Washing machine and controlling method thereof

Abstract

A washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes a motor configured to rotate a drum, a current sensor configured to sense currents flowing in the motor, a vibration sensor configured to sense vibrations of the drum, memory, including one or more storage media, storing instructions, and at least one processor, including processing circuitry, communicatively coupled to the motor, the current sensor, the vibration sensor, and the memory, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to rotate the motor at a first rotation speed, for a dehydration cycle of wash targets included in the drum, obtain an unbalance value corresponding to an unbalance level of the wash targets based on currents sensed through the current sensor while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed, rotate, based on the unbalance value not exceeding an unbalance limit value, the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed, obtain a vibration value of the drum by using the vibration sensor while the motor is rotated at the second rotation speed, and update the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum, corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application is a continuation application, claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. § 365(c), of an International application No. PCT / KR2026 / 000275, filed on Jan. 6, 2026, which is based on and claims the benefit of a Korean patent application number 10-2025-0009247, filed on Jan. 22, 2025, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entiretyBACKGROUND1. Field

[0002] The disclosure relates to a washing machine and a controlling method thereof. More particularly, the disclosure relates to a washing machine updating an unbalance limit value and a controlling method thereof.2. Description of Related Art

[0003] Washing machines are devices that wash targets, such as clothes, towels, bedding and the like. A washing machine may wash targets in various steps. In the case where the wash targets are not distributed uniformly at a time when the washing machine performs a dehydration cycle, vibrations or noises may be generated in the dehydration process. To prevent this from happening, the manufacturer may control the magnitude of vibrations or noises based on an unbalance limit value. However, the unbalance limit value is a value that is set at a time of manufacturing, and set without considering the feature that even washing machines of the same model have different capabilities.

[0004] The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with regard to the disclosure.SUMMARY

[0005] Aspects of the disclosure are to address at least the above-mentioned problems and / or disadvantages and to provide at least the advantages described below. Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure is to provide a washing machine updating an unbalance limit value and a controlling method thereof.

[0006] Additional aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

[0007] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, a washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes a motor configured to rotate the drum, a current sensor configured to sense currents flowing in the motor, a vibration sensor configured to sense vibrations of the drum, memory, including one or more storage media, storing instructions, and at least one processor, including processing circuitry, communicatively coupled to the motor, the current sensor, the vibration sensor, and the memory, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to rotate the motor at a first rotation speed, for a dehydration cycle of wash targets included in the drum, obtain an unbalance value corresponding to an unbalance level of the wash targets based on currents sensed through the current sensor while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed, rotate, based on the unbalance value not exceeding an unbalance limit value, the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed, obtain a vibration value of the drum by using the vibration sensor while the motor is rotated at the second rotation speed, and update the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum, corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

[0008] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a method of controlling a washing machine is provided. The method includes rotating a motor configured to rotate the drum at a first rotation speed, for a dehydration cycle of wash targets included in the drum, obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to an unbalance level of the wash targets based on currents sensed through a current sensor configured to sense currents flowing in the motor while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed, rotating, based on the unbalance value not exceeding an unbalance limit value, the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed, obtaining a vibration value of the drum by using a vibration sensor configured to sense vibrations of the drum while the motor is rotated at the second rotation speed, and updating the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum, corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

[0009] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media storing one or more computer programs including computer-executable instruction that, when executed by one or more processors of a washing machine including a drum individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to perform operations are provided. The operations include rotating a motor configured to rotate the drum at a first rotation speed, for a dehydration cycle of wash targets included in the drum, obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to an unbalance level of the wash targets based on currents sensed through a current sensor configured to sense currents flowing in the motor while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed, rotating, based on the unbalance value not exceeding an unbalance limit value, the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed, obtaining a vibration value of the drum by using a vibration sensor configured to sense vibrations of the drum while the motor is rotated at the second rotation speed, and updating the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum, corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

[0010] Other aspects, advantages, and salient features of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses various embodiments of the disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the disclosure will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] FIG. 1 is a view provided to explain an exterior of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 2 is a view illustrating one example of a lateral cross section of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a specific configuration of the washing machine of FIG. 3, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a flowchart provided to explain one example of an operation in which a washing machine updates an unbalance limit value, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 6 is a view provided to explain a stage of a dehydration cycle, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0018] FIGS. 7A and 7B are views illustrating one example of a distribution of wash targets attached to the inner wall of the drum of a washing machine in a low-speed rotation stage, according to various embodiments of the disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 8 is a view illustrating one example of an operation in which a washing machine obtains an unbalance value in a low-speed rotation stage, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 9 is a view illustrating one example of a graph showing a relationship between an unbalance value and a vibration value, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 10 is one example of a graph showing a relationship between an unbalance value and a vibration value based on a different in the properties of washing machines, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 11 is a view provided to explain one example of an operation of updating an unbalance limit value of a washing machine corresponding to a first graph, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0023] FIG. 12 is a graph illustrating a distribution of unbalance values depending on a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0024] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0026] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0027] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a component surface” includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

[0028] In the disclosure, each of the 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 respectively denote including any one of the items listed together in the phrases or all possible combinations thereof.

[0029] The term “and / or” includes a combination of a plurality of stated relevant elements or any one of the plurality of stated relevant elements.

[0030] In the disclosure, a term, such as “1st”“2nd” or “first,” or “second” may be used merely to differentiate one element from another, but not to limit the elements in another aspect (e.g., importance or order).

[0031] Based on one element (e.g., a first element) referred to as being “coupled with / to or connected with / to” another element (e.g., a second element) with or without the term “functionally” or “communicatively”, it is to be understood that one element may be connected to another element directly (e.g., in a wired manner), wirelessly, or through yet another element (e.g., a third element).

[0032] In the disclosure, terms, such as “include,” or “have” and the like are used to indicate the presence of stated features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components or a combination thereof, and do not imply exclusion of the presence or addition of one or more different features, numbers, steps, operations, elements, components or a combination thereof.

[0033] Based on one element referred to as being “connected with / to,”“coupled with / to,”“supporting,” or “contacting” another element, it is to be understood that one element is connected with / to another element, is coupled with / to another element, supports another element, or contacts another element directly or indirectly through yet another element (e.g., a third element).

[0034] Based on one element referred to as being placed “on” another element, it is to be understood that one element contacts another element and that yet another element is present between the two elements.

[0035] A washing machine according to various embodiments may perform a wash, rinse, dehydration and dry cycles. The washing machine is an example of a clothing care device, and the clothing care device is a concept encompassing a device capable of washing clothes (wash targets, dry targets), a device capable of drying clothes, and a device capable of washing and drying clothes.

[0036] A washing machine according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a wash target insertion opening for inserting or withdrawing wash targets is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which a wash target insertion opening is provided to face forward. A washing machine according to various embodiments of the disclosure, may include a washing machine of a different loading method excluding the top-loading washing machine and the front-loading washing machine.

[0037] The top-loading washing machine may wash targets by using a water flow generated by a rotating body, such as a pulsator. The front-loading washing machine may wash targets by repeating a rise and fall of the wash targets based on rotation of a drum. The front-loading washing machine may include a washer dryer combo capable of drying wash targets accommodated in a drum. The washer dryer combo may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into a drum and a condensing device for removing moisture of air discharged from the hot air supplying device and the drum. As one example, the washer dryer combo may include a heat pump unit. A washing machine according to various embodiments may include another washing method-based washing machine in addition to the above washing method-based washing machine.

[0038] The washing machine according to the embodiments may include a housing accommodating various types of components. The housing may be provided in the form of a box that has a wash target insertion opening on one side thereof.

[0039] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the wash target insertion opening. The door may be rotatably mounted on the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or semi-transparent such that the inner portion of the housing is seen.

[0040] The washing machine may include a tub provided in the housing to reserve water. The tub may be provided in the form of an approximate cylinder that has a tub opening on one side thereof, and may be disposed in the housing such that the tub opening is disposed to correspond to the wash target insertion opening.

[0041] The tub may be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper may absorb vibrations generated at a time of rotation of the drum and attenuate vibrations delivered to the housing.

[0042] The washing machine may include a drum provided to accommodate wash targets.

[0043] As for the drum, a drum opening provided on one side of the drum may be disposed in the tub to correspond to the wash target insertion opening and the tub opening. The wash targets may pass through the wash target insertion opening, the tub opening and the drum opening sequentially to be accommodated in the drum or withdrawn from the drum.

[0044] A driving device may perform each operation in a wash, rinse and / or dehydration or dry cycles by rotating the drum forward or reversely.

[0045] 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 provided at the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected with an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may be extended from the external water supply source up to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub through the detergent supply device. Water may be supplied to the tub without transiting the detergent supply device.

[0046] The water supply valve may open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal of a controller. The water supply valve may allow or block a supply of water to the tub from the external water supply source. The water supply valve, for example, may include a solenoid valve opened and closed in response to an electrical signal.

[0047] The washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergents to the tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device causing the user to insert detergents to be used each time washing is performed, and an automatic detergent supply device storing large amounts of detergents and inserting a predetermined amount of detergents automatically at a time of washing. The detergent supply device may include a detergent container for storing detergents. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergents into the tub during a water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with detergents via the detergent supply device. The water mixed with the detergents may be supplied into the tub. Detergent may be used as a term including a detergent for pre-washing, a detergent for main washing, a fabric softener, a bleach and the like, and the detergent container may be partitioned into an area storing a detergent for pre-washing, an area storing a detergent for main washing, an area storing a fabric softener, and an area storing a bleach.

[0048] The washing machine may include a water discharge device configured to discharge water accommodated in the tub outward. The water discharge device may include a water discharge pipe extended from the lower portion of the tub up to the outer portion of the housing, a water discharge valve provided at the water discharge pipe to open and close the water discharge pipe, and a pump provided on the water discharge pipe. The pump may pump water of the water discharge pipe out of the housing.

[0049] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with an external device in a wired and / or wireless manner.

[0050] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0051] 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 sever and / or a user device and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0052] To this end, the communication module may assist with an establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and performance of communication through an established communication channel. According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a near field 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 the communication modules, a corresponding communication module may communicate with an external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a legacy cellular network, a fifth generation (5G) network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN))). Communication modules of these sorts may be integrated into one element (e.g., a single chip), or implemented as a plurality of separate elements (e.g., a plurality of chips).

[0053] The short-range communication module (short-range wireless communication module) may include a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a wireless LAN (WLAN) (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi direct (WFD) communication module, an ultrawideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module and the like, but not be limited thereto.

[0054] The long-range communication module may include various types of communication modules performing long-range communication, and include a mobile communication part. The mobile communicator may perform transmission and receipt of a wireless signal with at least one of a base station, an external terminal and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0055] As one example, the communication module may communicate with an external device, such as a server, a user device, another home appliance and the like through a peripheral access point (AP). The AP may connect a local area network (LAN) to which a washing machine or a user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server is connected. The washing machine or the user device may be connected to a server through a WAN.

[0056] The controller may control various types of elements (e.g., a driving motor, a water supply value) of the washing machine. The controller may control various types of elements of the washing machine to perform at least one of cycles including a water supply cycle, a wash cycle, a rinse cycle and / or a dehydration cycle and the like, based on a user input. For example, the controller may control the driving motor to control a rotation speed of the drum, or the water supply value of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0057] The controller may include hardware, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or memory and the like, and software, such as a control program and the like. For example, the controller may include an algorithm for controlling operations of the elements in the washing machine, at least one memory storing data in the form of a program, and at least one processor performing the above-described operations by using data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and processor may be respectively implemented as a separate chip. The processor may include one or two or more processor chips or one or two or more processing cores. The memory may include one or two or more memory chips or one or two or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory and processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0058] It should be appreciated that the blocks in each flowchart and combinations of the flowcharts may be performed by one or more computer programs which include computer-executable instructions. The entirety of the one or more computer programs may be stored in a single memory device or the one or more computer programs may be divided with different portions stored in different multiple memory devices.

[0059] Any of the functions or operations described herein can be processed by one processor or a combination of processors. The one processor or the combination of processors is circuitry performing processing and includes circuitry like an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphical processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) chip, a Bluetooth™ chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near field communication (NFC) chip, connectivity chips, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a finger-print sensor controller, a display drive integrated circuit (IC), an audio CODEC chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system on chip (SoC), an IC, or the like.

[0060] FIG. 1 is a view provided to explain an exterior of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 1, the washing machine 100 may include a housing 10 (or a cabinet) accommodating various types of components, therein. The housing 10 may be provided in the form of a box that has a wash target insertion opening on one side thereof.

[0062] The washing machine 100 may include a door 11 for opening and closing the wash target insertion opening. The door 11 may be rotatably mounted on the housing 10 by a hinge. At least a portion of the door 11 may be transparent or semi-transparent such that the inner portion of the housing 10 is seen.

[0063] The washing machine 100 may include a tub 20 provided in the housing 10 to reserve water. The tub 20 may be provided in the form of an approximate cylinder that has a tub opening on one side thereof, and disposed in the housing 10 such that the tub opening is disposed to correspond to the wash target insertion opening.

[0064] The tub 20 may be connected to the housing 10 by a damper. The damper may absorb vibrations generated at a time of rotation of a drum 30 and attenuate vibrations transferred to the housing 10.

[0065] The washing machine 100 may include a drum 30 provided to accommodate wash targets. The drum 30 may be disposed in the tub 20 such that a drum opening provided on one side of the drum 30 corresponds to the wash target insertion opening and the tub opening. The wash targets may pass through the wash target insertion opening, the tub opening and the drum opening sequentially to be accommodated in the drum 30, or withdrawn from the drum 30.

[0066] The drum 30 may perform each operation in a wash, rinse and / or dehydration cycle while rotating in the tub. A cylindrical wall of the drum 30 may have a plurality of through holes such that water stored in the tub 20 flows into the drum 30 or is discharged out of the drum 30.

[0067] The washing machine 100 may include a control panel 60 disposed on one side of the housing. The control panel 60 may provide a user interface for allowing the user and the washing machine to interact with each other. The user interface may include at least one input interface (e.g., an input interface 370 of FIG. 4) and at least one output interface (e.g., an output interface 380 of FIG. 4).

[0068] In the case where the washing machine 100 is a washer dryer combo, the washing machine 100 may perform washing and rinsing and then drying of wash targets.

[0069] Specifically, as a drying cycle starts, the washing machine 100 may control a motor (e.g., 330 of FIG. 3) such that the motor is in an on state. The motor may be referred to as a driving motor or a drum motor. The on state may denote a state in which predetermined driving currents are supplied to the motor.

[0070] Additionally, the washing machine 100 may supply hot air to the drum 30 by using a hot air supply device. The hot air supply device may be described as a heater.

[0071] Additionally, the washing machine 100 may be provided with a blower fan for generating a flow force of hot air. The hot air may dry wash targets while circulating the drum 30 and a flow path based on an operation of the motor driving the drum 30 and the blower fan at the same time.

[0072] FIG. 2 is a view illustrating one example of a lateral cross section of a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 2, a washing machine 100 may further include a housing (e.g., accommodated in a housing 10 of FIG. 1), a tub 120 (e.g., a tub 20 of FIG. 1), a drum 130 (e.g., a drum 30 of FIG. 1), a driver 140, a water supplier 150, a water discharger 160 and a detergent supplier 170. The washing machine 100 of FIG. 2 may be a washing machine of FIG. 1.

[0074] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the tub 120 may be provided in a cabinet 101, and accommodate water for washing and / or rinsing. The tub 120 may include tub front parts 121 having an opening at the front thereof, and tub rear parts 122 having a cylindrical shape with a closed rear surface. The tub front parts 121 may be provided with an opening for inserting wash targets into the drum 130 provided in the tub 120 or withdrawing wash targets from the drum 130, at the front thereof. The tub rear parts 122 may be provided with a bearing 122a for rotatably fixing a motor 141, on a rear wall thereof.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the drum 130 may be rotatably provided in the tub 120, and accommodate wash targets. The drum 130 may include a drum body 131 having a cylindrical shape, a drum front part 132 provided at the front of the drum body 131, and a drum rear part 133 provided at the rear of the drum body 131. A through hole 131a connecting the inner portion of the drum 130 and the inner portion of the tub 120, and a lifter 131b for lifting wash targets toward the upper portion of the drum 130 during rotation of the drum 130 may be provided on the inner surface of the drum body 131. The drum front part 132 may have an opening 132a for inserting wash targets into the drum 130 or withdrawing wash targets out of the drum 130. The drum rear part 133 may be connected with a shaft 141a of the motor 141 rotating the drum 130.

[0076] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the driver 140 may include a motor 141 rotating the drum 130. The motor 141 may be provided outside the tub rear part 122 of the tub 120, and may be connected with the drum rear part 133 of the drum 130 through the shaft 141a. The shaft 141a may penetrate the tub rear part 122, and may be rotatably supported by the bearing 122a provided at the tub rear part 122.

[0077] The motor 141 may be a stator 142 fixed to the outside of the tub rear part 122, and a rotor 143 rotatably provided and connected with the shaft 141a. The rotor 143 may be rotated based on a magnetic interaction with the stator 142, and rotation of the rotor 143 may be transferred to the drum 130 through the shaft 141a.

[0078] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the water supplier 150 may supply water to the tub 120 / drum 130. The water supplier 150 may include a water supply conduit 151 connected with an external water supply source to supply water to the tub 120, and a water supply valve 152 provided on the water supply conduit 151. The water supply conduit 151 may be provided on the upper side of the tub 120, and extended from the external water supply source up to a detergent container 171. Water may be guided up to the tub 120 through the detergent container 171. The water supply valve 152 may allow or block a supply of water to the tub 120 from the external water supply source in response to an electrical signal. The water supply valve 152, for example, may include a solenoid valve that is opened and closed in response to an electrical signal.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the water discharger 160 may discharge water accommodated in the tub 120 and / or drum 130 outward. The water discharger 160 includes a water discharge conduit 161 provided on the lower side of the tub 120 and extended from the tub 120 up to the outer portion of the cabinet 101, and a water discharge pump 162 provided on the water discharge conduit 161. The water discharge pump 162 may pump water of the water discharge conduit 161 out of the cabinet 101.

[0080] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the detergent supplier 170 may supply detergents to the tub 120 / drum 130. The detergent supplier 170 may include a detergent container 171 provided on the upper side of the tub 120 and storing detergents, and a mixture conduit 172 connecting the detergent container 171 with the tub 120. The detergent container 171 may be connected with the water supply conduit 151, and water supplied through the water supply conduit 151 may be mixed with the detergents in the detergent container 171. A mixture of the detergents and the water may be supplied to the tub 120 through the mixture conduit 172.

[0081] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a washing machine according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 3, a washing machine 300 may include at least one processor 310 (hereafter, see a processor 310), at least one memory 320 (hereafter, see memory 320), a motor 330 and a sensor 340. The washing machine 300 illustrated in FIG. 3 may be the washing machine 100 of FIG. 1 or 2. The motor 330 may respectively be implemented substantially the same as the motor 141 of FIG. 3, and may perform the same function as the motor 141 of FIG. 3. Description of elements overlapping those described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 is avoided among the elements of the washing machine 300 of FIG. 3.

[0083] The processor 310 may control entire operations of the washing machine 300. Specifically, the processor 310 may be connected with each element of the washing machine 300 and control entire operations of the washing machine 300. For example, the processor 310 may be electrically connected with the sensor 340 and the memory 320 to control the operations of the washing machine 300. The processor 310 may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a many integrated core (MIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a neural processing unit (NPU), a hardware accelerator or a machine learning accelerator. The processor 310 may control one of the other elements of the washing machine 300 or any combination thereof, and performing an operation in association with communication or perform data processing. The processor 310 may execute one or more programs or instructions stored in the memory (e.g., 110 of FIG. 2) of the washing machine 300. For example, the processor 310 may perform a method according to one embodiment of the disclosure, by executing one or more instructions stored in the memory 320.

[0084] In the case where the method according to one embodiment includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by one processor, or by multiple processors. For example, in the case where a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed based on the method according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the first operation, the second operation and the third operation may all be performed by a first processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by the first processor (e.g., a generic-purpose processor), while the third operation may be performed by a second processor (e.g., an AI-exclusive processor).

[0085] In the case where at least one processor 310 is implemented as a multicore processor, each of the multiple cores included in the multicore processor may include processor internal memory, such as cache memory, and on-chip memory, and common cache shared by the multiple cores may be included in the multicore processor. Additionally, each of the multiple cores (or part of the multiple cores) included in the multicore processor may read and perform a program instruction for implementing the method according to one embodiment independently, or in the way that all (or part) of the multiple cores are associated.

[0086] In the case where the method according to one embodiment includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by one of the multiple cores included in the multicore processor, or by the multiple cores included in the multicore processor. For example, in the case where a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed based on the method according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the first operation, the second operation and the third operation may all be performed by a first core included in the multicore processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by the first core included in the multicore processor, while the third operation may be performed by a second core included in the multicore processor.

[0087] In the embodiments of the disclosure, the processor may denote a system on a chip (SoC) where one or more processors and other electronic components are integrated, a single core processor, a multicore processor, or a core included in a single core processor or a multicore processor, and herein, the core may be implemented as a CPU, a GPU, an APU, an MIC, a DSP, an NPU, a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator and the like, but the embodiment thereof may not be limited thereto.

[0088] The memory 320 may include flash memory, hard disk, multimedia card micro, card-type memory (e.g., secure digital (SD) or extreme digital (XD) memory and the like), non-volatile memory including at least one of read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, an optical dick, and volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM) or static random access memory (SRAM).

[0089] Specifically, the memory 320 may store various types of software modules for the washing machine 300 to operate according to the embodiments of the disclosure, and the at least one processor 310 may execute various types of software modules stored in the memory 320 to control the operations of the washing machine 300. For example, the memory 320 may be accessed by the at least one processor 310, and the at least one processor 310 may perform reading / recording / correcting / deleting / updating and the like of data.

[0090] Meanwhile, the term of memory 320 in the disclosure may be used as term including memory 320, ROM in at least one processor 310, RAM or memory card (e.g., micro SD card, memory stick) mounted in the washing machine 300.

[0091] In addition, various types of information required within a range where the objectives of the disclosure can be achieved may be stored in the memory 320, and the information stored in the memory 320 may be updated based on receipt from an external device or a user input.

[0092] The motor 330 may be driven based on a driving control signal generated by the processor 310. The motor 330 may transfer a driving force of generating electric currents to the drum 130. The motor 330, for example, may include a brushless direct current motor (BLDC Motor) or a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) ensuring ease of control over a rotation speed.

[0093] The sensor 340 may include a current sensor 341 and a vibration sensor 342.

[0094] The current sensor 341 may be configured to sense currents flowing in the motor 330. An electrical signal associated with a current value of the motor 330, generated by the current sensor 341, may be transferred to the processor 310.

[0095] The vibration sensor 342 may be disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the drum 30 to sense vibrations of the drum 30. For example, the vibration sensor 342 may include an acceleration sensor or a displacement measuring sensor. The vibration sensor 342 may sense vibrations during rotation of the drum 30. As one example, the vibration sensor 342 may be an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor (or an inertial measurement device). The IMU sensor may be configured to measure an acceleration corresponding to a linear movement and an angular velocity corresponding to a rotational movement with respect to each of x, y and z axes.

[0096] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a specific configuration of the washing machine of FIG. 3, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 4, the washing machine 300 may include a processor 310, memory 320, a driver 325, a sensor 340, a water discharger 350, a water supplier 360, an input interface 370, an output interface 380 and a communication interface 390.

[0098] However, the above-described elements are described as an example, and when implementing the subject matter of the disclosure, new elements may certainly be added to the above elements or some of the elements may certainly be omitted. Meanwhile, among the elements illustrated in FIG. 4, detailed description of elements overlapping the elements illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3 is avoided.

[0099] The driver 325 may include a motor 330 and driving circuitry 335.

[0100] The driving circuitry 335 may supply driving currents for driving the motor 330 to the motor 330 in response to a driving signal of the processor 310. The driving circuitry 200 may include rectifier circuitry rectifying alternating current (AC) power of an external power source ES, direct current (DC) link circuitry removing ripples of rectified power and outputting direct current (DC) power, inverter circuitry converting DC power to driving power in the form of a sine wave and outputting driving currents Iabc to the motor 330, a current sensor 341 measuring driving currents Iabc supplied to the drum motor 330, a drive controller controlling conversion of driving power of the inverter circuitry, and a gate driver turning on / turning off switching circuitry Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, Q5, Q6 included in the inverter circuitry based on a driving signal of the drive controller. The driving circuitry 335 may supply driving currents to the motor 330 according to a motor control signal (e.g., a rotation speed instruction) of the processor 310.

[0101] The sensor 340 may include a current sensor 341, a vibration sensor 342, a speed sensor 343, a door sensor 344 and a temperature sensor 345.

[0102] The speed sensor 343 may sense a rotation speed, a rotation angle or a rotation direction of the motor 330 or the drum 30. As one example, while the motor 330 is being driven, the speed sensor 343 may sense a rotation speed of the motor through an electrical signal generated based on rotation of a magnet placed on the shaft (or axis) of the motor 330. As one example, the speed sensor 343 may use a method of measuring the magnitude of currents supplied to the motor 330 during rotation of the drum 30.

[0103] The door sensor 344 may identify whether the door 11 is opened or closed. As one example, the washing machine 300 may identify whether the door 11 is opened or closed by using a switch connected mechanically to the door 11.

[0104] The temperature sensor 345 may sense a temperature of an environment surrounding the washing machine 300, a temperature of the components in the washing machine 300, or a temperature of wash water in the tub 20. The temperature sensor 345, for example, may be implemented as a thermistor of which the resistance of a material changes with temperature.

[0105] In the case of a water discharger 350 may include a water discharge pipe extended from the lower portion of the tub 20 up to the outer portion of the housing 10, a water discharge valve provided at the water discharge pipe to open and close the water discharge pipe, and a water discharge pump provided on the water discharge pipe. For example, the water discharge pipe may guide water supplied to the tub 20 and used for a wash into a pump chamber. In the pump chamber, a water discharge pump may be provided, and the water discharge pump may pump water reserved in the pump chamber to discharge the water out of the housing 10 through the water discharge pipe.

[0106] The washing machine 100 may include a water supplier 360 configured to supply water to the tub 20.

[0107] The water supplier 360 may supply water supplied from an external water supply source to the tub 20. For example, the water supplier 360 may include a water supply pipe connected with an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may be extended from the external water supply source up to a detergent supply device.

[0108] The input interface 370 may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / dehydration setting button. The input interface 370, for example, 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 and the like.

[0109] The output interface 380 may deliver information on an operation of the washing machine 300 to the user visually or acoustically.

[0110] For example, the output interface 380 may deliver, to the user, information on a wash course and an operation time of the washing machine, wash setting / rinse setting / dehydration setting. The information on an operation of the washing machine may be output as a screen, an indicator, a voice and the like. The output interface 380, for example, may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker and the like.

[0111] The communication interface 390 may perform data communication with an electronic apparatus under the control of the processor 310. The electronic apparatus may include a server, a home appliance, a mobile device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet personal computer (PC), a wearable device and the like).

[0112] For example, the communication interface 390 may include communication circuitry capable of performing data communication between the washing machine 300 and an electronic apparatus, by using at least one of data communication methods including a wired LAN, a wireless LAN, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi direct, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Wi-Fi direct (WFD), infrared data association (IrDA), Bluetooth low energy (BLE), near field communication (NFC), wireless broadband Internet (Wibro), world interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), shared wireless access protocol (SWAP), wireless gigabit alliances (WiGig) and RF communication.

[0113] FIG. 5 is a flowchart provided to explain one example of an operation in which a washing machine updates an unbalance limit value, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0114] The processor 310 of the washing machine 300 may perform at least one of operations of FIG. 5. Instructions stored in the memory 320 of the washing machine 300, when executed by the processor 310 of the washing machine 300, may cause the washing machine 300 to perform the operations of FIG. 5.

[0115] In operation 510, the washing machine 300 may rotate the motor 330 at a first rotation speed for a dehydration cycle. The dehydration cycle may be divided into a plurality of stages based on a rotation speed of the drum 30. The first rotation speed may include a rotation speed (e.g., about 100 rpm) corresponding to a low-speed rotation stage in the dehydration cycle. The dehydration cycle is described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0116] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, while the motor 330 rotates the drum 30 at the first rotation speed, wash targets may be placed on the inner wall of the drum 30 because of an increase in the centrifugal force. For example, the wash targets may be attached onto the inner wall of the drum 30 and be rotated together with the drum 30. According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the driving circuitry 335 may supply driving currents to the motor 330 such that the motor 330 is rotated at the first rotation speed.

[0117] In operation 520, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain an unbalance value based on currents sensed through the current sensor 341 while the motor 330 is rotated at the first rotation speed.

[0118] In the disclosure, the unbalance value may denote a uniformity level in the distribution of wash targets attached onto the inner wall of the drum 30. According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain an unbalance value during rotation at the first rotation speed. As one example, an increase in the unbalance value means an un-uniform distribution of the wash targets attached onto the inner wall of the drum 30.

[0119] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the current sensor 341 may sense driving currents Iabc supplied to the motor 330. The washing machine 300 may obtain an unbalance value based on the driving currents.

[0120] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, while the drum 30 is rotated at the first rotation speed, the magnitude of currents supplied to the motor 330 rotating the drum 30 may be changed depending on placement of wash targets in the drum 30. Specifically, while the rotation speed of the motor 330 is changed, the driving circuitry 335 may change driving currents supplied to the motor 330 such that the rotation speed of the motor 330 follows a rotation speed instruction of the processor 310. For example, in the case where a sensed rotation speed of the motor 330 is less than a rotation speed instruction of the processor 310, the driving circuitry 335 may increase currents supplied to the motor 330, and in the case where a sense rotation speed of the motor 330 is equal to or greater than a rotation speed instruction of the processor 310, the driving circuitry 335 may decrease currents supplied to the motor 330.

[0121] In the case where a portion on which wash targets are concentrated is placed at the lower side of the drum 30, a higher torque may be required to rotate the drum 30, and accordingly, the rotation speed of the motor 330 may be decreased. On the contrary, in the case where a portion on which wash targets are less concentrated is disposed at the lower side of the drum 30, a lower torque may be require to rotate the drum 30, and accordingly, the rotation speed of the motor 330 may be increased. Thus, the magnitude of currents supplied to the motor of the drum 30 may be changed based on the placement of wash targets. At this time, a significant fluctuation in the magnitude of currents supplied to the motor 330 may denote a huge unbalance of wash targets placed on the inner wall of the drum 30.

[0122] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain an unbalance value based on a fluctuation of driving currents sensed through the current sensor 341. For example, the washing machine 300 may obtain a high unbalance value as a fluctuation of driving currents is increased, and may obtain a low unbalance value as a fluctuation of driving currents is decreased. The operation of obtaining an unbalance value is described with reference to FIG. 9.

[0123] In operation 530, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may identify whether the unbalance value exceeds an unbalance limit value.

[0124] The unbalance limit value may denote a reference value for controlling the distribution of wash targets attached onto the inner wall of the drum 30. In the case where wash targets are concentrated on one side, the drum 30 may be shaken severely or may cause strong vibrations while being rotated at a high speed. To prevent this from happening, the washing machine 300 may set an unbalance limit value. The unbalance limit value may be set at a time when the washing machine 300 is manufactured or used for the first time, and stored in the memory 320. The unbalance limit value may be determined based on a vibration value in a high-speed rotation stage. For example, in the case where a vibration value of the washing machine 300 in the high-speed rotation stage is controlled to a value equal to or less than a first vibration value (e.g., 3 mm), the unbalance limit value may be set to a first unbalance limit value (e.g., 70). The operation of determining an unbalance limit value based on a vibration value is described with reference to FIG. 9.

[0125] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may compare the unbalance value obtained in operation 520 with the unbalance limit value to control the rotation speed of the drum 30. For example, the unbalance value exceeding the unbalance limit value means that an unbalance level of wash targets exceeds a reference level, and accordingly, to relocate the wash targets, the washing machine 300 may decrease the rotation speed of the drum 30. For example, the unbalance value not exceeding the unbalance limit value means that wash targets are distributed uniformly on the inner wall of the drum 30, and accordingly, the washing machine 300 may increase the rotation speed of the drum 30 and proceed with a following stage.

[0126] In operations 530-Y and 540, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300, when identifying that the unbalance value exceeds the unbalance limit value, may change the rotation speed of the motor 330 to a third rotation speed less than the first rotation speed.

[0127] In operations 530-N and 550, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300, when identifying that the unbalance value does not exceed the unbalance limit value, may rotate the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed. The second rotation speed may include a rotation speed (e.g., about 1000 rpm) corresponding to a high-speed rotation stage in the dehydration cycle. For example, when identifying that the unbalance value does not exceed the unbalance limit value, the washing machine 300 may maintain the motor 330 at a rotation speed corresponding to an intermediate-speed rotation stage for a predetermined time, and then rotate the motor 330 at a rotation speed (e.g., a second rotation speed) corresponding to the high-speed rotation stage.

[0128] In operation 560, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain a vibration value (hereafter, referred to as an actual vibration value) of the drum 30 by using the vibration sensor 342 while the motor 330 is rotated at the second rotation speed. The vibration value of the drum 30 may include displacement of the drum 30. The washing machine 300 may identify displacement of the drum 30, sensed by using the vibration sensor 342, as an actual vibration value, while the motor 330 is rotated at the second rotation speed.

[0129] In operation 570, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum 30 corresponding to the actual vibration value and unbalance value.

[0130] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may identify a predicted vibration value from an unbalance value UB based on a relationship equation (e.g., Equation 1) indicating a relationship between the unbalance value and the predicted vibration value.V⁢ pre=a× UB+bEquation⁢ 1

[0131] (However, Vpe is a predicted vibration value, while UB is an unbalance value.)

[0132] Equation 1 is an equation for calculating a predicted vibration value from an unbalance value. At this time, information on values of a and b may be stored in the memory 320. The unbalance value and the predicted vibration value may have a linear relationship. The unbalance value and the predicted vibration value are described with reference to FIG. 9.

[0133] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value based on the predicted vibration value and actual vibration value. At a time when washing machines are manufactured, the motor of each of the washing machines has different capabilities (e.g., a counter electromotive force of the motor) and a different shaft system (e.g., a friction force between a driving shaft and a bearing), and accordingly, an error may occur between a predicted vibration value and an actual vibration value.

[0134] For example, in the case where the predicted vibration value is greater than the actual vibration value, the washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value by increasing the unbalance limit value based on a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value. For example, in the case where the predicted vibration value is less than the actual vibration value, the washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value by decreasing the unbalance limit value based on a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value.

[0135] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain an average value of the difference values while performing a dehydration cycle multiple times. The washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value based on the average value.UBL⁢ new=UBL⁢ old-(V⁢ real-V⁢ pre)×kEquation⁢ 2

[0136] (However, UBL new is an updated unbalance limit value, UBL old is an existing unbalance limit value, Vreal is an actual vibration value, Vpre is a predicted vibration value, and k is a predetermined constant.)

[0137] Equation 2 is an equation for updating an unbalance limit value. The predetermined constant k may include a value for modifying a scale between a difference value between a predicted vibration value and an actual vibration value, and an unbalance limit value. The predetermined constant may be determined as a proper constant, to prevent a rapid change in the actual vibration value, caused by a rapid change in the unbalance limit value. The predetermined constant, for example, may be equal to or greater than 0.1 and less than 0.5.

[0138] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain a value (hereafter, referred to as a first value) calculated by multiplying the difference value between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value by the predetermined constant k. According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may deduct the first value from an existing unbalance limit value. The washing machine 300 may identify a value calculated by deducting the first value from the existing unbalance limit value as an updated unbalance limit value.

[0139] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may identify whether the first value belongs to a predetermined range. The predetermined range may be determined as a proper range, to prevent a rapid change in the actual vibration value, caused by a rapid change in the unbalance limit value. The predetermined range, for example, may be determined as a 1% tolerance error range of the unbalance limit value. For example, in the case where the unbalance limit value is 70, the predetermined range may be determined as a first range (e.g., equal to or greater than −0.7 and equal to or less than 0.7). The specific constant and predetermined range may be set at a time of manufacturing or first-time use of a washing machine, or may be updated periodically or based on a user input.

[0140] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, in the case where the first value belongs to the predetermined range, the washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value. According to one embodiment of the disclosure, in the case where the first value belongs to the predetermined range, the washing machine 300, when performing a dehydration cycle multiple times, may obtain an average value of the first values. The washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

[0141] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value each time the washing machine performs the dehydration cycle, but not be limited thereto. For example, the washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value each time the washing machine 300 proceeds with the dehydration cycle predetermined times, or may update the unbalance limit value based on a user input.

[0142] FIG. 6 is a view provided to explain a stage of a dehydration cycle, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0143] The washing machine 300 may rotate the drum 30 to perform a wash, rinse and / or dehydration cycle. Herein, the dehydration cycle may denote a process in which the washing machine 300 rotates the drum 30 and removes water remaining in wash targets.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 6, the washing machine 300 may control the motor 330 to gradually increase the rotation speed of the drum 30 for the dehydration cycle. The dehydration cycle may be divided into a plurality of stages based on the rotation speed of the drum 30 rotating in the dehydration cycle. For example, the dehydration cycle of the washing machine 300 may include a low-speed rotation stage in which the rotation speed of the drum is increased up to a low rotation speed (e.g., equal to or greater than about 50 rpm and less than 200 rpm) and then maintained for a predetermined time, an intermediate-speed rotation stage in which the rotation speed of the drum is increased up to an intermediate rotation speed (e.g., equal to or greater than about 200 rpm and less than 600 rpm) and then maintained for a predetermined time, and a high-speed rotation stage in which the rotation speed of the drum is increased up to a high rotation speed (e.g., equal to or greater than about 800 rpm and less than 1400 rpm) and then maintained for a predetermined time. The rotation speed in each of the stages is not limited to the above examples, and may certainly be set at a time of manufacturing or first-time use of a washing machine 300, or may certainly be set or updated by the user.

[0145] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain an unbalance value based on driving currents sensed by using the current sensor 341, while maintaining the low rotation speed (e.g., a first rotation speed). For example, the washing machine 300 may obtain the unbalance value during a first time (e.g., a time from T1 to T2).

[0146] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain an actual vibration value by using the vibration sensor 342, while maintaining the high rotation speed (e.g., a second rotation speed). For example, the washing machine 300 may obtain the actual vibration value during a second time (e.g., from T5 to T6).

[0147] FIGS. 7A and 7B are views illustrating one example of a distribution of wash targets attached onto the inner wall of the drum of a washing machine in a low-speed rotation stage, according to various embodiments of the disclosure.

[0148] FIG. 7A is a view illustrating one example of a uniform distribution of wash targets onto the inner wall of the drum, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0149] FIG. 7A shows that wash targets are uniformly attached onto the inner wall of the drum 30. In this case, since there is no significant change in the magnitude of currents supplied to the motor 330 to rotate the drum 30, an unbalance value may be less than an unbalance value in the case where wash targets are un-uniformly attached onto the inner wall of the drum 30. Additionally, since an unbalance value and a vibration value have a linear relationship, a vibration value in the high-speed rotation stage may be less than a vibration value in the case where wash targets are un-uniformly attached onto the inner wall of the drum 30.

[0150] FIG. 7B is a view illustrating one example of an un-uniform distribution of wash targets onto the inner wall of the drum, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0151] FIG. 7B shows that wash targets are concentrated in one area of the inner wall of the drum 30. In this case, since there is a significant change in the magnitude of currents supplied to the motor 330 to rotate the drum 30, an unbalance value may be greater than an unbalance value in the case where wash targets are uniformly attached onto the inner wall of the drum 30. Additionally, since an unbalance value and a vibration value have a linear relationship, a vibration value in the high-speed rotation stage may be greater than a vibration value in the case where wash targets are uniformly attached onto the inner wall of the drum 30.

[0152] FIG. 8 is a view illustrating one example of an operation in which a washing machine obtains an unbalance value in a low-speed rotation stage, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0153] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may filter driving currents supplied to the motor 330 to obtain the unbalance value. The washing machine 300 may sense the magnitude of driving currents supplied to the motor 330 in the dehydration cycle by using the current sensor 341. The washing machine 300 may remove an unnecessary high-frequency component (e.g., a noise) of the driving currents. To remove a direct current (DC) component of the driving currents, the washing machine 300 may perform high-pass filtering on the driving currents. To obtain an absolute value of the driving currents, the washing machine 300 may perform full-wave rectification on the driving currents. The absolute value of the driving currents from which the high-frequency component and the DC component are removed may be shown on the graph (hereafter, a first graph) illustrated in 801 of FIG. 8.

[0154] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may perform low-pass filtering on the first graph, to identify a fluctuation of the driving currents. In the first graph, a low-frequency component of the driving currents may be shown on the graph (hereafter, a second graph) illustrated in 802 of FIG. 8.

[0155] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain an unbalance value based on the filtered currents (e.g., a second graph). For example, the washing machine 300 may obtain the unbalance value based on an average value of the currents filtered while the motor 330 is rotated at a low speed unbalance. As one example, the washing machine 300 may obtain an average value of the currents filtered in a first section (e.g., a time from first time T1 to second time T2). At this time, since the average value of the filtered currents is an analogue value, the washing machine 300 may convert the average value of the filtered currents to a digital value such that the average value is processed by the processor 310. The washing machine 300 may obtain the unbalance value in which the average value of the filtered currents is converted to the digital value unbalance.

[0156] FIG. 9 is a view illustrating one example of a graph showing a relationship between an unbalance value and a vibration value, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 9, the unbalance value may have a linear relationship with a vibration value. A graph indicating the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value may be obtained experimentally or empirically. For example, the washing machine 300 may perform the dehydration cycle multiple times. The washing machine 300 may obtain the unbalance value in a low-speed rotation stage, and may obtain the vibration value in a high-speed rotation stage, while performing the dehydration cycle multiple times.

[0158] A graph indicating a relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value may be obtained based on a plurality of unbalance values obtained while the washing machine 300 proceeds with the dehydration cycle multiple times, and a plurality of vibration values corresponding to each of the plurality of unbalance values. The graph showing the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value may correspond to Equation 1.

[0159] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 may obtain a predicted vibration value based on the graph indicating the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value. As one example, in the case where the unbalance value obtained by the washing machine in the low-speed rotation stage is 70, the predicted vibration value may correspond to 3 mm. Hereafter, the graph indicating the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value obtained experimentally or empirically is referred to as a “reference graph”. The washing machine 300 may store information on a graph indicating a relationship between an unbalance value at a time of first-time manufacturing or first-time use and a vibration value, information on Equation 1 (e.g., values of a, b) in the memory 320.

[0160] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the manufacturer may generate an unbalance limit value based on the graph indicating the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value. For example, in the case where the manufacturer wants to limit the vibration value of the washing machine 300 to 3 mm in the high-speed rotation stage, the manufacturer may generate the unbalance limit value of 70. An unbalance limit value determined for the first time may be stored in the memory 320 at a time of first-time manufacturing or first-time use.

[0161] FIG. 10 is one example of a graph showing a relationship between an unbalance value and a vibration value based on a different in the properties of washing machines according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0162] As described above, despite washing machines of the same model, the graph of the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value may vary depending on the properties (e.g., a property of a shaft system, a property of a motor and the like) of each of the washing machines.

[0163] For example, assume that the unbalance value in the low-speed rotation stage is a first value. A first graph is a graph showing that an actual vibration value in the high-speed rotation stage is greater than a vibration value (e.g., a predicted vibration value) corresponding to the reference graph. In this case, a washing machine corresponding to the first graph may generate a noise or vibration greater than that of a washing machine corresponding to the reference graph. Accordingly, the washing machine corresponding to the first graph may decrease an unbalance limit value based on a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value to update the unbalance limit value.

[0164] A second graph is a graph indicating that an actual vibration value is less than the vibration value corresponding to the reference graph. In this case, a washing machine corresponding to the second graph may decrease the rotation speed of the drum 30 to relocate wash targets even if it is not necessary. Accordingly, the washing machine corresponding to the second graph may increase an unbalance limit value based on a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value to update the unbalance limit value.

[0165] FIG. 11 is a view provided to explain one example of an operation of updating an unbalance limit value of a washing machine corresponding to a first graph, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 11, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, the washing machine 300 (hereafter, referred to as a first washing machine) corresponding to the first graph may decrease the unbalance limit value based on a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value. The operation of decreasing an unbalance limit value based on a difference value between a predicted vibration value and an actual vibration value is described above with reference to FIG. 5, and accordingly, overlapping details are not described.

[0167] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, the first washing machine 300 may update the unbalance limit value in a predetermined range. The predetermined range may be determined based on an unbalance limit value set at a time of manufacturing or first-time execution. For example, the first washing machine 300 may set the predetermined range such that the unbalance limit value is updated within a 10% range of an unbalance limit value set for the first time. As one example, in the case where the unbalance limit value set for the first time is 70, the predetermined range may be set to be equal to or greater than 63 and equal to or less than 77 that is in a 10% range of 70. Meanwhile, the predetermined range may not be limited to the above-described example and may be set based on a user input or a server and the like.

[0168] Meanwhile, FIG. 11 shows an example of the washing machine corresponding to the first graph, but certainly, a washing machine corresponding to a second graph may operate in the same way as the washing machine corresponding to the first graph.

[0169] FIG. 12 is a graph illustrating a distribution of unbalance values depending on a washing machine, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 12, the distribution of unbalance values may vary depending on properties of a washing machine. The unbalance limit value may be set with respect to a reference washing machine at a time of manufacturing.

[0171] For example, in the case of a washing machine (e.g., a first washing machine) having a distribution of unbalance values in the low-speed rotation stage less than a distribution of unbalance values of the reference washing machine, the first washing machine may update the unbalance limit value in the way that the first washing machine decreases the unbalance limit value while performing the dehydration cycle.

[0172] For example, in the case of a washing machine (e.g., a second washing machine) having a distribution of unbalance values in the low-speed rotation stage greater than a distribution of unbalance values of the reference washing machine, the second washing machine may update the unbalance limit value in the way that the second washing machine increases the unbalance limit value while performing the dehydration cycle.

[0173] The technical objectives of the disclosure are not limited to the above-described ones, and other technical objectives not described above may be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains.

[0174] As described above, the washing machine may compare a predicted vibration value obtained in the low-speed rotation stage with a reference vibration value and update the unbalance limit value, to control the vibrations and dehydration operation of the washing machine efficiently.

[0175] Effects produced according to the disclosure are not limited to the above-described ones, and other effects not described above may be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains.

[0176] As described above, the washing machine according to one embodiment may include a motor configured to rotate the drum, a current sensor configured to sense currents flowing in the motor, a vibration sensor configured to sense vibrations of the drum, memory storing instructions, and at least one processor including processing circuitry.

[0177] For example, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to rotate the motor at a first rotation speed for a dehydration cycle of wash targets included in the drum, obtain an unbalance value corresponding to an unbalance level of the wash targets based on currents sensed through the current sensor while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed, rotate, based on the unbalance value not exceeding an unbalance limit value, the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed, obtain a vibration value of the drum by using the vibration sensor while the motor is rotated at the second rotation speed, and update the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

[0178] For example, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to increase, based on the predicted vibration value being greater than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value to update the unbalance limit value, and decrease, based on the predicted vibration value being less than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value to update the unbalance limit value.

[0179] For example, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to update, based on identifying that the difference value belongs to a predetermined range, the unbalance limit value according to the difference value.

[0180] For example, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to identify the predicted vibration value corresponding to an unbalance value obtained by the washing machine based on a relationship equation indicating a relationship between the unbalance value and the predicted vibration value.

[0181] For example, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to obtain an average value of the difference values while the washing machine performs the dehydration cycle multiple times, and update the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

[0182] For example, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to change, based on the unbalance value being greater than the unbalance limit value, a rotation speed of the motor from the first rotation speed to a third rotation speed less than the first rotation speed, rotate the motor at the first rotation speed after the rotation speed of the motor is changed to the third rotation speed, and obtain the unbalance value while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed to compare the unbalance value with the unbalance limit value.

[0183] A controlling method of a washing machine according to one embodiment may include rotating a motor configured to rotate a drum at a first rotation speed for a dehydration cycle of wash targets included in the drum, obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to an unbalance level of the wash targets based on currents sensed through a current sensor configured to sense currents flowing in the motor while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed, rotating, based on the unbalance value not exceeding an unbalance limit value, the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed, obtaining a vibration value of the drum by using a vibration sensor configured to sense vibrations of the drum while the motor is rotated at the second rotation speed, and updating the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

[0184] For example, the updating the unbalance limit value may include increasing, based on the predicted vibration value being greater than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value to update the unbalance limit value, and decreasing, based on the predicted vibration value being less than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value to update the unbalance limit value.

[0185] For example, the updating the unbalance limit value may include updating, based on identifying that the difference value belongs to a predetermined range, the unbalance limit value according to the difference value.

[0186] For example, the updating the unbalance limit value may include identifying the predicted vibration value corresponding to an unbalance value obtained by the washing machine based on a relationship equation indicating a relationship between the unbalance value and the predicted vibration value.

[0187] For example, the updating the unbalance limit value may include obtaining an average value of the difference values during multi-time performance of the dehydration cycle, and updating the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

[0188] For example, the method may include changing, based on the unbalance value being greater than the unbalance limit value, a rotation speed of the motor from the first rotation speed to a third rotation speed less than the first rotation speed, rotating the motor at the first rotation speed after the rotation speed of the motor is changed to the third rotation speed, and obtaining the unbalance value while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed to compare the unbalance value with the unbalance limit value.

[0189] Various embodiments are respectively described above, but each of the embodiments may not be necessarily implemented individually, but may be coupled entirely or partially with at least another embodiment and implemented together with the at least another embodiment in one product.

[0190] Meanwhile, the embodiments set forth herein may be implemented in the form of a recording medium including an instruction executable by a computer, such as a program module executed by a computer. A computer-readable medium may be any available medium accessible by the computer, and include all of the volatile and non-volatile medium, and separable and non-separable medium. Additionally, the computer-readable medium may include a computer storage medium and a communication medium. The computer storage medium includes all of all of the volatile and non-volatile medium, and separable and non-separable medium implemented with any method or technology for storing information, such as a computer-readable instruction, data structure, program module or other data. A communication medium may typically include other data of a modulated data signal, such as a computer-readable instruction, data structure, or program module.

[0191] Further, the machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Herein, the “non-transitory storage medium” only means a tangible device and means including no signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves) while the term does not distinguish semi-permanent or temporary storage of data in the storage medium. For example, the “non-transitory storage medium” may include a buffer where data are temporarily stored.

[0192] The method according to the embodiments set forth herein may be provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be exchanged between a seller and a purchaser as a commodity. 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 distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online through an application store or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least part of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be stored at least temporarily, or generated temporarily in a machine-readable storage medium, such as a server of a manufacturer, a server of an application store, or memory of a relay server.

[0193] It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the disclosure according to the claims and description in the specification can be realized in the form of hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software.

[0194] Any such software may be stored in non-transitory computer readable storage media. The non-transitory computer readable storage media store one or more computer programs (software modules), the one or more computer programs include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform a method of the disclosure.

[0195] Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile or non-volatile storage, such as, for example, a storage device like read only memory (ROM), whether erasable or rewritable or not, or in the form of memory, such as, for example, random access memory (RAM), memory chips, device or integrated circuits or on an optically or magnetically readable medium, such as, for example, a compact disk (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD), magnetic disk or magnetic tape or the like. It will be appreciated that the storage devices and storage media are various embodiments of non-transitory machine-readable storage that are suitable for storing a computer program or computer programs comprising instructions that, when executed, implement various embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, various embodiments provide a program comprising code for implementing apparatus or a method of any one of the claims of this specification and a non-transitory machine-readable storage storing such a program.

[0196] While the disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A washing machine including a drum comprising:a motor configured to rotate the drum;a current sensor configured to sense currents flowing in the motor;a vibration sensor configured to sense vibrations of the drum;memory, comprising one or more storage media, storing instructions; andat least one processor, including processing circuitry, communicatively coupled to the motor, the current sensor, the vibration sensor, and the memory,wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to:rotate the motor at a first rotation speed, for a dehydration cycle of wash targets included in the drum,obtain an unbalance value corresponding to an unbalance level of the wash targets based on currents sensed through the current sensor while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed,rotate, based on the unbalance value not exceeding an unbalance limit value, the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed,obtain a vibration value of the drum by using the vibration sensor while the motor is rotated at the second rotation speed, andupdate the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum, corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

2. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, further cause the washing machine to:increase, based on the predicted vibration value being greater than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value, to update the unbalance limit value, anddecrease, based on the predicted vibration value being less than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value, to update the unbalance limit value.

3. The washing machine of claim 2, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, further cause the washing machine to:update, based on identifying that the difference value belongs to a predetermined range, the unbalance limit value according to the difference value.

4. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, further cause the washing machine to:identify the predicted vibration value corresponding to an unbalance value obtained by the washing machine based on a relationship equation indicating a relationship between an unbalance value and a predicted vibration value.

5. The washing machine of claim 2, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, further cause the washing machine to:obtain an average value of the difference value while performing dehydration cycle multiple times, andupdate the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

6. The washing machine of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor individually or collectively, further cause the washing machine to:change, based on the unbalance value being greater than the unbalance limit value, a rotation speed of the motor from the first rotation speed to a third rotation speed less than the first rotation speed,rotate the motor at the first rotation speed after a rotation speed of the motor is changed to the third rotation speed, andobtain the unbalance value while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed, to compare the unbalance value with the unbalance limit value.

7. A method of controlling a washing machine including a drum, the method comprising:rotating a motor configured to rotate the drum at a first rotation speed, for a dehydration cycle of wash targets included in the drum;obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to an unbalance level of the wash targets based on currents sensed through a current sensor configured to sense currents flowing in the motor while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed;rotating, based on the unbalance value not exceeding an unbalance limit value, the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed;obtaining a vibration value of the drum by using a vibration sensor configured to sense vibrations of the drum while the motor is rotated at the second rotation speed; andupdating the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum, corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the updating of the unbalance limit value comprises:increasing, based on the predicted vibration value being greater than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value, to update the unbalance limit value; anddecreasing, based on the predicted vibration value being less than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value, to update the unbalance limit value.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the updating of the unbalance limit value comprises:updating, based on identifying that the difference value belongs to a predetermined range, the unbalance limit value according to the difference value.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein the updating of the unbalance limit value comprises:identifying the predicted vibration value corresponding to an unbalance value obtained by the washing machine based on a relationship equation indicating a relationship between an unbalance value and a predicted vibration value.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the updating of the unbalance limit value comprises:obtaining an average value of the difference value during multi-time performance of the dehydration cycle; andupdating the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

12. The method of claim 7, further comprising:changing, based on the unbalance value being greater than the unbalance limit value, a rotation speed of the motor from the first rotation speed to a third rotation speed less than the first rotation speed;rotating the motor at the first rotation speed after a rotation speed of the motor is changed to the third rotation speed; andobtaining the unbalance value while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed, to compare the unbalance value with the unbalance limit value.

13. One or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media storing one or more computer programs including computer-executable instruction that, when executed by one or more processors of a washing machine including a drum individually or collectively, cause the washing machine to perform operations, the operations comprising:rotating a motor configured to rotate the drum at a first rotation speed, for a dehydration cycle of wash targets included in the drum;obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to an unbalance level of the wash targets based on currents sensed through a current sensor configured to sense currents flowing in the motor while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed;rotating, based on the unbalance value not exceeding an unbalance limit value, the motor at a second rotation speed greater than the first rotation speed;obtaining a vibration value of the drum by using a vibration sensor configured to sense vibrations of the drum while the motor is rotated at the second rotation speed; andupdating the unbalance limit value based on a predicted vibration value of the drum, corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

14. The one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 13, the operations further comprising:increasing, based on the predicted vibration value being greater than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value, to update the unbalance limit value; anddecreasing, based on the predicted vibration value being less than the vibration value, the unbalance limit value according to a difference value between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value, to update the unbalance limit value.

15. The one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 14, the operations further comprising:updating, based on identifying that the difference value belongs to a predetermined range, the unbalance limit value according to the difference value.

16. The one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 13, the operations further comprising:identifying the predicted vibration value corresponding to an unbalance value obtained by the washing machine based on a relationship equation indicating a relationship between an unbalance value and a predicted vibration value.

17. The one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 14, the operations further comprising:obtaining an average value of the difference value during multi-time performance of the dehydration cycle; andupdating the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

18. The one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media of claim 13, the operations further comprising:changing, based on the unbalance value being greater than the unbalance limit value, a rotation speed of the motor from the first rotation speed to a third rotation speed less than the first rotation speed;rotating the motor at the first rotation speed after a rotation speed of the motor is changed to the third rotation speed; andobtaining the unbalance value while the motor is rotated at the first rotation speed, to compare the unbalance value with the unbalance limit value.

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