Washing machine and control method therefor

Abstract

A washing machine is disclosed. The washing machine comprises: a motor for rotating a drum; a current sensor for detecting a current flowing in the motor; a vibration sensor memory for detecting vibration of the drum; and at least one processor, which rotates, for an operation of spin-drying laundry contained in the drum, the motor at a first rotational speed, obtains an imbalance value corresponding to the degree of imbalance of the laundry on the basis of the current detected through the current sensor while the motor rotates at the first rotational speed, rotates the motor at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed when the imbalance value does not exceed an imbalance limit value, obtains a vibration value of the drum by using the vibration sensor while the motor rotates at the second rotational speed, and updates the imbalance limit value on the basis of the vibration value and a predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the imbalance value.

Description

Washing machine and its control method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine and a method for controlling the same, and more specifically, to a washing machine and a method for controlling the same that updates an unbalance limit value.

[0002] A washing machine is a machine that cleans laundry items such as clothes, towels, and bedding. Washing machines can wash laundry through multiple stages. When a washing machine performs the spin cycle, vibration or noise may occur if the laundry is not evenly distributed. To prevent this, manufacturers can control the level of vibration or noise through an unbalance limit value. However, since the unbalance limit value is set during manufacturing, there is a problem in that it fails to reflect the characteristics of washing machines with varying performance capabilities, even within the same model.

[0003] The information described above may be provided as related art for the purpose of aiding understanding of the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the foregoing may be applied as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] Aspects of the present disclosure address at least the problems and / or disadvantages mentioned above and provide at least one advantage described below. Accordingly, one aspect of the present disclosure provides a washing machine and a method for controlling the same that updates an unbalance limit value.

[0005] Additional aspects will be presented in part in the following detailed description, and may become apparent in part from the description or through the practice of the presented embodiments.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine is provided. The washing machine comprises a motor configured to rotate the drum, a current sensor configured to detect a current flowing through the motor, a vibration sensor configured to detect vibration of the drum, and a memory comprising one or more storage media for storing instructions, and a processing circuitry, and may include at least one processor communicately connected to the motor, the current sensor, the vibration sensor and the memory. When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine may rotate the motor at a first rotational speed for a spin cycle of the laundry contained in the drum, obtain an unbalance value corresponding to the degree of imbalance of the laundry based on the current detected through the current sensor while the motor is rotating at the first rotational speed, and if the unbalance value does not exceed an unbalance limit value, rotate the motor at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed, obtain a vibration value of the drum using the vibration sensor while the motor is rotating at the second rotational speed, and update the unbalance limit value based on the vibration value and the predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the unbalance value.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for controlling a washing machine is provided. The control method may include the steps of: rotating a motor configured to rotate the drum at a first rotational speed for a spin cycle of laundry contained in the drum; obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to the degree of imbalance of the laundry based on a current detected through a current sensor configured to detect a current flowing through the motor while the motor is rotating at the first rotational speed; if the unbalance value does not exceed an unbalance limit value, rotating the motor at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed; obtaining a vibration value of the drum using a vibration sensor configured to detect vibration of the drum while the motor is rotating at the second rotational speed; and updating the unbalance limit value based on the vibration value and a predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the unbalance value.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a non-transient computer-readable recording medium is provided for storing instructions for the washing machine to perform an operation when executed individually or collectively by at least one processor of the washing machine including the drum. The operation may include a method of rotating a motor configured to rotate the drum at a first rotational speed for a spin-drying operation of laundry contained in the drum; a method of obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to the degree of imbalance of the laundry based on a current detected by a current sensor configured to detect a current flowing through the motor while the motor is rotating at the first rotational speed; a method of rotating the motor at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed if the unbalance value does not exceed an unbalance limit value; a method of obtaining a vibration value of the drum using a vibration sensor configured to detect vibration of the drum while the motor is rotating at the second rotational speed; and a method of updating the unbalance limit value based on the vibration value and a predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the unbalance value.

[0009] Other aspects, advantages, and key features of the present disclosure may become apparent to a person skilled in the art from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0010] In relation to the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the appearance of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of a side cross-section of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the specific configuration of the washing machine of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation in which a washing machine updates an unbalance limit value according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the steps of a dehydration process according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIGS. 7a and 7b are drawings illustrating an example of laundry distribution attached to the inner wall of a washing machine drum during a low-speed rotation stage according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation in which a washing machine acquires an unbalance value during a low-speed rotation step according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a graph showing the relationship between an unbalance value and a vibration value according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 10 is an example of a graph showing the relationship between an unbalance value and a vibration value according to a difference in characteristics of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation to update an unbalance limit value of a washing machine corresponding to a first graph according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 12 is a graph showing the distribution of unbalance values ​​according to a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0023] The same reference numerals may be used throughout the drawing to indicate identical or similar components, features, and structures.

[0024] The following description, with reference to the attached drawings, is provided to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the various embodiments of the present disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. While this description includes various specific details to aid such understanding, they should be considered merely illustrative. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications are possible to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Additionally, for the sake of clarity and brevity, descriptions of known functions and structures may be omitted.

[0025] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their dictionary meanings but are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the present disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0026] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, singular expressions such as "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include plural objects. Thus, for example, a reference to "a component surface" includes a reference to one or more of the corresponding surfaces.

[0027] 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.

[0028] The term "and / or" includes a combination of multiple related described components or any of the multiple related described components.

[0029] 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).

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] A washing machine according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spin-drying, and drying operations. A washing machine is an example of a clothing processing device, and a clothing processing device is a concept that encompasses a device for washing clothing (clothing to be washed, clothing to be dried), a device for drying clothing, and a device capable of performing both washing and drying of clothing.

[0035] Washing machines according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for loading or unloading laundry is provided to face upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet is provided to face forward. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with loading methods other than top-loading washing machines and front-loading washing machines.

[0036] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed using a water flow generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, laundry can be washed by rotating the drum to repeatedly raise and lower the laundry. A front-loading washing machine may include a washing machine capable of drying laundry contained inside the drum. The washing machine capable of drying may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensation device for removing moisture from the air discharged from the drum. As an example, the washing machine capable of drying may include a heat pump device. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines with washing methods other than those described above.

[0037] A washing machine according to various embodiments may include a housing that accommodates various components inside. The housing may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry input opening formed on one side.

[0038] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing a laundry input. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by means of a hinge. At least one part of the door may be made transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing is visible.

[0039] The washing machine may include a tub provided inside the housing to store water. The tub is provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be positioned inside the housing such that the tub opening corresponds to the laundry inlet.

[0040] 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.

[0041] The washing machine may include a drum designed to accommodate laundry.

[0042] The drum may be positioned inside the tub such that a drum opening provided on one side corresponds to a laundry inlet and a tub opening. Laundry may pass through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening in sequence to be received inside the drum or withdrawn from the drum.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] The washing machine may include a communication module for communicating with an external device via wired and / or wireless means.

[0049] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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).

[0052] 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.

[0053] The long-distance communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0054] In one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices, such as a server, 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).

[0055] 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 rotational speed of the drum or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the tub.

[0056] 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.

[0057] It should be understood that the blocks of each flowchart and combinations of flowcharts may be executed by one or more computer programs containing computer-executable instructions. The entirety of the one or more computer programs may be stored in a single memory device, or the one or more computer programs may be divided so that their different parts are stored in multiple different memory devices.

[0058] Any function or operation described in this specification may be processed by a single processor or a combination of processors. The single processor or combination of processors is a circuit that performs processing and includes an application processor (AP, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)), a communication processor (CP, e.g., a modem), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural network processing unit (NPU) (e.g., an artificial intelligence (AI) chip), a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) chip, a Bluetooth chip, a global positioning system (GPS) chip, a near-field communication (NFC) chip, a connectivity chip, a sensor controller, a touch controller, a fingerprint sensor controller, a display driver integrated circuit (IC), an audio codec chip, a universal serial bus (USB) controller, a camera controller, an image processing IC, a microprocessor unit (MPU), a system-on-chip (SoC), an integrated circuit (IC), or a similar circuit.

[0059] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining the appearance of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 1, the washing machine (100) may include a housing (10) (or cabinet) that accommodates various components inside. The housing (10) may be provided in the form of a box with a laundry input opening formed on one side.

[0061] The washing machine (100) may include a door (11) for opening and closing a laundry input opening. The door (11) may be rotatably mounted to the housing (10) by a hinge. At least a portion of the door (11) may be made transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing (10) is visible.

[0062] The washing machine (100) may include a tub (20) provided inside the housing (10) to store water. The tub (20) may be provided in a roughly cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side, and may be placed inside the housing (10) such that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet.

[0063] The tub (20) can be connected to the housing (10) by a damper. The damper can absorb vibrations generated when the drum (30) rotates and attenuate vibrations transmitted to the housing (10).

[0064] A washing machine (100) may include a drum (30) provided to accommodate laundry. The drum (30) may be positioned inside a tub (20) such that a drum opening provided on one side corresponds to a laundry inlet and a tub opening. Laundry may pass through the laundry inlet, the tub opening, and the drum opening in sequence to be accommodated inside the drum (30) or withdrawn from the drum (30).

[0065] The drum (30) can rotate inside the tub and perform each operation according to washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying cycles. A plurality of through holes are formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum (30) so that water stored in the tub (20) can flow into the interior of the drum (30) or flow out of the drum (30).

[0066] The washing machine (100) may include a control panel (60) disposed on one side of the housing. The control panel (60) may provide a user interface for the user to interact with the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface (e.g., input interface (370) of FIG. 4) and at least one output interface (e.g., output interface (380) of FIG. 4).

[0067] If the washing machine (100) is a washing machine that also serves as a dryer, the washing machine (100) can perform drying of the laundry after performing washing and rinsing.

[0068] Specifically, the washing machine (100) can control the motor (e.g., 330 in FIG. 3) to the ON state when the drying process begins. The motor may be referred to as a drive motor or a drum motor. The ON state may mean a state in which a preset drive current is supplied to the motor.

[0069] Additionally, the washing machine (100) can provide hot air to the drum (30) using a hot air supply device. The hot air supply device may be described as a heater.

[0070] Additionally, the washing machine (100) may be equipped with a blower fan to generate hot air flow. By operating a motor that simultaneously drives the drum (30) and the blower fan, the hot air circulates through the drum (30) and the airflow path, thereby drying the laundry.

[0071] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating an example of a side cross-section of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 2, the washing machine (100) may further include a tub (120, e.g., tub (20) of FIG. 1), a drum (130, e.g., drum (30) of FIG. 1), a driving unit (140), a water supply unit (150), a drainage unit (160), and a detergent supply unit (170) housed within a housing (e.g., housing (10) of FIG. 1). The washing machine (100) of FIG. 2 may be the washing machine of FIG. 1.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the tub (120) is provided inside the cabinet (101) and can contain water for washing and / or rinsing. The tub (120) may include tub front parts (121) with an opening formed at the front and tub rear parts (122) in the shape of a cylinder with a closed rear. An opening may be provided at the front of the tub front parts (121) for inserting laundry into a drum (130) provided within the tub (120) or for withdrawing laundry from the drum (130). A bearing (122a) for rotatably securing a motor (141) may be provided on the rear wall of the tub rear parts (122).

[0074] According to one embodiment, a drum (130) is rotatably provided inside a tub (120) and can accommodate laundry. The drum (130) may include a cylindrical drum body (131), a drum front part (132) provided at the front of the drum body (131), and a drum rear part (133) provided at the rear of the drum body (131). On the inner surface of the drum body (131), a through hole (131a) connecting the interior of the drum (130) and the interior of the tub (120) and a lifter (131b) for lifting laundry to the top of the drum (130) during rotation of the drum (130) may be provided. An opening (132a) for inserting laundry into the drum (130) or withdrawing laundry from the drum (130) may be provided in the drum front part (132). The drum rear part (133) can be connected to the shaft (141a) of the motor (141) that rotates the drum (130).

[0075] According to one embodiment, the driving unit (140) may include a motor (141) that rotates the drum (130). The motor (141) is provided on the outside of the tub rear part (122) of the tub (120) and may be connected to the drum rear part (133) of the drum (130) through a shaft (141a). The shaft (141a) penetrates the tub rear part (122) and may also be rotatably supported by a bearing (122a) provided in the tub rear part (122).

[0076] The motor (141) may include a stator (141) fixed to the outside of the tub rear part (122) and a rotor (143) rotatably provided and connected to a shaft (141a). The rotor (143) may rotate through magnetic interaction with the stator (142), and the rotation of the rotor (143) may be transmitted to the drum (130) through the shaft (141a).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the water supply unit (150) can supply water to the tub (120) / drum (130). The water supply unit (150) may include a water supply conduit (151) connected to an external water supply source to supply water to the tub (120), and a water supply valve (152) provided on the water supply conduit (151). The water supply conduit (151) is provided on the upper side of the tub (120) and may extend from the external water supply source to a detergent container (171). Water may be guided through the detergent container (171) to the tub (120). The water supply valve (152) may allow or block the supply of water from the external water supply source to the tub (120) in response to an electrical signal. The water supply valve (152) may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the drainage unit (160) can discharge water contained in the tub (120) and / or drum (130) to the outside. The drainage unit (160) includes a drainage conduit (161) provided below the tub (120) and extending from the tub (120) to the outside of the cabinet (101), and a drainage pump (162) provided on the drainage conduit (161). The drainage pump (162) can pump water from the drainage conduit (161) to the outside of the cabinet (101).

[0079] According to one embodiment, the detergent supply unit (170) can supply detergent to the tub (120) / drum (130). The detergent supply unit (170) may include a detergent container (171) for storing detergent, which is provided on the upper side of the tub (120), and a mixing conduit (172) connecting the detergent container (171) to the tub (120). The detergent container (171) is connected to a water supply conduit (151), and water supplied through the water supply conduit (151) can be mixed with the detergent in the detergent container (171). The mixture of detergent and water can be supplied to the tub (120) through the mixing conduit (172).

[0080] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 3, the washing machine (300) may include at least one processor (310) (hereinafter referred to as processor (310)), at least one memory (320) (hereinafter referred to as memory (320)), a motor (330), and a sensor (340). The washing machine (300) shown in FIG. 3 may be the washing machine (100) of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. The motor (330) may perform the same function by being implemented substantially identically to the motor (141) of FIG. 3. In describing the components of the washing machine (300) of FIG. 3, details that overlap with those described in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 will be omitted.

[0082] The processor (310) can control the overall operation of the washing machine (300). Specifically, the processor (310) can control the overall operation of the washing machine (300) by being connected to each component of the washing machine (300). For example, the processor (310) can control the operation of the washing machine (300) by being electrically connected to the sensor (340) and the memory (320). The processor (310) 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. The processor (310) can control one or any combination of other components of the washing machine (300) and can perform operations or data processing related to communication. The processor (310) can execute one or more programs or instructions stored in the memory of the washing machine (300) (e.g., 110 in FIG. 2). For example, the processor (310) can perform a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure by executing one or more instructions stored in the memory (320).

[0083] When a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by a single processor or by a plurality of processors. For example, when a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed by a method according to one embodiment, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation may all be performed by a first processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by a first processor (e.g., a general-purpose processor) and the third operation may be performed by a second processor (e.g., an artificial intelligence dedicated processor).

[0084] The processor (310) may be implemented as a single-core processor including one core, or as one or more multi-core processors including multiple cores (e.g., homogeneous multi-core or heterogeneous multi-core). When at least one processor (310) is implemented as a multi-core processor, each of the multiple cores included in the multi-core processor may include internal processor memory such as cache memory or on-chip memory, and a common cache shared by multiple cores may be included in the multi-core processor. Additionally, each of the multiple cores included in the multi-core processor (or some of the multiple cores) may independently read and execute program instructions for implementing a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, or all (or some) of the multiple cores may be linked together to read and execute program instructions for implementing a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] When a method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a plurality of operations, the plurality of operations may be performed by one of the plurality of cores included in a multi-core processor, or may be performed by a plurality of cores. For example, when a first operation, a second operation, and a third operation are performed by a method according to one embodiment, the first operation, the second operation, and the third operation may all be performed by a first core included in a multi-core processor, or the first operation and the second operation may be performed by a first core included in a multi-core processor and the third operation may be performed by a second core included in a multi-core processor.

[0086] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, a processor may mean a system-on-chip (SoC) in which one or more processors and other electronic components are integrated, a single-core processor, a multi-core processor, or a core included in a single-core processor or a multi-core processor, wherein the core may be implemented as a CPU, GPU, APU, MIC, DSP, NPU, hardware accelerator, or machine learning accelerator, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0087] The memory (320) may include a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), a non-volatile memory including at least one of ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk, and a volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or SRAM (Static Random Access Memory).

[0088] Specifically, various software modules for operating the washing machine (300) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be stored in the memory (320), and at least one processor (310) may control the operation of the washing machine (300) by executing the various software modules stored in the memory (320). For example, the memory (320) is accessed by at least one processor (310), and reading / writing / modifying / deleting / updating of data by at least one processor (310) may be performed.

[0089] Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, the term memory (320) may be used to include memory (320), ROM, RAM, or a memory card (e.g., micro SD card, memory stick) mounted in the washing machine (300) within at least one processor (310).

[0090] In addition, various information necessary within the scope of achieving the purpose of the present disclosure may be stored in the memory (320), and the information stored in the memory (320) may be updated as it is received from an external device or input by a user.

[0091] The motor (330) can be driven based on a drive control signal generated by the processor (310). The motor (330) can transmit a driving force that generates current to the drum (30). The motor (330) may include, for example, a brushless direct current motor (BLDC Motor) or a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) which allows for easy control of rotational speed.

[0092] The sensor (340) may include a current sensor (341) and a vibration sensor (342).

[0093] The current sensor (341) may be configured to detect the current flowing through the motor (330). An electrical signal regarding the current value of the motor (330) generated by the current sensor (341) may be transmitted to the processor (310).

[0094] A vibration sensor (342) may be placed on the outer surface of the drum (30) to detect vibrations of the drum (30). For example, the vibration sensor (342) may include an accelerometer sensor or a displacement measuring sensor. The vibration sensor (342) may detect vibrations while the drum (30) is rotating. As an example, the vibration sensor (342) may be an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) sensor (or inertial measurement device). The IMU sensor may be configured to measure acceleration corresponding to linear motion and angular velocity corresponding to rotational motion for each of the x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis.

[0095] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the specific configuration of the washing machine of FIG. 3 according to one embodiment.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 4, the washing machine (300) may include a processor (310), memory (320), drive unit (325), sensor (340), drainage unit (350), water supply unit (360), input interface (370), output interface (380), and communication interface (390).

[0097] However, such configurations are exemplary, and it is understood that in carrying out the present disclosure, new configurations may be added or some configurations may be omitted in addition to such configurations. Meanwhile, detailed descriptions of configurations shown in FIG. 4 that overlap with configurations shown in FIG. 1 to 3 will be omitted.

[0098] The driving unit (325) may include a motor (330) and a driving circuit (335).

[0099] The driving circuit (335) can supply a driving current to the motor (330) to drive the motor (330) in response to a driving signal from the processor (310). The driving circuit (200) may include a rectifier circuit that rectifies AC power from an external power source (ES), a DC link circuit that removes ripple from the rectified power and outputs DC power, an inverter circuit that converts the DC power into driving power in the form of a sinusoidal wave and outputs a driving current (Iabc) to the motor (330), a current sensor (341) that measures the driving current (Iabc) supplied to the drum motor (330), a driving control unit that controls the driving power conversion of the inverter circuit, and a gate driver that turns on / off switching circuits (Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, Q5, Q6) included in the inverter circuit based on the driving signal of the driving control unit. The driving circuit (335) can supply driving current to the motor (330) according to the motor control signal (e.g., rotational speed command) of the processor (310).

[0100] The sensor (340) may include a current sensor (341), a vibration sensor (342), a speed sensor (343), a door sensor (344), and a temperature sensor (345).

[0101] The speed sensor (343) can detect the rotational speed, rotation angle, or rotation direction of the motor (330) or the drum (30). For example, the speed sensor (343) can detect the rotational speed of the motor through an electrical signal generated based on the rotation of a magnet located on the shaft of the motor (330) while the motor (330) is driven. For example, the speed sensor (343) can use a method of measuring the magnitude of the current applied to the motor (330) during the rotation of the drum (30).

[0102] The door sensor (344) can identify whether the door (11) is open or closed. For example, the washing machine (300) can identify whether the door (11) is open or closed by using a switch mechanically connected to the door (110).

[0103] The temperature sensor (345) can detect the ambient temperature of the washing machine (300) or the temperature of internal components, or the temperature of the washing water in the tub (20). The temperature sensor (345) can be implemented, for example, as a thermistor in which the resistance of the material changes according to temperature.

[0104] The drainage section (350) may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the tub (20) to the outside of the housing (10), a drain valve provided in the drain pipe to open and close the drain pipe, and a drain pump provided on the drain pipe. For example, the drain pipe may guide water supplied to the tub (20) and used for cleaning into a pump room. A drain pump is provided in the pump room, and the drain pump may pump water stored in the pump room and discharge water to the outside of the housing (10) through the drain pipe.

[0105] The washing machine (100) may include a water supply unit (360) configured to supply water to the tub (20).

[0106] The water supply unit (360) can supply water supplied from an external water source to the tub (20). For example, the water supply unit (360) may include a water pipe connected to an external water source. The water pipe may extend from the external water source to a detergent supply device.

[0107] The input interface (370) may include a power button, an operation button, a course selection dial (or course selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. The input interface (370) 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.

[0108] The output interface (380) can visually or audibly convey information related to the operation of the washing machine (300) to the user.

[0109] For example, the output interface (380) can convey information to the user regarding the washing course, the washing machine's operating time, and washing settings / rinse settings / spin settings. Information regarding the washing machine's operation can be output via a screen, an indicator, voice, etc. The output interface (380) may include, for example, a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panel, a Light Emitting Diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0110] The communication interface (390) can perform data communication with an electronic device under the control of the processor (310). The electronic device may include a server, a home appliance, a mobile device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet PC, a wearable device, etc.).

[0111] For example, the communication interface (390) may include a communication circuit capable of performing data communication between the washing machine (300) and an electronic device using at least one of the data communication methods including wired LAN, wireless LAN, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, ZigBee, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct), infrared communication (IrDA, infrared Data Association), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), NFC (Near Field Communication), Wibro (Wireless Broadband Internet), WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access), SWAP (Shared Wireless Access Protocol), WiGig (Wireless Gigabit Alliances, WiGig), and RF communication.

[0112] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation in which a washing machine updates an unbalance limit value according to one embodiment.

[0113] The processor (310) of the washing machine (300) can perform at least one of the operations of FIG. 5. When the instructions stored in the memory (320) of the washing machine (300) are executed by the processor (310) of the washing machine (300), the washing machine (300) can perform the operations of FIG. 5.

[0114] In operation 510, the washing machine (300) may rotate the motor (330) at a first rotational speed for the spin-drying process. The spin-drying process may be divided into multiple stages according to the rotational speed of the drum (30). The first rotational speed may include a rotational speed (e.g., about 100 rpm) corresponding to a low-speed rotational stage during the spin-drying process. The explanation of the spin-drying process is described in detail in FIG. 6.

[0115] According to one embodiment, while the motor (330) rotates the drum (30) at a first rotational speed, the laundry may be placed on the inner wall of the drum (30) due to an increase in centrifugal force. For example, the laundry may be attached to the inner wall of the drum (30) and rotate together with the drum (30). According to one embodiment, the driving circuit (335) may supply a driving current to the motor (330) so that the motor (330) rotates at a first rotational speed.

[0116] In operation 520, according to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can obtain an unbalanced value based on the current detected through the current sensor (341) while the motor (330) is rotating at a first rotational speed.

[0117] In the present disclosure, the unbalance value may refer to the degree of uniformity of the arrangement of laundry attached to the inner wall of the drum (30). According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) may acquire the unbalance value while rotating at a first rotational speed. For example, the larger the unbalance value, the more uneven the arrangement of laundry attached to the inner wall of the drum (30) may be.

[0118] According to one embodiment, a current sensor (341) can detect a driving current (Iabc) supplied to a motor (330). The washing machine (300) can obtain an unbalanced value based on the driving current.

[0119] According to one embodiment, while the drum (30) is rotating at a first rotational speed, the magnitude of the current supplied to the motor (330) that rotates the drum (30) may vary according to the arrangement of laundry inside. Specifically, while the rotational speed of the motor (330) is varying, the driving circuit (335) may change the driving current supplied to the motor (330) so that the rotational speed of the motor (330) follows the rotational speed command of the processor (310). For example, if the detected rotational speed of the motor (330) is less than the rotational speed command of the processor (310), the driving circuit (335) may increase the current supplied to the motor (330), and if the detected rotational speed of the motor (141) is greater than the rotational speed command of the processor (310), the driving circuit (335) may decrease the current supplied to the motor (330).

[0120] If the part where the laundry is concentrated is located on the lower side of the drum (30), more torque force is required to rotate the drum (30), so the rotational speed of the motor (330) may be reduced. On the other hand, if the part where the laundry is relatively less concentrated is located on the lower side of the drum (30), relatively less torque force is required to rotate the drum (30), so the rotational speed of the motor (330) may be increased. Therefore, the magnitude of the current supplied to the motor of the drum (30) may vary depending on the arrangement of the laundry. At this time, a large range of variation in the magnitude of the current supplied to the motor (330) may mean that the degree of imbalance of the laundry placed on the inner wall of the drum (30) is large.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can obtain an unbalance value based on the fluctuation range of the driving current detected through the current sensor (341). For example, the washing machine (300) can obtain a larger unbalance value as the fluctuation range of the driving current increases, and a smaller unbalance value as the fluctuation range of the driving current decreases. The operation of obtaining the unbalance value is described in FIG. 9.

[0122] In operation 530, according to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can identify whether the unbalance value exceeds the unbalance limit value.

[0123] The unbalance limit value may represent a reference value for controlling the distribution of laundry attached to the inner wall of the drum (30). If the laundry is unevenly distributed, the drum (30) may shake violently or cause large vibrations while rotating at high speed; therefore, to prevent this, the washing machine (300) may set an unbalance limit value. The unbalance limit value may be set during the manufacturing or initial use of the washing machine (300) and stored in the memory (320). The unbalance limit value may be determined based on the vibration value during the high-speed rotation stage. For example, if the vibration value of the washing machine (300) during the high-speed rotation stage is to be controlled to be less than or equal to a first vibration value (e.g., 3 mm), the unbalance limit value may be set to a first unbalance limit value (e.g., 70). The operation of determining the unbalance limit value based on the vibration value is described in FIG. 9.

[0124] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can control the rotational speed of the drum (30) by comparing the unbalance value obtained in operation 520 with the unbalance limit value. For example, if the unbalance value exceeds the unbalance limit value, it means that the degree of imbalance of the laundry exceeds the standard, so the rotational speed of the drum (30) can be reduced to redistribute the laundry. For example, if the unbalance value does not exceed the unbalance limit value, it means that the laundry is evenly distributed on the inner wall of the drum (30), so the washing machine (300) can increase the rotational speed of the drum (30) to proceed to the next step.

[0125] In operation 530-Y and operation 540, according to one embodiment, if the washing machine (300) is identified as having an unbalance value exceeding an unbalance limit value, the rotational speed of the motor (330) can be changed to a third rotational speed that is smaller than the first rotational speed.

[0126] In operations 530-N and 550, according to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) may rotate the motor at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed when it is identified that the unbalance value does not exceed the unbalance limit value. The second rotational speed may include a rotational speed (e.g., about 1000 rpm) corresponding to the high-speed rotational stage during the spin-drying process. For example, when the washing machine (300) is identified that the unbalance value does not exceed the unbalance limit value, the motor (330) may maintain the rotational speed corresponding to the medium-speed rotational stage for a certain period of time, and then rotate it at a rotational speed corresponding to the high-speed rotational stage (e.g., the second rotational speed).

[0127] In operation 560, according to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can obtain a vibration value of the drum (30) (hereinafter referred to as the actual vibration value) using a vibration sensor (342) while the motor (330) rotates at a second rotational speed. The vibration value of the drum (30) may include the displacement of the drum (30). The washing machine (300) can identify the displacement of the drum (30) detected using the vibration sensor (342) as the actual vibration value while the motor (330) rotates at a second rotational speed.

[0128] In operation 570, according to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can update the unbalance limit value based on the actual vibration value and the predicted vibration value of the drum (30) corresponding to the unbalance value.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can identify the predicted vibration value from the unbalance value (UB) based on a relationship (e.g., Equation 1) representing the relationship between the unbalance value and the predicted vibration value.

[0130]

[0131] (step, is the predicted vibration value, and UB is the unbalanced value.)

[0132] Mathematical Equation 1 is a mathematical equation for calculating a predicted vibration value from an unbalanced value. In this case, information regarding the values ​​of a and b may be stored in memory (320). The unbalanced value and the predicted vibration value may have a linear relationship. An explanation of the unbalanced value and the predicted vibration value is described in detail in FIG. 9.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can update the unbalance limit value based on the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value. When manufacturing the washing machine, since the motor performance (e.g., back EMF of the motor) and shaft system (e.g., friction force between the drive shaft and the bearing) differ for each washing machine, an error may occur between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value.

[0134] For example, if the washing machine (300) has a predicted vibration value greater than the actual vibration value, the washing machine (300) can update the unbalance limit value by increasing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value. For example, if the predicted vibration value has a smaller vibration value than the actual vibration value, the washing machine (300) can update the unbalance limit value by decreasing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can obtain an average value of the difference value while performing a spin cycle multiple times. The washing machine (300) can update the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

[0136]

[0137] (step, is the updated unbalance limit value, is the existing unbalanced limit value, is the actual vibration value, is the predicted vibration value, and k is a pre-set constant.)

[0138] Equation 2 is an equation for updating the unbalance limit value. A preset constant (k) may include a value for correcting the scale between the difference between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value and the unbalance limit value. The preset constant may be determined as an appropriate constant to prevent abrupt fluctuations in the actual vibration value due to abrupt changes in the unbalance limit value. For example, the preset constant may be 0.1 or greater and less than 0.5.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can obtain a value obtained by multiplying the difference between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value by a preset constant (k) (hereinafter referred to as the first value). According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can subtract the first value from the existing unbalance limit value. The washing machine (300) can identify the value obtained by subtracting the first value from the existing unbalance limit value as the updated unbalance limit value.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can identify whether a first value falls within a preset range. The preset range may be determined as an appropriate range to prevent abrupt fluctuations in the actual vibration value due to abrupt changes in the unbalance limit value. The preset range may be determined, for example, as a 1% tolerance range of the unbalance limit value. For example, if the unbalance limit value is 70, the preset range may be determined as a first range (e.g., -0.7 or greater and 0.7 or less). Specific constants and preset ranges may be set at manufacturing or initial use, or updated periodically or based on user input.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can update the unbalance limit value when the first value falls within a preset range. According to one embodiment, when the washing machine (300) performs a spin cycle multiple times, if the first value falls within a preset range, the average value of the first value can be obtained. The washing machine (300) can update the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) may update the unbalance limit value whenever a spin cycle is performed, but is not limited thereto. For example, the washing machine (300) may update the unbalance limit value whenever a spin cycle is performed a preset number of times, or it may be updated based on user input.

[0143] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the steps of a dehydration process according to one embodiment.

[0144] The washing machine (300) can perform washing, rinsing, and / or spin-drying operations by rotating the drum (30). Here, the spin-drying operation may refer to the process of the washing machine (300) rotating the drum (30) to remove water remaining on the laundry.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 6, the washing machine (300) can control the motor (330) to gradually increase the rotational speed of the drum (30) for the spin cycle. The spin cycle may be divided into multiple stages depending on the rotational speed of the drum (30) rotating during the spin cycle. For example, the spin cycle of the washing machine (300) may include a low-speed rotation stage in which the rotational speed of the drum is increased to a low-speed rotational speed (e.g., about 50 rpm or more and less than 200 rpm) and maintained for a certain period, a medium-speed rotation stage in which the rotational speed is increased to a medium-speed rotational speed (e.g., about 200 rpm or more and less than 600 rpm) and maintained for a certain period, and a high-speed rotation stage in which the rotational speed is increased to a high-speed rotational speed (e.g., about 800 rpm or more and less than 1400 rpm) and maintained for a certain period. The rotational speed for each stage is not limited to the examples described above and may be set at the time of manufacturing or initial use of the washing machine (300), or may be set or updated by the user.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can obtain an unbalanced value based on the driving current detected using a current sensor (341) while maintaining a low rotational speed (e.g., a first rotational speed). For example, the washing machine (300) can obtain an unbalanced value at a first time (e.g., from T1 to T2).

[0147] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can acquire an actual vibration value using a vibration sensor (342) while maintaining a high rotational speed (e.g., a second rotational speed). For example, the washing machine (300) can acquire an actual vibration value at a second time (e.g., from T5 to T6).

[0148] FIGS. 7a and 7b are drawings illustrating an example of laundry distribution attached to the inner wall of a washing machine drum during a low-speed rotation stage according to various embodiments.

[0149] FIG. 7a is a drawing illustrating an example of a case where laundry is uniformly distributed on the inner wall of a drum according to one embodiment.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 7a, it can be seen that the laundry is uniformly attached to the inner wall of the drum (30). In this case, since the variation in the magnitude of the current supplied to the motor (330) to rotate the drum (30) is not large, the magnitude of the unbalance value may be relatively smaller than when the laundry is unevenly attached to the inner wall of the drum (30). Additionally, since the unbalance value and the vibration value have a linear relationship, the vibration value during the high-speed rotation stage may be relatively smaller than when the laundry is unevenly attached to the inner wall of the drum (30).

[0151] FIG. 7b is a drawing illustrating an example of a case where laundry is unevenly distributed on the inner wall of a drum according to one embodiment.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 7b, it can be seen that laundry is concentrated in one area of ​​the inner wall of the drum (30). In this case, since the variation in the magnitude of the current supplied to the motor (330) to rotate the drum (30) is large, the magnitude of the unbalance value may be relatively larger than when the laundry is uniformly attached to the inner wall of the drum (30). Additionally, since the unbalance value and the vibration value have a linear relationship, the vibration value during the high-speed rotation stage may be relatively larger than when the laundry is uniformly attached to the inner wall of the drum (30).

[0153] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation in which a washing machine acquires an unbalance value during a low-speed rotation step according to one embodiment.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can filter the driving current provided to the motor (330) to obtain an unbalanced value. The washing machine (300) can detect the magnitude of the driving current provided to the motor (330) during the spin cycle using a current sensor (341). The washing machine (300) can remove unnecessary high-frequency components (e.g., noise) of the driving current. The washing machine (300) can perform high-pass filtering on the driving current to remove the DC component of the driving current. The washing machine (300) can perform full-wave rectification on the driving current to obtain the absolute value of the driving current. The absolute value of the driving current with the high-frequency and DC components removed can be represented by the graph shown in 801 of FIG. 8 (hereinafter referred to as the first graph).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) may perform low-pass filtering on a first graph to identify the fluctuation range of the driving current. The low-frequency component of the driving current in the first graph may represent the graph shown in 802 of FIG. 8 (hereinafter, the second graph).

[0156] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can obtain an unbalance value based on the filtered current (e.g., the second graph). For example, the washing machine (300) can obtain an unbalance value based on the average value of the filtered current while the motor (330) is rotating at a low speed. For example, the washing machine (300) can obtain the average value of the filtered current during a first period (e.g., from the first time (T1) to the second time (T2)). Since the average value of the filtered current is an analog value, the washing machine (300) can convert the average value of the filtered current into a digital value for processing by the processor (310). The washing machine (300) can obtain an unbalance value by converting the average value of the filtered current into a digital value.

[0157] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a graph showing the relationship between an unbalance value and a vibration value according to one embodiment.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 9, the unbalance value may have a linear relationship with the vibration value. A graph showing the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value may be obtained experimentally or through experience. For example, the washing machine (300) may perform multiple spin cycles. While performing multiple spin cycles, the washing machine (300) may obtain the unbalance value during the low-speed rotation phase and obtain the vibration value during the high-speed rotation phase.

[0159] A graph showing the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value can be obtained based on multiple unbalance values ​​obtained while the washing machine (300) performs multiple spin cycles and multiple vibration values ​​corresponding to each of the multiple unbalance values. A graph showing the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value can correspond to Equation 1.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (300) can obtain a vibration prediction value based on a graph showing the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value. For example, if the unbalance value obtained by the washing machine during the low-speed rotation stage is 70, the vibration prediction value may correspond to 3 mm. Hereinafter, a graph showing the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value obtained experimentally or through experience is referred to as a 'reference graph'. The washing machine (300) can store information regarding the graph showing the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value and information regarding Equation 1 (e.g., values ​​of a and b) in a memory (320) at the time of initial manufacturing or initial use.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the manufacturer can generate an unbalance limit value based on a graph showing the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value. For example, if the manufacturer wants to limit the vibration value of the washing machine (300) to 3 mm during the high-speed rotation stage, the manufacturer can generate an unbalance limit value of 70. The initially determined unbalance limit value can be stored in memory (320) at the time of initial manufacturing or initial use.

[0162] FIG. 10 is an example of a graph showing the relationship between an unbalance value and a vibration value according to a difference in characteristics of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0163] As described above, even for the same model of washing machine, the graph of the relationship between the unbalance value and the vibration value may differ from washing machine to washing machine depending on the characteristics of the washing machine (e.g., characteristics of the shaft system, characteristics of the motor, etc.).

[0164] For example, let us assume that the unbalance value during the low-speed rotation stage is the first value. The first graph represents the case where the actual vibration value during the high-speed rotation stage is greater than the vibration value corresponding to the reference graph (e.g., predicted vibration value). In this case, relatively louder noise or vibration may occur in the washing machine corresponding to the first graph compared to the washing machine corresponding to the reference graph. Therefore, the washing machine corresponding to the first graph can update the unbalance limit value by reducing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the actual vibration value.

[0165] The second graph represents a case where the actual vibration value is smaller than the vibration value corresponding to the reference graph. In this case, the washing machine corresponding to the second graph can reduce the rotation speed of the drum (30) to reposition the laundry even when unnecessary. Accordingly, the washing machine corresponding to the second graph can update the unbalance limit value by increasing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value.

[0166] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation to update an unbalance limit value of a washing machine corresponding to a first graph according to one embodiment.

[0167] Referring to FIG. 11, according to one embodiment, a washing machine (300) (hereinafter referred to as the first washing machine) corresponding to the first graph can reduce an unbalance limit value based on the difference between a predicted vibration value and an actual vibration value. Since the operation of reducing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between a predicted vibration value and an actual vibration value has been described in detail in FIG. 5, redundant details are omitted.

[0168] According to one embodiment, the first washing machine (300) can update the unbalance limit value within a preset range. The preset range may be determined based on the unbalance limit value set during manufacturing or initial execution. For example, the first washing machine (300) may set a preset range to allow updating the unbalance limit value within 10% of the initially set unbalance limit value. For example, if the initially set unbalance limit value is 70, the preset range may be set to 63 or higher and 77 or lower, which is 10% of 70. Meanwhile, the preset range is not limited to the examples described above, such as being set according to user input or set by a server.

[0169] Meanwhile, although FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a washing machine corresponding to the first graph, it is obvious that the same operation can be applied to a washing machine corresponding to the second graph.

[0170] FIG. 12 is a graph showing the distribution of unbalance values ​​according to a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0171] Referring to Fig. 12, the distribution of unbalance values ​​may vary depending on the characteristics of the washing machine. The unbalance limit value may be set based on the standard washing machine at the time of manufacturing.

[0172] For example, in the case of a washing machine (e.g., the first washing machine) in which the distribution of unbalance values ​​is lower than the distribution of unbalance values ​​of a reference washing machine during the low-speed rotation stage, the first washing machine can update the unbalance limit value in a direction that reduces the unbalance limit value while performing the spin cycle.

[0173] For example, in the case of a washing machine (e.g., a second washing machine) in which the distribution of unbalance values ​​is higher than the distribution of unbalance values ​​of a reference washing machine during the low-speed rotation stage, the second washing machine can update the unbalance limit value in a direction that increases the unbalance limit value while performing the spin cycle.

[0174] The technical problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0175] As described above, by comparing the predicted vibration value and reference vibration value obtained during the low-speed rotation stage of the washing machine and updating the unbalance limit value, the vibration and spin operation of the washing machine can be efficiently controlled.

[0176] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0177] A washing machine according to one embodiment as described above may include at least one processor comprising a motor configured to rotate the drum, a current sensor configured to detect a current flowing through the motor, a vibration sensor configured to detect vibration of the drum, and a memory and processing circuitry for storing instructions.

[0178] For example, when the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by at least one processor, the washing machine may rotate the motor at a first rotational speed for a spin cycle of the laundry contained in the drum, obtain an unbalance value corresponding to the degree of imbalance of the laundry based on the current detected through the current sensor while the motor is rotating at the first rotational speed, and if the unbalance value does not exceed an unbalance limit value, rotate the motor at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed, obtain a vibration value of the drum using the vibration sensor while the motor is rotating at the second rotational speed, and update the unbalance limit value based on the vibration value and the predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the unbalance value.

[0179] For example, when the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine may update the unbalance limit value by increasing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value if the predicted vibration value is greater than the vibration value, and update the unbalance limit value by decreasing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value if the predicted vibration value is less than the vibration value.

[0180] For example, when the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine may update the unbalance limit value based on the difference value based on the fact that the difference value is identified as belonging to a preset range.

[0181] For example, when the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine may identify the predicted vibration value corresponding to the unbalance value obtained by the washing machine based on a relational expression representing the relationship between the unbalance value and the predicted vibration value.

[0182] For example, when the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine may obtain an average value of the difference value while performing the spin cycle multiple times, and update the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

[0183] For example, when the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine may change the rotational speed of the motor from the first rotational speed to a third rotational speed smaller than the first rotational speed if the unbalance value is greater than the unbalance limit value, rotate the motor at the first rotational speed after the rotational speed of the motor is changed to the third rotational speed, and acquire the unbalance value while the motor is rotating at the first rotational speed and compare the unbalance value with the unbalance limit value.

[0184] A control method for a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a method of rotating a motor configured to rotate the drum at a first rotational speed for a spin-drying process of laundry contained in the drum; a method of obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to the degree of imbalance of the laundry based on a current detected through a current sensor configured to detect a current flowing through the motor while the motor is rotating at the first rotational speed; a method of rotating the motor at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed if the unbalance value does not exceed an unbalance limit value; a method of obtaining a vibration value of the drum using a vibration sensor configured to detect vibration of the drum while the motor is rotating at the second rotational speed; and a method of updating the unbalance limit value based on the vibration value and a predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the unbalance value.

[0185] For example, the method for updating the unbalance limit value may include a method for updating the unbalance limit value by increasing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value when the predicted vibration value is greater than the vibration value, and a method for updating the unbalance limit value by decreasing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value when the predicted vibration value is smaller than the vibration value.

[0186] For example, the method for updating the unbalance limit value may include a method for updating the unbalance limit value based on the difference value, based on the fact that the difference value is identified as belonging to a preset range.

[0187] For example, the method for updating the above-mentioned unbalance limit value may include a method for identifying the predicted vibration value corresponding to the unbalance value obtained by the washing machine based on a relational expression representing the relationship between the unbalance value and the predicted vibration value.

[0188] For example, the method for updating the unbalance limit value may include a method for obtaining an average value of the difference value while performing the dehydration process multiple times, and a method for updating the unbalance limit value based on the average value.

[0189] For example, if the above unbalance value is greater than the above unbalance limit value, the method may include changing the rotational speed of the motor from the first rotational speed to a third rotational speed smaller than the first rotational speed, rotating the motor at the first rotational speed after the rotational speed of the motor has been changed to the third rotational speed, and obtaining the above unbalance value while the motor is rotating at the first rotational speed and comparing the above unbalance value with the above unbalance limit value.

[0190] Although various embodiments have been described above, each embodiment is not necessarily implemented individually, and may be combined with at least one other embodiment, either wholly or partially, to be implemented together in a single product.

[0191] Meanwhile, embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules executed by a computer. A computer-readable medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, and both removable and non-removable media. Additionally, a computer-readable medium may include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include both volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented by any method or technique for storing information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media may typically include other data of modulated data signals, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, or program modules.

[0192] Additionally, computer-readable storage media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, 'non-transitory storage media' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily. For example, 'non-transitory storage media' may include a buffer in which data is stored temporarily.

[0193] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided by being included in 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 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.

[0194] It should be understood that various embodiments of the present disclosure according to the claims and the description of the specification may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0195] Such software may be stored on a non-transient computer-readable storage medium. The non-transient computer-readable storage medium stores one or more computer programs (software modules), and the one or more computer programs include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of an electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform the method of the present disclosure.

[0196] Such software may be in the form of a storage device, for example, read-only memory (ROM) regardless of whether it is erasable or rewritable; in the form of memory, for example, random access memory (RAM), memory chips, devices, or integrated circuits; or on an optically or magnetically readable medium, for example, a compact disc (CD), a digital multifunction disc (DVD), a magnetic disc, or a magnetic tape. It may be understood that the storage device and the storage medium are various embodiments of non-transient machine-readable storage suitable for storing one or more computer programs containing instructions that implement various embodiments of the present disclosure at execution. Accordingly, various embodiments provide a program containing code for implementing any one of the devices or methods of the claims of this specification, and a non-transient machine-readable storage medium storing such program.

[0197] Although the present disclosure has been illustrated and described with reference to various embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and equivalents.

Claims

1. In a washing machine including a drum, A motor configured to rotate the above drum; A current sensor configured to detect the current flowing through the motor; A vibration sensor configured to detect vibrations of the drum; and Memory comprising one or more storage media for storing instructions; and It includes at least one processor that includes a processing circuitry and is communicationly connected to the motor, the current sensor, the vibration sensor, and the memory; and When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine, For the spin-drying process of the laundry contained in the drum, the motor is rotated at a first rotational speed, and While the motor rotates at the first rotational speed, an unbalance value corresponding to the degree of imbalance of the laundry is obtained based on the current detected through the current sensor, and If the above unbalance value does not exceed the unbalance limit value, the motor is rotated at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed, and While the motor rotates at the second rotational speed, the vibration value of the drum is obtained using the vibration sensor, and A washing machine that updates the unbalance limit value based on the predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

2. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine, If the above predicted vibration value is greater than the above vibration value, the above unbalance limit value is increased based on the difference between the above predicted vibration value and the above vibration value, and the above unbalance limit value is updated, and A washing machine that, if the predicted vibration value is smaller than the vibration value, reduces the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value to update the unbalance limit value.

3. In Paragraph 2, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine, A washing machine that updates the unbalance limit value based on the difference value, based on the fact that the difference value is identified as belonging to a preset range.

4. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine, A washing machine that identifies the predicted vibration value corresponding to the unbalance value obtained by the washing machine based on a relational expression representing the relationship between the unbalance value and the predicted vibration value.

5. In Paragraph 2, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine, While performing the above dehydration process multiple times, the average value of the above difference value is obtained, and A washing machine that updates the above-mentioned unbalanced limit value based on the above-mentioned average value.

6. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the washing machine, If the above unbalance value is greater than the above unbalance limit value, the rotational speed of the motor is changed from the first rotational speed to a third rotational speed smaller than the first rotational speed, and After the rotational speed of the motor is changed to the third rotational speed, the motor is rotated at the first rotational speed, and A washing machine that obtains the unbalance value while the motor rotates at the first rotational speed and compares the unbalance value with the unbalance limit value.

7. A method for controlling a washing machine including a drum, A step of rotating a motor configured to rotate the drum at a first rotational speed for the spin-drying process of the laundry contained in the drum; A step of obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to the degree of imbalance of the laundry based on the current detected through a current sensor configured to detect the current flowing through the motor while the motor rotates at the first rotational speed; If the above unbalance value does not exceed the unbalance limit value, the step of rotating the motor at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed; A step of obtaining a vibration value of the drum using a vibration sensor configured to detect vibration of the drum while the motor rotates at the second rotational speed; and A control method comprising the step of updating the unbalance limit value based on the predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

8. In Paragraph 7, The step of updating the above unbalanced limit value is, If the predicted vibration value is greater than the vibration value, a step of updating the unbalance limit value by increasing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value; and A control method comprising the step of updating the unbalance limit value by reducing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value when the predicted vibration value is smaller than the vibration value.

9. In Paragraph 8, The step of updating the above unbalanced limit value is, A control method comprising the step of updating the unbalance limit value based on the difference value, based on the fact that the difference value is identified as belonging to a preset range.

10. In Paragraph 7, The step of updating the above unbalanced limit value is, A control method comprising the step of identifying the predicted vibration value corresponding to the unbalance value obtained by the washing machine based on a relational expression representing the relationship between the unbalance value and the predicted vibration value.

11. In Paragraph 8, The step of updating the above unbalanced limit value is, A step of obtaining the average value of the difference value while performing the above dehydration process multiple times; and A control method comprising the step of updating the unbalanced limit value based on the above average value.

12. In Paragraph 7, If the above unbalance value is greater than the above unbalance limit value, the step of changing the rotational speed of the motor from the first rotational speed to a third rotational speed smaller than the first rotational speed; A step of rotating the motor at the first rotational speed after the rotational speed of the motor is changed to the third rotational speed; and A control method further comprising the step of acquiring the unbalance value while the motor rotates at the first rotational speed and comparing the unbalance value with the unbalance limit value.

13. A non-transient computer-readable recording medium that stores instructions for the washing machine to perform an operation when executed individually or collectively by at least one processor of the washing machine including a drum, The above operation is, A step of rotating a motor configured to rotate the drum at a first rotational speed for the spin-drying process of the laundry contained in the drum; A step of obtaining an unbalance value corresponding to the degree of imbalance of the laundry based on the current detected through a current sensor configured to detect the current flowing through the motor while the motor rotates at the first rotational speed; If the above unbalance value does not exceed the unbalance limit value, the step of rotating the motor at a second rotational speed faster than the first rotational speed; A step of obtaining a vibration value of the drum using a vibration sensor configured to detect vibration of the drum while the motor rotates at the second rotational speed; and A recording medium comprising: a step of updating the unbalance limit value based on the predicted vibration value of the drum corresponding to the vibration value and the unbalance value.

14. In Paragraph 13, The step of updating the above unbalanced limit value is, If the predicted vibration value is greater than the vibration value, a step of updating the unbalance limit value by increasing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value; and A recording medium comprising: a step of updating the unbalance limit value by reducing the unbalance limit value based on the difference between the predicted vibration value and the vibration value when the predicted vibration value is smaller than the vibration value.

15. In Paragraph 14, The step of updating the above unbalanced limit value is, A control method comprising the step of updating the unbalance limit value based on the difference value, based on the fact that the difference value is identified as belonging to a preset range.

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