Washing machine comprising power generator and filter device

Abstract

A washing machine including an independent power generator, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, is disclosed. The washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may comprise: a filter for filtering out microplastics from water flowing in through an inflow path; a blade for moving the microplastics to the end portion of the filter; a power generator for generating power by using the water when the influent water is drained through a first drain passage; a charger charged with the voltage generated by the power generator; and a motor for driving the blade through the power of the charger.

Description

Washing machine including generator and filter unit

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a garment treatment device including a filter device together with a generator.

[0002] A washing machine is a home appliance that uses the driving force of a motor to mix laundry, water, and detergent inside a tub, thereby washing the laundry through friction between them.

[0003] The cycles performed by a washing machine, regardless of the type of washing machine, may include a washing cycle in which detergent and water are supplied to a tub containing laundry and the drum is rotated to wash the laundry, a rinsing cycle in which water is supplied to the tub and the drum is rotated to rinse the laundry, and a dehydration cycle in which water is discharged from the tub and the drum is rotated to remove moisture from the laundry.

[0004] A washing machine may include a drain configured to discharge water from the tub to the outside of the washing machine during the wash, rinse, and / or spin cycles. The water discharged into the drain contains a large number of microplastics shed from clothing, and the discharge of these microplastics poses an environmental problem.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generating generator is disclosed. The washing machine may include a filter for filtering microplastics from water flowing in through an inlet. The washing machine may include blades for moving the microplastics to the ends of the filter. The washing machine may include a generator for generating power using water as the flowing water drains through a first drain. The washing machine may include a charger that is charged with voltage generated by the generator. The washing machine may include a motor that drives the blades using power from the charger.

[0006] A method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of filtering microplastics from water flowing in through an inlet through a filter. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of generating power using water and a generator when water passing through the filter is drained through a first drain. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of charging a charger with voltage generated from the generator. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of operating a motor with power from the charger. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of moving filtered microplastics to an end portion of a filter by the operation of a blade connected to the motor.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a garment processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a washing machine including a filter device and a generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 4 is a diagram of the internal configuration of a filter device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a filter device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 6 is an internal configuration diagram of a filter device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from a different angle.

[0013] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a washing machine including a filter device and a generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a filter device and a generator in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a filter device and a generator in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a filter device and a generator in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 11A is a control circuit diagram of a voltage detection method and a charger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 11b is a graph showing charging and discharging of a capacitor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 12A is a diagram showing detection of a filter being removed and then re-installed by a physical switch according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 12b is a diagram showing a method of detecting that a filter has been removed and then re-installed by a light sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a filter device and a generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method for filtering microplastics by a filter device of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method of utilizing a bypass drain when a filter is full of microplastics according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] The terms used in this disclosure will be briefly explained, and one embodiment of the present disclosure will be specifically described.

[0026] The terms used in this disclosure are selected from widely used, current terms, taking into account the functions of one embodiment of the 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 embodiments of the disclosure. Therefore, the terms used in this disclosure should not be defined simply as names of terms, but rather based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the disclosure.

[0027] In this disclosure, the expression “at least one of a, b or c” may refer to “a”, “b”, “c”, “a and b”, “a and c”, “b and c”, “all of a, b and c”, or variations thereof.

[0028] Throughout this disclosure, when a part is said to "include" a certain component, this does not mean that other components are excluded, but rather that other components may be included, unless otherwise specifically stated. Furthermore, terms such as "part," "module," etc., used in this disclosure refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and "part" and "module" may be implemented as hardware or software, or as a combination of hardware and software.

[0029] Below, with reference to the attached drawings, embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, one embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In addition, in the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted to clearly describe one embodiment of the present disclosure, and similar parts are designated with similar drawing reference numerals throughout the present disclosure.

[0030] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can perform washing, rinsing, draining, and spin-drying operations. The washing machine may also be a combined washing machine and dryer capable of performing a drying operation on laundry that has completed spin-drying. The washing machine may be an example of a clothing treatment device. The clothing treatment device may include at least one of a device for washing clothing (a laundry item, a drying item), a device for drying clothing, and a device capable of performing both washing and drying of clothing.

[0031] A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a top-loading washing machine in which an inlet for loading or withdrawing laundry is provided facing upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which an inlet for loading or withdrawing laundry is provided facing forward. A washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a washing machine of a loading method other than a top-loading washing machine and a front-loading washing machine.

[0032] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. The front-loading washing machine may include a lift for raising the laundry. The front-loading washing machine may include a washer / dryer capable of drying the laundry contained within the drum. The washer / dryer may include a heating device for high-temperature air. The washer / dryer may further include a condensing device for drying the dry air. For example, the washer / dryer may include a heat pump. The washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a washing machine using a washing method other than the washing method described above.

[0033] A washing machine may include a drain configured to discharge water from the tub to the outside of the washing machine during the wash cycle, rinse cycle, and / or spin cycle. The water discharged into the drain contains a large number of microplastics shed from clothing, and the discharge of these microplastics is becoming an environmental issue. Therefore, some washing machines are equipped with a separate filter device to filter out microplastics. However, the frequency of filter replacement can be reduced if the microplastics are compressed and accumulated within the filter device rather than being randomly distributed.

[0034] Hereinafter, a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a clothing treatment device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the washing machine (10) of the clothing treatment device (1) may include a washing machine housing (11) that accommodates various components therein. The washing machine housing (11) may form the exterior of the washing machine (10). The washing machine housing (11) may have a box shape with one portion open.

[0037] The washing machine housing (11) may include a housing opening (12) formed to allow access to the interior of the drum (30). The housing opening (12) may be opened approximately forward.

[0038] The washing machine (10) may include a door (13) for opening and closing a housing opening (12) provided in the washing machine housing (11). The door (13) may be rotatably mounted to the washing machine housing (11) by a hinge (14). At least a portion of the door (13) may be provided to be transparent or translucent so as to allow the interior of the washing machine housing (11) to be visible.

[0039] The washing machine (10) may include a tub (20) provided inside the washing machine housing (11) to store water. The tub (20) may be placed inside the washing machine housing (11). The tub (20) may include a tub opening (22) provided to correspond to the housing opening (12). The tub opening (22) may be opened approximately forward. The tub (20) may be supported inside the washing machine housing (11). The tub (20) may have an approximately cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0040] The tub (20) can be elastically supported from the washing machine housing (11) by a damper (80). The damper (80) can connect the washing machine housing (11) and the tub (20). The damper (80) can be provided to absorb vibration energy between the tub (20) and the washing machine housing (11) to attenuate vibration when vibration generated when the drum (30) rotates is transmitted to the tub (20) and / or the washing machine housing (11).

[0041] A washing machine (10) may include a drum (30) provided to accommodate laundry. The drum (30) may be rotatably provided inside a tub (20). The drum (30) may perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration while rotating inside the tub (20). The drum (30) may include a hole (34) connecting the internal space of the drum (30) and the internal space of the tub (20). The drum (30) may have a generally cylindrical shape with one side open, but is not limited thereto. At least one lifter (35) may be installed on the inner circumference of the drum (30) so that laundry can be raised and lowered when the drum (30) rotates.

[0042] The drum (30) may include a drum opening (32) that is provided to correspond to the housing opening (12) and the tub opening (22). Laundry may be fed into the drum (30) or taken out from the drum (30) through the housing opening (12), the tub opening (22), and the drum opening (32).

[0043] The washing machine (10) may include a washing machine drive device (40) configured to rotate a drum (30). The washing machine drive device (40) may include a drive motor (41) and a rotation shaft (42) for transmitting the driving force generated by the drive motor (41) to the drum (30). The rotation shaft (42) may pass through the tub (20) and be connected to the drum (30).

[0044] The washing machine (10) can be divided into a direct drive type in which a rotating shaft (42) is directly connected to a driving motor (41) to rotate a drum (30) and an indirect drive type in which a pulley (43) is connected between a driving motor (41) and a rotating shaft (42) to drive a drum (30).

[0045] A washing machine (10) according to one embodiment may be provided as an indirect drive type, but is not limited thereto and may also be provided as a direct drive type.

[0046] One end of the rotary shaft (42) may be connected to the drum (30), and the other end may be connected to a pulley (43) to transmit power from a driving motor (41). A motor pulley (41a) may be formed on the rotary shaft of the driving motor (41). A driving belt (44) may be provided between the motor pulley (41a) and the pulley (43), so that the rotary shaft (42) may be driven by the driving belt (44).

[0047] A bearing housing (45) may be installed on a rear portion of the tub (20) to rotatably support a rotating shaft (42). The bearing housing (45) may be made of an aluminum alloy and may be inserted into a rear portion of the tub (20) when the tub (20) is injection molded.

[0048] The washing machine drive device (40) can perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying operations by rotating the drum (30) forward or backward.

[0049] The washing machine (10) may include a water supply device (50). The water supply device (50) may supply water to the tub (20). The water supply device (50) may be located on the upper side of the tub (20). The water supply device (50) may include a water supply pipe (51) and a water supply valve (56) provided in the water supply pipe (51). The water supply pipe (51) may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe (51) may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device (60) and / or the tub (20). Water may be supplied to the tub (20) via the detergent supply device (60). Water may be supplied to the tub (20) without passing through the detergent supply device (60).

[0050] The water supply valve (56) can open or close the water supply pipe (51) in response to an electrical signal from the control unit (90). The water supply valve (56) can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (20). The water supply valve (56) may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0051] The washing machine (10) may include a detergent supply device (60) configured to supply detergent to the tub (20). The detergent supply device (60) may be configured to supply detergent into the tub (20) during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe (51) may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device (60). The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied into the tub (20). The detergent may include not only laundry detergent but also a dryer rinse, a deodorant, a sterilizer, or an air freshener. The detergent supply device (60) may be connected to the tub (20) through a connecting pipe (61).

[0052] The washing machine (10) may include a drainage device (70). The drainage device (70) may be configured to discharge water contained in the tub (20) to the outside. The drainage device (70) may include a drainage pump (73) for discharging water in the tub (20) to the outside of the washing machine housing (11), a connection hose (71) for connecting the tub (20) and the drainage pump (73) so that water inside the tub (20) can flow into the drainage pump (73), and a drainage channel (74) for guiding water pumped by the drainage pump (73) to the outside of the washing machine housing (11). The drainage device (70) may include a drainage valve (72) provided in the connection hose (71) for opening and closing the connection hose (71).

[0053] The washing machine (10) may provide a user interface device (15) for interaction between the user and the washing machine (10).

[0054] The washing machine (10) may include a user interface device (15). The user interface device (15) may include an input interface (16) and an output interface (17).

[0055] The input interface (16) can convert sensory information received from the user into an electrical signal.

[0056] The input interface (16) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. At least one input interface (16) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0057] The output interface (17) can transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine (10) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0058] For example, the output interface (17) can transmit information related to the washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (10), washing settings / rinsing settings / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine (10) can be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc. The output interface (17) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0059] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a washing machine including a filter device and a generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] A washing machine (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a filter device (100) connectable to a first drain (151) as shown in FIG. 3. The filter device (100) may be placed outside the washing machine (10). The filter device (100) may be configured to filter foreign substances such as microplastics from water discharged from the washing machine (10).

[0061] Clothing, primarily made from synthetic fibers, often sheds microplastics during washing. These shed microplastics are flushed out with water and end up in the ocean. It's reported that 35% of the microplastics entering the ocean are released from clothing during washing.

[0062] Accordingly, many countries are actively considering regulations to reduce the emission of microplastics from clothing during washing. To address these regulations, home appliance manufacturers are selling microplastic filtering devices as aftermarket products that can be attached to existing washing machines. The filters included in these microplastic filtering devices may include mesh filters. When the filter becomes clogged with microplastics, consumers must manually replace the filter, which can be inconvenient. Therefore, a method of compressing microplastics within the filter has been proposed as a way to extend the filter replacement cycle. To compress the microplastics within the filter, a motor-driven blade may be used. To drive the motor and motor control circuitry for the blades, a separate power line from the power input to the washing machine (10) is required. Providing a separate power line from the washing machine (10) requires consideration of the convenience of installing the filter device and safety hazards such as leakage or electric shock.

[0063] A washing machine (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a generator (200) connected to a first drain (151) as a power source separate from the washing machine (10) power source. The generator (200) may generate electricity through the flow of water drained through the first drain (151). The generator (200) may include a hydraulic generator that generates electricity through the flow of water - the pressure and / or velocity of the water. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first drain (151) may be a drain through which microplastics are filtered and through which filtered water flows. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second drain (152) may be a bypass drain for draining water when the filter is full of microplastics.

[0064] Although not shown in FIG. 3, the filter device (100) may include a filter for separating microplastics from water, a blade for compressing the microplastics in one direction within the filter, and a motor for driving the blade.

[0065] Figure 4 is a diagram of the internal configuration of a filter device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a filter device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 6 is an internal configuration diagram of a filter device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure viewed from a different angle.

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, the filter device (100) may include a filter housing (101) that accommodates various components. The filter housing (101) may include a housing body (102), a housing cover (103), and a housing bracket (104). For example, the housing body (102), the housing cover (103), and the housing bracket (104) may each be provided as separate components. For example, the housing body (102) may be formed integrally with the housing cover (103). For example, the housing body (102) may be formed integrally with the housing bracket (104). For example, the housing cover (103) may be formed integrally with the housing bracket (104). Also, for example, the housing body (102) may be formed integrally with the housing cover (103) and the housing bracket (104).

[0069] The housing body (102) may be provided with a space capable of accommodating various components. The housing body (102) may have a cross-section that is approximately U-shaped and perpendicular to the direction in which the filter (120) accommodated therein extends. The housing body (102) may have a box shape with an open front, rear, and top. The housing body (102) may be detachably coupled to a housing cover (103) and / or a housing bracket (104).

[0070] The housing body (102) may include a housing inlet (102a) for introducing water into the interior of the filter device (100) and a housing discharge (102b) for discharging water inside the filter device (100) to the exterior of the filter device (100). The housing inlet (102a) and / or the housing discharge (102b) may be located at the lower portion of the housing body (102).

[0071] The housing inlet (102a) can be connected to the drain (74) of the washing machine (10). The housing outlet (102b) can be connected to the integrated drain (107).

[0072] A housing cover (103) may be provided to cover the open front and upper surface of the housing body (102). The housing cover (103) may be detachably coupled to the housing body (102) and / or the housing bracket (104). The housing cover (103) may include a cover opening (103a) formed to allow a filter (120) to pass through. The housing cover (103) may include a display portion (103b) that displays whether a user interface device (192) is installed and whether microplastics are currently present. At least a portion of the user interface device (192) may be exposed to the outside of the filter device (100) through the display portion (103b).

[0073] A housing bracket (104) may be provided to cover the open rear surface of the housing body (102). The housing bracket (104) may be detachably coupled to the housing body (102) and / or the housing cover (103). The housing bracket (104) may include a cable opening (104a) formed to allow a power supply line (109) to pass through, which serves as a passage for supplying power generated from a generator (200) to a charger within the filter device (100). The housing bracket (104) may include a connector mounting portion (104b) formed to allow a connector (108) for communication with an external device, including a washing machine (10), to be connected.

[0074] The filter device (100) may include a filter case (110) positioned inside the filter housing (101). The filter case (110) may form a passage through which water flowing into the filter device (100) passes. The filter case (110) may be provided to accommodate a filter (120). The filter case (110) may include a case body (111) and a case cover (112).

[0075] The case body (111) may extend along the direction in which the filter (120) accommodated therein extends. The case body (111) may include a case opening (111a) formed to allow the filter (120) to pass through. The case opening (111a) may be provided to correspond to the cover opening (103a). The case opening (111a) may be positioned closer to the case outlet (111b) than to the case inlet (112a), and may be provided to allow the filter (120) to pass through.

[0076] The case body (111) may be connected to a first drainage channel (151) and a second drainage channel (152) for discharging water flowing into the filter case (110) from the filter case (110). The first drainage channel (151) and the second drainage channel (152) may be combined to form an integrated drainage channel (107). The second drainage channel (152) may be used as a bypass path for draining water when the first drainage channel (151) cannot be used due to accumulation of microplastics in the filter (120). Although not shown, the second drainage channel (152) may have a drainage passage that can be opened and closed by a switch. The case discharge portion (111b) may be located at the lower portion of the case body (111). The case discharge portion (111b) may be connected to the first drainage channel (151). The case discharge portion (111b) may be positioned close to the other end opposite to the end where the filter opening (120a) of the filter (120) is positioned. The case discharge portion (111b) may be positioned closer to the second filter portion (122) than to the first filter portion (121) of the filter (120). When the microplastics are compressed and accumulated by the blade (131), they may be gathered at the end of the second filter portion (122).

[0077] The integrated drain (107) can be connected to the housing discharge port (102b). The generator (200) can produce electricity through water drained from the housing discharge port (102b).

[0078] The case cover (112) can be detachably coupled to one end of the case body (111) opposite to the end where the case opening (111a) is located. For example, the case cover (112) can be formed integrally with the case body (111).

[0079] The case cover (112) may include a case inlet (112a) for allowing water to flow into the interior of the filter case (110). The case inlet (112a) may be connected to the housing inlet (102a). The filter device (100) may include an inlet guide (106) for connecting the case inlet (112a) and the housing inlet (102a). The case cover (112) may include a motor mounting portion (112b) for mounting a blade driving device (130). The motor mounting portion (112b) may be located above the case inlet (112a). A motor (136) of the blade driving device (130) may be mounted on the motor mounting portion (112b). The motor (136) may be an AC motor or a DC motor. The motor (136) may be driven by power from a charger (199).

[0080] The filter device (100) may include a filter (120) that is detachably connectable to a filter case (110). The filter (120) may be configured to capture fine foreign substances and filter water. The filter (120) may be configured to capture fine plastic particles having a size of approximately 5 mm or less. The filter (120) may include a mesh filter. The filter (120) may extend approximately between the case inlet (112a) and the case outlet (111b).

[0081] The filter (120) may include a filter opening (120a) that opens toward the case inlet (112a) when mounted on the filter case (110). Water flowing into the filter case (110) through the case inlet (112a) may move into the interior of the filter (120) through the filter opening (120a).

[0082] According to one embodiment, the filter (120) may include a first filter unit (121) and a second filter unit (122). The first filter unit (121) may be positioned closer to the case inlet (112a) than the second filter unit (122). Water flowing into the filter case (110) may have foreign substances captured in the first filter unit (121), or may pass through the first filter unit (121) without being captured by the first filter unit (121) and then have foreign substances captured in the second filter unit (122). The foreign substances may include microplastics. The first filter unit (121) and the second filter unit (122) may be sequentially arranged along the direction in which the filter (120) extends. The second filter unit (122) can capture foreign substances transferred from the first filter unit (121) by the blade driving device (130). According to one embodiment, the first filter unit (121) and the second filter unit (122) of the filter (120) can be configured as one filter unit without distinction.

[0083] The filter device (100) may include a handle (129) that is at least partially exposed to the outside of the filter housing (101) when the filter (120) is mounted in the filter case (110). The handle (129) may be detachably coupled to the filter (120). As the handle (129) is detachably coupled to the filter (120), the filter (120) may be easily maintained and / or repaired. The handle (129) may be rotatably coupled to the cover opening (103a) and / or the case opening (111a). In one embodiment, when the handle (129) is rotated by a user to remove captured microplastics from the filter (120), the second switch (not shown) that operates to open the second drain (152) as a triggering event may be turned off again. At this time, the processor (not shown) included in the filter device (100) can determine that the microplastics filled in the filter (120) are full and have been emptied again by the user due to a physical force applied when removing or re-installing the filter (120) - for example, a force applied when rotating the handle (129) or removing or re-installing the filter (120), and can close the second drain (152) by turning off the second switch. When the second drain (152) is closed, the first drain (151) can be used as a drain for water.

[0084] The filter device (100) may include a blade driving device (130) for compressing and capturing microplastics from the filter (120) to the end of the filter (120). The blade driving device (130) may be mounted on the filter case (110). The blade driving device (130) may include a rotating blade (131) for compressing foreign substances from the filter (120) to the end of the filter (120), and a motor driving device (135) for driving the blade (131).

[0085] The blade (131) may be positioned inside the filter (120). The blade (131) may be provided to correspond to the first filter section (121) of the filter (120). The blade (131) may have a spiral shape. The blade (131) may be provided to contact the surface of the filter (120) where foreign substances including microplastics are filtered. The blade (131) may be provided to contact the inner surface of the filter (120). For example, the blade (131) may include a plurality of brushes.

[0086] The blade (131) may be arranged to transfer and compress fine plastics filtered from a portion of the filter (120) close to the case inlet (112a) to a portion of the filter (120) close to the case outlet (111b) of the filter (120) while being driven by the blade driving device (135). The blade (131) may be arranged to transfer foreign substances filtered in the first filter section (121) to the second filter section (122). For example, the blade (131) may be rotatably provided inside the filter (120). The blade (131) may include a flexible material. The blade (131) may rotate while in contact with the filter (120) and transfer foreign substances filtered in the filter (120). The blade (131) can scrape and remove foreign substances attached to the filter surface of the filter (120) while being driven in contact with the filter (120). For example, the blade (131) can be provided so as to be slidable within the filter (120).

[0087] The blade (131) is arranged to transfer foreign substances filtered in the first filter unit (121) to the second filter unit (122), and as water flowing into the filter case (110) flows from the first filter unit (121) to the second filter unit (122), foreign substances filtered in the first filter unit (121) can be efficiently collected in the second filter unit (122).

[0088] The blade driving device (135) may include a motor (136) and a motor shaft (137). The motor (136) may be configured to generate power to drive the blade (131). The motor shaft (137) may be connected to the blade (131). The motor (136) may be mounted on the filter case (110).

[0089] The filter device (100) may include a front part (190) positioned inside the filter housing (101). The front part (190) may be positioned at the upper end of the inside of the filter housing (101). The front part (190) may be positioned on one side of the filter case (110). For example, the front part (190) may be positioned on the upper side of the filter case (110). For example, the front part (190) may be positioned on the upper side of the filter (120), but is not limited thereto.

[0090] The electric part (190) may include a control part (191) for controlling the filter device (100), a communication part for communicating with the washing machine (10), and a charger (199) for charging electricity (electricity) produced from a generator (200) and driving a motor (136) through the charged electricity (electricity).

[0091] The filter device (100) may include a user interface device (192) positioned on the upper side of the front part (190). At least a portion of the user interface device (192) may be exposed to the outside of the filter device (100) through the display part (103b) of the filter housing (101). The user interface device (192) may be positioned on the upper surface of the filter device (100). The user interface device (192) may include a power button (192a) and a WiFi connection button (192b).

[0092] The filter device (100) may include a display (103c) that displays visualized information related to the filter device (100). The display (103c) may be located on the upper surface of the filter device (100). For example, the display (103c) may be provided as a component of a user interface device (192).

[0093] The filter device (100) may include a filter sensor (181) that obtains information about the state of the filter (120). The filter sensor (181) may be mounted on the filter case (110). The filter sensor (181) may be located on the outside of the filter case (110). For example, the filter sensor (181) may include a magnetic sensor. For example, the filter sensor (181) may include a light sensor. According to one embodiment, the light sensor may sense whether the filter (120) is full of microplastics. The light sensor may sense whether the filter (120) is full of microplastics through an operation in which light transmitted from a light transmitting unit is blocked by the microplastics when the filter (120) is full of microplastics, and the light receiving unit cannot receive the light. The light sensor may therefore be installed to sense the end point of the blade (131).

[0094] The filter device (100) may include a water supply sensor (182) for detecting the supply of water to the filter device (100). The water supply sensor (182) may be mounted on the lower portion of the filter case (110). The water supply sensor (182) may be located close to the case inlet (112a) of the filter case (110).

[0095] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a generator (200) connected to a housing discharge port (102b) may be provided outside the filter device (100). The generator (200) may include, but is not limited to, a hydraulic generator that generates electricity by utilizing the flow of water drained through the housing discharge port (102b). The electricity produced by the generator (200) may be supplied to a charger (199) of the filter device (100) through a power supply line (109). The charger (199) charges the electricity produced by the generator (200), and the charged electricity may be used to drive the control unit (90) and / or the motor (136). In FIG. 4, the generator (200) is illustrated as being connected to the integrated drainage channel (107) in which the first drainage channel (151) and the second drainage channel (152) are combined, but this is only one embodiment. If the first drainage channel (151) and the second drainage channel (152) are not combined but are provided as separate drainage channels, the generator (200) may be connected only to the first drainage channel (151) according to one embodiment. In this case, the second drainage channel (152) may drain water through a separate second housing discharge port (not illustrated) provided in the filter device (100). The preceding FIG. 3 illustrates the generator (200) being connected only to the first drainage channel (151).

[0096] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a washing machine including a filter device and a generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] The washing machine (10) according to Fig. 7 differs from the washing machine (10) disclosed in Fig. 3 in that the generator (200) is connected to an integrated drain (107) that combines the first drain (151) and the second drain (152). The integrated drain (107) can be seen as being connected to the housing discharge portion (102b) as seen in the preceding Figs. 4 to 6.

[0098] According to FIG. 7, the generator (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can generate power even when water is drained from the first drain (151), and can also generate power even when water is drained from the second drain (152), which is a detour path required for water to be drained when the filter (120) is filled with microplastics.

[0099] The method of opening the second drain (152), which is a detour path required for water to drain when the filter is full of microplastics, will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 8.

[0100] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a filter device and a generator in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0101] The washing machine (10) uses a pump (not shown) to discharge water outside the washing machine (10) during dehydration or drainage, and the discharged water flows into the filter (120) through the inlet (155) of the filter device (100) to remove microplastics. At this time, the second switch (172) provided to allow water to drain through a bypass path is basically closed, so that the inflowed water flows into the filter (120).

[0102] Referring to FIG. 8, according to one embodiment, the motor (136) may drive the blade (131) to compress the microplastics to the right end of the filter (120) after a predetermined time has passed after the drainage is completed. The blade (131) may be a screw type blade, but is not limited thereto. When the microplastics are compressed by driving the blade (131) to force them to one side of the filter (120), the number of times the filter (120) must be cleaned can be prevented from increasing due to the microplastics randomly accumulating in the filter (120) and clogging the filter (120). In other words, when the microplastics are compressed by driving the blade (131) to force them to one side of the filter (120), the number of times the filter (120) must be removed to remove the microplastics can be reduced. The filter (120) is made in the form of a very fine mesh, so that microplastics cannot pass through the filter (120), and only pure water flows out of the filter (120) and is ultimately discharged through the drain.

[0103] In one embodiment, when water flowing out of the filter (120) is discharged through the first drain (151), the generator (200) can generate electricity through the flowing water. In one embodiment, the generator (200) can include a hydraulic generator that can generate an alternating voltage using the flowing water. The generator (200) can include a water turbine for power generation. In one embodiment, the generator (200) can be any type of generator that can secure as much electrical energy as possible even with a small amount of water. For example, the generator (200) can be an impulse generator that uses a nozzle method to narrow the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle to increase the speed of the water, thereby rotating the water turbine with the impact energy of the water to generate electricity. Alternatively, a method may be used in which the position of the generator (200) is lowered to the lowest part of the washing machine (10) to increase the pressure of the water falling from the filter device (100).

[0104] The alternating current voltage generated by the generator (200) can be converted into a direct current voltage through a rectifier (196). The direct current voltage rectified by the rectifier (196) can be stored as electrical energy in a charger (199) through a charging circuit (198). The charger (199) is a device capable of storing electricity and may include at least one of a supercapacitor and a battery.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the initiation of spin-drying or draining of the washing machine (10) can be detected through a voltage detector (197). The voltage detector (197) can detect the magnitude of the direct current voltage converted through the rectifier (196). The voltage detector (197) can detect the voltage of the power generated from the generator (200), and a processor (not shown) included in the control unit (191) can detect that water is being drained from the washing machine (10) based on the voltage detected by the voltage detector (197).

[0106] According to one embodiment, the first switch (171) is disposed between the charger (199) and the motor (136), and the processor of the control unit (191) turns off the first switch (171) so that the motor (136) is not driven when a voltage is detected by the voltage detector (197). According to one embodiment, if no voltage is generated by the voltage detector (197) for a predetermined period of time, the processor determines that the spin-drying or draining of the washing machine (10) is completed, and turns on the first switch (171) to drive the motor (136). The predetermined period of time may be, for example, a value greater than 2 seconds. According to one embodiment, the predetermined period of time may vary depending on the capacity of the capacitor included in the charging circuit (198). More details will be described later with reference to FIGS. 11A and 11B. The motor (136) may be either a direct current (DC) motor or an alternating current (AC) motor. When an AC motor is used, an inverter capable of converting direct current voltage into alternating current voltage may be positioned between the charger (199) and the motor (136). When the motor (136) is driven, the blade (131) rotates, causing the microplastics irregularly accumulated inside the filter (120) to be compressed and accumulated at the end of the filter (120).

[0107] In one embodiment, as discussed above, the motor (136) does not always operate. When the spin-drying or draining process is completed in the washing machine (10) and a predetermined period of time has passed, the first switch (171) is controlled by the processor of the control unit (191) so that the motor (136) operates for a predetermined period of time using energy stored in the charger (199).

[0108] When the motor (136) operates, the microplastics are compressed and accumulated in the longitudinal direction of the filter (120) by the rotation of the blade (131). Therefore, no microplastics are found between the starting point and the end point of the blade (131). Here, the starting point of the blade (131) is a point close to the motor (136), and the end point is a point close to the end of the filter (120) where the microplastics accumulate. When the microplastics accumulate from the end of the filter (120) to the end point of the blade (131), there is no more space to accommodate the microplastics within the filter (120).

[0109] When microplastics accumulate to the end of the blade (131), the motor (136) does not rotate due to interference from the microplastics. In other words, interference from the microplastics causes an overload of the motor (136), so the motor (136) does not rotate. At this time, if a current detector (not shown) is placed on the output line of the motor (136), the current detector detects that a predetermined current significantly greater than the rated current flows due to the overload. The processor detects the overload (overcurrent) through the current detector on the output of the motor (136) to determine that there is no more space for the microplastics to be compressed inside the filter (120) - that the microplastics have exceeded a predetermined amount at which they can no longer be accumulated. Accordingly, when the filter (120) becomes filled with microplastics in this way, the processor can notify the user to remove the filter (120) to remove the microplastics. According to one embodiment, the notification can be made through the display unit (103b) as an output interface. For example, a user may be notified that the filter (120) is full of microplastics by changing the display content of the display unit (103b). The change in the display unit (103b) may include a color change, such as changing from a blue indicator to a red indicator. The display unit (103b) may include a display. In one embodiment, the notification to the user may be made via voice. For voice notification, the filter device (100) may include an output interface, such as a speaker.

[0110] According to one embodiment, a rotation detector (183) for detecting the rotation of the motor (136) within the filter device (100) may be further included. The rotation detector (183) may include an encoder or a hall sensor. Through the output of the rotation detector (183), the processor can determine whether the motor (136) is rotating and at what speed when the first switch (171) is turned on. If microplastics accumulate up to the end point of the blade (131), the motor (1360) does not rotate even when the motor (136) is driven due to interference from the microplastics, so the processor can determine that the microplastics have accumulated up to the end point of the blade (131) and that the amount of microplastics that can no longer accumulate within the filter (120) has exceeded a predetermined amount.

[0111] In one embodiment, when it is determined that a predetermined amount of microplastics can no longer accumulate within the filter (120) and the user is not taking action to remove the microplastics by removing the filter (120), the processor controls the second switch (172) to open the second drain (152) to facilitate drainage. The second switch (172) is a switch that opens or closes the second drain (152). For example, when the second switch (172) is turned on, water is discharged through the second drain (152), which is a bypass route, rather than the first drain (151). In other words, the processor controls the filter device (100) so that water flows out through the second drain (152) without passing through the filter (120). Water flowing out through the second drain (152) will be discharged without microplastics being removed.

[0112] In one embodiment, the processor may cause an alarm to sound continuously and / or periodically while the second switch (172) is on to prompt the user to clean the filter (120).

[0113] In one embodiment, when the filter (120) is removed and then reinstalled, the display (103b) no longer displays an indication to the user that the filter (120) needs to be cleaned. Detecting that the filter (120) has been removed and then reinstalled can be accomplished, for example, by a physical switch.

[0114] In one embodiment, this may be accomplished by a physical switch that detects that the filter (120) has been removed and then re-installed.

[0115] In one embodiment, detecting that the filter (120) has been removed and then re-installed may also be accomplished, for example, via a light sensor.

[0116] Detecting that the filter (120) has been removed and then re-installed can be accomplished by any one of a current detector, a rotation detector, or a light sensor, as discussed above.

[0117] Refer to FIGS. 12a and 12b to explain a method for detecting that a filter (120) has been removed and then re-installed.

[0118] FIG. 12A is a diagram showing detection of a filter being removed and then re-installed by a physical switch according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 12a, a structure is illustrated in which a filter (120) is separated from a filter case (110) in a filter device (100). The filter case (110) may be provided to accommodate the filter (120). The filter case (110) may include a case opening (111a) formed to allow the filter (120) to pass through.

[0120] The filter device (100) may include a handle (129) that is at least partially exposed to the outside of the filter housing (not shown) when the filter (120) is mounted in the filter case (110). The handle (129) may be detachably coupled to the filter (120). The handle (129) may be rotatably coupled to the cover opening (103a). In one embodiment, when the handle (129) is rotated by a user to remove captured microplastics from the filter (120), the rotation may become a triggering event that causes a second switch (not shown) that was operated to open the second drain (152) to be turned off again.

[0121] At this time, the processor (not shown) included in the filter device (100) determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter (120) is less than a predetermined amount due to the user removing the microplastics filled in the filter (120) again based on an event caused by a physical force due to the removal or re-installation of the filter (120) - for example, a rotation of the handle (129) or a force applied when removing or re-installing the filter (120), and turns off the second switch to close the second drain (152). When the second drain (152) is closed, the first drain (151) can be used as a drain for water.

[0122] At this time, in order to use the force caused by the rotation of the handle (129) as a physical switch, a handle switch (129a) may be mounted on a part of the handle (129) as shown in Fig. 12a. The handle switch (129a) may operate the second switch (172), which is a physical switch, when the handle (129) is rotated to remove or mount the filter (120).

[0123] In one embodiment, when the handle (129) is rotated, the rotation of the handle switch (129a), for example, when the handle switch (129a) is grounded, the grounded signal can be used as a signal to turn off the second switch (172).

[0124] The operation of the handle switch (129a) may generate a signal in the electrical circuit to cause the processor to turn off the second switch (172) and close the second drain (152). Alternatively, the operation of the handle switch (129a) may be linked to an operation that directly turns off the second switch (172) without relying on the processor. When the second switch (172) is turned off, the second drain (152) is closed, and the water is filtered again within the filter (120) and can be drained through the first drain (151). When the operation of the handle switch (129a) is linked to an operation that directly turns off the second switch (172), the second switch (172) may be a physical switch that is linked to the operation of the handle switch (129a), rather than a switch that is electronically controlled by the processor. In this case, the processor needs to recognize that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter (120) is less than the predetermined amount filled in the filter (120). In one embodiment, since the processor recognizes the event that the amount of microplastics has become the predetermined amount and is filled in the filter (120), if the current detected by the current detector after the second switch (172) is turned on through this event is lower than the predetermined current value corresponding to the overload, it can be determined that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter (120) is less than the predetermined amount.

[0125] This is only one example, and the processor may determine in other ways that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter (120) is less than a predetermined amount. For example, in one embodiment, since the processor is aware of an event in which the amount of microplastics reaches a predetermined amount and fills the filter (120), if the processor detects that the motor (136) can rotate again by the rotation detector (183) after the second switch (172) is turned on through this event, it may determine that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter (120) is less than a predetermined amount.

[0126] In one embodiment, since the processor is aware of an event in which the amount of microplastics reaches a predetermined amount and fills the filter (120), the processor can determine that the amount of microplastics accumulated by the light sensor (185) is less than the predetermined amount after the second switch (172) is turned on through this event. In other words, if the light transmitted from the light transmission unit (185a) of the light sensor (185) is received again by the light reception unit (185b), it means that the microplastics are not at the tip of the blade (131), and thus the processor can determine that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter (1200) is less than the predetermined amount.

[0127] The physical switch according to Fig. 12a is only an example, and the physical switch in the filter device (100) can be implemented in various forms.

[0128] FIG. 12b is a diagram showing a method of detecting that a filter has been removed and then re-installed by a light sensor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 12b, a light sensor (175) is provided to determine whether the filter (120) has been removed or mounted. The light sensor (175) may include a light transmission unit (175a) and a light reception unit (175b). Light transmitted from the light transmission unit (175a) may be received by the light reception unit (175b). When the filter (120) is mounted on the filter case (110), the filter (120) blocks the light transmitted from the light transmission unit (175a) from reaching the light reception unit (175b). Therefore, the processor in the filter device (100) can determine that the filter (120) is mounted on the filter case (110) if light does not reach the light reception unit (175b).

[0130] The use of the optical sensor (175) to detect the event of removing the filter (120) in FIG. 12B is only one embodiment, and the event of removing the filter (120) may be detected in other ways. According to one embodiment, the event of removing the filter (120) may be generated by the operation of a physical switch when removing the filter (120). Similarly, the event of mounting the filter (120) may be detected by the operation of a physical switch when mounting the filter (120).

[0131] In one embodiment, if an event occurs where microplastics are full within the filter (120), and light does not reach the light receiving unit (175b), the filter (120) is not removed from the filter case (110), and thus the processor may notify the user that the filter (120) needs to be cleaned.

[0132] If the user removes the filter (120), the light transmitted from the light transmitting unit (175a) reaches the light receiving unit (175b), so the processor can determine that the filter (120) has been removed. Accordingly, when the filter (120) is re-attached, the light receiving unit (175b) cannot receive light, and the processor determines that the microplastics have been removed from the filter (120). In other words, the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter (120) is less than a predetermined amount that is determined to be full, so it turns off the second switch (172) to close the second drain (152). Since the second drain (152) is closed, the water after washing is filtered again in the filter (120), so that the microplastics accumulate in the filter (120). The water is filtered in the filter (120) and then discharged through the first drain (151).

[0133] However, let's assume that the user has removed the filter (120) and then reinstalled the filter (120) into the filter case (110) without removing the microplastics. If the filter (120) is installed again without removing the microplastics, the light receiving unit (175b) will not receive light from the light transmitting unit (175a), and the processor will determine that the microplastics have been removed from the filter (120) and close the second drain (152) through the second switch (172). The water will be filtered by the filter (120) and then discharged through the first drain (151), and the generator (200) will again produce electricity (energy). The processor tries to drive the motor (136), but since it will not drive, as seen in the previous drawing 8, it detects that the microplastics are still not removed from the filter (120) through at least one of the current detector, the rotation detector (183), and the light sensor (185) that detects the accumulation of microplastics, and then opens the second drain (152) through the second switch (172) and notifies the user to remove the microplastics from the filter (120).

[0134] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a filter device and a generator in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0135] The difference between the filter device (100) according to FIG. 9 and the filter device (100) of FIG. 8 is that the means for detecting the accumulation of microplastics up to the end point of the blade (131) within the filter (120) is a light sensor (185).

[0136] The light sensor (185) may include a light transmitting unit (185a) and a light receiving unit (185b). The light transmitted from the light transmitting unit (185a) is received by the light receiving unit (185b) if the microplastics do not reach the end of the blade (131). Conversely, the light transmitted from the light transmitting unit (185a) is not received by the light receiving unit (185b) if the microplastics reach the end of the blade (131). Therefore, if the processor does not receive light from the light receiving unit (185b), it determines that the microplastics have reached the end of the blade (131) - that is, the microplastics have exceeded a predetermined amount at which the microplastics can no longer accumulate in the filter (120), and the processor may notify the user to remove the filter (120) to remove the microplastics. The notification may be performed through the display unit (103b), according to one embodiment. For example, by changing the display content of the display unit (103b), the washing machine (10) can notify the user that the filter (120) is full of microplastics.

[0137] In one embodiment, before the operation of the blade (131), the microplastics within the filter (120) may not be compressed and may exist randomly within the filter (120). Therefore, since the uncompressed microplastics may prevent the light receiver (185b) from receiving light, if the light receiver (185b) continues to not receive light for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 5 seconds) after the blade (131) is controlled to operate or the first switch (171) is turned on, the processor may determine that the microplastics within the filter (120) have exceeded a predetermined amount beyond which they can no longer accumulate.

[0138] In one embodiment, when the processor determines that the amount of microplastics that can no longer accumulate within the filter (120) has exceeded a predetermined amount, the processor controls the second switch (172) to open the second drain (152). The second switch (172) is a switch that opens or closes the second drain (152). For example, when the second switch (172) is turned on, water is discharged through the second drain (152), which is a bypass route, rather than the first drain (151).

[0139] According to one embodiment, the light sensor (175) including the light transmitting unit (175a) and the light receiving unit (175b) according to FIG. 12 may be replaced by the light sensor (185) disclosed with reference to FIG. 9 above.

[0140] The optical sensor (185) disclosed with reference to FIG. 9 is an optical sensor that detects whether the filter (120) is full of microplastics. If the microplastics are removed from the filter (120), the light transmitted from the light transmitting unit (185a) of the optical sensor (185) will be received by the light receiving unit (185b). When the light is received by the light receiving unit (185b), the processor determines that the microplastics are removed from the filter (120) and closes the second drain (152) through the second switch (172). After being filtered by the filter (120), the water is discharged through the first drain (151), and the generator (200) produces electrical energy again.

[0141] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a filter device and a generator in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0142] The difference between the filter device (100) and the generator (200) according to Fig. 10 and those of Figs. 8 and 9 is that the generator (200) is connected to an integrated drainage channel (107) in which the first drainage channel (151) and the second drainage channel (152) are combined into one. Even when the filter (120) is filled with microplastics and the second drainage channel (152), which is a bypass drainage channel, is opened, the generator (200) according to Fig. 10 can generate power. Accordingly, the generator (200) according to Fig. 10 can produce electrical energy to charge the charger (199) even when the filter (120) is filled with microplastics.

[0143] The filter device (100) and generator (200) according to FIG. 10 can be applied to all other embodiments of FIGS. 8, 9, 12a and 12b, except that the generator (200) is connected to an integrated drainage channel (107) in which the first drainage channel (151) and the second drainage channel (152) are combined into one.

[0144] FIG. 11A is a control circuit diagram of a voltage detection method and a charger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] The generator (200) may include a hydraulic generator. The generator (200) may generate electrical energy by driving a water turbine using the impact or pressure energy of water discharged from the washing machine (10). When the generator (200) uses a method of increasing the speed of water to impact the water turbine, the speed of the water can be increased by reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the nozzle. However, when the water contains microplastics, the nozzle may become clogged. However, when the generator (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure uses water discharged from the first drain (151), the microplastics are filtered out by the filter (120), so the nozzle does not become clogged.

[0146] The output voltage of the generator (200) varies depending on the speed of water flow or the amount of water. Therefore, the charging circuit (198) may include a boost / buck converter (193) capable of both boosting and bucking so as to supply a constant current or constant voltage to the charger (199). If the motor (136) is a DC motor and the input voltage is high, for example, 12 V, and the cell voltage of one battery included in the charger (199) is 4.0 V, the charger (199) may be configured with three cells connected in series. If the batteries in the charger (199) are connected in parallel, the voltages between the batteries automatically become equal, eliminating the need for separate cell balancing control. However, if the batteries in the charger (199) are connected in series, the cell voltages of each battery may be different, requiring cell balancing control. If cell balancing control is not performed for each battery cell, the voltages of each battery cell may differ, causing a specific battery to be overcharged or overdischarged, thereby shortening the battery's lifespan. Therefore, the control unit (191) may include a hardware circuit or software for performing cell balancing control to ensure that the voltages of each battery cell are the same.

[0147] Referring to FIG. 11A, a more specific embodiment of a voltage detection method and charger (199) control according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. A generator (200) according to the present disclosure utilizes water impact or pressure energy to produce electrical energy and supplies it to the charger (199). Since the motor (136) uses the limited electrical energy stored in the charger (199), unnecessary electrical energy leakage needs to be minimized.

[0148] Accordingly, as shown in Fig. 11a, the charging circuit includes a first switch (171). The first switch (171) is a switch that turns on and off the electrical connection to the motor (136), and is a type of load switch since the motor (136) is connected to a load. Normally, the first switch (171) is kept in an off state. The cell balancing control that compensates for the voltage difference between the battery cells of the charger (199) is performed only while the motor (136) is driven, and the cell balancing control is not performed when the first switch (171) is turned off. This method allows the filter device (100) to effectively utilize electric energy with minimal electric energy loss. In order to minimize the battery loss of the charger (199), the processor (not shown) in the control unit (191) basically operates in a low-power mode. At the moment when electric energy (AC voltage) is generated in the generator (200) and rectified by the rectifier (196), the capacitor C1 (1977) of Fig. 11a begins to charge the electric energy distributed by the resistors R1 (1971) and R2 (1972). If R1 (1971) and R2 (1972) are set to very large values, the loss due to the resistance can be minimized. The Zener diode ZD1 (1975) prevents a voltage exceeding a certain level from being applied to C1 (1977) in order to protect the input port of the processor of the control unit (191).

[0149] When the draining of water in the washing machine (10) is completed, the generator (200) no longer generates electrical energy and the voltage at the input terminal of R3 (1978) drops sharply. If the base voltage of TR1 (1979), which is a PNP type transistor, becomes lower than a predetermined threshold voltage relative to the emitter voltage, TR1 (1979) turns on and the energy stored in C1 (1977) is rapidly discharged through TR1 (1979).

[0150] Refer to Fig. 11b to examine charging and discharging in C1 (1977).

[0151] FIG. 11b is a graph showing charging and discharging of a capacitor according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0152] Referring to Fig. 11b, the length of the charging start section of C1 (1977) is relatively long because the values ​​of R1 (1971) and R2 (1972) are large. When TR1 (1979) is turned on, the energy charged in C1 (1977) is rapidly discharged through TR1 (1979), but the length of the discharge section is shorter than the length of the charging start section.

[0153] Returning to FIG. 11a, a short discharge at C1 (1977) can be used as a wake-up signal (1995) for the processor in the control unit (191). The wake-up trigger input port of the processor in the control unit (191) may be set to be triggered in advance on the falling edge, but is not necessarily limited thereto, and the wake-up trigger input port of the processor may also be set to be triggered in advance on the rising edge.

[0154] When a short discharge signal of C1 (1977) is input as a wake-up signal to the wake-up trigger input port of the processor, the processor can wake up from the low power mode. That is, the processor basically operates in the low power mode and can return to the normal mode only when the draining of the washing machine (10) is completed. In the present disclosure, the ultra-low power mode of the processor is a mode in which only the essential functions of the processor are activated so as to minimize the electric energy consumption of the processor. For example, the processor operates only the essential functions including the internal clock in the low power mode. The normal mode of the processor means a mode in which all blocks necessary for the general operation of the processor, such as the internal CPU and timer, are operated although the power consumption is higher than that of the low power mode. When the processor returns to the normal mode, the control unit (191) detects the voltage difference between the battery cells and controls the on-off of the charger discharge switch (1991) to discharge the corresponding cell when the voltage of a specific battery cell is charged more (higher voltage) than that of other cells. When the voltage of a specific battery cell is charged more (higher voltage) than that of other cells, the control unit (191) controls the charger discharge switch (1991) to turn on so that electrical energy is consumed in the resistor.

[0155] In addition, the control unit (191) can control the motor (136) to operate for a certain period of time by turning on the first switch (171). The motor (136) operates for a predetermined period of time, and at this time, the blade (131) operates to perform a compression process of moving the microplastics irregularly distributed inside the filter (120) to the end of the filter (120). After the processor of the control unit (191) drives the motor (136) for a predetermined period of time - in other words, after keeping the first switch (171) turned on - the processor of the control unit (191) turns off the first switch (171) and then enters a low power mode.

[0156] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0157] As illustrated in FIG. 13, a washing machine (10) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a user interface device (15), a driving device (40), a water supply device (50), a drainage device (70), a control unit (90), a communication interface (96), a filter device (100), and a generator (200).

[0158] Below, we will look at the above components in turn.

[0159] The user interface device (15) may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and a washing machine (10). The user interface device (15) may include at least one input interface (16) and at least one output interface (17).

[0160] The input interface (16) can convert information received from the user into an electrical signal. At least one input interface (16) can include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The input interface (16) can include, but is not limited to, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0161] The input interface (16) may include a voice recognition module. For example, the washing machine (10) may receive a voice signal, which is an analog signal, through a microphone, and convert the voice portion into computer-readable text using an Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) model. The washing machine (10) may interpret the converted text using a Natural Language Understanding (NLU) model to obtain the user's speech intent. Here, the ASR model or the NLU model may be an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be processed by an artificial intelligence-dedicated processor designed with a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence model may be created through learning. Here, being created through learning means that a basic artificial intelligence model is learned using a plurality of learning data by a learning algorithm, thereby creating a predefined operation rule or artificial intelligence model set to perform a desired characteristic (or purpose). The artificial intelligence model may be composed of a plurality of neural network layers. Each of the multiple neural network layers has multiple weight values, and performs neural network operations through operations between the operation results of the previous layer and the multiple weight values.

[0162] Linguistic understanding is the technology of recognizing, applying, and processing human language / characters, including natural language processing, machine translation, dialog systems, question answering, and speech recognition / synthesis.

[0163] The output interface (17) can transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine (10) to the user. For example, the output interface (17) can transmit information related to the washing course, the operating time of the washing machine (10), and the washing setting / rinse setting / spin setting to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine (10) can be output through a display unit, a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. Information related to the operation of the washing machine (10) can be output through a display. The output interface (17) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0164] The driving device (40) may include a driving motor (41) that provides driving force to rotate the drum (30). The driving device (40) may operate based on a control signal from the control unit (90).

[0165] The water supply device (50) may include a water supply valve (56) that opens and closes a water supply pipe (51) extending from an external water source to the detergent supply device (60) and / or the tub (20). The water supply valve (56) may be opened and closed based on a control signal from the control unit (90).

[0166] The drainage device (70) may include a drainage pump (73) for discharging water from the tub (20) to the outside of the washing machine housing (11). The drainage pump (73) may operate based on a control signal from the control unit (90). Water discharged by the drainage device (70) may be drained through a filter device (100).

[0167] The washing machine (10) may include a communication interface (96) for communicating with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, an appliance, and / or a filter device (100)) via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0168] The communication interface (96) may include a short-range wireless communication interface (961) and a long-range wireless communication interface (962). The short-range wireless communication interface (961) may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication interface, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication interface, a near field communication interface, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication interface, a Zigbee communication interface, an IrDA (infrared Data Association) communication interface, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication interface, an UWB (Ultra Wideband) communication interface, an ANT+ communication interface, etc. The long-range wireless communication interface (962) may be used to communicate with a server device (not shown) when the washing machine (10) is remotely controlled by the server device in an IoT (Internet of Things) environment. The long-range wireless communication interface (962) may include the Internet, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN), and a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network. Here, the wireless signals may include various types of data resulting from the transmission and reception of voice call signals, video call signals, or text / multimedia messages. The mobile communication unit may include, but is not limited to, a 3G module, a 4G module, an LTE module, a 5G module, a 6G module, an NB-IoT module, an LTE-M module, and the like.

[0169] The communication interface (96) can transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication interface (96) can establish communication with a filter device (100), a server, a user device, and / or other home appliances, and transmit and receive various data.

[0170] To this end, the communication interface (96) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication interface (96) may include a wireless communication interface (e.g., a cellular communication interface, a short-range wireless communication interface, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication interface) or a wired communication interface (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication interface, or a power line communication interface). Any of these communication interfaces may communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or a WAN)). These different types of communication interfaces may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0171] In one embodiment, the communication interface (96) can communicate with external devices such as a server, user devices, and other home appliances via a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine (10), the filter device (100), and / or the user devices are connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The filter device (100), the washing machine (10), and / or the user devices can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0172] The control unit (90) can control various components of the washing machine (10) (e.g., the driving unit (40), the water supply unit (50), and the drainage unit (70)). The control unit (90) can control various components of the washing machine (10) to perform at least one cycle including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying according to a user input. For example, the control unit (90) can control the driving motor (41) of the driving unit (40) to adjust the rotation speed of the drum (30), control the water supply valve (56) of the water supply unit (50) to supply water to the tub (20), or control the drainage pump (73) of the drainage unit (70) to discharge water in the tub (20) to the outside.

[0173] The control unit (90) may include hardware such as a processor, a CPU, a Micom, and a memory. For example, the control unit (90) may include at least one memory (92) that stores an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine (10), data in the form of a program, and an execution program, and at least one processor (91) that performs the operations described above and operations to be described below using data stored in the at least one memory (92). The memory (92) and the processor (91) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (91) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (92) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (92) and the processor (91) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0174] At least one processor (91) can control the overall operation of the washing machine (10). At least one processor (91) is a hardware device that controls the overall operation of the washing machine (10). At least one processor (91) is a hardware component (chip) that includes an integrated circuit in which electrical circuits are integrated.

[0175] The processor (91) may include various processing circuits and / or multiple processors. For example, the term "processor" as used herein, including in the claims, may include various processing circuits, including at least one processor. One or more processors in at least one processor may be configured to perform various functions described herein, individually and / or collectively, in a distributed fashion. As used herein, "processor," "at least one processor," and "one or more processors" may be configured to perform various functions. However, these terms, without limitation, encompass situations where one processor performs some of the functions and other processor(s) perform other parts of the functions, and situations where a single processor may perform all of the functions. Furthermore, the at least one processor may include a combination of processors that perform various functions of the disclosed functions in a distributed manner. The at least one processor may execute program instructions to achieve or perform various functions. The processor (91) may control the washing machine (10) by executing programs stored in the memory (92).

[0176] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine (10) may be equipped with an artificial intelligence (AI) processor. The AI ​​processor may be manufactured in the form of a dedicated hardware chip for artificial intelligence (AI), or may be manufactured as part of an existing general-purpose processor (e.g., CPU or application processor) or a graphics-only processor (e.g., GPU) and equipped in the washing machine (10).

[0177] Memory (92) can also store an artificial intelligence model.

[0178] The memory (92) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. In addition, the washing machine (10) may also operate a web storage or cloud server that performs a storage function on the Internet.

[0179] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a filter device and a generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] The filter device (100) is a device that uses a separate power source from the washing machine (10). In one embodiment, the filter device (100) may be an aftermarket product that can be purchased separately from the washing machine (10).

[0181] Figure 14 illustrates a filter device (100) and a generator (200).

[0182] A filter device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include, but is not limited to, a filter (120), a processor (140), an inlet (155), a first drain (151), a second drain (152), an integrated drain (107), a first switch (171), a second switch (172), a display unit (103b), a blade (131), a motor (136), a rectifier (196), a charging circuit (198), a charger (199), a voltage detector (197), a rotation detector (183), a current detector (184), and a light sensor (185). A filter device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include all or only some of the configurations disclosed in FIG. 14. For example, if the second drain (152) is not integrated with the first drain (151) and is used as a separate drain, the filter device (100) may not include the integrated drain (107). In addition, in the filter device (100) of FIG. 14, the display unit (103b), the voltage detector (197), the rotation detector (183), the current detector (184), and the light sensor (185) are not all essential components, and the filter device (100) may or may not include them.

[0183] Water discharged from the washing machine (10) flows into the filter (120) through the inlet (155), and the filter (120) filters out microplastics contained in the water. At this time, the water filtered by the filter (120) is discharged from the filter device (100) through the first drain (151). The water discharged through the first drain (151) flows into the generator (200), and the generator (200) generates electricity through the flowing water. The electricity produced by the generator (200) passes through the rectifier (196) and is stored in the charger (199) by the charging circuit (198). The charging circuit (198) may use a buck-boost converter. In other words, it may be used as a buck converter that reduces the voltage depending on the voltage level of the charger (199), or it may be used as a boost converter that increases the voltage.

[0184] The electric energy charged in the charger (199) can be used to drive the motor (136). At this time, the processor (140) can detect that electricity is produced through the voltage detector (197) and determine that water has been discharged from the filter (120). The processor (140) can drive the motor (136) after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the voltage is detected through the voltage detector (197). Since the detection of voltage by the voltage detector (197) means that water has been discharged and the generator (200) has been operated, and since it means that microplastics will be filtered out of the water and accumulated in the filter (120), the processor (140) operates the blade (131) after all or a certain amount of water has been discharged from the filter (120) - after a predetermined period of time has elapsed. After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, the processor (140) can control the on-off of the first switch (171) disposed between the motor (136) and the charger (199) to operate the motor (136).

[0185] The motor (136) can use a DC motor or an AC motor, and when an AC motor is used, an inverter for driving the motor (136) can be included at the rear end of the charger (199).

[0186] In one embodiment, the blade (131) compresses and accumulates microplastics within the filter (120) toward one end of the filter (120) by rotating. When the microplastics accumulate within the filter (120) and reach the end of the blade (131), the compressed and accumulated microplastics act as a load that prevents the blade (131) from rotating. Since the output current of the motor (136) increases above a predetermined current value due to the overload state in which the microplastics prevent the blade (131) from rotating, the current detector (184) detects that the output current of the motor (136) is above the predetermined current value.

[0187] In one embodiment, the processor (140) may control the second switch (172) to open the second drain (152) when the current detected by the current detector (184) is greater than or equal to a predetermined current value. The second drain (152) is a bypass drain that prevents water from flowing into the filter (120) filled with microplastics after washing. The processor (140) may also notify the user to remove the filter (120) to remove the microplastics. In one embodiment, the notification may be made through the display unit (103b).

[0188] According to one embodiment, the processor (140) may control the second switch (172) to open the second drain (152) when the rotation detector (183) detects that the motor (136) is not rotating even though a signal for driving the motor (136) is being output.

[0189] According to one embodiment, when the processor (140) detects that the microplastics have reached a predetermined amount (predetermined level) or more by the optical sensor (185) that detects the level of microplastic accumulation within the filter (120), the processor (140) determines that there is no more space for microplastics to accumulate within the filter (120) and controls the second switch (172) to open the second drain (152).

[0190] In one embodiment, the second drainage channel (152) may be a drainage channel that is not combined with the first drainage channel (151) and is drained separately. In one embodiment, the water in the second drainage channel (152) may be drained through the integrated drainage channel (107) connected to the first drainage channel (151). In addition, the generator (200) may be connected to the integrated drainage channel (107) according to one embodiment, so that power generation can be generated even if water is drained through the first drainage channel (151) or the second drainage channel (152).

[0191] In a situation where the second drain (152) is opened and water can be drained through the second drain (152) according to the operation of the second switch (172), the event in which the second switch (172) is operated and the second drain (152) is closed again is as follows.

[0192] In one embodiment, the event of the second drain (152) closing again may include an event of the handle (129) being operated (rotated) or an event of the filter (120) being separated when the user physically operates the handle (129) to separate the filter (120) from the filter device (100) to remove microplastics accumulated within the filter (120). This event may cause the second switch (172) to be turned off. As an example, the operation of the handle switch (129a) is connected to the on-off of the second switch (172) by rotating the handle (129) as described with reference to FIG. 11. In one embodiment, the second switch (172) may be an electrical switch or a physically operated switch.

[0193] In one embodiment, the event of the second drain (152) closing again may include the light sensor (175) receiving light to confirm that the filter (120) has been removed or mounted. As described above with reference to FIG. 12, the light sensor (175) may include a light transmitter (175a) and a light receiver (175b). Light emitted from the light transmitter (175a) may be received by the light receiver (175b). When the filter (120) is mounted on the filter case (110), the filter (120) blocks the light emitted from the light transmitter (175a) from reaching the light receiver (175b). Therefore, the processor (140) may determine that the filter (120) is mounted on the filter case (110) if no light reaches the light receiver (175b).

[0194] In one embodiment, if the user removes the filter (120), the light transmitted from the light transmitting unit (175a) reaches the light receiving unit (175b), so that the processor (140) can determine that the filter (120) has been removed. Accordingly, when the filter (120) is re-mounted, the light receiving unit (175b) cannot receive light, and the processor determines that the microplastics have been removed from the filter (120). In other words, the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter (120) is less than a predetermined amount that is determined to be full, so it turns off the second switch (172) to close the second drain (152). Since the second drain (152) is closed, the water after washing is filtered again within the filter (120), so that the microplastics accumulate within the filter (120). The water is filtered in the filter (120) and then discharged through the first drain (151).

[0195] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method for filtering microplastics by a filter device of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0196] In step S1501, microplastics contained in water flowing in through the inlet (155) connected to the filter device (100) are filtered through the filter (120) of the filter device (100).

[0197] In step S1503, microplastics contained in water are filtered out in a filter (120), and the water passes through the filter (120), passes through the first drain (151), and passes through the generator (200). At this time, the generator (200) generates electricity through the flowing water.

[0198] In step S1505, the charger (199) is charged with a voltage corresponding to the electric energy generated by the generator (200). The charger (199) is a storage that temporarily stores electricity, and the charger (199) may include a supercapacitor or a battery.

[0199] In step S1507, the motor (136) is driven by the power of the charger (199). At this time, the processor (140) or the driving processor that controls the driving of the motor (136) can drive the motor (136) after a predetermined time has elapsed from the time when drainage is performed. This is because it is desirable to compress the microplastics in the filter (120) to the end of the filter (120) only when drainage is completed or almost completed. Accordingly, the time when drainage is performed can be determined by detecting the voltage by the power generated by the generator (200) in the charger (199). Therefore, the processor (140) or the driving processor needs to drive the motor (136) after a predetermined time has elapsed from this time. After a predetermined period of time has elapsed, a first switch (171) controlled by the processor (140) or the driving processor may be placed between the motor (136) and the charger (199) to initiate operation of the motor (136). In one embodiment, if all the water has drained from the filter (120), the generator (200) will not produce electricity and there will be no voltage charged to the charger (199). Therefore, when the processor (140) or the driving processor detects voltage from the generator (200) for the first time and no more voltage is charged to the charger (199), the processor (140) or the driving processor may recognize that the drainage of the water is complete and turn on the first switch (171).

[0200] In step S1509, when the motor (136) operates, the blade (131) in the filter (120) connected to the motor (136) rotates, and the rotation of the blade (131) compresses and accumulates the microplastics in the filter (120) toward the end of the filter (120).

[0201] FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method of utilizing a bypass drain when a filter is full of microplastics according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0202] In step S1509 of the preceding drawing 15, microplastics are accumulated in the filter (120) by the blade (131). If this accumulation is repeated, the filter (120) may be filled with microplastics. In other words, if the microplastics rise to the end of the blade (131), the blade (131) reaches a point where it can no longer rotate.

[0203] Detecting that the filter (120) is full of microplastics can be accomplished by the following method.

[0204] In step S1601a, if the motor (136) operates to rotate the blade (131) but the blade (131) does not rotate due to microplastics, an overload condition occurs. Therefore, an excessive current flows through the motor (136) due to the overload condition. If the current flowing through the motor (136) exceeds a predetermined current value exceeding the rating, the processor (140) of the filter device (100) determines that the filter (120) is full of microplastics and controls the second switch (172) in step S1603 to open the second drain (152) so that water is diverted and drained.

[0205] Let us look at step S1601b as an example of detecting that the filter (120) is full of microplastics. Even though the motor (136) operates to rotate the blade (131), if the blade (131) does not rotate due to microplastics, rotation is not detected by the rotation detector (183). Therefore, if the rotation detector (183) does not detect rotation of the motor (136) even though a driving signal for driving the motor (136) is output, the processor (140) determines that the filter (120) is full of microplastics. The processor (140) of the filter device (100) determines that the filter (120) is full of microplastics and controls the second switch (172) in step S1603 to open the second drain (152) so that water is diverted and drained.

[0206] Step S1601c is examined as an embodiment of detecting that the filter (120) is full of microplastics. The light sensor (185) of the filter device (100) can detect the level of microplastics in the filter (120). The level of microplastics in the filter (120) can be determined by the light transmitting unit (185a) and the light receiving unit (185b) of the light sensors (185) arranged at both ends in the filter (120). If the light transmitted by the light transmitting unit (175a) is blocked by the microplastics in the filter (120) and is not received by the light receiving unit (175b), the processor (140) determines that the filter (120) is full of microplastics and controls the second switch (172) in step S1603 to open the second drain (152) so that water is diverted and drained.

[0207] When water is discharged into the second drain (152) according to step S1603, the second drain (152) may be formed as a separate drain from the first drain (151), or may be integrated with the first drain (151) so that water is discharged into the integrated drain (107). In the latter case, the generator (200) can generate power even when water is discharged from the second drain (152) as well as the first drain (151).

[0208] In step S1605, the processor (140) may notify the user to clean the filter (120) through an output interface. The output interface may include a display unit (103b).

[0209] In step S1607a, if the user desires to clean the filter (120) in accordance with the notification via the output interface, the filter (120) is separated from the filter device (100). At this time, the user uses a physical force to rotate the handle (129) when separating the filter (120) from the filter device (100). The physical force by the handle (129) may be a physical force that closes the second drain (152). In other words, the physical force by the handle (129) may correspond to the operation of the second switch (172) that closes the second drain (152). When the second switch (172) is turned off, the second drain (152) is closed in step S1608.

[0210] In step S1607b, when the user desires to clean the filter (120) in accordance with the notification via the output interface, the filter (120) is separated from the filter device (100) and the filter (120) is cleaned. When the filter (120) is re-mounted, the motor (136) is driven so that the blade (131) can rotate, thereby causing the current to become lower than a current value corresponding to an overload. The processor (140) determines that the filter (120) is not full of microplastics and turns off the second switch (172). In step S1609, the second drain (152) is closed by the second switch (172) being turned off.

[0211] In step S1607c, when the user wants to clean the filter (120) according to the notification by the output interface, the filter (120) is separated from the filter device (100) and the filter (120) is cleaned. When the filter (120) is re-mounted, the motor (136) is driven so that the blade (131) can rotate, and thus the rotation is detected by the rotation detector (183). The processor (140) determines that the filter (120) is not full of microplastics based on the detected rotation and turns off the second switch. In step S1609, as the second switch (172) is turned off, the second drain (152) is closed.

[0212] In step S1607d, when the light transmitted by the light transmitting unit (175a) of the light sensor (175) is received by the light receiving unit (175b), the processor (140) determines that the filter (120) has been removed. If the filter (120) has been removed, it means that the microplastics have been cleaned, so the processor (140) turns off the second switch (172). As the second switch (172) is turned off in step S1609, the second drain (152) is closed.

[0213] In the flow chart according to FIG. 16, at least one of steps S1601a to S1601c may be selectively used as a basis for determining whether to discharge water into the second drain (152). Similarly, at least one of steps S1607a to S1607d may be selectively used as a basis for closing the second drain (152).

[0214] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generating generator is disclosed. The washing machine may include a filter for filtering microplastics from water flowing in through an inlet. The washing machine may include blades for moving the microplastics to the ends of the filter. The washing machine may include a generator for generating power using water as the flowing water drains through a first drain. The washing machine may include a charger that is charged with voltage generated by the generator. The washing machine may include a motor that drives the blades using power from the charger.

[0215] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator may further include a voltage detector for detecting a voltage of power generated from the generator.

[0216] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator may further include a processor that detects a drainage of the washing machine based on a voltage detected by a voltage detector.

[0217] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator further includes a first switch disposed between a charger and a motor, wherein the processor turns off the first switch when a voltage is detected by a voltage detector.

[0218] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator further includes a first switch disposed between a charger and a motor, and a processor turns on the first switch after a predetermined period of time has elapsed after voltage is detected by a voltage detector and after no voltage is detected.

[0219] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator further includes a rotation detector for detecting rotation of the motor, wherein the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter exceeds a predetermined amount when the rotation detector detects that the motor is not rotating while the first switch is turned on.

[0220] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator further includes an optical sensor for detecting the amount of microplastics in a filter, wherein the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter by the optical sensor exceeds a predetermined amount.

[0221] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator further includes a current detector for detecting current flowing in the motor, wherein the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter exceeds a predetermined amount when the current detected by the current detector exceeds a predetermined current value.

[0222] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator further includes an output interface including at least one of an indicator, a display, and a speaker, wherein the processor notifies a user through the output interface that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter exceeds a predetermined amount.

[0223] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator further includes a second drain for draining water from a filter, and a second switch for opening and closing the filter and the second drain, wherein the processor turns on the second switch to open the second drain based on determining that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter exceeds a predetermined amount.

[0224] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, in a washing machine including a self-generator, the processor notifies the user through the output interface that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter exceeds a predetermined amount based on the second switch being turned on.

[0225] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, in a washing machine including a self-generator, the processor turns off the second switch based on determining that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter is less than a predetermined amount.

[0226] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, in a washing machine including a self-generator, the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter is less than a predetermined amount based on an event corresponding to removal or re-installation of the filter by physical force.

[0227] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator further includes a light sensor for detecting removal of a filter, wherein a processor detects removal of the filter by the light sensor and determines that the amount of microplastics in the filter is less than a predetermined amount.

[0228] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in a washing machine including a self-generator, the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter is less than a predetermined amount when the current detected by the current detector after the second switch is turned on is less than a predetermined current value.

[0229] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, in a washing machine including a self-generator, the generator is placed in a drainage ditch where a first drainage ditch and a second drainage ditch are combined.

[0230] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator may include a capacitor that is charged when voltage is generated from the generator. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the washing machine including a self-generator may include a processor that wakes up from a low power mode and enters a normal mode by a discharge signal generated when the capacitor is discharged due to a lack of voltage generation from the generator. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the washing machine including a self-generator may further include a first switch that controls the processor to be turned on to electrically connect a charger and a motor in the normal mode.

[0231] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a washing machine including a self-generator has a processor that turns off a first switch after a predetermined period of time and enters a low power mode.

[0232] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, in a washing machine including a self-generator, a charger includes a plurality of battery cells, and a processor performs cell balancing control for the plurality of battery cells in a normal mode.

[0233] A method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of filtering microplastics from water flowing in through an inlet through a filter. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of generating power using water and a generator when water passing through the filter is drained through a first drain. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of charging a charger with voltage generated from the generator. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of operating a motor with power from the charger. In one embodiment, the method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of moving filtered microplastics to an end portion of a filter by the operation of a blade connected to the motor.

[0234] A computer-readable medium comprising a coded program for a method of filtering microplastics according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the coded program for a method of filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of filtering microplastics from water flowing in through an inlet through a filter. In one embodiment, the coded program for a method of filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of generating power using water and a generator when water passing through the filter is drained through a first drain. In one embodiment, the coded program for a method of filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of charging a charger with voltage generated from the generator. In one embodiment, the coded program for a method of filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of operating a motor with power from the charger. In one embodiment, the coded program for a method of filtering microplastics in a washing machine may include a step of moving filtered microplastics to a terminal portion of a filter by the operation of a blade connected to the motor.

[0235] A method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of program commands that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., alone or in combination. The program commands recorded on the medium may be those specially designed and configured for the present disclosure or may be those known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer-readable recording media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specially configured to store and execute program commands, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of program commands include not only machine language codes generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc.

[0236] Some embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer, and include both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Furthermore, computer-readable media may include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically includes computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave, or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media. Furthermore, some embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented as a computer program or computer program product containing computer-executable instructions, such as a computer program that is executed by a computer.

[0237] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0238] According to one embodiment, the method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a commodity. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through an application store or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

Claims

1. A filter (120) that filters microplastics from water flowing in through an inlet (155); A blade (131) that moves the microplastics to the end of the filter; A generator (200) that generates electricity by using the water when the introduced water is drained through the first drain (151); A charger (199) charged with voltage generated from the above generator (200); and A washing machine (10) including a motor (136) that drives the blade (131) through power from the charger (199).

2. In paragraph 1, A voltage detector for detecting the voltage of the power generated from the generator, and A washing machine further comprising a processor that detects the drainage of the washing machine based on the voltage detected by the voltage detector.

3. In paragraph 2, Further comprising a first switch disposed between the charger and the motor, The washing machine, wherein the processor turns off the first switch when voltage is detected by the voltage detector.

4. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 3, Further comprising a first switch disposed between the charger and the motor, A washing machine, wherein the processor turns on the first switch after a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the voltage is detected by the voltage detector and after the voltage is no longer detected.

5. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 4, Further comprising a rotation detector for detecting rotation of the above motor, A washing machine, wherein the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter exceeds a predetermined amount when the rotation detector detects that the motor is not rotating while the first switch is on.

6. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 5, Further comprising an optical sensor for detecting the amount of microplastics in the above filter, A washing machine in which the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter by the light sensor exceeds a predetermined amount.

7. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 6, Further comprising a current detector for detecting the current flowing in the above motor, A washing machine, wherein the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter exceeds a predetermined amount when the current detected by the current detector exceeds a predetermined current value.

8. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 7, A second drain into which water from the above filter is drained; and Further comprising a second switch for opening and closing the filter and the second drain, A washing machine, wherein the processor turns on the second switch to open the second drain based on the determination that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter exceeds a predetermined amount.

9. In paragraph 8, A washing machine, wherein the processor notifies the user through the output interface that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter exceeds the predetermined amount based on the second switch being turned on.

10. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 9, The processor turns off the second switch based on determining that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter is less than the predetermined amount. A washing machine, wherein the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter is less than the predetermined amount based on an event corresponding to removal or re-installation of the filter by physical force.

11. In any one of paragraphs 2 to 10, Further comprising an optical sensor for detecting removal of the above filter, A washing machine, wherein the processor detects removal of the filter by the light sensor and determines that the amount of microplastics in the filter is less than a predetermined amount.

12. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 11, A washing machine, wherein the processor determines that the amount of microplastics accumulated in the filter is less than a predetermined amount when the current detected by the current detector is less than a predetermined current value after the second switch is turned on.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, A washing machine, wherein the generator is placed in a drainage ditch where the first drainage ditch and the second drainage ditch are combined.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, A capacitor that is charged when voltage is generated from the generator; A processor that wakes up from a low power mode and enters a normal mode by a discharge signal generated by discharging the capacitor due to no voltage being generated from the generator; and A washing machine further comprising a first switch that controls the processor to be turned on to electrically connect the charger and the motor in the normal mode.

15. A step of filtering microplastics from water flowing in through an inlet passage through a filter; A step of generating electricity using the water and a generator when water passing through the filter is drained through the first drain; A step in which the charger is charged with the voltage generated from the generator; a step of operating the motor with power from the charger; and A method for filtering microplastics in a washing machine, comprising a step of moving the filtered microplastics to the end of the filter by the operation of a blade connected to the motor.

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