EP3489406A1 - Washing and/or drying machine and method of control - Google Patents

Washing and/or drying machine and method of control Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3489406A1
EP3489406A1 EP17203409.2A EP17203409A EP3489406A1 EP 3489406 A1 EP3489406 A1 EP 3489406A1 EP 17203409 A EP17203409 A EP 17203409A EP 3489406 A1 EP3489406 A1 EP 3489406A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
sections
washing
load
drum
drying machine
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP17203409.2A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Ömür ÖCAL
Muhammet Kürsat SARIARSLAN
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Vestel Elektronik Sanayi ve Ticaret AS
Original Assignee
Vestel Elektronik Sanayi ve Ticaret AS
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Vestel Elektronik Sanayi ve Ticaret AS filed Critical Vestel Elektronik Sanayi ve Ticaret AS
Priority to EP17203409.2A priority Critical patent/EP3489406A1/en
Priority to TR2017/20937A priority patent/TR201720937A2/tr
Publication of EP3489406A1 publication Critical patent/EP3489406A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • DTEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06FLAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F37/00Details specific to washing machines covered by groups D06F21/00 - D06F25/00
    • D06F37/02Rotary receptacles, e.g. drums
    • D06F37/04Rotary receptacles, e.g. drums adapted for rotation or oscillation about a horizontal or inclined axis
    • D06F37/08Partitions
    • DTEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06FLAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F34/00Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F34/14Arrangements for detecting or measuring specific parameters
    • D06F34/18Condition of the laundry, e.g. nature or weight
    • DTEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06FLAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F34/00Details of control systems for washing machines, washer-dryers or laundry dryers
    • D06F34/28Arrangements for program selection, e.g. control panels therefor; Arrangements for indicating program parameters, e.g. the selected program or its progress
    • DTEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06FLAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F37/00Details specific to washing machines covered by groups D06F21/00 - D06F25/00
    • D06F37/02Rotary receptacles, e.g. drums
    • D06F37/12Rotary receptacles, e.g. drums adapted for rotation or oscillation about a vertical axis
    • D06F37/16Partitions

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a washing and/or drying machine and a method of control thereof.
  • Washing machines are used for washing washable items, including garments such as clothes. Typically a user can select a suitable washing cycle via an interface on a front face of the washing machine.
  • the interface usually includes a number of control knobs and/or buttons.
  • a drying machine also known as a tumble dryer, is operable to dry items such as garments placed therein. Some washing machines have both washing and drying functionality.
  • a washing and/or drying machine comprising: a weighing device for weighing a load to be placed in a drum of the machine, the drum being separable in to two or more sections by one or more partitions; a controller of the machine configured to use weight information of the load obtained from the weighing device to provide an output to a user, the output indicative of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections.
  • controller is configured to cause the output to indicate an equal proportion of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections.
  • the controller is configured to divide the weight of the load by a total number of the sections, so as to obtain a value of the quantity of the load to be placed in each section.
  • the controller is configured to cause an indication to be output to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections.
  • the drum is changeable between multiple configurations, each configuration comprising a different number of sections.
  • controller is configured to control the one or more partitions to be arranged so as to provide the two or more sections.
  • the one or more partitions is removable and replaceable in the drum by a user.
  • the one or more partitions comprises a plurality of perforations for allowing water to pass through the perforations.
  • the weighing device is located on an exterior of the washing machine.
  • the washing and/or drying machine comprises one of: a washing machine; a combined washing and drying machine; a tumble dryer.
  • a method of controlling a washing and/or drying machine by a controller comprising: obtaining, from a weighing device of the machine, weight information of a load to be placed in a drum of the machine; and providing an output to a user, the output indicative of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of two or more sections of the drum, the two or more sections being separated by one or more partitions.
  • the method comprises dividing the weight of the load by a total number of the sections, so as to obtain a value of the quantity of the load to be placed in each section.
  • the method comprises causing an indication to be output to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections, when it is determined that a load in a section of the two or more sections has reached a determined capacity of that section.
  • the method comprises causing the one or more partitions to be arranged so as to provide the two or more sections.
  • the present disclosure has applicability to clothes washing and/or drying machines.
  • Washing and /or drying machines typically comprise a rotatable drum for rotating items (e.g. garments) placed in the drum during a washing or drying cycle. Prior to or during drum rotation the items often gather together at the bottom of the drum due to gravity. Then, as the drum begins to spin more quickly (for example during a spin or a drying cycle) the centrifugal force of the rotating drum causes the bundled clothing to be pushed out against an inside surface of the drum. This uneven positioning of the washing load can lead to unbalanced or uneven weight distribution of the items within the drum. This may cause vibration of the drum as it rotates, potentially leading to wear. It may also reduce the effectiveness of a washing or drying operation.
  • items e.g. garments
  • FIG. 1 schematically shows a washing machine 102 according to an example.
  • the washing machine 102 comprises a main body portion 104 and a drum 106 which is arranged to hold one or more garments or items of a washing load to be washed and/or dried. Washing detergent and/or fabric softener may also be placed directly in to the drum 106. Alternatively washing detergent and/or fabric softener may be placed in to a tray or dispenser 112 arranged for this purpose. In this example a dispenser 112 is arranged to hold washing detergent, and a dispenser 114 is arranged to hold fabric softener.
  • a user interface 108 is provided which enables a user to select one or more washing and/or drying parameters and/or settings e.g. duration, temperature etc.
  • a display 110 is also provided which outputs information to a user of the washing machine.
  • information displayed on the display 110 may be information regarding options selected via user interface 108, and/or information regarding a washing cycle in progress such as time remaining etc.
  • the washing machine 102 also comprises a controller 130 shown schematically at 130.
  • the controller 130 comprises a memory and a processor.
  • the controller 130 is configured and arranged for controlling operations of the washing machine 102.
  • the washing machine 102 also comprises a suitable power connection shown schematically at 120, enabling the washing machine 102 to be connected to an electricity supply such as mains electricity.
  • the washing machine 102 also comprises a suitable water inlet shown schematically at 122, and a suitable water outlet shown schematically at 124.
  • the water inlet 122 and water outlet 124 may for example enable connection to a mains water supply.
  • the washing and/or drying machine 202 comprises a user interface 208 and a display 210.
  • a controller is shown schematically at 230.
  • the controller comprises a memory 232 and a processor 234.
  • a drum 206 of the machine 202 is separable in to two or more sections by one or more partition(s) 238.
  • the partition 238 may comprise one or more sections.
  • the one or more partitions 208 may comprise one or more plates.
  • the one or more partitions 238 may be formed of plastic.
  • the one or more partitions 238 may be formed of a metal.
  • the one or more partitions 238 has divided or separated the drum 206 in to four sections, namely sections 242, 244, 246 and 248.
  • Also shown schematically is weighing device or weighing scales 250.
  • the weighing device 250 is separate from the drum 206. In some examples the weighing device 250 is located on an exterior of the machine 202. For example the weighing device may be a shelf or the like positioned on an exterior of the machine 202. In some examples the weighing device 250 is located within the machine 202. In some examples the weighing device 250 is located in the drum 206 or in communication with the drum 206 of the machine 202. In some examples the machine 202 may comprise a first weighing device 250 separate from the drum 206 (and which may be positioned on an exterior of the machine) and a second weighing device located in or in communication with the drum 206 of the machine.
  • a user may place a washing or drying load comprising one or more garments or articles on to the weighing device 250.
  • the weighing device 250 determines a weight of the load (for example in kg), and communicates this information with the controller 230.
  • the controller determines a weight of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections.
  • the information of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections of the drum 206 can then be output to a user, for example on display 210, or speech output via a speaker.
  • a quantity of the load to be placed in each section is dependent upon the total weight of the load and a number of sections. In some examples a user may input a value of the number of sections, for example via user interface 208.
  • the controller 230 may automatically determine a number of sections.
  • the controller may automatically determine a number of sections by receiving input from one or more sensors.
  • the one or more sensors may comprise, for example, a light sensor, and/or a camera, and/or one or more switches configured to detect the presence or absence of one or more partitions 238.
  • a user may place a washing load of 8kg on to weighing device 250.
  • there are four sections of the drum namely sections 242, 244, 246 and 248, separated by partition 238 (and as explained the partition 238 may comprise one or more sections or pieces).
  • the controller therefore determines that a load of 2kg is to be placed in to each of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248, so as to evenly or more evenly distribute the load.
  • the controller may determine how much of the load has been placed in the drum 206 based on how much of the load has been removed from the weighing device 250. For example, and with reference to the example above with reference to Figure 2 and a washing load of 8kg, the controller may cause an initial instruction to be output to a user to start placing one or more items in to one of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248. Once it has been detected that the weight on device 250 has fallen to 6kg, the controller determines that 2kg of the load has been placed in to one of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248.
  • the controller may then cause a prompt to the user to then start putting subsequent items in to another of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248, and so on.
  • the controller 230 is configured to cause an indication to be output to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections.
  • the controller may determine how much of the load has been placed in the drum using the weighing device of the drum 206. In such an example, the controller may cause an initial instruction to be output to a user to start placing one or more items in to one of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248. Again using the above example of a washing load of 8kg and four sections of the drum 206, each time 2kg is placed in the drum (as detected by the weighing device in the drum) then the controller may cause a prompt to the user to then start putting subsequent items in to another of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248, and so on.
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view showing in more detail a drum 306 comprising a partition 338.
  • the partition 338 comprises four sections or plates 360, 362, 364 and 366.
  • the partition 338 divides or separates the drum in to four sections 342, 344, 346 and 348.
  • the partition 338 may split the drum 306 in to a different number of sections e.g, two, three, five, six, seven, eight sections etc.
  • the partition 338 comprises a plurality of perforations or holes 370, arranged to allow water and/or air to pass through the partition 338.
  • the drum 306 is changeable between multiple configurations, each configuration comprising a different number of sections.
  • the drum may be split in to a relatively small number of sections (e.g. two) so that the large item can fit. If the load comprises small items e.g. socks, then the drum may be split in to a relatively large number of sections (e.g. four, six or eight) so that the small items can be evenly distributed.
  • the machine 202 is constructed and configured to arrange the partitions so as to provide the two or more sections.
  • the one or more partitions may have a retracted or inactive state (in which they do not provide a function of partitioning the drum) and an extended or active state (in which they do provide a function of partitioning the drum).
  • the controller may cause the one or more partitions to move between their retracted and extended states. This may be in response to user input via user interface 208 e.g. a user request for a certain number of sections.
  • the one or more partitions 228 are removable and replaceable in the drum 206 by a user.
  • a user may be able to slide in or slot in the one or more partitions 228 in to corresponding location features in the drum 206.
  • a user may manually arrange the one or more partitions so as to provide a desired number of sections in the drum.
  • Figure 4 is a flow chart of a method according to an example. The flow chart is described with respect to Figure 2 . The method may be considered from a perspective of the controller 230.
  • a load (e.g. one or more items or garments to be washed and/or dried) is placed on to a weighing device 250 of a washing and/or drying machine 202.
  • the weighing device 250 weighs the load, and this information is communicated to controller 230.
  • the controller determines a weight of the load to be placed in each section of the drum 206. For example, as described above, the controller 230 may perform this determination by dividing the total weight of the load by a number of sections in the drum.
  • the controller causes an output to be provided to a user, the output indicative of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of two or more sections of the drum 206.
  • the output at S4 may comprise an indication to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections, when it is determined that a load in a section of the two or more sections has reached a capacity of that section.
  • washing and/or drying machine and method of control thereof assists with even distribution of a load within the machine. This may reduce wear on the machine caused by vibrations of the drum, and/or may improve washing and/or drying efficiency of the machine.
  • processor or processing system or circuitry referred to herein may in practice be provided by a single chip or integrated circuit or plural chips or integrated circuits, optionally provided as a chipset, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), digital signal processor (DSP), graphics processing units (GPUs), etc.
  • the chip or chips may comprise circuitry (as well as possibly firmware) for embodying at least one or more of a data processor or processors, a digital signal processor or processors, baseband circuitry and radio frequency circuitry, which are configurable so as to operate in accordance with the exemplary embodiments.
  • the exemplary embodiments may be implemented at least in part by computer software stored in (non-transitory) memory and executable by the processor, or by hardware, or by a combination of tangibly stored software and hardware (and tangibly stored firmware).
  • data storage for storing data, such as memory. This may be provided by a single device or by plural devices. Suitable devices include for example a hard disk and non-volatile semiconductor memory.
  • the invention also extends to computer programs, particularly computer programs on or in a carrier, adapted for putting the invention into practice.
  • the program may be in the form of non-transitory source code, object code, a code intermediate source and object code such as in partially compiled form, or in any other non-transitory form suitable for use in the implementation of processes according to the invention.
  • the carrier may be any entity or device capable of carrying the program.
  • the carrier may comprise a storage medium, such as a solid-state drive (SSD) or other semiconductor-based RAM; a ROM, for example a CD ROM or a semiconductor ROM; a magnetic recording medium, for example a floppy disk or hard disk; optical memory devices in general; etc.
  • SSD solid-state drive
  • ROM read-only memory
  • magnetic recording medium for example a floppy disk or hard disk
  • optical memory devices in general etc.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Control Of Washing Machine And Dryer (AREA)

Abstract

There is disclosed a washing and/or drying machine (202). The washing and/or drying machine (202) comprises a weighing device (250) for weighing a load to be placed in a drum (206) of the machine. The drum (206) is separable in to two or more sections (242, 244, 246, 248) by one or more partitions (238). A controller (230) of the machine (202) is configured to use weight information of the load obtained from the weighing device (250) to provide an output to a user. The output is indicative of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections (242, 244, 246, 248).

Description

    Technical Field
  • The present disclosure relates to a washing and/or drying machine and a method of control thereof.
  • Background
  • Washing machines are used for washing washable items, including garments such as clothes. Typically a user can select a suitable washing cycle via an interface on a front face of the washing machine. The interface usually includes a number of control knobs and/or buttons. A drying machine, also known as a tumble dryer, is operable to dry items such as garments placed therein. Some washing machines have both washing and drying functionality.
  • Summary
  • According to a first aspect disclosed herein, there is provided a washing and/or drying machine comprising: a weighing device for weighing a load to be placed in a drum of the machine, the drum being separable in to two or more sections by one or more partitions; a controller of the machine configured to use weight information of the load obtained from the weighing device to provide an output to a user, the output indicative of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections.
  • According to an example the controller is configured to cause the output to indicate an equal proportion of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections.
  • According to an example the controller is configured to divide the weight of the load by a total number of the sections, so as to obtain a value of the quantity of the load to be placed in each section.
  • According to an example, once it has been determined by the controller that a load in a section of the two or more sections has reached a determined capacity of that section, the controller is configured to cause an indication to be output to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections.
  • According to an example the drum is changeable between multiple configurations, each configuration comprising a different number of sections.
  • According to an example the controller is configured to control the one or more partitions to be arranged so as to provide the two or more sections.
  • According to an example, the one or more partitions is removable and replaceable in the drum by a user.
  • According to an example the one or more partitions comprises a plurality of perforations for allowing water to pass through the perforations.
  • According to an example the weighing device is located on an exterior of the washing machine.
  • According to an example the washing and/or drying machine comprises one of: a washing machine; a combined washing and drying machine; a tumble dryer.
  • According to a second aspect there is provided a method of controlling a washing and/or drying machine by a controller comprising: obtaining, from a weighing device of the machine, weight information of a load to be placed in a drum of the machine; and providing an output to a user, the output indicative of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of two or more sections of the drum, the two or more sections being separated by one or more partitions.
  • According to an example, the method comprises dividing the weight of the load by a total number of the sections, so as to obtain a value of the quantity of the load to be placed in each section.
  • According to an example, the method comprises causing an indication to be output to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections, when it is determined that a load in a section of the two or more sections has reached a determined capacity of that section.
  • According to an example, the method comprises causing the one or more partitions to be arranged so as to provide the two or more sections.
  • Brief Description of the Drawings
  • To assist understanding of the present disclosure and to show how embodiments may be put into effect, reference is made by way of example to the accompanying drawings in which:
    • Figure 1 shows schematically a washing machine according to an example.
    • Figure 2 shows schematically a washing and/or drying machine according to an example.
    • Figure 3 shows schematically a drum of a washing and/or drying machine according to an example.
    • Figure 4 is a flow chart of a method according to an example.
    Detailed Description
  • The present disclosure has applicability to clothes washing and/or drying machines.
  • Washing and /or drying machines typically comprise a rotatable drum for rotating items (e.g. garments) placed in the drum during a washing or drying cycle. Prior to or during drum rotation the items often gather together at the bottom of the drum due to gravity. Then, as the drum begins to spin more quickly (for example during a spin or a drying cycle) the centrifugal force of the rotating drum causes the bundled clothing to be pushed out against an inside surface of the drum. This uneven positioning of the washing load can lead to unbalanced or uneven weight distribution of the items within the drum. This may cause vibration of the drum as it rotates, potentially leading to wear. It may also reduce the effectiveness of a washing or drying operation.
  • The following description describes some examples in more detail. Whilst the description may at certain points refer to a washing machine or washer-dryer, it will be understood that the concepts described are also applicable to a standalone drying machine or tumble dryer.
  • Figure 1 schematically shows a washing machine 102 according to an example. The washing machine 102 comprises a main body portion 104 and a drum 106 which is arranged to hold one or more garments or items of a washing load to be washed and/or dried. Washing detergent and/or fabric softener may also be placed directly in to the drum 106. Alternatively washing detergent and/or fabric softener may be placed in to a tray or dispenser 112 arranged for this purpose. In this example a dispenser 112 is arranged to hold washing detergent, and a dispenser 114 is arranged to hold fabric softener. A user interface 108 is provided which enables a user to select one or more washing and/or drying parameters and/or settings e.g. duration, temperature etc. A display 110 is also provided which outputs information to a user of the washing machine. For example information displayed on the display 110 may be information regarding options selected via user interface 108, and/or information regarding a washing cycle in progress such as time remaining etc. The washing machine 102 also comprises a controller 130 shown schematically at 130. The controller 130 comprises a memory and a processor. The controller 130 is configured and arranged for controlling operations of the washing machine 102.
  • The washing machine 102 also comprises a suitable power connection shown schematically at 120, enabling the washing machine 102 to be connected to an electricity supply such as mains electricity. The washing machine 102 also comprises a suitable water inlet shown schematically at 122, and a suitable water outlet shown schematically at 124. The water inlet 122 and water outlet 124 may for example enable connection to a mains water supply.
  • Some further aspects of a washing and/or drying machine will now be described with respect to Figure 2, by way of example.
  • The washing and/or drying machine 202 comprises a user interface 208 and a display 210. A controller is shown schematically at 230. The controller comprises a memory 232 and a processor 234. A drum 206 of the machine 202 is separable in to two or more sections by one or more partition(s) 238. The partition 238 may comprise one or more sections. For example the one or more partitions 208 may comprise one or more plates. The one or more partitions 238 may be formed of plastic. Alternatively the one or more partitions 238 may be formed of a metal. In this example the one or more partitions 238 has divided or separated the drum 206 in to four sections, namely sections 242, 244, 246 and 248. Also shown schematically is weighing device or weighing scales 250. In some examples the weighing device 250 is separate from the drum 206. In some examples the weighing device 250 is located on an exterior of the machine 202. For example the weighing device may be a shelf or the like positioned on an exterior of the machine 202. In some examples the weighing device 250 is located within the machine 202. In some examples the weighing device 250 is located in the drum 206 or in communication with the drum 206 of the machine 202. In some examples the machine 202 may comprise a first weighing device 250 separate from the drum 206 (and which may be positioned on an exterior of the machine) and a second weighing device located in or in communication with the drum 206 of the machine.
  • Prior to initiating a washing cycle, a user may place a washing or drying load comprising one or more garments or articles on to the weighing device 250. The weighing device 250 determines a weight of the load (for example in kg), and communicates this information with the controller 230. The controller then determines a weight of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections. The information of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections of the drum 206 can then be output to a user, for example on display 210, or speech output via a speaker. A quantity of the load to be placed in each section is dependent upon the total weight of the load and a number of sections. In some examples a user may input a value of the number of sections, for example via user interface 208. In some examples the controller 230 may automatically determine a number of sections. For example the controller may automatically determine a number of sections by receiving input from one or more sensors. The one or more sensors may comprise, for example, a light sensor, and/or a camera, and/or one or more switches configured to detect the presence or absence of one or more partitions 238.
  • By way of example, and with reference to Figure 2, a user may place a washing load of 8kg on to weighing device 250. In this example there are four sections of the drum, namely sections 242, 244, 246 and 248, separated by partition 238 (and as explained the partition 238 may comprise one or more sections or pieces). The controller therefore determines that a load of 2kg is to be placed in to each of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248, so as to evenly or more evenly distribute the load.
  • In an example where the weighing device 250 is separate from the drum 206, the controller may determine how much of the load has been placed in the drum 206 based on how much of the load has been removed from the weighing device 250. For example, and with reference to the example above with reference to Figure 2 and a washing load of 8kg, the controller may cause an initial instruction to be output to a user to start placing one or more items in to one of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248. Once it has been detected that the weight on device 250 has fallen to 6kg, the controller determines that 2kg of the load has been placed in to one of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248. In response to this, the controller may then cause a prompt to the user to then start putting subsequent items in to another of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248, and so on. Or in other words, once it has been determined by the controller 230 that a load in a section of the two or more sections has reached a weight capacity or weight allocation of that section, the controller 230 is configured to cause an indication to be output to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections.
  • In examples where the drum 206 comprises a weighing device, then the controller may determine how much of the load has been placed in the drum using the weighing device of the drum 206. In such an example, the controller may cause an initial instruction to be output to a user to start placing one or more items in to one of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248. Again using the above example of a washing load of 8kg and four sections of the drum 206, each time 2kg is placed in the drum (as detected by the weighing device in the drum) then the controller may cause a prompt to the user to then start putting subsequent items in to another of the sections 242, 244, 246 and 248, and so on.
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view showing in more detail a drum 306 comprising a partition 338. In this example the partition 338 comprises four sections or plates 360, 362, 364 and 366. The partition 338 divides or separates the drum in to four sections 342, 344, 346 and 348. In other examples the partition 338 may split the drum 306 in to a different number of sections e.g, two, three, five, six, seven, eight sections etc. In the example of Figure 3 the partition 338 comprises a plurality of perforations or holes 370, arranged to allow water and/or air to pass through the partition 338. In some examples the drum 306 is changeable between multiple configurations, each configuration comprising a different number of sections. This enables a configuration to be chosen based upon the content of the washing or drying load. For example, if the load comprises one or more large items such as a quilt and/or a bedsheet, then the drum may be split in to a relatively small number of sections (e.g. two) so that the large item can fit. If the load comprises small items e.g. socks, then the drum may be split in to a relatively large number of sections (e.g. four, six or eight) so that the small items can be evenly distributed.
  • In some examples the machine 202 is constructed and configured to arrange the partitions so as to provide the two or more sections. For example the one or more partitions may have a retracted or inactive state (in which they do not provide a function of partitioning the drum) and an extended or active state (in which they do provide a function of partitioning the drum). In such an example the controller may cause the one or more partitions to move between their retracted and extended states. This may be in response to user input via user interface 208 e.g. a user request for a certain number of sections.
  • In some examples the one or more partitions 228 are removable and replaceable in the drum 206 by a user. For example a user may be able to slide in or slot in the one or more partitions 228 in to corresponding location features in the drum 206. In such an example a user may manually arrange the one or more partitions so as to provide a desired number of sections in the drum.
  • Figure 4 is a flow chart of a method according to an example. The flow chart is described with respect to Figure 2. The method may be considered from a perspective of the controller 230.
  • At S 1, a load (e.g. one or more items or garments to be washed and/or dried) is placed on to a weighing device 250 of a washing and/or drying machine 202.
  • At S2, the weighing device 250 weighs the load, and this information is communicated to controller 230.
  • At S3, the controller determines a weight of the load to be placed in each section of the drum 206. For example, as described above, the controller 230 may perform this determination by dividing the total weight of the load by a number of sections in the drum.
  • At S4, the controller causes an output to be provided to a user, the output indicative of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of two or more sections of the drum 206.
  • The output at S4 may comprise an indication to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections, when it is determined that a load in a section of the two or more sections has reached a capacity of that section.
  • As discussed above the described washing and/or drying machine and method of control thereof assists with even distribution of a load within the machine. This may reduce wear on the machine caused by vibrations of the drum, and/or may improve washing and/or drying efficiency of the machine.
  • It will be understood that the processor or processing system or circuitry referred to herein may in practice be provided by a single chip or integrated circuit or plural chips or integrated circuits, optionally provided as a chipset, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), digital signal processor (DSP), graphics processing units (GPUs), etc. The chip or chips may comprise circuitry (as well as possibly firmware) for embodying at least one or more of a data processor or processors, a digital signal processor or processors, baseband circuitry and radio frequency circuitry, which are configurable so as to operate in accordance with the exemplary embodiments. In this regard, the exemplary embodiments may be implemented at least in part by computer software stored in (non-transitory) memory and executable by the processor, or by hardware, or by a combination of tangibly stored software and hardware (and tangibly stored firmware).
  • Reference is made herein to data storage for storing data, such as memory. This may be provided by a single device or by plural devices. Suitable devices include for example a hard disk and non-volatile semiconductor memory.
  • Although at least some aspects of the embodiments described herein with reference to the drawings comprise computer processes performed in processing systems or processors, the invention also extends to computer programs, particularly computer programs on or in a carrier, adapted for putting the invention into practice. The program may be in the form of non-transitory source code, object code, a code intermediate source and object code such as in partially compiled form, or in any other non-transitory form suitable for use in the implementation of processes according to the invention. The carrier may be any entity or device capable of carrying the program. For example, the carrier may comprise a storage medium, such as a solid-state drive (SSD) or other semiconductor-based RAM; a ROM, for example a CD ROM or a semiconductor ROM; a magnetic recording medium, for example a floppy disk or hard disk; optical memory devices in general; etc.
  • The examples described herein are to be understood as illustrative examples of embodiments of the invention. Further embodiments and examples are envisaged. Equivalent features in different drawings may be given an equivalent reference numeral, albeit 100 series higher e.g. drum 106, 206, 306. Any feature described in relation to any one example or embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other features. In addition, any feature described in relation to any one example or embodiment may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the examples or embodiments, or any combination of any other of the examples or embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described herein may also be employed within the scope of the invention, which is defined in the claims.

Claims (14)

  1. A washing and/or drying machine comprising:
    a weighing device for weighing a load to be placed in a drum of the machine, the drum being separable in to two or more sections by one or more partitions;
    a controller of the machine configured to use weight information of the load obtained from the weighing device to provide an output to a user, the output indicative of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections.
  2. A washing and/or drying machine according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to cause the output to indicate an equal proportion of the load to be placed in each of the two or more sections.
  3. A washing and/or drying machine according to claim 1 or claim 2, the controller configured to divide the weight of the load by a total number of the sections, so as to obtain a value of the quantity of the load to be placed in each section.
  4. A washing and/or drying machine according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein once it has been determined by the controller that a load in a section of the two or more sections has reached a determined capacity of that section, the controller is configured to cause an indication to be output to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections.
  5. A washing and/or drying machine according to any of claims 1 to 4, the drum being changeable between multiple configurations, each configuration comprising a different number of sections.
  6. A washing and/or drying machine according to any of claims 1 to 5, the controller configured to control the one or more partitions to be arranged so as to provide the two or more sections.
  7. A washing and/or drying machine according to any of claims 1 to 5, the one or more partitions being removable and replaceable in the drum by a user.
  8. A washing and/or drying machine according to any of claims 1 to 7, the one or more partitions comprising a plurality of perforations for allowing water to pass through the perforations.
  9. A washing and/or drying machine according to any of claims 1 to 8, the weighing device located on an exterior of the washing machine.
  10. A washing and/or drying machine according to any of claims 1 to 9 comprising one of: a washing machine; a combined washing and drying machine; a tumble dryer.
  11. A method of controlling a washing and/or drying machine by a controller comprising:
    obtaining, from a weighing device of the machine, weight information of a load to be placed in a drum of the machine; and
    providing an output to a user, the output indicative of a quantity of the load to be placed in each of two or more sections of the drum, the two or more sections being separated by one or more partitions.
  12. A method according to claim 11, comprising dividing the weight of the load by a total number of the sections, so as to obtain a value of the quantity of the load to be placed in each section.
  13. A method according to claim 11 or claim 12, comprising causing an indication to be output to a user to place a subsequent part of the load in to another of the two or more sections, when it is determined that a load in a section of the two or more sections has reached a determined capacity of that section.
  14. A method according to any of claims 11 to 13, comprising causing the one or more partitions to be arranged so as to provide the two or more sections.
EP17203409.2A 2017-11-23 2017-11-23 Washing and/or drying machine and method of control Withdrawn EP3489406A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP17203409.2A EP3489406A1 (en) 2017-11-23 2017-11-23 Washing and/or drying machine and method of control
TR2017/20937A TR201720937A2 (en) 2017-11-23 2017-12-20

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP17203409.2A EP3489406A1 (en) 2017-11-23 2017-11-23 Washing and/or drying machine and method of control

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3489406A1 true EP3489406A1 (en) 2019-05-29

Family

ID=60452495

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP17203409.2A Withdrawn EP3489406A1 (en) 2017-11-23 2017-11-23 Washing and/or drying machine and method of control

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP3489406A1 (en)
TR (1) TR201720937A2 (en)

Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3577751A (en) * 1969-02-13 1971-05-04 Braun Inc G A Three-compartment six-door washer and extractor
GB2202646A (en) * 1987-03-18 1988-09-28 Ti Creda Mfg Control of washing machines
DE29605630U1 (en) * 1996-03-18 1996-07-25 Hanisch, Heino, 10437 Berlin Washing machine drum, divided into chambers
JP2006230956A (en) * 2005-02-28 2006-09-07 Hitachi Home & Life Solutions Inc Drum type washing machine
GB2439949A (en) * 2006-07-12 2008-01-16 Andrew Reason Ltd Washing machine drum
US20090113638A1 (en) * 2007-06-13 2009-05-07 Kim Joo Yeon Laundry storage device, clothes treating system having the same, and clothing treating method thereof
WO2013083675A2 (en) * 2011-12-07 2013-06-13 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Base for a washing machine and washing machine
CN203834210U (en) * 2014-05-06 2014-09-17 上海电机学院 Dewatering barrel capable of preventing clothes from being eccentric and applied to vertical washing machine

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3577751A (en) * 1969-02-13 1971-05-04 Braun Inc G A Three-compartment six-door washer and extractor
GB2202646A (en) * 1987-03-18 1988-09-28 Ti Creda Mfg Control of washing machines
DE29605630U1 (en) * 1996-03-18 1996-07-25 Hanisch, Heino, 10437 Berlin Washing machine drum, divided into chambers
JP2006230956A (en) * 2005-02-28 2006-09-07 Hitachi Home & Life Solutions Inc Drum type washing machine
GB2439949A (en) * 2006-07-12 2008-01-16 Andrew Reason Ltd Washing machine drum
US20090113638A1 (en) * 2007-06-13 2009-05-07 Kim Joo Yeon Laundry storage device, clothes treating system having the same, and clothing treating method thereof
WO2013083675A2 (en) * 2011-12-07 2013-06-13 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Base for a washing machine and washing machine
CN203834210U (en) * 2014-05-06 2014-09-17 上海电机学院 Dewatering barrel capable of preventing clothes from being eccentric and applied to vertical washing machine

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
TR201720937A2 (en) 2019-06-21

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US11486072B2 (en) Automatic color composition detection for laundry washing machine
US11686031B2 (en) Method of determining a load size in a laundry treating appliance
KR101435795B1 (en) Apparatus for keeping laundry and system for disposing laundry and disposal method the same
US9127388B2 (en) Method for controlling laundry treating apparatus
US11603616B2 (en) Washing machine and method of controlling the same
US9200401B2 (en) Method for controlling laundry treating apparatus
EP2811060A1 (en) Methods of determining a load size in a laundry treating appliance
JP2018510031A (en) Clothes dryer and control method thereof
CN107949671A (en) The control method of clothes treatment device
EP3489406A1 (en) Washing and/or drying machine and method of control
EP3301215B1 (en) Washing machine and method of controlling the same
CN107385773B (en) Clothes treatment device and clothes weighing method and equipment of clothes treatment device
CN1928208B (en) Dehydration controlling apparatus for washing machine and method thereof
US20190032264A1 (en) Laundry handling apparatus and control method therefor
CN109468794B (en) Method and device for obtaining water inlet time before weighing of pulsator washing machine
EP3517676A1 (en) Washing and/or drying machine
CN109267285A (en) Device for clothing processing and control method and equipment for the device for clothing processing
US11220772B2 (en) Clothing treatment device and method for controlling same
CN107447436B (en) Control method and control device of washing machine and washing machine
US9187856B2 (en) Washing machine and washing method
CN112391795B (en) Control method and device of washing machine, washing machine and storage medium
KR102404185B1 (en) Washing machine and operating method thereof
US11519118B2 (en) Washing machine and method of operation
CN112481931B (en) Multi-load and material uniformity judgment method and device for washing machine and washing machine
CN115726142A (en) Control method, device and equipment of washing program and computer storage medium

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION IS DEEMED TO BE WITHDRAWN

18D Application deemed to be withdrawn

Effective date: 20191130