Washing machine configured to perform washing and drying and method for displaying information thereby

Abstract

Disclosed is a washing machine capable of performing a washing function and a drying function. The washing machine detects the weight of laundry through at least one sensor if a washing function and a drying function are configured in a state in which laundry is introduced and contained in a drum through an opening, and displays multiple indicators respectively corresponding to a washing time and a drying time, respectively, calculated on the basis of configuration information and the detected weight. The washing machine may individually change the display state of at least one of the multiple indicators according to the degree of progress of the washing operation and the drying operation. Accordingly, the user is easily aware of the state in which the washing function and the drying function are performed.

Description

Washing machine for washing and drying and method for displaying information thereon

[0001] The present invention relates to a washing machine that performs washing and drying and an information display method that displays related information.

[0002] Thanks to the advancement of electronic technology, the number of dryers that only perform drying is increasing in addition to conventional washing machines.

[0003] Users who purchased and used a washing machine and dryer separately had the inconvenience of having to wash the laundry in the washing machine first, then take it out and put it in the dryer again to dry it.

[0004] Accordingly, integrated washing machines capable of sequentially performing washing and drying functions within a single device are being developed. In these machines, the sequential execution of washing and drying functions inevitably increases the total time compared to conventional washing or drying-only machines. Consequently, the need for technology capable of effectively providing users with progress information and other relevant information during both washing and drying has emerged.

[0005] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine capable of performing a washing function and a drying function includes a cabinet including an opening for loading laundry, a tub disposed inside the cabinet, a drum disposed in a rotatable manner within the tub, a display disposed on one side of the cabinet, a memory, at least one sensor, and a processor. Here, the processor may control the display to individually change a display state of at least one of the plurality of indicators depending on the progress of the work when the washing function and the drying function are set while laundry is loaded and accommodated in the drum through the opening, store the setting information in the memory, detect the weight of the laundry through the at least one sensor, and calculate the washing time and the drying time based on the setting information and the detected weight, and sequentially perform the washing operation and the drying operation based on the setting information.

[0006] A display method of a washing machine according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step of storing setting information when a washing function and a drying function are set while laundry is placed and stored in a drum of the washing machine, a step of detecting the weight of the laundry using at least one sensor, a step of displaying a plurality of indicators each corresponding to a washing time and a drying time calculated based on the setting information and the detected weight, and a step of individually changing a display state of at least one of the plurality of indicators according to a progress degree of the work when a washing operation and a drying operation are sequentially performed based on the setting information.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the appearance of a washing machine according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0008] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a washing machine according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of a washing machine according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining a method for calculating washing time and drying time according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIGS. 5 to 12 are drawings for explaining the information display operation of a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, and

[0012] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an information display method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] The terms used in the various embodiments of this disclosure have been selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of this disclosure. However, these terms may vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Furthermore, in certain cases, terms may be arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the description of the relevant disclosure. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of this disclosure, rather than simply their names.

[0014] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in the present disclosure to specific embodiments, but include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0015] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0016] 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.

[0017] In this disclosure, 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 the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0018] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0019] 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).

[0020] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the present disclosure, 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] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings below.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating the exterior of a washing machine according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. A washing machine may be a device that performs laundry tasks such as washing, rinsing, and dehydrating laundry.

[0025] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the exterior appearance of a front-loading washing machine in which the opening for loading laundry is positioned so that it faces forward. 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 washing machine (100) of FIG. 1 can perform not only washing but also drying of laundry loaded into a single opening (20). Such a washing machine may also be referred to as a clothing treatment device, an integrated washing machine, or a washing and drying device. In the present disclosure, laundry may include not only clothing but also various items such as blankets, fabrics, and shoes.

[0026] According to FIG. 1, a washing machine (100) may include a cabinet (10), an opening (20) formed on one side of the cabinet, and a display (110). To perform a drying operation, the washing machine (100) may further include various components, such as a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum, and a condensation device for removing moisture from air discharged from the drum. A detailed description thereof will be provided again in detail in the following section.

[0027] The cabinet (10) is a part that forms the exterior of the washing machine (100) and may also be referred to as a housing, a main body, etc. As shown in Fig. 1, the cabinet (10) may be implemented in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, but its shape is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0028] An opening (20) may be formed on the front of the cabinet (10). The opening (20) may be connected to a tub inside the cabinet (10). A user may load laundry into the tub through the opening (20). The opening (20) may also be referred to as a laundry inlet. A door is installed in the opening (20) so as to be openable and closable.

[0029] The display (110) placed on one side of the cabinet (10) can display various information or menus related to the operation of the washing machine. In Fig. 1, the display (110) is shown as being displayed alone, but this is not limited to the case, and the display (110) may be placed within an operation panel together with various buttons or wheels, etc. The display (110), operation panel, etc. may be electrically connected to a processor mounted on a control board included in the washing machine (100).

[0030] The display (110) may be implemented in the form of a touch screen. If implemented as a touch screen, the user may perform various interactions by directly touching the display (110).

[0031] When the washing machine (100) is configured to have the washing and drying functions set while laundry is stored in the tub through the opening (20), the display (110) can be controlled to display a plurality of indicators (111, 112) indicating the washing time and the drying time, respectively. In the present disclosure, the indicator may be a graphic object having a variable size or length. For example, in the case of an indicator (111) corresponding to the washing time, the indicator may be configured with a progress bar whose size increases or decreases as the washing progresses and a frame corresponding to an area in which the progress bar is deformed.

[0032] Washing time can be, but is not limited to, the time it takes for the laundry to be completed (e.g., 2 hours), and can also be, based on absolute time, the time at which the laundry task is completed (e.g., 1:20 PM). Drying time can also be, but is not limited to, the time it takes for the drying task to be completed (e.g., 50 minutes), but in another embodiment, it can be, but is not limited to, the time at which the drying task is completed (e.g., 2:10 PM).

[0033] Among the plurality of indicators (111, 112), the first indicator (111) may correspond to a washing operation, and the second indicator (112) may correspond to a drying operation. The first and second indicators (111, 112) may be expressed in different colors. Accordingly, a user can easily determine which operation is currently in progress by looking at the color of the indicator even from a long distance from the washing machine (100). However, the present invention is not limited to color, and the first and second indicators (111, 112) may be expressed in different sizes or shapes.

[0034] The washing machine (100) can individually change the display status of multiple indicators (111, 112) depending on the progress of at least one of the washing and drying operations. Since this washing machine can perform both washing and drying, the overall time is bound to be longer, but the user can intuitively and quickly determine the current stage through the multiple indicators (111, 112). The display method and changing method of the indicators can be varied depending on the embodiment. This will be described in detail in the following section.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a washing machine according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. According to FIG. 2, the washing machine (100) includes a display (110), a memory (120), at least one sensor (130), and a processor (140).

[0036] The display (110) is configured to display various information, menus, etc., as described in FIG. 1. The display (110) may be implemented as various types of displays, such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes), an LED (Light Emitting Diodes), a micro LED, a QLED (Quantum dot light-emitting diodes), etc. The display (110) may also include a driving circuit, a backlight unit, a touch sensor, etc., which may be implemented in a form such as an a-si TFT, an LTPS (low temperature poly silicon) TFT, an OTFT (organic TFT), etc.

[0037] The memory (120) is a configuration for storing or recording various information, data, commands, programs, etc. required for the operation of the washing machine (100). The memory (120) may be implemented as at least one of various memories such as volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (dynamic RAM), SRAM (static RAM), SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM), etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., OTPROM (one time programmable ROM), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable and programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable ROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD)).

[0038] In FIG. 2, one memory (120) is illustrated, but the memory (120) may be implemented to include a plurality of memories that each store different types of data or each store data generated at different stages, and at least one of these memories may be implemented as a single chip integrated with the processor (140).

[0039] The memory (120) can store various user-defined settings for the washing and drying functions. The settings may include various modes, options, and their setting values ​​for the washing and drying functions. For example, if a user selects a wool washing mode and sequentially inputs the number of rinse cycles, the number of spin cycles, the drying intensity, etc. through the display (110), a control panel (not shown), or other external devices, the input values ​​may be included in the setting information and stored in the memory (120).

[0040] In addition, the memory (120) may store sensing values ​​sensed by at least one sensor (130) during washing or drying operations or information acquired by the processor (140) based on the sensing values. For example, when the weight of laundry or the like is sensed, the memory (120) may store those values.

[0041] At least one sensor (130) is configured to detect the condition of the laundry, such as the weight and dryness of the laundry. Specifically, various sensors (130), such as a weight detection sensor, an image sensor, a water level sensor, and a foam detection sensor, may be placed at various locations within the washing machine (100).

[0042] The sensing value of at least one sensor (130) may be provided to a processor (140), etc. The processor (140) may obtain various information, such as the weight or dryness of the laundry, whether there is foam remaining, whether water is discharged, and the amount of water supplied, based on the sensing value of at least one sensor (130).

[0043] The processor (140) can predict the washing time and drying time based on the acquired information. The processor (140) is configured to control the overall operation of the washing machine. The processor may be implemented as a digital signal processor (DSP) that processes digital signals, a microprocessor, etc. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a micro controller unit (MCU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a controller, an application processor (AP), a communication processor (CP), an ARM processor, an artificial intelligence (AI) processor, or may be defined by the relevant term. In addition, the processor (140) may be implemented as a system on chip (SoC) or large scale integration (LSI) having a built-in processing algorithm, or may be implemented in the form of a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The processor (140) may perform various functions by executing computer executable instructions stored in the memory (120). In FIG. 2, only one processor is illustrated, but the number of processors (140) may be implemented as multiple.

[0044] The processor (140) stores the setting information in the memory (120) when at least one of the washing function and the drying function is set after laundry is placed and received in the tub through the opening, and executes at least one of the washing function and the drying function according to the setting information. In the present disclosure, the washing function and the drying function may be functions that the washing machine (100) can execute, and the washing operation and the drying operation may be actual operations performed according to the execution of such functions. Specifically, the washing operation may include a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, a spin-drying cycle, etc.

[0045] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the internal configuration of a washing machine. Below, washing and drying operations are described in detail based on Figure 3.

[0046] According to Fig. 3, the tub (30) of the washing machine (100) is installed inside the cabinet (10). The tub (30) is formed in a cylindrical shape including a front opening formed toward the opening (20). Accordingly, laundry loaded through the opening (20) is received in the drum (50) inside the tub (30) through the front opening.

[0047] The tub (30) can be supported and fixed to the inner surface of the cabinet (10) by a tension spring, oil damper, etc. The tub (30) can accommodate water required for washing.

[0048] The drum (50) is configured to be installed so as to be rotatable within the tub (30). The drum (50) also includes a drum opening corresponding to the front opening of the tub (30), and a plurality of holes (51) through which water can pass may be formed on the side. In Fig. 3, the holes (51) are only shown on the side, but holes (51) may also be formed on the rear of the drum (50). Accordingly, water or air inside the drum may be discharged into the space between the drum (50) and the tub (30) through the holes. A plurality of lifts (52) for lifting laundry are provided on the inner circumference of the drum (50). The drum (50) may rotate around its central axis according to the driving of a driving motor installed on the rear.

[0049] A water supply device for supplying water may be provided on the upper side of the tub (30), and a drainage device for draining water may be arranged on the lower side. The water supply device may supply water provided from an external water source into the interior of the tub (30) through a water supply pipe (60).

[0050] When laundry is loaded and the washing process begins, the processor (140) senses the weight or volume of the laundry using at least one sensor (130), supplies an appropriate amount of water accordingly, and then rotates the drum (50) to perform the washing process. At this time, detergent contained in the detergent supply box provided on one side of the cabinet (10) may be supplied together with water into the tub (30). The processor (140) may perform tasks such as rotation of the drum (50), water supply, and drainage according to a preset algorithm while the washing process and the rinsing process are performed sequentially or alternately. In addition, when the rinsing process is completed, the processor (140) may perform a dehydration process while rotating the drum (50) at high speed.

[0051] Once the dehydration process is completed, the processor (140) can perform a drying operation. To perform the drying operation, the processor (140) can drive a hot air supply device (40). In FIG. 3, the hot air supply device (40) is shown in a structure in which it is positioned on the upper side of the tub (30), but its position is not necessarily limited thereto and may be modified in various ways.

[0052] The hot air supply device (40) can heat and dry the air discharged from the tub (30) to create hot air and circulate the hot air into the interior of the tub (30). Accordingly, laundry contained inside the drum (50) can be dried by the hot air. In the present disclosure, hot air refers to air heated and dried by the hot air supply device (40).

[0053] The hot air supply device (40) may be configured to include a blower fan, a compressor, a dehumidifier, a heater, etc. The blower fan generates air current so that air can circulate between the drum (50) and the hot air supply device (40). The compressor may configure a heat exchanger for drying and heating the air discharged from the drum (50). In addition, the hot air supply device (40) may include a heater for auxiliary heating of the air supplied to the drum (50) and a dehumidifier for auxiliary removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum (50). However, depending on the embodiment, the dehumidifier or the heater may be omitted.

[0054] The processor (140) can perform the drying operation in various ways based on the setting information set by the user for the drying operation. For example, if the drying intensity is divided into strong, medium, and weak, and the user selects strong drying intensity, the processor (140) can increase the temperature of the heater while increasing the rotation speed of the blower fan so that the high-temperature hot air can quickly circulate inside the drum (50). On the other hand, if weak drying intensity is selected, the processor (140) can lower the rotation speed of the blower fan or the temperature of the heater.

[0055] Alternatively, the user may select a drying time from one of multiple stages or input it directly. The processor (140) may determine the drying operation execution time based on the drying time selected or input by the user.

[0056] Alternatively, the processor (140) may perform different drying operations depending on the weight or type of laundry. For example, if wool laundry is loaded, the processor (140) may automatically set the drying intensity to be weaker or the drying time to be shorter compared to regular laundry. Furthermore, if the laundry is heavy, the processor (140) may set the drying time to be longer, and if the laundry is light, it may set it to be shorter.

[0057] Above, in Fig. 3, the method of performing the washing and drying operations is specifically described. Before performing the washing and drying operations, the processor (140) can estimate the washing time and drying time, respectively.

[0058] The processor (140) can calculate the washing time and drying time based on setting information set by the user, sensing information obtained through at least one sensor (130) for laundry, etc.

[0059] There are various ways to calculate washing and drying times.

[0060] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for calculating washing and drying times. According to Figure 4, when user-entered setting information is received (S410), the processor (140) can initially estimate the washing and drying times based on washing options, rinsing options, spin-drying options, drying options, etc. included in the setting information (S420). The configurable options can vary depending on the type or specifications of the washing machine (100) and the manufacturer's policies. For example, you can set various options such as washing time, water amount, water temperature, laundry material (wool, cotton, nylon, other special materials), laundry type (general clothes, baby clothes, lingerie, rugs, blankets, curtains, shoes, etc.), washing mode (strong wash mode, normal mode, low power mode, low noise mode, etc.), number of rinses, rinse intensity, rinse time, spin intensity, spin time, drying course (standard, strong, small load, towels, shirts, wool, functional clothes, blankets, etc.), drying method (air blowing, warm air, sterilization, etc.), drying time, drying intensity, etc.

[0061] The memory (120) may store information about the washing time or drying time required for each of these options in advance. The processor (140) may synthesize the times according to the options included in the setting information to estimate the times required for the washing and drying tasks requested by the user. For example, if standard washing and standard drying are set, and the washing time and drying time previously stored in the memory (120) are 1 hour 30 minutes and 1 hour, respectively, the processor (140) may estimate the washing time as 1 hour 30 minutes and the drying time as 1 hour. If 20 minutes are added for each additional rinse, and the user sets two additional rinses in the standard wash and sets an additional 20 minutes for the drying time, the processor (140) may calculate the washing time as 2 hours 10 minutes and the drying time as 1 hour 20 minutes.

[0062] Meanwhile, if at least one sensor (130) includes a weight detection sensor for detecting the weight of laundry, the processor (140) can detect the weight of laundry loaded into the drum (50) and correct the washing time and drying time according to the weight (S430).

[0063] Specifically, even if standard washing and standard drying are set, the processor (140) can increase the washing time and drying time if the laundry is heavy and bulky, and can decrease the washing time and drying time if the laundry is light and bulky. The increase and decrease criteria can be variously determined for each washing machine (100). For example, if a washing machine (100) with a maximum capacity of 10 kg is designed to divide the weight range into three stages such as less than 3 kg, 3 kg to 6 kg, and 6 kg or more, and to adjust the amount of water or time differently according to the stage, the washing time and drying time can be modified in such a way that the standard washing time and standard drying time are maintained as they are when the weight of the loaded washing machine is in the range of 3 kg to 6 kg, increased by 20% in the range of 6 kg or more, and decreased by 20% in the range of less than 3 kg.

[0064] In addition, if at least one sensor (130) includes a contamination detection sensor (440) capable of measuring the contamination level of water, the processor (140) can measure the contamination level after the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle are completed according to the options set by the user (S440). If the contamination level satisfies the standard value pre-stored in the memory (120), the processor (140) can perform the dehydration cycle while maintaining the washing time as it is (S450, S460). On the other hand, if the contamination level does not meet the standard value, the rinsing cycle can be additionally performed. In this case, the processor (140) can readjust the washing time by increasing the number of rinsing cycles (S460). If 20 minutes are required for one rinse as in the example described above, the washing time can be increased by 20 minutes. In this way, the washing time can be newly adjusted during or after the washing cycle is performed.

[0065] The processor (140) can readjust the drying time according to the progress of the washing operation. For example, if at least one sensor (130) includes a humidity sensor capable of detecting the humidity of the laundry, the processor (140) can sense the amount of water contained in the laundry after the dehydration process is completed and determine whether it meets a reference value (S480). If the amount of water exceeds the reference value, the processor (140) can readjust the initially estimated drying time by adding additional time (S490). On the other hand, if the reference value is met, the processor (140) can maintain the initially estimated drying time as is (S495).

[0066] Although Fig. 4 illustrates an example of a method for obtaining washing and drying times, each step may be omitted or other steps may be added depending on the type of sensor equipped in the washing machine (100). Furthermore, the order in which each step is performed may vary. For example, even if the washing cycle is completed and the rinsing cycle is in progress, if the processor (140) determines that the level of contamination of the laundry has not improved, the washing cycle may be performed again. In other words, the number of washing and rinsing cycles or the time may be automatically added depending on the situation, in which case the washing time may increase.

[0067] Alternatively, the user may pause the washing process after the washing process is completed and open the door to remove only some laundry before the drying process begins. In this case, the drying time may be reduced because the number of laundry items to be dried is reduced compared to the initially measured amount of laundry. If the door is opened before the drying process is completed, the processor (140) may control at least one sensor (130) to detect the weight of the laundry immediately after opening. Thereafter, if the door is closed again, the processor (140) may control at least one sensor (130) to detect the weight of the laundry again. The processor (140) may calculate the degree of weight change and, if the weight has decreased or increased, readjust the drying time according to the changed weight.

[0068] As described above, depending on various changes in circumstances, the processor (140) can readjust the estimated washing time or drying time.

[0069] As described above, the processor (140) can obtain the washing time and drying time in various ways. When the washing time and drying time are obtained, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to display a plurality of indicators corresponding to these times, respectively. In addition, when the washing and drying operations are performed, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to individually change the display status of the plurality of indicators according to the progress thereof. In addition, when the washing and drying times are readjusted as described above, the processor (140) can adjust the display status of each indicator or the increase or decrease speed of the progress bar according to the readjusted time.

[0070] FIGS. 5 to 12 are diagrams illustrating indicator display methods according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. According to FIGS. 5 to 12, various pieces of information can be displayed on the display (110) provided on the main body of the washing machine (110).

[0071] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an indicator may be implemented in the form of a frame and a progress bar that is variably displayed within the frame. Specifically, according to FIG. 5, a first indicator (111) may include a first frame (111a) and a first progress bar (111b) that is variably displayed within the first frame (111a), and a second indicator (112) may include a second frame (112a) and a second progress bar (112b) that is variably displayed within the second frame (112a).

[0072] While the washing operation is in progress, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to display information (181) on the remaining washing time, which is calculated by subtracting the washing time performed up to now from the total washing time, as text on one side of the first frame (111a). When the washing operation is completed and the drying operation is in progress, the processor (140) can display information (182) on the remaining drying time, which is calculated by subtracting the drying time performed up to now from the total drying time, on one side of the second frame (112a). Although Fig. 5 illustrates a case where the washing time and the drying time are displayed separately, depending on the embodiment, it may be implemented to display the remaining time from the total time that is the sum of the washing time and the drying time. In addition, text may be added to indicate whether the washing operation or the drying operation is currently in progress.

[0073] In addition, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to display a first menu (161) indicating whether a washing setting is set at the bottom of the screen, an area (171) indicating various options set by the user in relation to the washing function, a second menu (162) indicating whether a drying setting is set, a third menu (163) for pausing, etc.

[0074] When the washing process is in progress, the processor (140) can display options set in relation to the washing function in a parallel manner in the corresponding area (171). For example, setting values ​​for various options such as water temperature 40 degrees, 3 rinses, strong spin, and bubble wash off can be displayed. When the washing process is completed and the drying process is in progress, the processor (140) can remove the option display area (171) of the first menu (161) and display the option display area (172) of the second menu (162). For example, options for drying level (strong, medium, weak, delicate, etc.), whether to set the anti-wrinkle function, and whether to set the ironing function can be displayed in the corresponding area (172).

[0075] Meanwhile, since water may still be present in the tub while the washing function is in progress, the door may be restricted from being opened and closed after the washing process is arbitrarily terminated. Accordingly, the processor (140) may not display the fourth menu (164) for terminating the process during the washing process. On the other hand, the processor (140) may also display the fourth menu (164) while the drying process is in progress. When the fourth menu (164) is selected, the processor (140) may terminate the ongoing process.

[0076] If both the washing function and the drying function are set, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to display the first frame (111a) and the second frame (112a) at preset lengths, as shown in FIG. 5. The lengths of the first and second frames (111a, 112a) can always be maintained fixed. However, depending on the washing time and drying time, the increase or decrease speed of the first and second progress bars (111b, 112b) can vary. For example, if the total washing time is estimated to be 2 hours, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to display the first progress bar (111b) rising to the 25% position within the first frame (111a) after the washing has been in progress for approximately 30 minutes. On the other hand, if the total washing time is estimated to be 1 hour, the processor (140) can control the display (110) so that the first progress bar (111b) within the first frame (111a) is displayed to rise to the 50% position after the washing has been in progress for about 30 minutes. That is, since the first frame (111a) is displayed with the same length in a state where the total washing time has decreased, the hourly increase speed of the first progress bar (111a) further increases. The processor (140) can control the display (110) so that the first and second progress bars (111a, 111b) are updated and displayed in preset time units (e.g., 1 minute, etc.).

[0077] However, this description is merely an example and is not necessarily limited thereto. For example, the processor (140) may display the first frame (111a) at different lengths depending on the washing time, and the second frame (112a) at different lengths depending on the drying time. In other words, the longer the time, the longer the frame may be displayed.

[0078] In FIG. 5, the first and second progress bars (111a, 112b) are displayed in a form that increases from the starting point of each frame while the first and second frames (111a, 112a) are already displayed. However, the first and second progress bars (111a, 112b) may also be displayed in a form that decreases within the frame depending on the progress of each task.

[0079] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the operation of the washing machine (100) according to this embodiment. According to FIG. 6, when both the washing function and the drying function are set, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to display the first frame (111a) and the second frame (112a) with preset lengths, and to display the first and second progress bars (111a, 112b) in a full form within each frame (111a, 112a). The processor (140) can also display information (181, 182) on the remaining time and estimated time of the washing and drying operations, etc., on one side of each of the first frame (111a) and the second frame (112a).

[0080] The processor (140) can decrease the first progress bar (111b) within the first frame (111a) as the washing process progresses. When the washing process is completed and drying is performed, the processor (140) can decrease the second progress bar (112b) within the second frame (112a) as the drying process progresses.

[0081] The processor (140) can display the lengths of the first and second frames (111a, 112b) fixedly regardless of the washing time and drying time, while determining the decreasing speeds of the first and second progress bars (111b, 112b) differently depending on the washing time and drying time. That is, if the washing time is long, the decreasing speed of the first progress bar (111b) within the first frame (111a) can be reduced in inverse proportion thereto.

[0082] Meanwhile, even if the user did not initially set the drying function, the user can additionally set the drying function through the screen of the display (110).

[0083] Fig. 7 describes a method of changing the screen according to additional settings of the drying function. According to Fig. 7, when only the washing function is selected, the processor (140) displays a first indicator (111) including a first frame (111a) and a first progress bar (111b). Various menus (161, 162, 163) and an option display area (171) may be displayed at the bottom of the first frame (111a). Unlike Figs. 5 and 6, an area (162-1) indicating that the drying function is not set may be additionally displayed at one side of the second menu (162).

[0084] In this state, when the user selects the second menu (162) or the corresponding area (162-1), the processor (140) identifies that the drying function has been additionally set, and displays a second frame (112a) corresponding to the drying function on one side of the first frame (111a). In this case, the lengths of the first frame (111a) and the first progress bar (111b) may be reduced proportionally. Depending on the setting of the drying function, the setting display area (162-1) of the second menu (162) may be displayed in an On state. Although not separately illustrated in FIG. 7, when the drying function is additionally set, an option display area for setting various drying options may be additionally displayed on one side of the second menu (162). However, the present invention is not necessarily limited thereto, and when the drying function is additionally set in the same manner as in FIG. 7, the processor (140) may set the drying function by applying the drying options set as default and store them in the memory (120).

[0085] Meanwhile, users can input various interactions by directly manipulating the first indicator or the second indicator using touch and drag.

[0086] Figure 8 is a drawing for explaining the operation according to this embodiment.

[0087] According to FIG. 8, this illustrates a case where a user inputs a user operation of touching one side of the first frame (111a) and then dragging in the direction d1 while only the washing function is initially set and only the first frame (111a) and the first progress bar (111b) related to washing are displayed. When the user drags a certain distance or more, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to display the second frame (112a) on the right side while reducing the first frame (111a). As the second frame (112) is additionally displayed, the processor (140) recognizes that the drying function has been additionally set, and can store setting information for the drying function in the memory (120). Accordingly, the processor (140) changes the setting display area (162-1) displayed on one side of the second menu (162) from the off state to the on state.

[0088] FIG. 8 illustrates a case where a drying function is additionally set by a user's touch and drag operation, but even in a case where both the washing and drying functions are set, the processor (140) may selectively control the display (110) to display only the first indicator for washing, only the second indicator for drying, or both the first and second indicators, depending on the user's selection.

[0089] For example, as shown in the lower drawing of FIG. 8, when the first and second frames (111a, 112a) are both displayed and the user inputs a user operation of touching one side (e.g., the right end) of the first frame (111a) and then dragging it toward the second frame (112a), the processor (140) can erase the second frame (112a) and display the first frame (111a) by expanding it to the area where the second frame (112a) was displayed. That is, the lower drawing of FIG. 8 can be switched as in the upper drawing. In this case, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to further expand the option display area for washing displayed at the lower side while the first and second frames (111a, 112a) are displayed together, so as to additionally display more detailed setting information for the washing function on one side of the expanded first frame (111a).

[0090] Alternatively, when the user inputs a user operation of touching one side (e.g., the left end) of the second frame (112a) and then dragging it toward the first frame (111a) while both the first and second frames (111a, 112a) are displayed, the processor (140) may erase the first frame (111a) and display the second frame (112a) by expanding it to the area where the second frame (111a) was displayed. In this case, the processor (140) may control the display (110) to further expand the option display area for the drying function that was displayed at the bottom while the first and second frames (111a, 112a) were displayed together, so as to additionally display more detailed setting information for the drying function on one side of the expanded second frame (112a).

[0091] In Fig. 8, the first frame (111a) is displayed with only the washing function selected, and a case in which the drying function is additionally set by a touch and drag operation on the first frame (111a) is described, but the user operation can be performed in various ways.

[0092] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining an interaction method according to another embodiment.

[0093] For example, as described in FIG. 8, when only the washing function is selected and the processor (140) displays the first frame (111a), and when a first user operation is input such as the user touching one side of the first frame (111a), i.e., the right end, and dragging in the left direction, the processor (140) reduces the first frame (111a) and additionally displays the second frame (112a). Since the drying function is not set, the second frame (112a) may be displayed in a deactivated state. The deactivated state may mean that the second frame (112a) is expressed in a color different from the original color (e.g., white or gray), displayed at a lower brightness than the original brightness, or displayed in a flickering state.

[0094] The user can visually inspect the state of the second frame (112a) and intuitively recognize that the drying function is not set. Accordingly, if the user wishes to additionally set the drying function, the user can input a second user operation for the second frame (112a), as illustrated in FIG. 9. The second user operation can be input in various ways.

[0095] FIG. 9 illustrates a case where a second user operation is input to drag a point (P1) of a second frame (112a) while touching it to another point (P2). The processor (140) can control the display (110) to display a pop-up menu (190) for setting whether to set the drying function or various drying options on one side of the point (i.e., P2) where the second user operation is released. The user can set the drying function or a desired drying option by touching the pop-up menu (190). When the user sets the drying function, the processor (140) can change the setting display area (162-1) of the second menu (162) at the bottom of the screen from the OFF state to the ON state.

[0096] In Fig. 9, a case is described where a user inputs a touch and drag operation and then inputs a touch operation again to complete the drying function setting and option setting. However, according to another embodiment, if a second user operation of touching the second frame (112a) is input, a pop-up menu may be additionally displayed immediately. The processor (140) may configure setting information for additionally performing the drying function according to the information set in this manner and store it in the memory (120).

[0097] Meanwhile, according to another embodiment, drying function settings and option settings can be performed in batches using only touch and drag operations.

[0098] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an interaction method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. According to FIG. 10, a user may input a second user operation of touching a point (i.e., a starting point) of a second frame (112a) while the second frame (112a) is displayed and dragging in a rightward direction (i.e., toward the end point). The processor (140) may sequentially change drying options (e.g., drying intensity or drying time, etc.) according to the drag length, and display information (182) about the changed drying options in text form on one side of the second frame (112a).

[0099] According to FIG. 10, when dragged to point P2, information (182) indicating that the drying time can be set to 30 minutes is displayed, and when dragged to point P3, information (182) indicating that the drying time can be set to 1 hour is displayed. The processor (140) can increase the second progress bar (112b) within the second frame (112a) according to the user's drag. The processor (140) can automatically set the drying option according to the length of the second progress bar (112b) when the touch is released. In the case of FIG. 10, when the drag is stopped at point P2 and the touch state is released, the processor (140) automatically sets the drying time to 30 minutes and stores the setting information for additionally performing the drying function in the memory (120) accordingly. If the basic drying time is set to 1 hour, when dragging to the end of the second frame (112a), the processor (140) recognizes that the basic drying time has been set, and can generate setting information accordingly and store it in the memory (120).

[0100] According to the above embodiments, the user can use each indicator (111, 112) not only for simple information confirmation but also as a means for interaction, so that the user's operating convenience can be greatly improved and the area occupied by the operating panel on the exterior of the washing machine (100) can be minimized.

[0101] Meanwhile, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, at least one sensor (130) may further include a camera. The camera may be positioned within the washing machine at a location capable of photographing the interior of the drum (50). For example, if the camera is positioned between the outer cover and the inner glass forming the door for opening and closing the cabinet (10), laundry inside the drum (50) can be photographed without getting wet during the washing process.

[0102] The processor (140) can control the camera at preset time points while performing washing and drying operations to capture images of the progress inside the drum. Specifically, the processor (140) can control the camera to capture images while the water supply process is being performed to check the water supply level, etc. In addition, the processor (140) can control the camera to capture images even during the washing or rinsing process. The processor (140) stores the various captured images in the memory (120).

[0103] The processor (140) can control the display (110) to additionally display an image captured on one side of each of the plurality of indicators.

[0104] Fig. 11 illustrates a case where an image captured by a camera is additionally displayed in the form of a thumbnail. While a washing process is in progress, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to display text (e.g., washing, rinsing, spin-drying) regarding the currently-in-progress process on one side of the first frame (111a). If the washing process is in progress, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to display a captured image (191) of laundry being washed. The user can easily determine the current status by visually viewing the captured image (191).

[0105] In Fig. 11, a case of displaying a photographic image (191) is illustrated, but graphic objects may be displayed together with the photographic image (191).

[0106] Fig. 12 illustrates the operation of a washing machine according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. According to Fig. 12, the processor (140) can control the display (110) to additionally display graphic objects (195) that allow the user to intuitively understand the task currently in progress. Fig. 12 illustrates a case where graphic objects (195) for fire and wind, etc. are shown to indicate that hot air is being introduced into the drum as the drying process progresses.

[0107] The position and type of the graphic object (195) may be varied depending on the type of work or progress. For example, when the washing process is in progress, a graphic object (195) in the form of foam may be expressed as rising around the first progress bar (111b), and when the washing process is almost finished, the amount of foam may be expressed as decreasing. When the rinsing process begins, a graphic object (195) in the form of flowing water may be displayed. While the dehydration process is in progress, a graphic object (195) in the form of water drops scattering outward may be displayed.

[0108] As described above, the processor (140) can provide various information related to washing and drying operations in an easily understandable manner to the user by using the first and second indicators, and can also provide intuitive interaction through this.

[0109] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a display method of a washing machine according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. According to FIG. 13, when various setting information for washing and drying is input, the washing machine can store the input information (S1310).

[0110] In this state, the washing machine detects the weight of the laundry loaded inside (S1320), estimates the washing time and drying time based on the weight and other setting options, and then displays a plurality of indicators corresponding to the estimated washing time and drying time (S1330).

[0111] When a washing or drying operation is in progress (S1340), the washing machine can change the display status of the corresponding indicator according to the progress of the operation (S1350). That is, in the case of the first indicator corresponding to the washing operation, the length of the first progress bar within the first indicator can be increased or decreased as the washing operation progresses. When the drying operation starts after the washing operation is completed, the washing machine can change the display status of the second indicator in the same manner according to the progress of the drying operation. Since the display status of each indicator has been specifically described in the above-mentioned sections of FIGS. 5 to 12, a redundant description will be omitted.

[0112] Meanwhile, the washing and drying times may change at any time during the washing or drying process. Methods for estimating and changing the washing and drying times have been specifically described in the above section, so a detailed description will be omitted. If at least one of the washing and drying times changes, the washing machine can change the display status of at least one of the multiple indicators to reflect the change. For example, the length of the corresponding indicator, or the size, color, or text may be changed.

[0113] The display method described in Fig. 13 can be performed by a washing machine having the configuration of Figs. 1 to 3, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and can be performed by a washing machine having various other configurations.

[0114] In addition, although the various embodiments described above have been described as displaying a plurality of indicators using the display (110) provided in the cabinet (10) of the washing machine (100), a screen including a plurality of indicators may be displayed on an external device rather than the washing machine (100). For example, when the washing machine (100) is connected to various terminal devices (e.g., a mobile phone, a tablet PC, a PC, a laptop PC, etc.) used by a user through a server device, the washing machine (100) may estimate the washing time and drying time based on the weight of the laundry and other setting options, and transmit various information, such as the estimated information or information on the progress of each task, to the server device. The server device may configure a screen as described in FIGS. 5 to 12 based on this information and provide it to the terminal device.

[0115] Meanwhile, in the above embodiments, each indicator is described as being in the form of a progress bar that increases or decreases within a frame, but it may also be implemented in the form of a progress bar that increases or decreases independently without a frame. Alternatively, each indicator may be displayed in a circular form rather than a bar form, or may be expressed in the form of aligning and displaying multiple bar graphs that gradually grow longer in the vertical direction. In other words, the size, form, type, etc. of the indicator may be variously changed depending on the size, arrangement position, type, etc. of the display (110).

[0116] Additionally, the various embodiments described above may be implemented independently of each other, or may be implemented in whole or in part in combination with various other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0117] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented as software comprising instructions stored in a machine-readable storage media that can be read by a machine (e.g., a computer).

[0118] Specifically, when laundry is placed and stored in the drum of a washing machine and a washing function and a drying function are set, a non-transitory readable storage medium may be provided in which software for making a decision is stored by sequentially performing the steps of: storing the setting information; detecting the weight of the laundry using at least one sensor; displaying a plurality of indicators corresponding to the washing time and the drying time calculated based on the setting information and the detected weight; and individually changing the display status of at least one of the plurality of indicators according to the progress of the work when the washing work and the drying work are sequentially performed based on the setting information.

[0119] A device equipped with such a non-transitory readable medium can perform various display operations, such as displaying and changing indicators, as described in the various embodiments described above.

[0120] In the context of non-transitory readable storage media, 'non-transitory' means that the storage medium does not contain signals and is tangible, but does not distinguish between whether data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0121] Alternatively, a program for performing the method according to the various embodiments described above may be distributed online through an application store. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated on a storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0122] Each component (e.g., a module or a program) according to various embodiments may be composed of one or more entities, and some of the aforementioned sub-components may be omitted, or other sub-components may be further included in various embodiments. Alternatively or additionally, some components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single entity, which may perform the same or similar functions as those performed by each of the respective components prior to integration. Operations performed by a module, program, or other component according to various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or at least some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or other operations may be added.

[0123] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the attached drawings, the scope of the present invention is determined by the claims described below and should not be construed as being limited to the aforementioned embodiments and / or drawings. It should also be clearly understood that improvements, modifications, and variations apparent to those skilled in the art to the invention described in the claims are also included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. In a washing machine capable of performing washing and drying functions, A cabinet comprising an opening for loading laundry; A tub placed inside the above cabinet; A drum arranged in a rotatable manner within the above tub; A display placed on one side of the above cabinet; memory; at least one sensor; and including a processor; The above processor, When the washing function and drying function are set while laundry is loaded and stored in the drum through the opening, the setting information is stored in the memory, and the weight of the laundry is detected through the at least one sensor. Control the display to display a plurality of indicators corresponding to the washing time and drying time respectively calculated based on the above setting information and the detected weight, A washing machine that controls the display to individually change the display status of at least one of the plurality of indicators according to the progress of the work when the washing and drying work are sequentially performed based on the above setting information.

2. In paragraph 1, The above multiple indicators are, It includes a first progress bar corresponding to the washing time and a second progress bar corresponding to the drying time and having a different color from the first progress bar, The above processor, A washing machine, wherein when the setting information is changed during the progress of at least one of the washing cycle and the drying cycle, or when at least one of the washing time and the drying time is readjusted, the display is controlled to change the length of at least one of the first progress bar and the second progress bar based on the changed setting information or the readjusted washing time and drying time.

3. In paragraph 2, The above processor, When the washing time and the drying time are each calculated, the first frame corresponding to the first progress bar and the second frame corresponding to the second progress bar are each displayed with a preset length, When the above washing operation is in progress, the first progress bar is displayed in a form that increases from the starting point of the first frame according to the progress. When the above drying operation is in progress, the display is controlled so that the second progress bar increases from the starting point of the second frame according to the progress. A washing machine in which the increase speed of the first and second progress bars is different depending on the washing time and the drying time.

4. In paragraph 2, The above processor, When the washing time and the drying time are each calculated, the first progress bar and the second progress bar are each displayed at a preset length, As the above washing operation progresses, the length of the first progress bar is reduced according to the progress, When the above drying operation is in progress, the display is controlled to reduce the length of the second progress bar according to the progress. A washing machine in which the decrease speeds of the first and second progress bars are different depending on the washing time and the drying time.

5. In paragraph 2, The above processor, In a state where the first frame corresponding to the first progress bar and the second frame corresponding to the second progress bar are displayed together, When a user operation of touching one side of the first frame and dragging it toward the second frame is input, the second frame is erased, the first frame is expanded to the area where the second frame was displayed, and detailed setting information for the washing function is additionally displayed on one side of the expanded first frame. When a user operation of touching one side of the second frame and dragging it toward the first frame is input, the first frame is erased and the second frame is displayed by extending it to the area where the first frame was displayed. A washing machine that controls the display to additionally display detailed setting information for the drying function on one side of the extended second frame.

6. In paragraph 2, The above processor, When only the above washing function is selected, the first frame corresponding to the first progress bar is displayed. When a first user operation of dragging while touching a part of the first frame is input, the first frame is reduced and a second frame corresponding to the second progress bar is additionally displayed on one side of the first frame. A washing machine that, when a second user operation for the second frame is input, additionally sets the drying function according to the second user operation and stores it in the memory.

7. In paragraph 6, The above processor, A washing machine that, when the second user operation of touching the second frame is input, additionally displays a pop-up menu for setting drying options on one side of the touch point, and, when the drying option is set in the pop-up menu, stores setting information for additionally performing the drying function according to the set option in the memory.

8. In paragraph 6, The above processor, A washing machine, wherein when a second user operation of touching the start point of the second frame and dragging toward the end point of the second frame is input, the second progress bar is increased within the second frame according to the drag, and when the touch is released, the drying option is automatically set according to the length of the increased second progress bar, and setting information for additionally performing the drying function according to the set drying option is stored in the memory.

9. In paragraph 2, Including a camera for photographing the laundry contained in the drum, The above processor, Controlling the camera during the above washing and drying operations to take pictures of the progress and store the taken images in the memory; A washing machine that controls the display to additionally display the photographed image in the form of a thumbnail at a position corresponding to the photographing time on one side of the plurality of indicators.

10. In a display method of a washing machine capable of performing washing and drying functions, A step of storing the setting information when the washing function and drying function are set while laundry is placed and stored in the drum of the washing machine; A step of detecting the weight of the laundry using at least one sensor; A step of displaying a plurality of indicators each corresponding to a washing time and a drying time calculated based on the above setting information and the detected weight; and A display method comprising: a step of individually changing the display status of at least one of the plurality of indicators according to the progress of the work when the washing and drying work are sequentially performed based on the above setting information; 11. In paragraph 10, The above plurality of indicators include a first indicator corresponding to the washing time and a second indicator corresponding to the drying time, The step of individually changing the display status of at least one of the above plurality of indicators is: A step of increasing a first progress bar within a first frame of the first indicator based on the progress of the washing operation; and A step of increasing a second progress bar within a second frame of the second indicator based on the progress of the drying operation; A display method wherein the first and second frames are each displayed with a preset length, and the increase speed of the first and second progress bars is different depending on the washing time and the drying time.

12. In paragraph 11, When a user operation of touching one side of the first frame and dragging it toward the second frame is input while the first frame and the second frame are displayed together, the second frame is erased and the first frame is displayed by extending it to the area where the second frame was displayed, and detailed setting information for the washing function is additionally displayed on one side of the extended first frame; and A display method further comprising: when a user operation of touching one side of the second frame and dragging it toward the first frame is input, erasing the first frame and displaying the second frame by extending it to the area where the first frame was displayed, and additionally displaying detailed setting information for the drying function on one side of the extended second frame.

13. In paragraph 11, When a first user operation of dragging while touching a part of the first frame is input while only the first frame is displayed, a step of reducing the first frame and additionally displaying the second frame on one side of the first frame; When the second user operation of touching the second frame is input, a step of additionally displaying a pop-up menu for setting drying options on one side of the touch point; A display method further comprising: a step of storing setting information for additionally performing the drying function according to the set option when the drying option is set in the pop-up menu; 14. In paragraph 11, When a first user operation of dragging while touching a part of the first frame is input while only the first frame is displayed, a step of reducing the first frame and additionally displaying the second frame on one side of the first frame; When the second user operation of touching the start point of the second frame and dragging toward the end point of the second frame is input, a step of increasing the second progress bar within the second frame according to the drag; A display method further comprising: a step of automatically setting a drying option according to the length of the increased second progress bar when the touch is released; 15. In paragraph 10, The step of displaying the above multiple indicators is: When the washing time and the drying time are each calculated, a step of displaying a first progress bar corresponding to the washing time and a second progress bar corresponding to the drying time, each with a preset length, is included. The step of individually changing the display status of at least one of the above plurality of indicators is: A step of reducing the length of the first progress bar according to the progress of the above washing operation; and A step of reducing the length of the second progress bar according to the progress of the drying operation; A display method wherein the decrease speed of the first and second progress bars is different depending on the washing time and the drying time.

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