Washing machine and operating method of washing machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional washing machines with automatic detergent dispensing functions lack accuracy in adjusting detergent quantity based on laundry load and contamination level, leading to user inconvenience and inefficient washing processes.
Innovation Solution
A washing machine equipped with a touch screen and a detergent supplying unit that detects laundry load and contamination levels to determine the optimal detergent quantity, displaying this information visually and allowing for user interaction to adjust or add detergent as needed, while also monitoring detergent levels and providing notifications for replenishment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automatic detergent dispensing is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but detergent quantity accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit receives feedback from the load detection unit about laundry weight and from the contamination detection unit about soil level, then adjusts detergent quantity accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system ensures accurate detergent dosing while maintaining automatic operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The washing machine automatically detects laundry load and contamination level, then self-adjusts the detergent quantity without user intervention. The system serves itself by making intelligent decisions about detergent dosing based on sensor data.
2Productivity
If detergent quantity is adjusted based on load and contamination level, then washing efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Mechanical load detection is replaced with electronic sensing units that automatically detect laundry weight and contamination levels. This substitution enables precise detergent dosing through electronic control rather than mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit performs multiple functions: it manages the washing cycle, processes sensor data from load and contamination detection units, calculates optimal detergent quantity, and controls the detergent supply. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by consolidating control logic.
3Adaptability or versatility
If touch screen interface is added for detergent management, then user interaction capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The touch screen interface is merged with the existing control unit, integrating detergent management functions into the central control system. This consolidation allows the interface to serve multiple purposes: displaying washing parameters, receiving user inputs, and providing feedback about detergent status.
Solution Approach 2:
The touch screen acts as an intermediary between the user and the complex control systems. It provides a user-friendly interface that simplifies interaction with the sophisticated detergent management and washing control functions without exposing users to underlying complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A washing machine and an operating method thereof are disclosed. A washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a washing tub; a touch screen for outputting a graphical object corresponding to a washing-related function which can be performed by the washing tub; a detergent supplying unit which is formed to receive a laundry detergent in an inner space thereof and supply the received laundry detergent to the washing tub through a supply fluid path; and a control unit which detects a load and a contamination level of laundry in response to input of a washing start command and determines an input quantity of the laundry detergent received in the detergent supplying unit on the basis of the detected load and contamination level. In addition, the control unit displays a graphical object related to the determined laundry detergent input quantity on the touch screen.