Washing machine and control method therefor

Abstract

Disclosed is a washing machine. The washing machine comprises: a storage box for accommodating a detergent to be used for washing; a user interface for receiving an input of the total feeding amount of the detergent; a sensor for sensing whether the remaining amount of the detergent is not more than a preset threshold remaining amount; a memory; and a processor. The processor: stores, in a memory, data for the total feeding amount input via the user interface; when a sensing value of the sensor is output, calculates and stores a usage amount per unit time in the memory on the basis of a total supply time from a point in time at which the detergent is fed to the storage box to a point in time at which the sensing value is output, the total feeding amount, and the threshold remaining amount; and estimates the number of washable times on the basis of the usage amount per unit time.

Description

Washing machine and its control method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine and a control method thereof, and more particularly, to a washing machine and a control method thereof for estimating the number of wash cycles of detergent stored in a storage compartment of the washing machine.

[0002] Typically, a washing machine is a device that uses water and detergent to remove dirt from laundry. A washing machine uses the power of a motor to rotate the drum and perform a series of processes, including washing, rinsing, and spinning.

[0003] Washing machines can perform laundry using detergents, fabric softeners, bleach, and other ingredients. Washing machines typically have a storage compartment to hold these detergents. Users can pre-fill the compartment with a large quantity of detergent. During the wash cycle, the washing machine can automatically dispense the detergent or fabric softener stored in the compartment into the drum.

[0004] However, the conventional system had a problem: it was impossible to know how much detergent was stored in the storage compartment, making it impossible to predict how many more washes could be completed. If the user failed to refill the container in time, the laundry would continue without detergent.

[0005] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine according to at least one embodiment includes a storage box for storing detergent used for washing, a user interface for receiving input of the total amount of detergent to be added, a sensor for sensing whether the remaining amount of detergent is below a preset threshold remaining amount, a memory, and a processor.

[0006] The processor stores data on the total amount of detergent input through the user interface in the memory, and when a sensing value of the sensor is output, calculates the amount of detergent to be used per unit time based on the total supply time from the time the detergent is put into the storage box to the time the sensing value is output, the total amount of detergent to be used, and the critical remaining amount, and stores the calculated amount of detergent to the memory, and estimates the number of washes that can be washed based on the amount of detergent to be used per unit time.

[0007] Meanwhile, a control method of a washing machine according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes a step of receiving and storing a total amount of detergent put into a storage compartment of the washing machine, a step of calculating a usage amount per unit time based on the total supply time of the detergent from the time of putting the detergent into the storage compartment to the time of outputting the sensing value, the total amount put into the storage compartment, and the threshold remaining amount when a sensing value of a sensor for detecting that the remaining amount of the detergent in the storage compartment has fallen below a preset threshold remaining amount, and a step of estimating the number of washes possible based on the usage amount per unit time.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0010] Figures 3 to 5 are drawings for explaining correction of usage per unit time according to various embodiments.

[0011] FIGS. 6 to 11 are flowcharts for explaining a method for controlling a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Hereinafter, the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0013] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0014] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0015] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0016] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0017] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0018] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0019] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0020] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0021] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0022] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0023] Washing machines according to various embodiments perform operations to remove contaminants from laundry. Specifically, the washing machine can perform operations such as washing, which removes contaminants from laundry stored in a washing tub using water and detergent, rinsing, which washes away detergent and contaminants with clean water, and spin-drying, which removes moisture from laundry.

[0024] A washing machine is an example of a clothing treatment device, and a clothing treatment device is a concept that encompasses a device that washes clothing (items to be washed, items to be dried), a device that dries clothing, and a device that can perform both washing and drying of clothing.

[0025] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include top-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet for loading or removing laundry is provided facing upward, and front-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet is provided facing forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0026] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. The front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine with a dryer that can dry the laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine with a dryer may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. For example, the washing machine with a dryer may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine with a washing method other than the washing method described above.

[0027] A washing machine according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components therein. The washing machine may include a tub provided within the housing to store water. The tub may be provided in a generally cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be arranged within the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet. The tub may be broadly divided into an outer tub and an inner tub. The outer tub is configured to store water, and the inner tub is configured to rotate while containing laundry within the outer tub. Alternatively, the outer tub may be referred to as a tub outer, a water storage tank, a fixed tank, etc., and the inner tub may be referred to by various names such as a basket, a spin basket, a washing tank, a rotating tank, etc. In this disclosure, they will be referred to as the tub outer and the basket, respectively, for description.

[0028] A washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires the user to supply detergent for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large quantity of detergent and automatically supplies a predetermined amount of detergent during the wash cycle.

[0029] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings below.

[0030] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 1, the washing machine (100) includes a storage box (110), a user interface (120), a sensor (130), a memory (140), and a processor (150).

[0032] The storage box (110) is configured to accommodate detergent used for laundry. In the present disclosure, each embodiment has been described based on detergent, but it is not necessarily limited to detergent, and the same can be applied to cases where laundry aids such as fabric softener, rinse, and bleach are stored in large quantities and automatically supplied in addition to detergent. The storage box (110) is arranged in the main body of the washing machine (100). The storage box (110) may include a cover formed toward the exterior of the washing machine (100) so that a user can easily fill the detergent. However, the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and the storage box (110) may be used by protruding from the exterior of the washing machine (100) or connected to a cable for detergent delivery in a state provided separately from the washing machine (100).

[0033] The storage box (110) may be provided exclusively for detergent, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and may be divided into multiple storage spaces that can store not only detergent but also fabric softener or rinse through a single opening.

[0034] The detergent contained in the storage box (110) can be supplied into the tub during the water supply process of the washing tub. For example, water supplied through the water supply pipe of the washing machine (100) can be mixed with detergent via a detergent supply device, and the water mixed with the detergent can be supplied into the tub. Alternatively, a nozzle for delivering detergent to the washing tub, and an opening / closing structure capable of opening and closing the inlet or passage of the nozzle may be provided at the bottom of the storage box (110). The opening / closing structure may be implemented in various forms such as an aperture, a hinged cover, a sliding cover, and may also be implemented in other forms. When an event requiring detergent injection occurs during the washing process, the processor (150) can open the opening / closing structure and supply the detergent to the washing tub through the supply nozzle. The processor (150) can adjust the opening time of the opening / closing structure so that different amounts of detergent can be injected depending on the amount of laundry, the amount of water, the type of laundry, the washing method, etc. Therefore, the amount of detergent supplied to the washing machine can be determined according to the opening time of the opening / closing structure.

[0035] The user interface (120) is configured to receive various user operations. For example, when adding detergent, the user can directly input the total amount of detergent to be added through the user interface (120). For example, after adding all 1L of detergent to the storage container (110), the user can input the information "1L" through the user interface (120). The total amount of detergent to be added can be input in weight or volume units, but in the present disclosure, the volume unit is used as the basis for explanation.

[0036] For example, in order to input the total amount of detergent, the user interface (120) may display an image in the form of a bar graph. The user can visually identify whether the total amount injected into the storage (110) is the maximum (Max) or, if not, the percentage by looking at the scale displayed on the storage (110). The scale displayed on the storage (110) may display not only the water level but also the corresponding volume value as a number. For example, if the maximum is displayed as 1 L, the user can intuitively identify that he or she has injected the maximum capacity of the storage (110) by checking the total amount of detergent bags he or she has injected. Once the user has identified the total amount of detergent he or she has injected, the user can touch a portion of the bar graph corresponding to the total amount injected. If the top of the bar graph is touched, the processor (150) identifies that the maximum capacity has been injected, and if the middle point is touched, the processor (150) identifies that 50% has been injected. In the above, the case of receiving input of the total amount of detergent input using a bar graph has been described, but it is not limited thereto, and the user interface (120) may provide various types of graphs other than a bar graph, or may provide an area where numbers or text can be directly input.

[0037] Meanwhile, the user interface (120) may also receive input from the user regarding the amount of detergent or softener to be used for laundry. The amount of detergent or softener may be input in units of volume or weight, but may also be displayed in a menu format for the user to select from, such as Off, Economy, Standard, or Large, to differentiate between specific amounts. Alternatively, the input may be received in percentage units.

[0038] The user interface (120) may be positioned on the front or top surface of the washing machine (100) to enable interaction between the user and the washing machine (100), but is not necessarily limited thereto. The user interface (120) may include various output interfaces and various input interfaces. The input interface may convert sensory information received from the user into electrical signals.

[0039] For example, the input interface may include various buttons such as a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and wash / rinse / spin setting buttons. In addition, the input interface may include, for example, 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.

[0040] The output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine (100) to the user.

[0041] For example, the output interface can transmit information related to the washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (100), washing settings / rinsing settings / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine can be output to the screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0042] However, it is not limited thereto, and the user interface (120) may be any device that allows interaction between the user and the washing machine (100).

[0043] For example, in the case of a washing machine that supports a voice recognition function, when a user speaks, the washing machine (100) can receive the voice using a microphone, recognize the input voice, and identify the content of the user command. As another example, in the case of a washing machine that supports a motion recognition function, the washing machine (100) can capture and recognize the user's motion using a camera or the like, and then identify the content corresponding to the motion.

[0044] Meanwhile, the washing machine (100) may further include at least one communication interface. In this case, the washing machine (100) may communicate with various external devices through the communication interface.

[0045] For example, if the washing machine (100) communicates with a terminal device such as a user's mobile phone or a washing machine remote control, the user may input various user commands using the terminal device. The user may also input the total input amount described above through the terminal device.

[0046] The sensor (130) is configured to sense whether the remaining amount of detergent stored in the storage box (110) is below a preset threshold remaining amount. The sensor (130) according to the present disclosure may include a plurality of electrode rods. The processor (150) may measure the characteristics of electrical signals output from the plurality of electrode rods. The processor (150) may apply a preset voltage to the plurality of electrode rods to measure current values, voltage values, electrical resistance values, electrical conductivity (EC), etc., between the plurality of electrode rods.

[0047] For example, the processor (150) can measure the current value between the plurality of electrode rods, and if the measured current value is above a certain value, it can recognize that the detergent is stored in the storage box (110) in an amount exceeding a critical amount. If the remaining amount of detergent stored in the storage box (110) is below the critical amount, air is present between the plurality of electrode rods, and as a result, the current value between the plurality of electrode rods is not measured or is measured within a certain value, so the processor (150) can recognize that there is no detergent in the storage box (110).

[0048] However, it is not limited thereto, and the sensor (130) may be any device capable of detecting the remaining amount or presence of detergent contained in the storage box (110).

[0049] The memory (140) can store at least one command required for the operation of the washing machine (100), various software, and data required for various embodiments of the washing machine (100). When information on the total amount of detergent contained in the storage compartment (110) is input through the user interface (120) and other means, the memory (140) stores the input information.

[0050] The memory (140) can store data on the number of washes possible and data on the amount of use per unit time previously estimated by the processor (150). The data on the number of washes possible and data on the amount of use per unit time will be described again in the following section.

[0051] The memory (140) can store information on the detergent supply time set differently for each washing condition of the washing machine (100). In addition, the memory (140) can store various information under the control of the processor (150).

[0052] The memory (140) may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM)), non-volatile memory (e.g., one time programmable ROM (OTPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD)).

[0053] In addition, the memory (140) may be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., CF (compact flash), SD (secure digital), Micro-SD (micro secure digital), Mini-SD (mini secure digital), xD (extreme digital), MMC (multi-media card), etc.), an external memory (e.g., USB memory) that can be connected to a USB port, etc.

[0054] The processor (150) is connected to each component of the washing machine (100) and is configured to control the overall operation of the washing machine (100).

[0055] The processor (150) can control various components of the washing machine (100) to perform at least one operation, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, according to user input. For example, the processor (150) can control a drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of a drum, or control a water supply valve of a water supply device to supply water to a tub.

[0056] When the sensing value of the sensor (130) is output, the processor (150) according to the present disclosure calculates the usage per unit time based on the total supply time from the time the detergent is put into the storage (110) to the time the sensing value is output, the total amount put in, and the critical remaining amount, and stores the calculated usage in the memory (140).

[0057] The amount of detergent used per unit time refers to the amount of detergent used during a preset unit time (e.g., 1 second). As described above, different amounts of detergent must be added depending on the amount of laundry, type of laundry, washing method, etc., and the amount of detergent varies depending on the open time of the supply nozzle connected to the storage compartment (110). If the condition of the supply nozzle is normal or the amount of detergent is sufficient, the amount of detergent used per unit time should be constant. However, if the amount of detergent is insufficient, even if the processor (150) has normally opened the opening / closing structure, the amount of detergent supplied through the supply nozzle cannot but be insufficient. Conversely, if the supply nozzle is completely or partially closed, broken, or bent, the amount of detergent supplied through the supply nozzle may become insufficient.

[0058] As described above, the sensor (130) is provided on the lower side of the storage box (110) to sense whether the remaining amount of detergent is below a critical amount. Therefore, the output of the sensing value of the sensor (130) means that the detergent is almost exhausted.

[0059] The processor (150) can estimate and provide the number of wash cycles possible based on the total amount of detergent input and the single-use amount used for washing through the user interface (120). However, since the single-use amount of detergent used for washing varies each time depending on the washing conditions, it is difficult to estimate the exact number of wash cycles possible.

[0060] Accordingly, the processor (150) according to various embodiments calculates the total supply time from the time the detergent is put into the storage box (110) to the time the sensing value is output, and calculates the amount of detergent used per unit time based on the calculated total supply time, the total amount put in, and the critical remaining amount.

[0061] Specifically, the processor (150) can identify washing conditions when a washing start command is input through the user interface (120) and control the storage unit (110) to automatically supply detergent to the washing tub for a supply time corresponding to the identified washing conditions.

[0062] In addition, the processor (150) can add the supply time used for washing to the total supply time and store it in the memory (140). For example, if detergent is supplied for 5 seconds during the first wash after the initial detergent injection, and for 2 seconds and 3 seconds during the second and third washes, respectively, the processor (150) can store information on a total supply time of 10 seconds in the memory (140).

[0063] In this case, the processor (150) can reset the total supply time at the time the detergent is put into the storage container (110).

[0064] The processor (150) continuously accumulates and adds the supply time used for washing to the total supply time from the point in time when the total supply time is reset by putting the detergent into the storage (110), and can determine the total supply time up to the point in time when the sensing value of the sensor (130) is output as the total supply time for the total amount put in.

[0065] The processor (150) can calculate the usage per unit time based on the determined total supply time and total input amount. For example, assuming that the total supply time from the time the detergent is input into the storage box (110) to the time the sensing value is output is 500 seconds, the total input amount is 1000 ml, and the unit time is set to 5 seconds, the processor (150) can calculate the usage per unit time as 10 ml using the following [Mathematical Formula 1].

[0066]

[0067] Here, UPT is the usage per unit time, TIA is the total amount of detergent injected, TST is the total supply time from the time the detergent is injected into the storage (110) to the time the sensing value is output, and UT represents unit time.

[0068] However, if the remaining amount of detergent in the storage box (110) is not 0 at the time when the sensing value of the sensor (130) is output, and data on the remaining amount is input through the user interface (120), the processor (150) can calculate the usage per unit time based on the total supply time, the total amount injected, and the critical remaining amount. For example, assuming that the total supply time is 500 seconds, the total amount injected is 1000 ml, and the critical remaining amount is 100 ml, the processor (150) can calculate the usage per unit time as 9 ml using the following [Mathematical Formula 2].

[0069]

[0070] Here, CA represents the preset threshold residual amount.

[0071] The processor (150) estimates the number of wash cycles possible for the total amount of detergent injected based on the calculated usage per unit time. The processor (150) can estimate the number of wash cycles possible using [Mathematical Formula 3] below.

[0072]

[0073] Here, NWT represents the number of washes possible.

[0074] Although only one processor (150) is illustrated in FIG. 1, at least one processor (150) for performing the various operations described above may be implemented. Specifically, the processor (150) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), a MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator.

[0075] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the processor (150) may mean a system on a chip (SoC) in which one or more processors and other electronic components are integrated, a single-core processor, a multi-core processor, or a core included in a single-core processor or a multi-core processor, wherein the core may be implemented as a CPU, a GPU, an APU, a MIC, a DSP, an NPU, a hardware accelerator, or a machine learning accelerator, but embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0076] In FIG. 1, the washing machine (100) is illustrated and described based on the case where it includes basic configurations for estimating the number of washes possible for a detergent, but the washing machine (100) may further include additional configurations for estimating and providing the number of washes possible in various ways.

[0077] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a washing machine according to various embodiments.

[0078] According to FIG. 2, the washing machine (100) may include a storage box (110), a user interface (120), a sensor (130), a memory (140), a processor (150), a communication unit (160), and a display (170). Among the configurations illustrated in FIG. 2, a detailed description of configurations that overlap with those illustrated in FIG. 1 will be omitted.

[0079] The communication unit (160) can communicate with a user terminal device. For example, the processor (150) can control the communication unit (160) to transmit information on the estimated number of wash cycles to the user terminal device.

[0080] When the processor (150) receives information about the standard number of washes set in the user terminal device through the communication unit (160), the processor (150) can store the information about the standard number of washes in the memory (140). In addition, when the estimated number of washes that can be washed reaches the set standard number of washes, the processor (150) can control the communication unit (160) to transmit a notification signal to the user terminal device. In conventional devices, the number of washes that can be washed cannot be accurately calculated, but in the case of the present device that can estimate the number of washes that can be washed, the user can directly set the standard number of washes. As described above, when the number of washes that can be washed reaches the standard number (e.g., 3 times) and the processor (150) transmits a notification signal, the user can check the notification signal through his / her user terminal device and then take actions such as purchasing additional detergent or determining the timing of washing. Accordingly, a situation in which laundry cannot be done unexpectedly due to a lack of detergent can be prevented.

[0081] Meanwhile, according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the number of wash cycles reaches a preset number, the processor (150) can automatically access a web server for ordering detergent and perform an automatic detergent ordering operation. When an automatic detergent order is received, the web server can transmit a notification message and an authentication request to the registered user terminal device. If the user performs authentication, the web server can confirm the detergent purchase and send the detergent to the registered address.

[0082] The communication unit (160) may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module. The communication unit (160) may transmit data to an external device (e.g., a user terminal device, a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance) or receive data from an external device.

[0083] To this end, the communication unit (160) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication unit (160) can include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). The communication unit (160) can communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). The communication unit (160) including these various types of communication modules may be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0084] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0085] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit may transmit and receive wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0086] The display (170) can perform a display operation under the control of the processor (150). For example, the display (170) can display the number of possible washing cycles.

[0087] If the processor (150) has previously estimated the amount of use per unit time and stored in the memory (140) in the above-described manner, and data on the total amount of detergent input is input through the user interface (120) or the communication unit (160), the processor (150) can immediately estimate the number of washings possible based on the stored information and the total amount of detergent newly input.

[0088] The processor (150) can control the display (170) to display the estimated number of wash cycles. The processor (150) can also notify the user not only when a wash start command is input, but also whenever the user inputs a user command to check the number of wash cycles through the user interface (120) or the communication unit (160).

[0089] The display (170) may be implemented as a display including a self-luminous element or a display including a non-luminous element and a backlight. For example, it may be implemented as various types of displays such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) display, an LED (Light Emitting Diodes), a micro LED, a Mini LED, a PDP (Plasma Display Panel), a QD (Quantum dot) display, a QLED (Quantum dot light-emitting diodes), etc.

[0090] As shown in Fig. 2, if the washing machine (100) further includes a communication unit (160) and the communication unit (160) performs communication with a user terminal device carried by the user, the processor (150) may transmit all or part of the information displayed through the display (170) to the user terminal device through the communication unit (160). In addition, the processor (150) may receive all or part of the user commands that can be input through the user interface (120) from the user terminal device through the communication unit (160).

[0091] Figures 3 to 5 are drawings for explaining correction of usage per unit time according to various embodiments.

[0092] According to FIG. 3, the processor (150) can correct the usage per unit time based on the previously estimated number of washes possible and whether the sensor (130) outputs a sensing value. When detergent is put into the storage compartment (110) and laundry is performed based on the previously estimated number of washes possible and the usage per unit time, there may be cases where the number of washes actually performed does not match the estimated number of washes possible.

[0093] For example, even though the previously estimated number of washes is exhausted, there is a case where the remaining amount of detergent in the storage (110) that can be washed is greater than the critical amount, and thus the sensing value of the sensor (130) is not output, or the detergent in the storage (110) is exhausted before the previously estimated number of washes is reached, and thus the sensing value of the sensor (130) is output.

[0094] In this case, the processor (150) determines that there is an error in the amount of detergent used per unit time, and may increase or decrease the amount of detergent used per unit time based on the previously estimated number of wash cycles and whether the sensor (130) outputs a sensing value.

[0095] In Fig. 3, Case 1 represents a case where the sensing value of the sensor (130) is not output and the estimated number of wash cycles is not fully exhausted. In other words, Case 1 represents a state of use of a typical washing machine (100) in which there is a sufficient amount of detergent for washing in the storage compartment (110) and at least one wash cycle remains.

[0096] Case 2 represents a case where the sensing value of the sensor (130) is not output when the estimated number of possible washes is 0. In other words, Case 2 represents a case where a sufficient amount of detergent for washing remains in the storage box (110) even though the estimated number of possible washes has been exhausted.

[0097] In this case, the processor (150) determines that the actual amount of laundry detergent used during the washing process is less than the predicted amount, and increases the amount used per unit time. This will be described in detail later with reference to the drawings.

[0098] Alternatively, the processor (150) may determine that the supply nozzle connected to the storage box (110) is blocked by debris in the case of Case 2 and perform a cleaning operation on the supply nozzle connected to the storage box (110).

[0099] Case 3 represents a case where the sensing value of the sensor (130) is output while the previously estimated number of washes remains. Case 3 represents a case where the sensing value of the sensor (130) is output while the detergent stored in the storage box (110) has been exhausted below the critical remaining amount while there are still remaining washing cycles based on the estimated number of washes remaining.

[0100] In this case, the processor (150) determines that the actual amount of detergent used during the washing process is greater than the predicted amount, and reduces the amount used per unit time. This will be described in detail later with reference to the drawings.

[0101] Case 4 represents a case where the sensing value of the sensor (130) is output when the previously estimated number of washes possible reaches 0. Case 4 represents a state where detergent is normally dispensed according to the estimated number of washes possible and used up to below the critical remaining amount.

[0102] Figure 4 is a drawing for specifically explaining Case 2 of Figure 3.

[0103] According to Fig. 4, assuming that the total amount of detergent contained in the storage box (110) is 100 ml, the preset unit time is 5 seconds (sec), and the total supply time from the time the detergent is put into the storage box (110) to the time the sensing value is output is 100 seconds (sec), the calculated usage per unit time is 5 ml. In this case, the processor (150) can estimate the number of washes possible for the total amount of detergent put in of 100 ml to be 20.

[0104] However, if the sensing value of the sensor (130) is not output even when the estimated number of washable cycles is all used and is 0, as in Case 2 of FIG. 3, the processor (150) can determine that there is detergent remaining in the storage box (110) in an amount exceeding the critical amount.

[0105] In this case, if the remaining amount of detergent is input through the user interface (120), the processor (150) can calculate the total amount of detergent actually used during the total supply time. For example, if the remaining amount of 20 ml is input through the user interface (120), the processor (150) can calculate 80 ml as the actual value of the total amount of detergent used during the total supply time.

[0106] The processor (150) can calculate that the actual value of the discharge amount per second is 0.8 ml / s based on the total supply time of 100 seconds and the actual total amount injected of 80 ml. The processor (150) can increase the amount used per unit time to correct the actual amount of detergent used during washing based on the calculated actual value of the discharge amount per second. For example, the processor (150) can calculate the corrected amount used per unit time using [Mathematical Formula 4] below and perform the correction based on the calculated amount used per unit time.

[0107]

[0108] CUPT = 100ml / (0.8x20) = 6.25ml

[0109] Here, CUPT is the adjusted usage per unit time, and DAS represents the amount of detergent dispensed per second.

[0110] According to Figure 4, it can be confirmed that the corrected usage per unit time has increased by 1.25 ml from the previous 5 ml to 6.25 ml.

[0111] Figure 5 is a drawing for specifically explaining Case 3 of Figure 3.

[0112] According to FIG. 5, assuming that the total amount of detergent contained in the storage box (110) is 100 ml, the preset unit time is 5 seconds (sec), and the total supply time from the time the detergent is put into the storage box (110) to the time the sensing value is output is 100 seconds (sec), the processor (150) can estimate the amount used per unit time as 5 ml and the number of washes possible for the total amount of detergent put in as 100 ml as 20.

[0113] However, if the sensing value of the sensor (130) is output while the previously estimated number of washes remaining, as in Case 3 of Fig. 3, the processor (150) may determine that an error has occurred in the amount of detergent used per unit time. The processor (150) may calculate the amount of detergent dispensed per second for the actually performed number of washes of 15 using [Mathematical Formula 5] below.

[0114]

[0115] DAS = 100ml / (15x5) = 1.33ml

[0116] Here, ANWT represents the actual number of wash cycles performed.

[0117] Additionally, the processor (150) may reduce the amount of detergent used per unit time to correct the actual amount of detergent used during washing based on the actual value of the calculated discharge amount per second. For example, the processor (150) may calculate the amount of detergent used per unit time corrected to correspond to the estimated number of possible washes using [Mathematical Formula 6] below, and perform the correction based on the calculated amount of detergent used per unit time.

[0118]

[0119] CUPT = 100ml / (1.33x20) = 3.76ml

[0120] According to Figure 5, it can be confirmed that the corrected usage per unit time has decreased by 1.24 ml from the previous 5 ml to 3.76 ml.

[0121] The processor (150) according to the present disclosure can calculate the detergent supply time as a real number multiple of the unit time and store it in the memory (140). The processor (150) compares the calculated usage per unit time with the usage per unit time already stored in the memory (140), and if there is a difference, the processor can modify the information on the detergent supply time stored in the memory (140) based on the calculated usage per unit time and the amount of detergent determined under the washing conditions.

[0122] Specifically, if an error occurs in the amount of detergent per unit time or the number of washes that can be performed when performing a wash due to a problem with a supply nozzle connected to a storage box (110), the processor (150) can compare the amount of detergent per unit time calculated based on the total supply time from the time the detergent is put into the storage box (110) to the time the sensing value is output, the total amount put in, and the critical remaining amount with the amount of detergent per unit time already stored in the memory (140).

[0123] Additionally, if there is a difference between the calculated usage per unit time and the usage per unit time already stored in the memory (140), the processor (150) can modify information on the detergent supply time stored in the memory (140).

[0124] Meanwhile, when performing laundry in a washing machine (100), the supply time for adding detergent varies depending on various washing conditions, such as the type of laundry, the amount of laundry, the washing method, the type of detergent, etc. Previously, whenever a difference in the amount of laundry used per unit time occurred, information on the supply time, which was set differently for each washing condition, had to be individually changed.

[0125] The processor (150) according to the present disclosure calculates the detergent supply time as a real number multiple of the unit time and stores it in the memory (140), and can collectively correct information on the supply time set differently for each washing condition through correction of the unit time based on the amount of detergent used per unit time and the amount determined under the washing conditions.

[0126] FIGS. 6 to 11 are flowcharts for explaining a method for controlling a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0127] According to one or more embodiments, the washing machine receives and stores the total amount of detergent stored in the storage compartment (S610). The washing machine can receive and store the total amount of detergent or the remaining amount using a user interface or user terminal device provided on one side of the washing machine.

[0128] When a sensing value of a sensor for detecting that the remaining amount of detergent in the storage compartment falls below a preset threshold remaining amount is output, the washing machine calculates the usage per unit time based on the total supply time of the detergent from the time the detergent is put into the storage compartment to the time the sensing value is output, the total amount put in, and the threshold remaining amount (S620).

[0129] Additionally, the washing machine estimates the number of washes that can be done based on the usage per unit time (S630).

[0130] The method for calculating the usage per unit time and estimating the number of washes possible has been specifically described in the washing machine mentioned above, so a duplicate explanation will be omitted.

[0131] According to FIG. 7, the washing machine can display the estimated number of wash cycles (S740). The washing machine can display the number of wash cycles via a user interface or display provided on one side of the washing machine, or can communicate with a user terminal device to transmit information about the estimated number of wash cycles to the user terminal device.

[0132] The washing machine can correct the usage per unit time based on the previously estimated number of wash cycles and whether the sensing value is output (S750).

[0133] According to FIG. 8, if the sensing value is not output when the previously estimated number of wash cycles is 0, the washing machine can perform a correction to increase the amount of detergent used per unit time (S810). The lack of a sensing value when the previously estimated number of wash cycles is 0 indicates that there is still enough detergent remaining in the washing machine's storage compartment to perform a full wash.

[0134] Additionally, since the washing machine indicates that less detergent has been added to the drum than the preset supply amount when performing a wash cycle, the amount used per unit time can be increased to reach the preset supply amount of detergent.

[0135] If a sensing value is output while the previously estimated number of washes remaining remains, the washing machine can reduce the amount of detergent used per unit time (S820). The output of a sensing value while the previously estimated number of washes remaining indicates that all detergent stored in the storage compartment has been used before the estimated number of washes has been reached.

[0136] Additionally, it reduces the amount of laundry used per unit time, eliminating the error from the preset supply amount, as it indicates that the washing machine has put in more laundry than the preset supply amount when performing a wash.

[0137] According to Figure 9, the washing machine can calculate and store information on the detergent supply time, which is set differently for each washing condition, as a real number times the unit time (S910). Because the information on the detergent supply time varies depending on the washing condition, it is difficult to establish a standard for estimating the number of wash cycles possible for the washing machine.

[0138] In addition, if there is an error in the amount supplied during washing and correction is required, there is the inconvenience of having to individually adjust the supply time set for each washing condition.

[0139] The control method of a washing machine according to the present disclosure calculates and stores the detergent supply time as a real number multiple of the unit time, thereby estimating the number of washing cycles possible based on the amount of use per unit time, and even when correction of various supply times is required for each washing condition, the supply time can be corrected in bulk through correction of the unit time.

[0140] At this time, the unit time can be set based on the average detergent supply time for each washing condition or on previously performed washing conditions. For example, the detergent supply time can be calculated by applying a weight based on the number of washing conditions performed over a certain period of time, and the calculated supply time can be applied as the unit time.

[0141] The washing machine can compare the calculated usage per unit time with the usage per unit time stored in memory (S920).

[0142] Additionally, if there is a difference in the comparison result, the washing machine can correct the information on the detergent supply time based on the amount of detergent determined in the calculated unit time usage and washing conditions (S930).

[0143] According to Fig. 10, when a user operation to start washing is input, the washing machine can identify the washing conditions (S1010) and identify the detergent supply time set to correspond to the washing conditions (S1020).

[0144] Additionally, when the remaining detergent amount is input, the washing machine calculates the amount of detergent consumed during the supply time based on the usage per unit time, and compares the calculated amount with the input remaining amount to determine whether washing is possible (S1030). For example, there may be cases where the sensing value of the washing machine is output, but the remaining detergent in the storage compartment is not completely consumed (empty).

[0145] In this case, when the remaining amount of detergent is input, the washing machine can compare the amount of detergent consumed during the supply time according to the input washing conditions with the input remaining amount to determine whether washing is possible.

[0146] If the washing machine determines that washing is possible based on the determination of whether washing is possible, it can perform washing by adding detergent to the washing tub during the supply time. Furthermore, if the washing machine determines that washing is not possible, it can output a notification message requesting detergent replenishment (S1040).

[0147] According to FIG. 11, the washing machine can input and store the total amount of detergent stored in the storage compartment of the washing machine (S1110), estimate the number of washing cycles possible based on the previously calculated usage per unit time, and store it in the memory (S1120).

[0148] In this case, the washing machine can estimate the number of washing cycles possible for the total amount of detergent contained in the storage container based on the total amount of detergent contained in the storage container and the amount of detergent used per unit time previously calculated and stored in the memory.

[0149] When a wash start command is input, the washing machine identifies the washing conditions and automatically supplies detergent to the washing tub for a supply time corresponding to the identified washing conditions to perform the wash (S1130). In this case, the remaining amount, which is the amount supplied corresponding to the washing conditions reduced from the total amount stored in the storage compartment due to the washing being performed, is stored in the storage compartment.

[0150] The washing machine can calculate the supply time corresponding to the washing conditions as a real number times the unit time, and store the calculated real number in memory by subtracting it from the estimated number of possible washing cycles (S1140).

[0151] Since the supply time and amount of detergent vary depending on the washing conditions, the method of deducting one wash from the previously estimated number of washes each time a wash is performed is inaccurate.

[0152] The washing machine calculates the supply time corresponding to the washing conditions as a real number multiple of the unit time to estimate the number of washable cycles deducted based on the supply time and supply amount that are differently discharged depending on the washing conditions after the washing is performed, and calculates the current number of washable cycles based on the unit time calculated as a real number multiple.

[0153] The washing machine can receive and store information regarding the standard number of washes set from the user terminal device (S1150). In addition, the washing machine can transmit a notification signal to the user terminal device when the number of wash cycles reaches the standard number of washes (S1160).

[0154] Specifically, when a standard number of washes is input through the user interface of the washing machine or a user terminal device, the washing machine can transmit the number of remaining washes to the user terminal device or transmit a notification signal when the number of remaining washes reaches the standard number of washes.

[0155] Through this, the user can check the number of remaining washes or receive a notification signal before the remaining amount of detergent stored in the storage reaches a critical amount and a sensing value is output. In addition, the user can purchase or prepare detergent in advance before the detergent stored in the storage is completely used up. In particular, when the user presets a standard number of washes and stores it in the washing machine (100) as described above, the washing machine (100) can receive a notification signal through the user terminal device, allowing the user to immediately purchase detergent. Alternatively, the washing machine (100) can be implemented to automatically order detergent.

[0156] The washing machine control methods described in the various flowcharts described above can be performed in a washing machine having the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, but are not necessarily limited thereto, and may be performed in a washing machine having a different configuration. Alternatively, the above-described control methods may be executed in conjunction with the washing machine on various terminal devices, such as a PC, laptop PC, mobile phone, tablet PC, or kiosk, connected to the washing machine.

[0157] In addition, although the above-described sections have described each embodiment separately, each embodiment may be implemented independently or may be implemented in whole or in part in combination with at least one other embodiment.

[0158] Meanwhile, the washing machine control method according to the various embodiments described above may be implemented in the form of program code for performing each step, stored on a recording medium, and distributed. In this case, a device equipped with the recording medium can perform the operations of the washing machine (100) described above.

[0159] Such recording media may be various types of computer-readable media, such as ROM, RAM, memory chips, memory cards, external hard drives, hard drives, CDs, DVDs, magnetic disks or magnetic tapes.

[0160] In this way, the washing machine and the control method thereof according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can estimate and provide the number of wash cycles of detergent stored in the storage compartment of the washing machine without using expensive sensors.

[0161] Therefore, the washing machine and the control method thereof according to the present disclosure have the effect of preventing the user of the washing machine from having to check the remaining amount of detergent every time he or she performs laundry, and of estimating and providing an accurate number of possible washes even when performing laundry under different washing conditions.

[0162] Although the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains without departing from the gist of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. In the washing machine, A storage compartment for detergents used in laundry; A user interface for entering the total amount of detergent to be added; A sensor for sensing whether the remaining amount of the detergent is less than or equal to a preset threshold remaining amount; memory; and Processor; including; The above processor stores data on the total input amount input through the user interface in the memory, When the sensing value of the above sensor is output, the total supply time from the time the detergent is put into the storage box to the time the sensing value is output, and based on the total amount put in and the critical remaining amount, the amount used per unit time is calculated and stored in the memory. A washing machine that estimates the number of wash cycles possible based on the usage per unit time.

2. In paragraph 1, The above processor, A washing machine that corrects the usage per unit time based on the previously estimated number of washable cycles and whether the sensor outputs a sensing value.

3. In paragraph 2, The above processor, If the sensing value of the sensor is not output while the previously estimated number of washes is 0, the usage per unit time is increased. A washing machine that reduces the amount of use per unit time when the sensing value of the sensor is output while the previously estimated number of washes remaining is present.

4. In paragraph 3, The above processor, A washing machine that performs a cleaning operation for a supply nozzle connected to the storage box when the sensing value of the sensor is not output while the previously estimated number of washable cycles is 0.

5. In paragraph 1, It further includes a communication unit for performing communication with a user terminal device; The above processor, A washing machine that controls the communication unit to transmit information about the estimated number of washing cycles to the user terminal device.

6. In paragraph 5, The above processor, When information about the standard number of times set in the user terminal device is received through the communication unit, information about the standard number of times is stored in the memory, A washing machine that controls the communication unit to transmit a notification signal to the user terminal device when the estimated number of wash cycles reaches the reference number of cycles.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above memory stores information about the detergent supply time set differently depending on the washing conditions, The above processor, When a washing start command is input through the user interface, the washing condition is identified, and the storage box is controlled to automatically supply the detergent to the washing tub during the supply time corresponding to the identified washing condition. A washing machine that adds the supply time used for the above washing to the total supply time and stores it in the memory.

8. In paragraph 7, The above processor, The supply time of the above detergent is calculated as a real number times the above unit time and stored in the above memory, The above processor, A washing machine that compares the calculated unit time usage and the unit time usage already stored in the memory, and if there is a difference, modifies the information on the supply time of the detergent stored in the memory based on the calculated unit time usage and the amount of detergent determined under the washing conditions.

9. In the method of controlling a washing machine, A step of receiving and storing the total amount of detergent stored in the storage compartment of the washing machine; When a sensing value of a sensor for detecting that the remaining amount of the detergent in the storage box falls below a preset threshold remaining amount is output, a step for calculating the usage per unit time based on the total supply time of the detergent from the time the detergent is put into the storage box to the time the sensing value is output, the total amount put in, and the threshold remaining amount; and A control method, comprising: a step of estimating the number of possible washing cycles based on the usage per unit time; 10. In paragraph 9, A control method further comprising: a step of correcting the usage per unit time based on the previously estimated number of washable times and whether the sensing value is output; 11. In paragraph 10, The step of correcting the usage per unit time is: If the sensing value is not output while the previously estimated number of washes is 0, a step of increasing the usage per unit time; and A control method, comprising: a step of reducing the amount of use per unit time when the sensing value is output while the previously estimated number of washes remaining is present.

12. In paragraph 10, The step of correcting the usage per unit time is: A step of calculating and storing information on the supply time of detergent, which is set differently for each washing condition, as a real number multiple of the unit time; A step of comparing the unit time usage calculated above with the unit time usage previously stored in the memory; and A control method, comprising: a step of correcting information on the supply time of the detergent based on the calculated usage per unit time and the amount of detergent determined under the washing conditions, if there is a difference in the comparison results.

13. In paragraph 9, When a user operation to start washing is input, a step of identifying washing conditions; A step of identifying the supply time of the detergent set to correspond to the above washing conditions; When the remaining amount of the detergent is input, a step of calculating the amount consumed during the supply time based on the amount used per unit time, comparing the calculated amount with the input remaining amount, and determining whether the washing is possible; and A control method further comprising: a step of performing the washing while supplying the detergent into the washing tub during the supply time if the washing is determined to be possible; and outputting a notification message requesting replenishment of the detergent if the washing is determined to be impossible.

14. In paragraph 13, A control method further comprising: a step of displaying the number of wash cycles.

15. In paragraph 13, A step of receiving and storing information about the number of reference times set in a user terminal device; and A control method further comprising: a step of transmitting a notification signal to the user terminal device when the number of washable cycles reaches the reference number of cycles.

Images