Washing machine and method for controlling same

Abstract

A washing machine according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may comprise: a drum in which laundry is accommodated; a motor for rotating the drum; the current sensor for sensing the value of current corresponding to the current supplied to the motor; a memory; and at least one processor for identifying a first current value corresponding to the value of current sensed by the current sensor as the drum rotates with the laundry in a dry state, identifying a second current value corresponding to the value of current sensed by the current sensor as the drum rotates with the laundry in a wet state, determining a moisture content of the laundry on the basis of the amount of moisture and the weight of the laundry, and identifying the material of the laundry by inputting the first current value, the second current value and the moisture content of the laundry into an artificial intelligence model.

Description

Washing machine and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a washing machine capable of detecting the quality of laundry and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] Typically, a washing machine includes a tub and a drum rotatably installed within the tub, and can wash laundry by rotating the drum containing laundry within the tub. The washing machine can perform a washing cycle for washing laundry, a rinsing cycle for rinsing washed laundry, and a spin-drying cycle for dehydrating laundry.

[0003] In order to wash laundry efficiently without damage, it is necessary to accurately identify the material of the laundry and perform appropriate washing operations according to each material.

[0004] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides a washing machine and a control method thereof capable of identifying the quality of laundry more diversely and accurately.

[0005] In addition, a washing machine and a control method thereof are provided to perform an efficient washing process by changing the washing settings according to the quality of laundry.

[0006] In addition, a washing machine and a control method thereof are provided that can calculate the moisture content of laundry using only a flow sensor and a water level sensor without a separate sensor.

[0007] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0008] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, a washing machine may include a drum for accommodating laundry; a motor for rotating the drum; a current sensor for detecting a current value corresponding to a current supplied to the motor; a memory; and at least one processor for identifying a first current value corresponding to the current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a dry state of the laundry, identifying a second current value corresponding to the current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a wet state of the laundry, determining a moisture content of the laundry based on a moisture content and a weight of the laundry, and inputting the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry into an artificial intelligence model to identify a quality of the laundry.

[0009] A control method of a washing machine according to one aspect of the disclosed invention comprises: a drum for accommodating laundry; a motor for rotating the drum; and a current sensor for detecting a current value corresponding to a current supplied to the motor; wherein the control method of the washing machine comprises: identifying a first current value corresponding to a current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a dry state of the laundry; identifying a second current value corresponding to a current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a wet state of the laundry; determining a moisture content of the laundry based on a moisture content and a weight of the laundry; and inputting the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry into an artificial intelligence model to identify a quality of the laundry.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing an example of the appearance of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 illustrates a cross-section of the washing machine illustrated in Figure 1.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a drawing showing an example of the appearance of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 4 shows a cross-section of the washing machine shown in Figure 3.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the identification of laundry quality according to multiple parameter values ​​according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the classification of laundry quality by input element using a learned model of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the classification of laundry quality when the average dry current value, the average wet current value, the wet current distribution value, and the moisture content are input into a learned model of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a process for calculating the moisture content of laundry according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the correlation between flow rate and water level according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing operations after identifying the quality of laundry according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an interface displaying a change in washing settings based on laundry quality identification according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0024] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0025] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0026] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0027] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0028] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0029] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0030] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0031] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0032] When we say that a component is “on” another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0033] Washing machines according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. A washing machine is an example of a clothing treatment device, and the term "clothing treatment device" encompasses devices that wash clothing (laundry items, drying items), devices that dry clothing, and devices that can perform both washing and drying of clothing.

[0034] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include top-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet for loading or removing laundry is provided facing upward, or front-loading washing machines in which the laundry inlet is provided facing forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines of other loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0035] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. The front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine with a dryer that can dry the laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine with a dryer may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. For example, the washing machine with a dryer may include a heat pump device. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine with a washing method other than the washing method described above.

[0036] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components therein. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry inlet formed on one side.

[0037] A washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry compartment. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow the interior of the housing to be viewed.

[0038] A washing machine may include a tub provided within a housing to store water. The tub may be provided in a generally cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned within the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet.

[0039] The tub may be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated when the drum rotates, thereby reducing the vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0040] A washing machine may include a drum configured to accommodate laundry.

[0041] The drum may be positioned within the tub such that the drum opening provided on one side corresponds to the laundry inlet and the tub opening. Laundry may be sequentially passed through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening to be accommodated within the drum or taken out from the drum.

[0042] The drum rotates within the tub and can perform each of the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration operations. The cylindrical wall of the drum is formed with a number of perforations, allowing water stored in the tub to flow into or out of the drum.

[0043] A washing machine may include a drive device configured to rotate a drum. The drive device may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may be connected to the drum by penetrating the tub.

[0044] The driving device can rotate the drum forward or backward to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying cycle.

[0045] A washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to a tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided on the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub via the detergent supply device. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0046] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the control unit. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water to the tub from an external water source. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0047] A washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to a tub. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device that requires a user to add detergent for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically supplies a predetermined amount of detergent during a wash cycle. The detergent supply device may include a detergent compartment for storing detergent. The detergent supply device may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during a water supply process. Water supplied through a water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device. The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub. Detergent is used as a comprehensive term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent compartment may be divided into a pre-wash detergent storage area, a main wash detergent storage area, a fabric softener storage area, and a bleach storage area.

[0048] A washing machine may include a drainage device configured to discharge water contained in a tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water in the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0049] The washing machine may include a control panel positioned on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for a user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0050] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0051] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0052] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0053] For example, at least one output interface may transmit information related to the washing cycle and operating time of the washing machine, as well as washing / rinsing / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine may be output via a screen, indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0054] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with external devices via wires and / or wirelessly.

[0055] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0056] The communication module can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance). For example, the communication module can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various data.

[0057] To this end, the communication module 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 module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Any of these communication modules may communicate with the external device via a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0058] The short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication module, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an UWB (ultrawideband) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc.

[0059] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0060] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices such as a server, a user device, and other home appliances through a peripheral access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or the user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or the user device can be connected to the server through the wide area network (WAN). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine, such as a drive motor and a water inlet valve. The control unit can control various components of the washing machine 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 can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum, or control the water inlet valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0061] The control unit may include hardware such as a CPU or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine, at least one memory storing program-type data, and at least one processor performing the aforementioned operation using data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Additionally, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0062] Below, washing machines according to various embodiments are specifically described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0063] A washing machine (1) according to one embodiment may be a top loading washing machine (1a; see FIGS. 1 and 2) or a front loading washing machine (1b; see FIGS. 3 and 4).

[0064] Fig. 1 illustrates an example of the exterior appearance of a washing machine according to one embodiment. Fig. 2 illustrates a cross-section of the washing machine illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a washing machine (1a) may include a housing (11a) that accommodates various components therein. The housing (11a) may form the exterior of the washing machine (1a). The housing (11a) may have a box shape with one portion open.

[0066] The housing (11a) may include a housing opening (12a) formed to allow access to the interior of the drum (30a). The housing opening (12a) may be opened approximately upwards.

[0067] The washing machine (1a) may include a door (13a) for opening and closing a housing opening (12a) provided in the housing (11a). The door (13a) may be rotatably mounted to the housing (11a) by a hinge. At least a portion of the door (13a) may be provided to be transparent or translucent so as to allow the interior of the housing (11a) to be visible.

[0068] The washing machine (1a) may include a tub (20a) provided inside the housing (11a) to store water. The tub (20a) may be arranged inside the housing (11a). The tub (20a) may include a tub opening (22a) provided to correspond to the housing opening (12a). The tub opening (22a) may be opened approximately upward. The tub (20a) may be supported inside the housing (11a). The tub (20a) may have an approximately cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0069] The tub (20a) can be elastically supported from the housing (11a) by a damper (80a). The damper (80a) can connect the housing (11a) and the tub (20a). The damper (80a) can be provided to absorb vibration energy between the tub (20a) and the housing (11a) to attenuate the vibration when the vibration generated when the drum (30a) rotates is transmitted to the tub (20a) and / or the housing (11a).

[0070] A washing machine (1a) may include a drum (30a) configured to accommodate laundry. The drum (30a) may be rotatably provided within a tub (20a). The drum (30a) may perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration while rotating within the tub (20a). The drum (30a) may include a hole (34a) connecting the internal space of the drum (30a) and the internal space of the tub (20a). The drum (30a) may have a generally cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0071] A balancing unit (36a) may be installed on the upper portion of the drum (30a) to resolve the load imbalance caused by laundry. The balancing unit (36a) includes a balancer housing having an annular channel, and a ball or a fluid mass provided movably within the channel, and the ball or fluid moves in accordance with the rotation of the drum (30a) to resolve the load imbalance of the drum (30a). The ball provided within the balancer housing may be defined as a ball balancer, and the fluid provided within the balancer housing may be defined as a fluid balancer.

[0072] The balancer housing can be mounted on a drum (30a), and at least one ball balancer or a fluid balancer can be provided inside it.

[0073] A pulsator (37a) is rotatably installed at the bottom of the drum (30a) to generate a washing water stream. Laundry can be washed by the washing water stream generated by the pulsator (37a).

[0074] The drum (30a) may include a drum opening (32a) provided to correspond to the housing opening (12a) and the tub opening (22a). Laundry may be fed into the drum (30a) or taken out from the drum (30a) through the housing opening (12a), the tub opening (22a), and the drum opening (32a).

[0075] A washing machine (1a) may include a washing machine drive device (40a) configured to rotate a drum (30a) and a pulsator (37a). The washing machine drive device (40a) may include a motor (41a) and a shaft system for transmitting driving force generated by the motor (41a) to the drum (30a) and the pulsator (37a).

[0076] The motor (41a) may include a fixed stator (48a) and a rotor (49a) that rotates by electromagnetic interaction with the stator (48a).

[0077] The shaft system may include a dehydration shaft (47a) provided to transmit the driving force of the motor (41a) to the drum (30a), a washing shaft (46a) provided to transmit the driving force of the motor (41a) to the pulsator (37a), and a clutch device (45a) for connecting or disconnecting the motor (41a) and the dehydration shaft (47a).

[0078] The dehydration shaft (47a) is formed to have a hollow space, and the washing shaft (46a) can be provided in the hollow space of the dehydration shaft (47a). The washing shaft (46a) is maintained in a state connected to the rotor (49a) of the motor (41a), and the dehydration shaft (47a) can be connected to or disconnected from the rotor (49a) of the motor (41a) by a clutch device (45a).

[0079] When the clutch device (45a) disconnects the dehydration shaft (47a) and the motor (41a), power is transmitted only to the washing shaft (46a), so that only the pulsator (37a) rotates. When the clutch device (45a) connects the dehydration shaft (47a) and the motor (41a), power is transmitted to both the dehydration shaft (47a) and the washing shaft (46a), so that the drum (30a) and the pulsator (37a) can rotate simultaneously.

[0080] When only the pulsator (37a) rotates, a washing water flow is generated by the rotation of the pulsator (37a), and the laundry rotates by the generated washing water flow, causing friction with the drum (30a), so that the laundry can be washed. When the pulsator (37a) and the drum (30a) rotate simultaneously, the laundry inside the drum (30a) rotates, causing the moisture in the laundry to be removed by centrifugal force, so that the laundry can be dehydrated.

[0081] The washing machine (1a) may include a water supply device (50a). The water supply device (50a) may supply water to the tub (20a). The water supply device (50a) may be located above the tub (20a). The water supply device (50a) may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve provided in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device (60a) and / or the tub (20a). Water may be supplied to the tub (20a) via the detergent supply device (60a). Water may be supplied to the tub (20a) without passing through the detergent supply device (60a).

[0082] The water supply valve can open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal. The water supply valve can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (20a). The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0083] The washing machine (1a) may include a detergent supply device (60a) configured to supply detergent to the tub (20a). The detergent supply device (60a) may be configured to supply detergent into the tub (20a) during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device (60a). The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub (20a). The detergent may include not only laundry detergent but also a rinse agent for a dryer, a deodorant, a sterilizer, or an air freshener.

[0084] The washing machine (1a) may include a drainage device (70a). The drainage device (70a) may be configured to discharge water stored in the tub (20a) to the outside. A drainage port (21a) may be formed at the bottom of the tub (20a) to drain water stored in the tub (20a) to the outside of the tub (20a). A drainage hose (74a) may be connected to the drainage port (21a), and a drainage valve (72a) for opening and closing the drainage hose (74a) may be provided on the drainage hose (74a).

[0085] The washing machine (1a) can provide a user interface (15a) for interaction between the user and the washing machine (1a).

[0086] The washing machine (1a) may include at least one user interface (15a). The user interface (15a) may include at least one input interface (16a) and at least one output interface (17a).

[0087] At least one input interface (16a) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0088] At least one input interface (16a) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface (16a) 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.

[0089] At least one output interface (17a) can transmit various information related to the operation of the washing machine (1a) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0090] For example, at least one output interface (17a) can transmit information related to the washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (1a), washing settings / rinsing settings / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine (1a) can be output through a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface (17a) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0091] Fig. 3 illustrates an example of the exterior appearance of a washing machine according to one embodiment. Fig. 4 illustrates a cross-section of the washing machine illustrated in Fig. 3.

[0092] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the washing machine (1b) may include a washing machine housing (11b) that accommodates various components therein. The washing machine housing (11b) may form the exterior of the washing machine (1b). The washing machine housing (11b) may have a box shape with one portion open.

[0093] The washing machine housing (11b) may include a housing opening (12b) formed to allow access to the interior of the drum (30b). The housing opening (12b) may be opened approximately forward.

[0094] The washing machine (1b) may include a door (13b) for opening and closing a housing opening (12b) provided in the washing machine housing (11b). The door (13b) may be rotatably mounted to the washing machine housing (11b) by a hinge (14b). At least a portion of the door (13b) may be provided to be transparent or translucent so as to allow the interior of the washing machine housing (11b) to be visible.

[0095] The washing machine (1b) may include a tub (20b) provided inside the washing machine housing (11b) to store water. The tub (20b) may be arranged inside the washing machine housing (11b). The tub (20b) may include a tub opening (22b) provided to correspond to the housing opening (12b). The tub opening (22b) may be opened approximately forward. The tub (20b) may be supported inside the washing machine housing (11b). The tub (20b) may have an approximately cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0096] The tub (20b) can be elastically supported from the washing machine housing (11b) by a damper (80b). The damper (80b) can connect the washing machine housing (11b) and the tub (20b). The damper (80b) can be provided to absorb vibration energy between the tub (20b) and the washing machine housing (11b) to attenuate the vibration when the vibration generated when the drum (30b) rotates is transmitted to the tub (20b) and / or the washing machine housing (11b).

[0097] A washing machine (1b) may include a drum (30b) configured to accommodate laundry. The drum (30b) may be rotatably provided within a tub (20b). The drum (30b) may perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration while rotating within the tub (20b). The drum (30b) may include a hole (34b) connecting the internal space of the drum (30b) and the internal space of the tub (20b). The drum (30b) may have a generally cylindrical shape with one side open. At least one lifter (35b) may be installed on the inner circumference of the drum (30b) so that laundry may be lifted and lowered when the drum (30b) rotates.

[0098] A balancing unit (36b) may be installed on one side (e.g., the front side) of the drum (30b) to resolve the load imbalance caused by laundry. The balancing unit (36b) includes a balancer housing having an annular channel, and a ball or a fluid mass provided movably inside the channel, and the ball or fluid moves according to the rotation of the drum (30b) to resolve the load imbalance of the drum (30b). The ball provided inside the balancer housing may be defined as a ball balancer, and the fluid provided inside the balancer housing may be defined as a fluid balancer.

[0099] The balancer housing can be mounted on a drum (30b), and at least one ball balancer or a fluid balancer can be provided inside it.

[0100] The drum (30b) may include a drum opening (32b) that is provided to correspond to the housing opening (12b) and the tub opening (22b). Laundry may be fed into the drum (30b) or taken out from the drum (30b) through the housing opening (12b), the tub opening (22b), and the drum opening (32b).

[0101] The washing machine (1b) may include a washing machine drive device (40b) configured to rotate a drum (30b). The washing machine drive device (40b) may include a motor (41b) and a rotation shaft (42b) for transmitting the driving force generated by the motor (41b) to the drum (30b). The rotation shaft (42b) may pass through the tub (20b) and be connected to the drum (30b).

[0102] The washing machine (1b) can be divided into a direct drive type in which a rotating shaft (42b) is directly connected to a motor (41b) to rotate a drum (30b), and an indirect drive type in which a pulley (43b) is connected between the motor (41b) and the rotating shaft (42b) to drive a drum (30b).

[0103] The washing machine (1b) 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.

[0104] The rotary shaft (42b) may be connected at one end to the drum (30b) and at the other end to a pulley (43b) to transmit power from the motor (41b). A motor pulley (41ab) may be formed on the rotary shaft of the motor (41b). A drive belt (44b) may be provided between the motor pulley (41ab) and the pulley (43b), so that the rotary shaft (42b) may be driven by the drive belt (44b).

[0105] A bearing housing (45b) may be installed on a portion of the rear side of the tub (20b) to rotatably support a rotating shaft (42b). The bearing housing (45b) may be made of an aluminum alloy and may be inserted into a portion of the rear side of the tub (20b) when the tub (20b) is injection molded.

[0106] The washing machine driving device (40b) may be provided to rotate the drum (30b) forward or backward to perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration, or drying operations.

[0107] The washing machine (1b) may include a water supply device (50b). The water supply device (50b) may supply water to the tub (20b). The water supply device (50b) may be located above the tub (20b). The water supply device (50b) may include a water supply pipe (51b) and a water supply valve (56b) provided in the water supply pipe (51b). The water supply pipe (51b) may be connected to an external water source. The water supply pipe (51b) may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device (60b) and / or the tub (20b). Water may be supplied to the tub (20b) via the detergent supply device (60b). Water may be supplied to the tub (20b) without passing through the detergent supply device (60b).

[0108] The water supply valve (56b) can open or close the water supply pipe (51b) in response to an electrical signal. The water supply valve (56b) can allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (20b). The water supply valve (56b) may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0109] The washing machine (1b) may include a detergent supply device (60b) configured to supply detergent to the tub (20b). The detergent supply device (60b) may be configured to supply detergent into the tub (20b) during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe (51b) may be mixed with detergent via the detergent supply device (60b). The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied into the tub (20b). 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 (60b) may be connected to the tub (20b) through a connection pipe (61b).

[0110] The washing machine (1b) may include a drainage device (70b). The drainage device (70b) may be configured to discharge water contained in the tub (20b) to the outside. The drainage device (70b) may include a drainage pump (73b) for discharging water in the tub (20b) to the outside of the washing machine housing (11b), a connection hose (71b) for connecting the tub (20b) and the drainage pump (73b) so that water inside the tub (20b) can flow into the drainage pump (73b), and a drainage hose (74b) for guiding water pumped by the drainage pump (73b) to the outside of the washing machine housing (11b). The drainage device (70b) may include a drainage valve (72b) provided in the connection hose (71b) for opening and closing the connection hose (71b).

[0111] The washing machine (1b) can provide a user interface (15b) for interaction between the user and the washing machine (1b).

[0112] The washing machine (1b) may include at least one user interface (15b). The user interface (15b) may include at least one input interface (16b) and at least one output interface (17b).

[0113] At least one input interface (16b) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0114] At least one input interface (16b) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or a course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The at least one input interface (16b) 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.

[0115] At least one output interface (17b) can transmit various information related to the operation of the washing machine (1b) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0116] For example, at least one output interface (17b) can transmit information related to a washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (1b), washing settings / rinsing settings / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine (1b) can be output through a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface (17b) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) module, a speaker, etc.

[0117] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] In one embodiment, the washing machine (1) may include a user interface (15; 15a, 15b), a driving device (40; 40a, 40b), a current sensor (93), a flow sensor (94), a water level sensor (95) and / or a control unit (90). The control unit may include at least one processor (91) and a memory (92).

[0119] The user interface (15) can provide a user interface for interaction between a user and a washing machine (1).

[0120] The user interface (15) may include at least one input interface (16; 16a, 16b) and at least one output interface (17; 17a, 17b).

[0121] At least one input interface (16) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0122] At least one 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. The 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.

[0123] At least one output interface (17) can transmit various information related to the operation of the washing machine (1) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0124] For example, at least one output interface (17) can transmit information related to the washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (1), washing settings / rinsing settings / spin settings to the user. Information related to the operation of the washing machine (1) can be output through a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface (17) can include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0125] The driving device (40; 40a, 40b) may include a motor (41; 41a, 41b) that provides driving force to rotate the drum (30; 30a, 30b), and a driving circuit (200) that drives the motor (41). The motor (41) may operate based on a driving current supplied from the driving circuit (200). The driving device (40) may operate based on a control signal of the control unit (90).

[0126] The washing machine (1) may include at least one sensor that obtains information related to the operating status of the washing machine (1).

[0127] As described above, the washing machine may include a current sensor (93) that measures the driving current applied to the motor (41), a flow sensor (94) that measures the amount of water supplied to the drum (30), and a water level sensor (95) that detects the level of water contained inside the drum.

[0128] These current sensors (93), flow sensors (94) and water level sensors (95) can transmit sensor data to the control unit (90).

[0129] The control unit (90) may include a memory (92) that stores a control program and control data for controlling a user interface (15) and a driving device (40), and at least one processor (91) that generates a control signal according to the control program and control data stored in the memory (92). The memory (92) and the processor (91) may be provided integrally or separately.

[0130] The memory (92) can store the flow rate / water level correlation and the water level / water quantity correlation to be described later, and can store programs and data for controlling the user interface (15) and the driving device (40), etc.

[0131] The memory (92) may include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (D-RAP) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory (92) may include nonvolatile memory such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

[0132] In one embodiment, the memory (92) may store an artificial intelligence model. As will be described later, the artificial intelligence model may be learned to identify the quality of laundry by using at least one factor obtained by processing sensor data collected from various sensors of the washing machine (1) (e.g., a current sensor (93), a flow sensor (94), and / or a water level sensor (95)) and the moisture content of the laundry as input data.

[0133] Depending on the various embodiments, the artificial intelligence model may be stored on the server or only on the server.

[0134] The processor (91) may include various logic circuits and operation circuits, process data according to a program provided from memory (92), and generate a control signal according to the processing result.

[0135] When a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes multiple operations, the multiple operations may be performed by one processor or by multiple processors. For example, when a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed by a method according to at least one embodiment, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation may all be performed by the first processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by the first processor (e.g., a general-purpose processor) and the third operation may be performed by the second processor (e.g., an artificial intelligence-dedicated processor).

[0136] The control unit (90) may be mounted on a printed circuit board provided on the rear of the user interface (15), for example.

[0137] The control unit (90) can be electrically connected to the user interface (15), the driving device (40), the current sensor (93), the flow sensor (94) and / or the water level sensor (95).

[0138] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining identification of laundry quality according to multiple parameter values ​​according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0139] The processor (91) can receive a washing start command from the washing machine (1) (601).

[0140] In one embodiment, the washing machine (1) can provide multiple washing courses.

[0141] The user can select one of multiple washing courses through the user interface (15) and then start the selected washing course.

[0142] Laundry fabrics can be categorized into cotton, blouses, towels, fitness, outdoor, denim, and blends.

[0143] The plurality of wash courses may include at least one wash course that specifies the quality of the laundry and a wash course that does not specify the quality of the laundry.

[0144] At least one washing course that specifies the quality of laundry may include not only washing courses in which the quality of laundry is included as part of the name of the course, such as 'towel washing course', 'denim washing course', 'blended washing course', etc., but may also include all washing courses in which the quality of laundry can be specified.

[0145] Washing courses that do not specify the quality of laundry may include a standard washing course, a general course, and / or an artificial intelligence washing course.

[0146] When a washing start command is received, the processor (91) can detect the weight of laundry received in the drum (30) (603).

[0147] The processor (91) can detect the weight of the laundry by measuring the inertia by rotating the drum (30) while laundry is loaded into the drum (30). For example, the processor (91) can repeatedly turn the motor (41) on and off. The weight of the laundry inside the drum (30) can be measured based on the counter electromotive force value generated when the motor (41) is turned off. In addition, the processor (91) can rotate the drum (30) at a preset speed and measure the weight of the laundry inside the drum (30) based on the time taken for the drum (30) to reach the preset speed. In addition, the weight of the laundry can be acquired through a separate weight sensor.

[0148] The processor (91) may start detecting the quality of laundry if the weight of the laundry is less than or equal to a preset weight. If the weight of the laundry exceeds the preset weight, the processor may not start detecting the quality of laundry.

[0149] The processor (91) can perform dry agitation by rotating the drum (30) while the laundry is in a dry state (605). Dry agitation may include rotating the drum (30) so that the laundry in a dry state that is not wet with water is agitated.

[0150] The processor (91) can obtain the current value (first current value) detected by the current sensor as the drum (30) rotates in the dry state of the laundry (607).

[0151] Here, the first current value may include an average value of current values ​​detected by the current sensor (93) in the dry state of the laundry. That is, it may include an average value of current values ​​generated from the motor (41) during the stirring cycle of the drum (30) in the dry state of the laundry.

[0152] Here, the first current value can be determined according to the mathematical expression 1 below.

[0153] [Mathematical Formula 1]

[0154] First current value = I dry / Weight

[0155] Here I dry is a current value detected by the current sensor (93) in the dry state of the laundry, and Weight may be the weight of the laundry detected by the weight detection process.

[0156] The processor (91) can perform water supply after the dry agitation (609). The processor (91) can control the water supply valve (56b) to allow water to flow into the drum so that the laundry becomes wet. Afterwards, when the water contained in the drum (30) reaches the target water level (example 611), the current value in the wet state of the laundry, which will be described later, can be obtained.

[0157] Here, the target water level can be set to an appropriate water level to obtain a current value in a wet state by containing water in the laundry.

[0158] The processor (91) can perform wet agitation by rotating the drum (30) in a wet state of laundry after water supply (613). The processor (91) can obtain a current value (second current value) detected by the current sensor as the drum (30) rotates in a wet state of laundry (615).

[0159] Here, the second current value may include the average value and the variance value of the current value detected by the current sensor (93) in the wet state of the laundry. That is, it may include the average value and the variance value of the current value generated from the motor (41) during the stirring stroke of the drum (30) in the wet state of the laundry.

[0160] Here, the second current value can be determined according to the mathematical expression 2 below.

[0161] [Equation 2]

[0162] Second current value = I wet / Weight

[0163] Here I wetis a current value detected by the current sensor (93) in the wet state of the laundry, and Weight may be the weight of the laundry detected by the weight detection process.

[0164] The processor (91) can calculate the moisture content of laundry containing water (617). The moisture content is a factor indicating the amount of water contained per weight of laundry, and can be expressed as 'moisture content of laundry = moisture content of laundry / weight of laundry'. The detailed process of calculating the moisture content will be described later.

[0165] Thereafter, the processor (91) can identify the quality of the laundry by inputting the acquired first current value, second current value, and moisture content of the laundry into the artificial intelligence model (619).

[0166] Here, the artificial intelligence model may be trained to output data on the quality of laundry using the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry as input data.

[0167] In one embodiment, the artificial intelligence model may be stored in memory (92) and / or an external device (e.g., a server).

[0168] When the artificial intelligence model is stored in the memory (92), the processor (91) can identify the quality of the laundry by inputting the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry into the artificial intelligence model stored in the memory (92).

[0169] When the artificial intelligence model is stored only in the external device, the processor (91) transmits information about the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry to the external device through a communication interface, and the external device obtains information about the quality of the laundry by inputting the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry received from the washing machine (1) into the artificial intelligence model, and the external device transmits information about the quality of the laundry to the washing machine (1), and as a result, the processor (91) can identify the quality of the laundry.

[0170] That is, the operation (609) of identifying the quality of laundry by inputting the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of laundry into the artificial intelligence model by the processor (91) may include the operation of identifying the quality of laundry by inputting the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of laundry into the artificial intelligence model stored in the memory (92) by the processor (91) and / or the operation of identifying the quality of laundry by transmitting information about the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of laundry to an external device in which the artificial intelligence model is stored through a communication interface, and receiving information about the quality of laundry from the external device.

[0171] Such an artificial intelligence model can be trained based on data related to the foam identified by the artificial intelligence model based on the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry.

[0172] Referring to Figure 7, it can be seen that the quality of laundry can be identified based on each factor data value. The data values ​​shown may be exemplary values ​​representing data trends for understanding the quality.

[0173] For example, if the data values ​​identified by the artificial intelligence model have a dry cloth current average value of 3, a wet cloth current average value of 3, a wet cloth current distribution value of 2, and a moisture content value of 3, the fabric of the laundry can be identified as being 'cotton'.

[0174] In addition, if the data values ​​identified by the artificial intelligence model have a dry cloth current average value of 3, a wet cloth current average value of 5, a wet cloth current distribution value of 4, and a moisture content of 5, the quality of the laundry can be identified as 'towel'.

[0175] By including the moisture content of the laundry, which directly represents the characteristics of the fabric, as a factor for identifying the fabric quality, a wider variety of fabric types can be accurately detected. For example, detection of "denim," "outdoor," and "fitness" fabrics, which were previously difficult to accurately identify, has been improved, allowing for a wider range of fabric types to be identified.

[0176] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the classification of laundry quality by input element using a learned model of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the classification of laundry quality when the average dry current value, the average wet current value, the wet current distribution value, and the moisture content are input to the learned model of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0177] Referring to Figure 8, the laundry material is shown as cotton, delicate clothing such as blouses, towels, fitness, outdoor, and denim.

[0178] Each graph or scatter plot of the moisture content (WATER_CONTENT_RATIO), dry current average value (DRY_CURRENT), wet current average value (WET_CURRENT), and wet current variance value (WET_TUMBLE) for cotton, blouse, towel, fitness, outdoor, and denim is shown.

[0179] That is, the moisture content (WATER_CONTENT_RATIO), dry current average value (DRY_CURRENT), wet current average value (WET_CURRENT), and wet current distribution value (WET_TUMBLE) of cotton, blouse, towel, fitness, outdoor, and denim are shown.

[0180] Additionally, the relationship between dry current (DRY_CURRENT) and wet current (WET_CURRENT) of cotton, blouse, towel, fitness, outdoor, and denim, the relationship between dry current (DRY_CURRENT) and moisture content (WATER_CONTENT_RATIO), and the relationship between wet current (WET_CURRENT) and moisture content (WATER_CONTENT_RATIO) are shown.

[0181] In dry conditions, the dry current (DRY_CURRENT) of blouses and fitness is the highest compared to other fabrics.

[0182] Under wet conditions, the water content ratio of the towel is the highest compared to other materials.

[0183] Additionally, the average wet current value (WET_CURRENT) of towels is the highest compared to other fabrics such as cotton or blouses, and the wet current distribution value (WET_TUMBLE) of fitness is the highest compared to other fabrics.

[0184] It can be confirmed that the quality of laundry can be classified by inputting at least two of the water content ratio (WATER_CONTENT_RATIO), dry current average value (DRY_CURRENT), wet current average value (WET_CURRENT), and wet current variance value (WET_TUMBLE) into the learned model.

[0185] Referring to Figure 9, a scatter plot by laundry quality according to the moisture content (WATER_CONTENT_RATIO), dry current average value (DRY_CURRENT), wet current average value (WET_CURRENT), and wet current variance value (WET_TUMBLE) is shown.

[0186] By inputting all of the moisture content (WATER_CONTENT_RATIO), dry current average value (DRY_CURRENT), wet current average value (WET_CURRENT), and wet current variance value (WET_TUMBLE) into the learned model, it can be confirmed that the quality of laundry can be classified more accurately.

[0187] Below, the process of calculating the moisture content of laundry, which is one of the factors for identifying the quality of such laundry, is described.

[0188] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a process for calculating the moisture content of laundry according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the correlation between flow rate and water level according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0189] As described above, the washing machine (1) may include a flow sensor (94) that measures the amount of water supplied to the drum (30) and a water level sensor (95) that detects the water level contained inside the drum (30).

[0190] The processor (91) can calculate the moisture content of the laundry based on the detection results of the flow sensor (94) and the water level sensor (95).

[0191] Specifically, the processor (91) can determine the amount of water (first amount of water) contained in the drum (30) based on the detection result of the flow sensor (94) (801).

[0192] That is, the amount of water contained in the drum (30) can be predicted based on the flow rate detected by the flow rate sensor (94).

[0193] The processor (91) can use a flow rate / water level correlation and / or a water level / water quantity correlation to calculate the amount of water from the detected flow rate.

[0194] These flow rate / level correlations and / or level / water quantity correlations may be stored in memory (92).

[0195] As shown in Fig. 11, the water level value according to the flow rate can be stored in the memory (92) as a correlation, and the processor (91) can obtain the water level value corresponding to the flow rate using this correlation, and obtain the amount of water (first amount of water) corresponding to the obtained water level value.

[0196] That is, the amount of first water may be a predicted value of the total amount of water supplied to the drum (30).

[0197] The processor (91) can determine the amount of water (second amount of water) inside the drum (30) based on the detection result of the water level sensor (95) (803).

[0198] That is, based on the correlation equation described above, the amount of water (second amount of water) corresponding to the water level value detected by the water level sensor (95) can be obtained.

[0199] This amount of second water may be the amount of current water contained in the drum (30).

[0200] The processor (91) can calculate the difference between the amount of the first water and the amount of the second water (805).

[0201] That is, by calculating the difference between the total amount of water predicted to have been supplied to the drum (30) (first amount of water) and the amount of water currently contained in the drum (30) (second amount of water), the amount of water contained in the laundry can be determined.

[0202] That is, 'the moisture content of the laundry = the amount of the first water - the amount of the second water'.

[0203] The processor (91) can calculate the moisture content of the laundry based on this difference value (807).

[0204] As mentioned above, the moisture content can be expressed as moisture content / weight, and the moisture content of the laundry can be calculated by dividing the weight of the laundry by the determined moisture content.

[0205] In this way, the washing machine (1) of the present invention can calculate the moisture content of laundry using only the water level sensor (95) and the flow rate sensor (94) without a separate sensor.

[0206] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation after identifying the quality of laundry according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 13 is a diagram showing displaying a change in washing settings according to identifying the quality of laundry according to one embodiment of the present disclosure on an interface.

[0207] When the quality of laundry is identified (1001) according to the quality identification operation described above, the processor (91) can change the washing settings of the washing machine (1) based on the identified quality (1003).

[0208] That is, the washing machine (1) can change the washing settings from the default washing settings to washing settings corresponding to the identified laundry quality in response to the identified laundry quality.

[0209] Washing settings may include the rotation speed of the drum (30), the operation time of the washing cycle, etc. The processor (91) may control the drive device (40) to vary the rotation speed and / or operation time of the drum (30) depending on the identified laundry quality.

[0210] The processor (91) can control the user interface (15) to provide an interface for changing these washing settings (1005).

[0211] As described above, information provided through the user interface (15) may include auditory information such as voice and / or visual information such as display.

[0212] For example, as shown in FIG. 13, a phrase such as "The laundry quality is detected as 'denim', so the washing settings are changed" can be displayed to inform the user that the laundry information is changed according to the detected quality.

[0213] In one embodiment, a washing machine may include a drum for accommodating laundry; a motor for rotating the drum; a current sensor for detecting current generated by the motor; a memory; and at least one processor for identifying a quality of the laundry by inputting a first current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a dry state of the laundry, a second current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a wet state of the laundry, and a moisture content of the laundry into an artificial intelligence model.

[0214] According to the present disclosure, the quality of laundry can be identified more diversely and accurately by utilizing the moisture content of the laundry.

[0215] A flow sensor for detecting the amount of water supplied to the drum; a water level sensor for detecting the level of water inside the drum; and the at least one processor can calculate the moisture content of the laundry based on the detection results of the flow sensor and the water level sensor.

[0216] The at least one processor can determine a first amount of water inside the drum based on a detection result of the flow rate sensor, determine a second amount of water inside the drum based on a detection result of the water level sensor, and calculate a moisture content of the laundry based on a difference value between the first amount of water and the second amount of water.

[0217] The at least one processor can determine the amount of first water inside the drum based on the detection result of the flow sensor according to the flow rate / level correlation stored in the memory.

[0218] The at least one processor may change the washing settings of the washing machine based on the identified foam.

[0219] According to the present disclosure, an efficient washing process can be performed by changing the washing settings according to the quality of the laundry.

[0220] The at least one processor may perform an operation of starting a washing cycle according to a default washing setting when receiving a washing start command, and identifying a quality of the laundry in response to a predetermined time elapsed after the washing cycle is started.

[0221] The at least one processor may, in response to the laundry quality being identified, change the wash settings from the default wash settings to a wash setting corresponding to the identified laundry quality.

[0222] A user interface; further comprising at least one processor capable of controlling the user interface to provide an interface for changing washing settings of the washing machine.

[0223] The artificial intelligence model may be trained based on data related to the foam identified by the artificial intelligence model based on the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry.

[0224] The first current value may include an average value of current values ​​detected by the current sensor in a dry state of the laundry, and the second current value may include an average value and a variance value of current values ​​detected by the current sensor in a wet state of the laundry.

[0225] According to one embodiment, a control method of a washing machine includes a drum for accommodating laundry; a motor for rotating the drum; and a current sensor for detecting current generated by the motor, the control method comprising: obtaining a first current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a dry state of the laundry; obtaining a second current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a wet state of the laundry; calculating a moisture content of the laundry; and inputting the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content into an artificial intelligence model to identify a quality of the laundry.

[0226] The drum may further include a flow sensor for detecting the amount of water supplied to the drum; a water level sensor for detecting the level of water inside the drum; and calculating the moisture content of the laundry may include calculating the moisture content of the laundry based on detection results of the flow sensor and the water level sensor.

[0227] Calculating the moisture content of the laundry may include determining a first amount of water inside the drum based on a detection result of the flow sensor, determining a second amount of water inside the drum based on a detection result of the water level sensor, and calculating the moisture content of the laundry based on a difference value between the first amount of water and the second amount of water.

[0228] Determining the amount of the first water inside the drum may include determining the amount of the first water inside the drum based on a detection result of the flow rate sensor according to a flow rate / water level correlation stored in the memory.

[0229] It may further include changing the washing settings of the washing machine based on the identified foam.

[0230] Further comprising: starting a washing cycle according to a default washing setting when a washing start command is received; and identifying the quality of the laundry may include identifying the quality of the laundry in response to a predetermined time elapsed after the washing cycle is started.

[0231] The method may further include: in response to identifying the quality of the laundry, changing the washing settings from the default washing settings to washing settings corresponding to the identified quality of the laundry.

[0232] The washing machine may further include a user interface; and controlling the user interface to provide an interface for changing washing settings of the washing machine.

[0233] The artificial intelligence model may be trained based on data related to the foam identified by the artificial intelligence model based on the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry.

[0234] The first current value may include an average value of current values ​​detected by the current sensor in a dry state of the laundry, and the second current value may include an average value and a variance value of current values ​​detected by the current sensor in a wet state of the laundry.

[0235] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, the quality of laundry can be more diversely and accurately identified by utilizing the moisture content of the laundry.

[0236] Additionally, you can change the washing settings according to the quality of the laundry to perform efficient washing.

[0237] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0238] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0239] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A drum that holds laundry; A motor that rotates the drum; A current sensor that detects a current value corresponding to the current supplied to the above motor; memory; and A washing machine comprising at least one processor for identifying a first current value corresponding to a current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a dry state of the laundry, identifying a second current value corresponding to a current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in a wet state of the laundry, determining a moisture content of the laundry based on the moisture content and weight of the laundry, and inputting the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry into an artificial intelligence model to identify a quality of the laundry.

2. In paragraph 1, A flow sensor that detects the amount of water supplied to the drum; Further comprising a water level sensor for detecting the water level inside the drum; At least one processor, A washing machine that calculates the moisture content of the laundry based on the detection results of the flow rate sensor and the water level sensor.

3. In paragraph 2, At least one processor, A washing machine that determines a first amount of water inside the drum based on a detection result of the flow sensor, determines a second amount of water inside the drum based on a detection result of the water level sensor, and calculates the moisture content of the laundry based on a difference value between the first amount of water and the second amount of water.

4. In paragraph 3, At least one processor, A washing machine that determines the first amount of water inside the drum based on the detection result of the flow rate sensor according to the flow rate / water level correlation stored in the memory.

5. In paragraph 1, At least one processor, A washing machine that changes the washing settings of the washing machine based on the identified laundry quality.

6. In paragraph 5, At least one processor, A washing machine that starts a washing cycle according to default washing settings when a washing start command is received, and performs an operation of identifying the quality of the laundry in response to a predetermined time elapsed after the washing cycle is started.

7. In paragraph 6, At least one processor, A washing machine that changes the washing settings from the default washing settings to washing settings corresponding to the identified laundry quality in response to the laundry quality being identified.

8. In paragraph 5, including a user interface; At least one processor, A washing machine controlling the user interface to provide an interface for changing the washing settings of the washing machine.

9. In paragraph 1, The above artificial intelligence model, A washing machine that learns based on data related to the foam identified by the artificial intelligence model based on the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry.

10. In paragraph 1, The above first current value is, Including the average value of the current value detected by the current sensor in the dry state of the laundry, The above second current value is, A washing machine including an average value and a variance value of current values ​​detected by the current sensor in the wet state of the laundry.

11. A method for controlling a washing machine, comprising: a drum for receiving laundry; a motor for rotating the drum; and a current sensor for detecting a current value corresponding to the current supplied to the motor; Identifying a first current value corresponding to a current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in the dry state of the laundry; Identifying a second current value corresponding to the current value detected by the current sensor as the drum rotates in the wet state of the laundry; Determine the moisture content of the laundry based on the moisture content and weight of the laundry; A method for controlling a washing machine, comprising: identifying the quality of the laundry by inputting the first current value, the second current value, and the moisture content of the laundry into an artificial intelligence model.

12. In paragraph 11, A flow sensor that detects the amount of water supplied to the drum; Further comprising a water level sensor for detecting the water level inside the drum; Calculating the moisture content of the above laundry is as follows: A control method for a washing machine, comprising calculating the moisture content of the laundry based on the detection results of the flow rate sensor and the water level sensor.

13. In paragraph 12, Calculating the moisture content of the above laundry is as follows: Determine the amount of first water inside the drum based on the detection result of the above flow sensor, Determine the amount of second water inside the drum based on the detection result of the water level sensor, A control method for a washing machine, comprising calculating the moisture content of the laundry based on a difference value between the first amount of water and the second amount of water.

14. In paragraph 13, Determining the amount of first water inside the drum is as follows: A control method for a washing machine, comprising determining the amount of first water inside the drum based on the detection result of the flow rate sensor according to a flow rate / water level correlation stored in a memory.

15. In paragraph 11, A method for controlling a washing machine, further comprising changing the washing settings of the washing machine based on the identified laundry quality.

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