Washing machine and method for operating a washing machine

Abstract

The invention relates to a washing machine (11), having a housing (12), a drum-accommodating container with a rotatable drum therein, a drive motor for the drum, a door (14) and a structural unit (18) which can be moved out of the housing and has functional units such as a pump (25), valves (24a, 24b), filters (21) and water lines for the washing machine. The washing machine has a mobile and independently handleable sensor unit (40) which, although it can be arranged and fastened fixedly in the housing (12) of the washing machine (11) in the structural unit (18) which can be moved out of the housing, can also be released and removed. The sensor unit has a vibration sensor (147), an energy source (48), a radio connection (51) for signal transmission of sensor data to the outside and / or an internal memory (50) for storing data of the sensor (47). Unusual vibrations or noises in the washing machine (11) can be recorded by means of the sensor unit (40) for fault analysis. After repair, the sensor unit (40) can be easily removed again and used for further fault analysis at a different location.

Description

[0001] Washing machine and method for operating a washing machine

[0002] Area of ​​application and state of the art

[0003] The invention relates to a washing machine and a method for operating a washing machine, in particular for repairing it.

[0004] EP 4 086 383 A1 discloses a washing machine in which a pull-out drawer with components is arranged in the lower area. This drawer can be equipped with a special lock so that it can only be pulled out a certain distance. After releasing the lock, possibly only by a service technician, it can be pulled out completely. The functional units / components inside can then be repaired or replaced.

[0005] EP 4 212 741 A1 discloses equipping valve units for controlling fluid flows with sensors designed as structure-borne sound sensors for detecting a structure-borne sound signal. This allows the operation of the valve units to be monitored in order to record specific events and data relating to the operating behavior of the valve unit during its service life. This allows for condition monitoring and early failure diagnosis.

[0006] Task and solution

[0007] The invention is based on the object of creating a washing machine as mentioned above and a method for operating such a washing machine, with which problems of the prior art can be avoided and in particular it is possible to monitor the operation of the washing machine or the functionality of functional units of the washing machine and preferably to enable a more targeted repair in the event of a problem being identified.

[0008] This object is achieved by a washing machine mentioned above with the features of claim 1 and by a method with the features of claim 11. Advantageous and preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the further claims and are explained in more detail below. Some of the features are described only for the washing machine or only for the method. However, they are intended to be able to apply independently and independently of one another to both the washing machine and the method. The wording of the claims is incorporated into the description by express reference.

[0009] The washing machine comprises a housing, a drum receptacle within the housing in which a rotatable drum is arranged, a drive motor for driving the drum including a power supply for the drive motor, and a door within the housing providing access to the drum receptacle and the drum. The door can be opened and closed in the usual way. The washing machine further comprises a structural unit movable out of the housing along a direction of movement, according to the aforementioned EP 4 086 383 A1, said structural unit comprising functional units selected from the group consisting of a pump, valves, filters, and water lines for the washing machine.

[0010] According to the invention, the washing machine comprises a mobile and independently manageable sensor assembly that can be permanently arranged and fastened in the washing machine or in the housing of the washing machine. Preferably, it is arranged and fastened in the removable assembly, or the sensor assembly can also be detached and removed from the washing machine. The sensor assembly essentially comprises a vibration sensor and / or a microphone, which can serve as the actual sensor. Furthermore, it comprises a power source, for example a rechargeable battery or a battery. Furthermore, it comprises communication means for signal-transmitting communication of sensor data, in particular from within the housing of the washing machine to the outside.Alternatively or additionally, it has an internal memory for storing data from the sensor, in which case it advantageously also has electrical contacts for an interface, particularly advantageously with a plug connection.

[0011] The aforementioned communication means for transmitting signal data from the sensor to the outside world are advantageously designed wirelessly, in particular as a radio connection using a common radio standard such as WLAN, Bluetooth or BLE, ZigBee or the like. Radio signals from the sensor unit can be transmitted outside the washing machine, for example to a computer or notebook, or alternatively to a mobile device such as a tablet or smartphone. Above all, these mobile devices can receive the radio signals using a specially installed app and evaluate them in the app, which is designed as a program. This can be done interactively together with an operator. At the same time, a problem or error analysis can be carried out; if necessary, a replacement part can be ordered immediately, a service technician can be called, or a repair order can be initiated.With such a wireless connection, the sensor unit can be left in the washing machine for a longer period of time, as the collected data can still be easily read and used.

[0012] In the other embodiment, in which the sensor unit has an internal memory as described above, it can be provided that it is arranged in the washing machine or its housing in such a way that this memory can be read out, so to speak. For this purpose, a cable can be plugged into a connector on the sensor unit in order to read out the memory and use the data, for example in a corresponding program on a notebook connected to the other end of the cable. This may be somewhat more complex to use, but technically it involves the least effort. It also allows further program data to be easily read out from a washing machine control system. The sensor unit can then remain in the washing machine and continue to collect data. Alternatively, the sensor unit can be removed in order to read out the data and then stored outside the washing machine for this purpose via a cable or similar.can be connected to a notebook, for example.

[0013] In a further development of the invention, the washing machine can have a fixing connection arrangement which establishes a mechanical and, if appropriate, materially bonded and / or positively locking connection of the structural unit or the sensor structural unit to the housing or to the housing wall itself and / or to housing struts running within the housing. Such a housing wall is advantageously an outer wall or side wall, particularly advantageously a rear wall of the washing machine. Vibrations are strongest at the rear wall, as has been shown within the scope of the invention, particularly vibrations caused by the drive motor. In this respect, it is the best source if these vibrations are to be recorded by the sensor structural unit for evaluation. The fixing connection device is preferably designed to be detachable in order to release the connection of the structural unit / sensor structural unit to the housing.

[0014] In one embodiment of the invention, the fixing connection arrangement serves to connect the structural unit directly to the housing or to a housing wall or housing strut. The structural unit thus sits directly on the housing or on the housing wall and is arranged and fastened thereto. The fixing connection arrangement can have a screw connection or a snap-in connection by means of which the fastening is carried out. In a simple embodiment, an internal thread or a snap-in receptacle can be arranged on the housing wall, while a screw is provided on a projection of the structural unit or a snap-in projection is provided on the structural unit. Alternatively, the fixing connection arrangement can be designed for an adhesive connection, for example, have double-sided adhesive tape, in order to glue the structural unit directly to the housing wall.The double-sided adhesive tape can also be removable, as is the case with corresponding adhesive bonds for fastening hooks in the household.

[0015] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fixing connection arrangement is fixedly mounted on the housing and / or on the removable assembly, thus preferably being non-detachable. For this purpose, the fixing connection arrangement can have a controllable drive, which is designed in particular as an electromagnet or an electromagnetically actuated actuator, as an expansion material actuator, or with a shape memory alloy, whereby the latter can be heated in a targeted manner. For this purpose, targeted heating by means of a heating element can be provided. The drive can thus establish the connection to the housing of the washing machine, thus in a targeted manner.

[0016] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the washing machine has a locking mechanism for the removable assembly, in particular arranged on the removable assembly. This locking mechanism is designed such that the assembly can only be removed or pulled out of the housing after the locking mechanism has been released, can only be pulled out at all, or can only be pulled out completely. Particularly advantageously, in a first embodiment, the locking mechanism can be designed such that it is manually accessible and releasable from the outside. In a second embodiment, the locking mechanism can be formed by the aforementioned fixing connection arrangement, which then locks the removable assembly in the housing.It is designed to be form-fitting in such a way that it forms a direct, material-to-material connection between the housing of the washing machine or housing struts of the washing machine and the movable-out structural unit. For this purpose, the locking mechanism can preferably have, on the one hand, a locking pin including drive and, on the other hand, a pin hole, wherein the locking pin and the pin hole are designed such that the locking pin is firmly arranged in the pin hole in a locking position. In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the locking pin in the pin hole has no freedom of movement in the direction of movement of the movable-out structural unit, i.e. in the direction of the structural unit out of the housing. The pin hole can, for example, be provided on a protruding projection or arm, which can protrude from the movable structural unit.Advantageously, a locking pin can be moved into and out of the pin hole by an aforementioned drive, depending on whether the assembly is to be moved out of the washing machine. For locking, it can advantageously be provided that in the locked position, a positive fit, preferably also a mechanical stop, is provided in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement. Such a positive fit can preferably be provided by an externally conical design of the locking pin and a correspondingly internally conical design of the pin hole. A positive fit can be a round conical design; alternatively, other shapes such as a Phillips head, external polygon, or in the manner of a Torx screw head can be used.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a locking mechanism can also provide two locking pins that can be moved independently of one another. A separate drive is thus provided for each locking pin, as previously mentioned. They can be inserted into the same pin hole; alternatively, each locking pin can have its own pin hole. Preferably, the locking pins can be moved in opposite directions, or an aforementioned projection or arm, on which the at least one pin hole is provided, is located between the two locking pins. A first locking pin, including its pin hole, can be conical, as previously described.A second locking pin, including its mortise, can be cylindrical and, in particular, have some play in its mortise, allowing it to be inserted more easily into the mortise with a slightly greater fit tolerance, without requiring 100% precise positioning. In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the two locking pins can insert into the same mortise, with this mortise then being precisely designed to fit the first locking pin in accordance with its conical configuration. Towards the second locking pin, the mortise can be straight, in particular with a 5% to 30% larger diameter or cross-section than the second locking pin itself.

[0018] In a further development of the invention, the washing machine has a washing machine control unit connected to a drive for the locking mechanism, thus controlling the locking or unlocking mechanism. The washing machine control unit can preferably also be connected to the sensor unit for signal transmission, for example, to receive the data from the sensor unit, to forward it, or to start the sensor unit even if it does not receive the data itself. The washing machine control unit advantageously also controls all other functional units of the washing machine, such as the aforementioned drive motor as well as valves, pumps, or the like, as its primary function.

[0019] In one embodiment of the invention, the sensor assembly can be permanently integrated into the removable assembly, so that it can be removed from the washing machine's housing together with the assembly. It can, for example, be screwed in place, as previously described for the fixing connection arrangement. However, this requires the expense of permanently installing a sensor assembly in each washing machine or in its removable assembly, regardless of whether it is actually intended to be used.

[0020] In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the sensor assembly can be attached to the removable unit without tools. For this purpose, a bayonet lock, a snap-in connection, a magnetic connection, or a removable adhesive tape can be provided, as previously described. This allows the sensor assembly to be easily installed in the removable unit if it is to be used for functional analysis or fault analysis. After the analysis and, if necessary, repair of the washing machine have been completed, the sensor assembly can be removed again. For example, it can be returned to an analysis or repair service or to the washing machine manufacturer so that it can then be reinstalled in a new location.

[0021] In a method according to the invention for operating a washing machine described above, the sensor assembly is initially located in or on the housing of the washing machine, or it is fixedly arranged on the removable assembly. It can either already be fixedly arranged there, or it is arranged there by an operator, for example because they have requested the sensor assembly for analysis, as explained in more detail below. The assembly can then be pushed or moved back into the washing machine. Subsequently, the previously described locking connection between the assembly and the housing of the washing machine is established. Advantageously, this is not just a locking device that prevents the assembly from being pulled out of the washing machine, but a positive locking device, as explained above.The sensor can then be used to record vibrations from the washing machine, advantageously during normal operation of the washing machine, particularly advantageous either over at least one normal wash cycle including laundry or for a specific analysis cycle according to a specific analysis program. The recorded vibrations can then be transmitted as signals or data either via a signal-transmitting connection to a washing machine control system or to a receiver located outside the washing machine or saved in a separate internal memory for later use or evaluation. A functional analysis of the washing machine can then be carried out using the recorded signals or data from the sensor and by comparing them with specified data. For this to happen, the data from the sensor must first be transferred to a suitable device, e.g. a computer.However, this is easy and can be done in different ways, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor unit is connected to a mobile device as a receiver in a signal-transmitting manner, in particular via radio such as WLAN, Bluetooth or BLE. For this purpose, the sensor unit can have its own power supply and a corresponding sensor for the relevant radio standard. Such a wireless radio connection has the advantage that it is easy to set up without direct intervention and is possible at any time, since the sensor unit can remain in the washing machine, even while the washing machine is in operation, i.e., live. A signal-transmitting connection via cable or the like is also possible, but is complex to establish. This is virtually impossible while the washing machine is in operation.

[0023] In a further development of the invention, preprocessing of the signals or data can already take place in the sensor module before they are sent to the mobile device. This reduces the data volume and facilitates processing or evaluation in the device.

[0024] In an alternative advantageous embodiment of the invention, the sensor module stores data in its internal memory during operation of the washing machine, which corresponds to the sensor signals or is derived from these signals. Only after the sensor module has been removed from the washing machine can it be connected to a receiver for signal transmission, preferably through direct electrical contact via an interface or similar device, e.g., a cable. The stored data is then transmitted to the receiver for evaluation and to identify a possible fault or mechanical problem in the washing machine.

[0025] After installing the sensor unit in the washing machine or in the removable unit, the washing machine can run with a predefined analysis program or in a special mode, whereby the analysis program is carried out without adding laundry to the drum and the washing machine is operated in this mode. The analysis program can have defined time specifications for a direction of rotation and / or specifications for a rotation speed of the drum.

[0026] In a further development of the invention, an analysis program can be selected in a selection menu on the washing machine's control unit, preferably only after entering a specific input code on the washing machine. This ensures that it is not started accidentally. It can also be provided that only qualified technicians know the input code and thus start the analysis program.

[0027] These and other features emerge not only from the claims but also from the description and the drawings. The individual features may be implemented individually or in combination in an embodiment of the invention and in other fields, and may represent advantageous and individually protectable embodiments for which protection is claimed here. The division of the application into individual sections and subheadings does not limit the generality of the statements made therein.

[0028] Brief description of the drawings

[0029] Embodiments of the invention are illustrated schematically in the drawings and explained in more detail below. The drawings show:

[0030] Fig. 1 is an oblique view of a washing machine according to the invention with a partially pulled-out drawer unit in the lower area,

[0031] Fig. 2a is an enlarged view of the lower part of the washing machine from Fig. 1 with the drawer unit pulled out even further,

[0032] Fig. 2b is a view of the lower part of the washing machine from Fig. 1 with the drawer unit slightly pulled out,

[0033] Fig. 3 Representation of a sensor assembly according to the invention, which is attached to the drawer assembly by means of a snap connection,

[0034] Fig. 4 shows an alternative fastening of the sensor assembly to the drawer assembly using double-sided adhesive tape,

[0035] Fig. 5 is a representation of a so-called free drawer assembly with a mortise support arranged at the rear end for locking the drawer assembly in the washing machine,

[0036] Fig. 6 an enlarged view of a locking device with the mortise carrier between two mortise actuators in the double-locked state,

[0037] Fig. 7 is a view of the locking mechanism from the other side, showing how each pin actuator is locked to a differently shaped pin on the mortise support,

[0038] Fig. 8 is a highly simplified representation of a process of analyzing the washing machine using a separate sensor unit,

[0039] Fig. 9 is a more complex illustration similar to Fig. 8, and Fig. 10 is an even more complex illustration of troubleshooting using the sensor assembly according to the invention.

[0040] Detailed description of the implementation examples

[0041] Fig. 1 shows an oblique view of a washing machine 11 according to the invention. The washing machine 11 has, as usual, a housing 12 with a front side 13, which is essentially occupied by a conventional door 14 and a control panel 15 arranged above it. Control elements (not shown in more detail) including an operating display are provided on the control panel 15. Furthermore, a washing machine control 16 is schematically indicated, which can be arranged behind the control panel 15 or on its inside. Alternatively, it can be arranged elsewhere in the washing machine 11, for example close to an inverter for a drive motor (not shown but of course present) for a drum behind the door 14. This corresponds to a conventional design of the washing machine.

[0042] The washing machine control 16 advantageously assumes all the functions of a conventional washing machine control, thus controlling all processes in the washing machine 11 that typically occur in a washing machine. The further function according to the invention with the sensor unit and / or with a locking mechanism can advantageously also be controlled by the washing machine control 16. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0043] The washing machine 11 has a drawer assembly 18 in the lower area on the front side 13, which can be moved or pulled out. The drawer assembly 18 essentially has a base surface 19 including a front side 20 (see also Fig. 5), which shows the raw component, so to speak). With regard to such a drawer assembly, reference is made to the aforementioned EP 4 086 383 A1. The drawer assembly 18 has functional units such as those typically found in a washing machine, but which may be prone to maintenance or repair and their arrangements on or on the pull-out drawer assembly 18 are much easier to reach. These functional units include, for example, a large filter 21, which can be reached by means of a screw cap 22 on the front side 20 even without pulling out the drawer assembly 18, for example for cleaning.Furthermore, lines are provided, for example line 27, which can possibly also be formed integrally on the base surface 19, as well as two valves 24a and 24b, see also Figs. 2a and 2b for clarification. A pump 25 is provided to pump water into a water supply of the washing machine 11, in particular also through the lines shown here. The drawer assembly 18 can be connected to other water lines within the washing machine 11, for example, using hoses, which are not shown here but can be plugged onto two hose connectors 26 at the front right. The line 27 leads, for example, from the filter 21 to the pump 25. This pump 25 can also have an integrated heating device, as is known from the prior art.

[0044] At the rear of the drawer assembly 18 or on the base surface 19, a mortise support 28 is shown as part of a locking mechanism for the drawer assembly 18 in the washing machine 11, the design and arrangement of which can be seen even more clearly in Figs. 5 to 7. It forms the fixing connection arrangement mentioned above. The mortise support 28 has a mortise 29 in a thickened area at the top. According to Fig. 7, this is designed on one side as a circular-cylindrical mortise 29a. On the other side, this is designed as a conically recessed mortise 29b, with the two mortises 29a and 29b merging into one another or a continuous mortise 29 being provided. The mortise support 28, in turn, is fastened, for example screwed, to a rearwardly projecting section of the drawer assembly 18 by means of a retaining bracket 30.The arrangement and also the design of the mortise support 28 with the upper thickened area including the mortise 29, which projects backwards over the base surface 19, ensures that the locking mechanism formed thereby is as far back or deep as possible in the housing 12 of the washing machine 11.

[0045] Two pin actuators 32a and 32b are also provided for locking, which can be seen primarily in Figs. 6 and 7. The pin actuators 32a and 32b can, in principle, be of similar design. Each pin actuator 32a and 32b has a connecting cable 33a and 33b and, above all, a locking pin 35a and 35b. These locking pins can be elongated and round-cylindrical. Such a pin actuator 32 is particularly advantageously designed as an electromagnet, as is generally known for such locking mechanisms. Fig. 7 shows the extended position of the locking pins 35a and 35b, namely into the pin holes 29a and 29b, respectively. To unlock the drawer assembly 18 and pull it out of the washing machine 11, the two pin actuators 32a and 32b pull the locking pins 35a and 35b inward, respectively, thus releasing the mortise support 28. This is the unlocking process.The movement of the locking pins 35a and 35b can occur against an internal spring. As long as the drawer assembly 18 is pulled out, they remain activated or hold the locking pins 35 in this position. They therefore require energy, so to speak. If the drawer assembly 18 is pushed back in, which can be detected by additional contact switches or the like in a known manner, this is detected, and the pin actuators 32a and 32b then move the locking pins 35a and 35b back into the pin holes 29a and 29b to lock the drawer assembly 18. As an alternative to electromagnets, servomotors, either with gears or as linear motors, could also be provided.

[0046] The pin actuators 32a and 32b are each attached to a bracket 38a and 38b, which in turn are attached inside the housing 12 of the washing machine 11. They can advantageously be attached to an interior housing strut or, as shown here, to a rear housing wall.

[0047] In itself, a locking mechanism for the drawer assembly 18 to prevent it from being pulled out doesn't need to fulfill any additional function; it can actually be very simple and doesn't even need to fit particularly precisely. This is a function primarily fulfilled by the pin actuator 32b with its straight locking pin 35b. The corresponding pin hole 29b is also straight and noticeably somewhat larger than the locking pin 35b itself. Thus, there is a certain amount of play here, but this is not a problem; the locking function is achieved or guaranteed in any case.

[0048] However, in order to best couple a sensor assembly for detecting vibrations, which is arranged in or on the drawer assembly 18, according to the invention, it is considered advantageous to couple this drawer assembly even better to vibrations or shocks that occur during operation of the washing machine 11, for example due to problems or damage to a bearing for the drum, to the drive motor for the drum, or to the pump 25. A more direct coupling is therefore more advantageous. Therefore, the pin actuator 32 has a locking pin 35a, onto which a conical attachment 36a is placed, glued, or provided. This conical attachment 36a precisely matches the shape of the conical pin hole 29a. Furthermore, the locking pin 35a or the conical attachment 36a can abut or rest against the other locking pin 35b, thus ensuring a good connection and positional stability.Through this firm and positive connection, vibrations of the washing machine 11 or from the housing 12, in particular a housing rear wall, can be transmitted via the mounting bracket 38 and especially the mounting bracket 38a as well as the pin actuator 32a, the locking pin 35a and the conical attachment 36a to the mortise support 28 and, together with the mounting bracket 30, to the drawer assembly 18. This in turn advantageously enables a sensor assembly 40 to be arranged on the drawer assembly 18 or thereon, as explained above. Here, the sensor assembly 40 is arranged on an integrally formed water line according to Fig. 2a, i.e., very firmly coupled to it, so to speak. This mounting location has the advantage that, according to Fig.2 is easily accessible when the drawer assembly 18 is pulled out, but then does not interfere with the operation of the washing machine 11 and cannot be damaged, while still being located in a defined and highly suitable location for detecting noises or vibrations. Alternatively, the sensor assembly 40 could also be attached to the inside of one of the side walls of the housing 12, accessible when the drawer assembly 18 is pulled out. However, even then, these are relatively difficult to reach, which is why such an arrangement of the sensor assembly 40 is considered very advantageous.

[0049] Instead of a mechanical coupling for better and more precise function of the sensor assembly by means of a locking mechanism, a fixed stop could also simply be provided, i.e. if the drawer assembly 18 rests firmly and, so to speak, permanently against the housing 12 of the washing machine 11 with its front side 20 or the rear end of the base surface 19. The advantage of combining the mechanical coupling on the one hand and a locking mechanism according to Figs. 6 and 7 on the other hand is that, on the one hand, this can be provided at one location and, on the other hand, that this mechanical coupling is, so to speak, releasable, particularly when, as shown in Fig. 7, the pin actuator 32a pulls the locking pin 35a together with the conical attachment 36a out of the conical pin hole 29a. This would also reduce the transmission of vibrations into the drawer assembly 18, in order to place less strain on the functional units arranged there.For this purpose, it may also be provided to design the pin actuator 32a differently than the pin actuator 32b, which is primarily responsible for locking. Thus, a non-activated or energy-free position of the pin actuator 32a may be such that the locking pin 35a, including the conical attachment 36a, is moved out of the pin hole 29a.

[0050] The slightly different perspective view with the sectional view in Fig. 2b shows, with the drawer assembly 18 only slightly extended, that the mortise support 28 has been moved just a few centimeters out of a locking position between the two mortise actuators 32a and 32b. These mortise actuators 32a and 32b are attached to a rear wall of the housing with brackets 38a and 38b.

[0051] A sensor assembly 40 according to the invention is shown in simplified form and cut away in Fig. 3. The sensor assembly 40 has a housing 41 and is box-like or block-like in this case. It has a sensor controller 46 inside, advantageously with a microcontroller for processing signals from a sensor 47, which is designed here as a microphone. It can thus record vibrations of the washing machine 11 or one of its functional units and transmit them for further processing by the sensor controller 46. The sensor controller 46 is also connected to a battery 48 as an energy source. Furthermore, it has a memory 50, which can be designed separately or can also be integrated. In addition, the sensor controller 46 is connected to a radio device 51 as a communication means according to the invention or as an interface to the outside. This radio device 51 can also be integrated into the sensor 47 if necessary.It can be designed in different ways, for example for radio communication via Bluetooth or BLE.

[0052] During operation, the sensor controller 46 can be configured such that it begins to evaluate and, if necessary, store signals from the sensor 47 only upon external request, advantageously via a radio connection using the radio device 51. Alternatively, it can be activated by signals coming from the sensor 47 that are advantageously above a certain signal threshold.

[0053] Using the radio device 51, the sensor unit 40 can communicate, for example, with a corresponding radio interface in a smartphone 55, which is shown here in simplified form. A program mentioned above can run on the smartphone 55 to read data from the sensor unit 40 for analysis or forwarding. Alternatively, something can also be transmitted to the sensor unit 40 or to the sensor controller 46.

[0054] A snap-in connection is provided for fastening the sensor assembly 40 to or in the drawer assembly 18, specifically here to the top of a water line 27 as shown in Fig. 2, which is an integral component of the drawer assembly 18 and can thus transmit all of its vibrations to the sensor assembly 40. The line can be formed as one piece with the drawer assembly 18 or with the base surface 19 and can be manufactured, for example, by 3D printing or, alternatively, by plastic injection molding. For the snap-in connection, two downwardly beveled snap-in projections 42a and 42b are provided on opposite side surfaces of the housing 41. They snap or engage below snap-in edges of snap-in arms 44a and 44b. These snap-in arms 44a and 44b are arranged or molded onto the top of the line 27, for example, glued thereon or formed therein by plastic injection molding.Such a snap-in connection is very easy to manufacture, allowing the sensor assembly 40 to be installed in the washing machine 11 only when needed, i.e., for a definite or suspected fault analysis. Figure 3 shows that it is very easy to attach the sensor assembly 40 to the top of the line 27 using snap-in connections. This attachment is also designed such that it cannot come loose automatically and, above all, is also very well designed as a mechanical coupling. The snap-in connection can be released just as easily when the sensor assembly 40 is no longer needed or when a fault in the washing machine 11 has been identified and remedied after analysis.

[0055] As an alternative to such protruding locking arms 44a and 44b, a locking device can also be designed considerably simpler and flatter on top of the cable 27. However, this is easily modified by a person skilled in the art with appropriate provisions.

[0056] An alternative attachment of a sensor assembly 140 to the top of a line 27 is shown in Fig. 4. Here, a housing 141 of the sensor assembly 140 is adhered to the top of the line 27 using double-sided adhesive tape 145. With this type of double-sided adhesive tape 145, removal may be somewhat more difficult, or the sensor assembly 140 including the housing 141 must be loosened or torn off with some force. However, this can still be done without tools. If the double-sided adhesive tape 145 is destroyed in the process, which is likely, this is not a problem. It can then be removed from both the underside of the housing 141 and the top of the line 27. The double-sided adhesive tape 27 should be as thin as possible and have the best possible vibration-damping properties in order to impair or disrupt signal reception at the sensor as little as possible.

[0057] Another special feature of the sensor assembly 140 according to Fig. 4 is that it has a vibration sensor 147 instead of the microphone 47 from Fig. 3. Furthermore, it has a connector 153 at the top of the housing 141 as an external interface. This connector 153, which can also be designed as a socket and, in particular, can be designed according to a common format such as one of the USB formats, serves to read data or signals from a previously described memory to an evaluation device, for example, a mobile device on the one hand or a notebook on the other. This advantageously takes place either during breaks in operation of the washing machine 11, namely with the drawer assembly 18 pulled out, or after the sensor assembly 140 has been removed.

[0058] A possible process flow is shown in simplified form in Fig. 8. Here, an operator may suspect that their washing machine is no longer functioning properly, for example, because it is emitting an unusual noise, the washing results are no longer satisfactory, or because a manufacturer or rental company of the washing machine 11 has identified a specific or routine need for analysis. The latter can also be achieved by monitoring a so-called digital twin, as is evident from US 2024 / 0150953 A1, to which explicit reference is hereby made.

[0059] A sensor assembly 40 similar to Fig. 3 is sent to the operator along with operating instructions. The operator can then install the sensor assembly 40 into the washing machine 11, which is easily done. In one embodiment of such an analysis, it can be provided that the operator does not actively perform any data readout. The installed sensor remains in the washing machine for a specific duration, advantageously for multiple wash cycles. These can also be provided to the operator in written instructions, for example, for wash programs with long and intensive or rapid spin cycles.

[0060] Advantageously, an operator installs a specific app on a smartphone, which communicates via a radio interface, advantageously via Bluetooth, in the smartphone with the sensor assembly 40 or its radio device 51, which is designed for this purpose. In this way, a result of an analysis phase, i.e. during a washing process or operation of the washing machine 11, can be communicated to the operator via the smartphone either once after completion or repeatedly. The operator can then use the app to evaluate this result themselves and, if necessary, initiate repairs. Alternatively, they can also forward the result directly to a specified repair service to request assistance. After the repair, the sensor assembly 40 can then be removed from the washing machine again, as previously described, possibly after a further test to determine whether the repair was actually successful.Alternatively, the sensor assembly can be removed prior to the repair, after notifying a repair service. Another possible alternative is to remove it during the repair, i.e., once components such as a drum bearing or similar have been replaced.

[0061] Fig. 9 shows a further process in which a critical situation has first been diagnosed, for example because a washing machine is actually making unusual noises. There are then several possibilities, for example if an operator first attempts to repair the washing machine themselves. If they have identified the fault themselves and were able to repair it, the problem is solved. If they either did not identify the fault themselves or called a repair service straight away, the service service can, in addition to inspecting the washing machine, attempt a repair during an on-site appointment. Alternatively, either the operator themselves or a service technician can request a sensor or a sensor assembly 40, which the operator then installs for analysis as shown in Fig. 8. Alternatively, a service technician can already carry such a sensor assembly and install it themselves for analysis.

[0062] Fig. 10 then shows in detail and in a largely self-explanatory manner how to proceed after positioning the sensor according to Fig. 9. The steps that are particularly important here are those when the sensor unit is detected either by the washing machine 11 itself or its washing machine control system 16, which can then be shown, for example, in an operating display on the control panel 15. Alternatively, an analysis is carried out using a smartphone with an app installed on it. For this purpose, the drawer unit 18 is locked, and several operating modes can then be carried out, possibly in combination. During this time, a diagnosis is carried out. This can take several hours or even several days, depending on whether the washing machine is operated once or several times.After the data recorded by the sensor unit has been output, either by removing the sensor unit and reading it or via a radio connection, the unit can either be repaired or removed by a service technician or by the operator themselves. Of course, this requires that the lock be released beforehand, which can be done either on the control panel 15 of the washing machine 11 itself or by controlling the washing machine using a smartphone. Alternatively, the sensor unit can remain in the washing machine for future analysis. However, it is advantageous to remove it and then reuse it directly elsewhere. After opening the drawer unit 18 and removing the sensor, the drawer unit 18 can be pushed back in and possibly locked, for which the pin actuator 32b with the straight locking pin 35b is sufficient.The sensor assembly can then be repacked and returned for further use elsewhere.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Washing machine with: a housing, a drum receiving container in the housing, wherein a rotatable drum is arranged in the drum receiving container, a drive motor for driving the drum including a power supply for the drive motor, a door in the housing as access to the drum receiving container and the drum, wherein the door can be opened and closed, a structural unit that can be moved out of the housing along a direction of movement, wherein the structural unit has functional units selected from the group consisting of a pump, valves, filters and water lines for the washing machine, characterized in that: the washing machine has a mobile and independently manageable sensor structural unit, wherein the sensor structural unit: can be permanently arranged and fastened in the washing machine or in the housing of the washing machine, preferably in the structural unit that can be moved out, and is detachable and removable.the sensor assembly comprises: a vibration sensor and / or a microphone as a sensor, an energy source,. Communication means for signal-transmitting communication of sensor data and / or an internal memory for storing sensor data.

2. Washing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the washing machine has a fixing connection arrangement which establishes a mechanical connection of the structural unit or the sensor structural unit with the housing or with the housing wall and / or with housing struts running within the housing, wherein preferably the fixing connection device is detachable to release the connection of the structural unit or the sensor structural unit with the housing.

3. Washing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that the fixing connection arrangement is fixedly arranged on the housing and / or on the movable-out unit, wherein preferably the fixing connection arrangement has a controllable able drive, in particular an electromagnet or a shape memory alloy, which establishes the connection with the housing of the washing machine.

4. Washing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the washing machine has a lock for the movable-out unit such that the unit can only be removed from the housing after the lock has been released, wherein the lock is preferably arranged on the movable-out unit such that it can be reached and released manually from the outside.

5. Washing machine according to claim 4 and according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the fixing connection arrangement forms the locking of the movable-out structural unit in the housing and is positively locking in such a way that it forms a direct material connection between the housing of the washing machine or housing struts of the washing machine and the movable-out structural unit.

6. Washing machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the locking device has, on the one hand, a locking pin and, on the other hand, a pin hole, wherein the locking pin and the pin hole are designed such that the locking pin is fixedly arranged in the pin hole in a locking position without freedom of movement in the direction of movement of the movable-out structural unit.

7. Washing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that in the locking position a positive connection is provided in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, preferably by an externally conical design of the locking pin and a correspondingly internally conical design of the pin hole.

8. Washing machine according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that it has a washing machine control which is connected to a drive for the locking mechanism, wherein the washing machine control is preferably also connected to the sensor unit in a signal-transmitting manner.

9. Washing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor unit is firmly integrated into the unit which can be moved out of the housing.

10. Washing machine according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the sensor assembly is mounted without tools in the assembly which can be moved out of the housing can be fastened, preferably with a bayonet lock, a snap connection, a magnetic connection or a removable adhesive tape.

11. Method for operating a washing machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor unit, in the state fixedly arranged on the movable unit, and after the locking between the unit and the housing of the washing machine has been established, records vibrations of the washing machine by means of the sensor and either transmits them via a signal-transmitting connection to a control system of the washing machine or to a receiver arranged outside the washing machine or stores them as a signal in a separate memory for later use, wherein a functional analysis of the washing machine is carried out from the recorded data of the sensor and by comparison with specified data.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that the sensor unit is connected to a mobile terminal as a receiver in a signal-transmitting manner, in particular via radio such as WLAN, Bluetooth or BLE, wherein the data is preferably pre-processed in the sensor unit before being sent to the mobile terminal.

13. Method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the sensor unit stores data in the internal memory during operation of the washing machine, wherein after removal of the sensor unit from the washing machine, the sensor unit is connected to a receiver in a signal-transmitting manner, preferably by direct electrical contact by means of an interface or the like, and the stored data are transmitted to the receiver for evaluation.

14. Method according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that after installation of the sensor unit in the washing machine or in the removable unit, the washing machine is operated with a predefined analysis program, wherein the analysis program is carried out without adding laundry to the drum, wherein the analysis program has defined time specifications for a direction of rotation and / or specifications for a rotational speed of the drum.

15. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that an analysis program can be selected in a selection menu of the washing machine control system, preferably only after entering a specific input code on the washing machine.

Images