Washing machine and controlling method thereof

Abstract

A washing machine, according to one aspect of the disclosed invention, may comprise: a memory storing user's water usage pattern information; a communication unit communicating with a server and a user terminal to receive usage environment information; and at least one processor performing a water usage reduction mode on the basis of the user's water usage pattern information stored in the memory, and the usage environment information or water usage amount information received from the server and the user terminal.

Description

Washing machine and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a washing machine capable of reducing water usage and a method for controlling the same.

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

[0003] A large amount of water can be consumed during the process of washing and rinsing laundry. In particular, there is a growing need to reduce the amount of water used for washing and rinsing in water-scarce countries.

[0004] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides a washing machine and a control method thereof that can efficiently save water usage by automatically performing a water usage reduction mode considering the user's usage patterns or usage environment.

[0005] In addition, the present invention provides a washing machine and a control method thereof that enable a user to efficiently know the amount of water saved by displaying the amount of water saved by performing the water usage reduction mode and the number of washes possible by performing the water usage reduction mode within a limited amount of water on an application, etc.

[0006] The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below.

[0007] A washing machine according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may include: a memory for storing user's water usage pattern information; a communication unit for receiving usage environment information by communicating with a server and a user terminal; and at least one processor for performing a water usage reduction mode based on user's water usage pattern information stored in the memory, usage environment information or water usage information received from the server and the user terminal.

[0008] A control method for a washing machine according to one aspect of the disclosed invention may include storing user's water usage pattern information; receiving usage environment information from a server and a user terminal; and performing a water usage reduction mode based on the stored user's water usage pattern information, the usage environment information or water usage information received from the server and the user terminal.

[0009] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a home appliance communicating with a server and a user terminal, etc.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of the exterior of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 3 shows a cross-section of the washing machine depicted in Figure 2.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating an example of the exterior of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Fig. 5 shows a cross-section of the washing machine illustrated in Fig. 4.

[0014] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the timing of entering a water usage reduction mode based on progressive information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing progressive information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure being displayed on a user terminal.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the timing of entering a water usage reduction mode based on target water usage information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIGS. 11 and FIGS. 12 are drawings illustrating water usage information displayed on a user terminal or washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments.

[0021] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0022] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0023] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0024] The term “and / or” includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0025] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another corresponding component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0026] Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicationly," it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0027] Terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not preclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0028] When it is said that one component is “connected,” “combined,” “supported,” or “in contact” with another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, combined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, combined, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0029] When it is said that a component is located “on” another component, this includes not only cases where one component is in contact with the other, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0030] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a home appliance communicating with a server and a user terminal, etc.

[0031] The home appliance (10) may include a communication module capable of communicating with other home appliances, a user device (2) or a server (3), a user interface that receives user input or outputs information to the user, at least one processor that controls the operation of the home appliance (10), and at least one memory in which a program for controlling the operation of the home appliance (10) is stored.

[0032] The home appliance (10) may be at least one of various types of home appliances. For example, the home appliance (10) may include at least one of a refrigerator (1100), a dishwasher (1200), an electric range (1300), an electric oven (1400), an air conditioner (1500), a garment care machine (1600), a washing machine (1), a dryer (1800), and a microwave oven (1900) as illustrated, but is not limited thereto, and may include various types of home appliances such as a cleaning robot, a vacuum cleaner, and a television not illustrated in the drawings. In addition, the aforementioned home appliances are merely examples, and in addition to the aforementioned home appliances, a device capable of performing the operation described below by connecting to other home appliances, a user device (2), or a server (3) may be included in the home appliance (10) according to one embodiment.

[0033] The server (3) may include a communication module capable of communicating with another server, a home appliance (10), or a user device (2), at least one processor capable of processing data received from another server, a home appliance (10), or a user device (2), and at least one memory capable of storing a program for processing data or processed data. This server (3) may be implemented as various computing devices such as a workstation, a cloud, a data drive, or a data station. The server (3) may be implemented as one or more servers physically or logically separated based on functions, detailed configurations of functions, or data, and may transmit and receive data and process the transmitted and received data through communication between each server.

[0034] The server (3) can perform functions such as managing user accounts, registering home appliances (10) associated with user accounts, and managing or controlling the registered home appliances (10). For example, a user can create a user account by connecting to the server (3) through a user device (2). A user account can be identified by an ID and password set by the user. The server (3) can register home appliances (10) to the user account according to a set procedure. For example, the server (3) can register, manage, and control home appliances (10) by linking identification information of the home appliance (10) (e.g., serial number or MAC address, etc.) to the user account. The user device (2) may include a communication module capable of communicating with the home appliance (10) or the server (3), a user interface that receives user input or outputs information to the user, at least one processor that controls the operation of the user device (2), and at least one memory in which a program for controlling the operation of the user device (2) is stored.

[0035] The user device (2) may be carried by the user or placed in the user's home or office, etc. The user device (2) may include, but is not limited to, a personal computer, terminal, portable telephone, smartphone, handheld device, wearable device, etc.

[0036] A program, i.e., an application, for controlling the home appliance (10) can be stored in the memory of the user device (2). The application may be sold with the user device (2) already installed, or it may be downloaded and installed from an external server.

[0037] By running an application installed on the user device (2), the user can connect to the server (3) to create a user account, and communicate with the server (3) based on the logged-in user account to register the home appliance device (10).

[0038] For example, if the home appliance (10) is operated in accordance with the procedure guided by the application installed on the user device (2) so that the home appliance (10) can be connected to the server (3), the home appliance (10) can be registered to the user account by registering the identification information of the home appliance (10) (e.g., serial number or MAC address, etc.) to the user account on the server (3).

[0039] The user can control the home appliance (10) using an application installed on the user device (2). For example, when the user logs into the user account using an application installed on the user device (2), the home appliance (10) registered to the user account appears, and when the user inputs a control command for the home appliance (10), the control command can be transmitted to the home appliance (10) through the server (3).

[0040] A network may include both wired and wireless networks. Wired networks include cable networks or telephone networks, etc., and wireless networks may include all networks that transmit and receive signals via radio waves. Wired and wireless networks may be connected to each other.

[0041] Networks may include wide area networks (WANs) such as the Internet, local area networks (LANs) formed around access points (APs), and short-range wireless networks that do not use access points (APs). Short-range wireless networks may include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), Wi-Fi Direct, Near Field Communication (NFC), Z-Wave, etc.

[0042] The access point (AP) can connect a home appliance (10) or a user device (2) to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server (3) is connected. The home appliance (10) or the user device (2) can be connected to the server (3) through the wide area network (WAN).

[0043] The access point (AP) can communicate with a home appliance (10) or user device (2) using wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth (IEEE 802.15.1), or Zigbee (IEEE 802.15.4), and can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, but is not limited thereto.

[0044] According to various embodiments, the home appliance (10) may be directly connected to the user device (2) or server (3) without going through the access relay (AP).

[0045] The home appliance (10) can be connected to a user device (2) or server (3) via a long-distance wireless network or a short-distance wireless network.

[0046] For example, the home appliance (10) can be connected to the user device (2) via a short-range wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct).

[0047] As another example, the home appliance (10) can be connected to a user device (2) or server (3) via a wide area network (WAN) using a long-distance wireless network (e.g., a cellular communication module).

[0048] As another example, a home appliance (10) can be connected to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication and connected to a user device (2) or server (3) through the wide area network (WAN).

[0049] If the home appliance (10) can connect to a wide area network (WAN) using wired communication, it may operate as a connection relay. Accordingly, the home appliance (10) can connect other home appliances to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server (3) is connected. Additionally, other home appliances can connect the home appliance (10) to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server (3) is connected.

[0050] The home appliance (10) can transmit information regarding operation or status to other home appliances, user devices (2), or servers (3) via a network. For example, the home appliance (10) can transmit information regarding operation or status to other home appliances, user devices (2), or servers (3) when a request is received from the server (3), when a specific event occurs in the home appliance (10), or periodically or in real time. When the server (3) receives information regarding operation or status from the home appliance (10), it can update the stored information regarding operation or status of the home appliance (10) and transmit the updated information regarding operation and status of the home appliance (10) to the user devices (2) via a network. Here, updating information may include various operations that change existing information, such as adding new information to existing information or replacing existing information with new information.

[0051] The home appliance (10) can obtain various information from other home appliances, user devices (2), or servers (3) and provide the obtained information to the user. For example, the home appliance (10) can obtain information related to the functions of the home appliance (10) (e.g., recipes, laundry methods, etc.) and various environmental information (e.g., weather, temperature, humidity, etc.) from the server (3), and can output the obtained information through a user interface.

[0052] The home appliance (10) may operate according to control commands received from other home appliances, user devices (2), or servers (3). For example, if the home appliance (10) has obtained prior approval from a user to operate according to control commands from servers (3) even without user input, the home appliance (10) may operate according to control commands received from servers (3). Here, the control commands received from servers (3) may include, but are not limited to, control commands entered by the user through user devices (2) or control commands based on pre-set conditions.

[0053] The user device (2) can transmit information about the user to the home appliance (10) or server (3) through a communication module. For example, the user device (2) can transmit information about the user's location, health status, preferences, schedule, etc. to the server (3). The user device (2) can transmit information about the user to the server (3) upon the user's prior approval.

[0054] The home appliance (10), user device (2), or server (3) may determine control commands using technology such as artificial intelligence. For example, the server (3) may receive information regarding the operation or status of the home appliance (10) or information regarding the user of the user device (2), process it using technology such as artificial intelligence, and transmit the processing result or control command to the home appliance (10) or user device (2) based on the processing result.

[0055] A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0056] A washing machine according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying operations. A washing machine is an example of a clothing processing device, and a clothing processing device is a concept that encompasses a device for washing clothing (clothing to be washed, clothing to be dried), a device for drying clothing, and a device capable of performing both washing and drying of clothing.

[0057] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for loading or unloading laundry is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet is provided to face forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0058] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water flow 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. A front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine capable of drying laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine capable of drying may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensation device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. As an example, the washing machine capable of drying may include a heat pump device. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with washing methods other than those described above.

[0059] A washing machine according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components inside. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry input opening formed on one side.

[0060] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing a laundry input. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by means of a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be made transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing is visible.

[0061] The washing machine may include a tub provided inside the housing to store water. The tub is provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned inside the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to the laundry inlet.

[0062] The tub can be connected to the housing by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated during the rotation of the drum and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0063] The washing machine may include a drum designed to accommodate laundry.

[0064] The drum may be positioned inside the tub such that a drum opening provided on one side corresponds to a laundry inlet and a tub opening. Laundry may pass through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening in sequence to be received inside the drum or withdrawn from the drum.

[0065] The drum can rotate inside the tub and perform respective actions according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying cycles. A number of holes are formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum so that water stored in the tub can flow into the interior of the drum or out of the exterior of the drum.

[0066] The washing machine may include a drive unit configured to rotate the drum. The drive unit may include a drive motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the drive motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may pass through the tub and be connected to the drum.

[0067] The drive unit can rotate the drum in the forward or reverse direction to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, or drying cycles.

[0068] The washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device 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 dispenser and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub through the detergent dispenser. Water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent dispenser.

[0069] 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 from an external water source to the tub. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0070] The washing machine may include a detergent dispenser configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent dispenser may include a manual detergent dispenser in which the user must add the detergent to be used for each wash cycle, and an automatic detergent dispenser that stores a large amount of detergent and automatically dispenses a predetermined amount during a wash cycle. The detergent dispenser may include a detergent container for storing detergent. The detergent dispenser may be configured to supply detergent into the tub during the water supply process. Water supplied through the water supply pipe may be mixed with the detergent by passing through the detergent dispenser. The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied into the tub. The term "detergent" is used as a collective term for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent container 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.

[0071] The 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 from the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0072] The washing machine may include a control panel disposed on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for the user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0073] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0074] At least one input interface may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. 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.

[0075] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0076] For example, at least one output interface can convey information to the user regarding the washing course, the washing machine's operating time, and washing settings, rinse settings, and spin settings. Information regarding 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.

[0077] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with an external device via wired and / or wireless means.

[0078] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0079] The communication module can transmit data to external devices (e.g., servers, user devices, and / or home appliances) or receive data from external devices. For example, the communication module can establish communication with servers and / or user devices and / or home appliances and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0080] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) or 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 GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a LAN (local area network) communication module, or a power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules may communicate with an external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (e.g., a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a long-range communication network such as 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).

[0081] A short-range wireless communication module may include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth communication modules, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication modules, Near Field Communication modules, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication modules, Zigbee communication modules, infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication modules, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication modules, UWB (ultrawideband) communication modules, Ant+ communication modules, microwave (uWave) communication modules, etc.

[0082] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance 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.

[0083] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices, such as a server, a user device, or other home appliances, through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine or user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine or 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 (e.g., drive motor, water supply valve). The control unit can control various components of the washing machine to perform at least one operation, including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, according to user input. For example, the control unit can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0084] 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 for storing data in the form of a program, and at least one processor for performing the aforementioned operation using data stored in 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.

[0085] Washing machines according to various embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0086] A washing machine (1) according to one embodiment may be a top-loading washing machine (1a; see FIG. 1 and FIG. 2) or a front-loading washing machine (1b; see FIG. 3 and FIG. 4).

[0087] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of the exterior of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-section of the washing machine shown in FIG. 2.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the washing machine (1a) may include a housing (11a) that accommodates various components inside. The housing (11a) may form the exterior of the washing machine (1a). The housing (11a) may have a box shape with a part open.

[0089] 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 upward.

[0090] The washing machine (1a) may include a door (13a) for opening and closing a housing opening (12a) provided in a 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 made transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing (11a) is visible.

[0091] The washing machine (1a) may include a tub (20a) provided inside the housing (11a) to store water. The tub (20a) may be positioned 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 a roughly cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0092] 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) and attenuate vibration when vibration generated during the rotation of the drum (30a) is transmitted to the tub (20a) and / or the housing (11a).

[0093] A washing machine (1a) may include a drum (30a) provided to receive laundry. The drum (30a) may be rotatably provided inside a tub (20a). The drum (30a) may perform washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying while rotating inside the tub (20a). The drum (30a) may include a through hole (34a) connecting the internal space of the drum (30a) and the internal space of the tub (20a). The drum (30a) may have a roughly cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0094] A balancing unit (36a) may be installed on the upper part of the drum (30a) to relieve load imbalance caused by laundry. The balancing unit (36a) includes a balancer housing having an annular channel and a mass of ball or fluid movably provided inside the channel, and the ball or fluid moves according to the rotation of the drum (30a) to relieve load imbalance of the drum (30a). 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.

[0095] The balancer housing can be mounted on the drum (30a), and at least one ball balancer or fluid balancer can be provided inside it.

[0096] A pulsator (37a) is rotatably provided 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).

[0097] 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 put into the drum (30a) or taken out of the drum (30a) through the housing opening (12a), the tub opening (22a), and the drum opening (32a).

[0098] The washing machine (1a) may include a washing machine drive unit (40a) configured to rotate a drum (30a) and a pulsator (37a). The washing machine drive unit (40a) may include a motor (41a) and a shaft system for transmitting the driving force generated by the motor (41a) to the drum (30a) and the pulsator (37a).

[0099] The motor (41a) may include a fixed stator (48a) and a rotor (49a) that rotates by electromagnetically interacting with the stator (48a).

[0100] The shaft system may include a spin-drying shaft (47a) arranged to transmit the driving force of the motor (41a) to the drum (30a), a washing shaft (46a) arranged 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 spin-drying shaft (47a).

[0101] The spin-drying shaft (47a) is formed to have a hollow, and the washing shaft (46a) can be provided in the hollow of the spin-drying shaft (47a). The washing shaft (46a) is maintained in a state connected to the rotor (49a) of the motor (41a), and the spin-drying shaft (47a) can be connected to or disconnected from the rotor (49a) of the motor (41a) by a clutch device (45a).

[0102] When the clutch device (45a) disconnects the spin-drying shaft (47a) and the motor (41a), power is transmitted only to the washing shaft (46a) so that only the pulsator (37a) rotates, and when the clutch device (45a) connects the spin-drying shaft (47a) and the motor (41a), power is transmitted to both the spin-drying shaft (47a) and the washing shaft (46a) so that the drum (30a) and the pulsator (37a) can rotate simultaneously.

[0103] When only the pulsator (37a) rotates, a washing water stream is generated by the rotation of the pulsator (37a), and the laundry can be washed by rotating due to the generated washing water stream and friction with the drum (30a). When the pulsator (37a) and the drum (30a) rotate simultaneously, the laundry inside the drum (30a) rotates, and moisture is removed from the laundry by centrifugal force, thereby allowing the laundry to be dehydrated.

[0104] 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).

[0105] 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.

[0106] The washing machine (1a) may include a detergent supply device (60a) configured to supply detergent to a 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 a water supply pipe may be mixed with detergent by passing through 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 dryer rinse, deodorizer, disinfectant, or air freshener.

[0107] The washing machine (1a) may include a drainage device (70a). The drainage device (70a) may be configured to discharge water contained in the tub (20a) to the outside. A drain port (21a) may be formed at the bottom of the tub (20a) to drain the water stored in the tub (20a) to the outside of the tub (20a). A drainage hose (74a) may be connected to the drain port (21a), and a drainage valve (72a) for opening and closing the drainage hose (74a) may be provided on the drainage hose (74a).

[0108] The washing machine (1a) can provide a user interface (15a) for the user and the washing machine (1a) to interact.

[0109] 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).

[0110] At least one input interface (16a) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0111] At least one input interface (16a) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] For example, at least one output interface (17a) can transmit information to the user regarding the washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (1a), as well as washing settings / rinse settings / spin settings. Information regarding the operation of the washing machine (1a) can be output via a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface (17a) may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0114] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating an example of the exterior of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-section of the washing machine shown in FIG. 4.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the washing machine (1b) may include a washing machine housing (11b) that accommodates various components inside. 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 a part open.

[0116] 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.

[0117] 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 that the interior of the washing machine housing (11b) is visible.

[0118] The washing machine (1b) may include a tub (20b) provided inside the washing machine housing (11b) to store water. The tub (20b) may be positioned 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 open approximately forward. The tub (20b) may be supported inside the washing machine housing (11b). The tub (20b) may have a roughly cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0119] 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) and attenuate vibration when vibration generated during the rotation of the drum (30b) is transmitted to the tub (20b) and / or the washing machine housing (11b).

[0120] A washing machine (1b) may include a drum (30b) provided to accommodate laundry. The drum (30b) may be rotatably provided inside a tub (20b). The drum (30b) may perform washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying while rotating inside the tub (20b). The drum (30b) may include a through hole (34b) connecting the internal space of the drum (30b) and the internal space of the tub (20b). The drum (30b) may have a roughly cylindrical shape with one side open. At least one lifter (35b) may be installed on the inner surface of the drum (30b) so that the laundry can be raised and lowered when the drum (30b) rotates.

[0121] A balancing unit (36b) may be installed on one side (e.g., the front side) of the drum (30b) to relieve load imbalance caused by laundry. The balancing unit (36b) includes a balancer housing having an annular channel and a mass of ball or fluid movably provided inside the channel, and the ball or fluid moves according to the rotation of the drum (30b) to relieve 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.

[0122] The balancer housing can be mounted on the drum (30b), and at least one ball balancer or fluid balancer can be provided inside it.

[0123] The drum (30b) may include a drum opening (32b) provided to correspond to the housing opening (12b) and the tub opening (22b). Laundry may be put into the drum (30b) or taken out of the drum (30b) through the housing opening (12b), the tub opening (22b), and the drum opening (32b).

[0124] The washing machine (1b) may include a washing machine drive unit (40b) configured to rotate the drum (30b). The washing machine drive unit (40b) may include a motor (41b) and a rotating shaft (42b) for transmitting the driving force generated by the motor (41b) to the drum (30b). The rotating shaft (42b) may pass through the tub (20b) and be connected to the drum (30b).

[0125] The washing machine (1b) can be classified into a direct drive type in which a rotating shaft (42b) is directly connected to a motor (41b) to rotate the 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 the drum (30b).

[0126] A 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.

[0127] One end of the rotating shaft (42b) may be connected to the drum (30b), and the other end may be connected to the pulley (43b) to receive power from the motor (41b). A motor pulley (41ab) may be formed on the rotating shaft of the motor (41b). A drive belt (44b) is provided between the motor pulley (41ab) and the pulley (43b), so that the rotating shaft (42b) can be driven by the drive belt (44b).

[0128] A bearing housing (45b) may be installed on a rear portion of the tub (20b) to rotatably support a rotating shaft (42b). The bearing housing (45b) may be made of aluminum alloy and may be inserted into a rear portion of the tub (20b) when injection molding the tub (20b).

[0129] The washing machine drive unit (40b) may be configured to rotate the drum (30b) in the forward or reverse direction to perform washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying, or drying operations.

[0130] 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).

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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 by passing through the detergent supply device (60b). The water mixed with detergent may be supplied into the tub (20b). The detergent may include not only laundry detergent but also dryer rinse, deodorizer, disinfectant, or air freshener. The detergent supply device (60b) may be connected to the tub (20b) through a connecting pipe (61b).

[0133] 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 from the tub (20b) to the outside of the washing machine housing (11b), a connecting hose (71b) 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 the water pumped by the drainage pump (73b) to the outside of the washing machine housing (11b). The drainage device (70b) may include a drain valve (72b) provided in the connecting hose (71b) to open and close the connecting hose (71b).

[0134] The washing machine (1b) can provide a user interface (15b) for the user and the washing machine (1b) to interact.

[0135] 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).

[0136] At least one input interface (16b) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0137] At least one input interface (16b) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] For example, at least one output interface (17b) can transmit information to the user regarding the washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (1b), as well as washing settings / rinse settings / spin settings. Information regarding the operation of the washing machine (1b) can be output via a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface (17b) may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) module, a speaker, etc.

[0140] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a control block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] In one embodiment, the washing machine (1) may include a user interface (15; 15a, 15b), a driving device (40; 40a, 40b), a water level sensor (95), a communication unit (96), and / or a control unit (90). The control unit may include at least one processor (91) and a memory (92).

[0142] The user interface (15) can provide a user interface for the user and the washing machine (1) to interact.

[0143] The user interface (15) may include at least one input interface (16; 16a, 16b) and at least one output interface (17; 17a, 17b).

[0144] At least one input interface (16) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0145] At least one input interface (16) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. At least one input interface (16) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0146] 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.

[0147] For example, at least one output interface (17) can convey information to the user regarding the washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (1), as well as washing settings, rinse settings, and spin settings. Additionally, as described below, information regarding the amount of water saved by performing a water usage reduction mode can be displayed and conveyed to the user. Information regarding the operation of the washing machine (1) can be output via a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. At least one output interface (17) may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0148] The driving device (40; 40a, 40b) may include a motor (41; 41a, 41b) that provides driving force for rotating 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 from the control unit (90).

[0149] The washing machine (1) may include at least one sensor that obtains information related to the operating state of the washing machine (1). For example, it may include a water level sensor (95) that detects the water level contained inside the drum. This water level sensor (95) can transmit sensor data to the control unit (90).

[0150] The communication unit (96) can communicate with the server (3) or user terminal (2) to transmit and receive various information. This may be a concept that includes the aforementioned communication module.

[0151] The control unit (90) may include a memory (92) that stores a control program and control data for controlling a user interface (15), a driving device (40), and a communication unit (96), 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 as a single unit or separately.

[0152] The memory (92) can store the water level / water usage correlation formula described later, and can store programs and data for controlling the user interface (15), driving device (40), and communication unit (96).

[0153] The memory (92) may include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory, S-RAM) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data. Additionally, the memory (92) may include non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) for long-term data storage.

[0154] The processor (91) may include various logic circuits and arithmetic circuits, process data according to a program provided from memory (92), and generate control signals according to the processing result.

[0155] When a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by a single processor or by a plurality of 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 a first processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by a first processor (e.g., a general-purpose processor) and the third operation may be performed by a second processor (e.g., an artificial intelligence dedicated processor).

[0156] The control unit (90) can be mounted on a printed circuit board, for example, on the back of the user interface (15).

[0157] The control unit (90) can be electrically connected to the user interface (15), the driving device (40), the water level sensor (95), and the communication unit (96).

[0158] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0159] The processor (91) can receive a washing start command from the washing machine (1) (601).

[0160] In one embodiment, the washing machine (1) can provide a plurality of washing courses.

[0161] The user can select one of the multiple washing courses through the user interface (15) and then start the selected washing course.

[0162] The processor (91) can perform a water usage reduction mode that reduces the amount of water required to perform the washing course when starting the washing course.

[0163] Specifically, the memory (92) may store information regarding the user's water usage pattern. This water usage pattern information may be calculated based on information such as how often the user performs a washing course during a specific period. The memory (92) may store a correlation equation for water usage based on the water level inside the drum, and the processor (91) may obtain information regarding water usage based on the water level inside the drum detected by the water level sensor (95) and the correlation equation stored in the memory (92). That is, information regarding water usage by period as a result of performing a washing operation may be obtained, and this water usage pattern information may be stored in the memory (92).

[0164] Additionally, the communication unit (96) can receive usage environment information by communicating with the server (3) and the user terminal (2). Specifically, it can receive environmental information regarding the season and temperature, etc. from the server (3), and can receive information regarding the number of washing machine (1) users, such as family members, through the user terminal (2).

[0165] The processor (91) can perform a water usage reduction mode based on the user's water usage pattern information stored in the memory (92), usage environment information or water usage information received from the server (3) and the user terminal (2).

[0166] As the amount of water used in the washing operation decreases, the processor (91) may further increase the rotational speed and rotation time of the motor that rotates the drum or pulsator when entering the water usage reduction mode to compensate for the washing performance. More specifically, as the amount of water decreases, the rotational speed and rotation time of the motor may be increased when performing the rinsing operation, where the performance difference may be greatest.

[0167] Accordingly, rinsing performance that may be reduced due to the reduced amount of water can be compensated for.

[0168] This water usage reduction mode may be performed directly through input from a user, etc. The user may input a command regarding the performance of the water usage reduction mode through a user terminal (2), or may input a command regarding the performance of the water usage reduction mode through an input unit included in the washing machine (1).

[0169] When a command regarding the execution of such a water usage reduction mode is entered, the processor (91) can execute the water usage reduction mode when running a washing course.

[0170] In another embodiment, the water usage reduction mode may be performed by transmitting a command regarding the performance of the water usage reduction mode to the washing machine (1) within an application of an external device such as a server (2) or a user terminal (3).

[0171] For example, information on water usage patterns, such as how often a user performs a washing course during a specific period, can be received from an external device such as a server (2) or a user terminal (3).

[0172] In addition, the server (2) may receive usage environment information from an external device such as a user terminal (3), or the external device such as a user terminal (3) may receive usage environment information input into the application.

[0173] An application of an external device, such as a server (2) or a user terminal (3), can determine whether to perform a water usage reduction mode based on such water usage pattern information and usage environment information, and can transmit a command to perform the water usage reduction mode to the washing machine (1).

[0174] The processor (91) can perform a water usage reduction mode based on a command to perform a water usage reduction mode received from an external device, such as a server (2) or a user terminal (3).

[0175] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the timing of entering a water usage reduction mode based on progressive information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 9 is a diagram showing progressive information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure being displayed on a user terminal.

[0176] Water usage progressive information may be stored in the memory (92). The water usage progressive information may be information regarding the amount of water used per progressive stage when calculating the progressive water tax. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the progressive stage may increase whenever the water usage exceeds 200[L], 400[L], and 600[L], respectively, and this information may be stored in the memory (92).

[0177] The processor (91) can determine whether to perform the water usage reduction mode by comparing the water usage progressive information and water usage information stored in the memory (92) (801) (803).

[0178] That is, as shown in FIG. 9, if the water usage within a month exceeds 400[L], it moves to the next progressive stage, and if the current water usage is about 300[L], the processor (91) can perform a water usage reduction mode to ensure that the total water usage for a month does not exceed 400[L]. In other words, the timing for entering the water usage reduction mode can be determined based on the water usage. The water usage of 300[L] required to enter the water usage reduction mode is merely an example and can be appropriately determined by considering the water usage that moves to the next progressive stage.

[0179] The processor (91) may change the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on the user's water usage pattern information stored in memory (92), and usage environment information received from the server (3) and the user terminal (2) (805).

[0180] For example, if information is received from the server (3) that the current season is summer and high temperatures are maintained, the number of times the washing course is performed may increase, so the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode may be changed so that it can be entered earlier even if the current water usage is less than 300[L].

[0181] In addition, since the number of times the washing course is performed may increase even when the number of family members received from the user terminal (2) is large, the timing of entry can be changed so that the water usage reduction mode can be entered earlier even if the current water usage is less than 300[L].

[0182] In this way, by performing a water usage reduction mode based on the user's water usage pattern information or usage environment information, water usage can be saved, and consequently, water bills can be saved.

[0183] This information regarding water usage may include not only the amount of water used in the washing machine (1) but also the amount of water used in various household appliances.

[0184] For example, a water usage reduction mode can be performed by taking into account information regarding the amount of water used in various household appliances that use water, such as dishwashers, water purifiers, or refrigerators containing water purifiers. These appliances can be linked with the user terminal (3) and managed integrally through applications of the user terminal (3).

[0185] The water usage information mentioned below may include not only the water usage information used in the washing machine (1) but also the water usage information used in various household appliances that use water.

[0186] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the timing of entering a water usage reduction mode based on target water usage information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0187] In the above-described embodiment, it was explained that a water usage reduction mode is performed to prevent the progressive stage from being exceeded based on the water usage progressive information stored in the memory (92).

[0188] The processor (91) may perform a water usage reduction mode based not only on this water usage progressive information but also on the target water usage information entered by the user.

[0189] The processor (91) can compare the target water usage information received from the user terminal (2) with the current water usage information (1001). Based on the result of this comparison, the processor (91) can determine whether to perform a water usage reduction mode (1003).

[0190] For example, if the target water usage received from the user terminal (2) is 400 [L] within a month, and the current water usage is about 300 [L], the processor (91) can perform a water usage reduction mode to ensure that the total water usage for a month does not exceed 400 [L]. That is, the timing for entering the water usage reduction mode can be determined based on the water usage. The water usage of 300 [L] for entering the water usage reduction mode is merely an example and can be appropriately determined by considering the target water usage, etc.

[0191] Additionally, the processor (91) may change the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on the user's water usage pattern information stored in memory (92), and usage environment information received from the server (3) and the user terminal (2) (1005).

[0192] For example, if information is received from the server (3) that the current season is summer and high temperatures are maintained, the number of times the washing course is performed may increase, so the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode may be changed so that it can be entered earlier even if the current water usage is less than 300[L].

[0193] In addition, since the number of times the washing course is performed may increase even when the number of family members received from the user terminal (2) is large, the timing of entry can be changed so that the water usage reduction mode can be entered earlier even if the current water usage is less than 300[L].

[0194] In the above-described embodiment, the total water usage is set by receiving the target water usage through the user terminal (2). However, the processor (91) may also automatically calculate the water usage by communicating with a water storage device, such as a water tank, through the communication unit (96). That is, by communicating with a water tank used in an apartment, etc., through the communication unit (96), information regarding the amount of usable water can be received, and a water usage reduction mode can be performed based on this information.

[0195] FIGS. 11 and FIGS. 12 are drawings illustrating water usage information displayed on a user terminal or washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0196] The processor (91) can calculate information regarding the amount of water saved as it performs the aforementioned water usage reduction mode. Additionally, the processor (91) can transmit the calculated information regarding the amount of water saved to the user terminal (2) through the communication unit (96).

[0197] That is, as shown in FIG. 11, information regarding water usage and amount saved through the water usage reduction mode is displayed through the user terminal (2), so that the user can easily know information regarding water saving. In addition, such information regarding water usage and amount saved can also be provided through a separate display (15) included in the washing machine (1), as shown in FIG. 12.

[0198] In addition, the information provided through the user terminal (2) or display (15) may include not only the information regarding the aforementioned amount of water saved, but also information regarding the number of washes possible or washing schedules.

[0199] The processor (91) can transmit information regarding the number of washes possible and information regarding the number of washes possible increased according to the water usage reduction mode to the user terminal (2) through the communication unit (96) based on information regarding the water usage limit received from the user terminal (2).

[0200] That is, when a water usage limit is received from the user terminal (2), the number of possible washes is calculated based on the amount of water limit, and information regarding washing scheduling based on the number of possible washes can be transmitted to the user terminal (2).

[0201] Accordingly, information regarding the number of washes possible or washing schedules by week / month / year or designated period is displayed on the user terminal (2), allowing the user to easily perform washing courses while saving water. In addition, information regarding the number of washes possible and washing schedules based on the water usage saved by performing the water usage reduction mode can also be displayed.

[0202] In addition, as described above, the processor (91) can receive information regarding the amount of water available for use by communicating with a water storage / supply device, such as a water tank, through the communication unit (96).

[0203] The processor (91) can calculate the number of times laundry can be done based on information regarding the amount of water available for use received from such water tanks, etc., and can transmit information regarding laundry scheduling based on the number of times laundry can be done to the user terminal (2).

[0204] Accordingly, information regarding the number of washes possible or washing schedules by week / month / year or designated period is displayed on the user terminal (2), allowing the user to easily perform washing courses while saving water. In addition, information regarding the number of washes possible and washing schedules based on the water usage saved by performing the water usage reduction mode can also be displayed.

[0205] By displaying information such as the amount of water saved by performing the water usage reduction mode, the number of washes possible to increase by performing the water usage reduction mode within a limited amount of water, and information regarding washing scheduling, the user can efficiently know the amount of water saved. A washing machine according to one embodiment may include: a memory that stores information on a user's water usage pattern; a communication unit that communicates with a server and a user terminal to receive information on the usage environment; and at least one processor that performs a water usage reduction mode based on the user's water usage pattern information stored in the memory, and the usage environment information or water usage information received from the server and the user terminal.

[0206] According to the present disclosure, water usage can be efficiently saved by automatically performing a water usage reduction mode considering the user's usage patterns or usage environment.

[0207] In addition, by displaying the amount of water saved by performing the water usage reduction mode and the number of washes that can be performed within a limited amount of water on an application, etc., the user can efficiently know the amount of water saved.

[0208] The above at least one processor can determine whether to perform the water usage reduction mode based on the result of comparing the water usage progressive information stored in the memory with the water usage information.

[0209] The above at least one processor can change the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on the user's water usage pattern information stored in the memory and usage environment information received from the server and the user terminal.

[0210] The above at least one processor can determine whether to perform the water usage reduction mode based on the result of comparing the target water usage information received from the user terminal with the water usage information.

[0211] The above at least one processor can change the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on the user's water usage pattern information stored in the memory and usage environment information received from the server and the user terminal.

[0212] The apparatus further includes a drum for receiving laundry; and a water level sensor for detecting the water level inside the drum; and the at least one processor can obtain water usage information based on the detection result of the water level sensor according to a water level / water usage correlation equation stored in the memory.

[0213] It further includes a motor that rotates a drum or pulsator; and when the at least one processor enters the water usage reduction mode, it can increase the rotation speed and rotation time of the motor.

[0214] The above at least one processor can calculate information regarding the amount of water saved as a result of performing the water usage reduction mode, and transmit the calculated information regarding the amount of water saved to the user terminal through the communication unit.

[0215] When the above-mentioned at least one processor receives information regarding a limited water usage amount from the user terminal, it can transmit information regarding the number of washes possible based on the limited water usage amount and information regarding the number of washes possible increased according to the water usage reduction mode to the user terminal through the communication unit.

[0216] A control method for a washing machine according to one embodiment may include storing user's water usage pattern information; receiving usage environment information from a server and a user terminal; and performing a water usage reduction mode based on the stored user's water usage pattern information, the usage environment information or water usage information received from the server and the user terminal.

[0217] Performing the above water usage reduction mode may include determining whether to perform the above water usage reduction mode based on the result of comparing water usage progressive information and the above water usage information.

[0218] Performing the above water usage reduction mode may include changing the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on the stored user's water usage pattern information and usage environment information received from the server and the user terminal.

[0219] Performing the above water usage reduction mode may include determining whether to perform the water usage reduction mode based on the result of comparing the target water usage information received from the user terminal with the water usage information.

[0220] Performing the above water usage reduction mode may include changing the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on the stored user's water usage pattern information and usage environment information received from the server and the user terminal.

[0221] The washing machine may further include a drum in which laundry is received; and a water level sensor for detecting the water level inside the drum; and may further include obtaining water usage information based on the detection result of the water level sensor according to a stored water level / water usage correlation formula.

[0222] It may further include a motor that rotates a drum or pulsator; and, when entering the water usage reduction mode, increase the rotation speed and rotation time of the motor.

[0223] It may further include calculating information regarding the amount of water saved as a result of performing the above water usage reduction mode, and transmitting the calculated information regarding the amount of water saved to the user terminal through the communication unit.

[0224] When information regarding a limited water usage is received from the user terminal, information regarding the number of washes possible based on the limited water usage and information regarding the number of washes possible increased according to the water usage reduction mode may be further included in transmitting to the user terminal through the communication unit.

[0225] According to one aspect of the disclosed invention, water usage can be efficiently saved by automatically performing a water usage reduction mode considering the user's usage patterns or usage environment.

[0226] In addition, by displaying the amount of water saved by performing the water usage reduction mode and the number of washes that can be performed within a limited amount of water on an application, etc., the user can efficiently know the amount of water saved.

[0227] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code and, when executed by a processor, may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0228] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store instructions that can be decoded by a computer. Examples include ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc.

[0229] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been explained with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively.

Claims

1. Memory that stores user's water usage pattern information; A communication unit that communicates with a server and a user terminal to receive usage environment information; and A washing machine comprising at least one processor that performs a water usage reduction mode based on user water usage pattern information stored in the memory, usage environment information or water usage information received from the server and the user terminal.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned at least one processor is, A washing machine that determines whether to perform the water usage reduction mode based on the result of comparing water usage progressive information stored in the memory with the water usage information.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above-mentioned at least one processor is, A washing machine that changes the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on user water usage pattern information stored in the memory and usage environment information received from the server and the user terminal.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned at least one processor is, A washing machine that determines whether to perform the water usage reduction mode based on the result of comparing the target water usage information received from the user terminal with the water usage information.

5. In Paragraph 4, The above-mentioned at least one processor is, A washing machine that changes the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on user water usage pattern information stored in the memory and usage environment information received from the server and the user terminal.

6. In Paragraph 1, A drum for receiving laundry; and It further includes a water level sensor that detects the water level inside the drum; The above-mentioned at least one processor is, A washing machine that acquires water usage information based on the detection result of the water level sensor according to the water level / water usage correlation equation stored in the memory.

7. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a motor that rotates a drum or pulsator, and The above-mentioned at least one processor is, A washing machine that increases the rotation speed and rotation time of the motor when entering the above water usage reduction mode.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned at least one processor is, A washing machine that calculates information regarding the amount of water saved by performing the above water usage reduction mode, and transmits the calculated information regarding the amount of water saved to the user terminal through the communication unit.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned at least one processor is, When information regarding the limited water usage is received from the above user terminal, A washing machine that transmits information regarding the number of washes possible based on the above-mentioned limited water usage and information regarding the number of washes possible increased according to the above-mentioned water usage reduction mode to the user terminal through the communication unit.

10. Store user's water usage pattern information; Receive usage environment information from a server and a user terminal; A method for controlling a washing machine comprising: performing a water usage reduction mode based on the user's stored water usage pattern information, usage environment information or water usage information received from the server and the user terminal.

11. In Paragraph 10, Performing the above water usage reduction mode is, A control method for a washing machine comprising determining whether to perform the water usage reduction mode based on the result of comparing water usage progressive information and the water usage information.

12. In Paragraph 11, Performing the above water usage reduction mode is, A control method for a washing machine comprising changing the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on the stored user's water usage pattern information and usage environment information received from the server and the user terminal.

13. In Paragraph 10, Performing the above water usage reduction mode is, A control method for a washing machine comprising determining whether to perform the water usage reduction mode based on the result of comparing the target water usage information received from the user terminal with the water usage information.

14. In Paragraph 13, Performing the above water usage reduction mode is, A control method for a washing machine comprising changing the timing of entry into the water usage reduction mode based on the stored user's water usage pattern information and usage environment information received from the server and the user terminal.

15. In Paragraph 10, The above washing machine is, A drum for receiving laundry; and It further includes a water level sensor that detects the water level inside the drum; A control method for a washing machine further comprising: obtaining water usage information based on the detection result of the water level sensor according to a stored water level / water usage correlation equation.

Images