water consumption. For example, washing machine 1000 can drive a pulsator to detect the weight of the laundry in washing machine 1000, calculate an estimated water consumption based on the detected weight of the laundry and the set washing method, and display the calculated estimated water consumption.

[0090] Upon receiving a user input for changing the washing method, the washing machine 1000 may recalculate the estimated water usage based on the changed washing method and display the recalculated estimated water usage.

[0091] The washing machine 1000 may recommend at least one of a washing course or a washing option based on a user input for receiving a washing method recommendation for controlling water usage.

[0092] The washing machine 1000 may receive the target water consumption from the server 3000 and, based on the estimated water consumption exceeding the target water consumption, output a notification indicating that the estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption.

[0093] Figure 4 A method of determining the amount of water filled in the washing machine based on a water level frequency, performed by the washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated.

[0094] Reference Figure 4, the washing machine 1000 may calculate the amount of water filled in the tub 11 based on the water level frequency of the water level sensor 1710 .

[0095] Reference Figure 4 1410, for each model of the washing machine 1000, water level frequency data corresponding to the volume of water supplied to the tub 11 can be obtained through experiments. For example, when the amount of water filled in the tub 11 is 10 L, the water level frequency of the water level sensor 1710 may be 24621 Hz.

[0096] In addition, refer to Figure 4 The relationship graph 420 showing the relationship between the water level frequency and the water supply volume (water volume) may obtain relationship information indicating the relationship between the water level frequency and the water supply volume from the water level frequency data corresponding to the water supply volume in the table 1410 .

[0097] For example, Figure 4 As shown in the relationship diagram 420, relationship information can be obtained, which indicates that the volume of water supply (y) can be expressed as A Water level frequency (x) + B.

[0098] In this case, A and B are constant values ​​and may be determined through experiments according to the platform or model of the washing machine 1000. For example, A may be -0.021 and B may be 524.9.

[0099] In addition, the obtained relationship information may be stored in the washing machine 1000 .

[0100] Therefore, the washing machine 1000 may calculate the volume of water filled in the tub 11 based on the water level frequency and the relationship information.

[0101] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method of determining the amount of water used in one cycle, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0102] In operation S510 , when a cycle starts, the washing machine 1000 may introduce water into the washing machine 1000 .

[0103] After the washing program is set as a default standard washing program or is set by a user, the washing machine 1000 may perform at least one cycle according to the washing program based on receiving a user input for pressing a start button.

[0104] When a wash cycle or a rinse cycle is started, the washing machine 1000 may open a water supply valve to perform a main fill for filling the washing machine 1000 with water up to a target water level. The main fill may refer to initially supplying water to the tub 11 after starting washing or immediately after spinning. The washing machine 1000 may supply water to the target water level during the main fill.

[0105] Before water is initially supplied to the washing machine 1000 after a washing process is started, the washing machine 1000 may drive the pulsator to detect the weight of the laundry and determine a target water level based on the detected weight of the laundry.

[0106] Washing machine 1000 can receive the user input for setting the target water level.In this case as well, before water is initially supplied to washing machine 1000 after the washing program is started, washing machine 1000 can drive the pulsator to detect the weight of the laundry.

[0107] When receiving a user input for setting a target water level, the washing machine 1000 may not drive the pulsator to detect the weight of the laundry, but may determine a pre-stored weight corresponding to the set target water level as the laundry amount.

[0108] In operation S520, in response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, the washing machine 1000 may determine a main filling water amount based on the detected water level frequency and the amount of laundry.

[0109] Washing machine 1000 may determine that the water level in washing machine 1000 has reached the target water level based on the water level frequency of the water level sensor reaching the target water level. Based on determining that the water level in washing machine 1000 has reached the target water level, washing machine 1000 may close the water supply valve to stop water supply.

[0110] In addition, washing machine 1000 can determine the volume of the laundry based on the weight of the laundry. For example, washing machine 1000 can convert the volume occupied by 1 kg of laundry into 1 L.

[0111] Based on the determination that the water level in the washing machine 1000 has reached the target water level, the washing machine 1000 may transfer the amount of water corresponding to the water level frequency (A The result obtained by subtracting the determined amount of laundry from the water level frequency + B) is determined as the main fill water amount for the ongoing cycle, as shown in Equation 1 below.

[0112] Main filling water volume = A Water level frequency + B-washing amount

[0113] ...Equation 1

[0114] For example, when A is -0.021, B is 524.9, the water level frequency is 22845 Hz, and the laundry load is 5 kg, washing machine 1000 can calculate the water volume corresponding to the water level frequency as 45 L and the volume of the laundry as 5 L, thereby determining the main filling water volume as 40 L.

[0115] The washing machine 1000 may accurately calculate the amount of water filled in the tub by considering the amount of laundry and the amount of water corresponding to the water level frequency.

[0116] Furthermore, even if the user sets a target water level, washing machine 1000 can detect the amount of laundry and determine the main fill water amount by taking the detected amount of laundry into account, thereby accurately calculating the amount of water filled in the tub. For example, if the laundry weighs 1 kg, the user selects a target water level of 10, and a pre-stored value of 10 L corresponding to the target water level of 10 is determined as the amount of water used for washing, the difference between the main fill water amount calculated using equation 1 above and the actual main fill water amount may be significant. Even when detecting the actual amount of laundry with the user setting a target water level, washing machine 1000 can calculate a more accurate main fill water amount by excluding only the 1 L amount of laundry.

[0117] When the ongoing cycle is a washing cycle, the washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water calculated by using Equation 1 as a main filling water amount for the washing cycle.

[0118] When the cycle being performed is a rinsing cycle, the washing machine 1000 may change the water level from the frequency corresponding to the water level (A The result obtained by subtracting the detected amount of laundry and the amount of remaining moisture in the laundry from the amount of water at the water level frequency + B) is determined as the main filling water amount for the rinse cycle.

[0119] Main filling water volume = A Water level frequency + B - (amount of laundry + amount of remaining water in the laundry) ... Equation 2

[0120] The washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of remaining moisture in the laundry based on the amount of the laundry.

[0121] Washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water remaining in the laundry to be equal to the amount of laundry. For example, when the weight of the laundry is 5 kg, washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water remaining in the laundry after dehydration to be 5 kg or 5 L.

[0122] Therefore, when the water level frequency is 21739 Hz and the amount of laundry is 7 kg in the rinse cycle, the washing machine 1000 can calculate the water amount corresponding to the water level frequency as 70 L, calculate the volume of laundry as 7 L, and calculate the remaining water as 7 L, thereby determining that the main filling water amount during the rinse cycle is 56 L.

[0123] Washing machine 1000 may store information about the relationship between the amount of remaining water and the amount of laundry and the rotation speed and rotation time during dehydration. Therefore, washing machine 1000 may calculate the amount of remaining water based on the amount of laundry and the rotation speed and rotation time during dehydration according to the relationship information.

[0124] In operation S530, the washing machine 1000 may drive the pulsator of the washing module.

[0125] In response to determining that the washing machine 1000 is filled with water to reach a target water level during a washing cycle or a rinsing cycle, the washing machine 1000 may rotate the pulsator and the inner drum a predetermined number of times to allow the laundry to sufficiently absorb water.

[0126] In operation S540, the washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of refill water replenished into the washing machine 1000 based on the change in the frequency of the water level caused by the driving of the pulsator.

[0127] In addition to a main filling process for filling the washing machine 1000 with water to a target water level during a washing cycle or a rinsing cycle, the washing machine 1000 may further perform a refilling process for replenishing the amount of water absorbed by the laundry after the main filling process.

[0128] The washing machine 1000 may drive the pulsator so that water is sufficiently absorbed into the laundry, and as the water is absorbed into the laundry, the water level may decrease.

[0129] The washing machine 1000 may determine a refill water amount as a result of subtracting a water amount corresponding to a refill start water level frequency from a water amount corresponding to a main fill end water level frequency, as shown in Equation 3 below.

[0130] Refill water volume = (A Main filling end water level frequency + B)-(A Refill start water level frequency + B) ...Equation 3

[0131] The main filling end water level frequency may be the water level frequency of the water level sensor after the water level of the washing machine 1000 reaches the target water level and the water supply valve is closed. In addition, the refilling start water level frequency may be the water level frequency of the water level sensor after the pulsator is driven a predetermined number of times.

[0132] In operation S550, the washing machine 1000 may determine the amount of water used during the cycle by adding the determined refill water amount to the determined main fill water amount.

[0133] For example, as the wash cycle progresses, the washing machine 1000 can determine the amount of water used during the wash cycle by adding the determined refill water amount for the wash cycle to the determined main fill water amount for the wash cycle. Additionally, for example, as the rinse cycle progresses, the washing machine 1000 can determine the amount of water used during the rinse cycle by adding the determined refill water amount for the rinse cycle to the determined main fill water amount for the rinse cycle.

[0134] The washing machine 1000 may calculate the amount of water used during washing by accumulating the amount of water used during the washing cycle and the amount of water used during the rinsing cycle, as shown in Equation 4 below.

[0135] Water usage (L) = Main fill water volume for wash cycle + Refill water volume for wash cycle + (Main fill water volume for rinse cycle + Refill water volume for rinse cycle) Rinse times... Equation 4

[0136] When there are two or more rinsing cycles, the washing machine 1000 may determine the water consumption of the entire rinsing cycle by adding the water consumption during the two or more rinsing cycles.

[0137] The washing machine 1000 can output the amount of water used in the washing process.

[0138] Figure 6 A method of outputting water usage performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0139] Reference Figure 6 , the washing machine 1000 may display information 610 on the amount of water used during washing on the display 1610 .

[0140] The washing machine 1000 may display information 610 about water usage when the washing process is completed. For example, the washing machine 1000 may display information 610 about water usage during washing based on completion of the final spin cycle.

[0141] Even after the washing process is completed, the washing machine 1000 may display information 610 on the amount of water used during washing for a predetermined time.

[0142] In addition, the washing machine 1000 may display information 610 about the amount of water used during washing at the end of the last rinsing cycle.

[0143] In addition, when a user input for opening the door of the washing machine 1000 is received after the washing process is completed, the washing machine 1000 may display information 610 on the amount of water used during washing.

[0144] Washing machine 1000 may display information 610 about water consumption on display 1610 that displays the scheduled time or the remaining time until the end of washing. In this case, washing machine 1000 may display the remaining time on display 1610 while washing is in progress, and after washing is completed, display information 610 about water consumption during washing on display 1610. Washing machine 1000 may turn on notification light 620 indicating that the number displayed on display 1610 is the water consumption.

[0145] In addition, the washing machine 1000 may display the reserved time or the remaining time until the end of washing on the display 1610 and display information 610 on the amount of water used during washing through a separate display (not shown).

[0146] Figure 7 A method of outputting an average water consumption performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0147] Reference Figure 7 , the washing machine 1000 may display the average daily water consumption on the display 1610 based on the water consumption data for one week or one month.

[0148] The washing machine 1000 may include an input interface for displaying water consumption. Figure 7 As shown, the washing machine 1000 may include a button 720 for displaying the amount of water used.

[0149] Based on receiving a user input for selecting the button 720 for displaying water usage, the washing machine 1000 may display information 710 regarding water usage during the last washing session.

[0150] Furthermore, upon receiving a user input for reselecting the button 720 for displaying water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may calculate an average daily water consumption for one week and display information on the calculated average daily water consumption.

[0151] Furthermore, upon receiving a user input for reselecting the button 720 for displaying water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may calculate an average daily water consumption for one month and display information on the calculated average daily water consumption.

[0152] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the washing machine 1000 may display the total weekly water consumption of the washing machine 1000 or the total monthly water consumption of the washing machine 1000 instead of the average water consumption.

[0153] Figure 8 A method of providing estimated water usage, performed by a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0154] In operation S810, the washing machine 1000 may receive a user input for starting washing.

[0155] When receiving a user input for turning on the power of washing machine 1000, washing machine 1000 may set the standard washing course as a default washing course as the washing course. After receiving a user input for turning on the power of washing machine 1000, washing machine 1000 may receive a user input for starting washing.

[0156] After receiving a user input for turning on the power of the washing machine 1000, the washing machine 1000 may receive a user input for selecting a washing method. The washing method may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a washing program, washing options, water level, or number of rinse cycles.

[0157] Washing programs include, but are not limited to, Standard Wash, Heavy Duty Wash, Ultra Clean Wash, Smalls / Quick Wash, Wool / Underwear Wash, Baby Wash, Bedding Wash, Rinse & Spin Wash, and Aqua Preserve Wash. Similar washing programs may have different names.

[0158] Each wash program can be associated with a specific number of wash cycles and rinse cycles. For example, a standard wash program can be associated with one wash cycle and two rinse cycles. Furthermore, for some wash programs, a target water level can be stored for each wash program. Furthermore, a water-retention wash program can be one that leaves the machine filled with water at the end without draining or spinning.

[0159] Washing options may include, but are not limited to, Eco Bubble and Super Speed.

[0160] The energy-saving bubble clean washing option is a washing option that cleans the laundry using bubbles, and can achieve savings in power consumption, water consumption, and time by using water at a lower level than that corresponding to the weight of the laundry.

[0161] The Super Fast wash option is a wash option that shortens wash time and offers savings in power consumption, water usage, and time.

[0162] After receiving the user input for selecting the washing method, the washing machine 1000 may receive a user input for starting washing.

[0163] The user input for starting washing may include, but is not limited to, a user input for pressing a “start” button.

[0164] In operation S820, the washing machine 1000 may detect the weight of the laundry by driving the pulsator.

[0165] Upon receiving a user input to start washing, washing machine 1000 can determine the weight of the laundry by rotating the pulsator and inner drum together. As the weight of the laundry increases, friction between the pulsator and inner drum and the laundry increases as the pulsator and inner drum rotate. Consequently, the current consumption of the rotary motor that rotates the pulsator and inner drum may increase. Therefore, washing machine 1000 can determine the weight of the laundry based on the current consumption of the rotary motor.

[0166] When a user input for selecting a water level is received before a user input for starting washing is received, the washing machine 1000 may skip operation S820 of determining the weight of the laundry by driving the pulsator.

[0167] Even when a user input for selecting a water level is received before a user input for starting washing is received, the washing machine 1000 may detect the weight of the laundry by driving the pulsator.

[0168] When a washing course that does not require an operation of calculating the weight of laundry by using a fixed water level is selected among a plurality of washing courses, the washing machine 1000 may omit operation S820 of determining the weight of laundry by driving the pulsator.

[0169] Even when a washing course that does not require an operation of calculating the weight of laundry by using a fixed water level is selected among a plurality of washing courses, the washing machine 1000 may detect the weight of laundry by driving the pulsator.

[0170] In operation S830, the washing machine 1000 may calculate an estimated water usage based on the detected laundry weight and the set washing method.

[0171] Washing machine 1000 can store the target water level corresponding to the weight of the laundry. For example, a target water level of 5 can be stored corresponding to a 5kg laundry weight. Therefore, washing machine 1000 can obtain the target water level corresponding to the determined laundry weight. For example, when the laundry weight is 5kg, washing machine 1000 can determine the target water level to be 5.

[0172] When receiving a user input for selecting a water level before receiving a user input for starting washing, washing machine 1000 may determine the selected water level as the target water level. For example, based on receiving a user input selecting 4 from water levels 1 to 5, washing machine 1000 may determine the target water level as 4.

[0173] In addition, the washing machine 1000 may store an estimated water consumption for a wash cycle and an estimated water consumption for a rinse cycle, each corresponding to a target water level. For example, corresponding to the target water level 5, 65 L may be stored as the estimated water consumption for the wash cycle, while 63 L may be stored as the estimated water consumption for the rinse cycle. Each of the estimated water consumption for the wash cycle and the estimated water consumption for the rinse cycle corresponding to the target water level may be determined experimentally.

[0174] The washing machine 1000 may calculate an estimated water usage based on a set washing method and a target water level.

[0175] For example, when the set washing program is a standard washing program, the standard washing program includes one washing cycle and two rinsing cycles, and the target water level corresponding to the detected laundry weight is 5, the washing machine 1000 can calculate 191L ​​as the estimated water consumption by adding 65L and 126L, 65L being the estimated water consumption of the washing cycle corresponding to the target water level 5, and 126L being twice the estimated water consumption of 63L of the rinsing cycle corresponding to the target water level 5.

[0176] In another example, when the set washing program is a standard washing program and the water level set by the user is 6, the washing machine 1000 can calculate 208L as the estimated water consumption by adding 72L and 136L, where 72L is the estimated water consumption of the washing cycle corresponding to the target water level 6, and 136L is twice the estimated water consumption of 68L of the rinsing cycle corresponding to the target water level 6.

[0177] In another example, when the set washing program is a standard washing program, the target water level corresponding to the detected laundry weight is 4, and the user adds a rinse cycle, the washing machine 1000 can calculate 214L as the estimated water consumption by adding 58L and 156L, 58L being the estimated water consumption of the washing cycle corresponding to the target water level 4, and 156L being three times the estimated water consumption of 52L of the rinse cycle corresponding to the target water level 4.

[0178] In another example, when the set washing program is the super clean washing program, which includes one washing cycle and three rinsing cycles, and the target water level is 8, the washing machine 1000 can calculate 332L as the estimated water consumption by adding 86L and 246L, where 86L is the estimated water consumption of the washing cycle corresponding to the target water level 8, and 246L is three times the estimated water consumption of 82L of the rinsing cycle corresponding to the target water level 8.

[0179] In another example, when the set washing option is energy-saving bubble clean, the target water level of energy-saving bubble clean is fixed at 3, and the energy-saving bubble clean program includes one washing cycle and two rinsing cycles, the washing machine 1000 can calculate 148L as the estimated water consumption by accumulating 52L and 96L, 52L is the estimated water consumption of the washing cycle corresponding to the target water level 3, and 96L is twice the estimated water consumption of 48L of the rinsing cycle corresponding to the target water level 3.

[0180] In operation S840, the washing machine 1000 may display the calculated estimated water usage.

[0181] In response to detecting the weight of the laundry by driving the pulsator, the washing machine 1000 may display an estimated amount of water usage after pausing before starting water supply.

[0182] In response to detecting the weight of the laundry by driving the pulsator, the washing machine 1000 may display an estimated amount of water usage when starting water supply.

[0183] When the standard washing program is set as the default washing program, before receiving the user input for starting washing, in response to receiving the user input for setting the water level, even if the user input for starting washing is not received, the washing machine 1000 can also calculate the estimated water usage and display the calculated estimated water usage.

[0184] Before receiving a user input for starting washing, in response to receiving a user input for selecting a washing program for an operation that does not require calculation of the weight of the laundry, the washing machine 1000 can calculate the estimated water usage and display the calculated estimated water usage even if the user input for starting washing is not received.

[0185] Based on receiving the user input for changing the washing method after calculating the weight of the laundry, washing machine 1000 can recalculate the estimated water consumption based on the changed washing method, and display the estimated water consumption recalculated. For example, after receiving the user input for starting washing and then calculating the weight of the laundry, washing machine 1000 may receive the user input for pausing washing. After pausing washing, washing machine 1000 may receive the user input for changing the washing program. Washing machine 1000 can recalculate the estimated water consumption based on the changed washing program and the laundry weight previously calculated. Washing machine 1000 can display the estimated water consumption recalculated.

[0186] Figure 9 A method of displaying estimated water usage, performed by a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0187] Reference Figure 9 , the washing machine 1000 may calculate an estimated water usage based on the washing method and the target water level, and display information 955 indicating the calculated estimated water usage.

[0188] For example, washing machine 1000 can receive user input by pressing power button 910. Based on receiving user input by pressing power button 910 of washing machine 1000, washing machine 1000 can turn on notification light source 920 to indicate that a standard washing program as a default washing program has been set among multiple washing programs. Based on receiving user input by pressing start button 930 for starting washing, washing machine 1000 can detect the weight of the laundry by driving a rotary motor (not shown) and obtain a target water level corresponding to the detected laundry weight. Washing machine 1000 can determine that the estimated water consumption is 278L based on the obtained target water level and the standard washing program, and display information 955 indicating the determined estimated water consumption.

[0189] The washing machine 1000 may display information 955 indicating an estimated amount of water used via the second display 1610b, which is separated from the first display 1610a, which displays the remaining time until the end of washing or the scheduled time.

[0190] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when washing machine 1000 includes only first display 1610a, washing machine 1000 may display the remaining time until the end of washing or the scheduled time, or information 955 indicating estimated water consumption, on first display 1610a. In this case, washing machine 1000 may turn on notification light 960 to indicate that the number displayed on first display 1610a is the estimated water consumption. Furthermore, washing machine 1000 may display information 955 indicating estimated water consumption on first display 1610a for only a predetermined period of time (e.g., 5 seconds), and then display the remaining time until the end of washing on first display 1610a.

[0191] Figure 10 A method of displaying an estimated water consumption based on a washing method selected by a user, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated.

[0192] Reference Figure 10 In response to receiving a user input for changing a washing method, the washing machine 1000 may calculate an estimated water usage based on the changed washing method and display information regarding the calculated estimated water usage.

[0193] After receiving a user input pressing the power button 910 of the washing machine 1000, the washing machine 1000 can receive a user input for selecting the super clean wash 927 by using the button 925 for changing the washing program. In addition, based on receiving a user input pressing the start button 930 for starting the washing, the washing machine 1000 can detect the weight of the laundry by driving a rotary motor (not shown) and obtain a target water level corresponding to the detected laundry weight. The washing machine 1000 can determine an estimated water consumption of 332 L based on the obtained target water level and the super clean wash program, and display information 955 about the determined estimated water consumption on the display 1610.

[0194] Furthermore, after receiving a user input of pressing the power button 910 of the washing machine 1000, the washing machine 1000 may receive a user input selecting a target water level of 5 by using the button 970 for selecting a water level. In response to receiving the user input selecting the target water level, the washing machine 1000 may not drive the spin motor, but instead calculate an estimated water consumption based on the standard wash course, which is the default wash course, and the selected target water level of 5. Furthermore, in response to receiving the user input selecting the target water level, the washing machine 1000 may display the calculated estimated water consumption.

[0195] Figure 11 4 is a flowchart of a method for recommending a washing method for controlling water consumption, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0196] In operation S1110 , the washing machine 1000 may receive a user input for receiving a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption.

[0197] The washing machine 1000 may include a washing method recommendation button for receiving a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption. The washing machine 1000 may receive a user input for selecting a washing method recommendation for reducing water consumption or a washing method recommendation for increasing water consumption through the washing method recommendation button.

[0198] Before receiving a user input for starting washing, the washing machine 1000 may receive a user input to receive a washing method recommendation for controlling water usage.

[0199] After detecting the weight of the laundry, the washing machine 1000 may receive a user input to receive a washing method recommendation for controlling water usage.

[0200] After displaying the estimated water usage, the washing machine 1000 may receive a user input to receive a washing method recommendation for controlling water usage.

[0201] In operation S1120, the washing machine 1000 may recommend at least one of a washing course or a washing option based on receiving a user input for receiving a recommendation for a washing method for controlling water usage.

[0202] Based on receiving a user input for selecting a washing method recommendation for reducing water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may display water conservation washing as a recommended washing course.

[0203] Based on receiving a user input for selecting a washing method recommendation associated with reducing water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may display an energy-saving bubble clean or super-fast wash washing option as a recommended washing option.

[0204] Based on receiving the user input for selecting the washing method recommendation associated with increasing water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may display Super Clean Wash as a recommended washing course.

[0205] After receiving a user input for receiving a recommendation for a washing method to control water usage, in response to receiving a user input for starting washing, the washing machine 1000 may detect the weight of the laundry and determine a recommended washing program or recommended washing options based on the detected laundry weight.

[0206] In response to determining the recommended washing course or the recommended washing option, the washing machine 1000 may start washing according to the determined recommended washing course or the recommended washing option.

[0207] In response to determining the recommended washing program or recommended washing options, the washing machine 1000 may pause washing and display the determined recommended washing program or recommended washing options. Thereafter, in response to receiving a user input for resuming washing, the washing machine 1000 may start washing according to the determined recommended washing program or recommended washing options.

[0208] In response to determining the recommended washing course or the recommended washing option, the washing machine 1000 may calculate an estimated amount of water usage based on the recommended washing course or the recommended washing option and display the calculated estimated amount of water usage.

[0209] Figure 12 A method of a washing method of recommended water amount control performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0210] Reference Figure 12 , the washing machine 1000 may recommend a washing course or washing options based on a user input for selecting a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption.

[0211] The washing machine 1000 may include a washing method recommendation button 980 for receiving a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption. The washing machine 1000 may receive a user input for selecting a washing method recommendation option 983 for reducing water consumption or a washing method recommendation option 985 for increasing water consumption via the washing method recommendation button 980.

[0212] Based on receiving the user input for selecting the washing method recommendation option 983 for reducing water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may recommend a pre-stored washing course or washing option corresponding to a reduction in water consumption.

[0213] Based on the user input for selecting the washing method recommendation option 983 for reducing water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may recommend water conservation washing as a washing method for reducing water consumption by selecting water conservation washing as a washing course and turning on the light source 991 indicating that water conservation washing is selected.

[0214] Based on the user input for selecting the recommended option 983 for a washing method that reduces water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may recommend energy-saving bubble clean or super-fast wash as a washing method that reduces water consumption by selecting energy-saving bubble clean or super-fast wash as a washing option and turning on the light source 995 indicating that energy-saving bubble clean is selected or the light source 997 indicating that super-fast wash is selected.

[0215] Based on receiving the user input for selecting the washing method recommendation option 985 for increasing water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may recommend a pre-stored washing course corresponding to the increased water consumption.

[0216] For example, based on user input for selecting the washing method recommendation option 985 for increasing water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may recommend super clean washing as a washing method for increasing water consumption by selecting super clean washing as a washing program and turning on the light source 993 indicating that super clean washing is selected.

[0217] Upon receiving a user input selecting the washing method recommendation button 980 for receiving a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may simultaneously recommend a washing course and washing options.

[0218] For example, based on the user input for selecting the washing method recommendation option 983 for reducing water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may select water conservation washing as a washing course and energy-saving bubble cleaning as a washing option.

[0219] Upon receiving a user input selecting the washing method recommendation button 980 to receive a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may recommend at least one of a washing program or washing options based on the weight of the laundry. To this end, the washing machine 1000 may store at least one of a washing program or washing options corresponding to the weight of the laundry.

[0220] For example, based on user input for selecting the washing method recommendation option 983 for reducing water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may select small / quick wash when the laundry weight is less than or equal to a threshold weight (e.g., 3 kg), and select water conservation wash when the laundry weight exceeds the threshold weight.

[0221] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, even when a user input of selecting the washing method recommendation button 980 to receive a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption is not received, but a target water consumption is set in the washing machine 1000, the washing machine 1000 can also recommend at least one of the washing programs or washing options based on the target water consumption.

[0222] The washing machine 1000 may receive a user input for inputting a target water consumption. In addition, the washing machine 1000 may receive the target water consumption from the server 3000.

[0223] When the estimated water consumption calculated according to the set washing course or washing option exceeds the target water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may recommend a washing course or washing option whose estimated water consumption does not exceed the target water consumption.

[0224] The washing machine 1000 may select a washing course or washing option based on receiving a user input for selecting the washing method recommendation option 983 for reducing water consumption, and may start washing according to the selected washing course or washing option even without receiving a separate user input.

[0225] Based on receiving user input for selecting the washing method recommendation option 983 for reducing water consumption, the washing machine can pause washing, select a washing program or washing option, display the selected washing program or washing option, and when receiving user input for starting washing again, start washing according to the selected washing program or washing option.

[0226] Figure 13 A method of providing a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption and estimating water consumption, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated.

[0227] Reference Figure 13 , the washing machine 1000 may provide a washing method for controlling water consumption and an estimated water consumption calculated based on the washing method.

[0228] Upon receiving a user input for selecting the washing method recommendation button 980 to receive a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may select at least one of a washing program or a washing option. In addition, the washing machine 1000 may calculate an estimated water consumption based on the selected washing program or washing option and display the calculated estimated water consumption.

[0229] For example, washing machine 1000 may calculate an estimated water consumption of 180 L based on a target water level of 4 and a standard wash program as a set wash program, and display information regarding the calculated estimated water consumption. Thereafter, upon receiving user input selecting wash method recommendation button 980, washing machine 1000 may pause washing, select energy-saving bubble clean, and turn on light source 995 indicating that energy-saving bubble clean has been selected. Furthermore, washing machine 1000 may change the target water level to 3 in response to selecting energy-saving bubble clean, and calculate an estimated water consumption of 160 L based on the target water level of 3 and the standard wash program. Furthermore, washing machine 1000 may display information 955 regarding the changed estimated water consumption on display 1610. Upon receiving user input selecting the start button, washing machine 1000 may perform washing according to the energy-saving bubble clean and standard wash programs.

[0230] Figure 14 A method of providing estimated water consumption by using a mobile device, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated.

[0231] Reference Figure 14 , the washing machine 1000 may transmit the information 1417 about the estimated water consumption to the mobile device 2000 via the server 3000. In addition, the mobile device 2000 may display the information 1417 about the estimated water consumption of the washing machine 1000 received from the server 3000.

[0232] Washing machine 1000 may transmit information about washing machine 1000 or information about laundry to server 3000 based on the user account. The information about washing machine 1000 may include information about a washing process. In response to receiving information from washing machine 1000, server 3000 may transmit the information received from washing machine 1000 to mobile device 2000 corresponding to the user account. Mobile device 2000 may display the information received from server 3000.

[0233] Mobile device 2000 can send control information about washing machine 1000 to server 3000 based on user account.Control information about washing machine 1000 can include but is not limited to washing program or washing option, number of cycles, selected water level, pause command, start command and laundry weight detection command selected by user.In response to receiving control information from mobile device 2000, server 3000 can send the control information received from mobile device 2000 to washing machine 1000 corresponding to user account.Washing machine 1000 can operate washing machine 1000 itself based on the control information received from server 3000.

[0234] The mobile device 2000 may display a user interface 1410 for setting a washing method.

[0235] The user interface 1410 for setting a washing method may include information 1411 about the set washing method, a user interface 1413 for selecting a washing program, a user interface 1414 for selecting a washing option, and a user interface 1415 for adding a cycle / changing a water level.

[0236] In addition, the user interface 1410 for setting a washing method may include a user interface 1412 for detecting the weight of laundry.

[0237] The mobile device 2000 may display information 1411 about the washing method set on the washing machine 1000. For example, the mobile device 2000 may display the set washing program, washing options, laundry weight, washing water level, number of cycles, estimated water usage, and estimated water usage fee.

[0238] Upon receiving a user input for selecting a wash start button 1416, the mobile device 2000 may transmit information 1411 about the wash method set via the mobile device 2000 and a wash start command to the washing machine 1000 via the server 3000. Based on the information about the wash method set via the mobile device 2000 and the wash start command received from the server 3000, the washing machine 1000 may drive the rotary motor to detect the weight of the laundry. In addition, the server 3000 may calculate an estimated water consumption based on the weight of the laundry and the set wash method, and transmit information 1417 about the calculated estimated water consumption to the mobile device 2000 via the server 3000. The mobile device 2000 may display the information 1417 about the estimated water consumption received from the server 3000.

[0239] Based on receiving a user input for selecting user interface 1412 for detecting the weight of the laundry, mobile device 2000 may transmit a laundry weight detection command to washing machine 1000 via server 3000. Washing machine 1000 may drive a rotation motor to detect the weight of the laundry based on the laundry weight detection command received from server 3000, and transmit information about the detected laundry weight to mobile device 2000 via server 3000. Mobile device 2000 may display the information about the laundry weight received from server 3000.

[0240] The mobile device 2000 may calculate an estimated water consumption based on the information about the laundry weight received from the server 3000 and display the calculated estimated water consumption. In addition, based on user input for changing a washing program, washing options, number of cycles, or water level, the mobile device 2000 may recalculate the estimated water consumption based on the changed washing program, washing options, number of cycles, or water level and display information 1417 about the calculated estimated water consumption.

[0241] Figure 15 A method for recommending a washing method for controlling water consumption, performed by a mobile device, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0242] Reference Figure 15 , the mobile device 2000 may display user interfaces 1421 and 1423 for receiving a recommendation of a washing method for controlling water consumption.

[0243] The user interfaces 1421 and 1423 for receiving a washing method recommendation for controlling water consumption may include an interface 1421 including a washing method recommendation option for reducing water consumption and an interface 1423 including a washing method recommendation option for increasing water consumption, respectively.

[0244] Based on receiving a user input for selecting the user interface 1421 including a washing method recommendation option for reducing water consumption, the mobile device 2000 may recommend a pre-stored washing course or washing option corresponding to water consumption reduction.

[0245] For example, upon receiving user input for selecting a wash method recommendation option that reduces water consumption, the mobile device 2000 may recommend the water-saving wash and the small-item quick wash by displaying them separately from other wash programs. Furthermore, the mobile device 2000 may receive user input for selecting the water-saving wash between the two.

[0246] Based on receiving a user input for selecting the user interface 1423 for selecting a washing method recommendation option including an increased water consumption, the mobile device 2000 may recommend a pre-stored washing course or washing option corresponding to an increased water consumption.

[0247] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, upon receiving a user input for selecting user interface 1421 or 1423 for receiving a recommendation for a washing method for controlling water consumption, the mobile device 2000 may recommend at least one of a washing program or washing options based on the weight of the laundry. To this end, the mobile device 2000 may store at least one of a washing program or washing options corresponding to the weight of the laundry.

[0248] Based on receiving user input for selecting user interface 1421 or 1423 for receiving a recommendation for a washing method for controlling water usage, the mobile device 2000 may request a washing program or washing option for controlling water usage from the server 3000 and recommend the washing program or washing option received from the server 3000 .

[0249] Upon receiving the user input for selecting the wash start button 1416 , the mobile device 2000 may transmit the selected wash course or wash option and a wash start command to the washing machine 1000 via the server 3000 .

[0250] The mobile device 2000 may display an estimated amount of water used calculated according to the selected washing course or washing option.

[0251] Figure 16 A method of displaying water usage during washing via a mobile device, performed by a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0252] Reference Figure 16 , based on the washing having been completed, the washing machine 1000 may transmit information indicating the completion of the washing and the amount of water used during the washing to the server 3000 .

[0253] Based on receiving a user input for selecting a menu to output a washing course, the mobile device 2000 may display information indicating completion of washing, a washing program used during washing, laundry weight, a washing water level, water usage 1431 during washing, and water usage charges during washing.

[0254] In addition, the mobile device 2000 may provide the average water consumption of the washing machine 1000. The server 3000 may calculate the average water consumption by accumulating the water consumption received from the washing machine 1000. For example, the server 3000 may calculate the average daily water consumption for a week, a month, or a year.

[0255] like Figure 16 As shown, upon receiving a user input for selecting button 1433 for displaying the average daily water consumption for a week, mobile device 2000 may request information about the average daily water consumption for a week from server 3000. In response to receiving the information about the average daily water consumption for a week from server 3000, mobile device 2000 may display the average daily water consumption for a week 1437 and a graph 1435 representing the water consumption for a week based on the received information.

[0256] In addition, the mobile device 2000 may display the average daily water consumption for one month or the average daily water consumption for one year.

[0257] Additionally, the mobile device 2000 may display the total water usage for a week, a month, or a year.

[0258] Figure 17 A method of outputting a notification according to whether an estimated water consumption exceeds a target water consumption, performed by a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is illustrated.

[0259] Reference Figure 17, the washing machine 1000 may receive the target water consumption set by the user from the mobile device 2000 via the server 3000. In addition, based on the estimated water consumption exceeding the target water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may output a notification indicating that the estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption.

[0260] The mobile device 2000 may provide a user interface 1451 for setting a target water consumption for each wash cycle. Upon receiving a user input for setting the target water consumption via the user interface 1451, the mobile device 2000 may transmit the target water consumption for each wash cycle to the washing machine 1000 via the server 3000.

[0261] The user interface 1451 for setting the target water consumption may include a user interface 1453 for selecting whether to pause washing when the estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption. The mobile device 2000 may transmit information on whether to pause washing when the estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption to the washing machine via the server 3000.

[0262] The server 3000 may receive information about the amount of water available to the user from a separate water management server (not shown). In addition, the server 3000 may determine the amount of water available to the user received from the water management server (not shown) as a target water consumption.

[0263] Based on the target water consumption received from the server 3000, the washing machine 1000 may store the received target water consumption. Furthermore, in response to calculating the estimated water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may determine whether the calculated estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption. Based on the calculated estimated water consumption exceeding the target water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may output a notification indicating that the calculated estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption.

[0264] For example, the washing machine 1000 may output a voice or notification sound indicating that the calculated estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption. In addition, when a command to pause washing is received from the server 3000 when the estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption, the washing machine 1000 may pause washing and output a voice or notification sound indicating that the calculated estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption.

[0265] In water-scarce countries, daily water supplies may be limited. By setting a target water usage, users can manage water usage so that water usage during washing does not exceed the target amount.

[0266] Figure 18 A method for providing estimated water usage costs performed by a mobile device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0267] Reference Figure 18, the mobile device 2000 can provide an estimated water cost corresponding to the estimated water usage. In addition, the mobile device 2000 can provide an estimated water cost corresponding to the water usage during washing.

[0268] The server 3000 may request information about the user's water fee from the water fee server 4000 based on the user's water account information. To this end, the mobile device 2000 may provide a user interface for storing the user's water account information on the server 3000.

[0269] Upon receiving the user input for inputting the user's water account information, the mobile device 2000 may transmit the user's water account information input via the user interface to the server 3000 so as to store the user's water account information on the server 3000. The server 3000 may store the received user's water account information in correspondence with the user account.

[0270] Upon receiving the user input for inputting the user identification information stored in the water rate server 4000, the mobile device 2000 may transmit the input user identification information to the server 3000. The server 3000 may request the water rate server 4000 for the user's water account information based on the user identification information, and store the user's water account information received from the water rate server 4000 in correspondence with the user account.

[0271] Based on the water account information received from the server 3000, the water fee server 4000 may transmit information about the water fee corresponding to the water account information to the server 3000. The information about the water fee may include, but is not limited to, information about water consumption, information about the water fee to be paid, and information about the water fee per unit of water consumption.

[0272] The mobile device 2000 may calculate an estimated water usage fee corresponding to the estimated water usage based on the estimated water usage and information about the water fee per unit water usage.

[0273] In addition, the mobile device 2000 may calculate an estimated water fee corresponding to the water consumption during washing based on the water consumption during washing and information about the water fee per unit water consumption.

[0274] The mobile device 2000 may display an estimated water cost 1461 corresponding to the amount of water used during washing.

[0275] In addition, the mobile device 2000 may display information 1463 regarding the water fee to be paid.

[0276] Figure 19a is a table showing a comparison between a water consumption calculated based on a laundry material type and an actual water consumption according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 19bis a graph illustrating actual water usage and calculated water usage according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0277] Reference Figure 19a , table 1900 shows actual water usage and water usage 1936 calculated by the washing machine 1000 when washing towels made of a material with high water absorption and synthetic fabrics made of a material with low water absorption according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0278] The washing machine 1000 may supply water up to a water level 1930 corresponding to the weight 1931 of the towels and detect a main filling end water level frequency 1932 of the washing cycle, a refilling start water level frequency 1933 of the washing cycle, and a main filling end water level frequency 1934 of the rinsing cycle.

[0279] The washing machine 1000 can calculate the main filling water volume 1941 of the washing cycle based on the weight of the towels 1931 and the main filling end water level frequency 1932 of the washing cycle. The washing machine 1000 can calculate the refill water volume 1942 of the washing cycle based on the main filling end water level frequency 1932 of the washing cycle and the refill start water level frequency 1933 of the washing cycle. The washing machine 1000 can calculate the main filling water volume 1941 of the rinsing cycle based on the weight of the towels 1931 and the main filling end water level frequency 1934 of the rinsing cycle.

[0280] Washing machine 1000 may determine the sum of a main filling water amount 1941 of the washing cycle and a refilling water amount 1942 of the washing cycle as a water amount 1943 during the washing cycle. Furthermore, washing machine 1000 may determine a main filling water amount 1951 of the rinsing cycle as a water amount 1952 during the rinsing cycle. In the embodiment of the present disclosure shown in Table 1, refilling water for the rinsing cycle is not supplied, but when refilling water for the rinsing cycle is supplied, the water amount during the rinsing cycle may be calculated by taking the refilling water of the rinsing cycle into account.

[0281] In addition, the washing machine 1000 may calculate the water consumption 1961 during the washing cycle by adding the water consumption 1943 during the washing cycle and the water consumption 1952 during the rinsing cycle.

[0282] To detect actual water usage 1935, the amount of water supplied to washing machine 1000 while washing towels can be detected. For example, the amount of water supplied to washing machine 1000 can be measured by a flow meter provided in a supply valve of washing machine 1000. For example, the actual main fill water amount 1921 supplied during a wash cycle, the actual refill water amount 1922 supplied during a wash cycle, and the actual main fill water amount 1924 supplied during a rinse cycle can be measured. Therefore, by adding the actual main fill water amount 1921 supplied during a wash cycle and the actual refill water amount 1922 supplied during a wash cycle, the actual water amount 1923 supplied during a wash cycle can be calculated. Furthermore, when refill water is not supplied during a rinse cycle, the actual main fill water amount 1924 supplied during a rinse cycle can be the actual water amount supplied during the rinse cycle.

[0283] By comparing the water usage 1961 calculated by the washing machine 1000 with the actual water amount 1925 supplied to the washing machine 1000, it can be seen from Table 1 that even when washing towels with high water absorption, the water usage 1961 calculated by the washing machine 1000 is approximately 1.03 times the actual water amount 1925 supplied.

[0284] It can also be seen from Table 1 that, in the case of synthetic fabrics having low water absorption, the amount of water used 1961 calculated by the washing machine 1000 is about 1.005 times the actual amount of water supplied 1925 .

[0285] Figure 19b is a graph showing the calculated water usage 1961 and the actual water volume 1925 supplied as shown in Table 1.

[0286] For synthetic fabrics with low water absorption, the calculated water usage is almost the same as the actual amount of water supplied, as shown in Graph 1973. Furthermore, for towels with high water absorption, and even for towels, as shown in Graph 1971, the calculated water usage is slightly different from the actual amount of water supplied.

[0287] Therefore, even when the washing machine 1000 is not equipped with a flow meter or a separate sensor, the washing machine 1000 can accurately calculate the amount of water supplied to the washing machine by using only the water level sensor.

[0288] Figure 20 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0289] Reference Figure 20 , the washing machine 1000 may include a processor 1100 , a microphone 1200 , a communication module 1300 , a memory 1400 , an input interface 1500 , an output interface 1600 , a sensor 1700 , and a washing module 1800 .

[0290] However, it is not Figure 20 All components shown are essential components of the washing machine 1000. The washing machine 1000 can be Figure 20 For example, the washing machine 1000 may be implemented with a processor 1100 , a memory 1400 , an output interface 1600 , a washing module 1800 , and a sensor 1700 .

[0291] The same reference numerals are assigned to Figure 2 Same components as shown.

[0292] The washing machine 1000 can perform washing, rinsing, dehydration and drying cycles. The washing machine 1000 is an example of a laundry treatment device, and the concept of a laundry treatment device encompasses devices for washing laundry (items to be washed and items to be dried), devices for drying laundry, and devices capable of both washing and drying laundry.

[0293] The washing machines 1000 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a top-loading washing machine 1000 having a laundry inlet facing upward for loading or unloading laundry, or a front-loading washing machine 1000 having a laundry inlet facing forward. The washing machines 1000 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include washing machines 1000 having other loading types in addition to the top-loading washing machine 1000 and the front-loading washing machine 1000.

[0294] For the top-loading washing machine 1000, the water flow generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator can be used to wash the laundry. In the case of the front-loading washing machine 1000, the laundry can be washed by rotating the inner drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. The front-loading washing machine 1000 may include a combined drying washing machine 1000 capable of drying the laundry contained in the inner drum. The combined drying washing machine 1000 may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air to the inner drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the inner drum. For example, the combined drying washing machine 1000 may include a heat pump device. The washing machine 1000 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a washing machine 1000 using other washing methods other than the above-mentioned method.

[0295] The washing machine 1000 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a housing for accommodating various components therein, and the housing may be provided in a box shape having a laundry inlet formed at one side.

[0296] Washing machine 1000 may include a door for opening and closing a laundry inlet. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing via a hinge member. At least a portion of the door may be provided as transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing is visible.

[0297] Washing machine 1000 may include a tub provided in a housing to store water. The tub may be provided in a generally cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be provided inside the housing so that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet.

[0298] The tub can be connected to the housing via a shock absorber that absorbs vibrations generated during the rotation of the inner tub and attenuates the vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0299] The washing machine 1000 may include an inner tub configured to accommodate laundry.

[0300] The inner drum can be arranged in the barrel so that the inner drum opening arranged on one side corresponds to the washing inlet and the barrel opening. Washings can pass through the washing inlet, the barrel opening and the inner drum opening in sequence to be received in the inner drum or taken out from the inner drum.

[0301] The inner drum can rotate in the tub to perform operations corresponding to the washing, rinsing and / or dehydration cycles, respectively. The cylindrical wall of the inner drum is formed with a plurality of through holes that allow water stored in the tub to flow into or out of the inner drum.

[0302] The processor 1100 controls all operations of the washing machine 1000. The processor 1100 may execute a program stored in the memory 1400 to control components of the washing machine 1000.

[0303] The processor 1100 may include a separate neural processing unit (NPU) that performs operations of the machine learning model. In addition, the processor 1100 may include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), etc.

[0304] Memory 1400 stores various information, data, commands, programs, and the like required for the operation of washing machine 1000. Memory 1400 may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory, or a combination thereof. Memory 1400 may include at least one type of storage medium, namely, flash memory, hard disk memory, multimedia card micro memory, card memory (e.g., Secure Digital (SD) card or eXtreme Digital (XD) memory), random access memory (RAM), static RAM (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), PROM, magnetic storage, magnetic disk, or optical disk. Washing machine 1000 may also access a web storage (not shown) or cloud server (not shown) on the Internet that performs storage functions.

[0305] At least one processor 1100 and at least one memory 1400 may be included in one controller. For example, at least one processor 1100 and at least one memory 1400 may be included in one microcontroller unit (MCU).

[0306] The washing module 1800 may include a driving device configured to rotate the inner tub. The driving device may include a driving motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the driving motor to the inner tub. The rotating shaft may pass through the tub and be connected to the inner tub.

[0307] The driving device may rotate the inner drum in a forward or reverse direction to perform operations corresponding to a washing, rinsing and / or spinning or drying cycle, respectively.

[0308] Washing module 1800 may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve disposed in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub via the detergent supply device. Water may also be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0309] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the controller. The water supply valve can allow water to be supplied to the tub from an external water source or prevent water from being supplied to the tub from an external water source. The water supply valve can include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0310] Washing module 1800 may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the barrel. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires the user to pour the detergent to be used each time washing is performed, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically introduces a predetermined amount of detergent when washing. The detergent supply device may include a detergent container for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent to the barrel while supplying wash water. The water supplied by the water supply pipe may be mixed with the detergent by the detergent supply device. The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied to the barrel. The term "detergent" is used to cover pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent supply device may be divided into a pre-wash detergent storage area, a main wash detergent storage area, a fabric softener storage area, and a bleach storage area.

[0311] Washing module 1800 may include a drainage device configured to drain water received in the tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water from the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0312] The washing machine 1000 may include a control panel disposed on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface that enables interaction between the user and the washing machine 1000. The user interface may include at least one input interface 1500 and at least one output module 1600.

[0313] At least one input interface 1500 may convert sensing information received from a user into an electrical signal. The input interface 1500 may receive a user input for controlling the washing machine 1000.

[0314] The input interface 1500 may include, but is not limited to, user input devices including a touch panel that detects a user's touch, a button that receives a user's pressing operation, a scroll wheel that receives a user's rotating operation, a keyboard, and a dome switch.

[0315] In addition, the input interface 1500 may include a motion detection sensor (not shown). For example, the motion detection sensor may detect a user's motion and receive the detected motion as a user input.

[0316] The input interface 1500 receives a user input and transmits the user input to the processor 1100 .

[0317] The at least one input interface 1500 may include a power button, a start button, a program selection knob (or program selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface 1500 may include, for example, a tactile switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a micro knob, and / or a microphone 1200.

[0318] The at least one output interface 1600 may transmit information related to the operation of the washing machine 1000 to the user in a visual or auditory manner.

[0319] For example, the at least one output interface 1600 can transmit information related to a washing program, an operating time of the washing machine 1000, and a wash setting, a rinse setting, and a spin setting to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine 1000 can be output via a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. The at least one output module 1600 may include a display 1610 and an audio output module 1620.

[0320] The display 1610 may output image data processed by an image processor (not shown) through a display panel (not shown) under the control of the processor 1100. The display panel may include at least one of an LCD, a TFT-LCD, an OLED, a flexible display, a 3D display, or an electrophoretic display.

[0321] The audio output module 1620 may output a sound signal to the outside of the washing machine 1000. The audio output module 1620 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes such as multimedia playback or recording playback.

[0322] The microphone 1200 can receive a user's voice command or voice request. Therefore, the processor 1100 can control the operation corresponding to the voice command or voice request to be executed. In addition, the microphone 1200 can receive sounds around the washing machine 1000.

[0323] The communication module 1300 may transmit and receive information to and from an external device (not shown) or the server 3000 according to a protocol under the control of the processor 1100. The communication module 1300 may include at least one communication module and at least one port for transmitting and receiving data to and from the external device or the server 3000.

[0324] In addition, the communication module 1300 can communicate with external devices via at least one wired or wireless communication network. The communication module 1300 can include at least one of the short-range communication module 1310 and the long-range communication module 1320, or a combination thereof. The communication module 1300 can include at least one antenna for wirelessly communicating with other devices.

[0325] The communication module 1300 can send data to or receive data from an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance). For example, the communication module 1300 can establish communication with the server 3000 and / or the user device 2000 and / or other home appliances, and send and receive various data segments.

[0326] To this end, the communication module 1300 can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel with an external device, as well as support communication via the established communication channel. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module 1300 may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). The communication module 1300 can communicate with the external device via a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct (WFD), or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a traditional cellular network, a fifth-generation (5G) network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a telecommunications network such as a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN))). Various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0327] The short-range communication module 1310 may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication (NFC) communication module, a wireless LAN (WLAN) (Wi-Fi) communication module, a ZigBee communication module, an IrDA communication module, a WFD communication module, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, and the like.

[0328] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module for performing various types of long-distance communications and includes a mobile communication interface that transmits and receives wireless signals to and from at least one of a base station on a mobile communication network, an external terminal, or the server 3000.

[0329] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication module 1300 can communicate with external devices such as the server 3000, user devices (e.g., mobile device 2000), and other home appliances via a nearby access point (AP). The AP can connect the LAN to which the washing machine 1000 or user device is connected to the WAN to which the server 3000 is connected. The washing machine 1000 or user device (mobile device 2000) can then connect to the server 3000 via the WAN.

[0330] The controller can control various components of washing machine 1000 (e.g., a drive motor, a water supply valve, etc.). The controller can control various components of washing machine 1000 based on user input to perform at least one cycle including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying. For example, the controller can control the drive motor of washing module 1800 to adjust the rotation speed of the inner drum, or control the water supply valve of the water supply device of washing module 1800 to supply water to the tub.

[0331] The controller may include hardware such as a processor 1100 and a memory 1400, as well as software such as a control program. For example, the controller may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components in the washing machine 1000, at least one memory for storing data in the form of a program, and at least one processor for performing the aforementioned operations using the data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and processor may each be implemented as a separate chip. The processor may include one, two, or more processor chips, or one, two, or more processing cores. The memory may include one, two, or more memory chips, or one, two, or more memory blocks. Furthermore, the memory and processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0332] The sensor 1700 may include a water level sensor 1710. In addition, in addition to the water level sensor 1710, the sensor 1700 may include a hall sensor and a door sensor, but is not limited thereto.

[0333] The water level sensor 1710 may output a pressure change within an air hose connected to the water level sensor 1710 .

[0334] The at least one processor 1100 may control the washing module 1800 to introduce water into the washing machine 1000 based on a user input for starting washing.

[0335] The at least one processor 1100 may determine the amount of water introduced into the washing machine 1000 based on the water level frequency of the water level sensor 1710 .

[0336] As at least one cycle of washing proceeds, the at least one processor 1100 may accumulate the determined amount of water.

[0337] The at least one processor 1100 may display the accumulated amount of water as the amount of water used during washing based on the completion of washing.

[0338] When one of the at least one cycle is started, the at least one processor 1100 may introduce water into the washing machine 1000 .

[0339] In response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, the at least one processor 1100 may determine a main filling water amount based on the detected water level frequency and the laundry weight.

[0340] When a wash cycle is started, at least one processor 1100 may control the pulsator of the washing module 1800 to determine the weight of the laundry. In response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, the washing machine 1000 may subtract the volume of laundry corresponding to the weight of the laundry from the volume of water corresponding to the detected water level frequency, and determine the result as the main filling water volume for the wash cycle.

[0341] In response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, the at least one processor 1100 may determine a result obtained by subtracting a volume of laundry corresponding to the weight of the laundry and an amount of remaining moisture in the laundry corresponding to the weight of the laundry from a water volume corresponding to the detected water level frequency as a main filling water amount for the rinsing cycle.

[0342] The at least one processor 1100 may drive the pulsator of the washing module 1800 .

[0343] The at least one processor 1100 may determine the amount of refill water replenished into the washing machine 1000 based on a change in the frequency of the water level caused by the driving of the pulsator.

[0344] The at least one processor 1100 may determine the amount of water used in the activated cycle by adding the determined refill water amount to the determined main fill water amount.

[0345] The at least one processor 1100 may determine the sum of the amount of water used during the washing cycle and the amount of water used during at least one rinsing cycle as the amount of water used during washing.

[0346] The at least one processor 1100 may display an average water consumption of the washing machine 1000 within a predetermined period of time based on the water consumption during washing.

[0347] The at least one processor 1100 may drive the pulsator of the washing module 1800 to detect the weight of the laundry in the washing machine 1000. The at least one processor 1100 may display an estimated water usage based on the detected laundry weight and the set washing method.

[0348] At least one processor 1100 may receive a user input for changing a washing method set for washing via input interface 1500. At least one processor 1100 may recalculate an estimated water consumption based on the detected laundry weight and the changed washing method. At least one processor 1100 may display the calculated estimated water consumption.

[0349] The at least one processor 1100 may receive a user input for receiving a washing method recommendation for controlling water usage. The at least one processor 1100 may recommend at least one of a washing program or a washing option based on receiving the user input for receiving a washing method recommendation for controlling water usage.

[0350] The at least one processor 1100 may receive the target water consumption from the server 3000 via the communication module 1300. Based on the estimated water consumption exceeding the target water consumption, the at least one processor 1100 may output a notification indicating that the estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption.

[0351] The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. In this regard, the term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium does not include signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves) and is a tangible device, and the term does not distinguish between data being semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and data being temporarily stored in the storage medium. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer that temporarily stores data.

[0352] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the methods according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be included in a computer program product (e.g., software). Any such software may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium stores one or more computer programs (software modules) that include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform the methods of the present disclosure.

[0353] Any such software may be stored in the form of a volatile or non-volatile storage device, for example, a storage device such as a read-only memory (ROM) (whether erasable or rewritable), or in the form of a memory, such as a random access memory (RAM), a memory chip, device, or integrated circuit, or on an optical or magnetically readable medium, such as a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a magnetic disk, or a magnetic tape. It should be understood that the storage device and the storage medium are various embodiments of non-transitory machine-readable storage suitable for storing a computer program or a computer program including instructions that, when executed, implement various embodiments of the present disclosure. Accordingly, various embodiments provide a program and a non-transitory machine-readable storage storing the program, the program including code for implementing an apparatus or method as claimed in any one of the claims of this specification.

[0354] While the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A washing machine (1000), comprising: Washing module (1800); a water level sensor (1710) configured to detect a water level; display(1610); Memory (1400); and One or more processors (1100), communicatively coupled to the washing module (1800), the water level sensor (1710), the display (1610), and the memory (1400), The memory (1400) stores one or more computer programs including computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by the one or more processors (1100), enable the washing machine (1000): Based on a user input for starting washing, controlling the washing module (1800) to introduce water into the washing machine (1000), determining the amount of water introduced into the washing machine (1000) based on the water level frequency of the water level sensor (1710), As the at least one cycle of washing proceeds, accumulating the determined amount of water, and Upon completion of the washing, the accumulated amount of water is displayed on the display (1610) as the amount of water used during the washing.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein The one or more computer programs further include computer executable instructions for: introducing water into the washing machine when one of the at least one cycle is activated, In response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, determining a main filling water amount based on the water level frequency and the weight of the laundry, driving the impeller of the washing module, determining an amount of refill water replenished into the washing machine based on a change in the water level frequency caused by the driving of the pulsator, and The amount of water used in the activated cycle is determined by adding the determined refill amount to the determined main fill amount.

3. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein: The at least one cycle of washing comprises a wash cycle and at least one rinse cycle, and The one or more computer programs further include computer executable instructions for determining the amount of water used during the wash cycle as the sum of the amount of water used during the wash cycle and the amount of water used during the at least one rinse cycle.

4. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The one or more computer programs further include computer executable instructions for displaying an average water consumption of the washing machine over a predetermined time period based on the water consumption during the washing period.

5. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The one or more computer programs further include computer executable instructions for: detecting the weight of the laundry in the washing machine by driving the pulsator of the washing module, and The estimated water usage is displayed based on the detected laundry weight and the set washing method.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, further comprising: Input interface, configured to change the washing method, The one or more computer programs further include computer executable instructions for: receiving, via the input interface, a user input for changing a washing method set for the washing, recalculating the estimated water usage based on the detected laundry weight and the changed washing method, and Displays the recalculated estimated water usage.

7. The washing machine according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The one or more computer programs further include computer executable instructions for recommending at least one of a wash program or wash options based on receiving user input for receiving a wash method recommendation for controlling water usage during the wash.

8. The washing machine according to claim 5, further comprising: Communication module, The one or more computer programs further include computer executable instructions for: receiving a target water consumption from a server via the communication module, and Based on the estimated water consumption exceeding the target water consumption, a notification indicating that the estimated water consumption exceeds the target water consumption is output.

9. The washing machine according to claim 2, in, The cycles include a wash cycle, and The one or more computer programs further include computer executable instructions for: When the washing cycle is started, the pulsator of the washing module is controlled to determine the weight of the laundry, and In response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, a result obtained by subtracting a volume of the laundry corresponding to the weight of the laundry from a volume of water corresponding to the water level frequency is determined as a main filling water amount for the washing cycle.

10. The washing machine according to claim 2, in, The cycle includes a rinse cycle, and The one or more computer programs further include computer executable instructions for: in response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, subtracting the volume of the laundry corresponding to the weight of the laundry and the amount of remaining water in the laundry corresponding to the weight of the laundry from the volume of water corresponding to the water level frequency, and determining the result as the main filling water amount for the rinsing cycle.

11. A method for displaying washing information performed by a washing machine, the method comprising: controlling the washing module to introduce water into the washing machine based on a user input for starting washing; determining an amount of water introduced into the washing machine based on a water level frequency of a water level sensor in the washing machine; accumulating the determined amount of water as at least one cycle of the washing proceeds; as well as Upon completion of the washing, the accumulated amount of water is displayed as the amount of water used during the washing.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein Determining the amount of water introduced into the washing machine based on a water level frequency of a water level sensor in the washing machine includes: introducing water into the washing machine when one of the at least one cycle is activated; in response to determining that the water level has reached the target water level, determining a main filling water amount based on the water level frequency and the weight of the laundry; driving a pulsator of the washing module; determining an amount of refill water replenished into the washing machine based on a change in the water level frequency caused by driving of the pulsator; and The amount of water used in the activated cycle is determined by adding the determined refill amount to the determined main fill amount.

13. The method according to any one of claims 11 and 12, in, The at least one cycle of washing comprises a wash cycle and at least one rinse cycle, and Wherein, accumulating the determined water amount as the at least one washing cycle proceeds includes: determining the water amount used during the washing period as the sum of the water amount used during the washing cycle and the water amount used during the at least one rinsing cycle.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising: Based on the water consumption during the washing process, an average water consumption of the washing machine within a predetermined period of time is displayed.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, further comprising: detecting the weight of the laundry in the washing machine by driving the pulsator of the washing module, and The estimated water usage is displayed based on the detected laundry weight and the set washing method.

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