Cleaning apparatus and method for controlling same

Abstract

The disclosed cleaning apparatus comprises: a cleaning tank for accommodating an object to be cleaned; a coagulation tank for storing contaminated water discharged from the cleaning tank; a coagulant supply device for supplying a coagulant to the coagulation tank; a sludge treatment tank which is connected to the coagulation tank and stores sludge; a salt solution supply device for supplying a salt solution to the sludge treatment tank; a heater for raising the internal temperature of the sludge treatment tank; and a processor for controlling the coagulant supply device, the salt solution supply device, and the heater.

Description

Washing device and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a washing device capable of washing an object accommodated in a washing tank and a control method thereof.

[0002] A washing machine can use water to clean objects placed in a washing tub. For example, a washing machine can be a washing machine for washing clothes or a dishwasher for washing dishes. A washing machine uses the driving force of a motor to agitate laundry, water, and detergent placed in a washing tub, thereby washing them through friction. A dishwasher is a device that sprays washing water at high pressure onto stored dishes, washing them, and then drying them.

[0003] Conventional washing machines perform various processes, including washing and rinsing, to clean objects. These machines use large amounts of water during these processes and discharge contaminated water after cleaning the object. Conventional washing machines can waste water resources by using large amounts of water, and can also cause water pollution by discharging contaminated water.

[0004] The disclosed invention provides a washing device capable of treating contaminated water generated by washing an object to be washed, and a method for controlling the same.

[0005] The disclosed invention provides a washing device and a control method thereof capable of removing micelles from contaminated water generated by washing an object to be washed and reusing the water.

[0006] The disclosed invention provides a cleaning device capable of recovering and recycling a coagulant for removing micelles contained in contaminated water and a control method thereof.

[0007] According to one embodiment, a washing device may include a washing tank for accommodating an object to be washed; a coagulation tank for storing contaminated water discharged from the washing tank; a coagulant supply device for supplying a coagulant to the coagulation tank; a sludge treatment tank connected to the coagulation tank and storing sludge; a brine solution supply device for supplying a brine solution to the sludge treatment tank; a heater for increasing a temperature inside the sludge treatment tank; and a processor for controlling the coagulant supply device, the brine solution supply device, and the heater. The processor may control the coagulant supply device to supply the coagulant to the coagulation tank to combine pollutants included in the contaminated water with the coagulant to produce the sludge. The processor may control the brine solution supply device to supply the brine solution to the sludge treatment tank to separate the sludge accommodated in the sludge treatment tank into the pollutants and the coagulant. The above processor can control the heater to regulate the temperature of the sludge treatment tank in order to precipitate the coagulant separated from the sludge treatment tank.

[0008] A method for controlling a washing device according to one embodiment may include: controlling a drain valve to discharge contaminated water from a washing tank to a coagulating tank; controlling a coagulant supply device to supply a coagulant to the coagulating tank to combine pollutants contained in the contaminated water with a coagulant to produce sludge; controlling a brine solution supply device to supply a brine solution to the sludge treatment tank to separate the sludge received in the sludge treatment tank into the pollutants and the coagulant; and controlling a heater to control a temperature of the sludge treatment tank to precipitate the coagulant separated in the sludge treatment tank.

[0009] The disclosed washing device and its control method can reduce water pollution by treating contaminated water generated by washing an object to be washed.

[0010] The disclosed washing device and its control method can prevent waste of water resources by removing micelles from contaminated water generated by washing an object to be washed and reusing the water.

[0011] The disclosed cleaning device and its control method can prevent waste of coagulant by recovering and recycling the coagulant for removing micelles contained in contaminated water.

[0012] Figure 1 illustrates a washing machine as an example of a washing device.

[0013] Figure 2 illustrates a dishwasher as an example of a washing device.

[0014] Figure 3 illustrates a water-saving system of a washing device according to one embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4 is a control block diagram of a washing device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 5 illustrates a process in which water and coagulant are recycled by a washing device according to one embodiment.

[0017] Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing device according to one embodiment.

[0018] Fig. 7 is a flowchart explaining in more detail the control method of the washing device described in Fig. 6.

[0019] 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.

[0020] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0024] 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).

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] Terms such as "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", and "right" are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, "upper" and "lower" may each be defined based on the Z direction shown in the drawings. "Front" and "rear" may each be defined based on the X direction shown in the drawings. "Left" and "right" may each be defined based on the Y direction shown in the drawings.

[0030] A washing device may include various devices that use water to clean objects. For example, a washing device may correspond to a washing machine for washing clothes. A washing device may also correspond to a dishwasher for washing dishes.

[0031] Figure 1 illustrates a washing machine as an example of a washing device.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, a washing machine (1) may include a main body (10). The main body (10) may form the exterior of the washing machine (1). The main body (10) may have a hexahedral shape. The main body (10) may have an inlet formed on one side for inserting a washing object. The inlet may be formed on the front side of the main body (10).

[0033] A washing machine (1) may include a door (11) configured to open and close the inlet. The door (11) may be rotatably coupled to a main body (10) to open or close the inlet. The door (11) may be rotatably coupled to the main body (10) by a hinge (12). The door (11) may be coupled to the front of the main body (10). At least a portion of the door (11) may be configured to be transparent or translucent so as to allow the interior of the main body to be visible.

[0034] The washing machine (1) may include a user interface (13) for interaction between a user and the washing machine (1). The user interface (13) may include an input interface (13a) for obtaining user input. The user interface (13) may include an output interface (13b) for outputting information regarding the operation of the washing machine (1). The input interface (13a) may include various buttons and / or dials.

[0035] The input interface (13a) 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. The output interface (13b) may include a display. The output interface (13b) may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, or the like.

[0036] The user interface (13) may be provided at various locations of the main body (10). For example, the user interface (13) may be provided on the front of the main body (10). The user interface (13) may also be provided on the upper surface of the main body (10).

[0037] A washing machine (1) may include a tub (not shown) arranged inside a main body (10). The tub may be configured to store water. A tub opening may be formed on one side of the tub. The tub opening may be arranged to correspond to the inlet. For example, the tub may be formed in a cylindrical shape with the tub opening formed on approximately one side.

[0038] The washing machine (1) may include a detergent supply device (14). The detergent supply device (14) may be located on the upper front side of the main body (10). The detergent supply device (14) may be held by a user. The user may hold the detergent supply device (14) and take the detergent supply device (14) out of the main body (10) or insert the detergent supply device (14) into the main body (10). The detergent supply device (14) may be configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device (14) may be configured to supply detergent water mixed with detergent and water to the tub.

[0039] The detergent supply device (14) may include a manual detergent supply device that requires the user to supply detergent for each wash, and an automatic detergent supply device that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically supplies a predetermined amount of detergent during the wash.

[0040] A washing machine (1) may include a drum (30). The drum (30) may be configured to accommodate a washing object therein. The drum may be placed within a tub. The drum (30) may be configured to rotate within the tub. The drum (30) may rotate during each of the washing cycle, rinsing cycle, and spin-drying cycle. The rotation speed and direction of the drum (30) may be adjusted differently for each cycle.

[0041] A drum opening may be formed on one side of the drum (30). The drum opening may be arranged to correspond to the inlet. The drum (30) may include a plurality of holes. Water stored in the tub may flow into the drum (30) through the holes, or water inside the drum (30) may be discharged into the tub through the holes.

[0042] A washing machine (1) may include a driving device configured to rotate a drum (30). The driving device may include a driving motor that generates power to rotate the drum (30) and a rotating shaft that transmits the power generated by the driving motor to the drum (30). The rotating shaft may pass through a tub and be connected to the drum (30). The driving device may rotate the drum (30) forward or backward.

[0043] The washing machine (1) may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device may include a water supply pipe connected to an external water source and a water supply valve configured to open and close the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be positioned at the upper side inside the main body (10). The water supply pipe may extend from the external water source to the detergent supply device (14), and water may be supplied from the external water source to the tub via the detergent supply device (14).

[0044] A washing machine (1) may include a drainage device configured to discharge water within a tub to the outside. The drainage device may include a drainage pipe extending from the bottom of the tub to the outside of the main body (10), a valve configured to open and close the drainage pipe, and a pump that moves water to the outside through the drainage pipe.

[0045] In the case of a front-loading washing machine, the object to be washed can be washed by repeatedly raising and lowering the object to be washed by rotating the drum (30). The front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine with a dryer capable of drying the laundry contained within 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.

[0046] The washing machine (1) is exemplified as a front-loading type, but is not limited thereto. The washing machine (1) may also be configured as a top-loading type. In the case of a top-loading washing machine, the object to be washed can be washed using a water current generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator.

[0047] The configurations of the washing machine (1) are not limited to those described above. The washing machine (1) may further include various configurations in addition to the configurations illustrated.

[0048] Figure 2 illustrates a dishwasher as an example of a washing device.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2, a dishwasher (2) may include a main body (20). The front of the main body (20) may be openable. A door (21) may be provided on one side of the main body (20). The dishwasher (2) may include a tub (22) disposed inside the main body (20). The tub (22) may form a washing chamber (23) therein. The door (21) may be rotatably mounted on the main body (20) to open and close the washing chamber (23).

[0050] Inside the main body (20), a sump unit that collects water used for washing is provided at the bottom of the tub (22), a plurality of baskets (24, 25) that are arranged so as to be withdrawable from the inside of the main body (20) to store dishes, a guide rack that supports the plurality of baskets (24, 25), and a plurality of spray nozzles that spray water delivered from the sump unit toward dishes contained in the plurality of baskets (24, 25) can be provided.

[0051] The plurality of baskets (24, 25) can store dishes of various volumes and / or sizes. The types and sizes of the dishes stored in the plurality of baskets (24, 25) are not limited. The plurality of baskets (24, 25) can include a first basket (51) and a second basket (52). The plurality of baskets (24, 25) can slide along the front-back direction of the tub (13).

[0052] The sump unit is installed at the lower center of the main body (20) and can store washing water used for washing dishes. The sump unit may include a pump that supplies the stored water to a plurality of spray nozzles. In addition, the sump unit may include a drain pump for discharging contaminated water to the outside after washing the dishes is completed.

[0053] Figure 3 illustrates a water-saving system of a washing device according to one embodiment.

[0054] The washing device (100) may correspond to the washing machine (1) of FIG. 1 or the dishwasher (2) of FIG. 2. However, the washing device (100) is not limited to washing machines and dishwashers. Various devices that wash objects using water may be included in the disclosed washing device.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 3, the washing device (100) may include a washing tank (110). The washing tank (110) may correspond to a tub of a washing machine (1) or a tub of a dishwasher (2). An object to be washed may be accommodated in the washing tank (110). In addition, water and detergent used for washing the object to be washed may be supplied to the washing tank (110).

[0056] When the washing process of the washing device (100) begins, water and detergent supplied into the washing tank (110) can wash the object to be washed. The water and detergent can remove contaminants attached to the object to be washed. As the object to be washed is washed, contaminated water containing contaminants, detergent, and water can be generated. The washing tank (110) includes an outlet for discharging the contaminated water, and a drain valve (111) can be provided at the outlet of the washing tank (110).

[0057] The washing device (100) may include a coagulation tank (120) that stores contaminated water discharged from the washing tank (110). The washing tank (110) and the coagulation tank (120) may be connected via a first flow path (P1). The first flow path (P1) may connect an outlet of the washing tank (110) and an inlet of the coagulation tank (120). When the washing process is completed, the contaminated water may be discharged from the washing tank (110) to the coagulation tank (120). When the washing process is completed, the washing device (100) may open a drain valve (111) to move the contaminated water to the coagulation tank (120) via the first flow path (P1).

[0058] The contaminated water generated by the cleaning of the object may contain contaminants in the form of micelles. Micelles can represent colloidal particles in which surfactants surround oily substances. The contaminated water may contain micelles and other anionic components of various sizes.

[0059] The washing device (100) may include a coagulant supply device (140) that stores a coagulant and supplies the coagulant to a coagulation tank (120). The coagulant may be a solid having a cationic polymer structure. The coagulant may bind to contaminants (e.g., micelles) contained in the contaminated water. The coagulant may bind to the contaminants contained in the contaminated water regardless of the acidity of the contaminated water. Sludge may be generated by the binding of the contaminants and the coagulant. The sludge may be precipitated within the coagulation tank (120).

[0060] Coagulants have the property of dissociating from contaminants in environments with relatively high salt concentrations. Furthermore, coagulants tend to clump together at temperatures above or equal to a predetermined critical temperature.

[0061] The coagulation tank (120) may include a drain for discharging water and a sludge discharge port for discharging sludge. The drain of the coagulation tank (120) may be connected to the inlet of the washing tank (110) through a second flow path (P2). Water inside the coagulation tank (120) may be supplied to the washing tank (110) through the second flow path (P2). The washing device (100) may include a drainage device (180) that opens and closes the second flow path (P2) and moves water inside the coagulation tank (120) to the washing tank (110). The drainage device (180) may include a valve and a pump. Water supplied back to the washing tank (110) from the coagulation tank (120) may be used to rinse the object to be washed. The drainage device (180) may be referred to as a second drainage device.

[0062] A first temperature sensor (121) may be provided in the coagulation tank (120). The first temperature sensor (121) may detect the temperature of the contaminated water discharged from the washing tank (110). In addition, a turbidity sensor (122) may be provided in the coagulation tank (120) to detect the turbidity of the contaminated water.

[0063] A first filter (123) may be placed in the drain of the coagulation tank (120). The first filter (123) can allow water to pass through and filter out contaminants other than water. That is, the first filter (123) can prevent sludge settled in the coagulation tank (120) from moving to the washing tank (110).

[0064] The washing device (100) may include a cooling device (150) for cooling the coagulation tank (120). When the temperature of the contaminated water contained in the coagulation tank (120) is higher than or equal to the critical temperature, the washing device (100) may operate the cooling device (150) to cool the coagulation tank (120).

[0065] The cooling device (150) may be provided in various forms. For example, the cooling device (150) may be provided as a water-cooled cooling device and / or an air-cooled cooling device. A water-cooled cooling device may cool the coagulation tank (120) using cold water. An air-cooled cooling device may include a fan and may cool the coagulation tank (120) by circulating air.

[0066] The washing device (100) may include a sludge treatment tank (130) connected to a coagulation tank (120) and storing sludge. The sludge treatment tank (130) may be connected to the coagulation tank (120) via a third flow path (P3). The third flow path (P3) may connect a sludge discharge port of the coagulation tank (120) and a sludge inlet port of the sludge treatment tank (130).

[0067] A sludge valve (124) may be provided at the sludge discharge port of the coagulation tank (120). The sludge valve (124) can open and close the sludge discharge port of the coagulation tank (120). When the sludge valve (124) is opened, the sludge in the coagulation tank (120) can move to the sludge treatment tank (130).

[0068] The washing device (100) may include a brine solution supply device (160) that stores a brine solution and supplies the brine solution to a sludge treatment tank (130). The brine solution supplied to the sludge treatment tank (130) can separate the sludge inside the sludge treatment tank (130) into contaminants and coagulants. In other words, the coagulants bound to the contaminants can be dissociated by the brine solution.

[0069] A second temperature sensor (131) and a heater (132) may be provided in the sludge treatment tank (130). The second temperature sensor (131) may detect the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130). The temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) may indicate the temperature of the mixture contained in the sludge treatment tank (130). The mixture contained in the sludge treatment tank (130) may include a salt solution, pollutants, and a coagulant.

[0070] The heater (132) can heat the sludge treatment tank (130) and / or the mixture within the sludge treatment tank (130). The temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) can change depending on the operation of the heater (132). When the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) is higher than or equal to the critical temperature, the coagulant separated from the pollutants can precipitate within the sludge treatment tank (130).

[0071] Additionally, a second filter (133) may be placed in the drain of the sludge treatment tank (130). The second filter (133) can allow the brine solution and pollutants contained in the sludge treatment tank (130) to pass through. The second filter (133) can filter the coagulant. That is, the second filter (133) can prevent the coagulant from being discharged to the outside from the sludge treatment tank (130).

[0072] The drain of the sludge treatment tank (130) may be connected to the fourth passage (P4) and may extend to the outside of the washing device (100). The brine solution and pollutants may be discharged to the outside of the washing device (100) through the fourth passage (P4). The washing device (100) may include a drainage device (170) that opens and closes the fourth passage (P4) and moves the brine solution and pollutants inside the sludge treatment tank (130) to the outside of the washing device (100). The drainage device (170) may include a valve and a pump. The drainage device (170) may be referred to as a first drainage device.

[0073] Each of the first (P1), second (P2), third (P3) and fourth (P4) euros described above can be provided as pipes or hoses.

[0074] When the brine solution and pollutants are discharged from the sludge treatment tank (130), the coagulant remains in the sludge treatment tank (130). The coagulant remaining in the sludge treatment tank (130) can be recycled. The user can remove the sludge treatment tank (130) from the cleaning device (100). The user can re-inject the coagulant remaining in the sludge treatment tank (130) into the coagulant supply device (140).

[0075] A coagulant recovery device may be provided to move the coagulant remaining in the sludge treatment tank (130) to a coagulant supply device (140).

[0076] The water-saving system of the washing device (100) can be implemented with the coagulation tank (120), sludge treatment tank (130), coagulant supply device (140), and brine solution supply device (160) illustrated in FIG. 3. Since water and coagulant can be reused by the water-saving system of the washing device (100), waste of water and coagulant can be prevented.

[0077] Figure 4 is a control block diagram of a washing device according to one embodiment.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 4, the washing device (100) may include a control unit (200). The control unit (200) may be composed of a plurality of control circuits or may be composed of a single integrated control circuit. The control unit (200) may include a processor (210) and a memory (220).

[0079] The processor (210) may include at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), a MIC (Many Integrated Core), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a hardware accelerator, and a machine learning accelerator.

[0080] The memory (220) can store various programs, software, instructions, and / or data required for the operation of the washing device (100). Depending on the purpose of data storage, the memory (220) may be implemented in the form of memory embedded in the washing device (100) or may be implemented in the form of memory that can be attached or detached to the washing device (100).

[0081] The memory embedded in the washing device (100) may include at least one of volatile memory and non-volatile memory. For example, the volatile memory may include dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), and / or synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM). The non-volatile memory may include one-time programmable ROM (OTPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory, a hard drive, and / or a solid state drive.

[0082] Memory that can be inserted into the washing device (100) may include memory cards such as CF (compact flash), SD (secure digital), Micro-SD (micro secure digital), Mini-SD (mini secure digital), xD (extreme digital), and MMC (multi-media card). In addition, a USB memory device that can be connected to a USB port may also be inserted into the washing device (100).

[0083] The processor (210) and memory (220) may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. Furthermore, multiple processors and multiple memories may be provided. The processor (210) may process various data and signals using instructions, data, programs, and / or software stored in the memory (220). The processor (210) may include one core or multiple cores. The processor (210) may generate control signals for controlling components of the cleaning device (100).

[0084] The processor (210) can be electrically connected to various components and / or devices of the washing device (100) and can control various components and / or devices. For example, the processor (210) can control a drain valve (111), a first temperature sensor (121), a second temperature sensor (131), a turbidity sensor (122), a sludge valve (124), a heater (132), a coagulant supply device (140), a cooling device (150), a brine solution supply device (160), a first drain device (170), and a second drain device (180).

[0085] A drain valve (111) may be provided at the outlet of the washing tank (110). The drain valve (111) may open or close the outlet of the washing tank (110). The processor (210) may open the drain valve (111) to discharge contaminated water in the washing tank (110) to the coagulation tank (120). Various types of valves may be used as the drain valve (111). For example, the drain valve (111) may include a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0086] The first temperature sensor (121) can detect the temperature of the contaminated water contained in the coagulation tank (120). The first temperature sensor (121) can be placed inside the coagulation tank (120). The first temperature sensor (121) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of the contaminated water to the processor (210).

[0087] The turbidity sensor (122) can detect the turbidity of the contaminated water contained in the coagulation tank (120). The turbidity sensor (122) can be placed inside the coagulation tank (120). Turbidity is an indicator that quantitatively represents the degree of cloudiness of water and represents the resistance to the passage of light. Various types of sensors can be used as the turbidity sensor (122). For example, the turbidity sensor (122) can emit pulsed light and detect light scattered from particles contained in water. The turbidity sensor (122) can output the turbidity of the water corresponding to the intensity of the detected scattered light and / or the amount of the scattered light. The turbidity sensor (122) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the turbidity of the contaminated water to the processor (210). The processor (210) can also determine the turbidity of the contaminated water based on the electrical signal transmitted from the turbidity sensor (122).

[0088] A sludge valve (124) may be provided at the sludge discharge port of the coagulation tank (120). The sludge valve (124) may open or close the sludge discharge port of the coagulation tank (120). Various types of valves may be used as the sludge valve (124). For example, the sludge valve (124) may include a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0089] The processor (210) can open the sludge valve (124) to discharge the sludge settled in the coagulation tank (120) to the sludge treatment tank (130). After the movement of water from the coagulation tank (120) to the washing tank (110) is completed, the processor (210) can open the sludge valve (124) to allow the sludge to move from the coagulation tank (120) to the sludge treatment tank (130).

[0090] The second temperature sensor (131) can detect the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130). The second temperature sensor (131) can be placed inside the sludge treatment tank (130). The second temperature sensor (131) can transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) to the processor (210). The temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) can indicate the temperature of the mixture contained in the sludge treatment tank (130). The mixture contained in the sludge treatment tank (130) can include a salt solution, pollutants, and a coagulant.

[0091] The heater (132) can heat the sludge treatment tank (130) and / or the mixture within the sludge treatment tank (130). The processor (210) can control the operation of the heater (132) based on the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) detected by the second temperature sensor (131). The processor (210) can adjust the heating intensity of the heater (132). The temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) can increase depending on the operation of the heater (132). The processor (210) can control the heater (132) to increase the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) to a critical temperature or higher. When the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) is higher than or equal to the critical temperature, a coagulant separated from pollutants can precipitate within the sludge treatment tank (130).

[0092] The coagulant supply device (140) can store coagulants and supply the coagulants to the coagulation tank (120). The processor (210) can control the coagulant supply device (140) to supply the coagulants to the coagulation tank (120) based on the amount of contaminated water contained in the coagulation tank (120). The coagulant may be a solid having a cationic polymer structure. The coagulant may bind to contaminants (e.g., micelles) contained in the contaminated water. Sludge may be generated by the binding of the contaminants and the coagulant. Therefore, the contaminated water may be separated into water and sludge.

[0093] The cooling device (150) can cool the coagulation tank (120). The processor (210) can control the operation of the cooling device (150) based on the temperature of the contaminated water detected by the first temperature sensor (121). The processor (210) can operate the cooling device (150) to cool the coagulation tank (120) based on the temperature of the contaminated water received in the coagulation tank (120) being higher than or equal to a critical temperature. Coagulants have a characteristic of clumping together in a temperature environment higher than or equal to a predetermined critical temperature. When the temperature of the contaminated water is higher than the critical temperature, the coagulants can clump together. If the coagulants clump together, the coagulants and micelles cannot be combined, so it is necessary to lower the temperature of the contaminated water below the critical temperature to prevent the coagulation of the coagulants.

[0094] The brine solution supply device (160) can store the brine solution and supply the brine solution to the sludge treatment tank (130). When sludge is introduced into the sludge treatment tank (130), the processor (210) can control the brine solution supply device (160) to supply the brine solution to the sludge treatment tank (130). The coagulant has the property of dissociating from pollutants in a relatively high salt concentration environment. Sludge mixed with the brine solution can be separated into pollutants and the coagulant.

[0095] The first drainage device (170) can discharge the brine solution and pollutants inside the sludge treatment tank (130) to the outside of the cleaning device (100). The first drainage device (170) can include a valve that opens or closes a fourth passage (P4) connected to the drain outlet of the sludge treatment tank (130). In addition, the first drainage device (170) can include a pump that moves the brine solution and pollutants inside the sludge treatment tank (130) to the outside through the fourth passage (P4).

[0096] The processor (210) can control the first drainage device (170) to discharge the brine solution and pollutants to the outside of the washing device (100) based on the elapsed settling time of the coagulant after the temperature of the sludge treatment tank reaches the critical temperature. The settling time of the coagulant can be determined in various ways depending on the design. For example, the settling time of the coagulant can vary depending on the amount of coagulant supplied to the coagulant tank (120) by the coagulant supply device (140).

[0097] The second drainage device (180) can move water inside the coagulation tank (120) to the washing tank (110). The second drainage device (180) can include a valve that opens or closes a second flow path (P2) connected to the drain of the coagulation tank (120). In addition, the second drainage device (180) can include a pump that moves water inside the coagulation tank (120) to the washing tank (110) through the second flow path (P2).

[0098] The second drainage device (180) may include a pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the liquid passing through the second flow path (P2). As the water in the coagulating tank (120) moves to the washing tank (110), the pressure of the liquid passing through the second flow path (P2) may decrease. The processor (210) may determine that the movement of water from the coagulating tank (120) to the washing tank (110) is complete based on the fact that the pressure of the liquid passing through the second flow path (P2) is lower than the threshold pressure.

[0099] The processor (210) may operate the second drainage device (180) to move water stored in the coagulation tank (120) to the washing tank (110) based on the fact that the turbidity of the contaminated water detected by the turbidity sensor (122) after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank (120) is lower than a predetermined threshold turbidity. The fact that the turbidity of the contaminated water is lower than the threshold turbidity may indicate that the contaminated water is separated into water and sludge by the precipitation of sludge within the coagulation tank (120).

[0100] In addition, the processor (210) may operate the second drainage device (180) to move water stored in the coagulation tank (120) to the washing tank (110) based on the elapsed time of a predetermined coagulation after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank (120). The coagulation time required for the pollutants and coagulant to combine to produce sludge may be determined in various ways depending on the design. For example, the coagulation time may vary depending on the amount of polluted water and the amount of coagulant supplied to the coagulation tank (120).

[0101] Water supplied back to the washing tank (110) from the coagulation tank (120) may be referred to as reused water. The reused water may be used to rinse the object to be washed in the washing tank (110). If the turbidity of the contaminated water falls below a predetermined threshold turbidity after the coagulant is supplied and / or if a predetermined coagulation time elapses after the coagulant is supplied, the processor (210) may determine that the discharge conditions for reused water are satisfied.

[0102] The configuration of the washing device (100) is not limited to those described above. The washing device (100) may further include other configurations in addition to the aforementioned configurations. Some of the aforementioned configurations may be omitted from the washing device (100).

[0103] For example, the washing device (100) may further include a user interface that obtains various user inputs and outputs various information regarding the operation of the washing device (100). The processor (210) may control the user interface.

[0104] Additionally, the washing device (100) may further include a communication interface for performing wired communication and / or wireless communication with an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or other home appliance).

[0105] The communication interface may include various communication circuits. The communication interface may include at least one of a short-range communication circuit and a long-range communication circuit. The communication interface may transmit data to an external device or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication interface may support cellular communication, a wireless local area network (WLAN), a home radio frequency (RF), infrared communication, ultra-wide band (UWB) communication, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, AD-HOC, and / or Zigbee. The communication technologies supported by the communication interface are not limited to those exemplified.

[0106] The communication interface can also communicate with external devices via an access point (AP). The access point can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the washing device (100) is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing device (100) can be connected to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0107] Figure 5 illustrates a process in which water and coagulant are recycled by a washing device according to one embodiment.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 5, at step 510, after the washing process of the washing device (100) is completed, contaminated water may be received in the coagulation tank (120). The contaminated water may contain contaminants such as micelles (M). In addition, a coagulant (C) may be supplied to the coagulation tank (120) from a coagulant supply device (140).

[0109] A micelle (M) is a colloidal particle in which a surfactant surrounds an oil component. The ionic binding sites of the micelle are negatively charged and face outward. The hydrocarbon chains of the micelle (M) face inward.

[0110] In step 520, micelles (M) and coagulants (C) combine to produce sludge (S), which can be precipitated. The coagulant is a solid having a cationic polymer structure, and can bind to the ionic bonding sites of micelles. After a certain period of time has passed since the coagulant was introduced into the coagulation tank (120), the contaminated water can be separated into water and sludge.

[0111] At step 530, as a brine solution is introduced into the sludge treatment tank (130), the sludge can be separated into micelles (M) and a coagulant (C). The coagulant has the characteristic of separating from micelles (M) in a relatively high salt concentration environment.

[0112] At step 540, if the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) increases above the critical temperature, the coagulant may precipitate. Coagulants have the property of clumping together in a temperature environment higher than or equal to the critical temperature. After the coagulant precipitates in the sludge treatment tank (130), the brine solution and micelles (M) may be discharged to the outside of the cleaning device (100). The coagulant remaining in the sludge treatment tank (130) may be recycled.

[0113] Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing device according to one embodiment.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 6, the disclosed washing device (100) can discharge contaminated water from a washing tank (110) to a coagulation tank (120) (601). Discharging the contaminated water can be performed after the washing process is completed. The processor (210) can open the drain valve (111) to discharge the contaminated water from the washing tank (110). The contaminated water may include contaminants in the form of micelles.

[0115] The washing device (100) can control the coagulant supply device (140) to supply a coagulant to the coagulation tank (120). The washing device (100) can combine the coagulant with the pollutants in the polluted water in the coagulation tank (120) to produce sludge (602). The coagulant can combine with the pollutants (e.g., micelles) contained in the polluted water. The coagulant can combine with the pollutants contained in the polluted water regardless of the acidity of the polluted water. Sludge can be produced by the combination of the pollutants and the coagulant.

[0116] Sludge can be settled in the coagulation tank (120). The processor (210) of the washing device (100) can open the sludge valve (124) to move the sludge in the coagulation tank (120) to the sludge treatment tank (130).

[0117] The washing device (100) can separate sludge into contaminants and coagulants by supplying a brine solution to the sludge treatment tank (130) (603). The processor (210) can control the brine solution supply device (160) to supply the brine solution to the sludge treatment tank (130).

[0118] In addition, the washing device (100) can adjust the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) to precipitate the coagulant (604). The processor (210) can control the heater (132) within the sludge treatment tank (130) to increase the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) above a critical temperature. When the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) exceeds the critical temperature, the coagulants clump together and precipitate.

[0119] Fig. 7 is a flowchart explaining in more detail the control method of the washing device described in Fig. 6.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 7, the disclosed washing device (100) can discharge contaminated water from a washing tank (110) to a coagulation tank (120) (701). Discharging of the contaminated water can be performed after the washing process is completed. The processor (210) can open the drain valve (111) to discharge the contaminated water from the washing tank (110).

[0121] The processor (210) of the washing device (100) can identify whether the temperature of the contaminated water detected by the first temperature sensor (121) is higher than or equal to the critical temperature (702). The washing device (100) can cool the coagulation tank (120) based on whether the temperature of the contaminated water received in the coagulation tank (120) is higher than or equal to the critical temperature (703). The processor (210) can operate the cooling device (150) to cool the coagulation tank (120).

[0122] When the temperature of the contaminated water is lower than the critical temperature, the processor (210) can control the coagulant supply device (140) to supply coagulant to the coagulation tank (120). The washing device (100) can combine the contaminants of the contaminated water and the coagulant in the coagulation tank (120) to produce sludge (704).

[0123] The processor (210) can identify whether the discharge conditions for reused water are satisfied (705). The processor (210) can determine that the discharge conditions for reused water are satisfied when the turbidity of the contaminated water is lowered below a predetermined threshold turbidity after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank (120) and / or when a predetermined coagulation time has elapsed after the coagulant is supplied.

[0124] When the discharge conditions of the reused water are satisfied, the washing device (100) can move the water stored in the coagulation tank (120) to the washing tank (110) (706). The processor (210) can operate the second drainage device (180) to move the water stored in the coagulation tank (120) to the washing tank (110). The water supplied back to the washing tank (110) from the coagulation tank (120) can be referred to as reused water. The reused water can be used to rinse the object to be washed in the washing tank (110).

[0125] The processor (210) of the washing device (100) can control the coagulant supply device (140) to supply coagulant to the coagulation tank (120). The washing device (100) can combine the coagulant with the pollutants of the contaminated water in the coagulation tank (120) to produce sludge. The washing device (100) can supply the sludge settled in the coagulation tank (120) to the sludge treatment tank (130) (707). The processor (210) can open the sludge valve (124) to move the sludge in the coagulation tank (120) to the sludge treatment tank (130).

[0126] The washing device (100) can separate sludge into contaminants and coagulants by supplying a brine solution to the sludge treatment tank (130) (708). In addition, the washing device (100) can increase the temperature of the sludge treatment tank (130) above a critical temperature to precipitate the coagulant in the sludge treatment tank (130) (709).

[0127] The washing device (100) can discharge the brine solution and pollutants contained in the sludge treatment tank (130) to the outside (710). The processor (210) can control the first drainage device (170) to discharge the brine solution and pollutants to the outside of the washing device (100) based on the passage of the sedimentation time of the coagulant after the temperature of the sludge treatment tank reaches a critical temperature. When the brine solution and pollutants are discharged from the sludge treatment tank (130), the coagulant remaining in the sludge treatment tank (130) can be recycled.

[0128] According to one embodiment, a washing device may include a washing tank for accommodating an object to be washed; a coagulation tank for storing contaminated water discharged from the washing tank; a coagulant supply device for supplying a coagulant to the coagulation tank; a sludge treatment tank connected to the coagulation tank and storing sludge; a brine solution supply device for supplying a brine solution to the sludge treatment tank; a heater for increasing a temperature inside the sludge treatment tank; and a processor for controlling the coagulant supply device, the brine solution supply device, and the heater. The processor may control the coagulant supply device to supply the coagulant to the coagulation tank to combine pollutants included in the contaminated water with the coagulant to produce the sludge. The processor may control the brine solution supply device to supply the brine solution to the sludge treatment tank to separate the sludge accommodated in the sludge treatment tank into the pollutants and the coagulant. The above processor can control the heater to regulate the temperature of the sludge treatment tank in order to precipitate the coagulant separated from the sludge treatment tank.

[0129] The above processor can control the heater to increase the temperature of the sludge treatment tank above a critical temperature.

[0130] The above cleaning device may further include a drainage device for discharging the brine solution and the pollutants introduced into the sludge treatment tank to the outside of the cleaning device. The processor may control the drainage device to discharge the brine solution and the pollutants to the outside of the cleaning device based on the elapsed settling time of the coagulant after the temperature of the sludge treatment tank reaches the critical temperature.

[0131] The washing device may further include a drainage device for moving water stored in the coagulation tank to the washing tank. The processor may operate the drainage device to move water stored in the coagulation tank to the washing tank based on the elapse of a predetermined coagulation time after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank.

[0132] The washing device may further include a turbidity sensor that detects the turbidity of the contaminated water contained in the coagulation tank; and a drainage device that moves the water contained in the coagulation tank to the washing tank. The processor may operate the drainage device to move the water stored in the coagulation tank to the washing tank based on the turbidity of the contaminated water falling below a predetermined threshold turbidity after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank.

[0133] The washing device may further include a sludge valve provided at the discharge port of the coagulant supply device. The processor may open the sludge valve so that the sludge moves from the coagulant tank to the sludge treatment tank after the movement of the water from the coagulant tank to the washing tank is completed.

[0134] The washing device may further include a cooling device for cooling the coagulation tank. The processor may operate the cooling device to cool the coagulation tank based on whether the temperature of the contaminated water is higher than or equal to a critical temperature.

[0135] The above coagulant may have a cationic polymer structure.

[0136] The above washing device may further include a filter provided at the drain of the coagulation tank and preventing movement of the sludge from the coagulation tank to the washing tank.

[0137] The above cleaning device may further include a filter provided at the drain of the sludge treatment tank and preventing discharge of the coagulant from the sludge treatment tank to the outside.

[0138] A method for controlling a washing device according to one embodiment may include: controlling a drain valve to discharge contaminated water from a washing tank to a coagulating tank; controlling a coagulant supply device to supply a coagulant to the coagulating tank to combine pollutants contained in the contaminated water with a coagulant to produce sludge; controlling a brine solution supply device to supply a brine solution to the sludge treatment tank to separate the sludge received in the sludge treatment tank into the pollutants and the coagulant; and controlling a heater to control a temperature of the sludge treatment tank to precipitate the coagulant separated in the sludge treatment tank.

[0139] Controlling the temperature of the sludge treatment tank may include increasing the temperature of the sludge treatment tank to a temperature higher than a critical temperature.

[0140] The control method of the above washing device may further include controlling the drainage device to discharge the brine solution and the pollutants to the outside of the washing device based on the elapsed settling time of the coagulant after the temperature of the sludge treatment tank reaches the critical temperature.

[0141] The control method of the above washing device may further include operating a drainage device to move water stored in the coagulation tank to the washing tank based on the elapse of a predetermined coagulation time after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank.

[0142] The control method of the above washing device may further include detecting the turbidity of the contaminated water received in the coagulation tank; and operating a drainage device to move the water stored in the coagulation tank to the washing tank based on the turbidity of the contaminated water being lowered below a predetermined threshold turbidity after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank.

[0143] The control method of the above washing device may further include opening a sludge valve to move the sludge from the coagulation tank to the sludge treatment tank after the movement of the water from the coagulation tank to the washing tank is completed.

[0144] The control method of the above washing device may further include operating a cooling device to cool the coagulation tank based on the temperature of the contaminated water being higher than or equal to a critical temperature.

[0145] The disclosed washing device and its control method can reduce water pollution by treating contaminated water generated by washing an object to be washed.

[0146] The disclosed washing device and its control method can prevent waste of water resources by removing micelles from contaminated water generated by washing an object to be washed and reusing the water.

[0147] The disclosed cleaning device and its control method can prevent waste of coagulant by recovering and recycling the coagulant for removing micelles contained in contaminated water.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] Additionally, a computer-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a nontransitory storage medium. Here, the term "nontransitory 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 "nontransitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0151] The methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play 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 on a machine-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0152] 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 washing tank that accommodates the object to be washed; A coagulation tank for storing contaminated water discharged from the above washing tank; A coagulant supply device for supplying coagulant to the coagulant tank; A sludge treatment tank connected to the above coagulation tank and storing sludge; A brine solution supply device that supplies brine solution to the sludge treatment tank; A heater for increasing the temperature inside the sludge treatment tank; and A processor that controls the coagulant supply device, the brine solution supply device, and the heater; The above processor In order to combine the pollutants contained in the contaminated water with the coagulant to produce the sludge, the coagulant supply device is controlled to supply the coagulant to the coagulation tank, In order to separate the sludge received in the sludge treatment tank from the pollutants and the coagulant, the brine solution supply device is controlled to supply the brine solution to the sludge treatment tank, A washing device that controls the heater to control the temperature of the sludge treatment tank in order to precipitate the coagulant separated from the sludge treatment tank.

2. In paragraph 1, The above processor A washing device that controls the heater to increase the temperature of the sludge treatment tank above a critical temperature.

3. In paragraph 2, It further includes a drainage device for discharging the brine solution and the pollutants injected into the sludge treatment tank to the outside of the washing device; The above processor A washing device that controls the drainage device to discharge the brine solution and the pollutants to the outside of the washing device based on the elapsed settling time of the coagulant after the temperature of the sludge treatment tank reaches the critical temperature.

4. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a drainage device for moving water contained in the above coagulation tank to the above washing tank; The above processor A washing device that operates the drainage device to move water stored in the coagulation tank to the washing tank based on the elapse of a predetermined coagulation time after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank.

5. In paragraph 1, A turbidity sensor that detects the turbidity of the contaminated water contained in the coagulation tank; and Further comprising a drainage device for moving water contained in the above coagulation tank to the above washing tank; The above processor A washing device that operates the drainage device to move water stored in the coagulation tank to the washing tank based on the turbidity of the contaminated water being lowered below a predetermined threshold turbidity after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank.

6. In paragraph 4 or 5, Further comprising a sludge valve provided at the discharge port of the above coagulant supply device; The above processor A washing device that opens the sludge valve so that the sludge moves from the coagulation tank to the sludge treatment tank after the movement of the water from the coagulation tank to the washing tank is completed.

7. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a cooling device for cooling the above coagulation tank; The above processor A washing device that operates the cooling device to cool the coagulation tank based on the temperature of the contaminated water being higher than or equal to the critical temperature.

8. In paragraph 1, A cleaning device wherein the above coagulant has a cationic polymer structure.

9. In paragraph 1, A washing device further comprising a filter provided in the drain of the coagulation tank and preventing movement of the sludge from the coagulation tank to the washing tank.

10. In paragraph 1, A washing device further comprising a filter provided in the drain of the sludge treatment tank and preventing discharge of the coagulant from the sludge treatment tank to the outside.

11. Control the drain valve to discharge contaminated water from the washing tank to the coagulation tank; In order to combine the pollutants contained in the above contaminated water with a coagulant to produce sludge, the coagulant supply device is controlled to supply the coagulant to the coagulation tank; In order to separate the sludge received in the sludge treatment tank into the pollutants and the coagulant, the brine solution supply device is controlled to supply the brine solution to the sludge treatment tank; and A method for controlling a washing device, comprising: controlling a heater to control the temperature of the sludge treatment tank in order to precipitate the coagulant separated from the sludge treatment tank.

12. In paragraph 11, Controlling the temperature of the above sludge treatment tank is as follows: A method for controlling a washing device, comprising: increasing the temperature of the sludge treatment tank to a temperature higher than a critical temperature.

13. In paragraph 12, A method for controlling a washing device, further comprising: controlling a drainage device to discharge the brine solution and the pollutants to the outside of the washing device based on the elapsed settling time of the coagulant after the temperature of the sludge treatment tank reaches the critical temperature; 14. In paragraph 11, A control method of a washing device further comprising: operating a drainage device to move water stored in the coagulation tank to the washing tank based on the elapse of a predetermined coagulation time after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank.

15. In paragraph 11, Detecting the turbidity of the contaminated water contained in the coagulation tank; A control method of a washing device further comprising: operating a drainage device to move water stored in the coagulation tank to the washing tank based on the turbidity of the contaminated water being lowered below a predetermined threshold turbidity after the coagulant is supplied to the coagulation tank.

Images