Washing machine and method for controlling the same

Abstract

A washing machine may include: a tub; a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub; a plurality of electrodes in the detergent container, a user interface configured to provide information to a user; and a controller configured to, with detergent accommodated in the detergent container: apply a current having a defined frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, detect a voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected voltage, and provide, based on the determined electrical conductivity, information about a state of the detergent through the user interface and / or adjust an amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a continuation application, under 35 U.S.C. § 111(a), of International Application No. PCT / KR2025 / 002110, filed Feb. 13, 2025, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0034146, filed Mar. 11, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates to a washing machine including a detergent supply device, and a method for controlling the same.BACKGROUND ART

[0003] A washing machine is an apparatus for washing laundry through friction by stirring laundry, water, and a detergent together inside a tub with a driving force of a motor.

[0004] The washing machine includes a main body forming an exterior, and a detergent supply device in the main body. While water is supplied to the tub of the washing machine, the detergent supply device allows detergent to be evenly mixed and supplied together with the supplied water.

[0005] The detergent supply device may include a detergent container that accommodates detergent, and a detergent pump that pumps the detergent accommodated in the detergent container. The detergent container may accommodate various detergents, such as powdered detergent, liquid detergent, and fabric softener. The liquid detergent or fabric softener in the detergent container may be drawn into the detergent pump, and discharged to the outside of the detergent pump to move with the washing water to the tub.

[0006] Existing washing machines are unable to automatically measure a concentration and acidity of the detergent in the detergent container.DISCLOSURE

[0007] The disclosure provides a washing machine that may detect changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container and provide a detergent replenishment notification based on the change in detergent concentration, and a method for controlling the same.

[0008] The disclosure provides a washing machine that may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to a tub according to changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container, and a method for controlling the same.

[0009] The disclosure provides a washing machine that may detect a concentration and acidity of detergent accommodated in each of a plurality of chambers forming a detergent container and automatically identify the type of detergent in each of the plurality of chambers, and a method for controlling the same.

[0010] In accordance with the present disclosure, a washing machine may include: a tub; a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub; a plurality of electrodes in the detergent container; a user interface configured to provide information to a user; and a controller configured to, with detergent accommodated in the detergent container: apply a current having a defined frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, detect a voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected voltage, and provide, based on the determined electrical conductivity, information about a state of the detergent through the user interface and / or adjust an amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub.

[0011] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, provide, based on a difference between the determined electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value, a detergent replenishment notification through the user interface indicating that replenishment of the detergent is required.

[0012] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, adjust the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub based on a difference between the determined electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity.

[0013] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, adjust the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub by adjusting a detergent supply time for supplying the detergent to the tub.

[0014] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container: increase the detergent supply time to increase the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the determined electrical conductivity being less than the reference electrical conductivity, and decrease the detergent supply time to decrease the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the determined electrical conductivity being greater than the reference electrical conductivity.

[0015] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, provide, based on the determined electrical conductivity being increased by a defined limit value over a reference electrical conductivity, a detergent hardening notification through the user interface to warn that the detergent is hardened.

[0016] The controller may be further configured to: detect an opening and closing of the detergent container, and set the reference electrical conductivity based on the opening and closing of the detergent container being detected.

[0017] The controller may be further configured to: detect an opening and closing of the detergent container, and set the reference electrical conductivity to the electrical conductivity determined after the detergent container is opened and closed.

[0018] The defined frequency may be a first frequency, the current may be a first current, the detected voltage may be a first voltage, and the determined electrical conductivity may be a first electrical conductivity, and the controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container: determine a concentration of the detergent based on the first electrical conductivity, apply a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, detect a second voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, determine a second electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected second voltage, and determine an acidity of the detergent based on the determined second electrical conductivity.

[0019] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, determine whether the detergent is laundry detergent or fabric softener based on the determined concentration.

[0020] The detergent container may include a first chamber and a second chamber, and the controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the first chamber and the second chamber, provide information through the user interface about whether the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber and the second chamber is laundry detergent or fabric softener.

[0021] The controller may be further configured to provide a chamber selection notification through the user interface to guide a selection of one of the first chamber and the second chamber, in response to the laundry detergent being accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0022] The controller may be further configured to provide a detergent error notification through the user interface in response to the fabric softener being accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0023] In accordance with the present disclosure, in a method for controlling a washing machine including a tub, a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub, a plurality of electrodes in the detergent container, and a user interface configured to provide information to a user, the method may include: with detergent accommodated in the detergent container, applying a current having a defined frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, detecting a voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, determining an electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected voltage, and providing, based on the determined electrical conductivity, information about a state of the detergent through the user interface and / or adjusting an amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub.

[0024] The providing may include providing, based on a difference between the determined electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value, a detergent replenishment notification indicating that replenishment of the detergent is required.

[0025] According to the disclosure, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may detect changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container and provide a detergent replenishment notification based on the change in detergent concentration. In addition, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to a tub according to changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container. Accordingly, the washing machine may minimize changes in washing performance due to the changes in detergent concentration.

[0026] According to the disclosure, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may automatically identify the type of detergent in each of a plurality of chambers forming a detergent container and provide information about the detergent in each of the chambers. In addition, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may automatically control operation of a detergent pump depending on the type of detergent accommodated in each of the chambers, and thus user convenience may be improved.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a view illustrating a detergent supply device of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a view illustrating some separate components of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a floating device and detergent detection electrodes of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 8 is a flowchart briefly illustrating a method for controlling a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the method described in FIG. 8 in greater detail.

[0036] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of adjusting a detergent supply time described in FIG. 9 in greater detail.

[0037] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of determining a reference electrical conductivity and determining a type of detergent described in FIG. 9.

[0038] FIG. 12 is a graph showing electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent concentrations.

[0039] FIG. 13 is a graph showing first electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent concentrations and second electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent acidities.

[0040] FIG. 14 is a table illustrating example information provided for a detergent accommodated in a plurality of chambers of a detergent container.MODES OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0041] Various embodiments of the disclosure and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the corresponding embodiments.

[0042] In describing of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related elements.

[0043] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items unless clearly indicated otherwise in a related context.

[0044] In the disclosure, phrases, such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among the phrases.

[0045] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0046] Terms such as “1st”, “2nd”, “primary”, or “secondary” may be used simply to distinguish an element from other elements, without limiting the element in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0047] When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

[0048] It will be understood that when the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including”, and / or “comprising” are used in the disclosure, they specify the presence of the specified features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof.

[0049] When a given element is referred to as being “connected to”, “coupled to”, “supported by” or “in contact with” another element, it is to be understood that it may be directly or indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element. When a given element is indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with another element, it is to be understood that it may be connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element through a third element.

[0050] It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on” another element, it may be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present.

[0051] A washing machine according to various embodiments may perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. The washing machine is an example of a clothes treating apparatus, and the clothes treating apparatus is a concept including a device capable of washing clothes (objects to be washed, and objects to be dried), a device capable of drying clothes, and a device capable of washing and drying clothes.

[0052] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for inserting or removing laundry is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet is provided to face forward. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine of a loading type other than the top-loading washing machine and the front-loading washing machine.

[0053] For the top-loading washing machine, laundry may be washed using water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. For the front-loading washing machine, laundry may be washed by repeatedly lifting and lowering laundry by rotating a drum. The front-loading washing machine may include a dryer combined washing machine capable of drying laundry stored in a drum. The dryer combined washing machine may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from air discharged from the drum. For example, the dryer combined washing machine may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine using a washing method other than the above-described washing method.

[0054] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a main body accommodating various components therein. The main body may be provided in the form of a box including a laundry inlet on one side thereof.

[0055] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry inlet. The door may be rotatably mounted to the main body by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow the inside of the main body to be visible.

[0056] The washing machine may include a tub disposed within the main body to store water. The tub may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side thereof. The tub may be disposed inside the main body in such a way that the tub opening corresponds to the laundry inlet.

[0057] The tub may be connected to the main body by a damper. The damper may absorb vibration generated when the drum rotates, and the damper may reduce vibration transmitted to the main body.

[0058] The washing machine may include a drum provided to accommodate laundry.

[0059] The drum may be disposed inside the tub such that a drum opening provided on one side of the drum corresponds to the laundry inlet and the tub opening. Laundry may pass sequentially through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening and then be received in the drum or removed from the drum.

[0060] The drum may perform each operation according to washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying while rotating in the tub. A plurality of through holes may be formed in a cylindrical wall of the drum to allow water stored in the tub to be introduced into or to be discharged from the drum.

[0061] The washing machine may include a driving device configured to rotate the drum. The driving device may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting a driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may penetrate the tub to be connected to the drum.

[0062] The driving device may perform respective operations according to washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, or drying processes by rotating the drum in a forward or reverse direction.

[0063] The washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve disposed in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may extend from an external water supply source to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub through the detergent supply device. Alternatively, water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0064] The water supply valve may open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from a controller. The water supply valve may allow or block the supply of water to the tub from an external water supply source. The water supply valve may include a solenoid valve configured to open or close in response to an electrical signal.

[0065] The washing machine may include the detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to enter detergent to be used for each washing, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically adds a predetermined amount of detergent during washing. The detergent supply device may include a detergent container for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during a water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. Water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. Detergent is used as a term including detergent for pre-washing, detergent for main washing, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent container may be partitioned into a storage region for the pre-washing detergent, a storage region for the main washing detergent, a storage region for the fabric softener, and a storage region for the bleach.

[0066] The washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in the tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from a bottom of the tub to the outside of the main body, a drain valve disposed on the drain pipe to open or close the drain pipe, and a pump disposed on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water from the drain pipe to the outside of the main body.

[0067] The washing machine may include a control panel disposed on one side of the main body. The control panel may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0068] The at least one input interface may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0069] The at least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a washing / rinsing / spin-drying setting button. The at least one input interface may include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0070] The at least one output interface may visually or audibly transmit information related to the operation of the washing machine to a user.

[0071] For example, the at least one output interface may transmit information related to a washing course, operation time of the washing machine, and washing / rinsing / spin-drying settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, an indicator, or a voice. The at least one output interface may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, or a speaker.

[0072] The washing machine may include a communication module for wired and / or wireless communication with an external device.

[0073] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range wireless communication module and a long-range wireless communication module.

[0074] The communication module may transmit data to an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance) or receive data from the external device. For example, the communication module may establish communication with a server and / or a user device and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0075] For the communication, the communication module may establish a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the external devices, and support the performance of the communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module may communicate with an external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated as a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0076] The short-range wireless communication module may include a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, and a Zigbee communication module, an IrDA communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0077] The long-range wireless communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-range wireless communication, and may include a mobile communication circuitry. The mobile communication circuitry transmits and receives radio signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server in a mobile communication network.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the communication module may communicate with an external device such as a server, a user device and other home appliances through an access point (AP). The AP may connect a LAN, to which a washing machine or a user device is connected, to a WAN to which a server is connected. The washing machine or the user device may be connected to the server via the WAN. The controller may control various components of the washing machine (e.g., the drive motor, and the water supply valve). The controller may control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one operation including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying according to a user input. For example, the controller may control the drive motor to adjust the rotational speed of the drum or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0079] The controller may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the controller may include at least one memory for storing an algorithm and program-type data for controlling the operation of components in the washing machine, and at least one processor configured to perform the above-mentioned operation by using the data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or may include one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Alternatively, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0080] The terms “front,”“rear,”“side,”“left,”“right,”“upper,”“lower”, and the like are defined with reference to the drawings, and are not intended to limit the shape and position of any element. For example, the terms “upper,” and “lower,” may be defined based on the Z direction shown in the drawings. The terms “front,” and “rear,” may be defined based on the X direction shown in the drawings. The terms “left,” and “right,” may be defined based on the Y direction shown in the drawings.

[0081] Hereinafter, various embodiments according to the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0082] FIG. 1 illustrates a washing machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may include a main body 10 accommodating various components therein. The main body 10 may form an exterior of the washing machine 1. A laundry inlet 11 may be formed on one side of the main body 10. The main body 10 may be in the form of a box including the laundry inlet 11 on one side thereof. The laundry inlet 11 may be formed on a front side of the main body 10.

[0084] The washing machine 1 may include a user interface 15 for interaction between a user and the washing machine 1. The user interface 15 may include an input interface 15a for obtaining a user input. The user interface 15 may include an output interface 15b for outputting information about an operation of the washing machine 1. The input interface 15a may include various buttons and / or dials. The output interface 15b may include a display.

[0085] The user interface 15 may be provided at various locations of the main body 10. For example, the user interface 15 may be provided on the front side of the main body 10. The user interface 15 may also be provided on an upper side of the main body 10.

[0086] The main body 10 may include a detergent container panel 16. The detergent container panel 16 may be located on an upper front side of the main body 10. The detergent container panel 16 may be coupled to a detergent container 150 to be described below. The detergent container panel 16 may be coupled to a front side of the detergent container 150. The detergent container panel 16 may be grasped by a user. The user may hold the detergent container panel 16 and take the detergent container 150 out of the main body 10 or insert the detergent container 150 into the main body 10.

[0087] The washing machine 1 may include a door 41 to open or close the laundry inlet 11. The door 41 may be rotatably coupled to the main body 10 to open or close the laundry inlet 11. The door 41 may be rotatably coupled to the main body 10 by a hinge 42. The door 41 may be coupled to the front side of the main body 10.

[0088] The washing machine 1 may include a tub 20 disposed inside the main body 10. The tub 20 may store water. A tub opening 21 may be formed on one side of the tub 20. The tub opening 21 may be disposed to correspond to the laundry inlet 11. For example, the tub 20 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with the tub opening 21 formed on approximately one side thereof.

[0089] The tub 20 may be connected to a damper 29. The tub 20 may be connected to the main body 10 by the damper 29. The tub 20 may be supported by the damper 29. The damper 29 may absorb vibration generated during rotation of a drum 30, and reduce vibration transmitted to the main body 10.

[0090] The washing machine 1 may include the drum 30 disposed inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may accommodate laundry. The drum 30 may be rotatable inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may rotate during each of a washing process, a rinsing process, and a spin-drying process. A rotation speed and rotation direction of the drum 30 may be adjusted differently for each process.

[0091] A drum opening 31 may be formed on one side of the drum 30. The drum opening 31 may be disposed to correspond to the laundry inlet 11 and the tub opening 21. Laundry may pass sequentially through the laundry inlet 11, the tub opening 21, and the drum opening 31 and then be received in the drum 30. Conversely, laundry may pass sequentially through the drum opening 31, the tub opening 21, and the laundry inlet 11, and then taken out from the drum 30.

[0092] The drum 30 may include a plurality of through holes 34. Water stored in the tub 20 may be introduced into the drum 30 through the through holes 34, or water in the drum 30 may be discharged to the tub 20 through the through holes 34.

[0093] At least one lifter 35 that lifts laundry when the drum 30 rotates may be installed on an inner surface of the drum 30.

[0094] The washing machine 1 may include a driving device 60 configured to rotate the drum 30. The driving device 60 may include a drive motor generating a driving force for rotating the drum 30 and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum 30. The rotating shaft may penetrate the tub 20 to be connected to the drum 30. The driving device 60 may rotate the drum 30 forward or backward.

[0095] The washing machine 1 may include a water supply device 50 to supply water to the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may include a water supply pipe 51 connected to an external water supply source, and a water supply valve 52 for opening and closing the water supply pipe 51. The water supply pipe 51 may be disposed in an upper part in the main body 10.

[0096] The water supply pipe 51 may extend from the external water supply source to a detergent supply device 100 to be described below, and water may be supplied to the tub 20 from the external water supply source through the detergent supply device 100. Alternatively, the water supply pipe 51 may extend to the tub 20 from the external water supply source. In this case, water may be supplied to the tub 20 without passing through the detergent supply device 100.

[0097] The washing machine 1 may include the detergent supply device 100. The detergent supply device 100 may supply detergent to the tub 20. The detergent supply device 100 may be configured to supply water mixed with detergent to the tub 20.

[0098] The detergent supply device 100 may include a detergent container 150 (see FIG. 3) for storing detergent. The detergent supply device 100 may supply detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150 to the inside of the tub 20. Water supplied through the water supply pipe 51 may pass through the detergent supply device 100 and be mixed with detergent. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied to the tub 20.

[0099] The detergent supply device 100 may be connected to the tub 20 through a connecting pipe 53. The water mixed with detergent in the detergent supply device 100 may be supplied to the tub 20 through the connecting pipe 53. The detergent supply device 100 may be disposed in the upper part in the main body 10. For example, the detergent supply device 100 may be disposed above the tub 20.

[0100] The washing machine 1 may include a drainage device 54 to discharge water in the tub 20 to the outside. The drainage device 54 may include a drain pipe 55 extending from a bottom of the tub 20 to the outside of the main body 10, a drain valve 56 for opening and closing the drain pipe 55, and a drain pump 57 disposed on the drain pipe 55.

[0101] The configuration of the washing machine 1 is not limited to those described above. The washing machine 1 may further include various components in addition to the above-described components.

[0102] In addition, the washing machine 1 is described as a front-loading type, but is not limited thereto. A method for controlling the washing machine 1 according to the disclosure may also be applied to a top-loading washing machine and a dryer combined washing machine.

[0103] FIG. 3 is a view illustrating a detergent supply device of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 3, the detergent supply device 100 of the washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may include the detergent container 150. The detergent container 150 may accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0105] The detergent container 150 may include at least one chamber for accommodating detergent. Various types of detergents, such as detergent for pre-washing, detergent for main washing, fabric softener, and bleach, may be accommodated in the chambers of the detergent container 150.

[0106] For example, the detergent container 150 may include a first chamber 151, a second chamber 152, and a third chamber 153. Liquid detergent may be accommodated in the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. For example, liquid laundry detergent or liquid fabric softener may be accommodated in the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The third chamber 153 may accommodate powdered detergent.

[0107] The types of detergent that may be accommodated in each of the first chamber 151, the second chamber 152, and the third chamber 153 are not limited to the above examples.

[0108] The first chamber 151, the second chamber 152, and the third chamber 153 may be partitioned by a chamber partition 154. The chamber partition 154 may be formed to partition the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 inside the detergent container 150. For example, the chamber partition 154 may extend upward from a bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150.

[0109] Although it is shown in FIG. 3 that the first chamber 151 is formed on the right side of the detergent container 150 and the second chamber 152 is formed on the left side of the detergent container 150, the positions of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 are not limited thereto. In addition, it is shown in FIG. 3 that the third chamber 153 is positioned between the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152, but the position of the third chamber 153 is also not limited thereto.

[0110] The detergent container 150 may be movable relative to the main body 10. As described above, the detergent container 150 may be taken out from the main body 10 or inserted into the main body 10. The detergent container 150 may be mounted to be movable relative to a housing 140. The detergent container 150 may be mounted to the housing 140 such that the detergent container 150 may be inserted into the housing 140 or withdrawn from the housing 140.

[0111] One side of the detergent container 150 may be open. For example, an upper side of the detergent container 150 may be open. Upper sides of the first chamber 151, the second chamber 152, and the third chamber 153 may be open to allow detergent to be added to each chamber.

[0112] The detergent supply device 100 may include a detergent container cover 130 to cover the detergent container 150. The detergent container cover 130 may be disposed on an upper part of the detergent container 150. The detergent container cover 130 may be detachably coupled to the upper part of the detergent container 150.

[0113] The detergent container cover 130 may cover the first chamber 151. The detergent container cover 130 may cover the second chamber 152. However, the third chamber 153 may not be covered by the detergent container cover 130.

[0114] The detergent container cover 130 may have a detergent inlet formed to allow detergent to be introduced into the detergent container 150. The detergent inlet may be opened and closed by a detergent container cap 131. The detergent container cap 131 may be detachably coupled to the detergent container cover 130. A plurality of detergent container caps 131 may be provided to open and close each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152.

[0115] Hereinafter, a configuration in which detergent in the detergent container 150 is discharged and the detergent discharged from the detergent container 150 is mixed with water and discharged to the tub 20 is described in detail with an example.

[0116] The detergent supply device 100 may include a water supply cover 110. The water supply cover 110 may form the exterior of the detergent supply device 100 together with the housing 140. The water supply cover 110 may be coupled to an upper part of a water supply plate 120. The water supply cover 110 may be coupled to the water supply plate 120 to seal an upper side of the water supply plate 120. The water supply cover 110 may be coupled to the water supply plate 120 to form a flow path through which washing water supplied from the water supply pipe 51 moves.

[0117] The water supply cover 110 may include a washing water inlet 111 connected to the water supply pipe 51. Water supplied from the water supply pipe 51 may be introduced into the detergent supply device 100 through the washing water inlet 111.

[0118] The detergent supply device 100 may include the water supply plate 120 coupled to the water supply cover 110. The water supply plate 120 may be positioned between the water supply cover 110 and the housing 140. The water supply plate 120 may be positioned between the water supply cover 110 and the detergent container 150. The water supply plate 120 may be positioned between the water supply cover 110 and the detergent container cover 130. For example, the water supply plate 120 may be disposed above the detergent container cover 130. The water supply plate 120 may include a guide partition wall 121 defining a flow path to allow water to flow. Together with the water supply cover 110, the water supply plate 120 may form a flow path through which the water supplied from the water supply pipe 51 moves.

[0119] The water supply plate 120 may include first washing water flow holes 122 formed to allow water flowing into a space between the water supply cover 110 and the water supply plate 120 from the water supply pipe 51 to be discharged to the third chamber 153. The first washing water flow holes 122 may be formed by penetrating the water supply plate 120. The first washing water flow holes 122 may be formed in a region of the water supply plate 120 facing the third chamber 153.

[0120] The water supply plate 120 may include a second washing water flow hole 123 formed to allow a portion of the water supplied through the water supply pipe 51 to flow directly into the housing 140 (i.e., a mixing chamber 141). The second washing water flow hole 123 may be formed upstream of the first washing water flow holes 122. The second washing water flow hole 123 may be formed adjacent to the washing water inlet 111.

[0121] The detergent supply device 100 may include the housing 140 forming the exterior of the detergent supply device 100 together with the water supply cover 110. The housing 140 may be mounted to the main body 10. The housing 140 may be fixed to the main body 10.

[0122] The housing 140 may cover the detergent container 150. The housing 140 may movably support the detergent container 150. An opening may be formed in a front side of the housing 140. The detergent container 150 may be withdrawn from the housing 140 or inserted into the housing 140 through the opening on the front side of the housing 140.

[0123] The housing 140 may include the mixing chamber 141 formed inside the housing 140. Liquid detergent in the first chamber 151 or the second chamber 152 may be moved to the mixing chamber 141 by a detergent pump 400 and then supplied to the tub 20. The third chamber 153 may be connected to the mixing chamber 141 through a flue opening 153a (see FIG. 4). Powdered detergent accommodated in the third chamber 153 may be mixed with water introduced through the first washing water flow holes 122 in the third chamber 153. The water mixed with the powdered detergent may be moved to the mixing chamber 141 through the flue opening 153a.

[0124] An outlet 142 may be formed at the bottom of the housing 140 to discharge the detergent water from the mixing chamber 141 to the outside of the detergent supply device 100. The outlet 142 may be connected to the connecting pipe 53. The outlet 142 may be connected to the tub 20 through the connecting pipe 53. The detergent water in the mixing chamber 141 may be discharged through the outlet 142 and then supplied to the tub 20 through the connecting pipe 53.

[0125] The detergent supply device 100 may include the detergent pump 400. The detergent pump 400 may move detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150 to the mixing chamber 141. The detergent pump 400 may draw in detergent from the detergent container 150 and discharge the detergent to the mixing chamber 141. For example, the detergent pump 400 may draw in detergent from the first chamber 151 or the second chamber 152 and discharge the detergent to the mixing chamber 141.

[0126] The detergent pump 400 may be mounted behind the detergent container 150. The detergent pump 400 may penetrate a pump opening 143 of the housing 140. The detergent pump 400 may include a detergent intake portion 410 to draw in detergent from the detergent container 150. A portion of the detergent intake portion 410 may penetrate a rear side of the detergent container 150 and be inserted into the detergent container 150. A plurality of detergent intake portions 410 may be provided. For example, the detergent intake portions 410 may be provided corresponding to each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152.

[0127] The detergent pump 400 may include a detergent outlet 420 to discharge the detergent drawn in from the detergent container 150 into the mixing chamber 141. The detergent outlet 420 may penetrate a rear side of the housing 140. The detergent outlet 420 may be formed to penetrate the pump opening 143.

[0128] A drive motor (not shown) generating a driving force may be provided in the detergent pump 400. The drive motor of the detergent pump 400 may be controlled by a controller 500 of the washing machine 1.

[0129] FIG. 4 is a view illustrating some separate components of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a floating device and detergent detection electrodes of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 4, FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the detergent supply device 100 may include a detergent amount detection device configured to detect the amount of detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150. For example, the detergent amount detection device may include a floating device 200, and a magnetic field sensor 300 to detect a magnetic field generated by the floating device 200.

[0131] The floating device 200 may be disposed in the detergent container 150. The floating device 200 may be movable in the detergent container 150. A plurality of floating devices 200 may be provided. For example, the floating devices 200 may be disposed in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152.

[0132] In a case where a defined amount of liquid detergent or more is accommodated in the detergent container 150, the floating device 200 may float in the detergent container 150 due to the buoyancy of the liquid detergent. In a case where the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 is less than the defined amount, the floating device 200 may be positioned adjacent to or in contact with the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150.

[0133] In a case where the defined amount of liquid detergent or more is accommodated in the detergent container 150, the floating device 200 may rise from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 due to the buoyancy of the liquid detergent. As the amount of liquid detergent increases, the floating device 200 may rise higher from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150. Conversely, as the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 decreases, the floating device 200 may descend toward the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150. That is, the floating device 200 may be movable in the vertical direction Z according to the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150.

[0134] The magnetic field sensor 300 may include various types of magnetic field sensors. As the floating device 200 rises or descends, an intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 may change. The washing machine 1 may use the change in the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 to identify the amount of liquid detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150. A plurality of magnetic field sensors 300 may be provided to correspond to a plurality of floating devices 200.

[0135] In a case where the floating device 200 is located at the bottom, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 may be the largest. In a case where the floating device 200 rises to a floating position due to the liquid detergent, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 may decrease because a distance between the floating device 200 and the magnetic field sensor 300 increases.

[0136] The magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed on one side of the floating device 200. For example, the magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed below the floating device 200. As shown in FIG. 5, the magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed lower than the detergent container 150. The magnetic field sensor 300 may be mounted on a lower side of the housing 140. Alternatively, the magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed between the detergent container 150 and the housing 140. The magnetic field sensor 300 may be mounted on a lower side of the detergent container 150. The magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed inside the detergent container 150. The magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed in various locations to efficiently detect a magnetic field generated by the floating device 200.

[0137] The floating device 200 and the magnetic field sensor 300 disposed in the first chamber 151 may detect the amount of liquid detergent accommodated in the first chamber 151. The floating device 200 and the magnetic field sensor 300 disposed in the second chamber 152 may detect the amount of liquid detergent accommodated in the second chamber 152.

[0138] The bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 may be formed to slope downward toward the rear of the detergent container 150. As the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 slopes downward toward the rear of the detergent container 150, the liquid detergent may flow toward the rear within the detergent container 150. Because the detergent pump 400 is located at the rear side of the detergent container 150, the detergent in the detergent container 150 may be drawn in more efficiently.

[0139] The floating device 200 may also be disposed in a rear part of the detergent container 150. The floating device 200 may be disposed adjacent to the detergent pump 400 within the detergent container 150. Accordingly, the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 may be detected more efficiently and accurately. For example, the floating device 200 accommodated in the first chamber 151 may be disposed adjacent to a rear end of the first chamber 151. The floating device 200 accommodated in the second chamber 152 may be disposed so as to be spaced apart from a rear end of the second chamber 152 by a predetermined distance.

[0140] The detergent container 150 may include a guide rib 155 to guide the movement of the floating device 200. The guide rib 155 may support the movement of the floating device 200 in the vertical direction Z. That is, the guide rib 155 may guide the floating device 200 to move between a bottom position and a floating position.

[0141] The guide rib 155 may be provided along a periphery of the floating case 220. The guide rib 155 may form a movement space 155s in which the floating device 200 may move in the vertical direction Z. The movement space 155s may extend approximately in the vertical direction Z. The movement space 155s may extend upward from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150.

[0142] The guide rib 155 may extend in the vertical direction Z. The guide rib 155 may extend upward from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150. The guide rib 155 may be formed integrally with the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150. The guide rib 155 may extend from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 to a height approximately equal to the top of the detergent container 150.

[0143] A plurality of guide ribs 155 may be provided. The plurality of guide ribs 155 may be arranged along the periphery of the floating case 220. The plurality of guide ribs 155 may be spaced apart from each other or may be connected to each other.

[0144] The detergent container 150 may be further provided with a cap 156 that covers the movement space 155s. The cap 156 may be coupled to an upper end 155a of each of the plurality of guide ribs 155. The cap 156 may fix the upper end 155a of each of the plurality of guide ribs 155, thereby preventing the upper ends 155a of the guide ribs 155 from moving out of the design position, such as expanding outwardly from the movement space 155s or contracting inwardly of the movement space 155s. The cap 156 may be positioned at a height approximately equal to the top of the detergent container 150.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 6, the washing machine 1 may include a detergent detection electrode 430 to detect detergent in the detergent container 150. A plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 may be provided. For example, a pair of detergent detection electrodes 430 may be provided. The pair of detergent detection electrodes 430 may be positioned at the same height. The detergent detection electrode 430 may include a terminal portion that is electrically conductive. The terminal portion of the detergent detection electrode 430 may be positioned in the detergent container 150.

[0146] Although it is described that the detergent detection electrode 430 is included in the detergent pump 400, the disclosure is not limited thereto. The detergent detection electrode 430 may be provided separately from the detergent pump 400.

[0147] The washing machine 1 may identify whether detergent is present in the detergent container 150 by using the detergent detection electrodes 430. For example, in a case where the liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 contacts the detergent detection electrodes 430, a current is applied to the detergent detection electrodes 430, and thus a voltage may be detected between a pair of detergent detection electrodes 430. As the voltage is detected between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430, the washing machine 1 may identify that liquid detergent is accommodated in the detergent container 150. Conversely, in a case where no voltage is detected between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430, the washing machine 1 may identify that no liquid detergent is in the detergent container 150 or that there is only a small amount of liquid detergent that does not contact the detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0148] The washing machine 1 may determine that liquid detergent is accommodated at or above a predetermined height in the detergent container 150, because the voltage is detected between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The predetermined height may represent the height from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 to the detergent detection electrodes 430. Conversely, based on no voltage being detected after applying current to the detergent detection electrodes 430, the washing machine 1 may determine that very little liquid detergent is present in the detergent container 150 or that the liquid detergent is accommodated below the predetermined height.

[0149] The washing machine 1 may also apply a voltage between two detergent detection electrodes 430 and then detect the current flowing through the detergent detection electrodes 430, thereby identifying whether detergent is present in the detergent container 150.

[0150] In addition, the washing machine 1 may determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the current applied to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 and the detected voltage. The washing machine 1 may determine a concentration and / or an acidity of the detergent corresponding to the electrical conductivity of the detergent. Electrical conductivity is a unique physical property that indicates how well a material allows a flow of electricity. The reciprocal of electrical conductivity corresponds to impedance.

[0151] FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 7, the washing machine 1 may include the controller 500. The controller 500 may be electrically connected to various components and / or devices of the washing machine 1, and may control various components and / or devices. For example, the controller 500 may control the user interface 15, the water supply valve 52, the drain valve 56, the drain pump 57, the driving device 60, and the detergent pump 400. The controller 500 may be electrically connected to a detergent container open / close sensor 90, a communication interface 80, the magnetic field sensor 300, and the detergent detection electrode 430.

[0153] The controller 500 may include a plurality of control circuits, or may be an integrated single control circuit. The controller 500 may include a processor 510 and a memory 520. The memory 520 may include volatile memory (e.g., static random access memory (S-RAM), dynamic random access memory (D-RAM)) and non-volatile memory (e.g., read only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM)). The processor 510 and the memory 520 may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. In addition, a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories may be provided. The processor 510 may process various data and signals using instructions, data, programs, and / or software stored in the memory 520. The processor 510 may include a single or a plurality of cores. The processor 510 may generate control signals for controlling components of the washing machine 1.

[0154] The user interface 15 may obtain various user inputs and may output various information about the operation of the washing machine 1. The user interface 15 may include the input interface 15a and the output interface 15b.

[0155] The controller 500 may control the operation of the washing machine 1 based on user input obtained through the user interface 15. For example, the controller 500 may turn the washing machine 1 on or off based on user input for turning the washing machine 1 on or off. The controller 500 may determine a washing course of the washing machine 1 based on user input for selecting the washing course of the washing machine 1. The controller 500 may start or stop a washing process, a rinsing process, and / or a spin-drying process based on user input through the start and / or stop buttons.

[0156] A variety of washing courses of the washing machine 1 may be provided. The various washing courses may be provided according to the type (e.g., bedding, underwear, etc.) and materials (e.g., cotton, wool, etc.) of laundry. For example, the washing course may include at least one of a standard washing course, intense washing course, delicate clothes washing course, bedding washing course, baby clothes washing course, towel washing course, boiling washing course, and / or outdoor clothes washing course.

[0157] Each of the washing courses may include different washing settings (e.g., washing temperature, a number of rinses, spin speed, etc.). According to a selection of one of the washing courses through the user interface 15 or an external user device, the controller 500 may control the washing machine 1 to perform a washing process, a rinsing process, and a spin-drying process according to the selected washing course. In addition, the washing course may include a rinsing and spin-drying course excluding a washing process, a rinsing course, and a spin-drying course. The washing courses are not limited to the above examples.

[0158] The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to output various information about the operation of the washing machine 1. For example, the user interface 15 may visually and / or audibly output information about the washing course, operation time, washing settings, rinsing settings, and / or drying settings of the washing machine 1. In addition, the user interface 15 may output information about a state of detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150.

[0159] The driving device 60 may rotate the drum 30 under the control of the controller 500. The driving device 60 may include a drive motor. The controller 500 may control the drive motor to adjust a rotation speed of the drum 30.

[0160] The controller 500 may control the opening and closing of the water supply valve 52. The controller 500 may adjust an opening degree of the water supply valve 52. The water supply valve 52 may open or close the water supply pipe 51 based on an electrical signal transmitted from the controller 500.

[0161] The controller 500 may control the opening and closing of the drain valve 56. The controller 500 may adjust an opening degree of the drain valve 56. The drain valve 56 may open or close the drain pipe 55 based on an electrical signal transmitted from the controller 500.

[0162] The drain pump 57 may discharge water in the tub 20 to the outside of the main body 10. The controller 500 may control the drain pump 57 to allow water in the tub 20 to be discharged to the outside through the drain pipe 55.

[0163] The communication interface 80 may include various communication circuitry for performing a wired communication and / or wireless communication with an external device (e.g., servers, user devices, and / or other home appliances). A user device may include various electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, smart watches, stationary type tablets, and speakers. A user input may be obtained not only through the user interface 15 but also through a user device.

[0164] The communication interface 80 may include at least one of short-range communication circuitry or long-range communication circuitry. The communication interface 80 may transmit data to or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication interface 80 may support cellular communication, wireless local area network (WLAN), home radio frequency (HomeRF), infrared communication, ultra-wide band (UWB) communication, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, and ad-hoc and / or Zigbee. The communication technologies supported by the communication interface 80 are not limited to the above.

[0165] The communication interface 80 may communicate with an external device through an access point (AP). The AP may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine 1 is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server is connected. The washing machine 1 may be connected to the server through the WAN.

[0166] The detergent container open / close sensor 90 may detect the opening and closing of the detergent container 150. The detergent container open / close sensor 90 may detect whether the detergent container 150 is inserted into the main body 10 or taken out from the main body 10. The detergent container open / close sensor 90 may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 to the controller 500. The controller 500 may determine the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 based on the electrical signal transmitted from the detergent container open / close sensor 90.

[0167] The magnetic field sensor 300 may detect a magnetic field generated by the floating device 200. The magnetic field sensor 300 may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the magnetic field of the floating device 200 to the controller 500. The controller 500 may determine the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 based on the electrical signal received from the magnetic field sensor 300. The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to output information about the remaining amount of detergent in the detergent container based on the electrical signal received from the magnetic field sensor 300.

[0168] The detergent pump 400 may move the liquid detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 to the mixing chamber 141. The controller 500 may selectively move the detergents accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 to the mixing chamber 141 based on the washing course and / or the user input. In addition, the controller 500 may sequentially move the detergents accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 to the mixing chamber 141.

[0169] The detergent detection electrode 430 may detect detergent in the detergent container 150. A plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 may be provided in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 of the detergent container 150. The controller 500 may apply current to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 and detect a voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. In a case where the detergent detection electrode 430 is in contact with detergent, the controller 500 may determine that detergent is present in the detergent container 150 based on the voltage being detected as a result of current applied to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0170] The controller 500 may determine an electrical conductivity of detergent by applying a current having a defined frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may provide information about a state of the detergent through the user interface 15 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent. The controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent. In addition, the controller 500 may determine the type of detergent based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0171] For example, the controller 500 may determine a first electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a first current having a first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may detect a first voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 according to the application of the first current. The controller 500 may determine the first electrical conductivity based on the first current and the first voltage.

[0172] The controller 500 may determine a second electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may detect a second voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 according to the application of the second current. The controller 500 may determine the second electrical conductivity based on the second current and the second voltage.

[0173] The first electrical conductivity of the detergent determined by applying the first current having the first frequency to the detergent detection electrodes 430 may vary depending on a concentration of the detergent. The controller 500 may determine the concentration of the detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent. The controller 500 may determine the detergent as laundry detergent or fabric softener based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0174] The concentration of liquid may represent the density, viscosity, or thinness of the liquid. In general, the concentration of laundry detergent and the concentration of fabric softener are significantly different, and the concentration of fabric softener is relatively low. In other words, the viscosity of fabric softener is relatively low.

[0175] In addition, the second electrical conductivity of the detergent determined by applying the second current having the second frequency to the detergent detection electrodes 430 may vary depending on an acidity of the detergent. The controller 500 may determine the acidity of the detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent. Laundry detergents may be classified into alkaline detergents, neutral detergents, and acidic detergents. In general, alkaline detergents or neutral detergents are used for washing clothes, depending on the type of fabric. The controller 500 may determine the detergent as an alkaline detergent, a neutral detergent, or an acidic detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0176] The first frequency and the second frequency may be determined variously depending on the design. The first frequency and the second frequency may be different from each other. The first frequency may be higher than the second frequency. For example, the first frequency may be 300 KHz, and the second frequency may be 10 Hz. In other words, the first frequency of the first current applied to the detergent detection electrodes 430 to determine the concentration of the detergent is different from the second frequency of the second current applied to the detergent detection electrodes 430 to determine the acidity of the detergent.

[0177] As described above, the detergent container 150 may include the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide information about whether the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber and the second chamber is laundry detergent or fabric softener.

[0178] The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a chamber selection notification to guide selection of one of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152, in a case where laundry detergent is accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent error notification, in a case where fabric softener is accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152.

[0179] The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent replenishment notification to notify detergent requires to be replenished based on a difference between the electrical conductivity (first electrical conductivity) and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value.

[0180] The controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 according to the difference between the electrical conductivity (first electrical conductivity) and the reference electrical conductivity. The controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 by adjusting a detergent supply time for supplying the detergent.

[0181] For example, in a case where the electrical conductivity is less than the reference electrical conductivity, the controller 500 may increase the detergent supply time to increase the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20. Conversely, in a case where the electrical conductivity is greater than the reference electrical conductivity, the controller 500 may decrease the detergent supply time to decrease the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0182] In a case where a washing process is required to be performed without replenishing the detergent despite the detergent replenishment notification provided, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20. The controller 500 may also adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20, based on the detergent not being replenished for a predetermined wait time after the detergent replenishment notification is provided.

[0183] A user may set whether to be provided with the detergent replenishment notification by operating the user interface 15 or the user device. In a case where the detergent replenishment notification is set to be disabled, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent, regardless of the provision of the detergent replenishment notification.

[0184] In addition, the controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent hardening notification to warn of detergent hardening, based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent being increased by a defined limit value over the reference electrical conductivity.

[0185] The controller 500 may reset the reference electrical conductivity based on the opening and closing of the detergent container 150. The controller 500 may determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent, which is determined for the first time after the detergent container 150 is opened and then closed, as the reference electrical conductivity. The controller 500 may identify the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 based on an electrical signal transmitted from the detergent container open / close sensor 90.

[0186] Information about a state of the detergent may include at least one of information about a concentration of the detergent, information about an acidity of the detergent, detergent replenishment notification, detergent error notification, detergent hardening notification, or chamber selection notification. The information about a state of the detergent may be provided through the user device as well as the user interface 15. The controller 500 may control the communication interface 80 to transmit the information about a state of the detergent to the user device.

[0187] FIG. 8 is a flowchart briefly illustrating a method for controlling a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 8, the controller 500 of the washing machine 1 may apply a current having a defined frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 (801). In FIG. 8, the defined frequency may correspond to the first frequency described above, and the current may correspond to the first current described above. In a case where detergent is present in the detergent container 150, the controller 500 may detect a voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may determine that detergent is present in the detergent container 150 based on detecting the voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0189] The controller 500 may determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent (802). The controller 500 may determine the electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the current applied to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 and the voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 (802). In FIG. 8, the electrical conductivity may correspond to the first electrical conductivity described above. The controller 500 may determine a concentration of the detergent corresponding to the electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0190] The controller 500 may perform at least one of providing information about a state of the detergent through the user interface 15 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent or adjusting the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 (803). The information about the state of the detergent and the adjusting the amount of the detergent are further described in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10.

[0191] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the method described in FIG. 8 in greater detail.

[0192] Operations 901 and 902 in FIG. 9 correspond to operations 801 and 802 in FIG. 8.

[0193] The controller 500 of the washing machine 1 may compare an electrical conductivity of detergent with a reference electrical conductivity (903). The controller 500 may obtain a difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity. The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent replenishment notification based on the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value (904).

[0194] In a case where the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is less than the reference value, the controller 500 may determine that a concentration of the detergent is normal and that the detergent replenishment notification is not required. In this case, the controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to output information indicating that the concentration of the detergent is normal.

[0195] The difference between the electrical conductivity and the reference electrical conductivity may indicate the amount of increase in the electrical conductivity or the amount of decrease in the electrical conductivity. An increase in the electrical conductivity of the detergent may indicate that moisture in the detergent has evaporated and the concentration of the detergent has increased. Conversely, a decrease in the electrical conductivity of the detergent may indicate that moisture has been absorbed into the detergent and the concentration of the detergent has decreased. In both cases where the detergent concentration has increased and where the detergent concentration has decreased, detergent replenishment is required.

[0196] The evaporation of moisture from the detergent or the absorption of moisture into the detergent may occur for various causes. For example, in a case where the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 are not sealed by the detergent container cover 130, the evaporation of moisture from the detergent or the absorption of moisture into the detergent may occur. Moisture may also be absorbed into the detergent due to the residual moisture after washing the detergent container 150.

[0197] In a case where the concentration of the detergent increases, the detergent requires to be replenished to reduce the concentration of the detergent. In a case where the amount of relatively high concentration detergent is the same as the amount of detergent with a normal range concentration, the high concentration detergent contains more washing ingredients. Using the high concentration detergent in a washing process may cause an excessive amount of washing ingredients to enter the tub 20, which may remain on the laundry after the washing process is completed.

[0198] In a case where the concentration of the detergent decreases, the detergent requires to be replenished to increase the concentration of the detergent. In a case where the amount of relatively low concentration detergent is the same as the amount of detergent with a normal range concentration, the low concentration detergent contains less washing ingredients. Accordingly, using the low concentration detergent in the washing process may result in an incomplete washing. In other words, an washing effect by the detergent may be reduced.

[0199] In order to maintain the concentration of the detergent appropriately, the washing machine 1 may notify a user that detergent requires to be replenished.

[0200] The controller 500 of the washing machine 1 may identify whether detergent in the detergent container 150 has been replenished (905). Whether detergent has been replenished may be identified by various methods. For example, the controller 500 may determine that detergent has been replenished based on identifying the opening and closing of the detergent container 150. As another example, the controller 500 may determine that detergent has been replenished based on a decrease in an intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300. As described above, when detergent is replenished, the floating device 200 rises and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 decreases.

[0201] In a case where the detergent is replenished, the controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to stop displaying the detergent replenishment notification. For example, the detergent replenishment notification displayed through the user interface 15 may no longer be displayed as the detergent is replenished.

[0202] In a case where the detergent is replenished, the controller 500 may determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying current to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 again. That is, the controller 500 may periodically monitor the electrical conductivity of the detergent. The controller 500 may determine the electrical conductivity of the detergent at predetermined intervals.

[0203] In a case where the detergent is not replenished, the controller 500 may adjust a detergent supply time according to a difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity (906). That is, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0204] The controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20, in a case where a washing process is required to be performed without replenishing the detergent. The controller 500 may also adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20, based on the detergent not being replenished for a predetermined wait time after the detergent replenishment notification is provided.

[0205] A user may set whether to be provided with the detergent replenishment notification by operating the user interface 15 or the user device. In a case where the detergent replenishment notification is set to be disabled, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent, regardless of the provision of the detergent replenishment notification.

[0206] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of adjusting a detergent supply time described in FIG. 9 in greater detail.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 10, in a case where the detergent is not replenished (No in operation 905) even though the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to the defined reference value, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20. In FIG. 10, non-replenishment of the detergent is exemplified as a precondition for adjusting the amount of the detergent, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. That is, because the detergent replenishment notification may be set to be disabled, the controller 500 may also adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 in a case where the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to the defined reference value (Yes in operation 903).

[0208] In a case where the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to the defined reference value and the electrical conductivity of the detergent is less than the reference electrical conductivity (No in operation 1001), the controller 500 may increase the detergent supply time (1002). As the detergent supply time increases, the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 may increase. In a case where the concentration of the detergent is relatively low, the washing machine 1 may prevent a decrease in the washing effect by increasing the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0209] In a case where the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to the defined reference value and the electrical conductivity of the detergent is greater than the reference electrical conductivity (Yes in operation 1001), the controller 500 may reduce the detergent supply time (1003). As the detergent supply time is reduced, the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 may be reduced. In a case where the concentration of the detergent is relatively high, the washing machine 1 may prevent excessive washing ingredients from entering the tub 20 by reducing the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0210] As long as there is a difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity, the electrical conductivity of the detergent cannot be the same as the reference electrical conductivity. Accordingly, in FIG. 10, a case where the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity are the same is not considered.

[0211] In a case where moisture evaporation from the detergent continues, the electrical conductivity of the detergent may continue to increase. In a case where moisture evaporation from the detergent continues, the detergent may harden. The hardened detergent may not be put into the tub 20 when the detergent requires to be put in.

[0212] The controller 500 may identify whether the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to a limit value (1004). The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent hardening notification to warn of the detergent hardening based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent being increased by the defined limit value over the reference electrical conductivity (1005). In addition, the controller 500 may stop the operation of the washing machine 1 at the same time as the detergent hardening notification. By stopping the operation of the washing machine 1, the washing process may be prevented from being performed without detergent.

[0213] The limit value used to determine whether the detergent is hardened may be greater than the reference value used to determine whether the detergent requires to be replenished.

[0214] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of determining the reference electrical conductivity and determining the type of detergent described in FIG. 9.

[0215] Referring to FIG. 11, the controller 500 may detect whether the detergent container 150 is opened and closed (1101). In a case where the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 is not detected, the controller 500 may determine that detergent is not added to the detergent container 150. Accordingly, the controller 500 may apply a current having a defined frequency to the detergent detection electrodes 430 to determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent remaining in the detergent container 150 (901).

[0216] In response to detecting the opening and closing of the detergent container 150, the controller 500 may reset the reference electrical conductivity (1102). In a case where the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 is detected, the controller 500 may determine that detergent has been added to the detergent container 150. Because detergent is newly added to the detergent container 150, the concentration of the detergent in the detergent container 150 may change. Accordingly, the reference electrical conductivity that serves as a criterion for determining the change in detergent concentration is required to be newly determined.

[0217] The controller 500 may determine a first electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a first current having a first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 (1103). The controller 500 may detect a first voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 according to the application of the first current. The controller 500 may determine the first electrical conductivity based on the first current and the first voltage.

[0218] In a case where the first electrical conductivity of the detergent is less than a defined threshold value (No in operation 1104), the controller 500 may determine that the detergent in the detergent container 150 is fabric softener (1105). Conversely, the controller 500 may determine that the detergent in the detergent container 150 is laundry detergent (1106), in a case where the first electrical conductivity of the detergent is greater than or equal to the defined threshold value (Yes in operation 1104).

[0219] The concentration of liquid may represent the density, viscosity, or thinness of the liquid. In general, the concentration of laundry detergent and the concentration of fabric softener are significantly different, and the concentration of fabric softener is relatively low. In other words, the viscosity of fabric softener is relatively low.

[0220] However, the detergent for infants may have a relatively low concentration despite being laundry detergent. The concentration of the detergent for infants may be similar to that of fabric softener. Accordingly, in the case of the detergent for infants, a user is required to separately input the type of detergent through the user interface 15 or the user device.

[0221] After determining the detergent as laundry detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent, the controller 500 of the washing machine 1 may determine a second electrical conductivity of the detergent (1107). The controller 500 may determine the second electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may determine an acidity of the detergent corresponding to the second electrical conductivity of the detergent (1108).

[0222] Laundry detergents may be classified into alkaline detergents, neutral detergents, and acidic detergents. In general, alkaline detergents or neutral detergents are used for washing clothes, depending on the type of fabric. The controller 500 may determine the detergent as an alkaline detergent, a neutral detergent, or an acidic detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0223] The controller 500 may determine the first electrical conductivity of the detergent, determined for the first time after the detergent container 150 is opened and closed, as the reference electrical conductivity (1109). That is, the first electrical conductivity of the detergent determined immediately after the detergent is added to the detergent container 150 may correspond to the reference electrical conductivity. Thereafter, the controller 500 may determine the change in detergent concentration by comparing the first electrical conductivity detected periodically with the reference electrical conductivity.

[0224] FIG. 12 is a graph showing electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent concentrations.

[0225] As described above, the washing machine 1 may determine the electrical conductivity of the detergent in the detergent container 150, and may distinguish whether the detergent is laundry detergent or fabric softener based on the determined electrical conductivity. The electrical conductivity shown in the graph 1200 of FIG. 12 corresponds to the first electrical conductivity determined by applying the first current having the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0226] Referring to the graph 1200 of FIG. 12, different detergents may exhibit different electrical conductivities. For example, D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, and D8 are laundry detergents produced by different manufacturers. S1, S2, and S3 are fabric softeners produced by different manufacturers.

[0227] In general, the concentration of laundry detergent and the concentration of fabric softener are significantly different, and the concentration of fabric softener is relatively low. In other words, the viscosity of fabric softener is relatively low. As shown in the graph 1200 of FIG. 12, the electrical conductivities of laundry detergents D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, and D8 may all be greater than a defined threshold value EC_th. The electrical conductivities of fabric softeners S1, S2, and S3 may all be less than the defined threshold value EC_th. The unit of electrical conductivity may be expressed as [uS / cm].

[0228] As such, the washing machine 1 may automatically identify the type of detergent by detecting the electrical conductivity, which is a unique property of the detergent in the detergent container 150.

[0229] FIG. 13 is a graph showing first electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent concentrations and second electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent acidities.

[0230] Referring to a graph 1300 of FIG. 13, the horizontal axis represents the first electrical conductivity described in the graph 1200 of FIG. 12. The vertical axis represents the second electrical conductivity determined by applying the second current having the second frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0231] As described above, the washing machine 1 may determine the second electrical conductivity of the detergent, after determining that the detergent is laundry detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent. The washing machine 1 may distinguish the sub-types of the laundry detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0232] Laundry detergents may be classified into alkaline detergents, neutral detergents, and acidic detergents. Alkaline detergents or neutral detergents are generally used for washing clothes, depending on the type of fabric. The washing machine 1 may determine the detergent as an alkaline detergent, a neutral detergent, or an acidic detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0233] As shown in the graph 1300 of FIG. 13, the second electrical conductivity of each detergent corresponding to D1, D2, D4, D5, D6, D7, and D8 is all lower than EC1. D1, D2, D4, D5, D6, D7, and D8 may all correspond to alkaline detergents. On the other hand, the second electrical conductivity of the detergent corresponding to D3 is greater than EC1 and lower than EC2. D3 may correspond to a neutral detergent. “W” represents water. As such, the higher the acidity of the detergent, the higher the second electrical conductivity of the detergent may appear.

[0234] As described above, the washing machine 1 may distinguish the type of detergent as laundry detergent or fabric softener, and may distinguish the sub-types of the laundry detergent by applying currents having different frequencies to the detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0235] FIG. 14 is a table illustrating example information provided for a detergent accommodated in a plurality of chambers of a detergent container.

[0236] Referring to a table 1400 of FIG. 14, the washing machine 1 may provide various information about detergent through the user interface 15. The information about detergent may be provided through a user device as well as through the user interface 15.

[0237] As described above, the detergent container 150 may include the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The washing machine 1 may provide information about the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 may accommodate laundry detergent or fabric softener.

[0238] In a case 1, laundry detergent is accommodated in the first chamber 151 and fabric softener is accommodated in the second chamber 152. In this case, the washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent in the first chamber 151 is laundry detergent. In addition, the washing machine 1 may determine an acidity of the laundry detergent accommodated in the first chamber 151. The washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent accommodated in the second chamber 152 is fabric softener. Accordingly, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in the first chamber 151, i.e., that the detergent is laundry detergent and an acidity of the laundry detergent. In addition, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in the second chamber 152, i.e., that the detergent is fabric softener. The washing machine 1 may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the laundry detergent in the first chamber 151 to be added to the tub 20 during a washing process, and may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the fabric softener in the second chamber 152 to be added to the tub 20 during a rinsing process.

[0239] In a case 2, laundry detergent is accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. In this case, the washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 is laundry detergent, and may determine an acidity of the laundry detergent accommodated in each chamber. Accordingly, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152, i.e., that the detergent is laundry detergent and the acidity of the laundry detergent. In addition, the user interface 15 may provide a chamber selection notification to guide a selection of one of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. That is, the washing machine 1 may guide a user to select laundry detergent to be used for the washing process. The washing machine 1 may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the laundry detergent accommodated in the chamber selected by the user to be added to the tub 20 during the washing process.

[0240] In a case 3, fabric softener is accommodated in the first chamber 151 and laundry detergent is accommodated in the second chamber 152. In this case, the washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent in the first chamber 151 is fabric softener. The washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent in the second chamber 152 is laundry detergent. In addition, the washing machine 1 may determine an acidity of the laundry detergent accommodated in the second chamber 152. Accordingly, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in the first chamber 151, i.e., that the detergent is fabric softener. In addition, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in the second chamber 152, i.e., that the detergent is laundry detergent and the acidity of the laundry detergent. The washing machine 1 may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the laundry detergent in the second chamber 152 to be added to the tub 20 during the washing process, and may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the fabric softener in the first chamber 151 to be added to the tub 20 during the rinsing process.

[0241] In a case 4, fabric softener is accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. In this case, the washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 is fabric softener. The user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152, i.e., that the detergent is fabric softener. In addition, the user interface 15 may provide a detergent error notification. The detergent error notification may allow the user to recognize that no laundry detergent is present in the detergent container 150.

[0242] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a washing machine may include: a tub; a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub; a plurality of detergent detection electrodes configured to detect the detergent in the detergent container; a user interface configured to provide information about the washing machine; and a controller configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes and the user interface. The controller may be configured to determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a current having a defined frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes, and perform at least one of providing information about a state of the detergent through the user interface or adjusting an amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub based on the electrical conductivity.

[0243] The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide a detergent replenishment notification indicating that the detergent requires to be replenished, based on a difference between the electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value.

[0244] The controller may be configured to adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub according to a difference between the electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity.

[0245] The controller may be configured to adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub by adjusting a detergent supply time for supplying the detergent.

[0246] The controller may be configured to increase the detergent supply time to increase the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the electrical conductivity being less than the reference electrical conductivity. The controller may be configured to decrease the detergent supply time to decrease the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the electrical conductivity being greater than the reference electrical conductivity.

[0247] The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide a detergent hardening notification to warn of detergent hardening, based on the electrical conductivity being increased by a defined limit value over a reference electrical conductivity.

[0248] The controller may be configured to reset the reference electrical conductivity based on detecting opening and closing of the detergent container.

[0249] The controller may be configured to determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent, which is determined for the first time after the detergent container is opened and closed, as the reference electrical conductivity.

[0250] The defined frequency may be a first frequency, the current may be a first current, and the electrical conductivity may be a first electrical conductivity. The controller may be configured to determine a concentration of the detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent, and determine an acidity of the detergent based on a second electrical conductivity of the detergent determined by applying a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes.

[0251] The controller may be configured to determine the detergent as laundry detergent or fabric softener based on the concentration of the detergent.

[0252] The detergent container may include a first chamber and a second chamber. The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide information about whether the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber and the second chamber is the laundry detergent or the fabric softener.

[0253] The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide a chamber selection notification to guide a selection of one of the first chamber and the second chamber, in a case where the laundry detergent is accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0254] The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide a detergent error notification, in a case where the fabric softener is accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0255] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, in a method for controlling a washing machine including a tub, a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent, and a plurality of detergent detection electrodes configured to detect the detergent in the detergent container, the method may include: determining an electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a current having a defined frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes; and performing at least one of providing information about a state of the detergent through a user interface or adjusting an amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub based on the electrical conductivity.

[0256] The providing of the information about the state of the detergent may include providing a detergent replenishment notification indicating that the detergent requires to be replenished, based on a difference between the electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value.

[0257] The amount of detergent may be adjusted according to a difference between the electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity.

[0258] The adjusting of the amount of detergent may be performed by adjusting a detergent supply time for supplying the detergent.

[0259] The adjusting of the amount of detergent may include: increasing the detergent supply time to increase the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the electrical conductivity being less than the reference electrical conductivity; and decreasing the detergent supply time to decrease the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the electrical conductivity being greater than the reference electrical conductivity.

[0260] The providing of the information about the state of the detergent may include providing a detergent hardening notification to warn of detergent hardening, based on the electrical conductivity being increased by a defined limit value over a reference electrical conductivity.

[0261] The defined frequency may be a first frequency, the current may be a first current, and the electrical conductivity may be a first electrical conductivity. The method may further include determining a concentration of the detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent, and determining an acidity of the detergent based on a second electrical conductivity of the detergent determined by applying a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes.

[0262] According to the disclosure, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may detect changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container and provide a detergent replenishment notification based on the change in detergent concentration. In addition, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to a tub according to changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container. Through the above, the washing machine may minimize changes in washing performance due to the changes in detergent concentration.

[0263] According to the disclosure, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may automatically identify the type of detergent in each of a plurality of chambers forming a detergent container and provide information about the detergent in each of the chambers. In addition, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may automatically control operation of a detergent pump depending on the type of detergent accommodated in each of the chambers, and thus user convenience may be improved.

[0264] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program codes, and when executed by a processor, the instructions may create a program module to perform operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0265] The computer-readable recording medium may include all kinds of recording media storing instructions that can be interpreted by a computer. For example, the computer-readable recording medium may be read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a magnetic tape, a magnetic disc, a flash memory, an optical data storage device, etc.

[0266] Also, the computer-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium, wherein the term ‘non-transitory storage medium’ simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium. For example, a ‘non-transitory storage medium’ may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0267] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a method according to various embodiments of the disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or be distributed (e.g., downloadable or uploadable) online via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or between two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly. When distributed online, at least part of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored in the machine-readable storage medium, such as a memory of the manufacturer's server, a server of the application store, or a relay server.

[0268] Although embodiments of the disclosure have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, a person having ordinary skilled in the art will appreciate that other specific modifications may be easily made without departing from the technical spirit or essential features of the disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting in all aspects.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0041]Various embodiments of the disclosure and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the corresponding embodiments.

[0042]In describing of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related elements.

[0043]The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items unless clearly indicated otherwise in a related context.

[0044]In the disclosure, phrases, such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among the phrases.

[0045]As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0046]Terms such as “1st”, “2nd”,...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a continuation application, under 35 U.S.C. § 111(a), of International Application No. PCT / KR2025 / 002110, filed Feb. 13, 2025, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0034146, filed Mar. 11, 2024, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The disclosure relates to a washing machine including a detergent supply device, and a method for controlling the same.BACKGROUND ART

[0003] A washing machine is an apparatus for washing laundry through friction by stirring laundry, water, and a detergent together inside a tub with a driving force of a motor.

[0004] The washing machine includes a main body forming an exterior, and a detergent supply device in the main body. While water is supplied to the tub of the washing machine, the detergent supply device allows detergent to be evenly mixed and supplied together with the supplied water.

[0005] The detergent supply device may include a detergent container that accommodates detergent, and a detergent pump that pumps the detergent accommodated in the detergent container. The detergent container may accommodate various detergents, such as powdered detergent, liquid detergent, and fabric softener. The liquid detergent or fabric softener in the detergent container may be drawn into the detergent pump, and discharged to the outside of the detergent pump to move with the washing water to the tub.

[0006] Existing washing machines are unable to automatically measure a concentration and acidity of the detergent in the detergent container.DISCLOSURE

[0007] The disclosure provides a washing machine that may detect changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container and provide a detergent replenishment notification based on the change in detergent concentration, and a method for controlling the same.

[0008] The disclosure provides a washing machine that may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to a tub according to changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container, and a method for controlling the same.

[0009] The disclosure provides a washing machine that may detect a concentration and acidity of detergent accommodated in each of a plurality of chambers forming a detergent container and automatically identify the type of detergent in each of the plurality of chambers, and a method for controlling the same.

[0010] In accordance with the present disclosure, a washing machine may include: a tub; a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub; a plurality of electrodes in the detergent container; a user interface configured to provide information to a user; and a controller configured to, with detergent accommodated in the detergent container: apply a current having a defined frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, detect a voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected voltage, and provide, based on the determined electrical conductivity, information about a state of the detergent through the user interface and / or adjust an amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub.

[0011] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, provide, based on a difference between the determined electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value, a detergent replenishment notification through the user interface indicating that replenishment of the detergent is required.

[0012] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, adjust the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub based on a difference between the determined electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity.

[0013] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, adjust the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub by adjusting a detergent supply time for supplying the detergent to the tub.

[0014] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container: increase the detergent supply time to increase the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the determined electrical conductivity being less than the reference electrical conductivity, and decrease the detergent supply time to decrease the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the determined electrical conductivity being greater than the reference electrical conductivity.

[0015] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, provide, based on the determined electrical conductivity being increased by a defined limit value over a reference electrical conductivity, a detergent hardening notification through the user interface to warn that the detergent is hardened.

[0016] The controller may be further configured to: detect an opening and closing of the detergent container, and set the reference electrical conductivity based on the opening and closing of the detergent container being detected.

[0017] The controller may be further configured to: detect an opening and closing of the detergent container, and set the reference electrical conductivity to the electrical conductivity determined after the detergent container is opened and closed.

[0018] The defined frequency may be a first frequency, the current may be a first current, the detected voltage may be a first voltage, and the determined electrical conductivity may be a first electrical conductivity, and the controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container: determine a concentration of the detergent based on the first electrical conductivity, apply a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, detect a second voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, determine a second electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected second voltage, and determine an acidity of the detergent based on the determined second electrical conductivity.

[0019] The controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, determine whether the detergent is laundry detergent or fabric softener based on the determined concentration.

[0020] The detergent container may include a first chamber and a second chamber, and the controller may be further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the first chamber and the second chamber, provide information through the user interface about whether the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber and the second chamber is laundry detergent or fabric softener.

[0021] The controller may be further configured to provide a chamber selection notification through the user interface to guide a selection of one of the first chamber and the second chamber, in response to the laundry detergent being accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0022] The controller may be further configured to provide a detergent error notification through the user interface in response to the fabric softener being accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0023] In accordance with the present disclosure, in a method for controlling a washing machine including a tub, a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub, a plurality of electrodes in the detergent container, and a user interface configured to provide information to a user, the method may include: with detergent accommodated in the detergent container, applying a current having a defined frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, detecting a voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, determining an electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected voltage, and providing, based on the determined electrical conductivity, information about a state of the detergent through the user interface and / or adjusting an amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub.

[0024] The providing may include providing, based on a difference between the determined electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value, a detergent replenishment notification indicating that replenishment of the detergent is required.

[0025] According to the disclosure, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may detect changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container and provide a detergent replenishment notification based on the change in detergent concentration. In addition, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to a tub according to changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container. Accordingly, the washing machine may minimize changes in washing performance due to the changes in detergent concentration.

[0026] According to the disclosure, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may automatically identify the type of detergent in each of a plurality of chambers forming a detergent container and provide information about the detergent in each of the chambers. In addition, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may automatically control operation of a detergent pump depending on the type of detergent accommodated in each of the chambers, and thus user convenience may be improved.DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a view illustrating a detergent supply device of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a view illustrating some separate components of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a floating device and detergent detection electrodes of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 8 is a flowchart briefly illustrating a method for controlling a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the method described in FIG. 8 in greater detail.

[0036] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of adjusting a detergent supply time described in FIG. 9 in greater detail.

[0037] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of determining a reference electrical conductivity and determining a type of detergent described in FIG. 9.

[0038] FIG. 12 is a graph showing electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent concentrations.

[0039] FIG. 13 is a graph showing first electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent concentrations and second electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent acidities.

[0040] FIG. 14 is a table illustrating example information provided for a detergent accommodated in a plurality of chambers of a detergent container.MODES OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0041] Various embodiments of the disclosure and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the corresponding embodiments.

[0042] In describing of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related elements.

[0043] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items unless clearly indicated otherwise in a related context.

[0044] In the disclosure, phrases, such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among the phrases.

[0045] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0046] Terms such as “1st”, “2nd”, “primary”, or “secondary” may be used simply to distinguish an element from other elements, without limiting the element in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0047] When an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as being “(functionally or communicatively) coupled” or “connected” to another element (e.g., a second element), the first element may be connected to the second element, directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third element.

[0048] It will be understood that when the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including”, and / or “comprising” are used in the disclosure, they specify the presence of the specified features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, operations, components, members, or combinations thereof.

[0049] When a given element is referred to as being “connected to”, “coupled to”, “supported by” or “in contact with” another element, it is to be understood that it may be directly or indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element. When a given element is indirectly connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with another element, it is to be understood that it may be connected to, coupled to, supported by, or in contact with the other element through a third element.

[0050] It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being “on” another element, it may be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present.

[0051] A washing machine according to various embodiments may perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. The washing machine is an example of a clothes treating apparatus, and the clothes treating apparatus is a concept including a device capable of washing clothes (objects to be washed, and objects to be dried), a device capable of drying clothes, and a device capable of washing and drying clothes.

[0052] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for inserting or removing laundry is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet is provided to face forward. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine of a loading type other than the top-loading washing machine and the front-loading washing machine.

[0053] For the top-loading washing machine, laundry may be washed using water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. For the front-loading washing machine, laundry may be washed by repeatedly lifting and lowering laundry by rotating a drum. The front-loading washing machine may include a dryer combined washing machine capable of drying laundry stored in a drum. The dryer combined washing machine may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from air discharged from the drum. For example, the dryer combined washing machine may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine using a washing method other than the above-described washing method.

[0054] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a main body accommodating various components therein. The main body may be provided in the form of a box including a laundry inlet on one side thereof.

[0055] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry inlet. The door may be rotatably mounted to the main body by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow the inside of the main body to be visible.

[0056] The washing machine may include a tub disposed within the main body to store water. The tub may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side thereof. The tub may be disposed inside the main body in such a way that the tub opening corresponds to the laundry inlet.

[0057] The tub may be connected to the main body by a damper. The damper may absorb vibration generated when the drum rotates, and the damper may reduce vibration transmitted to the main body.

[0058] The washing machine may include a drum provided to accommodate laundry.

[0059] The drum may be disposed inside the tub such that a drum opening provided on one side of the drum corresponds to the laundry inlet and the tub opening. Laundry may pass sequentially through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening and then be received in the drum or removed from the drum.

[0060] The drum may perform each operation according to washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying while rotating in the tub. A plurality of through holes may be formed in a cylindrical wall of the drum to allow water stored in the tub to be introduced into or to be discharged from the drum.

[0061] The washing machine may include a driving device configured to rotate the drum. The driving device may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting a driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may penetrate the tub to be connected to the drum.

[0062] The driving device may perform respective operations according to washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, or drying processes by rotating the drum in a forward or reverse direction.

[0063] The washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve disposed in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may extend from an external water supply source to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub through the detergent supply device. Alternatively, water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0064] The water supply valve may open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from a controller. The water supply valve may allow or block the supply of water to the tub from an external water supply source. The water supply valve may include a solenoid valve configured to open or close in response to an electrical signal.

[0065] The washing machine may include the detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to enter detergent to be used for each washing, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically adds a predetermined amount of detergent during washing. The detergent supply device may include a detergent container for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during a water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. Water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. Detergent is used as a term including detergent for pre-washing, detergent for main washing, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent container may be partitioned into a storage region for the pre-washing detergent, a storage region for the main washing detergent, a storage region for the fabric softener, and a storage region for the bleach.

[0066] The washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in the tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from a bottom of the tub to the outside of the main body, a drain valve disposed on the drain pipe to open or close the drain pipe, and a pump disposed on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water from the drain pipe to the outside of the main body.

[0067] The washing machine may include a control panel disposed on one side of the main body. The control panel may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0068] The at least one input interface may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0069] The at least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a washing / rinsing / spin-drying setting button. The at least one input interface may include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0070] The at least one output interface may visually or audibly transmit information related to the operation of the washing machine to a user.

[0071] For example, the at least one output interface may transmit information related to a washing course, operation time of the washing machine, and washing / rinsing / spin-drying settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, an indicator, or a voice. The at least one output interface may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, or a speaker.

[0072] The washing machine may include a communication module for wired and / or wireless communication with an external device.

[0073] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range wireless communication module and a long-range wireless communication module.

[0074] The communication module may transmit data to an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance) or receive data from the external device. For example, the communication module may establish communication with a server and / or a user device and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0075] For the communication, the communication module may establish a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the external devices, and support the performance of the communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module may communicate with an external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated as a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as a plurality of separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0076] The short-range wireless communication module may include a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, and a Zigbee communication module, an IrDA communication module, a Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0077] The long-range wireless communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-range wireless communication, and may include a mobile communication circuitry. The mobile communication circuitry transmits and receives radio signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server in a mobile communication network.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the communication module may communicate with an external device such as a server, a user device and other home appliances through an access point (AP). The AP may connect a LAN, to which a washing machine or a user device is connected, to a WAN to which a server is connected. The washing machine or the user device may be connected to the server via the WAN. The controller may control various components of the washing machine (e.g., the drive motor, and the water supply valve). The controller may control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one operation including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying according to a user input. For example, the controller may control the drive motor to adjust the rotational speed of the drum or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0079] The controller may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the controller may include at least one memory for storing an algorithm and program-type data for controlling the operation of components in the washing machine, and at least one processor configured to perform the above-mentioned operation by using the data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or may include one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Alternatively, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0080] The terms “front,”“rear,”“side,”“left,”“right,”“upper,”“lower”, and the like are defined with reference to the drawings, and are not intended to limit the shape and position of any element. For example, the terms “upper,” and “lower,” may be defined based on the Z direction shown in the drawings. The terms “front,” and “rear,” may be defined based on the X direction shown in the drawings. The terms “left,” and “right,” may be defined based on the Y direction shown in the drawings.

[0081] Hereinafter, various embodiments according to the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0082] FIG. 1 illustrates a washing machine according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may include a main body 10 accommodating various components therein. The main body 10 may form an exterior of the washing machine 1. A laundry inlet 11 may be formed on one side of the main body 10. The main body 10 may be in the form of a box including the laundry inlet 11 on one side thereof. The laundry inlet 11 may be formed on a front side of the main body 10.

[0084] The washing machine 1 may include a user interface 15 for interaction between a user and the washing machine 1. The user interface 15 may include an input interface 15a for obtaining a user input. The user interface 15 may include an output interface 15b for outputting information about an operation of the washing machine 1. The input interface 15a may include various buttons and / or dials. The output interface 15b may include a display.

[0085] The user interface 15 may be provided at various locations of the main body 10. For example, the user interface 15 may be provided on the front side of the main body 10. The user interface 15 may also be provided on an upper side of the main body 10.

[0086] The main body 10 may include a detergent container panel 16. The detergent container panel 16 may be located on an upper front side of the main body 10. The detergent container panel 16 may be coupled to a detergent container 150 to be described below. The detergent container panel 16 may be coupled to a front side of the detergent container 150. The detergent container panel 16 may be grasped by a user. The user may hold the detergent container panel 16 and take the detergent container 150 out of the main body 10 or insert the detergent container 150 into the main body 10.

[0087] The washing machine 1 may include a door 41 to open or close the laundry inlet 11. The door 41 may be rotatably coupled to the main body 10 to open or close the laundry inlet 11. The door 41 may be rotatably coupled to the main body 10 by a hinge 42. The door 41 may be coupled to the front side of the main body 10.

[0088] The washing machine 1 may include a tub 20 disposed inside the main body 10. The tub 20 may store water. A tub opening 21 may be formed on one side of the tub 20. The tub opening 21 may be disposed to correspond to the laundry inlet 11. For example, the tub 20 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with the tub opening 21 formed on approximately one side thereof.

[0089] The tub 20 may be connected to a damper 29. The tub 20 may be connected to the main body 10 by the damper 29. The tub 20 may be supported by the damper 29. The damper 29 may absorb vibration generated during rotation of a drum 30, and reduce vibration transmitted to the main body 10.

[0090] The washing machine 1 may include the drum 30 disposed inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may accommodate laundry. The drum 30 may be rotatable inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may rotate during each of a washing process, a rinsing process, and a spin-drying process. A rotation speed and rotation direction of the drum 30 may be adjusted differently for each process.

[0091] A drum opening 31 may be formed on one side of the drum 30. The drum opening 31 may be disposed to correspond to the laundry inlet 11 and the tub opening 21. Laundry may pass sequentially through the laundry inlet 11, the tub opening 21, and the drum opening 31 and then be received in the drum 30. Conversely, laundry may pass sequentially through the drum opening 31, the tub opening 21, and the laundry inlet 11, and then taken out from the drum 30.

[0092] The drum 30 may include a plurality of through holes 34. Water stored in the tub 20 may be introduced into the drum 30 through the through holes 34, or water in the drum 30 may be discharged to the tub 20 through the through holes 34.

[0093] At least one lifter 35 that lifts laundry when the drum 30 rotates may be installed on an inner surface of the drum 30.

[0094] The washing machine 1 may include a driving device 60 configured to rotate the drum 30. The driving device 60 may include a drive motor generating a driving force for rotating the drum 30 and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum 30. The rotating shaft may penetrate the tub 20 to be connected to the drum 30. The driving device 60 may rotate the drum 30 forward or backward.

[0095] The washing machine 1 may include a water supply device 50 to supply water to the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may include a water supply pipe 51 connected to an external water supply source, and a water supply valve 52 for opening and closing the water supply pipe 51. The water supply pipe 51 may be disposed in an upper part in the main body 10.

[0096] The water supply pipe 51 may extend from the external water supply source to a detergent supply device 100 to be described below, and water may be supplied to the tub 20 from the external water supply source through the detergent supply device 100. Alternatively, the water supply pipe 51 may extend to the tub 20 from the external water supply source. In this case, water may be supplied to the tub 20 without passing through the detergent supply device 100.

[0097] The washing machine 1 may include the detergent supply device 100. The detergent supply device 100 may supply detergent to the tub 20. The detergent supply device 100 may be configured to supply water mixed with detergent to the tub 20.

[0098] The detergent supply device 100 may include a detergent container 150 (see FIG. 3) for storing detergent. The detergent supply device 100 may supply detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150 to the inside of the tub 20. Water supplied through the water supply pipe 51 may pass through the detergent supply device 100 and be mixed with detergent. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied to the tub 20.

[0099] The detergent supply device 100 may be connected to the tub 20 through a connecting pipe 53. The water mixed with detergent in the detergent supply device 100 may be supplied to the tub 20 through the connecting pipe 53. The detergent supply device 100 may be disposed in the upper part in the main body 10. For example, the detergent supply device 100 may be disposed above the tub 20.

[0100] The washing machine 1 may include a drainage device 54 to discharge water in the tub 20 to the outside. The drainage device 54 may include a drain pipe 55 extending from a bottom of the tub 20 to the outside of the main body 10, a drain valve 56 for opening and closing the drain pipe 55, and a drain pump 57 disposed on the drain pipe 55.

[0101] The configuration of the washing machine 1 is not limited to those described above. The washing machine 1 may further include various components in addition to the above-described components.

[0102] In addition, the washing machine 1 is described as a front-loading type, but is not limited thereto. A method for controlling the washing machine 1 according to the disclosure may also be applied to a top-loading washing machine and a dryer combined washing machine.

[0103] FIG. 3 is a view illustrating a detergent supply device of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 3, the detergent supply device 100 of the washing machine 1 according to an embodiment may include the detergent container 150. The detergent container 150 may accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0105] The detergent container 150 may include at least one chamber for accommodating detergent. Various types of detergents, such as detergent for pre-washing, detergent for main washing, fabric softener, and bleach, may be accommodated in the chambers of the detergent container 150.

[0106] For example, the detergent container 150 may include a first chamber 151, a second chamber 152, and a third chamber 153. Liquid detergent may be accommodated in the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. For example, liquid laundry detergent or liquid fabric softener may be accommodated in the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The third chamber 153 may accommodate powdered detergent.

[0107] The types of detergent that may be accommodated in each of the first chamber 151, the second chamber 152, and the third chamber 153 are not limited to the above examples.

[0108] The first chamber 151, the second chamber 152, and the third chamber 153 may be partitioned by a chamber partition 154. The chamber partition 154 may be formed to partition the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 inside the detergent container 150. For example, the chamber partition 154 may extend upward from a bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150.

[0109] Although it is shown in FIG. 3 that the first chamber 151 is formed on the right side of the detergent container 150 and the second chamber 152 is formed on the left side of the detergent container 150, the positions of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 are not limited thereto. In addition, it is shown in FIG. 3 that the third chamber 153 is positioned between the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152, but the position of the third chamber 153 is also not limited thereto.

[0110] The detergent container 150 may be movable relative to the main body 10. As described above, the detergent container 150 may be taken out from the main body 10 or inserted into the main body 10. The detergent container 150 may be mounted to be movable relative to a housing 140. The detergent container 150 may be mounted to the housing 140 such that the detergent container 150 may be inserted into the housing 140 or withdrawn from the housing 140.

[0111] One side of the detergent container 150 may be open. For example, an upper side of the detergent container 150 may be open. Upper sides of the first chamber 151, the second chamber 152, and the third chamber 153 may be open to allow detergent to be added to each chamber.

[0112] The detergent supply device 100 may include a detergent container cover 130 to cover the detergent container 150. The detergent container cover 130 may be disposed on an upper part of the detergent container 150. The detergent container cover 130 may be detachably coupled to the upper part of the detergent container 150.

[0113] The detergent container cover 130 may cover the first chamber 151. The detergent container cover 130 may cover the second chamber 152. However, the third chamber 153 may not be covered by the detergent container cover 130.

[0114] The detergent container cover 130 may have a detergent inlet formed to allow detergent to be introduced into the detergent container 150. The detergent inlet may be opened and closed by a detergent container cap 131. The detergent container cap 131 may be detachably coupled to the detergent container cover 130. A plurality of detergent container caps 131 may be provided to open and close each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152.

[0115] Hereinafter, a configuration in which detergent in the detergent container 150 is discharged and the detergent discharged from the detergent container 150 is mixed with water and discharged to the tub 20 is described in detail with an example.

[0116] The detergent supply device 100 may include a water supply cover 110. The water supply cover 110 may form the exterior of the detergent supply device 100 together with the housing 140. The water supply cover 110 may be coupled to an upper part of a water supply plate 120. The water supply cover 110 may be coupled to the water supply plate 120 to seal an upper side of the water supply plate 120. The water supply cover 110 may be coupled to the water supply plate 120 to form a flow path through which washing water supplied from the water supply pipe 51 moves.

[0117] The water supply cover 110 may include a washing water inlet 111 connected to the water supply pipe 51. Water supplied from the water supply pipe 51 may be introduced into the detergent supply device 100 through the washing water inlet 111.

[0118] The detergent supply device 100 may include the water supply plate 120 coupled to the water supply cover 110. The water supply plate 120 may be positioned between the water supply cover 110 and the housing 140. The water supply plate 120 may be positioned between the water supply cover 110 and the detergent container 150. The water supply plate 120 may be positioned between the water supply cover 110 and the detergent container cover 130. For example, the water supply plate 120 may be disposed above the detergent container cover 130. The water supply plate 120 may include a guide partition wall 121 defining a flow path to allow water to flow. Together with the water supply cover 110, the water supply plate 120 may form a flow path through which the water supplied from the water supply pipe 51 moves.

[0119] The water supply plate 120 may include first washing water flow holes 122 formed to allow water flowing into a space between the water supply cover 110 and the water supply plate 120 from the water supply pipe 51 to be discharged to the third chamber 153. The first washing water flow holes 122 may be formed by penetrating the water supply plate 120. The first washing water flow holes 122 may be formed in a region of the water supply plate 120 facing the third chamber 153.

[0120] The water supply plate 120 may include a second washing water flow hole 123 formed to allow a portion of the water supplied through the water supply pipe 51 to flow directly into the housing 140 (i.e., a mixing chamber 141). The second washing water flow hole 123 may be formed upstream of the first washing water flow holes 122. The second washing water flow hole 123 may be formed adjacent to the washing water inlet 111.

[0121] The detergent supply device 100 may include the housing 140 forming the exterior of the detergent supply device 100 together with the water supply cover 110. The housing 140 may be mounted to the main body 10. The housing 140 may be fixed to the main body 10.

[0122] The housing 140 may cover the detergent container 150. The housing 140 may movably support the detergent container 150. An opening may be formed in a front side of the housing 140. The detergent container 150 may be withdrawn from the housing 140 or inserted into the housing 140 through the opening on the front side of the housing 140.

[0123] The housing 140 may include the mixing chamber 141 formed inside the housing 140. Liquid detergent in the first chamber 151 or the second chamber 152 may be moved to the mixing chamber 141 by a detergent pump 400 and then supplied to the tub 20. The third chamber 153 may be connected to the mixing chamber 141 through a flue opening 153a (see FIG. 4). Powdered detergent accommodated in the third chamber 153 may be mixed with water introduced through the first washing water flow holes 122 in the third chamber 153. The water mixed with the powdered detergent may be moved to the mixing chamber 141 through the flue opening 153a.

[0124] An outlet 142 may be formed at the bottom of the housing 140 to discharge the detergent water from the mixing chamber 141 to the outside of the detergent supply device 100. The outlet 142 may be connected to the connecting pipe 53. The outlet 142 may be connected to the tub 20 through the connecting pipe 53. The detergent water in the mixing chamber 141 may be discharged through the outlet 142 and then supplied to the tub 20 through the connecting pipe 53.

[0125] The detergent supply device 100 may include the detergent pump 400. The detergent pump 400 may move detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150 to the mixing chamber 141. The detergent pump 400 may draw in detergent from the detergent container 150 and discharge the detergent to the mixing chamber 141. For example, the detergent pump 400 may draw in detergent from the first chamber 151 or the second chamber 152 and discharge the detergent to the mixing chamber 141.

[0126] The detergent pump 400 may be mounted behind the detergent container 150. The detergent pump 400 may penetrate a pump opening 143 of the housing 140. The detergent pump 400 may include a detergent intake portion 410 to draw in detergent from the detergent container 150. A portion of the detergent intake portion 410 may penetrate a rear side of the detergent container 150 and be inserted into the detergent container 150. A plurality of detergent intake portions 410 may be provided. For example, the detergent intake portions 410 may be provided corresponding to each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152.

[0127] The detergent pump 400 may include a detergent outlet 420 to discharge the detergent drawn in from the detergent container 150 into the mixing chamber 141. The detergent outlet 420 may penetrate a rear side of the housing 140. The detergent outlet 420 may be formed to penetrate the pump opening 143.

[0128] A drive motor (not shown) generating a driving force may be provided in the detergent pump 400. The drive motor of the detergent pump 400 may be controlled by a controller 500 of the washing machine 1.

[0129] FIG. 4 is a view illustrating some separate components of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a floating device and detergent detection electrodes of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 4, FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the detergent supply device 100 may include a detergent amount detection device configured to detect the amount of detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150. For example, the detergent amount detection device may include a floating device 200, and a magnetic field sensor 300 to detect a magnetic field generated by the floating device 200.

[0131] The floating device 200 may be disposed in the detergent container 150. The floating device 200 may be movable in the detergent container 150. A plurality of floating devices 200 may be provided. For example, the floating devices 200 may be disposed in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152.

[0132] In a case where a defined amount of liquid detergent or more is accommodated in the detergent container 150, the floating device 200 may float in the detergent container 150 due to the buoyancy of the liquid detergent. In a case where the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 is less than the defined amount, the floating device 200 may be positioned adjacent to or in contact with the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150.

[0133] In a case where the defined amount of liquid detergent or more is accommodated in the detergent container 150, the floating device 200 may rise from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 due to the buoyancy of the liquid detergent. As the amount of liquid detergent increases, the floating device 200 may rise higher from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150. Conversely, as the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 decreases, the floating device 200 may descend toward the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150. That is, the floating device 200 may be movable in the vertical direction Z according to the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150.

[0134] The magnetic field sensor 300 may include various types of magnetic field sensors. As the floating device 200 rises or descends, an intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 may change. The washing machine 1 may use the change in the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 to identify the amount of liquid detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150. A plurality of magnetic field sensors 300 may be provided to correspond to a plurality of floating devices 200.

[0135] In a case where the floating device 200 is located at the bottom, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 may be the largest. In a case where the floating device 200 rises to a floating position due to the liquid detergent, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 may decrease because a distance between the floating device 200 and the magnetic field sensor 300 increases.

[0136] The magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed on one side of the floating device 200. For example, the magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed below the floating device 200. As shown in FIG. 5, the magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed lower than the detergent container 150. The magnetic field sensor 300 may be mounted on a lower side of the housing 140. Alternatively, the magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed between the detergent container 150 and the housing 140. The magnetic field sensor 300 may be mounted on a lower side of the detergent container 150. The magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed inside the detergent container 150. The magnetic field sensor 300 may be disposed in various locations to efficiently detect a magnetic field generated by the floating device 200.

[0137] The floating device 200 and the magnetic field sensor 300 disposed in the first chamber 151 may detect the amount of liquid detergent accommodated in the first chamber 151. The floating device 200 and the magnetic field sensor 300 disposed in the second chamber 152 may detect the amount of liquid detergent accommodated in the second chamber 152.

[0138] The bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 may be formed to slope downward toward the rear of the detergent container 150. As the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 slopes downward toward the rear of the detergent container 150, the liquid detergent may flow toward the rear within the detergent container 150. Because the detergent pump 400 is located at the rear side of the detergent container 150, the detergent in the detergent container 150 may be drawn in more efficiently.

[0139] The floating device 200 may also be disposed in a rear part of the detergent container 150. The floating device 200 may be disposed adjacent to the detergent pump 400 within the detergent container 150. Accordingly, the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 may be detected more efficiently and accurately. For example, the floating device 200 accommodated in the first chamber 151 may be disposed adjacent to a rear end of the first chamber 151. The floating device 200 accommodated in the second chamber 152 may be disposed so as to be spaced apart from a rear end of the second chamber 152 by a predetermined distance.

[0140] The detergent container 150 may include a guide rib 155 to guide the movement of the floating device 200. The guide rib 155 may support the movement of the floating device 200 in the vertical direction Z. That is, the guide rib 155 may guide the floating device 200 to move between a bottom position and a floating position.

[0141] The guide rib 155 may be provided along a periphery of the floating case 220. The guide rib 155 may form a movement space 155s in which the floating device 200 may move in the vertical direction Z. The movement space 155s may extend approximately in the vertical direction Z. The movement space 155s may extend upward from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150.

[0142] The guide rib 155 may extend in the vertical direction Z. The guide rib 155 may extend upward from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150. The guide rib 155 may be formed integrally with the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150. The guide rib 155 may extend from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 to a height approximately equal to the top of the detergent container 150.

[0143] A plurality of guide ribs 155 may be provided. The plurality of guide ribs 155 may be arranged along the periphery of the floating case 220. The plurality of guide ribs 155 may be spaced apart from each other or may be connected to each other.

[0144] The detergent container 150 may be further provided with a cap 156 that covers the movement space 155s. The cap 156 may be coupled to an upper end 155a of each of the plurality of guide ribs 155. The cap 156 may fix the upper end 155a of each of the plurality of guide ribs 155, thereby preventing the upper ends 155a of the guide ribs 155 from moving out of the design position, such as expanding outwardly from the movement space 155s or contracting inwardly of the movement space 155s. The cap 156 may be positioned at a height approximately equal to the top of the detergent container 150.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 6, the washing machine 1 may include a detergent detection electrode 430 to detect detergent in the detergent container 150. A plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 may be provided. For example, a pair of detergent detection electrodes 430 may be provided. The pair of detergent detection electrodes 430 may be positioned at the same height. The detergent detection electrode 430 may include a terminal portion that is electrically conductive. The terminal portion of the detergent detection electrode 430 may be positioned in the detergent container 150.

[0146] Although it is described that the detergent detection electrode 430 is included in the detergent pump 400, the disclosure is not limited thereto. The detergent detection electrode 430 may be provided separately from the detergent pump 400.

[0147] The washing machine 1 may identify whether detergent is present in the detergent container 150 by using the detergent detection electrodes 430. For example, in a case where the liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 contacts the detergent detection electrodes 430, a current is applied to the detergent detection electrodes 430, and thus a voltage may be detected between a pair of detergent detection electrodes 430. As the voltage is detected between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430, the washing machine 1 may identify that liquid detergent is accommodated in the detergent container 150. Conversely, in a case where no voltage is detected between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430, the washing machine 1 may identify that no liquid detergent is in the detergent container 150 or that there is only a small amount of liquid detergent that does not contact the detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0148] The washing machine 1 may determine that liquid detergent is accommodated at or above a predetermined height in the detergent container 150, because the voltage is detected between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The predetermined height may represent the height from the bottom side 150a of the detergent container 150 to the detergent detection electrodes 430. Conversely, based on no voltage being detected after applying current to the detergent detection electrodes 430, the washing machine 1 may determine that very little liquid detergent is present in the detergent container 150 or that the liquid detergent is accommodated below the predetermined height.

[0149] The washing machine 1 may also apply a voltage between two detergent detection electrodes 430 and then detect the current flowing through the detergent detection electrodes 430, thereby identifying whether detergent is present in the detergent container 150.

[0150] In addition, the washing machine 1 may determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the current applied to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 and the detected voltage. The washing machine 1 may determine a concentration and / or an acidity of the detergent corresponding to the electrical conductivity of the detergent. Electrical conductivity is a unique physical property that indicates how well a material allows a flow of electricity. The reciprocal of electrical conductivity corresponds to impedance.

[0151] FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 7, the washing machine 1 may include the controller 500. The controller 500 may be electrically connected to various components and / or devices of the washing machine 1, and may control various components and / or devices. For example, the controller 500 may control the user interface 15, the water supply valve 52, the drain valve 56, the drain pump 57, the driving device 60, and the detergent pump 400. The controller 500 may be electrically connected to a detergent container open / close sensor 90, a communication interface 80, the magnetic field sensor 300, and the detergent detection electrode 430.

[0153] The controller 500 may include a plurality of control circuits, or may be an integrated single control circuit. The controller 500 may include a processor 510 and a memory 520. The memory 520 may include volatile memory (e.g., static random access memory (S-RAM), dynamic random access memory (D-RAM)) and non-volatile memory (e.g., read only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM)). The processor 510 and the memory 520 may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. In addition, a plurality of processors and a plurality of memories may be provided. The processor 510 may process various data and signals using instructions, data, programs, and / or software stored in the memory 520. The processor 510 may include a single or a plurality of cores. The processor 510 may generate control signals for controlling components of the washing machine 1.

[0154] The user interface 15 may obtain various user inputs and may output various information about the operation of the washing machine 1. The user interface 15 may include the input interface 15a and the output interface 15b.

[0155] The controller 500 may control the operation of the washing machine 1 based on user input obtained through the user interface 15. For example, the controller 500 may turn the washing machine 1 on or off based on user input for turning the washing machine 1 on or off. The controller 500 may determine a washing course of the washing machine 1 based on user input for selecting the washing course of the washing machine 1. The controller 500 may start or stop a washing process, a rinsing process, and / or a spin-drying process based on user input through the start and / or stop buttons.

[0156] A variety of washing courses of the washing machine 1 may be provided. The various washing courses may be provided according to the type (e.g., bedding, underwear, etc.) and materials (e.g., cotton, wool, etc.) of laundry. For example, the washing course may include at least one of a standard washing course, intense washing course, delicate clothes washing course, bedding washing course, baby clothes washing course, towel washing course, boiling washing course, and / or outdoor clothes washing course.

[0157] Each of the washing courses may include different washing settings (e.g., washing temperature, a number of rinses, spin speed, etc.). According to a selection of one of the washing courses through the user interface 15 or an external user device, the controller 500 may control the washing machine 1 to perform a washing process, a rinsing process, and a spin-drying process according to the selected washing course. In addition, the washing course may include a rinsing and spin-drying course excluding a washing process, a rinsing course, and a spin-drying course. The washing courses are not limited to the above examples.

[0158] The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to output various information about the operation of the washing machine 1. For example, the user interface 15 may visually and / or audibly output information about the washing course, operation time, washing settings, rinsing settings, and / or drying settings of the washing machine 1. In addition, the user interface 15 may output information about a state of detergent accommodated in the detergent container 150.

[0159] The driving device 60 may rotate the drum 30 under the control of the controller 500. The driving device 60 may include a drive motor. The controller 500 may control the drive motor to adjust a rotation speed of the drum 30.

[0160] The controller 500 may control the opening and closing of the water supply valve 52. The controller 500 may adjust an opening degree of the water supply valve 52. The water supply valve 52 may open or close the water supply pipe 51 based on an electrical signal transmitted from the controller 500.

[0161] The controller 500 may control the opening and closing of the drain valve 56. The controller 500 may adjust an opening degree of the drain valve 56. The drain valve 56 may open or close the drain pipe 55 based on an electrical signal transmitted from the controller 500.

[0162] The drain pump 57 may discharge water in the tub 20 to the outside of the main body 10. The controller 500 may control the drain pump 57 to allow water in the tub 20 to be discharged to the outside through the drain pipe 55.

[0163] The communication interface 80 may include various communication circuitry for performing a wired communication and / or wireless communication with an external device (e.g., servers, user devices, and / or other home appliances). A user device may include various electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, smart watches, stationary type tablets, and speakers. A user input may be obtained not only through the user interface 15 but also through a user device.

[0164] The communication interface 80 may include at least one of short-range communication circuitry or long-range communication circuitry. The communication interface 80 may transmit data to or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication interface 80 may support cellular communication, wireless local area network (WLAN), home radio frequency (HomeRF), infrared communication, ultra-wide band (UWB) communication, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, and ad-hoc and / or Zigbee. The communication technologies supported by the communication interface 80 are not limited to the above.

[0165] The communication interface 80 may communicate with an external device through an access point (AP). The AP may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine 1 is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server is connected. The washing machine 1 may be connected to the server through the WAN.

[0166] The detergent container open / close sensor 90 may detect the opening and closing of the detergent container 150. The detergent container open / close sensor 90 may detect whether the detergent container 150 is inserted into the main body 10 or taken out from the main body 10. The detergent container open / close sensor 90 may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 to the controller 500. The controller 500 may determine the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 based on the electrical signal transmitted from the detergent container open / close sensor 90.

[0167] The magnetic field sensor 300 may detect a magnetic field generated by the floating device 200. The magnetic field sensor 300 may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the magnetic field of the floating device 200 to the controller 500. The controller 500 may determine the amount of liquid detergent in the detergent container 150 based on the electrical signal received from the magnetic field sensor 300. The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to output information about the remaining amount of detergent in the detergent container based on the electrical signal received from the magnetic field sensor 300.

[0168] The detergent pump 400 may move the liquid detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 to the mixing chamber 141. The controller 500 may selectively move the detergents accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 to the mixing chamber 141 based on the washing course and / or the user input. In addition, the controller 500 may sequentially move the detergents accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 to the mixing chamber 141.

[0169] The detergent detection electrode 430 may detect detergent in the detergent container 150. A plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 may be provided in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 of the detergent container 150. The controller 500 may apply current to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 and detect a voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. In a case where the detergent detection electrode 430 is in contact with detergent, the controller 500 may determine that detergent is present in the detergent container 150 based on the voltage being detected as a result of current applied to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0170] The controller 500 may determine an electrical conductivity of detergent by applying a current having a defined frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may provide information about a state of the detergent through the user interface 15 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent. The controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent. In addition, the controller 500 may determine the type of detergent based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0171] For example, the controller 500 may determine a first electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a first current having a first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may detect a first voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 according to the application of the first current. The controller 500 may determine the first electrical conductivity based on the first current and the first voltage.

[0172] The controller 500 may determine a second electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may detect a second voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 according to the application of the second current. The controller 500 may determine the second electrical conductivity based on the second current and the second voltage.

[0173] The first electrical conductivity of the detergent determined by applying the first current having the first frequency to the detergent detection electrodes 430 may vary depending on a concentration of the detergent. The controller 500 may determine the concentration of the detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent. The controller 500 may determine the detergent as laundry detergent or fabric softener based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0174] The concentration of liquid may represent the density, viscosity, or thinness of the liquid. In general, the concentration of laundry detergent and the concentration of fabric softener are significantly different, and the concentration of fabric softener is relatively low. In other words, the viscosity of fabric softener is relatively low.

[0175] In addition, the second electrical conductivity of the detergent determined by applying the second current having the second frequency to the detergent detection electrodes 430 may vary depending on an acidity of the detergent. The controller 500 may determine the acidity of the detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent. Laundry detergents may be classified into alkaline detergents, neutral detergents, and acidic detergents. In general, alkaline detergents or neutral detergents are used for washing clothes, depending on the type of fabric. The controller 500 may determine the detergent as an alkaline detergent, a neutral detergent, or an acidic detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0176] The first frequency and the second frequency may be determined variously depending on the design. The first frequency and the second frequency may be different from each other. The first frequency may be higher than the second frequency. For example, the first frequency may be 300 KHz, and the second frequency may be 10 Hz. In other words, the first frequency of the first current applied to the detergent detection electrodes 430 to determine the concentration of the detergent is different from the second frequency of the second current applied to the detergent detection electrodes 430 to determine the acidity of the detergent.

[0177] As described above, the detergent container 150 may include the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide information about whether the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber and the second chamber is laundry detergent or fabric softener.

[0178] The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a chamber selection notification to guide selection of one of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152, in a case where laundry detergent is accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent error notification, in a case where fabric softener is accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152.

[0179] The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent replenishment notification to notify detergent requires to be replenished based on a difference between the electrical conductivity (first electrical conductivity) and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value.

[0180] The controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 according to the difference between the electrical conductivity (first electrical conductivity) and the reference electrical conductivity. The controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 by adjusting a detergent supply time for supplying the detergent.

[0181] For example, in a case where the electrical conductivity is less than the reference electrical conductivity, the controller 500 may increase the detergent supply time to increase the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20. Conversely, in a case where the electrical conductivity is greater than the reference electrical conductivity, the controller 500 may decrease the detergent supply time to decrease the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0182] In a case where a washing process is required to be performed without replenishing the detergent despite the detergent replenishment notification provided, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20. The controller 500 may also adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20, based on the detergent not being replenished for a predetermined wait time after the detergent replenishment notification is provided.

[0183] A user may set whether to be provided with the detergent replenishment notification by operating the user interface 15 or the user device. In a case where the detergent replenishment notification is set to be disabled, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent, regardless of the provision of the detergent replenishment notification.

[0184] In addition, the controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent hardening notification to warn of detergent hardening, based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent being increased by a defined limit value over the reference electrical conductivity.

[0185] The controller 500 may reset the reference electrical conductivity based on the opening and closing of the detergent container 150. The controller 500 may determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent, which is determined for the first time after the detergent container 150 is opened and then closed, as the reference electrical conductivity. The controller 500 may identify the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 based on an electrical signal transmitted from the detergent container open / close sensor 90.

[0186] Information about a state of the detergent may include at least one of information about a concentration of the detergent, information about an acidity of the detergent, detergent replenishment notification, detergent error notification, detergent hardening notification, or chamber selection notification. The information about a state of the detergent may be provided through the user device as well as the user interface 15. The controller 500 may control the communication interface 80 to transmit the information about a state of the detergent to the user device.

[0187] FIG. 8 is a flowchart briefly illustrating a method for controlling a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 8, the controller 500 of the washing machine 1 may apply a current having a defined frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 (801). In FIG. 8, the defined frequency may correspond to the first frequency described above, and the current may correspond to the first current described above. In a case where detergent is present in the detergent container 150, the controller 500 may detect a voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may determine that detergent is present in the detergent container 150 based on detecting the voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0189] The controller 500 may determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent (802). The controller 500 may determine the electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the current applied to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 and the voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 (802). In FIG. 8, the electrical conductivity may correspond to the first electrical conductivity described above. The controller 500 may determine a concentration of the detergent corresponding to the electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0190] The controller 500 may perform at least one of providing information about a state of the detergent through the user interface 15 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent or adjusting the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 (803). The information about the state of the detergent and the adjusting the amount of the detergent are further described in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10.

[0191] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the method described in FIG. 8 in greater detail.

[0192] Operations 901 and 902 in FIG. 9 correspond to operations 801 and 802 in FIG. 8.

[0193] The controller 500 of the washing machine 1 may compare an electrical conductivity of detergent with a reference electrical conductivity (903). The controller 500 may obtain a difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity. The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent replenishment notification based on the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value (904).

[0194] In a case where the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is less than the reference value, the controller 500 may determine that a concentration of the detergent is normal and that the detergent replenishment notification is not required. In this case, the controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to output information indicating that the concentration of the detergent is normal.

[0195] The difference between the electrical conductivity and the reference electrical conductivity may indicate the amount of increase in the electrical conductivity or the amount of decrease in the electrical conductivity. An increase in the electrical conductivity of the detergent may indicate that moisture in the detergent has evaporated and the concentration of the detergent has increased. Conversely, a decrease in the electrical conductivity of the detergent may indicate that moisture has been absorbed into the detergent and the concentration of the detergent has decreased. In both cases where the detergent concentration has increased and where the detergent concentration has decreased, detergent replenishment is required.

[0196] The evaporation of moisture from the detergent or the absorption of moisture into the detergent may occur for various causes. For example, in a case where the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 are not sealed by the detergent container cover 130, the evaporation of moisture from the detergent or the absorption of moisture into the detergent may occur. Moisture may also be absorbed into the detergent due to the residual moisture after washing the detergent container 150.

[0197] In a case where the concentration of the detergent increases, the detergent requires to be replenished to reduce the concentration of the detergent. In a case where the amount of relatively high concentration detergent is the same as the amount of detergent with a normal range concentration, the high concentration detergent contains more washing ingredients. Using the high concentration detergent in a washing process may cause an excessive amount of washing ingredients to enter the tub 20, which may remain on the laundry after the washing process is completed.

[0198] In a case where the concentration of the detergent decreases, the detergent requires to be replenished to increase the concentration of the detergent. In a case where the amount of relatively low concentration detergent is the same as the amount of detergent with a normal range concentration, the low concentration detergent contains less washing ingredients. Accordingly, using the low concentration detergent in the washing process may result in an incomplete washing. In other words, an washing effect by the detergent may be reduced.

[0199] In order to maintain the concentration of the detergent appropriately, the washing machine 1 may notify a user that detergent requires to be replenished.

[0200] The controller 500 of the washing machine 1 may identify whether detergent in the detergent container 150 has been replenished (905). Whether detergent has been replenished may be identified by various methods. For example, the controller 500 may determine that detergent has been replenished based on identifying the opening and closing of the detergent container 150. As another example, the controller 500 may determine that detergent has been replenished based on a decrease in an intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300. As described above, when detergent is replenished, the floating device 200 rises and the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensor 300 decreases.

[0201] In a case where the detergent is replenished, the controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to stop displaying the detergent replenishment notification. For example, the detergent replenishment notification displayed through the user interface 15 may no longer be displayed as the detergent is replenished.

[0202] In a case where the detergent is replenished, the controller 500 may determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying current to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 again. That is, the controller 500 may periodically monitor the electrical conductivity of the detergent. The controller 500 may determine the electrical conductivity of the detergent at predetermined intervals.

[0203] In a case where the detergent is not replenished, the controller 500 may adjust a detergent supply time according to a difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity (906). That is, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0204] The controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20, in a case where a washing process is required to be performed without replenishing the detergent. The controller 500 may also adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20, based on the detergent not being replenished for a predetermined wait time after the detergent replenishment notification is provided.

[0205] A user may set whether to be provided with the detergent replenishment notification by operating the user interface 15 or the user device. In a case where the detergent replenishment notification is set to be disabled, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent, regardless of the provision of the detergent replenishment notification.

[0206] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of adjusting a detergent supply time described in FIG. 9 in greater detail.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 10, in a case where the detergent is not replenished (No in operation 905) even though the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to the defined reference value, the controller 500 may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20. In FIG. 10, non-replenishment of the detergent is exemplified as a precondition for adjusting the amount of the detergent, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. That is, because the detergent replenishment notification may be set to be disabled, the controller 500 may also adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 in a case where the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to the defined reference value (Yes in operation 903).

[0208] In a case where the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to the defined reference value and the electrical conductivity of the detergent is less than the reference electrical conductivity (No in operation 1001), the controller 500 may increase the detergent supply time (1002). As the detergent supply time increases, the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 may increase. In a case where the concentration of the detergent is relatively low, the washing machine 1 may prevent a decrease in the washing effect by increasing the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0209] In a case where the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to the defined reference value and the electrical conductivity of the detergent is greater than the reference electrical conductivity (Yes in operation 1001), the controller 500 may reduce the detergent supply time (1003). As the detergent supply time is reduced, the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20 may be reduced. In a case where the concentration of the detergent is relatively high, the washing machine 1 may prevent excessive washing ingredients from entering the tub 20 by reducing the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub 20.

[0210] As long as there is a difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity, the electrical conductivity of the detergent cannot be the same as the reference electrical conductivity. Accordingly, in FIG. 10, a case where the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity are the same is not considered.

[0211] In a case where moisture evaporation from the detergent continues, the electrical conductivity of the detergent may continue to increase. In a case where moisture evaporation from the detergent continues, the detergent may harden. The hardened detergent may not be put into the tub 20 when the detergent requires to be put in.

[0212] The controller 500 may identify whether the difference between the electrical conductivity of the detergent and the reference electrical conductivity is greater than or equal to a limit value (1004). The controller 500 may control the user interface 15 to provide a detergent hardening notification to warn of the detergent hardening based on the electrical conductivity of the detergent being increased by the defined limit value over the reference electrical conductivity (1005). In addition, the controller 500 may stop the operation of the washing machine 1 at the same time as the detergent hardening notification. By stopping the operation of the washing machine 1, the washing process may be prevented from being performed without detergent.

[0213] The limit value used to determine whether the detergent is hardened may be greater than the reference value used to determine whether the detergent requires to be replenished.

[0214] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of determining the reference electrical conductivity and determining the type of detergent described in FIG. 9.

[0215] Referring to FIG. 11, the controller 500 may detect whether the detergent container 150 is opened and closed (1101). In a case where the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 is not detected, the controller 500 may determine that detergent is not added to the detergent container 150. Accordingly, the controller 500 may apply a current having a defined frequency to the detergent detection electrodes 430 to determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent remaining in the detergent container 150 (901).

[0216] In response to detecting the opening and closing of the detergent container 150, the controller 500 may reset the reference electrical conductivity (1102). In a case where the opening and closing of the detergent container 150 is detected, the controller 500 may determine that detergent has been added to the detergent container 150. Because detergent is newly added to the detergent container 150, the concentration of the detergent in the detergent container 150 may change. Accordingly, the reference electrical conductivity that serves as a criterion for determining the change in detergent concentration is required to be newly determined.

[0217] The controller 500 may determine a first electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a first current having a first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 (1103). The controller 500 may detect a first voltage between the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430 according to the application of the first current. The controller 500 may determine the first electrical conductivity based on the first current and the first voltage.

[0218] In a case where the first electrical conductivity of the detergent is less than a defined threshold value (No in operation 1104), the controller 500 may determine that the detergent in the detergent container 150 is fabric softener (1105). Conversely, the controller 500 may determine that the detergent in the detergent container 150 is laundry detergent (1106), in a case where the first electrical conductivity of the detergent is greater than or equal to the defined threshold value (Yes in operation 1104).

[0219] The concentration of liquid may represent the density, viscosity, or thinness of the liquid. In general, the concentration of laundry detergent and the concentration of fabric softener are significantly different, and the concentration of fabric softener is relatively low. In other words, the viscosity of fabric softener is relatively low.

[0220] However, the detergent for infants may have a relatively low concentration despite being laundry detergent. The concentration of the detergent for infants may be similar to that of fabric softener. Accordingly, in the case of the detergent for infants, a user is required to separately input the type of detergent through the user interface 15 or the user device.

[0221] After determining the detergent as laundry detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent, the controller 500 of the washing machine 1 may determine a second electrical conductivity of the detergent (1107). The controller 500 may determine the second electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430. The controller 500 may determine an acidity of the detergent corresponding to the second electrical conductivity of the detergent (1108).

[0222] Laundry detergents may be classified into alkaline detergents, neutral detergents, and acidic detergents. In general, alkaline detergents or neutral detergents are used for washing clothes, depending on the type of fabric. The controller 500 may determine the detergent as an alkaline detergent, a neutral detergent, or an acidic detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0223] The controller 500 may determine the first electrical conductivity of the detergent, determined for the first time after the detergent container 150 is opened and closed, as the reference electrical conductivity (1109). That is, the first electrical conductivity of the detergent determined immediately after the detergent is added to the detergent container 150 may correspond to the reference electrical conductivity. Thereafter, the controller 500 may determine the change in detergent concentration by comparing the first electrical conductivity detected periodically with the reference electrical conductivity.

[0224] FIG. 12 is a graph showing electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent concentrations.

[0225] As described above, the washing machine 1 may determine the electrical conductivity of the detergent in the detergent container 150, and may distinguish whether the detergent is laundry detergent or fabric softener based on the determined electrical conductivity. The electrical conductivity shown in the graph 1200 of FIG. 12 corresponds to the first electrical conductivity determined by applying the first current having the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0226] Referring to the graph 1200 of FIG. 12, different detergents may exhibit different electrical conductivities. For example, D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, and D8 are laundry detergents produced by different manufacturers. S1, S2, and S3 are fabric softeners produced by different manufacturers.

[0227] In general, the concentration of laundry detergent and the concentration of fabric softener are significantly different, and the concentration of fabric softener is relatively low. In other words, the viscosity of fabric softener is relatively low. As shown in the graph 1200 of FIG. 12, the electrical conductivities of laundry detergents D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, and D8 may all be greater than a defined threshold value EC_th. The electrical conductivities of fabric softeners S1, S2, and S3 may all be less than the defined threshold value EC_th. The unit of electrical conductivity may be expressed as [uS / cm].

[0228] As such, the washing machine 1 may automatically identify the type of detergent by detecting the electrical conductivity, which is a unique property of the detergent in the detergent container 150.

[0229] FIG. 13 is a graph showing first electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent concentrations and second electrical conductivities corresponding to various detergent acidities.

[0230] Referring to a graph 1300 of FIG. 13, the horizontal axis represents the first electrical conductivity described in the graph 1200 of FIG. 12. The vertical axis represents the second electrical conductivity determined by applying the second current having the second frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0231] As described above, the washing machine 1 may determine the second electrical conductivity of the detergent, after determining that the detergent is laundry detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent. The washing machine 1 may distinguish the sub-types of the laundry detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0232] Laundry detergents may be classified into alkaline detergents, neutral detergents, and acidic detergents. Alkaline detergents or neutral detergents are generally used for washing clothes, depending on the type of fabric. The washing machine 1 may determine the detergent as an alkaline detergent, a neutral detergent, or an acidic detergent based on the second electrical conductivity of the detergent.

[0233] As shown in the graph 1300 of FIG. 13, the second electrical conductivity of each detergent corresponding to D1, D2, D4, D5, D6, D7, and D8 is all lower than EC1. D1, D2, D4, D5, D6, D7, and D8 may all correspond to alkaline detergents. On the other hand, the second electrical conductivity of the detergent corresponding to D3 is greater than EC1 and lower than EC2. D3 may correspond to a neutral detergent. “W” represents water. As such, the higher the acidity of the detergent, the higher the second electrical conductivity of the detergent may appear.

[0234] As described above, the washing machine 1 may distinguish the type of detergent as laundry detergent or fabric softener, and may distinguish the sub-types of the laundry detergent by applying currents having different frequencies to the detergent detection electrodes 430.

[0235] FIG. 14 is a table illustrating example information provided for a detergent accommodated in a plurality of chambers of a detergent container.

[0236] Referring to a table 1400 of FIG. 14, the washing machine 1 may provide various information about detergent through the user interface 15. The information about detergent may be provided through a user device as well as through the user interface 15.

[0237] As described above, the detergent container 150 may include the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The washing machine 1 may provide information about the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. The first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 may accommodate laundry detergent or fabric softener.

[0238] In a case 1, laundry detergent is accommodated in the first chamber 151 and fabric softener is accommodated in the second chamber 152. In this case, the washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent in the first chamber 151 is laundry detergent. In addition, the washing machine 1 may determine an acidity of the laundry detergent accommodated in the first chamber 151. The washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent accommodated in the second chamber 152 is fabric softener. Accordingly, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in the first chamber 151, i.e., that the detergent is laundry detergent and an acidity of the laundry detergent. In addition, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in the second chamber 152, i.e., that the detergent is fabric softener. The washing machine 1 may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the laundry detergent in the first chamber 151 to be added to the tub 20 during a washing process, and may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the fabric softener in the second chamber 152 to be added to the tub 20 during a rinsing process.

[0239] In a case 2, laundry detergent is accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. In this case, the washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 is laundry detergent, and may determine an acidity of the laundry detergent accommodated in each chamber. Accordingly, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152, i.e., that the detergent is laundry detergent and the acidity of the laundry detergent. In addition, the user interface 15 may provide a chamber selection notification to guide a selection of one of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. That is, the washing machine 1 may guide a user to select laundry detergent to be used for the washing process. The washing machine 1 may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the laundry detergent accommodated in the chamber selected by the user to be added to the tub 20 during the washing process.

[0240] In a case 3, fabric softener is accommodated in the first chamber 151 and laundry detergent is accommodated in the second chamber 152. In this case, the washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent in the first chamber 151 is fabric softener. The washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent in the second chamber 152 is laundry detergent. In addition, the washing machine 1 may determine an acidity of the laundry detergent accommodated in the second chamber 152. Accordingly, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in the first chamber 151, i.e., that the detergent is fabric softener. In addition, the user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent in the second chamber 152, i.e., that the detergent is laundry detergent and the acidity of the laundry detergent. The washing machine 1 may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the laundry detergent in the second chamber 152 to be added to the tub 20 during the washing process, and may control the detergent pump 400 to allow the fabric softener in the first chamber 151 to be added to the tub 20 during the rinsing process.

[0241] In a case 4, fabric softener is accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152. In this case, the washing machine 1 may identify that the detergent accommodated in both the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152 is fabric softener. The user interface 15 may provide information about the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber 151 and the second chamber 152, i.e., that the detergent is fabric softener. In addition, the user interface 15 may provide a detergent error notification. The detergent error notification may allow the user to recognize that no laundry detergent is present in the detergent container 150.

[0242] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a washing machine may include: a tub; a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub; a plurality of detergent detection electrodes configured to detect the detergent in the detergent container; a user interface configured to provide information about the washing machine; and a controller configured to be electrically connected to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes and the user interface. The controller may be configured to determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a current having a defined frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes, and perform at least one of providing information about a state of the detergent through the user interface or adjusting an amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub based on the electrical conductivity.

[0243] The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide a detergent replenishment notification indicating that the detergent requires to be replenished, based on a difference between the electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value.

[0244] The controller may be configured to adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub according to a difference between the electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity.

[0245] The controller may be configured to adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub by adjusting a detergent supply time for supplying the detergent.

[0246] The controller may be configured to increase the detergent supply time to increase the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the electrical conductivity being less than the reference electrical conductivity. The controller may be configured to decrease the detergent supply time to decrease the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the electrical conductivity being greater than the reference electrical conductivity.

[0247] The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide a detergent hardening notification to warn of detergent hardening, based on the electrical conductivity being increased by a defined limit value over a reference electrical conductivity.

[0248] The controller may be configured to reset the reference electrical conductivity based on detecting opening and closing of the detergent container.

[0249] The controller may be configured to determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent, which is determined for the first time after the detergent container is opened and closed, as the reference electrical conductivity.

[0250] The defined frequency may be a first frequency, the current may be a first current, and the electrical conductivity may be a first electrical conductivity. The controller may be configured to determine a concentration of the detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent, and determine an acidity of the detergent based on a second electrical conductivity of the detergent determined by applying a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes.

[0251] The controller may be configured to determine the detergent as laundry detergent or fabric softener based on the concentration of the detergent.

[0252] The detergent container may include a first chamber and a second chamber. The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide information about whether the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber and the second chamber is the laundry detergent or the fabric softener.

[0253] The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide a chamber selection notification to guide a selection of one of the first chamber and the second chamber, in a case where the laundry detergent is accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0254] The controller may be configured to control the user interface to provide a detergent error notification, in a case where the fabric softener is accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0255] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, in a method for controlling a washing machine including a tub, a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent, and a plurality of detergent detection electrodes configured to detect the detergent in the detergent container, the method may include: determining an electrical conductivity of the detergent by applying a current having a defined frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes; and performing at least one of providing information about a state of the detergent through a user interface or adjusting an amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub based on the electrical conductivity.

[0256] The providing of the information about the state of the detergent may include providing a detergent replenishment notification indicating that the detergent requires to be replenished, based on a difference between the electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value.

[0257] The amount of detergent may be adjusted according to a difference between the electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity.

[0258] The adjusting of the amount of detergent may be performed by adjusting a detergent supply time for supplying the detergent.

[0259] The adjusting of the amount of detergent may include: increasing the detergent supply time to increase the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the electrical conductivity being less than the reference electrical conductivity; and decreasing the detergent supply time to decrease the amount of detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the electrical conductivity being greater than the reference electrical conductivity.

[0260] The providing of the information about the state of the detergent may include providing a detergent hardening notification to warn of detergent hardening, based on the electrical conductivity being increased by a defined limit value over a reference electrical conductivity.

[0261] The defined frequency may be a first frequency, the current may be a first current, and the electrical conductivity may be a first electrical conductivity. The method may further include determining a concentration of the detergent based on the first electrical conductivity of the detergent, and determining an acidity of the detergent based on a second electrical conductivity of the detergent determined by applying a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to the plurality of detergent detection electrodes.

[0262] According to the disclosure, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may detect changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container and provide a detergent replenishment notification based on the change in detergent concentration. In addition, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may adjust the amount of detergent to be supplied to a tub according to changes in concentration of detergent in a detergent container. Through the above, the washing machine may minimize changes in washing performance due to the changes in detergent concentration.

[0263] According to the disclosure, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may automatically identify the type of detergent in each of a plurality of chambers forming a detergent container and provide information about the detergent in each of the chambers. In addition, the washing machine and the method for controlling the same may automatically control operation of a detergent pump depending on the type of detergent accommodated in each of the chambers, and thus user convenience may be improved.

[0264] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program codes, and when executed by a processor, the instructions may create a program module to perform operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0265] The computer-readable recording medium may include all kinds of recording media storing instructions that can be interpreted by a computer. For example, the computer-readable recording medium may be read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a magnetic tape, a magnetic disc, a flash memory, an optical data storage device, etc.

[0266] Also, the computer-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium, wherein the term ‘non-transitory storage medium’ simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium. For example, a ‘non-transitory storage medium’ may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0267] According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a method according to various embodiments of the disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or be distributed (e.g., downloadable or uploadable) online via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or between two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly. When distributed online, at least part of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored in the machine-readable storage medium, such as a memory of the manufacturer's server, a server of the application store, or a relay server.

[0268] Although embodiments of the disclosure have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, a person having ordinary skilled in the art will appreciate that other specific modifications may be easily made without departing from the technical spirit or essential features of the disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting in all aspects.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0041]Various embodiments of the disclosure and terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the corresponding embodiments.

[0042]In describing of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related elements.

[0043]The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items unless clearly indicated otherwise in a related context.

[0044]In the disclosure, phrases, such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one or all possible combinations of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among the phrases.

[0045]As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0046]Terms such as “1st”, “2nd”,...

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising:a tub;a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub;a plurality of electrodes in the detergent container;a user interface configured to provide information to a user; anda controller configured to, with detergent accommodated in the detergent container:apply a current having a defined frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes,detect a voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes,determine an electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected voltage, andprovide, based on the determined electrical conductivity, information about a state of the detergent through the user interface and / or adjust an amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub.

2. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, provide, based on a difference between the determined electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value, a detergent replenishment notification through the user interface indicating that replenishment of the detergent is required.

3. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, adjust the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub based on a difference between the determined electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity.

4. The washing machine of claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, adjust the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub by adjusting a detergent supply time for supplying the detergent to the tub.

5. The washing machine of claim 4, whereinthe controller is further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container:increase the detergent supply time to increase the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the determined electrical conductivity being less than the reference electrical conductivity, anddecrease the detergent supply time to decrease the amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub, in response to the determined electrical conductivity being greater than the reference electrical conductivity.

6. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, provide, based on the determined electrical conductivity being increased by a defined limit value over a reference electrical conductivity, a detergent hardening notification through the user interface to warn that the detergent is hardened.

7. The washing machine of claim 2, whereinthe controller is further configured to:detect an opening and closing of the detergent container, andset the reference electrical conductivity based on the opening and closing of the detergent container being detected.

8. The washing machine of claim 2, whereinthe controller is further configured to:detect an opening and closing of the detergent container set the reference electrical conductivity to the electrical conductivity determined after the detergent container is opened and closed.

9. The washing machine of claim 1, whereinthe defined frequency is a first frequency, the current is a first current, the detected voltage is a first voltage, and the determined electrical conductivity is a first electrical conductivity, andthe controller is further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container:determine a concentration of the detergent based on the first electrical conductivity,apply a second current having a second frequency different from the first frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes,detect a second voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes,determine a second electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected second voltage, anddetermine an acidity of the detergent based on the determined second electrical conductivity.

10. The washing machine of claim 9, wherein the controller is further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the detergent container, determine whether the detergent is laundry detergent or fabric softener based on the determined concentration.

11. The washing machine of claim 10, whereinthe detergent container includes a first chamber and a second chamber, andthe controller is further configured to, with the detergent accommodated in the first chamber and the second chamber, provide information through the user interface about whether the detergent accommodated in each of the first chamber and the second chamber is laundry detergent or fabric softener.

12. The washing machine of claim 11, wherein the controller is further configured to provide a chamber selection notification through the user interface to guide a selection of one of the first chamber and the second chamber, in response to the laundry detergent being accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

13. The washing machine of claim 11, wherein the controller is further configured to provide a detergent error notification through the user interface in response to the fabric softener being accommodated in both the first chamber and the second chamber.

14. A method for controlling a washing machine including a tub, a detergent container configured to accommodate detergent to be supplied to the tub, a plurality of electrodes in the detergent container, and a user interface configured to provide information to a user, the method comprising:with detergent accommodated in the detergent container,applying a current having a defined frequency to electrodes of the plurality of electrodes,detecting a voltage between electrodes of the plurality of electrodes,determining an electrical conductivity of the detergent based on the detected voltage, andproviding, based on the determined electrical conductivity, information about a state of the detergent through the user interface and / or adjusting an amount of the detergent to be supplied to the tub.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the providing includes providing, based on a difference between the determined electrical conductivity and a reference electrical conductivity being greater than or equal to a defined reference value, a detergent replenishment notification indicating that replenishment of the detergent is required.

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