Washing machine and control method thereof

Abstract

The present invention relates to a washing machine and a control method thereof. The washing machine of the present invention: recognizes a first weight of laundry accommodated in a drum and a material of the laundry, on the basis of a current detected by a current detection unit when a motor rotates before a washing cycle; recognizes a first correction value and a second correction value corresponding to the first weight and the material of the laundry; recognizes a second weight of the laundry on the basis of a current detected by the current detection unit when the motor rotates after a drainage cycle; corrects the second weight on the basis of the recognized first correction value; recognizes a third weight of the laundry on the basis of a current detected by the current detection unit when the motor rotates after a dehydration cycle; corrects the third weight on the basis of the recognized second correction value; recognizes a final weight of the laundry on the basis of the first weight and at least one of the corrected second weight and the corrected third weight; and outputs information on the recognized final weight of the laundry through an output interface.

Description

Washing machine and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to a washing machine for recognizing the weight of a laundry cloth and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] The washing machine may perform a weight recognition process for recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth, a washing process for separating contaminants from the laundry cloth using water in which detergent is dissolved, a rinsing process for removing contaminants or residual detergent from the laundry cloth using water that does not contain detergent, a spin-drying process for removing water from the laundry cloth, a drainage process for discharging water inside the tub to the outside during the washing process, the rinsing process, and the spin-drying process, and may further perform a drying process for drying the laundry cloth using heat generated from a drying device.

[0003] One example of a method for recognizing the weight of a laundry cloth is a method using a motor connected to the drum. More specifically, conventional washing machines apply torque to the motor for a certain period of time to rotate the drum, and after recognizing the inertia value of the rotating drum directly or indirectly, recognize the weight of the laundry cloth based on the recognized inertia value.

[0004] Conventional washing machines had a resolution of over 2kg for recognizing the weight of laundry cloths, which meant there was a high possibility of misrecognizing the weight of the laundry cloths.

[0005] One aspect of the disclosed invention provides a washing machine and a control method thereof that finally recognize the weight of a laundry cloth based on the weight of the laundry cloth in a dry state, the weight of the laundry cloth in a wet state, and a correction value according to the material of the laundry cloth.

[0006] Another aspect of the disclosed invention provides a washing machine and a control method thereof that finally recognize the weight of a laundry cloth based on the weight of the laundry cloth in a dry state, the weight of the laundry cloth in a first wet state, the weight of the laundry cloth in a second wet state, and first and second correction values ​​according to the material of the laundry cloth.

[0007] A washing machine according to one aspect of the disclosed invention comprises: a drum for receiving a laundry cloth; a motor for rotating the drum; a current detection unit for detecting a current flowing through the motor; and a control unit for recognizing a first weight of the laundry cloth and the material of the laundry cloth based on a current detected when the motor rotates before a washing cycle, recognizing a second weight of the laundry cloth based on a current detected when the motor rotates after a washing cycle, recognizing a correction value corresponding to the first weight and the material of the laundry cloth, correcting the second weight based on the recognized correction value, and recognizing the final weight of the laundry cloth based on the corrected second weight and the first weight.

[0008] A control unit of a washing machine according to one aspect recognizes a second weight of the laundry cloth when the drainage process is completed after the washing process.

[0009] A control unit of a washing machine according to one aspect recognizes a second weight of the laundry cloth when the spin cycle is completed after the washing cycle.

[0010] A control unit of a washing machine according to one aspect controls a rinsing cycle after a washing cycle, and recognizes a second weight of the laundry cloth when the draining cycle for the rinsing cycle is completed.

[0011] A control unit of a washing machine according to one aspect controls a rinsing cycle after a washing cycle, and recognizes a second weight of the laundry cloth when the spin cycle for the rinsing cycle is completed.

[0012] A control unit of a washing machine according to one aspect recognizes a second weight of a laundry cloth after a washing process and when a draining process is completed, controls a spin-drying process after a draining process is completed, recognizes a third weight of a laundry cloth after a spin-drying process is completed, recognizes a second correction value corresponding to a first weight and the material of the laundry cloth, corrects the third weight based on the recognized second correction value, and recognizes the final weight of the laundry cloth based on the corrected second weight, the corrected third weight, and the first weight.

[0013] A control unit of a washing machine according to one aspect inputs the corrected second weight and first weight into an artificial intelligence model and recognizes the final weight of the laundry cloth based on the learning result of the artificial intelligence model.

[0014] A control unit of a washing machine according to one aspect recognizes a change value of the motor's rotational speed based on a current detected while applying a reference current to the motor and a reference voltage applied to the motor, recognizes a torque value of the motor based on the reference current and a torque constant, and recognizes a first and second weight of the laundry cloth based on the recognized change value of the rotational speed and the torque value.

[0015] A washing machine according to one aspect further includes a water supply device that supplies water to a drum. A control unit of a washing machine according to one aspect recognizes a current and a ripple current detected by a current detection unit during a first rotational stroke before a washing stroke, controls the water supply device when the first rotational stroke is completed, recognizes a current detected by a current detection unit during a second rotational stroke when water supply is completed, and recognizes the material of the laundry cloth based on at least one of the current, ripple current, and current recognized during the first rotational stroke.

[0016] A washing machine according to one aspect further includes an output interface that outputs information about the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth.

[0017] A washing machine according to one aspect further includes a communication unit that transmits information about the final weight of a recognized laundry cloth to an external device.

[0018] A control method for a washing machine according to another aspect recognizes a first weight and material of a laundry cloth contained in a drum based on a current detected by a current detection unit when the motor rotates before the washing stroke, recognizes a first correction value and a second correction value corresponding to the first weight and material of the laundry cloth, recognizes a second weight of the laundry cloth based on a current detected by a current detection unit when the motor rotates after the draining stroke, corrects the second weight based on the recognized first correction value, recognizes a third weight of the laundry cloth based on a current detected by a current detection unit when the motor rotates after the spin stroke, corrects the third weight based on the recognized second correction value, recognizes the final weight of the laundry cloth based on at least one of the corrected second weight and the corrected third weight and the first weight, and outputs information regarding the recognized final weight of the laundry cloth through an output interface.

[0019] The drainage administration includes at least one of the drainage administration for the washing administration and the drainage administration for the rinsing administration.

[0020] The spin-drying process includes at least one of the spin-drying process for the washing process and the spin-drying process for the rinsing process.

[0021] Recognizing the final weight of the laundry cloth includes inputting at least one of a corrected second weight and a corrected third weight and a first weight into an artificial intelligence model, and recognizing the final weight of the laundry cloth based on the learning result of the artificial intelligence model.

[0022] The control method of the washing machine further includes transmitting information about the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth to an external device.

[0023] Recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth includes recognizing a change value of the motor's rotational speed based on the current detected by the current detection unit and the reference voltage applied to the motor while applying a reference current to the motor, recognizing a torque value of the motor based on the reference current and the torque constant, and recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth based on the recognized change value of the rotational speed and the torque value.

[0024] Recognizing the material of the laundry cloth includes recognizing the current and ripple current detected by a current detection unit during a first rotational stroke before the washing stroke, controlling a water supply device to supply water to the drum when the first rotational stroke is completed, recognizing the current detected by a current detection unit during a second rotational stroke when the water supply is completed, and recognizing the material of the laundry cloth based on at least one of the current, ripple current, and current recognized during the first rotational stroke.

[0025] The control method of the washing machine further includes changing the execution information of the remaining cycle based on the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth.

[0026] The control method of the washing machine further includes providing information on the amount of detergent and the amount of water based on the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth.

[0027] According to the disclosed invention, the accuracy of recognizing the weight of a laundry cloth inserted into a drum can be improved, thereby enabling the user to accurately recognize the weight of the laundry cloth inside the drum.

[0028] The disclosed invention can improve user convenience for recognizing the weight of a laundry cloth by outputting the weight of the laundry cloth recognized through the output interface of a washing machine, a user device, a server, or a home appliance.

[0029] The disclosed invention can provide the user with information regarding the weight of a laundry cloth over a certain period, such as annually, monthly, or weekly, and information regarding the amount of water, detergent, fabric softener, etc., used corresponding to the weight of the laundry cloth.

[0030] The disclosed invention can improve the user's awareness of the weight of the laundry cloth recognized by each cycle by displaying the weight of the laundry cloth recognized based on the completion of the washing cycle and the rinsing cycle.

[0031] The disclosed invention can automatically adjust at least one of a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and a spin cycle based on the weight of a recognized laundry cloth, or provide the user with information suggesting adjustments for at least one of the washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and a spin cycle. Through this, the disclosed invention can reduce waste of water, detergent, and energy, achieve optimized washing machine performance, and improve the reliability of the washing machine.

[0032] The disclosed invention can improve the safety of a washing machine, improve the quality and marketability of the washing machine, and further secure the competitiveness of the washing machine.

[0033] Figure 1 is an exemplary diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a control configuration diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 4 is an example diagram of a driving unit provided in a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 5 is an example diagram of a control unit provided in a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a graph of the current and rotation speed when the weight of a laundry cloth contained in a washing machine according to an embodiment is recognized.

[0039] Figure 7 is a graph of weight recognition by material of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 8 is an example diagram of the display of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a graph of a reference weight corresponding to the actual weight of a laundry cloth in a washing machine according to an embodiment, a first weight in a dry state, and a corrected second weight.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a table of the number of recognized final weights according to the actual weight of the laundry cloth of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 11 is a modified example of a control configuration diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 12 is a first control flowchart of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 13 is a second control flowchart of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 14 is a third control flowchart of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0047] 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.

[0048] In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0049] The singular form of the noun corresponding to the item may include one or multiple items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0050] 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.

[0051] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0052] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish a component from another component and do not limit the components in other aspects (e.g., importance or order).

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] When it is said that a 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] A washing machine according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying processes. A washing machine may be an example of a garment processing device. A garment processing device is a concept that encompasses a device for washing a laundry cloth (a laundry object, a drying object), a device for drying a laundry cloth, and a device capable of performing both washing and drying of a laundry cloth.

[0058] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which an opening for inserting or withdrawing laundry cloths is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which an opening 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.

[0059] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry cloths can be washed using a water flow generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator.

[0060] In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry.

[0061] A front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine capable of drying a laundry cloth contained inside a drum. The washing machine 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 may include a heat pump device. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with washing methods other than those described above.

[0062] 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 an input opening formed on one side.

[0063] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the input opening. 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.

[0064] 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 an inlet.

[0065] 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.

[0066] The washing machine may include a drum provided to accommodate laundry cloths.

[0067] The drum may be positioned inside the tub such that a drum opening provided on one side corresponds to an input port and a tub opening. The laundry cloth may pass through the input port, the tub opening, and the drum opening in sequence to be received inside the drum or withdrawn from the drum.

[0068] The drum can rotate inside the tub and perform respective actions according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying cycles. A number of through 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.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal. 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.

[0077] At least one output interface can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user. For example, at least one output interface can convey information related to the washing course, the washing machine's operating time, and washing settings, rinse settings, and spin settings to the user. 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.

[0078] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with an external device via wired and / or wireless means.

[0079] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0080] 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.

[0081] To this end, the communication module may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a 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).

[0082] 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.

[0083] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] Hereinafter, washing machines according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the following description, a washing machine combined with a dryer is described as an example of a washing machine, but the concept of the present disclosure is not limited to a washing machine combined with a dryer and can be applied to various devices for processing and / or managing clothing.

[0087] Terms such as "front," "rear," "left," and "right" used in the following description are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0088] For example, the X-axis direction can be defined as the front-to-back direction of the washing machine, the Y-axis direction can be defined as the left-to-right direction of the washing machine, and the Z-axis direction can be defined as the up-to-down direction of the washing machine.

[0089] FIG. 1 is an external view of a washing machine according to an embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the washing machine shown in FIG. 1. A front-loading washing machine without a drying cycle is described as an example of the washing machine of the present embodiment.

[0090] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the washing machine (1) includes a housing (110), a tub (120), a drum (130), a heating device (140), a water supply device (150), a detergent supply device (160), a drainage device (170), a driving device (180), and a control panel (190).

[0091] The housing (110) forms the exterior of the washing machine (1) and accommodates various components inside.

[0092] The housing (110) may be provided in the shape of a box. The housing (110) may include a plurality of frames. For example, the housing (110) may include a front frame, a top frame, a side frame, a rear frame, and a bottom frame. The plurality of frames may be provided to be connectable. The housing (110) may be formed by connecting the plurality of frames. Alternatively, the plurality of frames may be formed integrally.

[0093] The housing (110) may be provided with an opening for inserting and removing laundry cloths. The opening may be provided to face the front of the washing machine.

[0094] The washing machine (1) may include a door (111) for opening and closing the input opening.

[0095] The door (111) can be rotatably mounted to the housing (110) by means of a hinge. At least a portion of the door (111) may be made transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing (110) is visible. For example, the door (111) may include tempered glass.

[0096] A gasket (112) for sealing between the door (111) and the opening may be provided on the perimeter surface of the input opening of the housing (110).

[0097] The washing machine (1) may include a tub (120) that is fixedly installed inside the housing (110) and receives water supplied from a water supply device (150).

[0098] The tub (120) may be provided in a roughly cylindrical shape. The tub (120) may include a tub opening. The tub opening may be provided at a position corresponding to the location of the inlet. The tub opening may be provided to face approximately forward. The tub opening may be opened or closed by a door (111).

[0099] The tub (120) can be connected to the housing (110) by a damper (114). The damper (114) can absorb vibrations or shocks that occur when the drum (130) rotates, thereby dampening the vibrations transmitted to the housing (110).

[0100] The damper (114) may be a hydraulic damper filled with fluid inside, or a friction damper in which a damping effect can occur due to the frictional force of a friction member provided inside. The type of damper (114) is not limited to the above description.

[0101] The washing machine (1) may include a drum (130) that accommodates a laundry cloth.

[0102] The drum (130) can be provided inside the tub (120) with a shape corresponding to the shape of the tub (120).

[0103] The drum (130) may include a drum opening provided on one side of the drum for inserting a laundry cloth, a plurality of holes (131) provided on the inner surface of the drum, and at least one lifter (132) provided on the inner surface of the drum and protruding from the inner surface to perform washing by raising and dropping the laundry cloth.

[0104] A plurality of holes provided on the wall of the drum (130) can function as a flow path to allow water from the tub (120) to flow into the interior of the drum (130) or to allow water from the interior of the drum (130) to flow out to the tub (120).

[0105] The drum opening can be provided at a position corresponding to the location of the input port and the location of the tub opening. The drum opening can be provided to face approximately the front of the washing machine.

[0106] The laundry cloth can be received inside the drum (130) or withdrawn from the drum (130) by passing through the input port, the tub opening, and the drum opening in sequence.

[0107] The drum (130) can rotate inside the tub (120) and perform each operation according to the weight recognition of the laundry cloth, the material recognition of the laundry cloth, washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying process.

[0108] The washing machine (1) may further include a heating device (140) provided in a tub (120) for heating water inside the tub (120). The heating device (140) may include at least one heater.

[0109] The washing machine (1) may further include a temperature sensor (not shown) for detecting the temperature of heated water, and may control the operation of the heating device (140) based on the temperature of the water detected by the temperature sensor.

[0110] The water supply device (150) is a device that supplies external water to the tub (120) and includes a water supply pipe (151) and a water supply valve (152).

[0111] One end of the water supply pipe (151) may be connected to an external water pipe (not shown), etc., and the other end may be connected to a detergent supply device (160). The water supply pipe (151) receives water from the external water pipe and guides it into the detergent supply device (160).

[0112] A water supply pipe (151) can be connected between the detergent supply device (160) and the tub (120). The water supply pipe (151) guides water supplied from an external water pipe into the tub (120) and the drum (130) together with the detergent stored in the detergent supply device (160).

[0113] The water supply pipes (151) may consist of multiple pipes. At least one of the water supply pipes may guide water from the water supply valve to the tub (120). At least one of the water supply pipes may extend from the water supply valve to the tub (120).

[0114] The water supply pipe (151) can be made of a flexible material hose, plastic pipe, or metal pipe.

[0115] The water supply valve (152) can supply water or cut off the water supply. The water supply valve (152) can be opened or closed, and the degree of opening can be adjusted.

[0116] The water supply valve (152) may allow or block the supply of water from an external water source to the tub (120) or regulate the amount of water supplied into the tub (120) and the drum (130). For example, the water supply valve (152) may include a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0117] The water supply valve (152) can be opened and closed during washing and rinsing cycles.

[0118] In addition, the washing machine may supply high-temperature water and wash laundry using the supplied hot water. In this case, the washing machine may include a cold water supply pipe that receives cold water and supplies it to a tub, and a hot water supply pipe that receives hot water and supplies it to a tub, and may include a cold water supply valve provided in the cold water supply pipe and a hot water supply valve provided in the hot water supply pipe.

[0119] The detergent supply device (160) stores the detergent supplied by the user. The detergent supply device (160) stores at least one of synthetic detergent, fabric softener, and bleach, and can store them in different spaces.

[0120] The detergent supply device (160) allows water to flow in through the water supply pipe (151) during a washing process, and the water to flow out through the water supply pipe (151) along with the detergent.

[0121] The detergent supply device (160) may include a manual detergent supply device that allows detergent to be supplied by a user, or an automatic detergent supply device that allows some of the detergent stored in advance to be supplied automatically.

[0122] The detergent supply device (160) may be connected to the tub (120) through a detergent connecting pipe. For example, the detergent supply device (160) may be configured to supply solid laundry detergent and / or fabric softener, etc., to the tub (120). However, the type of detergent is not limited to the above example.

[0123] The detergent connector can be provided in a U-shape. The detergent connector can be provided as a flexible hose, plastic tube, or metal tube. One end of the detergent connector is connected to a detergent supply device (160), and the other end of the detergent connector can be connected to a tub (120).

[0124] The drainage device (170) is a device for discharging water from the tub (120) and drum (130) to the outside, and may include a drain pipe (171) and a drain pump (172), and may further include a drain valve provided in the drain pipe.

[0125] A drain pipe (171) is provided at the bottom of the tub (120) and can be connected to an external pipe.

[0126] The drainage pump (172) pumps water inside the tub (120) and drum (130) during the drainage and dewatering process.

[0127] The drainage pump (172) allows water from the tub (120) and drum (130) to flow in along the drain pipe (171) when pumping, and guides the incoming water to the outside through the drain pipe (171), thereby allowing the water inside the tub (120) and drum (130) to be discharged to the outside.

[0128] The washing machine (1) may also include a circulation pump (not shown) for pumping water from the tub (120) and circulating the pumped water back to the tub (120).

[0129] The washing machine (1) may include a water level sensor (not shown) that detects the water level inside the tub (120).

[0130] The washing machine (1) may include a drive device (180) that rotates the drum (30).

[0131] The driving device (180) may include a motor (181) connected to the rear of the tub (120) and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the motor (181) to the drum (130). The rotating shaft may pass through the tub (120) and be connected to the drum (130).

[0132] The motor (181) can rotate the drum (130) in the forward or reverse direction to perform each operation according to the washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying or drying cycles.

[0133] The motor (181) is driven when the weight of the laundry cloth is recognized, when the material of the laundry cloth is recognized, during the washing process, during the rinsing process, during the spin-drying process, and during the drying process, and by rotating the drum (130) with the driving force resulting from the driving, the weight recognition of the laundry cloth, the material recognition of the laundry cloth, and the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying of the laundry cloth contained in the drum (130) can be performed.

[0134] If the washing machine includes a drying process, the motor (181) can also be used to perform the drying process of the laundry cloth.

[0135] The motor (181) can generate driving force from the power of an external power source and transmit the generated driving force as rotational force to the drum (130) through the rotating shaft (181).

[0136] The motor (181) may include a stator (182) and a rotor (183).

[0137] The stator (182) of the motor (181) can be fixed to the rear of the tub (120).

[0138] One end of the rotor (183) of the motor (181) is fixed to the rotation shaft, and the other end of the rotor (183) can be fixed to the drum (130) by passing through the tub (120).

[0139] The rotor (183) of the motor is installed on the outside of the stator (182) and can rotate by interacting with the stator (182).

[0140] The motor (181) may be a brushless direct current motor (BLDC motor) or a synchronous motor, which allows for easy control of rotational speed. Additionally, the motor (181) may be a direct current motor (DC motor) or an induction motor, which is inexpensive.

[0141] The washing machine (1) may include a control panel (190) provided on one side of the housing (110).

[0142] The control panel (190) may include a user interface for the user and the washing machine (1) to interact. The user interface may include at least one input interface (191) for receiving user input and at least one output interface (192) for outputting information related to the operation of the washing machine.

[0143] For example, at least one input interface (191) can convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0144] At least one input interface (191) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a washing / rinsing / spin setting button.

[0145] Courses may include standard, duvet, boil, wool wash, towel, quick wash, etc.

[0146] Wash and rinse setting information set by the wash / rinse / spin setting button may include the amount of water, the temperature of the water, the time of the wash cycle, and the number of rinse cycles, and spin setting information may include at least one of the intensity of the spin cycle and the time of the spin cycle.

[0147] If a drying process is included, at least one input interface may include a drying setting button. The drying setting information set by the drying setting button may include drying degree information and drying time information.

[0148] At least one input interface (191) may include 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.

[0149] At least one output interface (192) can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine (1) to the user. For example, at least one output interface can convey information related to the washing course and the operating time of the washing machine (1), as well as washing settings / rinse settings / spin settings to the user.

[0150] At least one output interface (192) can transmit information related to the weight of the laundry cloth to the user. The information related to the weight of the laundry cloth may include weight information of the laundry cloth in kilograms.

[0151] Information regarding the operation of the washing machine (1) can be displayed on a screen, indicator, voice, etc.

[0152] At least one output interface may include a display and may further include a speaker.

[0153] The display unit may be provided with a Cathode Ray Tube (CRT), Digital Light Processing (DLP) panel, Plasma Display Panel, Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, Electro Luminescence (EL) panel, Electrophoretic Display (EPD) panel, Electrochromic Display (ECD) panel, Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, or Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) panel, but is not limited thereto.

[0154] In FIGS. 1 and 2, the washing machine (1) is exemplified as a washing machine for washing, but is not limited thereto. The washing machine (1) may correspond to a washing machine for drying and may correspond to a dryer.

[0155] FIG. 3 is a control configuration diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment, which will be explained with reference to FIGS. 4 to 10.

[0156] FIG. 4 is an example diagram of a driving unit provided in a washing machine according to an embodiment, FIG. 5 is an example diagram of a control unit provided in a washing machine according to an embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a graph of current and rotation speed when the weight of a laundry cloth contained in a washing machine according to an embodiment is recognized.

[0157] FIG. 7 is a graph of weight recognition by material of a washing machine according to an embodiment, FIG. 8 is an example of display of the display unit of a washing machine according to an embodiment, FIG. 9 is a graph of a reference weight corresponding to the actual weight of a laundry cloth of a washing machine according to an embodiment, a first weight in a dry state, and a corrected second weight, FIG. 10 is a table of the number of times the final weight recognized by the actual weight of a laundry cloth of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0158] The washing machine (1) includes an input interface (191), an output interface (192), a detection unit (210), a driving unit (220), and a control unit (230).

[0159] The input interface (191) receives user input.

[0160] The input interface (191) may include hardware devices such as various buttons or switches, pedals, keyboards, mice, trackballs, various levers, handles or sticks.

[0161] Additionally, the input interface (191) may include a device that is a GUI (Graphical User Interface), such as a touch pad, i.e., a software device. The touch pad may be implemented as a touch screen panel (TSP) and may form an interlayer structure with the display.

[0162] The output interface (192) outputs information related to the status or operation of the washing machine (1), guides related to the use of the washing machine (1), and outputs information related to user input received by the input interface (191).

[0163] The input interface (191) and output interface (192) are described in FIGS. 1 and FIG. 2, so the description here is omitted.

[0164] The detection unit (210) detects an electrical signal applied to the motor (181) to recognize information related to the operation of the motor (181) and transmits the detected electrical signal to the control unit (230).

[0165] Information related to the operation of the motor (181) may include at least one of current information applied to the motor (181), voltage information applied to the motor (181), torque information of the motor (181), rotational speed information of the motor (181), and power information of the motor (181).

[0166] The electrical signal may include at least one of a current signal, a voltage signal, and a power signal.

[0167] The detection unit (210) may include a current detection unit (211 of FIG. 4) that detects the current applied to the motor (181).

[0168] The current detection unit (211) can detect the current applied to the motor (181) through at least one input terminal among the three-phase input terminals of the motor (181) provided in the driving unit (220) and output a signal corresponding to the detected current. Here, the signal may be a signal corresponding to the value of the current applied to the motor (181).

[0169] The detection unit (210) may include a voltage detection unit (212 in FIG. 4) that detects the voltage applied to both ends of the motor (181). The voltage detection unit (212) can detect the DC voltage at both ends of the DC voltage provided in the driving unit (220).

[0170] The detection unit (210) is for detecting power of the motor (181) and may include a current detection unit for detecting current applied to the motor (181) and a voltage detection unit for detecting voltage applied to both ends of the motor (181).

[0171] The driving unit (220) drives the motor (181) based on the control command of the control unit (230).

[0172] The driving unit (220) may include an inverter (221). The inverter (221) can generate current applied to the motor (181) according to a control command of the control unit (230).

[0173] The driving unit (220) can turn on and turn off a plurality of switching elements (Q11~Q13, Q21~Q23) provided in the inverter (221) based on a control signal (VPWM) output from the control unit (230).

[0174] As shown in FIG. 4, the driving unit (220) includes an inverter (221) and may further include a power supply unit (222), a rectifier unit (223), and a smoothing unit (224).

[0175] The power supply unit (222) is connected to an external power supply unit (not shown) to receive commercial AC power from the outside and transmits the received AC power to the rectifier unit (223).

[0176] The rectifier (223) includes at least one diode, rectifies AC power input from the power supply (222), and transmits the rectified power to the smoothing unit (224).

[0177] The rectifier (223) may include a bridge diode.

[0178] The smoothing portion (224) may include at least one capacitor.

[0179] The smoothing unit (224) smooths the power delivered from the rectifier (223) to reduce the pulsation of the current of the power rectified by the rectifier (223), converts the smoothed power into a constant amount of direct current (DC) power for driving the motor (181), and delivers the converted direct current power to the inverter (221).

[0180] The inverter (221) can apply a voltage corresponding to the target voltage to the motor (181) and a current corresponding to the target current to the motor (181).

[0181] This inverter (221) includes a plurality of switching elements that convert the DC power transmitted from the smoothing section (224) into three-phase AC power.

[0182] A plurality of switching elements of the inverter (221) are each driven according to a control command of the control unit (230) to modulate the pulse width of the signal transmitted to the motor (181).

[0183] Here, the plurality of switching elements of the inverter (221) may include three upper switching elements (Q11~Q13) and three lower switching elements (Q21~Q23).

[0184] Each of the three upper switching elements (Q11~Q13) and the three lower switching elements (Q21~Q23) can be connected in series. That is, the first upper switching circuit (Q11) and the first lower switching circuit (Q21) can be connected in series on the U terminal, the second upper switching circuit (Q12) can be connected in series with the second lower switching circuit (Q22) on the V terminal, and the third upper switching circuit (Q13) can be connected in series with the third lower switching circuit (Q23) on the W terminal. Additionally, diodes can be connected in parallel with the U terminal, the V terminal, and the W terminal.

[0185] Additionally, three nodes to which three upper switching circuits (Q11~Q13) and three lower switching circuits (Q21~Q23) are respectively connected are each connected to three input terminals (a, b, c) of the motor (181). Accordingly, current can be supplied to the motor (181) through the three input terminals (a, b, c).

[0186] The voltage detection unit (212) of the washing machine can be connected to both ends of the smoothing unit (224) that outputs a DC voltage. This voltage detection unit (212) can detect a DC voltage.

[0187] The control unit (230) can be electrically connected to various parts and / or devices of the washing machine (1) and can control various parts and / or devices. That is, the control unit (230) controls the overall operation of the washing machine.

[0188] The control unit (230) can control at least one of the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying operations based on user input received at the input interface (191).

[0189] More specifically, the control unit (230) determines the washing time, the number of rinses, the rinsing time, the spin intensity, and the spin time based on user input received at the input interface (191), and controls at least one of the heating device (140), the water supply device (150), the drainage device (170), and the driving device (180) based on the determined washing time, the number of rinses, the rinsing time, the spin intensity, and the spin time so that the washing, rinsing, and spin times are performed.

[0190] For example, the control unit (230) may determine information for performing a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and a spin cycle based on course information and water supply amount information received at the input interface (191), and may also control at least one of the heating device (140), the water supply device (150), the drainage device (170), and the driving device (180) based on the determined information for performing a washing cycle, a rinsing cycle, and a spin cycle.

[0191] The performance information of the laundry administration may include information regarding the laundry time.

[0192] The performance information of the rinsing process may include information on at least one of the number of rinses and the rinse time.

[0193] Information on the performance of the dehydration process may include information on at least one of the dehydration intensity and the dehydration time.

[0194] The control unit (230) can control the output interface (192) so that operation information related to the operation of the washing machine is output.

[0195] When a start command is received through the input interface (191), the control unit (230) controls the motor (181) and can recognize the weight of the laundry cloth contained in the drum (130) and the material of the laundry cloth based on the current detected by the current detection unit (211). The configuration for recognizing the weight and material of the laundry cloth will be explained later.

[0196] The control unit (230) determines a first water supply amount for a washing process and a second water supply amount for a rinsing process based on the weight of the recognized laundry cloth and course information received by the input interface (191), determines information for performing a spin-drying process, controls the water supply device (150) based on the first water supply amount determined during the washing process, controls the water supply device (150) based on the second water supply amount during the rinsing process, and when the washing process and rinsing process are completed, it is also possible to control the rotation of the motor (181) based on the information for performing the spin-drying process determined.

[0197] When controlling the water supply device, the control unit (230) can control the water supply valve based on the water level and the first water supply amount detected by the water level sensor during the washing process, and can control the water supply valve based on the water level and the second water supply amount detected by the water level sensor during the rinsing process. Here, the first water supply amount and the second water supply amount may be the same or different.

[0198] The control unit (230) determines a first water supply amount for a washing process and a second water supply amount for a rinsing process based on the weight of the recognized laundry cloth and the material of the recognized laundry cloth, determines information for performing a spin-drying process, controls the water supply device (150) based on the first water supply amount determined during the washing process, controls the water supply device (150) based on the second water supply amount during the rinsing process, and when the washing process and the rinsing process are completed, it is also possible to control the rotation of the motor (181) based on the information for performing the spin-drying process determined.

[0199] The control unit (230) may automatically change the washing course based on the recognized material of the laundry cloth, and may also control the output interface (192) to guide the user to a recommended washing course corresponding to the recognized material of the laundry cloth.

[0200] The control unit (230) may also control the output interface (192) to output at least one adjustment suggestion information among the performance information of the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying cycles determined based on at least one of the weight of the recognized laundry cloth and the material of the laundry cloth.

[0201] The control unit (230) can perform a drainage process by controlling the drainage pump of the drainage device based on the completion of the washing process and the rinsing process, and can control the stop of the drainage pump based on the operating time of the drainage pump or the water level detected by the water level sensor during the drainage process.

[0202] The control unit (230) can control the drainage pump during the intermediate dewatering process and the final dewatering process, and it is also possible to control the drainage pump based on the completion of the intermediate dewatering process and the final dewatering process.

[0203] The control unit (230) can determine the rotation direction, rotation angle, rotation speed, and rotation time of the drum (130) for each stroke based on at least one of the weight of the recognized laundry cloth, the material of the laundry cloth, and the course information received by the input interface (191), and can control the motor (181) for each stroke based on the determined rotation direction, rotation speed, rotation angle, and rotation time of the drum (130).

[0204] When controlling the motor (181), the control unit (230) can control the rotational speed of the motor (181) by recognizing the position of the rotor based on the current detected by the current detection unit (211), recognizing the rotational speed of the motor based on the recognized rotational speed of the motor and the target rotational speed, recognizing the target voltage based on the recognized target current and the detected current, and controlling the inverter (221) based on the recognized target voltage.

[0205] The configuration of the control unit (230) for controlling the rotational speed of the motor (181) is explained with reference to FIG. 5.

[0206] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the control unit (230) includes a speed recognition unit (231), an input coordinate conversion unit (232), a speed control unit (233), a current control unit (234), an output coordinate conversion unit (235), a PWM signal generation unit (236), and a position recognition unit (237).

[0207] The speed recognition unit (231) recognizes the rotational speed (ω) of the motor based on the position (θ) of the rotor recognized by the position recognition unit (237).

[0208] The input coordinate conversion unit (232) converts the a, b, and c phase currents detected by the current detection unit (211) into d-axis currents and q-axis currents based on the position (θ) of the rotor of the recognized motor.

[0209] The speed control unit (233) compares the target rotational speed (or speed command, ω*) input from the outside with the rotational speed (ω) of the motor recognized by the speed recognition unit (231), and outputs the target current (or current command, I*) according to the comparison result.

[0210] The speed control unit (233) may include a proportional controller (P), a proportional integral controller (PI), or a proportional integral derivative controller (PID).

[0211] The current control unit (234) compares the target current (I*) output from the speed control unit (233) with the detected motor current (Iabc) and outputs the target voltage (V*) according to the comparison result.

[0212] The current control unit (234) can compare the q-axis target current output from the speed control unit (233) with the q-axis current of the converted motor, output a q-axis target voltage according to the comparison result, obtain a d-axis target current based on the recognized rotational speed (ω) of the motor and the recognized rotor position (θ) of the rotor, compare the d-axis target current with the d-axis current of the converted motor, and output a d-axis target voltage according to the comparison result.

[0213] Here, the d-axis current can be a current with a magnetic flux component, and the q-axis current can be a current with a torque component.

[0214] The current control unit (234) may also include a proportional controller, a proportional-integral controller, or a proportional-integral-derivative controller.

[0215] The output coordinate transformation unit (235) converts the d-axis target voltage and the q-axis target voltage into a, b, and c-phase target voltages (Vabc*) based on the recognized rotor position (θ).

[0216] The PWM signal generation unit (236) generates a control signal (VPWM) to be provided to the inverter (231) based on the target voltages (Vabc*) of phases a, b, and c.

[0217] Specifically, the PWM signal generation unit (236) pulses width modulates (PWM) each of the a, b, and c phase target voltages (Vabc*) and outputs a control signal (VPWM) that turns on / off a plurality of switching circuits (Q11~Q13, Q21~Q23) of the inverter (231).

[0218] The position recognition unit (237) can recognize the position (θ) of the rotor based on the current (Iabc) detected by the current detection unit (211) and the target voltage (Vabc*) output from the output coordinate transformation unit (225). The position (θ) of the rotor may be the phase angle of the motor.

[0219] In addition, the washing machine can also detect the position of the rotor using a position detection unit (not shown).

[0220] The control unit (230) controls the operation of the motor by converting the a, b, and c phases of the motor into the d and q axes.

[0221] Specifically, the control unit (230) converts the a-phase, b-phase, and c-phase currents of the motor into d-axis and q-axis currents, and converts the a-phase, b-phase, and c-phase voltages into d-axis and q-axis voltages.

[0222] Here, the d-axis refers to an axis in a direction that coincides with the direction of the magnetic field generated by the rotor of the motor, and the q-axis refers to an axis in a direction that is 90 degrees ahead of the direction of the magnetic field generated by the rotor. Here, 90 degrees refers not to the mechanical angle of the rotor, but to an electrical angle obtained by converting the angle between adjacent N poles or the angle between adjacent S poles contained in the rotor into 360 degrees.

[0223] The control unit (230) can generate a pulse width modulation signal (VPWM) based on the current (Iabc) detected by the current detection unit (211), the rotational speed (w) of the rotor, and the target voltage (Vabc*) output from the output coordinate transformation unit (235).

[0224] That is, the control unit (230) recognizes a target current to be applied to the motor based on the rotational speed (w) of the motor and the detected current (Iabc), recognizes a target voltage to be applied to the motor (181) based on the recognized target current, and generates a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal (VPWM) based on the recognized target voltage.

[0225] The control unit (230) can control the on / off of the inverter (221) of the drive unit based on the pulse width modulation signal to control the current applied to the motor (181) and cause the motor (181) to rotate at a rotational speed corresponding to the controlled current.

[0226] The control unit (230) can recognize the weight of the laundry cloth and the material of the laundry cloth based on the current of the motor (181) detected by the current detection unit (211) during the rotation control of the motor (181).

[0227] The control unit (230) controls the rotation of the motor (181) at a point before the washing process, at a point after the draining process, and at a point after the spin-drying process, and can recognize the weight of the laundry cloth and the material of the laundry cloth based on the motor current detected by the current detection unit (211) during the rotation of the motor (181).

[0228] Recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth at a point prior to the washing process may include recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth in a dry state.

[0229] Recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth at a point after the drainage process may include recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth in the first wet cloth state. The drainage process here may include at least one of the drainage process by the washing process and the drainage process by the rinsing process.

[0230] Recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth at a point after the spin-drying process may include recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth in the second wet cloth state. The spin-drying process here may include at least one of a spin-drying process by a washing process and a spin-drying process by a rinsing process.

[0231] The second wet cloth state is a state of a laundry cloth that is wet with water remaining on the laundry cloth after the dehydration process is performed, and may be a state in which the amount of moisture contained in the laundry cloth is less than that in the first wet cloth state.

[0232] The configuration of the control unit that recognizes the material of the laundry cloth is described below.

[0233] The control unit (230) can recognize the material of the laundry cloth before performing the washing process.

[0234] The control unit (230) can control a first rotational stroke that rotates the motor (181) at a first set rotational speed, a water supply stroke, and a second rotational stroke that rotates the motor (181) at a second set rotational speed. Here, the first set rotational speed may be faster than the second set rotational speed.

[0235] The control unit (230) can control the rotation of the motor (181) so that the first rotational stroke is performed before the washing stroke.

[0236] The control unit (230) can control the drive unit so that the motor (181) rotates at a first set rotational speed while performing the first rotational stroke. The control unit (230) can recognize the current detected by the current detection unit (211) while performing the first rotational stroke, and recognize the material of the laundry cloth contained in the drum (130) based on the recognized current.

[0237] The control unit (230) can also recognize the ripple current based on the current detected by the current detection unit (211) while performing the first rotational stroke, and recognize the material of the laundry cloth contained in the drum (130) based on the recognized ripple current.

[0238] The recognized ripple current may be any one of the highest ripple current value having the largest value among the ripple current values ​​detected over a certain period of time, the lowest ripple current value having the smallest value, or the average ripple current value of the ripple current values.

[0239] For example, the motor current detected during the first rotational stroke can increase as the material of the laundry cloth becomes finer. That is, the lighter the laundry cloth, the greater the amount of material applied to the lifter (132), so the motor current increases as the material of the laundry cloth becomes finer.

[0240] If the material of the laundry cloth is cotton or a towel, the motor current detected during the first rotational stroke may be smaller than when the material of the laundry cloth is a delicate material.

[0241] Information regarding the material of the laundry cloth corresponding to the current detected during the first rotational stroke may be obtained and stored through experiments.

[0242] As another example, if the material of the laundry cloth is stiff or thick, it is more likely to fall from the lifter (132) in response to the rotation of the drum. That is, if the material of the laundry cloth is stiff or thick, the ripple current may be greater than when the material of the laundry cloth is soft or thin.

[0243] Information regarding the material of the laundry cloth corresponding to the ripple current detected during the first rotational stroke may be obtained and stored through experiments.

[0244] Recognizing the material of the laundry cloth based on the first rotational stroke may include recognizing the material of the laundry cloth when the laundry cloth is in a dry state.

[0245] The control unit (230) can control the water supply device so that a water supply operation is performed when the first rotation operation is completed. The control unit (230) can control the rotation of the motor (181) so that water is supplied to the tub by the water supply operation and the drum is agitated during the water supply operation.

[0246] The control unit (230) can control the rotation of the motor (181) so that a second rotational stroke is performed when the water level of the water supplied to the tub reaches a preset water level.

[0247] The control unit (230) can control the drive unit so that the motor (181) rotates at a second set rotational speed while performing the second rotational stroke.

[0248] The control unit (230) recognizes the current detected by the current detection unit (211) while performing the second rotation stroke, and can recognize the material of the laundry cloth contained in the drum (130) based on the recognized current.

[0249] For example, the current detected by the current detection unit (211) during the second rotation stroke may increase as the material has a higher absorption rate. This is because the higher the absorption rate of the laundry cloth, the greater the lifting torque at the drum lifter (132), and thus the greater the current detected by the current detection unit (211).

[0250] Information regarding the material of the laundry cloth corresponding to the current detected during the second rotation stroke may be obtained and stored through experiments.

[0251] Recognizing the material of the laundry cloth based on the second rotational stroke may include recognizing the material of the laundry cloth when the laundry cloth is in a wet state.

[0252] The control unit (230) can recognize the material of the laundry cloth based on the motor current and ripple current recognized during the first rotational stroke and the motor current recognized during the second rotational stroke.

[0253] The material of the laundry cloth may include at least one of a delicate material, a cotton material, a denim material, a towel material, and an outdoor material.

[0254] Hereinafter, a configuration for recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth at a point before the washing process is described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0255] The control unit (230) can recognize a first weight of the laundry cloth before performing a washing process. The first weight of the laundry cloth may be the weight of the laundry cloth in a dry state.

[0256] The control unit (230) can recognize the first weight of the laundry cloth before recognizing the material of the laundry cloth.

[0257] The control unit (230) can control the drive unit (220) so that current is applied to the motor (181) based on the first weight recognition point. Here, controlling the drive unit (220) may include controlling the inverter (221).

[0258] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the control unit (230) controls the driving unit (220) so that the current applied to the motor (181) gradually increases when controlling the current application to the motor (181), and can control the driving unit (220) so that the current applied to the motor (181) increases up to the target current (Ct).

[0259] The control unit (230) can increase the rotational speed of the motor (181) by controlling the current applied to the motor (181).

[0260] The control unit (230) can recognize the rotational speed of the motor (181) while applying a target current (Ct) to the motor (181).

[0261] The control unit (230) can recognize the position of the rotor based on the current detected by the current detection unit (211) and the target voltage, and can recognize the rotational speed of the motor based on the recognized position of the rotor. Here, the position of the rotor may be the phase angle of the motor (181).

[0262] The control unit (230) recognizes whether the rotational speed of the recognized motor (181) is a reference rotational speed, and if the rotational speed of the recognized motor (181) is a reference rotational speed, recognizes whether the rotational speed of the recognized motor (181) is maintained at the reference rotational speed, and can control the drive unit (220) so that a reference current (Cr) is applied to the motor (181) if the rotational speed of the motor (181) is maintained at the reference rotational speed (Vr). The reference current (Cr) may be a current higher than the target current (Ct).

[0263] When a reference current (Cr) is applied to the motor (181), the control unit (230) recognizes the rotational speed of the motor (181) and recognizes an inertia value based on the recognized rotational speed of the motor (181) and the torque value of the motor, and can recognize a first weight of the laundry cloth based on the recognized inertia value.

[0264] More specifically, the control unit (230) can recognize the torque value of the motor based on a reference current and a torque constant, recognize a reference voltage based on the reference current and the current detected by the current detection unit (211), recognize the position of the rotor based on the current detected by the current detection unit (211) and the reference voltage, and recognize the rotational speed of the motor based on the recognized position of the rotor.

[0265] The torque constant can be information that is pre-set and stored.

[0266] The control unit (230) can recognize a value of change in the rotational speed of the recognized motor when a reference current (Cr) is applied to the motor, and can recognize a value of inertia of the drum containing the laundry cloth based on the value of change in the rotational speed of the motor (dw / dt) and the torque value, and can recognize a first weight of the laundry cloth based on the recognized value of inertia.

[0267] Inertia = Torque / Change in rotational speed

[0268] First weight = Inertia value / Torque value

[0269] The control unit (230) can recognize a first correction value corresponding to a first weight based on the first correction information stored in the memory (232).

[0270] The first correction information may be information for correcting the second weight of the laundry cloth in the first compress state.

[0271] The first correction information may include first correction values ​​matched according to the material of the laundry cloth and the first weight of the laundry cloth.

[0272] The control unit (230) can recognize a second correction value corresponding to the first weight based on the second correction information stored in the memory (232).

[0273] The second correction information may be information for correcting the third weight of the laundry cloth in the second compress state.

[0274] The second correction information may include second correction values ​​matched according to the material of the laundry cloth and the first weight of the laundry cloth.

[0275] The first and second correction information may be information obtained and stored through experiments.

[0276] The control unit (230) can control the drainage process when the washing process is completed, and can recognize that when the drainage process is completed, it is the point in time for recognizing the second weight of the laundry cloth.

[0277] The control unit (230) can control the drive unit (220) so that current is applied to the motor (181) based on the second weight recognition point.

[0278] The control unit (230) can recognize the second weight of the laundry cloth by controlling the current applied to the motor (181) in the same manner as the first weight recognition. The second weight of the laundry cloth may be the weight of the laundry cloth in the first wet cloth state.

[0279] The control unit (230) can correct the recognized second weight based on the recognized first correction value. The control unit (230) can recognize the corrected second weight.

[0280] Looking at the first weight of the laundry cloth in the dry state and the second weight of the laundry cloth in the first wet state shown in Fig. 7, it can be seen that the laundry cloth in the first wet state has a large variation in the second weight depending on the material of the laundry cloth because the moisture content varies depending on the material of the laundry cloth.

[0281] Accordingly, by applying a first correction value to the second weight of the laundry cloth in the first wet cloth state recognized by the material of the laundry cloth, the second weight corrected in the first wet cloth state can be recognized by the material of the laundry cloth. In this way, by applying a correction value corresponding to the wet cloth state, deviations according to the material of the laundry cloth can be reduced and the accuracy of recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth can be improved.

[0282] The control unit (230) can control the dewatering process after the completion of the drainage process and when the second weight recognition is completed, and can recognize that the time for the third weight recognition is when the dewatering process is completed.

[0283] The control unit (230) can control the drive unit (220) so that current is applied to the motor (181) based on the third weight recognition point.

[0284] The control unit (230) can recognize the third weight of the laundry cloth by controlling the current applied to the motor (181) in the same manner as the first weight recognition. The third weight of the laundry cloth may be the weight of the laundry cloth in the second wet cloth state.

[0285] The control unit (230) can correct the third weight of the recognized laundry cloth based on the recognized second correction value. The control unit (230) can recognize the corrected third weight.

[0286] The control unit (230) inputs at least one of the corrected second weight and the corrected third weight and the first weight of the laundry cloth into an artificial intelligence model, and can finally recognize the weight of the laundry cloth through the learning of the artificial intelligence model.

[0287] The control unit (230) can recognize the final weight of the laundry cloth by deriving a regression analysis equation based on the learned data.

[0288] For example, an artificial intelligence model may include SVR (support vector regression), but the artificial intelligence model is not limited to this.

[0289] For example, the control unit (230) inputs the first weight of the laundry cloth and the corrected second weight into an artificial intelligence model, and can finally recognize the weight of the laundry cloth through the learning of the artificial intelligence model.

[0290] As another example, the control unit (230) may input the first weight and the corrected third weight of the laundry cloth into an artificial intelligence model, and finally recognize the weight of the laundry cloth through the learning of the artificial intelligence model.

[0291] As another example, the control unit (230) may input the first weight of the laundry cloth, the corrected second weight, and the corrected third weight into an artificial intelligence model, and finally recognize the weight of the laundry cloth through the learning of the artificial intelligence model.

[0292] The artificial intelligence model can update features stored in the artificial intelligence model based on the first weight, the corrected second weight, and the corrected third weight of the laundry cloth.

[0293] The control unit (230) can control the output interface (192) to output the weight of the laundry cloth that is finally recognized. The output interface may include a display unit (192a).

[0294] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the control unit (230) can control the display unit (192a) to display the final weight of the laundry cloth.

[0295] The control unit (230) can control the display unit (192a) to further display information regarding the amount of water, detergent, and fabric softener used corresponding to the final weight of the laundry cloth.

[0296] As such, the present embodiment can improve the accuracy of weight recognition of a laundry cloth. This will be explained with reference to FIGS. 9 and FIGS. 10.

[0297] FIG. 9 is a graph of the reference weight corresponding to the actual weight of the laundry cloth, the first weight in the dry state, and the corrected second weight.

[0298] The reference weight shown in Fig. 9 is the weight of the laundry cloth detected using a standard specimen.

[0299] It can be seen that the difference between the first weight and the reference weight of the laundry cloth in a dry state increases as the weight of the laundry cloth increases.

[0300] It can be seen that the corrected second weight in the first compress state has a small difference from the reference weight compared to the first weight in the dry state, and shows a pattern similar to the reference weight in response to the increase in the weight of the laundry cloth.

[0301] In this way, the accuracy of weight recognition of the laundry cloth can be improved by using the weight recognition information of the laundry cloth in a wet state.

[0302] Figure 10 is a table of the number of recognized final weights according to the actual weight of the laundry cloth.

[0303] As shown in Fig. 10, when referring to the number of times the actual weight of the laundry cloth matches the finally recognized weight of the laundry cloth (i.e., the final weight), it can be seen that the weight is recognized with an accuracy of ±1kg up to 12kg.

[0304] The washing machine of this embodiment may have a weight recognition resolution of 1 kg or less for the laundry cloth.

[0305] The control unit (230) can control the drainage process when the rinsing process is completed, and it is also possible to recognize the second weight of the laundry cloth in the first wet cloth state when the drainage process is completed.

[0306] The control unit (230) can control the spin-drying process when the second weight of the laundry cloth in the first wet cloth state is recognized, and when the spin-drying process is completed, it is also possible to recognize the third weight of the laundry cloth in the second wet cloth state.

[0307] The control unit (230) can also correct the second weight recognized after the completion of the rinsing process based on the first correction value and correct the third weight based on the second correction value.

[0308] The control unit (230) inputs at least one of the corrected second weight and the corrected third weight and the first weight into an artificial intelligence model after the completion of the rinsing process, and it is also possible to finally recognize the weight of the laundry cloth through the learning of the artificial intelligence model.

[0309] The control unit (230) can also finally recognize the weight of the laundry cloth for each of the multiple rinsing cycles.

[0310] The control unit (230) can control the output interface (192) to output the finally recognized weight of the laundry cloth based on the completion of the washing process and at least one rinsing process. That is, the control unit (230) can control the output interface to output the finally recognized weight of the laundry cloth whenever a process is completed for each process.

[0311] Here, the output interface may include a display unit. That is, the control unit (230) can control the display unit to display the finally recognized weight of the laundry cloth whenever an operation is completed for each operation.

[0312] The control unit (230) may include at least one processor (231) for controlling the operation of the washing machine (1) and at least one memory (232) for storing a program and data for controlling the operation of the washing machine (1).

[0313] At least one processor (231) may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the washing machine (1), at least one memory for storing data in the form of a program, and one or more processor chips that perform the aforementioned operation using the data stored in at least one memory, or one or more processing cores.

[0314] At least one processor (231) can process various data and various signals using instructions, data, programs and / or software stored in memory (232).

[0315] At least one processor (231) may include one or more of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), MIC (Many Integrated Core), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), NPU (Neural Processing Unit), hardware accelerator, or machine learning accelerator.

[0316] The memory (232) can store information about the reference rotational speed, reference current and target current, and can further store information about the torque constant and reference time.

[0317] The memory (232) can store first correction information and second correction information.

[0318] The memory (232) can store information about the material of the laundry cloth corresponding to the current detected in the first rotation stroke and information about the material of the laundry cloth corresponding to the ripple current.

[0319] The memory (232) can store information about the material of the laundry cloth corresponding to the current detected in the second rotation stroke.

[0320] The memory (232) can store information about preset water levels and first and second set rotation speeds.

[0321] The memory (232) can store data required for various embodiments.

[0322] The memory (232) may be implemented in the form of a memory embedded in the washing machine (1) or in the form of a memory that can be attached to and detached from the washing machine (1), depending on the purpose of data storage. For example, data for operating the washing machine (1) may be stored in the memory embedded in the washing machine (1), and data for the expansion function of the washing machine (1) may be stored in the memory that can be attached to and detached from the washing machine (1).

[0323] Meanwhile, the memory embedded in the washing machine (1) can be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (dynamic RAM), SRAM (static RAM), or SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM), non-volatile memory (e.g., OTPROM (one time programmable ROM), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable and programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable ROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD).

[0324] In addition, the memory that can be attached to the washing machine (1) may be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., CF (compact flash), SD (secure digital), Micro-SD (micro secure digital), Mini-SD (mini secure digital), xD (extreme digital), MMC (multi-media card), etc.) or an external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., USB memory), but is not limited thereto.

[0325] The memory (232) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks.

[0326] Functions related to the artificial intelligence model according to the present disclosure are operated through a processor and memory. The processor may be composed of one or more processors. In this case, the one or more processors may be general-purpose processors such as CPUs, APs, and DSPs (Digital Signal Processors), graphics-dedicated processors such as GPUs and VPUs (Vision Processing Units), or artificial intelligence-dedicated processors such as NPUs. The one or more processors control the processing of input data according to predefined operation rules or artificial intelligence models stored in memory. Alternatively, if the one or more processors are artificial intelligence-dedicated processors, the artificial intelligence-dedicated processors may be designed with a hardware structure specialized for processing a specific artificial intelligence model.

[0327] The predefined rules of operation or artificial intelligence models are characterized by being created through learning. Here, being created through learning means that a basic artificial intelligence model is trained using a number of training data by a learning algorithm, thereby creating predefined rules of operation or artificial intelligence models configured to perform desired characteristics (or objectives). Such learning may be performed on the device itself where the artificial intelligence according to the present disclosure is executed, or it may be performed through a separate server and / or system. Examples of learning algorithms include supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but are not limited to the examples described above.

[0328] An artificial intelligence model may be composed of multiple neural network layers. Each of the multiple neural network layers has multiple weight values ​​and performs neural network operations through operations between the results of previous layers and the multiple weights. The multiple weights possessed by the multiple neural network layers can be optimized based on the learning results of the artificial intelligence model. For example, the multiple weights may be updated so that the loss value or cost value obtained from the artificial intelligence model during the learning process is reduced or minimized. Artificial neural networks may include deep neural networks (DNNs), such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), Deep Neural Networks (DNNs), Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), Restricted Boltzmann Machines (RBMs), Deep Belief Networks (DBNs), Bidirectional Recurrent Deep Neural Networks (BRDNNs), or Deep Q-Networks, but are not limited to the examples mentioned above.

[0329] At least one component may be added or removed in response to the performance of the components of the washing machine illustrated in FIGS. 3, 4, and 5. Additionally, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the relative positions of the components may be changed in response to the performance or structure of the washing machine.

[0330] Meanwhile, each component shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 5 refers to software and / or hardware components such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs).

[0331] FIG. 11 is a modified example of a control configuration diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0332] The washing machine (1) may further include a communication unit (240).

[0333] The control unit (230) can control the communication unit (240) to transmit the finally recognized weight of the laundry cloth to an external device (2).

[0334] The communication unit (240) can communicate between internal components of the washing machine (1) or communicate with an external device (2). The external device (2) may include at least one of a home appliance, a user device, and a server.

[0335] The communication unit (240) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel with the washing machine (1), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel.

[0336] The external device (2) may include at least one of a user device, a home appliance, and a server.

[0337] When the external device (2) receives information about the final weight of the laundry cloth through the communication unit (240) of the washing machine (1), it can display the received information about the final weight of the laundry cloth.

[0338] As shown in Fig. 8, the external device (2) can display information about the final weight of the laundry cloth.

[0339] The user device can be implemented as a computer or portable terminal that can connect to the washing machine (1) via a network. Here, the computer includes, for example, a laptop, desktop, laptop, tablet PC, slate PC, etc. equipped with a web browser, and the portable terminal is, for example, a wireless communication device that ensures portability and mobility, and may include all kinds of handheld-based wireless communication devices such as PCS (Personal Communication System), GSM (Global System for Mobile communications), PDC (Personal Digital Cellular), PHS (Personal Handyphone System), PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), IMT (International Mobile Telecommunication)-2000, CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access)-2000, W-CDMA (W-Code Division Multiple Access), WiBro (Wireless Broadband Internet) terminal, smartphone, etc., and wearable devices such as watches, rings, bracelets, anklets, necklaces, glasses, contact lenses, or head-mounted devices (HMDs).

[0340] The home appliance may be at least one of various types of home appliances provided within the home. For example, the home appliance may include a display unit. As an example, the home appliance may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a refrigerator, a dishwasher, an electric range, an electric oven, an air conditioner, a garment care system, a microwave oven, a cleaning robot, a vacuum cleaner, and a television.

[0341] Servers can be implemented as various computing devices, such as workstations, clouds, data drives, and data stations.

[0342] A server may be implemented as one or more servers that are physically or logically separated based on functions, detailed configurations of functions, or data, and can transmit and receive data and process the transmitted and received data through communication between each server.

[0343] The server can manage user accounts, register home appliances such as washing machines associated with user accounts, and perform functions such as managing or controlling the registered home appliances.

[0344] A washing machine according to the present embodiment can recognize the final weight of a laundry cloth based on at least one of a corrected second weight and a corrected third weight and a first weight. The corresponding control sequence is described by classifying it into first, second, and third control sequences.

[0345] FIG. 12 is a first control flowchart of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0346] When the washing machine receives a start operation command through the input interface (191), it can recognize the first weight of the laundry cloth as the point of recognition.

[0347] The washing machine can recognize a first weight of the laundry cloth before performing a washing process (301). Recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth may include recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth in a dry state. The configuration for recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth will be described in more detail.

[0348] Based on the point of recognition of the first weight of the laundry cloth, the washing machine applies a target current to the motor (181), recognizes the phase angle of the motor based on the current detected by the current detection unit (211) and the target voltage while the target current is applied to the motor (181), and recognizes the rotational speed of the motor based on the recognized phase angle of the motor.

[0349] The washing machine can recognize whether the rotational speed of the recognized motor (181) is a reference rotational speed, and can recognize whether the rotational speed of the motor is maintained at the reference rotational speed, and if the rotational speed of the motor is maintained at the reference rotational speed, it can apply a reference current to the motor (181).

[0350] The washing machine can apply a reference current to the motor (181) while the motor (181) rotates once, then recognize a reference voltage based on the reference current and the current detected by the current detection unit (211), recognize the phase angle of the motor based on the current detected by the current detection unit (211) and the reference voltage, recognize the rotational speed of the motor based on the recognized phase angle of the motor, and recognize a change value of the rotational speed of the motor based on the rotational speed of the motor. One rotation of the motor may include a 360-degree rotation.

[0351] The washing machine can recognize the torque value of the motor based on a reference current and a torque constant, recognize the inertia value based on the recognized change value of the motor's rotational speed and the torque value of the motor, and recognize the first weight of the laundry cloth based on the recognized inertia value and torque value.

[0352] Before performing the washing process, the washing machine can recognize the material of the laundry cloth (302).

[0353] Recognizing the material of the laundry cloth may include a first rotational stroke in which the motor (181) is rotated at a first set rotational speed, a water supply stroke, and a second rotational stroke in which the motor (181) is rotated at a second set rotational speed. Here, the first set rotational speed may be faster than the second set rotational speed.

[0354] Explain the configuration for recognizing the material of the laundry cloth in more detail.

[0355] The washing machine can control the rotation of the motor (181) so that the first rotational stroke is performed before the washing stroke.

[0356] The washing machine can control the drive unit (220) so that the motor (181) rotates at a first set rotational speed while performing the first rotational stroke. The washing machine can recognize the current detected by the current detection unit (211) while performing the first rotational stroke.

[0357] The washing machine can recognize ripple current based on the current detected by the current detection unit (211) while performing the first rotational stroke.

[0358] The recognized ripple current may be any one of the highest ripple current value having the largest value among the ripple current values ​​detected over a certain period of time, the lowest ripple current value having the smallest value, or the average ripple current value of the ripple current values.

[0359] The washing machine can control the water supply device so that a water supply process is performed when the first rotational process is completed. The washing machine can control the rotation of the motor (181) so that water is supplied to the tub by the water supply process and the drum is agitated during the water supply process.

[0360] The washing machine can control the rotation of the motor (181) so that a second rotational stroke is performed when the water level detected by the water level sensor reaches a preset water level.

[0361] The washing machine can control the drive unit (220) so that the motor (181) rotates at a second set rotational speed while performing the second rotational stroke.

[0362] The washing machine can recognize the current detected by the current detection unit (211) while performing the second rotation stroke.

[0363] The washing machine can recognize the material of the laundry cloth based on the motor current and ripple current recognized during the first rotational stroke and the motor current recognized during the second rotational stroke.

[0364] The material of the laundry cloth may include at least one of a delicate material, a cotton material, a denim material, a towel material, and an outdoor material.

[0365] The washing machine can control the washing process once the material of the laundry cloth is recognized (303). Controlling the washing process may include controlling the washing process based on the recognized first weight and the material of the laundry cloth.

[0366] Controlling the washing process may include controlling the amount of water supplied and the execution time of the washing process.

[0367] It is also possible to control the washing process based on the water supply amount and washing course received through the input interface.

[0368] The washing machine can control the drainage process when the washing process is completed (304). Controlling the drainage process may include controlling the drainage pump. Controlling the drainage process may further include controlling the opening of the drain valve.

[0369] The washing machine can complete the drainage process based on the water level detected by the water level sensor reaching a preset reference level.

[0370] When the washing machine is finished with the drainage process, it can recognize the second weight of the laundry cloth in the wet state (305).

[0371] Recognizing the second weight of the laundry cloth in a wet state can be the same as recognizing the first weight.

[0372] Recognizing the second weight of a laundry cloth in a wet state may include controlling the current applied to the motor, recognizing the torque value of the motor based on a reference current and a torque constant, recognizing the inertia value based on the recognized change value of the motor's rotational speed and the torque value of the motor, and recognizing the second weight of the laundry cloth based on the recognized inertia value and torque value.

[0373] The washing machine can recognize a first weight of the laundry cloth and a first correction value corresponding to the material of the laundry cloth based on information stored in memory, and correct a second weight based on the recognized first correction value (306).

[0374] The washing machine can input the first weight and the corrected second weight into the artificial intelligence model (307).

[0375] The washing machine can recognize the final weight of the laundry from the learning results of the artificial intelligence model (308).

[0376] The washing machine can output the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth (309).

[0377] Outputting the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth may include displaying it through the display of the output interface.

[0378] Outputting the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth may include transmitting information regarding the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth to an external device capable of communicating with the washing machine. This allows the information regarding the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth to be output through the external device.

[0379] The washing machine can control the spin cycle when the final weight of the laundry cloth is recognized, and can control the rinsing cycle when the spin cycle is completed.

[0380] Controlling the rinsing process may include controlling the amount of water supplied and controlling the rinsing time.

[0381] When the washing machine is completed, it controls the drainage process, and when the drainage process is completed, it additionally recognizes the second weight of the laundry cloth in a wet state, corrects the additionally recognized second weight based on the first correction value, and inputs the additionally corrected second weight and the first weight into an artificial intelligence model to additionally recognize the final weight of the laundry cloth.

[0382] The washing machine can also display the final weight of the additionally recognized laundry cloth through the display.

[0383] For example, the washing machine can delete the final weight of the laundry recognized after the washing cycle and display the final weight of the laundry recognized after the rinsing cycle.

[0384] As another example, the washing machine can also display the final weight of the laundry recognized after the washing cycle and the final weight of the laundry recognized after the rinsing cycle.

[0385] When there are multiple rinse cycles, the washing machine may recognize the final weight of the laundry cloth for each of the multiple rinse cycles, and may also display the recognized final weight of the laundry cloth for each of the multiple rinse cycles.

[0386] It is also possible for the washing machine to control the output interface (192) to recognize a washing course corresponding to the material of the laundry cloth and guide the recognized washing course to a recommended washing course.

[0387] Based on the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth, the washing machine may recognize whether additional washing is required, information on performing a rinsing process and information on performing a spin-drying process, and output the recognized information on whether additional washing is required, information on performing a rinsing process and information on performing a spin-drying process through an output interface (192).

[0388] The washing machine can recognize whether to adjust the rinsing process based on the recognized rinsing process execution information and the preset rinsing process execution information, and if it recognizes that adjustment of the rinsing process is necessary, it can output the rinsing process adjustment suggestion information through the output interface (192).

[0389] The pre-set rinsing execution information may include rinsing execution information received through the input interface (191), and may include rinsing execution information recognized by the first weight and the material of the laundry cloth.

[0390] The washing machine can recognize whether to adjust the spin cycle based on the recognized spin cycle execution information and the preset spin cycle execution information, and if it recognizes that adjustment of the spin cycle is necessary, it can output spin cycle adjustment suggestion information through the output interface (192).

[0391] The pre-set dehydration execution information may include dehydration execution information received through the input interface (191), and may include dehydration execution information recognized by the first weight and the material of the laundry cloth.

[0392] If the washing machine recognizes that additional washing is required during the washing cycle, it is also possible to output information regarding the additional washing time and amount of detergent to be used.

[0393] The washing machine may also output information about the amount of fabric softener to be used as recommendation information through the output interface (192) based on the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth.

[0394] The washing machine can automatically adjust the execution information for the remaining cycle based on the recognized final weight of the laundry cloth, and it is also possible to control the remaining cycle based on the adjusted execution information.

[0395] This embodiment can reduce water usage and energy consumption by improving the performance of recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth, and can also improve the accuracy of various washing machine operations.

[0396] FIG. 13 is a second control flowchart of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0397] When the washing machine receives a start operation command through the input interface (191), it can recognize the first weight of the laundry cloth as the point of recognition.

[0398] The washing machine can recognize a first weight of the laundry cloth before performing a washing process (311). Recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth may include recognizing the weight of the laundry cloth in a dry state. The method for recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth is the same as the method for recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth in the first control sequence, so the description is omitted.

[0399] Before performing the washing process, the washing machine can recognize the material of the laundry cloth (312).

[0400] The method for recognizing the material of the laundry cloth is the same as the method for recognizing the material of the laundry cloth in the first control sequence, so the explanation is omitted.

[0401] The washing machine can control the washing process once the material of the laundry cloth is recognized (313). Controlling the washing process may include controlling the washing process based on the recognized first weight and the material of the laundry cloth.

[0402] Controlling the washing process may include controlling the amount of water supplied and the execution time of the washing process.

[0403] It is also possible to control the washing process based on the water supply amount and washing course received through the input interface.

[0404] The washing machine can control the drainage process when the washing process is completed (314). Controlling the drainage process may include controlling the drainage pump. Controlling the drainage process may further include controlling the opening of the drain valve.

[0405] The washing machine can complete the drainage process based on the water level detected by the water level sensor reaching a preset reference level.

[0406] The washing machine can control the spin cycle once the drainage cycle is completed (315).

[0407] The washing machine can complete the spin cycle when the spin cycle time reaches the standard spin cycle time.

[0408] The washing machine can recognize the third weight of the laundry cloth in the wet state (316). To distinguish it from the second weight in the first control sequence, the weight in the wet state in the second control sequence is recorded as the third weight.

[0409] The method for recognizing the third weight of a laundry cloth in a wet state may be the same as the method for recognizing the first weight.

[0410] Recognizing the third weight of a laundry cloth in a wet state may include controlling the current applied to the motor, recognizing the torque value of the motor based on a reference current and a torque constant, recognizing the inertia value based on the recognized change value of the motor's rotational speed and the torque value of the motor, and recognizing the third weight of the laundry cloth based on the recognized inertia value and torque value.

[0411] The washing machine recognizes a first weight of the laundry cloth and a second correction value corresponding to the material of the laundry cloth based on information stored in memory, and can correct a recognized third weight based on the recognized second correction value (317). To distinguish it from the first correction value in the first control sequence, the correction value in the second control sequence is recorded as the second correction value.

[0412] The washing machine can input the first weight and the corrected third weight into the artificial intelligence model (318).

[0413] The washing machine can recognize the final weight of the laundry from the learning results of the artificial intelligence model (319).

[0414] The washing machine can output the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth (320).

[0415] Outputting the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth may include displaying it through the display of the output interface.

[0416] Outputting the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth may include transmitting information regarding the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth to an external device capable of communicating with the washing machine. This allows the information regarding the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth to be output through the external device.

[0417] The washing machine can control the rinsing process when the final weight of the laundry cloth is recognized, and can control the draining process when the rinsing process is completed.

[0418] In other words, the washing machine can control the remaining process so that the remaining process is performed once the final weight of the laundry cloth is recognized.

[0419] After the rinsing cycle is completed, and after the draining cycle and spin cycle are completed, the washing machine can additionally recognize a third weight of the laundry cloth in a wet state, correct the additionally recognized third weight based on a second correction value, and input the additionally corrected third weight and the first weight into an artificial intelligence model to additionally recognize the final weight of the laundry cloth.

[0420] The washing machine can also display the final weight of the additionally recognized laundry cloth through the display.

[0421] For example, the washing machine can delete the final weight of the laundry recognized after the washing cycle and display the final weight of the laundry recognized after the rinsing cycle.

[0422] As another example, the washing machine can also display the final weight of the laundry recognized after the washing cycle and the final weight of the laundry recognized after the rinsing cycle.

[0423] When there are multiple rinse cycles, the washing machine may recognize the final weight of the laundry cloth for each of the multiple rinse cycles, and may also display the recognized final weight of the laundry cloth for each of the multiple rinse cycles.

[0424] The washing machine can automatically adjust the execution information for the remaining cycle based on the recognized final weight of the laundry cloth, and it is also possible to control the remaining cycle based on the adjusted execution information.

[0425] FIG. 14 is a third control flowchart of a washing machine according to an embodiment.

[0426] When the washing machine receives a start operation command through the input interface (191), it can recognize the first weight of the laundry cloth as the point of recognition.

[0427] Before performing the washing process, the washing machine can recognize the weight of the laundry cloth in a dry state (331). The method for recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth is the same as the method for recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth in the first control flowchart, so the explanation is omitted.

[0428] Before performing the washing process, the washing machine can recognize the material of the laundry cloth (332).

[0429] The method for recognizing the material of the laundry cloth is the same as the method for recognizing the material of the laundry cloth in the first control flowchart, so the explanation is omitted.

[0430] The washing machine can control the washing process once the material of the laundry cloth is recognized (333). Controlling the washing process may include controlling the washing process based on the recognized first weight and the material of the laundry cloth.

[0431] Controlling the washing process may include controlling the amount of water supplied and the execution time of the washing process.

[0432] It is also possible to control the washing process based on the water supply amount and washing course received through the input interface.

[0433] The washing machine can control the drainage process when the washing process is completed (334). Controlling the drainage process may include controlling the drainage pump. Controlling the drainage process may further include controlling the opening of the drain valve.

[0434] The washing machine can complete the drainage process based on the water level detected by the water level sensor reaching a preset reference level.

[0435] When the washing machine is finished with the drainage process, it can recognize the second weight of the laundry cloth in the first wet cloth state (335).

[0436] The method for recognizing the second weight of the laundry cloth in the first compress state may be the same as the method for recognizing the first weight.

[0437] The washing machine can recognize a first weight of the laundry cloth and a first correction value corresponding to the material of the laundry cloth based on information stored in memory, and correct a second weight based on the recognized first correction value (336).

[0438] The washing machine can control the spin cycle once the second weight of the laundry cloth is recognized (337).

[0439] The washing machine can complete the spin cycle when the spin cycle time reaches the standard spin cycle time.

[0440] When the spin cycle is completed, the washing machine can recognize the third weight of the laundry cloth in the second wet state (338). The method for recognizing the third weight of the laundry cloth in the second wet state may be the same as the method for recognizing the first weight.

[0441] The washing machine can recognize a first weight of the laundry cloth and a second correction value corresponding to the material of the laundry cloth based on information stored in memory, and can correct a third weight based on the recognized second correction value (339).

[0442] The washing machine can input the first weight, the corrected second weight, and the corrected third weight into the artificial intelligence model (340).

[0443] The washing machine can recognize the final weight of the laundry from the learning results of the artificial intelligence model (341).

[0444] The washing machine can output the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth (342).

[0445] Outputting the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth may include displaying it through the display of the output interface.

[0446] Outputting the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth may include transmitting information regarding the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth to an external device capable of communicating with the washing machine. This allows the information regarding the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth to be output through the external device.

[0447] The washing machine can control the rinsing process when the final weight of the laundry cloth is recognized, and can control the draining process when the rinsing process is completed.

[0448] When the drainage process is completed after the rinsing process, the washing machine can additionally recognize the second weight of the laundry cloth in the first wet cloth state and additionally correct the second weight based on the first correction value.

[0449] When the spin cycle is completed after the rinsing cycle, the washing machine additionally recognizes the third weight of the laundry cloth in the second wet cloth state, corrects the additionally recognized third weight based on the second correction value, and inputs the additionally corrected second weight, the additionally corrected third weight, and the first weight into an artificial intelligence model to additionally recognize the final weight of the laundry cloth.

[0450] The washing machine can also display the final weight of the additionally recognized laundry cloth through the display.

[0451] When there are multiple rinse cycles, the washing machine may recognize the final weight of the laundry cloth for each of the multiple rinse cycles, and may also display the recognized final weight of the laundry cloth for each of the multiple rinse cycles.

[0452] The washing machine can automatically adjust the execution information for the remaining cycle based on the recognized final weight of the laundry cloth, and it is also possible to control the remaining cycle based on the adjusted execution information.

[0453] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a storage 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, they may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments.

[0454] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory storage medium' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily. For example, a 'non-transitory storage medium' may include a buffer in which data is stored temporarily.

[0455] Methods according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as part of a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., download or upload) through 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., downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0456] 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. A drum for holding laundry cloths; A motor that rotates the above drum; A current detection unit for detecting the current flowing through the above motor; and A washing machine comprising a control unit that recognizes a first weight and material of the laundry cloth based on the detected current when the motor rotates before the washing process, recognizes a second weight of the laundry cloth based on the detected current when the motor rotates after the washing process, recognizes a correction value corresponding to the first weight and material of the laundry cloth, corrects the second weight based on the recognized correction value, and recognizes the final weight of the laundry cloth based on the corrected second weight and the first weight.

2. In paragraph 1, the control unit is, A washing machine that recognizes the second weight of the laundry cloth when the drainage process is completed after the washing process or rinsing process.

3. In paragraph 1, the control unit is, A washing machine that recognizes the second weight of the laundry cloth when the spin cycle is completed after the washing cycle or rinsing cycle.

4. In paragraph 1, the control unit is, A washing machine that, after the washing process, recognizes a second weight of the laundry cloth when the draining process is completed, controls a spin-drying process when the draining process is completed, recognizes a third weight of the laundry cloth when the spin-drying process is completed, recognizes a second correction value corresponding to the first weight and the material of the laundry cloth, corrects the third weight based on the recognized second correction value, and recognizes the final weight of the laundry cloth based on the corrected second weight, the corrected third weight, and the first weight.

5. In paragraph 1, the control unit is, A washing machine that inputs the corrected second weight and the first weight into an artificial intelligence model and recognizes the final weight of the laundry cloth based on the learning result of the artificial intelligence model.

6. In paragraph 1, the control unit is, A washing machine that recognizes a change in rotational speed of the motor based on the detected current and the reference voltage applied to the motor while applying a reference current to the motor, recognizes a torque value of the motor based on the reference current and the torque constant, and recognizes the first and second weights of the laundry cloth based on the recognized change in rotational speed and the torque value.

7. In Paragraph 1, It further includes a water supply device that supplies water to the drum above, and A washing machine in which the control unit recognizes the current and ripple current detected by the current detection unit during the first rotational stroke before the washing stroke, controls the water supply device when the first rotational stroke is completed, recognizes the current detected by the current detection unit during the second rotational stroke when the water supply is completed, and recognizes the material of the laundry cloth based on at least one of the current, ripple current, and the current recognized during the first rotational stroke.

8. In Paragraph 1, An output interface that outputs information regarding the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth; and A washing machine further comprising at least one communication unit that transmits information regarding the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth to an external device.

9. Recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth contained in the drum and the material of the laundry cloth based on the current detected by the current detection unit when the motor rotates prior to the washing process, and Recognizing a first correction value and a second correction value corresponding to the first weight and the material of the laundry cloth, After the drainage stroke, when the motor rotates, the second weight of the laundry cloth is recognized based on the current detected by the current detection unit, and Correcting the second weight based on the above-recognized first correction value, and After the spin cycle, when the motor rotates, the third weight of the laundry cloth is recognized based on the current detected by the current detection unit, and Correcting the third weight based on the recognized second correction value, and Recognizing the final weight of the laundry cloth based on at least one of the corrected second weight and the corrected third weight and the first weight, and A control method for a washing machine that outputs information about the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth through an output interface.

10. In Paragraph 9, the above drainage administration is, A method for controlling a washing machine comprising at least one of a drainage administration for the washing administration and a drainage administration for the rinsing administration.

11. In Paragraph 9, the above dehydration process is, A method for controlling a washing machine comprising at least one of a spin-drying process for the washing process and a spin-drying process for the rinsing process.

12. In paragraph 9, recognizing the final weight of the laundry cloth is, A method for controlling a washing machine comprising inputting at least one of the corrected second weight and the corrected third weight and the first weight into an artificial intelligence model, and recognizing the final weight of the laundry cloth based on the learning result of the artificial intelligence model.

13. In paragraph 9, recognizing the first weight of the laundry cloth is, While applying a reference current to the motor, the change value of the rotational speed of the motor is recognized based on the current detected by the current detection unit and the reference voltage applied to the motor, and Recognizing the torque value of the motor based on the above reference current and torque constant, A control method for a washing machine comprising recognizing a first weight of the laundry cloth based on the change value of the recognized rotational speed and the torque value.

14. In paragraph 9, recognizing the material of the laundry cloth is, Before the washing process above, the current and ripple current detected by the current detection unit during the first rotation process are recognized, and When the above first rotational stroke is completed, the water supply device is controlled to supply water to the drum, and When the water supply is completed, the current detected by the current detection unit during the second rotation stroke is recognized, and A control method for a washing machine comprising recognizing the material of the laundry cloth based on at least one of the current recognized during the first rotational stroke, the ripple current, and the current recognized during the second rotational stroke.

15. In Paragraph 9, Based on the final weight of the laundry cloth recognized above, information regarding the amount of detergent and water supply is provided, and A method for controlling a washing machine that further includes changing the execution information of the remaining process based on the final weight of the recognized laundry cloth.

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